Anniversary

Dave and I just celebrated our 14th anniversary! We had a great weekend together talking about old times and just being relaxed. How lucky I am that I get to go through life with such a wonderful man!! He is such a good person, dependable, hard working, honest, great father, faithful, fun, smart, and kind. He is pretty much all the things that I aspire to be. I can remember the first time I saw him, I literally knew in my heart that I would marry him. It was weird, but I think that the Spirit was telling me back then to hold on tight to him. I'm grateful that I did! I love you Dave!!

Mothers

I realize that yes this a late Mother's Day post but I just had to share a few thoughts. First off, I miss my Mom really bad right now. She just had a way of making everything right. She was the ultimate caring person. She always thought of others feelings, needs, wants. She was always there and she always had a wonderful listening ear and soft kind words that seemed to make everything seem "okay" in life. In the past week I had a sister and a brother have their first children. It is a happy time, but at the same time I find myself really yearning for the things that my Mom has missed out on. I like to picture her holding those special spirits in her arms before they came down. I'm sure she did. She loved babies!! My sister Catherine had twins and I'm sure that my Mom yearns to be here for her physically as much as my sister Catherine yearns for her too. I find myslef wishing I could be as good and as supportive as my Mom would have been, yet I know I'm not. My Mom was everything! But at the same time, I find myself so grateful these past few days for the bond of sisterhood that my Mom gave me. That I was lucky enough to have 4 awesome sisters, not to mention sister-in-laws and friends and a spectacular mother in law who help nuture me through my "rough" spots. I think in those situations my Mom has personally helped send those people to me. My mom use to always say something to me that I will never forget "friends come and go but you will always have your siblings". I realize the truth to this more and more as I get older and I am thankful for the times that my Mom made me drag along a younger sister with my friends in my jam packed suburban, or when she made me play with a sister even though I was told old to play with barbies, or when she made me tend my younger sibilings and walk their crying behinds around the family room to sooth them. My Mom taught me pretty much everything, but most of all how to try to be a mother. I am so so thankful for those around me who truly love and care for me and accept me for who I am these days. Life has had many turns and roundabouts for me in the past few years and I see that the hand of my Mom is so strong in life sending precious souls my way, more than I ever had before. I truly cherish each one of my "sisters" whether related or not for the care that you give me. And I am thankful every day that I was raised by one class act Mom!

On another note, Mother's Day is usually very built up in our minds as mothers. We invision beautiful breakfasts in bed with fresh fruit and waffles, as well as flowers and maybe even a whirlwind trip we could get whisked away on. But rarely do these things happen for me Mother's Day (actually I should say these things have NEVER happened for me on Mother's day! lol) But this year wasn't even about the gifts or the dishes that my husband did or DIDN'T do, but about the cute cards and thoughts my kids gave me. I was truly spoiled by them! Maren can barely write, but did her best job on drawing a picture and writing her name. And then a recieved the most darling heartfelt letter from Matthew. It is truly one of my most prized possessions. I have to share it with you all(although I have correced the spelling. lol):

Dear Mom-
I love all you do. You alwaysed cared about me. You raised me and Maren and Will with lovliness. You were always there when I had a problem and when you weren't there I thought of how strong and courageous you were. You always helped me and cared about me and when I was scared you always came. You always told me it was okay. And when you had fun with me I had joy. When I was stung by a bee you helped me. I love how nice you are and when we need help we can look up to you.
Love-
Matthew

I only hope that someday I can live up to all that he thinks of me. What a sweetie! Thoughts and letters like these are the true presents of motherehood for me!

Cookie Dough

Happy Birthday to my sweet Maren Elizabeth today! I can't believe that it has been 5 years since I had her. I can still remember my sweet baby girl. I will never forget how blessed I felt to have a baby girl. I felt so lucky to even have kids, let alone to get the opportunity to have my own little girl doll. I can still remember dressing her, putting bows in her hair and rocking her for hours. I remember with Maren it didn't feel like a burden at all to get up with her in the night and feed her, like it had with Matthew my first. She was a dream! She would just sit still on my lap for hours and watch the world go by. She could still do this today. She is funny, sweet, hilarious, girlie, happy. She loves to sing and dance. She LOVES to put on make up and do anything that I am doing. She loves to get dressed up, put on perfume, read books and cuddle. She is everything I could have ever wanted in a daughter. What joy she brings to my life. I am forever indebted to a Heavenly Father who has blessed me with so much, especially Maren!! Love you Cookie Dough!

