USTour2002

Well I am safely back in St. Louis and poor Kiki is safely at home. I think we wore the girl totally out this weekend! I will try and tell some of the events, but I am not so sure that I am very coherent now (*_*). Age and lack of sleep are not a good combination!
LA was the better of the two concerts, in my oppinion. He really did seem to be having a party and we just got to come along for the ride. He was just as gorgeous as ever, if not more so (how is that possible?)and his voice seems to improve with age. They had stadium seating so no matter where anyone sat they had to have a birds eye view of the stage. I don't even know what row we were in, not very far back, but they were great seats and we did not miss a thing! The dancing this boy does just makes your eyes spin and then those balads make you want to grab him and hug the stuffing out of him. He was playing the crowd like a finely tuned instrument and they were playing right back!!

Of course there were a bunch of red roses being tossed on stage and handed to him. After collecting his bounty, he held them for a bit and then tossed them back ito the crowd for the fans to have. There are some pretty happy gals who are going to have pressed roses "from Chayanne"! He also does the black towel that he wipes his faceon several time and then hands to some luckly chica!

At one point someone tossed a cowboy hat up on stage and he put that on his beautiful black hair and just did the number with it on.....that was way cool. He looked so cute in that hat, but then again he looks cute in anything!

Ok, remember that I mentioned a porpoise (or it could have been a dolphin, depending on your point of view)?
In Chile he was tossed a red scarf, in Argentina I think it was a white scarf. Can anyone recall where those scarfs went??

Someone threw a small stuffed Dolphin or Porpoise to him....now here's the deal....

He spent the rest of the song with that thing stuck partly down the front of his pants!!!

Needless to say there was a raft of women about to pass out! Me being one of them. He sure does know how to get to us and we are more than willing to be "got at"!!

San Diego was fun and we all had great seats, but Kiki and I were privileged to sit dead center front row!! What a view! It just takes your breath away to see him up that close and just watch his eyes. He loves what he does and there is no disquising it...his eyes tell all!

In San Diego the crowd was just not as involved as the crowd was in LA....They had fun, but just on a lower key. No tossed roses, no stuffed animals. But at one point I did get to hand him the beautiful melon colored rose bud, and that is when the "smiley squinchy face" happened. He looked right at me, gave me a hug smile, squeezed both eyes shut, which in turn curled up his gorgeous nose and just melted my heart once again.

This weekend was on a par with the trip to Chile. To finally get to meet my Kiki and Sami face to face...what a wonderful thing that was. They are the family of my heart. To get to meet Shiela (wild woman), Robbye (crazy lady), Carol (miss serene) and Judy (miss peaceful)....well there are no words to discribe how wonderful and blessed I felt.

After the San Diego concert we got to meet Karen and Cindy and Jennie....but we missed Ola. I think she was off schmoozing with other fans and I had to run and find out what Sami (Kiki's daughter) thought of the concert. It was great fun putting faces to all the people that post. All I can say is that Miami is going to be just so far over the top that we all may never come back to reality again....and that may not be a bad thing ;-).

Abrazos a todos,
Jeanne

This experience was a total blast! Getting to meet Carol, Jeanne, Judy, Robbye, and Shiela was more than lovely. Absolutely beautiful, inside and out, each and every one. Ready to laugh, have fun, tell the best jokes, and give the warmest hugs! Sami and I love all of you to bits and pieces.

The concert in Los Angeles was nothing less than MAGIC! It seemed that the entire crowd was on their feet for the whole performance. It was electric! We danced, sang along, laughed (he's very charming and funny), we screamed (I will never look at blue-gray marine animals, white ruffled-front shirts, belly buttons, or straw cowboy hats in quite the same way), and generally had great F.U.N. He has that super special way of making a HUGE bunch of people feel intimately involved. He simplemente "tore the house down!" He looks fabulous (muy, muy, muy guapo). His dancing was breathtaking (some beautiful, mezmerizingly sensual new moves - be still my heart!). And his voice..............his voice..............his voice! There are no words to describe it properly. If only it could be bottled and applied to the pulse points like the finest perfume - Dios mio, the fragrance it would have! I'm still not sure how he was able to improve on perfection, but he surely did.

To the Lady with the ponytail and dark rimmed glasses three rows in front of us: Thanks for being so charmingly uninhibited and getting most of the folks in your row to salsa sideways.

San Diego was wonderful. We got to hear "Complemente Enamorados" instead of "Tiempo de Vals." Chayanne was totally fantastic once again. No doubt about it. The crowd wasn't as into the party as in L.A., but there were a few fans worth mentioning. To the young ladies sitting directly behind me: Your vocal enthusiasm has altered hearing ability in my left ear forever. It's okay! How could you possibly ever have helped yourselves?! To little Nicole: Your enthusiasm so touched my heart. The smile on your face after Chayanne touched your hand was precious and unforgettable. No one ever waved the flag of Puerto Rico with more love and admiration for it's "favorite son" than you.

And, last but not least, a BIG thanks to my daughter, Sami! Sweetie Bug, you were fantastic throughout the whole experience. It wouldn't have been nearly as cool without you. Mommy loves you lots and lots.

To all my fellow Chaynuts who are going to all the other concerts: HAVE NO DOUBTS. YOU ARE IN FOR THE TOTALLY BEST CHAYANNE STUFF EVER! Have a wonderful time and be safe! Post all the spicy details as soon as you can, remember to breathe and blink occasionally, and be prepared to have a great big smile plastered all over your face for weeks afterward!

Love you all, Kiki :)

Dear Chayfriends,
I finally made it home....spent an extra day in Minneapolis with my hubby and two of my daughters. As I'm sitting here reading your posts, I'm flooded with the most wonderful memories, still so fresh in my mind!! Mere words really can't express how awesome it was to see our beautiful Chayguy in concert, but also to meet Robbye, Judy, Kiki(and Sami), and Jeanne and to see Shiela again!!! I say "ditto" to what you gals have all said....I think just about everything has been covered!
I agree with all of you that Chayanne gave the most fantastic concerts ever! It was such a thrill to see him so close up and live on stage....pictures really don't do him justice. He looked, sounded, and danced better than ever!!!! Those images will be imprinted on my mind forever...good thing as I couldn't take my eyes off of him long enough to get pictures! lol

I just want to say thankyou also to all of you sweet gals....you all hold a special place in my heart! I guess I have a reputation for being the quiet, calm one, but believe me, my insides were churning with excitement plenty, especially right before Chay came out to do his thing...and Robbye can attest to me screaming my head off every time he gave us those extra little thrills (she has a pretty good set of lungs too)!! And Jeanne, if you really want to see me come unglued, just put me up close and personal with the man...something to think about for the future :)!! Thanks to Judy and Shiela for so generously sharing their homes with us! We had such a blast and wonderful meals too (excellent cooks)! Kiki and Jeanne, it was wonderful to meet you both...so fun to be with and helping to make dreams come true!! I can't wait to see you all again in Miami!!! That's the only thought right now that keeps me going....you never want it to end!! Looking forward to reuniting with my other special Chay amigas there also and meeting some new ones!! And just to see Chay in that cowboy hat again will be more than worth it...he is just too much!!! Okay, enough already!!!!!

Muchos besos y abrazos,
Carol

Houston, July 3

Dallas, July 4

WOW, excellent as usual. Of the 2 concerts Dallas was much better. Houston has the worst concert goers of anywhere I have ever been, and they dragged down the Shows. People around me were whinning and complaining to the ushers and security because People were standing up and Dancing and Singing. Houston get over it. Enough of that. But hey, It was a great concert.
Dallas had a wonderful crowd and it really showed in the band, dancers and most importantly Chayanne. :)

Here are a couple quotes for the Dallas Morning News article titles "Ballads and the Brawn"

"The Puerto Rican star clearly understands the value of putting on a show ad of giving a paying audience all the energy his sculpted physique can muster."

"Chayanne, like all Latin-pop veterans, relies on those big love songs to rope in his most loyal constituency, the women (and Danny). But to his credit, he's not a breathy,overt-the-top balladeer ala Enrique Iglesias or a wimpy,drowning-in-string Singer like Christian Castro" (This was my favorite quote).

"Plus he seemed commited to the song, not the spot light."

Finally,...
"Chayanne gave his fans what they paid for. Now thats a novel Concept".

I will make sure whoever get the article if they don't alreay have it to post.

All of you in Miami are going to love Barbara, Dee and Jeanne They are headed that way Next.

We met several fans who we found out that they have visited the web sites but had no Idea who we were. That was neat.

A few special things happened but you will have to wait for their stories because I don't want to mess it up.

Hanging out with everyone in Houston and Dallas was great.

I'm tired. I have only had 6 hours sleep since I left San Antonio Wed. morning. I still have to do a bunch of work.

