But I knew the very minute, couldn't live my life without you in it...

**My Backstreet Beginnings**

So how did this crazy BSB obsession start you ask?  You have an old high school friend to thank for that one.  Jenny and I first met in 6th grade and played basketball in a local youth league together.  We became great friends and did the typical teenage things, including sleep overs.  When "Quit Playing Games" came out, she instantly fell in love with Nick Carter and became obsessed with the Backstreet Boys.  I didn't see what the big deal was and it kind of annoyed me that all she did was talk about them.

Before we started high school (summer of 1998) we decided that we needed one last hoorah with a sleep over.  Jenny wanted to show me all of her BSB videos and I agreed because I was trying to be a good guest.  As we watched more and more, I started to see what the big deal was about.  It was during the All Access video that I decided that I needed to be a part of this.  I fell in love with Brian Littrell and everything about him.  The two things that drew me to him were his humor and his voice.  I thought he was hilarious and I thought his voice was sent right from heaven.  I was totally hooked on the Backstreet Boys and began to buy everything in sight related to them....posters, books, magazines, t-shirts, photo cards, CD's, videos, and anything else you could imagine.  My parents were divorced so I had two rooms that I could cover in BSB posters.  

Upper:  Room at Mom's
Lower:  Room at Dad's

BSB CDs and Books

 I am not sure how much I spent on BSB merchandise over the years.  When I was young I mostly got it as gifts.  Really, I don't think I want to know.  I don't have all of the merchandise anymore....but that is another post.

Jenny and I became inseparable with our Backstreet Boy obsession.  We were known around school for being the "Backstreet Girls" as we also hung out with Stephanie, a huge AJ fan.   Jenny dubbed ourselves "Fricky" and "Fracky" since our favorites were Brian and Nick.  Our sleepovers were based completely around the Backstreet Boys.  We would stay up all night watching their videos, surfing BSB websites, and listening to their music. 

Jenny, Stephanie, and I at a sleepover at Mom's

Jenny and I at a sleepover at her house

Here is a video of some typical BSB sleepovers with Jenny, Jen, and Stephanie:

The funny thing is that Jenny is not really a big fan anymore that I know of.  The last time we talked about the Backstreet Boys was when Unbreakable came out and we were talking about the album.  I always message her when I am planning on new BSB adventures but I usually do not get a response back.  I am thankful that she introduced me to the Backstreet Boys and am glad that I have made new BSB friends to share the experiences with.