AI Finale

So here we are again, one of the saddest times of the year. When those, who are as pathetic as I and only have basic cable, go into a mourning period for all the shows we have loved and lost due to the summer season. I will sorely miss AI and all the joy that it brought to me. Particularly at the beginning when I laughed at the exspense of others who sing no better than me, but were dumb enough to go on tv and do it. Ahhh the memories!
Tonight we learned a few things. First off we have learned 2 important bits of information about Paula. One was that she just returned from her own personal bahamas trip (ie Mystic tan) and wowed us with her orange skin against the shiny glow of her green top. Which leads us to the second important fact about Paula, that she does not wear a bra. Another important tidbit or lesson if you will, was that even though Kara Laguardia thinks that she is a songwriter, she proved us all wrong by writing one of the worst/most cheesiest finale numbers we have witnessed. I think it was about hurricane Katrina or something. Both of the competitors pretty much sucked it up on that song. But I have to say that there also must have been something wrong with the mics because both of them were really hard to hear over the accompniment.
One of my favorite happenings of the night was that they ACTUALLY had a FAIR coin toss in which Adam lost and could not continue on with his rigged last place singing. Of course he had to bring back for all his EMO friends "Mad Mad World" Of which I probably only know 2 people who enjoyed it, my nephew Josh and my friend Denise. Hmmm...we'll forgive them. When he finished another favorite Marenism for me was when Paula was giving her "props" to Adam and telling him how great he looked, Maren yelled out "she should have told him how girlish he looks". Such wise words from a 4 year old. One of my favorite outfit moments came for me with his final song though where I couldn't decide if his jeans were "acid wash" or if they were silver. Very thought provoking. He did okay with the 2nd performance until he lost me with the tongue thrusts again. I have come to grips that Adam will win American Idol, but I still don't have to like it.
I have to say though, I was impressed with Kris tonight. He gave us a good show. I think I caught some hope when he actually sang his first song at the PIANO instead of the guitar. And I thought he won round 1 for sure with his song. He did MUCH better than I thought he would. I actually really enjoyed the second song too and he avoided SOME of his weird mannerisms by sitting down, but still a side singer. There were points tonight which I wasn't sure who was annoying me more. But I knew that I had to let Kris annoy me less than Adam or I would have turned to the dark side. Kris was okay on the last song but again, what can you do with something that is crappy at best to begin with?
All in all, it's been a great ride and I'm sure we will have many more days together seeing Adam on the Today Show, Regis and Kelly etc. to annoy us some more. I can hardly wait! And now my blog will go back to regular scheduled Stone family programming. Unless by some miracle Kris wins, where I will have to right a post just for the ways I love him for beating Adam!

AI Final 3

I always look forward to the judges picking a song for contestants because usually it ends up being the bomb. Like what most of America might want them to sing. Tonight, was not the case. First off....who else noticed AGAIN that Adam went last!! And also that Simon was picking the song...very interesting and yes rigged!

I thought Danny did a great job on his first song considering no one has ever heard of that song and/or Terence Trent Darby unless you were in jr. high in the 80's like me. But glad to know that Paula got a good dance out of it and probably pretended to be at a night club in her glory days. And I don't know what they are saying about his dancing, cause I think he is fine. I LOVED his second song. GREAT choice and he sounded awesome! What more can you say about that.

Okay Kris I thought was pretty good on his first song. Although he does bug me in ways, I was at least impressed that I think the guy has talent. He can do more than one instrument and sing at the same time. I was LOVING it when Simon slammed Kara for her outrageous comments. Just so you know, I believe that she is also in on the plot of rigging the show. She seems to only have good comments and amazement faces saved up for Adam. Interesting...She bugged me the WHOLE show tonight! You know you are a sad case Kara when you make Paula almost look more refined.... I couldn't believe she would pick a song and then rip it to shreds like he was the idiot! HELLOOOOO. I have to say for the second song though...he lost me on guitar. Whenever he pulls the guitar out I want to run out of the room because his whole dancing, side singing, presence with the guitar bugs me. And it again reminds me why I don't want to see him make an album, because I would have to endure more of that action. The song was okay if you closed your eyes and didn't watch.

Now for the last and final annoyer of the night Adam. First, let's discuss the acid wash shirt that he wore during his first song. I haven't seen a "denim" shirt in many a year. And acid wash at that. And showing his freshly shaven baren chest. Yay!! (BARF) And then to sing "One" and so ROYALLY destroy it with his lack of any melody resembling the original song and his tongue thrusts. That was the most Whitney Houston version of "One" that I have ever heard. I hope U2 was pissed that they ever let him give it a go!! And all his smarmy cheessy condescendingness at the end of it to America like "do you guys know how incredible the lyrics are? Don't just focus on my awesome singing" Wow, thanks Adam! And who else felt like that was really not "fair play". U2 vs. Terrence Trent Darby hmm...I wonder which America will like better? Darn you American Idol for rigging the show once again! And my only happiness came at the end of the night when he was finished giving us his best rockettes version of "Crying" which wasn't all that impressive at all. I wonder which he studies more during the week, his sultry looks and cat like walking, or the tongue thrusts?? AHHH please America don't let him win!! Save yourselves!! At least we have one more week before the final blow.

