Well, in the clear light of day, I've had another look at this little rant (it wasn't about Clay, don't worry!) and on the advice of a more clearheaded meer than I, I'm deleting it. Hope you enjoyed it! Those of you who read it, I'd appreciate it if you didn't spread it around. And those of you who commented, thanks! It's pretty amazing the experiences we have in common.

So, what to write instead?

No fan club package for me yet..if my photo isn't autographed, I doubt I'll mind. I already am fortunate to own three things that are autographed by Clay -- a MOAM, a photo and a book.

My sister, not a fan, happened to run across the CD and a framed photo at a charity auction at her church over a year ago. The following day, she called to ask how I felt about "autographed stuff," and I stupidly said that I didn't care much either way. She replied, "Okay. I guess I'll just sell the autographed Clay Aiken CD and photo on eBay." Well, of course I felt a little differently then! I asked her how much she had paid -- she said it was a silent auction and she was the only person who had bid, and got them both for $40! I guess they would do a lot better now. I gave the photo to a close friend and fellow fan on the CH. I later got another one at a Claynation Chicago meeting, which was a very nice surprise.

And the book, of course, came from the freezing Chicago booksigning. I wish Clay had personalized them, but you can't have everything, and it was still a very nice experience.