Danny

Where to start? I'll probably leave something out because my brain is fried.
Carole got into Houston on Tuesday, and came to the office to get me so I could play hooky, and we could play catch-up. I have no idea what hit me Wednesday morning, but it was not fun. I had a fever, and was fairly well convinced that I was going to have to send Carole and Bryan to the concert without me. But, I made an amazing recovery after a little more than three hours sleep and some ibuprofen, and then the rush was on. Carole had been holding down the fort and handling all the phone calls and arrangements while I was down for the count, and we all managed to make it to the hotel to pick up the tickets and then to Mi Luna for the pre-concert gathering. It was great to meet everyone. Dee is a hoot, and Barb is indeed a 'pistol', as has been mentioned. Amanda and Erica were so cute. I hadn't seen Danny in a few months, and I was glad he could make it. Bryan, my hubby, was a little overwhelmed, but he kept up.

After some great food (and a margarita) we formed a caravan over to Reliant Park, also known as the Astrodome complex. I was frankly a little confused as to the reason for the choice of this venue. I had never seen a concert in this hall, and the use I'm most familiar with is the horse and steer sales during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. But, what do I know? They have concerts there.

Well, now I do know better. The acoustics were awful. Bryan (who runs the sound equipment at church) noticed some feedback during Fiesta in America (Carole and Danny and I couldn't tell). As Carole mentioned, we were in the first row of the second section back, so we didn't have so much trouble with being told to sit down. And, in fact, during Ay Mama, when Chay removes the tiny skirts of the two leggy, gorgeous dancers to reveal the little bikini bottoms, Bryan even said "Now THAT'S something to stand up for!" and stood up to clap with us! LOL! I forgot to tell him there would be entertainment for him, too.

One of the best parts was when Chayanne sang a cappella - no instruments. The band came in later in the song, but I wished they would have just let him keep on. It was beautiful. I was mesmerised, every note perfect and sweet, I had to remind myself to breathe. Now don't get me wrong, I love the dance songs. I love the dancing, and frankly, those fast songs are our best opportunity to see the fabled abs. But I'd really like to see an acoustic concert, the man, his voice, and maybe a guitar and some hand drums. Bliss.
My two favorite songs - Candela and Salome.
As I mentioned, the dancers are gorgeous. I did think of Nancy a bit, and missed seeing someone familiar up there, but these new girls are pros, and they compliment him well. I'm sorry, Sammi, but I like the red t-shirt ;-) and I don't mind him looking like a MAN! I even like the longer hair and the whole new look. He did sing a snippet of Tiempo de Vals, and pretended to embrace the whole audience to dance with us. He talked a bit, and of course I didn't understand, but it appeared that he was discussing with the audience which of his older songs he should sing, and of course they screamed at the mention of every one he said. Tiempo was one of those, and he also sang only part of another song, but I don't remember which one. Because of the tight security, there was very little thrown on the stage in Houston, in fact there may have been nothing, someone else may remember better than I do. He both opened and closed with Boom Boom. His entry was very dramatic, his dark silhouette on the net curtain surrounded by the spotlight.

I'll have to do Dallas later. It's time to rest my fuzzy head.

My first real taste of Chayanne just happened to be the Houston concert my sister brought me to when she won 2nd ROW tickets via the internet. I didn't realize how lucky I was!

As a newly converted (now rabid & drooling) Chayanne fan, I discovered the following:

1. If you are in the 2nd row, and no one else around you for miles is standing up enjoying his concert and dancing their backside off but YOU, then Chayanne will reward you with winks, smiles, tell you he loves you, and prove to everyone else sitting down they should have been a little less worried about keeping up their image and more about getting into the groove!

2. It doesn't matter if you speak a lick of Spanish or not (I don't!), when Chayanne starts talking and singing, what he is saying is from his heart and is understandable in ANY language!

3. Chayanne has to be one of the only musicians out there who can put on this kind of rockin' show, dancing and singing, and truly have it written all over his beautiful face just how much fun he is having!

Okay, on to the actual review of the concert...I can't remember the last time I was that close to the stage or when I had that much fun at a concert so a big thanks to chayfans.org, and islachayanne.org for having an internet contest! My sister, Amanda from San Diego, was lucky enough to win tix, and I was lucky enough to be along for the ride!

With Chayanne's energy and that smile, I don't see how any person in that whole concert hall actually remained seated. Chayanne opened and closed with "Boom, Boom!" (don't have to be Spanish-speaking to sing that one!) and he never slowed down from beginning to end. The first 30 minutes were unstoppable and even when I tried to calm down (breathe!) or stop dancing, I couldn't.

Since I only knew Chayanne, up to this point, thru my sister, Amanda, I was familiar with only the most popular of his songs because we live a couple of hours apart, she, in San Diego and I, in Los Angeles. However, on the way to the concert in Houston, she was kind enough to give me a crash course in Chayanne 101 (we were on vacation in Tejas visiting our mom who lives a couple of hours from Houston, when my sis won the tix) so on our 2-hour journey to the concert, I studied and passed my first Chayanne tutorial!

Let me just say that it certainly came in handy! I couldn't sing every word to every one of his songs like my sister can but I sure could move to the beat, and who needs to know how to say anything but "Boom, Boom!", "Ay mama!", and "Fiesta in America" anyway?

I noticed (how could you not?) at least 4 different "costume" changes, from all black & leathery, to a sweaty read shirt and GREAT jeans, to a long-sleeved, white, ruffly tux shirt and he looked wonderful in all of it. After the concert, I pronounced him "DEVASTATING!" and that is just what he is...from his awesome dance moves, to his gorgeous smile that spreads across his face and lights him up!

As Carole mentioned in her post, my sister and I are the ones with the poster board in the 2nd row, telling Chayanne how much we love him and that we were at his Houston concert all the way from San Diego. If anyone is attending his concert, I highly recommend bringing one with your own personal message on it. He not only noticed us and blew kisses and told us he loved us right back, but when he did an impromptu (?) filming of the audience after taking the camera away from the on-stage cameraman, he not only noticed us but zoomed in on us, and my sister and I along with our sign, were up on the BIG SCREEN for all the world to see - very exciting!

On one of his beautiful slow love songs, even I could tell how much passion he has, and what the song was about, with his powerful hands, and emotions, and again, I can hardly speak a word of Spanish!

Before I went to this concert, I could not understand what all the hype was about...yeah, he's good-looking (understatement), yeah, I can move to his songs (didn't sit down for two hours!) but it's really more than that and now I GET IT! Chayanne connects with his fans in a way few artists can or ever do! He not only personalizes each look, touch, blown kiss, or gesture but it's written all over his face that he would literally hug each and every one of us, if there were enough of him to go around (and enough time...oh yeah, and if each one of us would actually on our honor, give him back...hahahahaha!). In fact, this was proven time and again, as he perilously leaned over to his audience to shake hands, touch fingertips, and kiss hands - our accomplice Barb actually got one of these - ENVY!

But seriously, I've been to about a bazillion concerts, from Sting, to George Michael, to George Strait, to Bon Jovi (whoops, just dated myself!) to jazz, to classical (I play in a symphony!) and I don't think I have ever seen a musician relate to his audience and touch them so deeply as Chay does his enamored throngs. You can just tell he is laughing and having the best time up there and that he truly appreciates his fans. Now I know why my sister and I were at the concert sitting by Dee and Barb, two 40 - 50-year-young white ladies who speak as little spanish as I do and who could have been our mama AND traveled all the way from North Carolina and Florida, respectively! Chayanne has a magical effect on those who stumble across him like I did - he reaches out to you, ensnares you, then dares you to walk away - could you ever?

Toward the end of the concert, Chayanne darn near encited a riot since there were two security guards holding back what appeared to be about 200 screaming fans, and then he did the unthinkable...with his hand he gestured for them to come on up! My sister watched in disbelief, looking over our shoulder, since we figured we (and the first 10 rows)were about to be crushed by a mob! (never quite happened!)

Dee, one of our partners in crime, did attempt to get the cowboy hat she bought for Chayanne onto his head by throwing it up there during "Fiesta in America" when his dancers were dressed up as Vegas dancers, cowboys, and other wild American styles. In fact, one of the dancers danced with it, then tried to place it on Chayanne's head. However, he was caught off-guard and wasn't going for it. But it was very exciting to see her hat play a part in the show!

Well, after seeing his fun show, complete with wonderful & sexy dancers, great choreography, thumping music and mass sex appeal, I'm hooked on Chay! It's amazing that my sister and I somehow managed to convince ourselves we had to do the "right" thing and stay at my mom's for the 4th of July, rather than go on to Dallas with Chayanne fans Carole, Dee, Barb, Danny, Lissa & hubby, Brian! Trust me ya'll, we almost got in BIG trouble!

I must say, however, if we would have gotten into trouble over Chayanne, it would have been worth it! We had the best time! And we got to meet (and make, in my case!) some great new friends... A big thanks to Lissa & Carole for making us feel right at home!

So until next time...

I am Simplamente yours (and Chayanne's!)