AI Week 9 - Rock the House

I was pretty excited for Rock Week on AI. Mostly I was just excited to see Slash and if he would really hate the cheesiness of AI or not. I thought he was totally funny cause he was not overly excited about contestants in anyway. But could you just believe if you were Kris rocking out with him... awesome! And I also wonderered why he didn't call out anyone for not singing Guns N Roses, cause that would have been awesome. So, once again, I'm sure you are not shocked I was TOTALLY annoyed with Adam. That was just about the most literal gay rock performance I have ever seen. And by gay I mostly mean lame!! I was very unimpressed with his Whole Lotta Love and it was Whole lotta annoying! Does no one else notice that he is screaming the whole time? Which generally I like, but not the way he is doing it with the whole tongue issue. And then later Danny gets flamed for screaming. What the? And did anyone else notice his head tick when he cocks it to the side to show his bad self attitude, but really it just shows to me that he is once again a total drama freak. Why can't he just sing??!!! And I think that was the first time that Adam has ever been first. Although once again I think they were rigging the show so that they could make everyone look "less" rock that followed. Which isn't hard because no one else is all about the make up and hair and sassiness, even including Allison! I also thought that the duet with he and Allison was totally boring! What was up with Kara and Randy totally in awe and thinking they should cut an album with their duet... UGH! Enough of the Adam fest already!!
Anyway, I liked Allison last night and I was hoping that she would rock the house. Before she went on I just kept praying that she would not sing Heart and thank goodness she went with Janet. I have never heard that song, but I really dug her version of it. I also would have loved to see her sing Piece of My Heart. I think the judges were right on that. She and Danny are pretty much my only hopes now to win. But both of them are still really talented so hopefully America will look past Adam's smoke and mirrors and see Allison and Danny.
I liked Danny and Kris' duet. There harmonies were dope dawgs! Although I did think Kris pretty much was knocked out on the solo part by Danny. Still enjoyable though. And did anyone else think Danny looked super hot (said Pedro style) during the duet? I was loving the red shirt, and yes scarily enough even the chain necklace thingies. How could I get Dave to dress like that? He does have a gold chain from his mission... hmm...
I liked Kris jam session but it just showed how weak he really is vocally compared to the others. And once again he was back to annoy me with his guiatarisms with the whole dancing and facial expressions. Ugh! I'm afraid he is the one to go this week most likely.
I didn't like Danny's solo performance that much but he is just a good singer. He should have picked a different Aerosmith song cause I think he was in the right direction. He just seems like and overall great dude!
It would be the bomb if Adam was in the final 2, but probably won't happen. So everyone better start voting so he is at least not in the final 2..

AI Week 8

I'm going to go in order of my least fav performance last night to my most fav. Just to change it up. It should be no shock to learn that my LEAST favorite performance was Adam. Yes I know, surprise, surprise. But last night seriously took the cake for me. I mean he can actually sing, so why then did he do the most hanious rendition of a big band song that you could do. I seriously felt like I was watching a drag queen cabaret. I don't want dinner theater, I want a good concert. And did anyone else notice that he was last AGAIN! Just plays into my rigged theory. Last night during the first 2 contestants songs I also thought Simon was rigging it towards Adam conclusively, except for he actually gave my Matt a few props.
Alrighty, my next least favorite :-) was sadly Danny Gokey. I thought he really rocked it out in the ending of the that song. But I wish that the entire performance was that good. I kind of felt bored during his song. And also scared at the fact that I felt the orchestra was eating him up with the accompaniment. Don't get me wrong, still love'em, but I thought he wasn't that hot dawgs.
Next up is Allison. I thought she did an overall awesome job. I don't know what Simon was talking about with her "lack of confidence." Ummm...I think you need confidence to have fire engine red died hair! Plus I thought she looked really pretty. I was proud of her!
Actually for first place I have a tie. Because of course I always love Matt and usually hate Kris, but I thought that Kris was REALLY good last night. I agree with the judges though that he probably doesn't have the "star" power to win, but he was a really good singer. Again, I was likin him because he had a lack of guitar, which is a good thing for him. His talented but in a touring college campuses type of way. Of course I LOVED Matt last night and totally thought it was his genre type of night. It wasn't my favorite choice of song, but I thought that he sang it really well and it showed his sultryness. He is da bomb!
So final thoughts...did anyone else walk away from last nights show thinking there wasn't a clear tanker like there usually is? I pretty much feel like this years top 5 all have a great talent. Yes, some are WAY more annoying then others, but there is no one just clearly crappy. Bottom line.. PLEASE America, see through Adam's annoyingness and don't give him a record deal. Let him run off and fend for himself on Broadway.

Kid Kuties

My sister does a segment on her blog that is called "Mouths of babes" I like it, but thought I would change the title so that I'm not totally steeling her thunder. I just had to share a comment Maren made this morning that I thought was too funny. I was wrangling with Will (which if you know him and me is a pretty much CONSTANT occurence) to get him into his care seat. He now likes to unbuckle the seat belt so that the car seat is not attached to the car in anyway. He is still in his 5 point harness, but I suppose if there was accident it wouldn't do us much good as he would fly like a football through the window. UGH! So, as I'm re attaching the car seat for the millioneth time, I'm thinking that I am doing it with a lot of niceness actually. Maren looks over at me and says "I think it would be easier if you went to work and Dad stayed home." Hmm.... not sure how to feel about that statement. But I asked her if she would rather have dad home instead of mom taking care of her. She said "well I like being with Mom better, but I think it would be easier for everyone if dad just stayed home instaed." What to think? Not sure. But, you gotta love it!

