My first day off in 10 days, wooooo! :D

Last night was well-spent, as I attended the local inaugural Clay Aiken fan party, organized by a group of very dedicated and generous ladies who form the core group that led us all to the actual setting up of the Singapore Clay Aiken fansite.

About 60 people turned up, ranging in age from 12 to 60. We had a great time mingling and sharing our "Clay-appreciation" experiences, and I got to meet people whom I'd previously known only through email. The food was delicious, with dishes cleverly incorporating words that applied to Clay ( "Claypot Chaiken" being once of my favourites! :D ), and the games bit was very enjoyable, with trivia ( Name 3 things Clay is allergic to; What's Track 5 on Measure Of A Man? ) and a contest to see which fan could recreate Clay's famous shirt tugs/yanks/clutches the best. Prizes included the MOAM album, as well as a little pouch containing a customized water tumbler, and a tube of skin lotion bearing the brand name "Aiken", haha!

One lady, who works in advertising, made gorgeous mounted posters which were later auctioned off, with proceeds going to the Autism Association (Singapore) (AAS). A DJ was on hand to play Clay's songs for the entire 5-hour duration of the party, and I especially love the part where we gathered together to shout "Congratulations, Clay" and "Singapore Loves Clay" into a video camera -- the recording of which will be edited and put on tape, then mailed to Raleigh with a special scrapbook of pictures, to be later forwarded to Clay's mom, probably sometime in November ( crossing fingers on that one -- his birthday is coming up, and his home will definitely be swamped with fanmail from around the world ).

Another fan, a lovely woman who has a 12-year-old autistic son, put up a terrific presentation on the Bubel-Aiken Foundation and the AAS. With the large population of young Clay fans in the audience ( primary school to college and university students ), I certainly hope they were touched and inspired enough to make a personal commitment to these causes and follow in Clay's shining example.

But my favourite part of the night was when we all sat down in a darkened room and watched Clay's many TV appearances -- available only via download from the Internet. There were the Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon, his Good Morning America performances and interview ( this one was excellent ), and yes! his stint on Jay Leno singing "Invisible", where he wowed everyone with his new slick moves and confident stage presence. Watching these clips with so many other Claymates was a great experience, and the raucous cheers and applause showed just how much love and support he has over here.

My thanks and congratulations to everyone who made this party possible!
Our next celebratory event is slated for November 30th, which is Clay's 25th birthday. Venue to be determined, attendance likely double the number. :)