Erika

Houston: First, it was my great joy to see again and be able to spend time with La Isla's webmaster (great cobweb) and good friend, Lissa. It had been some time since we had face time instead of internet or telephone, and it was wonderful. Unfortunately, she spent most of the afternoon of the concert under the weather. Anyway, it was kind of touch and go if she would be able to make the concert that night or the trip to Dallas the next day. After several hours of sleep, she did feel better, and off we went. We met the others at a restaurant called Mi Luna, which specializes in Spanish Tapas, and they were delicious. Our happy group included contest winners Dee and Amanda, Danny, Barbara, Lissa, Lissa's husband Bryan, Amanda's sister, Erica, and me. I had met Danny before in Monterrey in 2000, and it was great to see him again. It was also fantastic to meet everyone else. Dee and Barbara had on their Chayanne tees and were more than ready for the concert. Amanda and Erica were a fun addition, with Amanda sharing the obstacles she has being a Chayanne fan.

Our tickets were not terrific, as we were in the 12th or 13th row - the second section back on the left side. The audience was more responsive where we were than what Danny experienced, but no one tried to sit us down. Because we were directly behind an aisle, there was a fairly constant stream of people in front of us trying to take pictures.

The concert itself was great! He is singing and dancing better than ever. You've already read the playlist in the cafe, and there wasn't much difference. And I can't tell you which song was better, because I love them all. Salome always gets everyone excited, and I went home singing Boom Boom because he closed with it. In fact, I still have that spinning around my head.

I do hope Erika posts. She was a "sort of" fan before. She and Amanda sat in the 2nd row and danced their way through the concert. Erika's comment after the show was, "Devastating!" After the concert, she was higher than a kite with concert excitement and drenched in dance sweat.

Coming from as far as I had (Illinois), it would have been nice to have had a better seat. However, Chayanne sure did his part to make it a memorable experience! What an entertainer!

Carole's Dallas Pictures

Dallas was the best!
Lissa, Bryan and I met Jeanne and Bob for dinner before the show. Contest winners Danny and Barbara were off picking up their tickets and were not able to be with us. :( Bryan and Bob played their roles of patient and understanding husbands perfectly. I hadn't seen Jeanne since she had made a quick trip to my house for a weekend of videos, pics, and fun a long time ago.

Thanks to Karen for arranging the pre-sale of tickets. Our row D tickets turned out to be 2nd row. Go figure... The venue was new, beautiful, and just the right size. Also, it was stadium seating and acoustically better than Houston. We were pretty much all sitting together, and that was fun, too. I met Connie, who was sitting next to me, and who has been a Chayanne fan since Los Chicos. It was neat to talk to her. She and her husband, Tony, are both fans. Also, it was nice to meet Stephanie and her Mom, Olga, who were sitting right behind me. Stephanie was wearing a really great black shirt with "Chayanne" across the front in glittery letters.

The concert is so much better when you are close enough to see the sparkle in his eyes and the expressions on his face as he performs. The energy just reaches out and grabs you. I've seen many performers live, but never one who puts the whole package together as he does - singing, dancing, music - not to mention the sincerity that shines through all of it. And he really seems to enjoy what he's doing.

I've seen it on tape, but had never before seen anyone rush the stage. Near the end of the concert a fan escaped the security, stormed the stage, (no, it wasn't Danny) grabbed Chayanne, and held on for dear life. He hugged her back and kept right on singing. He waved security away for awhile, and then after a fairly long time, they pried her loose. He just kept on singing. Shortly after that, when he had moved to the raised part in the back of the stage, another fan "tackled" him. He finished his song, took her hand and led her off stage. He handled both incidents without a pause and with total class and respect for the girls.
Afterwards a security guy told us that they had slipped through the end of a barrier while the guard in charge was dealing with someone else.

Walking to the car after the show, we could see in the distance the finale of the 6 Flags fireworks show. A perfect finish.

The bar at the Mariott was closed, and we all ended up at IHOP. Not exactly what we planned, but it gave us a place to share and laugh.

Dallas rocked! And Chayanne rocked Dallas!

Bob and I are safely back on home ground and we are soooo pooped, but also so very glad that we made the trip. Word of advice....if you are ever going to drive about 1400 miles in a Miata (top down most of the time) make sure that you have more than four hours sleep on any given night!!
Carole and Danny have described things so wonderfully, but I will attempt to add my 2 cents worth....and will probably be long winded as usual, so please be patient with me.

THE DALLAS CONCERT: It was so great that I really want to do it again. (So Miami be fore warned.) The venue was relatively small so it really did seem more intimate than any of the other concerts that I have been to. The crowd responded with passion and enthusiasm, and Chayanne was in his glory as his heart shown through his beautiful eyes. My husband commented on how Chayanne's eyes were so expressive and sincere........I knew I married that man for a reason, he is sooo smart. Chayanne's performance was outstanding, as usual, and once again he seemed to be having a party and invited us all along for the fun. Just watching him dance and interact with the crowd is so soul stirring, but I did manage to maintain my cool. Until I clapped so hard that I broke a blood vessel in my ring finger and it is all wierd colored now :-).
Barb got to hand him a rose and he smiled so sweetly at her. Then Dee handed him a teddy bear and he tried like the dickens to put it in the waist of his pants but it wouldn't stay (stupid bear), so Chayanne took a great deal of care in sitting it center front stage so everyone could see it. And it stayed there through out the entire concert! Way to go Dee! And I have a picture for you too.
He did "Y Tu Te Vas" without his cheat sheet this time, but I thought his using the sheet was just way too adorable. But I don't care if he signed the song....I would love it.
The best part of the evening for me was when he sang part of a song that he has not done on this tour so far (or did he do it in Houston?).......he sang part of "Tiempo de Vals" and did that wonderful sweet smile as he "danced with the crowd" and held us in his arms. You get the feeling that he would love to just hold each and every fan in his arms to thank them for loving him. As if we could do otherwise. Another really cute move, he is wearing this totally cool white shirt with ruffles on the front....and he stood dead front of the stage and took his fingers and ran them through the ruffles and did that great smile again. As if to indicate, "Wouldn't you love to do this"?
Carole mentioned the first girl who got onstage and hugged him. Well he gave her a kiss and she kissed him back and shortly after she left the stage, while he was singing, he turned toward the side of the stage and held his arms up in a hugging position and kept looking for his "hugger"...how cute was that?!?!?
Just to capsule the whole thing......IT WAS OUTSTANDING!! And I can hardly wait for Bob to come out of his coma to post his feelings on the whole thing. One thing I will say about him....on the way back we were listening to CD's, Chayanne, Marc Antony etc. While Marc's cd was playing Bob said that he thought he had a good voice, but that he was ONLY a singer where Chayanne was......CHAYANNE!! "Chayanne, the WHOLE package"! Did I pick a good one or what? I sure did raise this boy right (*_*).

BONUS: The huge bonus was seeing Carole again (thanks for the wonderful hug), meeting Lissa (that would be Lissa of the gorgeous hair and beautiful skin that a baby would be jealous of)and her cutie hubby Bryan, with his adorable accent. And getting to finally meet Barb and Dee....now that I know the facial expressions I can really understand better the things that they say on the boards. Dee, you are just way too funny girl, and not a shy bone in your body, I envy you. I will let Bob give his impressions of these wonderful people, but he did say that Barb was a pistol!!! And she is too!

DOUBLE BONUS: Meeting my Danny boy face to face. He has always had a really special place in my heart and I just love him to pieces, but he has outdone himself this time. When I asked about tickets for the Dallas concert Danny offered to sell me his ticket and then asked if I would like to sit with him in the seats that he has won. Bingo....Bob and I were on our way to Dallas. After the concert we were all standing around talking and thinking of were to go and hang out. I told Danny to remind me when we got to the restaurant to write him a check for the ticket. Danny said no, he didn't want money for his ticket and said consider it a "Happy Anniversary for you and Bob". Now I had promised Miamah and Carole that I would not cry (or do the potty thing) and I did so great through out all of the concerts...but Danny did me in! I cried. That was just the sweetest thing anyone could have done and I just want you all to know what a sweetheart Danny is.
Danny you are just the coolest guy and I am so very glad that you consider me among your friends....what a blessed year I have had and you just topped it off so sweetly. I love you angel boy.....not to mention we had a riot!

Okay, I warned you that this would be long winded...so don't pass out yet. I really do appeciate Danny, Carole, Lissa, Bryan, Dee and Barb for letting Bob and I tag along (Bob kept trying to fall asleep on them and they were gracious enough not to just sit and wait to see how long it would take him to fall out of the chair at the Marriot)...we really did have a blast and it was the best anniversary we could have had. Thanks so much you guys for letting us play. Love you guys and am looking forward to seeing a bunch of you again in Miami and getting to meet others unknown so far.

Mucho abrazos y besos,
Jeanne

I know all about Chayanne, the words to all his songs, the names of his children, the country of his origin and just about anything else anyone would want to know. Since I am not allowed to sing at home I have started to whistle his songs without thinking about it. I have learned all these thing from "La Reina de los Besos", my lovely and charming wife. (Who I haven't kissed since she came back from Chile...Thanks Chayanne.) But I had never been to one of his concerts. I had heard about them. Many times. Then for our anniversary Jeanne invited me to the concert in Dallas....and I had the pleasure of seeing someone doing something very well that he obviously loved doing. Many years ago I went to one of the first road performances of "Evita". The lady playing the lead was on the stage continously, even doing costume changes behind a screen. I had never seen anyone who worked that hard entertaining. Until Chayanne. He worked very hard and enjoyed every minute of it. He was able to communicate the joy he had in entertaining his fans, and the fans in Dallas loved him. I now appreciate how my wife and all of you feel about him. I don't always understand it, but I do appreciate it! Maybe it is the depth of it that I don't understand, but it makes more sense to me now.
I really enjoyed meeting some of the people that I have heard about. Carole, Lissa, Dee, Barb and Danny are just as nuts about Chayanne as my wife and just as much fun. Bryan was a rock of tranquility in a sea of craziness. And I enjoyed myself throughly.