AI - Week 7

So why do they pick nights like "Disco Night" on AI? Isn't it just setting up like 90% of the contestants to fail? Unless you really knock out an awesome classic. Unfortunately last night Lil didn't. She wasn't good dawgs. I wanted her to be good but I totally thought that she was off key and she was singing way to fast. Also, WHAT was with the unitard or jumper or whatever she had on??? That wasn't good unless you are a super model. And as I predicted they have AGAIN lengthened her hair. Lil needs to go so she can save her soul from AI! I miss who you used to be Lil!
Okay so Kris was okay. I felt like really his arrangement could have been plugged into about 50 different songs. So why "She Works Hard for the Money"??? Very interesting choice! And of course again he was back with his old John Mayer ways. DROP the guitar and the mimicing act Kris!! He is much better without it. Or he can have the guitar if he can retrain his facial movements and dancing when he holds it. UGH!
Danny Gokey was awesome! I love everything he does anyone. But he was really good last night. Can I say though, I think I like him better without glasses?? Keep on keepin on Danny!
Oh no, I didn't like Allison last night. WHAT was with that song choice??? Does she even know what "hot stuff" is??? And it was like she got Heart to rewrite that version for her. And we all know how much I love Heart. Songs like that are the kiss of death for me. She is talented though.
I DO NOT get the glory that is thrown out there by the judges to Adam Lambert. SERIOUSLY!! When they show Kara watching him it is as if she is in complete and utter awe of him. Okay he can sing, albeit, it is annoying. But he is not the most awesome thing to ever hit the stage. Just cause he has more sass then anyone else doesn't mean people will buy his records. I thought his song last night was easy listening FM 100 at best except for on certain notes when he goes Axel Rose on us. I didn't "connect" to him as Paula would say on any level. And who else was annoyed with Paula's "predictions" about who will be in the finals. Except I think she has pretty much said it to everyone at this point.
I love Matt last night! I thought he totally redeemed himself. And honestly I thought he was the best of the night. The song is a cheesy disco song, but I liked his arrangement. And I liked his dancing skills! We have a hot one in the house baby!!!
Poor Anoop, I think that Simon is right and that was the end of the road. Was anyone else laughing at his upper lip issue? I THINK he was growing a moustache... And the pink vest.. oh boy! He was a hot mess last night! I think he missed more notes than he hit. Poor guy.
Well I voted last night for at least an hour for Matt, although Matthew wanted me to stay up until 3 am. Don't tell him! So he better be saved dang it!

AI Week 6

So last night was interesting doing movie soundtracks. I like it! But with all the movies in all the world I am always shocked about what they pick! What is up with some of the song choices! Although, who else can agree with me, I am sick of Randy talking about song choice. He and Kara are sounding like a broken record now. Anyway, let's start with Allison. I thought she was really good! Even Will stopped playing with a ball and was mesmorized with her, and that is saying something! I thought it was a perfect song for her. The only thing that I wanted differently was for it to maybe be in in a higher key. I wanted her to hit some loud high notes but she didn't. I also thought it was really cool that she had the whole orchestra. Lovin it!
Okay Anoop has really shocked me! He has now come from the bottom of my list to be towards the top of my list. I just think he is a classy guy with some real talent. I loved that he sang that Bryan Adams song last night. Really when he does the slower stuff, which I am usually not loving in general, he does a really good job. I think he may be one of the best singers in the competition. But I think he is flying way low under the radar.
Okay my Matt last night was not at his best. But I still really liked it. He did have a couple of pitch problems, but I wasn't so against the song like Randy and Kara were. I thought that he did an overall really good job. And that dude is WAY talented on the piano. Not to mention pretty cute. ;-)
Who else loves the fact that Danny Gokey sings all those love songs to his dead wife? I mean really, every time I just want to break down in tears cause I think he is so sweet. I really hate "Endless Love" but the way he sang it made it good. So if you can do that with that song, you should probably stay around another week. Also I just love the sound of his voice, super sultry!
Oh Adam....from one week to the next you bug me more!! Really I did not get last night at all. And I totally agreed with Simon, it was like he was singing in the Rocky Horror Picture show and he is the horror! Out of all the modern movies in the world he picks "Born to be Wild" WHAT THE??? He could have picked something really cool. And if I have to watch him to his "try to be sexy" tiger walk (where he crouches and slinks across the stage) one more week I will scream!! It is very sad to watch a gay man try to act like what he thinks a straight woman would think was sexy. Cause it isn't!!! And I am really sick of his screaming!! PLEASE can't we just get him in a broadway show or anything besides American Idol and mainstream culture. Ugh! Can you tell I'm sick of him??
Okay last night Kris actually rose in the ranks for me. I LOVE that song that he has picked! It is somewhat unknown, but if you have any music sense at all you have loved it since it was nominated for an oscar a year ago...HELLO RANDY! He did an AWESOME job on it! And he didn't have a guitar so he wasn't being a pseudo Jon Mayer last night. He did still bother me with his facial expressions. And for some reason now his wife bothers me too. But that is another post. Anyway, just the fact that he had the guts to do that song and do it SUPER well, writes off all the annoying qualities that he has had for me. I thought he was the best of the night!
Lil...oh poor Lil. WHY OH WHY does that girl not know any songs after 1975? I really don't get it?? To pick "The Rose" is the ultimate KISS OF DEATH! And why does her hair extensions get longer every week? Pretty soon we won't even recognize her whatsoever. I feel bad because American Idol has stolen her soul. The poor girl is talented, but maybe just in her church choir back at home. She just seems way out of her league in the competition. I seriously don't know of ONE person who likes the song "The Rose". Seriously!!!! I'm hoping she is gone cause I can't bear for Matt to leave yet. Can hardly wait to see who it is this week because it could go many ways. Actually really I'm hoping it is Adam, but I know it won't be because his EMO's probably cry and listen to his music all night while they vote.

