Seven years ago, most Clay fans had never checked out an internet fan site or posted on a message board.  Little did we know that doing so would forever change out lives.

Total strangers who shared a common interest  now are life long friends.

I am, at this moment, sitting in a small restaurant in the Outer Banks of North Carolina with two of my dearest Clay friends.  We are spending a few days together before heading to Raleigh for the Gala.  The three of us met via the internet over 5 years ago on a popular Clay fan site.  Through the years, we became close as we shared our passion for one very special young man.

We have become like a second family to each other, sharing the ups and downs of our lives.  We have been lucky enough to enjoy numerous Clay concerts and events together.  I will always remember our group of 8, enjoying dessert at Sardie’s last year and waiting anxiously together in the handshake line in Asheville two years ago.

Our story is not unique as I am sure that many of you have developed similar friendships as well.  What is your favorite memory with your second family?