I really do want to thank Danny for giving me the opportunity to attend. Going to another concert would be a pleasure....if I am ever asked again.

Thank you all again for allowing me to hang out and be a part of your deal.........have fun in Miami. Keep and eye on Jeanne and don't let her run off with Chayanne.

Bob

Hola Chaysisters and my sweet Danny Boy....Well Dee and I are home and happy in this sweet exhaustion....
It's very hard to explain the emotions that Chayanne evokes in you when you see him live and up close...He is the most beautiful man....When you are close enough to make eye contact with him it takes your breath away....In Houston I was fortunate enough to hold his hand. He squeezed my hand and looked right into my eyes and smiled that beautiful heart warming smile....When his hand held mine it felt like electricity went through my whole body. Even though it was only a brief moment it will be with me for a life time...Being touched by Chayanne even briefly is an experience that will touch you to the core of you heart.
Dee and I went to his hotel wed. morning to get the tickets that Dee won and he came strolling in and I almost fainted right then. He was dressed in his favorite clothes when not working. He had on baggy pants and of course his ball cap. When the rushed him to the elevator I was right behind them and I made up my mind I was going to get a closer look and speak to him if I had to break my neck getting there. I pushed Javier (his personal assistant...I think) and stuck my head in the elevator. He was in the corner and I said hello to him. He smiled and waved at me...Then the elevator closed and I was standing there with my heart pounding so hard I could barely move...My feet felt like they were nailed to the floor.... I got so excited when I saw him I forgot to grab Dee and drag her with me...But when you are that close to him, he is the only thing you think of....I'm sure Dee will forgive me...

He was absolute perfection....His performance was flawless and heart stopping. The crowd in Houston was not very enthuastic...How they sat in their seats with him on that stage is beyond me. Security kept making us sit down. I told them I came almost a thousand miles to see him and if they wanted me to sit down they would have to sit me down. Needless to say they didn't bother me too much after that. I did get plenty of pictures, 6 rolls.....

As wonderful and awsome as he is, it was still a thrill to get to meet Danny, Carole, Lissa, and her husband Brian. They are absolutely wonderful....Brian is a good spotr, he has to be to put up with all the Chayanne talk buzzing around him....Lissa is a sweet and quiet lady, Very intelegent and an awsome webmistress.Danny is an absolute nut. He had me laughing constantly. He is so sweet and I enjoyed his wit.Carol is awsome, I enjoyed her so much, she is very knowledgeable when it comes to Chayanne, I could listen to her talk about him forever. Amanda and her sister Erica,(Ihope that is right, if not please forgive me) had dinner with us before the concert and they were a hoot. Lissa, Carol, Carole and Susie have worked very hard to make Miami a reality. They deserve a the best for their efforts.If I have left anyone out please forgive me, my brain is frozen in a Chayanne mode right now..heheheheh.....

Dallas was awsome. The crowd was awsome. They rushed the stage a couple times and you could tell by looking at Chayanne's face and watching his beautiful eyes flash that he loved it. He interacted with his fans and you could tell he was enjoying what he does. Security let us hand him flowers and the let us touch him without any problems at all. I got to hand him a yellow rose and touch his hand again. He couldn't get my whole hand because I was holding the rose, but he squeezed my fingers and smiled....Dee handed hin a cute little white teddy bear that salutes and had red, white, and blue colors for the Fourth of July...He tried to put it in his pants but it was a little to big, so he set it on the stage front and center and that is where it stayed for the rest of the show....This week has been like a beautiful dream, anw I am in no hurry to wake up....The only thing that could of been better was being able to go to a concert EVERY night....Greedy huh...We also got to meet Stephanie and her mother. It was her mother's birthday so she treated her to a Chayanne concert for her birthday.Is that the ultimate gift or what...Her mother is from Columbia but had never saw Chayanne in concert. She was estatic...Stephanie is a really sweet young lady...If my tired brain can think of anything else will post later....I will have my pictures today as soon as I can get myself in gear and go pick them up...

See all of you wonderful ladies in Miami...I know this is going to be absolutely awsome.....Hugs and Kisses to all of you my wonderful Chaysisters. (and brothers) Can't leave out my Danny Boy....
Besitos,
Barbara

Hola all!! Since I finally pried the computer out of Barb's hands and she isn't dragging me all over town to get things done before Miami, I'm gonna try to get my Chay Dream up on the boards. LOL

Wow, where to start now. It all started in Houston getting off that plane. We rented a car and you haven't seen anything so funny as two old women who can't read a map trying to find their hotel room.lol When we finally got settled in, we decided to go to the arena to see what it was like and where it was exactly located. Then we decided to venture to the hotel where he was staying at , which of course meant getting back onto the highway which was a venture. It was totally hilareous watching Barb go into a panic everytime I made a wrong turn. lol When we finally reached the hotel, we got the honors of watching the hunk walk through the door and of course, had his people all around him and dumb us, didn't even have our camera's on. Had them with us though! lol They rushed him straight to the elevator, and my dear buddy just jetted off and left me in the cold as she plowed through his people to get a closer look. :( And don't believe her, I will never forgive her for that one!) lol Then we had the excitement of getting to meet Amanda and Erica as they came in to pick up their free tickets. What wonderfullllllllllllllll gals! They were such a blast!!! We exchanged cell phone numbers to keep in touch while traveling to the concert and dinner. Before we left the hotel, we got to see and meet the dancers and a few of his band members. What great sweet people!!!:) We got some great pics of them and with them. I can't wait to get them to everyone.
Next we head back to our hotel to get up with dear ol'
Danny boy. WHAT A SWEETHEART he is and totally had me on the floor laughing the whole time we were together. It was so wonderful meeting him finally after all these years of posting and listening to him on the boards. And THANK GOD for his expertise with a map. If it wasn't for him, I don't think Barb and I would have never made the Dallas concert until the night after the concert.lol After talking with Lissa and Carole over the cell, we finally got to meet them at dinner for the first time. What wonderful and sweet gals. And also Lissa's hubby was a gem and totally funny!! Amanda and Erica joined us also. After dinner we all headed to the concert.

Well this virgin went into total shock when that hunk hit the stage! I couldn't do anything but watch and turn that camera off and on. I was in total amazement as he was actually standing right in front of me and shaking that booty all over the place.lol What a difference compared to actually watching it on tape. We had security all over the place, but to get pictures it was ausome cause you weren't fighting the gals to take pics. I only took 60 of them just in Houston. lol And let me tell ya, if there was a tummy shot to be had, Dee got it!!!LMASO And those tight pants and shirts just drove us all wild, needless to say. Got a few backside shots also. lol And my God, that voice! I was on the floor when he sang Y Tu Vas . That song and that voice is just totally ausome!!! I would have loved to hear Solamente Tu Amor and Torero but he didn't break down and add them to his list.:( :( My one and only disappointment through this whole adventure is that he didn't break down and rip open his shirt which I waited three years to see.:( He just teased our faces!!!!! Those eyes, looks, winks, hugs and throwing kisses had us all drooling away. THOSE EYES SPEAK!!!! You don't even have to understand Spanish or hear him talk! He does it all with his actions! :) After the concert, Dan, Barb and I went back to the hotel to have a drink and settle ourselves down. Amanda and Erica headed to a after Chayanne concert party which we couldn't make because we had to head to Dallas early the next morning. By the way gals, how did that party turn out after all?? I would have just loved to join you two!!:( I know we would have had a blast in a half. Also forgot to say, I tried to give him a beautiful cowboy hat I bought, and security wouldn't even let me hand it to him.:( When she turned her head, I threw it onto the stage but the dancers got it instead of Chay. They did try to put it onto his head but he wouldn't let them at that time!:( Bad timing all the way around, I guess. lol

(Note from Carole: Dee's hat showed up the next night in Dallas on Grisel, one of the singers.)