Happy Big 4-0

I just have to wish a big happy birthday to my sweet hubby Dave! He turned the big 4-0 this year. For his bday we got to go to Washington, DC and just returned the other day. I'll have to post details about that later. But I just had to say how much I love him and how lucky I am to be with him. I can't imagine my life without him. He has changed me in so many ways for the better. I am a better person because of him. We are perfect for each other and I love him so much. He is an awesome dad and an awesome friend. He is so funny, smart and kind. Really he is the best!!! I love you Dave!!

AI Week 5

I must admit that tonight I did not see the first 2 contestants so I can't fully comment on their status except for what I saw at the recap. We had to go out for Dave's bday dinner with the kids-darn it!!;-) And also just as a side note, thank goodness Megan is gone right?? I missed the kick off show from last week, but I have seen clips and looked like she was pretty much going a little crazy there at the end. Interesting....
So from last night I missed Danny and Kris. Maybe someone can fill me in on how they did. From the looks of it, from the end clips, Kris was probably going to annoy me again because he was playing the guitar and pretending to be Jon Mayer. But usually I love Danny so hopefully he did well.
To me Scott wasn't his usual badness at the beginning of his performance. But when he went to the high notes ooo wee.. That was a bit scarey. And VERY off! And does anyone else notice that this season Paula is unusally mean? Do you think that she is trying to compete with Kara or is her true self coming out. Or maybe she is off her medication?? Hmm..
Lil was good I thought. I thought she was a lot better than the judges gave her credit last night. Or maybe it was just because Dave and I were belting out "What's Love Got to Do With it" along with her and couldn't really hear. Either way, Lil is much better than a few of them still in so she should stay. Didn't you love how they interviewed her mom and she was "Her name isn't Little" LOL And then Simon continued to call her Little for the rest of the night.
I just love Matt! Yes he is the bomb!! How can he take a song I totally hate like "Part Time Lover" and make me actually love it. He did an awesome job I thought. He is in my dawg pound dudes!!
I thought Anoop did well. He has surpirsed me with his singing skills. And when he is not trying to be Usher he does a lot better. I didn't want to boo him off the stage tonight at least. Anoop, stay far away from the R&B and stick to the white boy music.
Allison was great as usual. I did think that her song was a bit old for her, but vocally it was a good choice. The melody really seems to fit her.
Okay, after last night I am fully convinced that they are trying to rig the show in Adam's favor. Seriously!! How many times does that guy go last!? Last is probably the best position to be in because people remember you. And then for Simon to say "standing O" What the....??? I thought that was probably his worst performance yet. If that can be possible! But did Simon not hear him hit some REALLY bad notes?? And I'm sorry this might a offend quite a few but that song was REALLY just too femmy for me (you know for a MAN to be singing) I like a good falsetto and it can sometimes be cute, but that was just like a woman singing last night. I did not dig it DAWGS!!!! And don't try to tell me you just hate the song... cause I love that song! And I love Tears for Fears. But really that just bothered me beyond words. And then for Simon to give it so much praise when it really didn't deserve it, I felt was just rigging the show. Really, if this continues, I may just have to have a one night boycott. ;-) Adam is talented and everything, but so are all the others, he is not a musical genius! Argh!!!
(okay now I'm off my soap box! Let's see who goes tonight *evil laughter*)

AI Week 4

Okay dawgs, there was pretty much only one totally standout performance for me tonight and that was Danny Gokey. I seriously got the chills when he sang. Like he is totally feeling it from my soul. I remember that song was out when my Mom died and I could totally relate to it with a death. I always thought there was so much more to say to my Mom than I did. And maybe he was thinking the same thing. Really he is totally awesome! Anyway, just had to get that out of the way up front. First off starting with Anoop....oh boy. VERY interesting! We are back to our wannabe Anoop now and not just our singer boy. It kind of cracked me up the amount of facial intensity he puts into it. My favorite line of the night though is that he wants to be an R&B artist! Hilarious! Oh Anoop..please sing something else besides My Perogative and Usher. We are NOT feeling it!
Megan Joy just pretty much needs to go. I think I'm feeling her vibe now with the outfit and the song...I think she may be in that drum circle in Liberty Park. I should have figured it from the sleeve tattoo. But that reminded me of when last year Jason Castro sang "I Shot the Sheriff". Although he was at least a bit believeable with the dread locks. Boy she has gone way down hill. Plus she should just be gone cause she couldn't sustain a career I don't think.
Allison once again rocked the house. I loved her opening with the guitar and kind of broken down. Very nice. Once I got past her hair then I could enjoy it. She is just SOO talented!
Scott, oh man, again with the stylist...please don't do weird things to him just because he can't see. His hair was atrocious! Seriously! And the song was his best song choice yet, but I mean what do you expect from him. I still find his singing totally annoying. But I think he deserves to stay in more than Megan.
Poor Lil. I just felt so sorry for her. How come she can't get it right with the song choices. She is such a good singer! But she has no clue on what type of stuff to pick. She also has no clue on dressing. I feel sad cause they have sucked out all her original spunk. And her hair needs to go. Honestly I felt like crying with her. Because she just can't get it right.
Alright I have to admit that tonight with Matt was not my favorite. I really didn't get the whole key board in a mosh pit routine. And he sounded weird with the song. But you know I still love him!! He is still way talented. But he did indeed disappoint tonight. Oh well, we can all have an off night sometimes.
Adam, what was with the hair??? Okay not that I like his "normal" hair do any better but with that hair it just looks like a helmet. And it went for the song choice last week, but not this week. It was like someone said "hey that looks good for your Motown night" to him and now he will repeat it week after week. Bugs! And his song bugged me and he bugged me. I actually had to fast forward through his final note because it was so annoying and high and screamy. I"m a rocker girl at heart, but not his type of rocker girl. Did it not seem to anyone else like he was in the middle of his own personal musical? Not feelin it dawgs!
And I also have to admit tonight that Kris was actually good. I like him MUCH better without the guitar. And I'm pleased to see that he is multi-talented with the piano. He actually sounded good even though he still bugged me with his facial experessions. Oh well. He was one of the betters of the evening.

