OMG...what time is it?
I might be a little fangirly...you have been warned!
I'm so blessed; it's true. This afternoon, my phone rang. It was my friend Barb, from CA, whom I have not seen nor spoken to since this time last year! So that was a nice surprise in itself. She was fortunate enough to have procured front row tix just a few weeks ago, and she came to NC to take her friend Sara, who has had a very rough year healthwise, to the concert, and let her experience front row with Clay.
Unfortunately though, Sara became very ill just in the past few days, and had to be admitted to the hospital. *Sending prayers and good wishes to Sara for her health to improve as soon as possible.*
Barb offered me the opportunity to sit with her in the front row, since Sara could no longer attend. Wow....a Christmas angel! But, I didn't answer her right away because I had invited my Mom to the concert, and I really did not want her to have to sit alone in the balcony! I told Mom, and she absolutely insisted I take Barb up on her offer. I love my Mom! I think I owe her another Christmas present or something though!
Barb is a sweetheart, and one of the most generous people ever. I was honored to be asked to use her other ticket. Thank you so much Barb!!
During the orchestral part of the show, there was a sing along. I happen to notice the lady next to me had the most beautiful voice, and I told her so. I also had to apologize to her for practically being in her lap, since the seats were squeezed so tightly together! Since I was in the throes of a pre-Aiken fog, I didn't realize at the time who it was. A few minutes later, it occurred to me that she looked familiar. A few minutes later, I said "I'm sorry, I just realized who you were. Alison Lawrence, right?"
Well no wonder she had such a beautiful voice. D'oh!
She replied, "That's OK, I kind of like it when people don't recognize me!" Point taken!
So, see that picture up there where Clay is crouched down on the edge of the stage? He was talking to Alison. Who was sitting right beside me. *
guhhhh....*
Folks, that is the closest I've ever been to Clay. He's a cutie...didja know? But the most amazing thing was that I kept finding myself with
my eyes closed while he was singing! I know...I'm a doof. But the sound in a venue like this is just amazing when you are that close. It's almost like you can hear his real voice above and beyond the amplification system.
It was just heavenly to hear.
His voice sounded strained at certain times, but it didn't phase me, because he kept stretching and making the songs so beautiful. He hit all the "big" notes. He was funny...my Mom thought he was hilarious. No one knew the I-talian word of the day. When Jamie came out with the sign showing "Flagioloto" I looked over at Alison and she just shrugged. No idea!
I have no idea if I spelled that right. I couldn't even google it to find out! And I was a band geek for six years in high school!
I admit to getting a little bit misty during All is Well. How embarrassing. But, it could not be helped.
Anyway, to what everyone probably wants to know. No, I did not speak to Clay. No, I didn't try to get his attention. I'm too shy y'all!
And besides, before Clay's portion of the show even started, Alison asked me if I were one of those "screamers" and I said no.
Therefore, I was the epitome of decorum. I had no choice!
But it was still a beautiful thing, seeing Clay close up, hearing him sing not six feet away.
I do feel blessed for that, and all the rest too.
Happy Christmas all!
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