Then came Dallas!!!!!!!! Dee finally came out of the fog!!!lol I actually watched most of the concert with my eyes instead of through a little hole in the camera.lol I only took 27 pics there.lol The security wasn't as tight there, so needless to say, we were taking pics through heads and hands. They had a video camera going on him the whole time, and he belted out Y Tu Vas directly looking into that camera. And when I say belted, I mean belted.!!! God if I had a tape recorder with me then!!! I have never heard it sound that good!!! I'd give anything to get my hands on that video for sure!!:) I got to finally catch ever hip, foot and shake he had going on!! LOL I know I needed a bib then!!LOL I actually clapped and sang along in Dallas since I didn't have the cam in my hand the whole time. lol I also got this great little bear that said "Proud in the USA" and finally got to hand it to him. Once he grabbed it and just touched my finger tips on my hands, I started shaking like a leaf and my heart just pounded a mile a minute. God, what that man can do to us!!! He did set it in the center of the stage which was neat. I did get to take a pic of him setting it down though. I just hope someone has a pic of me handing it to him. :) When this concert was finally over, all we wanted to do was see more and more of him. If he would have been anywhere else close around the Dallas and Texas area, these crazy gals would have went to everyone of them. lol YOU JUST CANT GET ENOUGH!!! I am so happy I still got Miami, but I will say, I will hate to see it end there!:(

Meeting Lissa, Brian, Carole, Danny, Amanda, Erica, Stephani and her mom, and finally Jeanne and Bob was just such a great experience in itself!!!! The men had us laughing all the time and had such a great outlook on Chayanne. (Which wouldn't happen with my hub! lol) The gals were just as sweet as can be and so much fun to hang with. I could go on about each and everyone of them but I already made this post soooooo long. I have great pics of the group shots which I will get posted as soon as I get back home. My hubby didn't load the program on my laptop to upload my pictures and didn't put the cord to the digital back in the case, so I had no way to upload my pics. Needless to say, this woman was livid!!!! So, I'm off to buy a new card for the digital now for Miami!! I know I'll think of more things later that I forgot, but I'll post again when I can pry Barb away long enough!!!lol I CAN'T WAIT to see everyone in Miami and to PARTAAA THERE!!:) I just wish each and everyone of you gals and guys were going so I could meet you ALL!!! See ya all again after Miami!!! lol I hope I didn't bore you too much, but IF I didn't type away now, God only knows when I would have had the time to do it!
LOVE TO ALL!!!!
Hugs, Dee

Lissa's hasslin' me to get this written so here goes.
On July 3rd, 2002, I attended my first Chayanne concert. Things didn't start real smoothly with Lissa sick and me at work. I finally got out of the office but Lissa was still sick. Not a good sign. I had planned to go with Lissa since she got so upset for me ditchin' last time, but it looked like I was goin' stag. With strangers. Hmmm.

Luckily. Lissa got to feelin' better and by the time I got home she was up and about and (almost) rarin' to go. So we all piled in the car and headed to the hotel to get our tickets. Unfortunately, someone decided that we'd taken too long and gave our tickets to someone else. But they had a bunch of spares. ??? I may be stupid, but wouldn't it make more sense to give the spares away first? You know, just in case the assigned recipients showed up, say, 10 minutes later? Now Lissa is unwell and unhappy. Trust me, it's not a good combination.

Thankfully, we had to go to dinner with, um, well, everyone else. Everyone was quite shocked about the tickets, but no-one was terribly surprised. The conversation at the table was way out of my reach as everyone compared their personal obsessions with the nights coming attraction. I just sat quietly and listened. Sort of like a soccer fan at a Braves game. We had a good dinner with reasonably priced margaritas and headed for the show.

Let me tell you about the Reliant Arena (used to be the AstroArena). It's a pretty good place to hold a rodeo or a livestock auction, but it is possibly the worst place in Houston to hold a concert. The acoustics are lousy and most of the seats are uncomfortable. Add in a surprisingly small crowd and you get a barn concert. The audio engineers tried desperately to fill the place with sound but all they got was echoes and some feedback. Sorry, but the music quality was poor.

The show was pretty good but security kept the crowd under such a tight rein that no-one was allowed to have much fun. I got the impression that everyone in the crew was a bit miffed by the end and were all praying that the Dallas show would be better. I couldn't conceive of it getting much worse. I was quite disappointed. The whole event seemed something of an anticlimax.

So, off to Dallas. Because Lissa was now feeling OK she decided to go with us. I was happy. She wanted to drive. I was confused. Lissa never drives on long trips. Must have been something she ate.

We got to the hotel. Nice hotel. Toilet clogged. Bad toilet. Listened to the disbelieving voices as telephone conversations revealed how screwed up the tickets were here, too. Overall, I have to give the management an F for keeping the fans happy. Seems like everyone was seriously pissed by the time it was all sorted.

Off we went to dinner. Lissa, Carole, and I were supposed to meet Danny, Dee, Barbara, et al, at Bennigans. Unfortunately, due to the ticket fiasco, none of them were able to make it. Another couple (Jeanne and Bob) were able to be there so we got a table and ordered drinks. For the record, the margaritas at Bennigans are the MOST EXPENSIVE IN THE WORLD. The base price was OK, but if you ordered a good tequila they added a shot charge that was MORE THAN THE ORIGINAL MARGARITA. Of course they don't tell you that, do they? Oh no. Dinner at Bennigans really should not cost that much. And my food was rubbish, too. Now my mood matched the rest of the crew. It was time to go to the show.

NextStage. How to compare it to the Reliant Arena? Private yacht vs. garbage scow? Brand new Mercedes vs. my old car? Let's just say that it was a significant improvement. Apparently the management hates Houston and likes Dallas. I can't think of any other reason for the choice of venues. I know Houston has better and I assume Dallas has old hovels, so it must have been a conscious decision.

The July 4th concert was way better than the the July 3rd event. The crowd seemed larger, the environment was more comfortable, the acoustics were excellent, and the security was less Gestapo-ish. Lots of people were allowed to give Chayanne flowers, which was cool. One lady gave him a teddy bear (you know who you are), which he promptly tried to stick down his pants. OK, that one I found mildly disturbing, but the crowd liked it so what the hey. The view from the second row was excellent and it was neat to actually see facial expressions. Seemed like everyone on stage was having fun even if I couldn't figure out what they were joking about.

In conclusion, I've now been to two Chayanne concerts. One pretty poor, one pretty good. Latin pop is still not my favorite music but I would be willing to go again if Lissa asks (and can get those really good seats). I met several very interesting people who all seemed to have a bizarre fixation on Chayanne. Sorry, but I'm just a straight, white male and I really don't understand all the fuss. But the music was good. It had a beat and you could dance to it.

Cheers

Once upon a time not so long ago Princesas from all over the country fell under an enchantment. What kind of enchantment you ask? The poor princesas couldn't bear to listen to music. Since being able to love music is an essential part of being a true princesas, it was decided that something had to be done. Their subjects and all the wizards tried everything, every remedy known to man, to no avail. The princesas still couldn't bear to listen to music. It was decided that all the princesas should go to the kingdom of Miami to see the greatest wizard of them all ... El Magi de San Lorenzo - for only he stood any chance at all of curing the princesas. So the princesas traveled from all over the country. They came from the kingdoms of Florida, California, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, Virginia, Missouri, even the kingdom of Georgia, to see the Magi. Upon their arrival they learned that they were to see the Magi in a place called the Knight Center and decided that was a sign that he would be able to help them, since knights always serve and protect princesas. As the princesas gathered to eat their breakfast many questioned whether this great wizard could help them. One princesa remarked "I once loved music and sang all the time, but now, I just don't want to deal with it". One by one they told the stories of when their love of music seemed to just disappear. One princesa from the kingdom of Virginia said "I heard we would meet the Magi of San Lorenzo and then later he would help us love music again". A doubting little princesa from Georgia said "Yeah, right, sure, we're all going to love music again.I've been treated, prodded and forced to listen to music for days on end and I still find music about as appealing as root canal and nobody that goes by the title El Wizard de San Lorenzo is going to change that just by talking to me". Later that day the princesas were asked to assemble in the Hall of Orchids and to be sure to look their very best. "Do you think the Magi of San Lorenzo will be there one princesa asked?" One very wise princesa said "We'll just have to wait and see?" The princesas talked among themselves and waited and waited. Finally the door opened slowly, and a tall man dressed casually in neutral colors slowly entered the Hall of Orchids. He said hello shyly and then he smiled. His smile was like a brilliant light that touched the hearts of all the princesas. Just being in his presence made the princesas hearts sing. He hugged them and told them how happy he was to meet each and every one of them. The princesas could almost feel music bubbling up inside of them. Then he told them he would see them all later and thanked them very much for coming to him and that he would help them. The princesas were ecstatic, they were floating on air. One naughty little princesa was even heard to remark "Forget the whole music thing, did you check out his biceps?" This made all the other princesas laugh and begin talking about just how good looking the Magi of San Lorenzo was. The doubting little princesa from Georgia said "El Magi looks so good I'd like to put him on a plate and sop him up with a biscuit". The other princesas could only stare and ask each other whether or not she spoke some acient dialect that none of them knew. The princesas were told to gather for their evening meal after which they would be taken to the great Knight Center where the Magi would administer his remedy.
The princesas all went to the Knight Center and took their assigned seats. All of a sudden the room when dark and a driving beat of guitars, saxophones and drums began. The princesas all covered their ears, afraid of the effect that the music would have on them. Suddenly the Magi, dressed all in black. appeared and started to sing. The princesas started to move to the music swaying from side to side and tapping their feet. The Magi moved across the stage among his assistants. They danced and repeated magical words like "Boom Boom pon a gozar tu cuerpo con el Boom and Enamorado,enamorado me tiene enamorado.Finally staring into the eyes of the princesas he said the word that would free them from their enchantment. ESSOOOO. Suddenly the princesas were on their feet screaming, waving their hands from side to side and singing along with the Magi. The enchantment was broken. The Magi had brought the music back into their lives.