AI Week 3

I know, for all my die hard fans out there, I am late on my posting. But hey, better late than never. Life took precedence this week. I was pysched for the theme this weke on AI because I thought there may actually be some good music on. I was not disappointed!
First up was my #1 lover, Matt Giraud...needless to say, he was awesome! And what better song for him to sing. The only thing is, that I wanted him to do the whole thing on the piano, but he was still really good. Don't worry, I voted for at least a 1/2 hour. lol
Next up Kris, and yes he still bothers me. Doesn't it bother anyone else that he is totally mimicing Jon Mayer?? Why can't America see that. I actually dislike him even more when he does the guitar, because then it is really obvious. And I'm not sure what the USO outfit was about...interesting.
Now I'm probably getting the order wrong here, but bear with me. Anoop dawg...don't you love how his name goes with just about anything like what Ryan demonstrated last night and Randy always does. Anyway, he has redeemed himself for me dawgs. I actually hope he doesn't pick up the pass like Randy told him to, because he has been his best when he has been slow and mellow. I usually don't like music like that, but he proved that he is a good singer. I'm likin him lately.
Scott MacIntyre oh no. Not sure what to do about that guy. I couldn't believe that someone ACTUALLY told him he had pink pants on and he wouldn't rather have gone out in his boxers. They are pretty much being cruel to him with those outfits. And the song was not good peeps. He didn't sound good at all. I actually found his voice really annoying. I think the key may have been to high for him. The arrangement was cool for me, but the singing has to go. I'm sad, cause he is a neat guy, but the singing really lacks!
Okay Megan Joy, who suddenly has a name change btw. I guess she decided to drop the dorky ex-husbands name before she became famous. She is such a pretty girl. Can't we get her on America's Next Top Model instead? At least she moved around tonight, but her singing was also not good dawgs. And I still find myself having to remind myself to breathe when she is finished. SHe makes me nervous.
Adam Lambert, okay okay, not as bad as last week and actually he was good. I hate to say it and have to eat all my past hate. I still don't want him to win, but I thought he did a good job last night. Let's just see how long he can keep up the clean boy act for America. At least now we know he has a good agent or something that is tell him to tone it down a notch until he can win the competition.
Michael, well I guess I didn't notice how bad he was because me and my kids had fun dancing to his song. I know he isn't good, but it was fun. He is in over his head at this point though.
I didn't think Lil was as bad as the judges did. But it was just ehhh for me. Not good and not bad. The thing that I will say is bad is whoever put that wig on her head should get fired! She looked terrible with that! She should stick to her own hair in the future.
Totally loved Danny! I did think his performance was a bit corny, but he is such a good singer with a lot of soul. You can just tell he enjoys it.
Allison was the bomb last night! She is such an awesome singer! Really how come some people are just born with it and some aren't. I'm jealous. But she deserves to do something with that voice whether she wins or not. She is awesome!

