We arrived at the Andy Griffith Playhouse and Museum shortly after 9:30am. The proclamation ceremony was underway somewhere else, which gave us an edge, but still here were 100 people or less waiting when we got in line. Rain clouds loomed over our heads all day and occasionally light sprinkles fell on us, but the good mews is that was about it.

Anywho, first-time celebrities and biggest names to take part in the annual event were Clint Howard (Leon), Barbara Eden (Ellen Brown – Manicurist), and Bruce Bilson (TAGS Asst. Director). We wanted to see everyone, but it was the announcement that Barbara would be there that made us decide to make the three and half hour trip.

Once we got to the entrance, we immediately noticed Bruce Bilson and Clint Howard seated. Unfortunately, soon after someone whisked Mr. Bilson from the room.

Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect from these celebrities. Would they be grumpy and short-tempered? You know, doing this whole thing out of obligation. Imagine my surprise when I saw Clint’s magnet personality in action. He talked with each person streaming by as if he knew that person all of his life.

Clint is a great conversationalist and super easy to talk to.  I didn’t know he was part of the Mayberry Family, but I do recognize the cute little kid that he was from those days after searching the web. I remember him mostly from Apollo 13. He has done a host of TV series, animations, and big screen productions over the years. I thought it was interesting to learn that he was the voice of Roo in 1977 The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.

Mayberry had one manicurist, Ellen Brown, the lovely Barbara Eden. I had all but forgotten that she was a part of American’s favorite hometown. I’m sure like most of you, I know Barbara best as the enchantress from I Dream of Jeannie.

I vividly remember wanting to live in that bottle or better still polishing it between my hands so I could ask her for a wish. Boy, that sounds like a good idea about now! Barbara Eden’s character mesmerized me. I mean, what kid isn’t with magic involved, right? Oh yeah and she’s gorgeous!

It was a wholesome, fun show for the entire family despite her controversial attire. That’s kinda funny to think about today, but in the mid-60s this sorta thing got frowned on. lol

The long wait was nearing an end. Enthusiastically, I stood on the other side of the table facing Barbara Eden. No doubt with a star gazed look in my eyes. With my hand outstretched, she took it (Oh, my Cathy!!) as I introduced myself, then DH to her.  I was wearing a t-shirt that she read aloud, “Everyone loves a Tennessee Girl,” and without missing a beat continued with, “Yes, everyone sure does!

At 84 years young, Miss Eden is ever bit as beautiful as when I first met her on my parents’ TV set in the late 60s.

All I can say is this gal’s dream finally came true!

I’m joining Les from Time Out For Mom for Tuesday Coffee Chat and Stacy Uncorked for Random Tuesday Thoughts. We met more celebrities, but at the risk of making this post any longer, I decided to break it up. So, I invite you to join me on Friday for Rubbing elbows with #Mayberry Days stars, Part 2!