Chayanne has brought the music into our lives and he did it in style on Friday night. There were fireworks and the song we have been waiting for him to perform in the US. That's right, he sang Torero, complete with black leather jacket and motorcycle. We rocked the house, we rocked the city, we had a blast and I don't think Miami is going to forget us too soon.
Besos y abrazos,
Robbye

Hola everyone!
In a word...EEEEEEESSSSSSOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! Our wonderful Chayfan get-together was aptly named, as it truly was the absolutely ultimate Chayfest weekend ever for me!!! I was so exhausted last evening when I got in, I was ready to drop...3 or 4 hours of sleep a night does take it's toll, but with all the fun and excitement going on down in Miami, we never wanted to call it a night. Now that I'm reasonably refreshed, I'll try to put all of my recent memories into words, but it won't be easy. I hardly know where to begin.

When I arrived in beautiful Miami Thursday night, I met up with Shiela, Judy, and Robbye whose flights had all come in at about the same time. Happy and excited to see each other again, we all piled into a cab to go to the Hyatt Hotel. By the time we got there, some of the other gals were back from having dinner at Bongo's. We first saw Dee and Barb, and then met Susie, and later Mimi, Joyce, Jeanne, Barbara A. and Phyillis. Finally, Miamah and Carole joined us as we had a bite to eat at the restaurant there. One of our first missions(besides filling our faces) was to get our hands on a copy of El Nueveo Herald, as it featured 2 beautiful full page pics and an article on our guy. We descended on the hotel gift shop and quickly scarfed up the few they had there. But Dee was bound and determined to find more for the rest of us, even if she had to venture out and search the whole city. So she and Robbye left, and magically returned a short while later with a huge pile of them to distribute. Maybe they'll fill you in on how they accomplished this great feat ;)! (You have our undying gratitude chicas, but I'm sure you enjoyed every minute):)!

Okay...on to the good stuff....

On Friday, concert night,we all convened at around 5:00 pm in one of the hotel meeting rooms, (Orchid D to be exact), to spend some time getting acquainted with one another before the concert. I was so privileged to meet many of the other nice fans who had gathered there. It was so much fun discussing stories and other Chay tidbits with one another! We had gotten some vibes that a certain man we all know and love might stop by (wonder who?), so we were waiting and watching with great anticipation to say the least. Suddenly, the door opened and in walked THE MAN HIMSELF!!!!! I was in total awe...I think my jaw must have dropped open at least a foot!! With his cute ball cap on and that precious smile that lights up a room, he said hello to us all. He was wearing an olive colored tank top covered with a lighter olive long sleeved shirt and tan baggy pants both with an embroidered peacock or something similar on the sides. And he had on the cutest tennis shoes, although I must admit, I really wasn't focusing on that part of him that much ;)! Oh, and he had his shades around his neck...the whole effect was quite enchanting!! Before I knew it, Shiela, who I had been standing next to, went right up to him and threw her arms around him. So, I automatically followed suit and went over and gave him a big hug and mumbled something really original like, "It's so nice to meet you." It all happened so fast and was almost dreamlike, but I distinctly remember his lips on my cheek, with a kiss I'll never forget. I couldn't take my eyes off him...he was so gorgeous, most beautiful in person, and so gracious, sweet, and charming. A little later, I was able to get a picture with him. He was sandwiched between Robbye and I and I remember him saying in his precious accent, this is like a press conference", we all laughed, which is probably why I'm grinning like a cheshire cat in the picture, not that I wouldn't have been anyway from sheer happiness!! Afterwards, he gave me a little squeeze and said "thankyou"! I said, "no...... THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

We presented him with a beautiful scroll made my Dee with Miamah's poem, "Dream Weaver" inscribed on it, and we all signed our names at the bottom. What a wonderful moment! He seemed to really be enjoying himself and surprised at our large, loyal group who had come from near and far to see him in concert. At one point Jeanne gave him a special doll she had made...her version of a miniature Chayclone but I'll let her tell you about that.
I have unending gratitude for everyone who was involved in making this all possible, Susie, Carol S., Paula, Patty, and other members of management, and of course, Chayanne!! Please let me know if I have left any names out I should have mentioned.

On to the concert.....I'll have to try to shorten this up as it's turning into a novel. The concert was just spectacular...the best one to date!!!!!!!!!! Being third row, center, from the stage was such a treat for me! He is the consummate performer....I never wanted it to end. At one point he thanked us for coming in English and for all our support. Also, while he was singing, "Hasta Que Alma Resista" he took the camera and aimed it at us, so some of were on the big screen....what fun!! We got fireworks, confetti, and......"Torero"!!!Oops, I'm screaming again!! When he came out for his "Yo Te Amo" encore, instead of going right into "Boom Boom", he left again.....and soon came out much to our amazement and delight, on a Harley motorcycle and proceeded to perform Torero!!! The audience went wild, including us!!! It was so awesome!!!

After the concert, we had a party, and met more wonderful fans. I spent some time talking to Elizabeth, and Marcio, who have both been fans since Los Chicos days. Both of them were so sweet and nice. I had met Marcio through emails about a year ago, and it was so cool to finally meet him! He had taken a very long bus ride from Houston to see Chay in concert and also with hopes of finally meeting his idol. Unfortunately, he had just missed him when he got to the hotel. My heart goes out to him and I truly hope that next time, it will happen for him(somehow I know it will!)

On Saturday, twelve of us crammed into Dee's van and we went sightseeing! Saw a lot of Miami and "special" points of interest! We had a ball even if the people in the back just about roasted to death! That evening we headed down to SouthBeach.(Yes Carole, we finally did make it there). We spent some time in Mango's, a popular Latin Club, where we were engulfed with tropical salsa music and dancing! We had a wonderful time, at least I did! I can't speak for everyone, but I know Robbye enjoyed it immensely!! That waiter of ours sure was a doll wasn't he Robbye?

In closing....I never wanted the weekend to be over...If we could have made time stand still for a while, I sure would have! I had the thrill of my life meeting Chayanne, an amazing dream come true, and the best part of all was spending time with my wonderful Chayfamily, old and new, the sweetest people in the world. I'll hold all of you in my heart for always!!!

Muchos besos y abrazos a todos!!!
Carol

Virginia Channel WMIA is beginning its broadcast day. Today’s headline: “Miamah Travels to See Latin Pop Star Chayanne in Miami”.
BREAKING NEWS: Man Demands Entry Into Cockpit: During the Atlanta to Miami leg of Miamah’s flight (with her friend Carole), a man demanded entry into the cockpit. The cute little stewardess was not having it! She told him no several times and then “not on this flight you won’t!” The man was taken away in handcuffs by many storm trooper-looking policemen (with the high leather boots, etc), FBI and CIA agents. Later, it was found that this was a mentally-challenged Bolivian man on his way home with his Mother!!! Miamah was NOT amused!!!

Back to our headline story…… Upon arrival in Miami, Miamah looked up an old college friend and then she and Carole did the tourist thing!! Great Cuban food and fun wandering…waiting for the Chayfest ladies to arrive. We met Susie first. She is just the cutest little thing….very perky! When she came in the room, I do believe the air around us just lightened up! Great lady. Then little by little, others trickled in and we all got together that night and acted slightly nutty (loud, crazy) in the hotel bar. I was so glad to see old friends: Barb, Dee, Carol Ring, Phyllis. What wonderful, sweet women you all are. I was so afraid that it would be years before I saw you all again…and Chay-miracle, here we were together again. Meeting new friends was just too much fun: Judy, Robbye, Sheila, Joyce, Jeanne, and Mimi. Ooooh, I felt as if I knew you already, but in person you were just much, much more wonderful. By Friday we could add Carol Saunders (one classy chick) and Barbara from Chicago (you go, blondie!) to the group. I was overwhelmed by the love among us. It was genuine. There were others I met at the reception who were Ricky fans. Unfortunately I didn’t get to know them very well. Maybe next time! I have to say that this was the highlight of the entire trip: getting a chance to meet all of these phenomenal women…each one beautiful…each one a treasure.

We’ll be back in a minute with the next segment. Meanwhile, have a snack, then sit back and relax, because there’s lots more to come.

We pick up our story on Friday, July 12th: After gathering for a great breakfast of a little food and lots of talking and laughing, we all scattered for our afternoon shopping, napping, etc. and promised to reconvene in the lobby at 4:30pm. This happened after we learned from Susie and Carol that our best chance of seeing His Gorgeousness was BEFORE the concert, rather than after. Susie did a heroic job of contacting folks who were not at the hotel, so everyone would get a chance to meet Chayanne.