AI Week 2

I'm not really sure what I think of the new format for AI with the judges being able to "save" people. Doesn't this entirely throw off the whole premise for the show which is that America decides? Like they don't trust our judgement? Fortunately last week our judgement was correct with Jasmine and Jorge going. Thank goodness the oh so superior judges did not over ride us!
It's always interesting on country week. For some people it is the bomb diggity, and for some it is the kiss of death. Fortunately this time around it mostly was a good thing for people. Starting off with Michael, I think they thought it was their biggest country contestant that they could throw at us. Unfortunately, where he should of soared I think he sunk. Really Michael is just out of his league and pretty boring. Not even country was his thang.
Next up was Allison. I totally thought that she rocked it! Really tonight she did prove that she could sing anything. I was shocked that she even did well on country week. But she was one of the better performances tonight.
Kris Allen, again, he got a tivo gong from me. Something about him just really bothers me. I was trying to figure it out tonight. I think for 1 he just oozes with cheesiness. And then secondly I think he is the type of guy who in his small circle of friends and family is the "hot" one. So he thinks he is the hot one. And goes out there like he is the most beautiful hot singer you ever saw. And he just isn't. At least tonight he was not impersonating Jon Mayer.
I thought Lil did okay. At least she was dressed better this week. And what was with Simon calling her "Little" LOL. Doesn't he think Lil could be short for Lily or Lillian? She is a good singer though, in general she is one of my faves.
Scott is the winner for best composer. His arrangements are great but really he is lacking in the singing skills. I know we need to vote for him cause he is a good guy and all, but I think that he would be better served getting the boot and working for the producers of AI helping the music crew make better song arrangements.
Alexis is a cute little gal with a good voice. But I think that she is just generally out of her league. I find myself nervous while she is singing because I'm not sure that she is as good as the others. But she should stay in cause she has potential. Not to mention a cool pink streak in her hair. Gotta love the gumption.
Anoop actually proved himself tonight. I could never get past "my perogative" to know if he was ever good at singing! Tonight he showed the world that he isn't just a wannabe but an actual great singer! I was really proud of him. Cause I like him and I thought for once he was acting like himself, rather than a guy who wants to be a rocker.
This was my least favorite of Danny's performances. I like him tons but he didn't really rock it out for me dawgs. He was just okay. He was super shakey in the beginning and not even as powerful as I wanted him to be in the chorus. Sorry but he can't touch Carry Underwood on that song. Still love you though Danny!
Megan...hmm.... she is so intersting. I think you either love her or hate her. Either way though, doesn't she make you EXTREMELY uncomfortable when you watch her!! I want her to take a serious valium before she goes out. She looks so free loving and adventerous, but really I think she is scared to death! I like her general sound if I didn't have to watch her. She was much better tonight than last week. But her dress HAS TO GO!!! Especially the necklace draping down into her unbra-ed bossoms. I was really hating watching her! Please someone in wardrobe help her!! *Note to all those who don't live in Sandy, Utah..this is not how we normally dress!
Matt is still the front runner for me. He has it all! You can just tell he is danged talented! Plus he is actually cute and unlike Kris, has some humility about him. AND he plays the piano!! I'm lovin it!
So...I saved the worst for last tonight...ADAM!! What in the....???? He is back to annoy us for yet another week. My favorite part was watching Randy Travis watch him! CLASSIC! You could see on his face he was thinking what the rest of America was screaming at the tv. That was just scarey! Maren at one point turned to me and said "Mom, he is acting like a girl right?" I found this very poignant and funny at the same time. Let me tell you a bit of trivia from a girl perhaps who maybe watches to much reality television. OR maybe I should say, tonight I discovered I watch too much reality singing shows. BECAUSE when I watched Adam it brought me back to the summer of 2007 when Dave and I faithfully viewed a small tv show called Rockstar Supernova. It's the same thing as AI but only rocked out. And actually a better show. To bad it got canceled after that. ANYWAY, watching Adam tonight reminded us of a great performance on this show by Dilana of none other than.. Ring of Fire. Which was the SAME THING that Adam attempted, only it was done much much better and by a freakier person who is actually probably freaky and a rocker and not just pretending to be such. Check it out if you want to see it :
http://video.yahoo.com/watch/143224/712059
(To view this copy and paste the link)
I love when people go on AI and think they are "oh so original" when really they don't know that weirdos like me remember ever performance from reality music shows. lol
PLEASE could we anti-vote this week for Adam? Unfortunately with the new rule change ALL of America would just be over-rided by Randy and Kara Laguardia...ugh!

I'm Lovin It

So why do I like American Idol so much? I guess it is a good wholesome distraction of everyday life and being a mother. It reminds me of my Mom and sisters hanging out critiquing the funniness and loving it. My Mom even use to vote which I think is awesome. Yes I love American Idol, it rocks! I'm super excited for the final 13 and because my tivo crapped out last week, I actually missed Anoop and Matt getting in. But Dave saw the end (supposedly) and told me Anoop was the one that made it. We can no longer trust Dave's information solely when American Idol is at stake. I found out later that Matt was also in which is a darn good thing!

So tonight was overall not as bad as I thought it would be from some. But still, plenty of good tv watching. I also have to say that overall I love ALL of Simon's comments. I almost always totally agree. I usually say the same thing to Dave before Simon gets on, only he says it better and more to the point. Gotta love it!

First off I have to say that I was loving Michael Jackson week. I have to admit I am a fan. But I have to clarify that I am a fan of the "normal" Michael back in the day of Thriller. Why or why couldn't he have stayed that way?? I remember walking to Kmart and buying the Thriller album. For some reason my Mom let me cross Foothill right off the freeway by just dodging the traffic and not going to a stop light or anything at age 10 or so to get to Kmart. But hey, that's part of the adventure and growing up in the 70's/80's. And getting Michael's "Thriller" was worth it. I even had an awesome friend Melissa who ACTUALLY (and I hope she somehow saved this) had a Michael Jackson Barbie. It was the bomb!! I use to go over to her house just to play with it. Lucky!

Starting off with Lil, I was disappointed. She wasn't her usual goodness to me. And I had to agree with Simon the outfit was terrible. What was the "glam squad" thinking?? The white pants that peg at the leg are never a good idea. Does this remind anyone else of jr. high? So, hopefully she will stick around because usually I like her much better.

Forgive me if I get the order wrong here, but next I'll talk about Michael. Not much to say really. I think he can't ever make it in a population of tiny boppers voting (and a 34 year old wannabe). Dave and I also noticed tonight that he is a "side singer". We have previously found those in life who are "side talkers" but now we also hate a new set of people on AI who are "side singers". That means that you talk/or sing with only one side of your mouth will kind of trying to smile/or look sexy. Really bugs us! The only good thing I can say about Michael is that I'm sure all his singing is natural talent that he has never been trained at all. So that's a cool thing!

