Well, I think I need to at least say "hi" in this wondrous month of September! I hope Clay also feels the need to blog at least ONCE each calender month...although with all the appearances I really have not felt that need to have a blog from him!

I admit that I do have an addiction on this fan club...that of commenting to Jaymes almost every time I see her online!! What's with that? I guess it is as close to talking to Clay as I think I can get! Also, I truly feel she has opened herself to the fans and is sincerely interested in our feelings about the music and Clay!! He has now "officially" called her and David some of his BEST friends!! I'm thrilled for him!!!

One thing I have been pondering throughout this whole media blitz is Clay's proclamation to "take his life back". I had truly hoped he actually had a stronger hold on it, but along with the rest of us, this year, especially early on, has been challenging and I'm sure he has become retrospective on things he has done or said in the past. I hope he has few regrets. Clay has always seemed thoughtful in his responses and I think that has served him well. What I do wonder is about this matter of TRUST!! I think most of the fans have done an awesome job of behaving and showing Clay he CAN trust us. I feel that is one of the greatest gifts he can give us...and I never want to lose that!! I love how he shared his vacation pics...not so very personal, but like a travel jounal in which he gave us some history lessons! I want him to continue to enjoy doing that. I guess time will tell.

I have a huge desire to go to Raleigh, but not to find his home or drive past his mom's house. Only to see first hand the southern charm he talks about (midwest girl here) and know, first hand, the thrill of being in a "hometown" audience for a show!!

My thanks to those who take the time to read my comments to Clay and Jaymes. I am always fearful of stepping over that "line", but also often feel a tremendous need to "speak" and hope that I can do so in an intelligent, thoughful and sometimes humorous way. I often wish I had a piece of Jemock in me, as I just love that sense of humor and admire anyone with such a quick wit!!

Just to add here...Halloween is not far off and anyone who found a wonderful experience in collecting for UNICEF last year...the time to do it again is NOW. I have personally expanded my collection centers and have my entire family and friends getting involved!! Even though Clay is not this year's spokesperson, he would want us to continue the tradition. I have another idea for a fan supported effort that I will ponder discussing soon. It does not include UNICEF or BAF, but would be another great way to show Clay our support...Talk soon!

Denise