BREAKING NEWS: Miamah gets stuck in the elevator! Of course, on my way down to join the ladies for the 4:30 deadline, I got into an elevator whose doors were opening and closing constantly. I decided that if I just hit the inside of the elevators, the doors would close…and they did!! Problem is…they wouldn’t open!! I had to be rescued and my only thought was that I’d miss Chayanne!!!! (OK, I admit it, I did start beating on the doors when the guy didn’t come fast enough to pry the doors open!!) Ironically, downstairs Carole asked where I was and Jeanne joked that maybe I was stuck in the elevator!!! Ay ay ay ay ay

Back to our story: All of the ladies looked smashing!! This was one well-dressed group of Chaynuts!!! The beautiful ladies proceeded down the Orchid room to await the most gorgeous man in the world!!! Carol was told that he would arrive around 5, so at 5:20 the natives were getting a little restless. We were told he would come down a certain hallway, so that’s where we were looking. Representatives of the 3 sites were out in the hall, while the others waited in the room. All of a sudden, from an entirely different route, big men in Black appeared. They parted and THERE HE WAS!!! I never thought he could be more beautiful than he was when I met him in Mexico City…but I was WRONG! He was more handsome than ever. Dressed casually in his ever-present baseball cap, a light colored jacket and pants….he was the very definition of sexy! He was so gracious, taking pictures with us outside the room and chatting a little about what he would find the doors opened!!! I still don’t think he was prepared for what was inside…He was all smiles. He joked with everyone, took pictures, clowned around (with his clone) and spent a nice amount of time with the group. He even let some ladies touch his hair!!! Now, how did I manage to miss out on that!!! Geez! It was over too quickly. When he left it was like the aftermath of a brilliant lightening storm…the sky no longer lit up, but the intensity of the event had left us stunned!

After this break, we’ll continue: Get up, walk around and stretch… there’s more to come.

And we’re back!!! When we could breathe again, we met at the Riverwalk Café for dinner. The food was excellent and the chatter was about one thing and on thing only – what we had just experienced!!! A dream walked into that room and once again, our lives were transformed. None of us will ever be the same. It’s that simple! During all of this, I had a chance to spend time with Paula and meet my sweet Alejandra (Chay’s receptionist). It was wonderful to see Patty again and I was truly astonished when she walked to me (after 2 years) and said “Well, Miamah, what’s been going on?”!!

Now it was time! We marched over to the Michael Knight Center and prepared ourselves for the concert. I was lucky enough to be front row, center!!! Lights dimmed, the music started and my heart started to palpitate! And there he was!! I have seen this man in concert on 8 occasions. In each of them, he was wonderful. On Friday night, July 12th, 2002, HE WAS BRILLIANT! He looked like a piece of art sculpted by the ultimate Master…he moved like sex on 2 legs…he sang like the embodiment of sensuality… he smiled like a supernova…he hypnotized me like a magician….he transported me out of this world right into his…and that is where I will remain! He is enchanting. He is compelling. He is what I want; what I need; what I desire; what I cannot have! He filled me with emotion and then left me bereft. When it was over, I felt empty.

We’ll take a break here, because the commentator is overcome and needs to collect herself. Talk amongst yourselves….

I have collected myself enough to go on with the story. I know that I will express myself through words a lot in the near future. I hope that you will bear with me.

We then went back to the Orchid room for the lovely reception that Carol put together for us. We talked and laughed about the momentous events of the day. However, I found I had no words to say. I withdrew into myself. After the reception, some of the ladies came up to Carole and my room and it was great to sit and chat, but again, my words were imprisoned in my heart and I had difficulty talking.

The next morning, we all gathered for breakfast before I left for New York. I can’t thank each of them enough for getting up early to come down and say goodbye. How I love each of you. Please know that you are etched in my heart – without you, my heart could not function.

And so, this segment of the story ends. Stay tuned tomorrow for the continuation: Miamah Does New York (with Patricia)!!!

Barbara's Pictures

Hola Chay-sisters I found this review (online) today and thought I would share it with you. Personally I think someone needs to talk to one of us and find out what WE think depth is. Robbye

POP MUSIC REVIEW
Charismatic Chayanne brings the house down
BY JORDAN LEVIN
jlevin@herald.com

Let's just call Chayanne a perfect pop machine. From his smoothly flashing moves, to the boyishly gleaming smile on his uncannily handsome face, to his relentlessly explosive party music, he's pure pop star.

That doesn't make him a great musician or a great singer. But he is a charismatic and entertaining performer, the shining center of the whirling, glittery bauble of a show that he put on at the James L. Knight Center Friday night.

It's not deep. Boom Boom was the song with which Chayanne opened and closed the concert, and that pretty much describes most of his music; a throbbing, uptempo dance pop with light tropical flavor, with songs that are almost identical rhythmically and melodically. But oh, do people have a good time with it. The Puerto Rican singer only had to smile or flash his muscular torso (not to mention the spinning jumps) and the sold-out house went screamingly crazy.

Women outnumbered men in the audience approximately three to one (two made it on stage, one managing to tear backstage after Chayanne as he ducked off for a costume change). But his sexiness is all part of the package; his movements and gestures so perfectly choreographed, and his whole persona so boyishly exuberant, that even when he gyrates up against one of the female dancers it just seems like good clean fun.

Chayanne's appeal doesn't really come from sexuality, but from an eagerness to please and celebrate. ''What matters most is that you all have a good time,'' he said. ''This night is full of stars and I'm not talking about outside.'' His earnestness humanizes all that glossy perfection.

This tour is promoting a greatest hits album, and the concert was heavy on older hits like Provocame, Ay Mama, and Enamorado. Starting out in black with a black leather vest, later shifting to jeans and various tight T-shirts, Chayanne outdanced his six dancers -- he's spectacular to watch, and the choreography for his concerts is better than for most Latin artists. He's not as compelling on ballads -- his voice is husky, light and thin, and he becomes convincing only when he can turn it into a power anthem, like he did in Hasta Que El Alma Resista (Until the Soul Resists). Candela, a sweet, bubbly tropical song that Chayanne dedicated to his home island, made for a welcome change of pace during a ballad sequence. It didn't last long before things amped up again. But with all that gorgeously shifting surface, you couldn't really expect to get depth too.

New York

June 14

........Well for the first time in my life I am speechless!...I am finding it so hard to express the way meeting "Chayanne" has affected me.
The man is so gracious, polite, loving and not to mention HANDSOME.. He made me feel so special..When I first saw him in the corridor of his dressing room, he had entered with three other men... It took me about five seconds to realize that he was one of them...All I could say was, "Oh My God It's Him", and as he approached me, "Oh My God It's You", and when he reached me, "Oh My God".... He smiled at me and I told him who I was...He gave me the biggest and warmest hug and said, "I am so glad to finally meet you"...All I could say was, "Oh My God I can't believe I am finally holding you"... Then he went into his dressing room... A few minutes later Pattie called me to go in... With Miamah at my side we went in... Oh my God what a feeling it was!... He then again gave me another hug, and held me so tight I thought I was going to die, telling me again how happy he was to finally meet me and that is when Miamah snapped the picture... When I had the picture developed I almost freaked out when I saw it... The moment, the mood, everything was captured forever..... Thank you Miamah!...Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.....The funniest thing is that if you were able to see my face it had the same exact look on it...lol......How cool was that...We chatted for a little while...I told him it took me three years to get here, he replied with, "I'm so sorry"...(HOW CUTE WAS THAT)... I told him I was looking foward to the concertand he said, "I hope you enjoy it"... I told him not to worry, I know I will, as will everyone else...He said "Thank you very much"...We took a few more pictures... He told me again it was a real pleasure to finally meet me and I replied, "The pleasure is all mine Trust me"....As we were leaving, he again told me he was sorry it took three years to meet....I told hiim it was worth the wait, but not to make it another three..we laughed...Miamah and I got a hug good-by, and it was all over...(WELL NOT REALLY)....Every time I look at that picture I can feel him as if it were happening all over again...
The Concert was fabulous, the place was rocking... Only I found it a little hard dancing and jumping around with my feet floating off the ground... I still haven't touched down yet....(DON'T THINK I CARE TO EITHER)...
Well I have met my Angel, I have touched him, and I have embraced him...(Oh! and he smelt soooooooo good).....I have looked into his eyes and have seen a little bit of Heaven.... A dream come true?....You Betcha!!!!!!....Chayanne has captured my heart and soul forever....
P.S. I will never wash that blouse...lol
So there you have it, A day I will never forget....
P.S.S.....Poetic Humor of the event to follow.....
Patricia........."La reina de los Abrazos" ....

Good day…. Virginia channel WMIA is back on the air. Today’s headline: Miamah Does New York (with Patricia).
At the beginning of our special broadcast covering the Chayanne concerts, we broke the story of Miamah’s Miami concert report. Today, we continue onto New York City.

Miamah’s trip to New York City was uneventful. When asked about this, Miamah replied “Thank goodness. Seeing Chayanne is excitement enough… no more would-be cockpit tourists!” Miamah spent her time, not in New York City, but in YONKERS with her friend Patricia. She had a wonderful time reminiscing about past Chayanne appearances and playing with Patricia’s handsome grandson. (The kid’s blue eyes are unbelievable!!!)

When Sunday finally arrived, the pre-Chayanne concert nerves began! After contacting Patty (Chayanne’s manager) about the proposed visit for Patricia with Chayanne, the 2 ladies prepared to make the trip into the City. At 5pm, a beautiful white, stretch limo pulled up outside (thank you to Patricia’s son-in-law) and off they went, hearts palpitating and prayers going up that nothing would spoil The VISIT.

BREAKING NEWS: Hotels no longer have to have marquees and signs that indicate where they are located!!! The hotel Chayanne was staying in was simply …. There!! The only indication that it might be a hotel were the very hip young men outside who, periodically, helped very casually chic looking people out of cabs and into the doors!

Back to our story. Once the mysterious hotel was located, Miamah and Patricia ascended a very long escalator and found themselves in one of the most opulent hotels Miamah had ever seen. Mahogany front desk, dark wood paneling, beautiful wood floors. On each side were lovely tables and chairs with phones where one could chat. There was a library, an outdoor restaurant called The Park, an art deco restaurant all in white…it was resplendent!!! We spoke to Patty and found that the meeting with Chayanne would be backstage at the venue. An “all access” backstage pass was provided and off the ladies went to Madison Square Garden.

Everyone take a break…go to the bathroom, get a drink… when we come back, The VISIT!

Annnnnnnnnd, we’re back! Miamah and Patricia make their way down to the backstage area of the Garden. The wonderful “all access” pass works its magic and they are staring at a door with Chayanne’s name on it. Of course, he has not arrived as yet. However, about 20 minutes later, he just appears! He gives Miamah a very surprised “Hi” and a look, as if to say “you’re here again?” However, he also plants a big one right on her cheek and says he’s glad to see her. Then her turns to Patricia and gives her a huge hug. In another report, Patricia will give the details of her moments with Chayanne.

In about 5 minutes, Patty calls Patricia and Miamah into Chayanne’s dressing room (which is HUGE!). Patricia has a lovely visit with him, filled with hugs and kisses, while Miamah acts as photographer.

BREAKING NEWS: Miamah did not even ask for a picture with Chayanne. Miamah has lost her mind!

Back to our story… Chayanne then says that he needs to get ready for the concert. He looks at Miamah and says that he has already seen her. Miamah must have looked sticken, because then Chayanne grabbed her by the shoulder and gave her a sweet kiss and thanked her for coming.

We then went in to await the concert. The place looked filled to capacity. Miamah looked around for the ladies from the Café, but didn’t see them because she couldn’t remember exactly where they were seated!! The concert began and, as in Miami, he was electrifying. No one can use their body to illustrate the nuances of a song like this Latin singer. A look – screams. A hip thrust – yelling. A smile – pandemonium!

BREAKING NEWS: Very silly girl thinks she can videotape the concert without getting caught. Unfortunately, when she was spotted by security, she had to cross over Miamah and Patricia at least 8 times because she kept “forgetting’ the video camera! Nerves were frayed. However the young lady stopped just in time to avoid being ….hmmm….”shown” to her seat by Miamah and Patricia!!

Well, audience, we are the end of the Chayanne concert adventures for Miamah for 2002. As she and Patricia rode in the limo back to Yonkers, each was very introspective about what had occurred. Miamah is home in Virginia now. The concerts for her are over. But is it the end?

Never!

Thank you for tuning in to WMIA. This is the end of our broadcast day. Stay tuned for “Can You Hear My Soul Speaking?” – a collection of poems and stories written by Miamah and inspired by Chayanne.

Phoenix

June 19

San Jose

June 21

I just got home a little while ago from the San Jose concert and decided, since I now have a computer at home, I didn't want to wait until I got to work tomorrow to give my report.
Chiqui, it was very nice meeting you, and thank you again for the wonderful experience we all had because of you

The SJ concert was every bit as good as the Miami concert with the only difference being there was no fireworks, confetti, and Torero. To me, Chayanne looked rested, and he gave us everything he had and I mean everything! The red shirt he wears with the jeans was so wet from perspiration the only dry spot on it was the very bottom where he had had it tucked in.

I'll start at the beginning.

I got a phone call from Chiqui Saturday, the day before the concert. When I answered the phone I thought she was calling me to tell me that she hadn't received the concert ticket she bought from me that I had put in the mail on Tuesday. To my surprise, she told me that she was renting a limo to take her to the concert and would I like to go with her. I couldn't believe that not only was I going to the last concert in the US, I was going to the concert in style! I told Chiqui that I wanted to surprise Shiela and my two friends who were going with me to the concert so I wasn't going to tell them about the limo. I have to explain that one of my friends is 77 years old. I took DWM to her place to watch one night a few months ago and ever since then she thinks he is wonderful, handsome, and has a beautiful voice. I knew that riding in a limo to go see Chayanne in concert would give her such an added thrill, and I was right.

We met Chiqui at her hotel and the limo picked us up a little before 6:30. When we got close to the venue there was a long line of cars waiting to turn into where the parking structure was. In front of us was a car with a young woman who kept sticking her head out the back window to look at us as she thought that the limo was carrying Chayanne. I'm sure she was convinced that he was in there but she never got the chance to find out if he was or not as the car turned into the parking structure and we went straight in as far as we could go as my other friend walks with two canes and the driver was trying to drop us off as close as he could.

We found our seats and met Harmony and a few others who just happened to be sitting next to us...ladies, if you are reading this I'm sorry but I just cannot remember your names. The wait began, and then finally, he was there in all his gorgeousness singing his first song. As I said earlier, he looked rested and fresh to me so that made him look all the more handsome! The audience was with him all the way singing, clapping, screaming and trying to get up close enough to touch him. In front of the stage was some steps on the left side with a half wall in front of the steps, at one point of the concert he came down the steps right next to the half wall and let everyone that came up to it touch him.

While Chayanne was singing Fiesta In America Shiela threw a little bear up on the stage but it was picked up by one of the dancers when they left the stage after the song was over...bummer! I however faired much better! I had bought a little multi-colored bear in the gift shop at the hotel in Miami so I wouldn't have to hunt for something when I got home for the SJ concert. I chose a little multi-colored bear with a blue ribbon around his neck because I figured that not many people would choose something like that (if a lot of things were thrown up on the stage I could tell which was mine if he picked it up). Now, I wasn't quite convinced that I was going to be able to throw my little bear up on the stage because it seemed a good distance away, and I didn't want it to fall between the half wall and stage. But yet, because I had bought this little bear to throw to Chayanne I didn't want to take it back home with me either so I kept it in my hand waiting until I thought it would be a good time to try and get it up there. Well, he came out in the pink shirt that Shiela doesn't like which meant there was only a few more songs left so I knew that if I was going to throw it I had better do it soon. I threw it and it landed pretty close to the middle of the stage just a little back from where he was singing so he turned and walked back to it, picked it up and stuck it in his pants and there it stayed until he left the stage for the final time.

When we came out of the venue there were people selling shirts...yes Shiela...I got 2 for you!

We went back to the limo that was waiting for us and it was funny to see people hanging around it thinking that it was for Chayanne. When we got in they were really disappointed. One lady even asked me if we were going to his hotel and I told her no we were not but I guess she didn't believe me because she asked me if she could come with us. As we drove away down the street a car pulled up beside us and they were yelling and waving to us as they thought Chayanne was in the limo too.

My friends were really thrilled to see Chayanne, especially my 77 year old friend. It was really fun see her excited and to hear her talk about him like we do. Just because our bodies get old it doesn't mean our minds do!

Well, I hope I didn't bore you with my long story.

Chiqui...thanks again with much love.

Judy

Hi all, just got home from SJ and am dead tired but had to say a couple of words before I conk out!
Judy pretty much said it all but I will add a few highlights. First Judy and her friends picked me up at my nephew's house and we went and had a late lunch early dinner. Then we went to the hotel to pick up the tickets that Judy had won. When we got there no one had any idea what we were talking about. No tickets had been left for us! While we were having them call everyone's rooms. this guy walks over and says "I noticed your Chay tee shirt and wondered if you might be looking for these"? It was Jose, I recognized him from Miami. and we laughed and talked to him for a couple of minutes and then we had the front desk girl take our pic with him. He is so darn cute, I told him I did not get his pic in Miami so was going to get it now.

The sad part of this is that the tickets that we had given away were on the floor, 2nd row front and center and these were way to the right of the stage, first row of the bleachers. Judy's two friends offered to exchange their seats with us, and it worked out well for them as they could get to them much easier than the ones in the middle of the second row. So we dried our tears and joined my family, that I had also bought tickets for, and Chique. So my daughter finally humored her mother and attended her first Chay concert. I have a feeling it will not be her last....LOL
The concert was great as usual annnnnnnnnnnnnnd, he wore a new shirt. Stay tuned for pics which will take me a couple of days to get posted. Keep your fingers crossed that they turn out good.

It was great meeting Harmony and her friends and Odalis stopped by also. Chique, thank you so much for making our last concert such a memorable one. That was my first limo ride, what a stylish lady you are and I loved sitting with you at the concert. You get as excited as I do!(sorry about spelling of names, I am so bad)

Well that will do till I get the pictures!

Love to ya all,
Shiela

Chayfest Pictures

The Miami Motorcycle