Jasmine, she just bugs me and I hope we can really move on from her soon. She really does act like a robot. Kris Allen also bugged me. He is trying WAY to hard to be John Mayer. I just can't stand someone who has studied some other singer so much that they are sounding like them and doing their exact moves/facial expressions. Bugs! And also, he is a side singer, 2nd strike for him!

Danny Gokey was awesome as usual. I thought he rocked the house. He may have been one of the best of the night. That guy is just plain talented. And how can you not love PYT! Did anyone else notice though when Paula dances she is off beat? Interesting to watch, she has some troubles.

Allison also rocked the house. She is my kind of chic. And she is not so scary and jaded as our rocker chic friend from last year. She really really can sing. I thought her song choice was really good too. Pretty cool for a 16 year old to be that talented.

Oh no Jorge, it wasn't good dawg. Didn't he remind you of some bad 70's movie that plays on Saturday afternoon, when no one should be watching tv, and it makes you turn off the tv and read a book instead of watching it. It was just not not good at all. His singing is okay but he has a whacked sense of good music I think.

Scott is an incredible guy. I am totally in awe of his piano talents and how he is even learning that music in a week by ear! That is just plain incredible. I just think he is an awesome, humble, incredible human being. BUT, the singing is not the best dog. I really want this guy to be like a composer for movies, or write a broadway play or something. I would love to see more of him though, but don't think that he can win it, except for he should because he is overall amazing.

Megan, dear Sandy, Utah neighbor, I think you are beautiful. I think that your voice can be really cool if I was listening to it on the radio. But I think you are awkward to watch/dance or whatever you are doing. And I think that picking "Rockin Robin" could be a very detrimental choice. Although, once again, my kids really dig it.

Anoop needs to ashoop off of the AI stage. This guy drives me nuts! While I respect him for his tenacity to sing "My Prerogative" about 300 times in the competition trying to sing "Beat It" was total suicide. He reminds me of a guy who really really really wants to be a rocker, but just ain't. Someone like Kenny Loggins who tries to rock it out with "Footloose" (which really isn't rockin out) but then ends up also singing "Pooh Corner". He really needs to go.

Adam, I'm just not sure I'm "gettin it" with Adam. Yes, I know he dresses super "hot" for the young ladies and even has his eyeliner. And I think he really rocks it out, but he seems so canned. Like the whole thing is choreographed to the hilt. Every move, wink, expression, bang/hair toss. I reserve my full judgement for him in the coming weeks, but I'm just not sure I get it. I think he has talent, but what kind, is the question.....

Matt, Matt, Matt, I love ya! He is definitely the front runner for me. He is even better with the piano this week. I was lovin it! To me he has it all, talent, looks, taste in music etc. Please keep him on! (You know I voted for him peeps, about 15 times! Probably not enough but hey, I had to come down here and write this post)

Alexis was pretty good. I kind of dig her style. I actually thought that she had the best song choice for her for the night. I forgot how much I loved that song AND watching the MTV video with my big sis Amy. I don't think she blew it out of the water but I thought it had good moments and she is definitely on the right track for her voice.

Ooo can hardly wait for whats to come. When they said tonight there are 10 more weeks I was like YESSSSSSSSSSSS!!!! 10 weeks of bliss!

Thoughts

Mom-
I truly miss you so much today. In your honor we went out and ate a nice Hire's Big H. It was awesome! How thankful I am for these truly amazing friends you created for me, my siblings. Mom, I have been thinking so much about you lately, what you went through, what you experienced, what you are experiencing now. I hope you know that I think of you DAILY. In the last 2 years I have never had one single day where I don't try to picture you in your khaki pants, your voice, your smell, your smile. Everything about you. I have learned so much in the last 2 years. While most of the lessons have been truly hard ones. I have also become a better person from them. I don't know why some families have to experience the things we have, but I also know that Heavenly Father has a reason and a purpose for all of it. I know that he has a plan for every one of us. I have been thinking so much of life and death lately and again why do we come down to earth to love each other and build such strong bonds just to leave each other and have to morn. And then I come to realize that if we didn't have this incentive, trying to get back to those we love, we would never try to live a good life. If we didn't yearn to all be back together again, we would never try to do our best while you were gone. How thankful I am to know where I came from, know where I am going and to know where you are too Mom. The greatest gift that you could have ever given me was to know that I was a daughter of God and to start my testimony with taking me to Church and showing me by your example how to live a good life. I will miss you every day that we are apart. So funny how when life gets truly hard the only person you ever want is your Mom. I hope that even though you aren't here, that somehow you are watching over me on those days. And I only hope I can be the kind of Mom that you were to me, to my children. Love you always.
Margaret

Finally the Final (Spoilers)

So I was stoked about last nights finalists, although I was sad about Joy'not. I thought he was good dawgs! I thought tonight's group was pretty good and pretty much who I thought they would bring back. Although haven't we heard ENOUGH Of Von Smith and Tatiana to last a lifetime? Wasn't Tatiana totally weird with her new found accent? I truly worry about that girl. Yikes! I was super excited about Megan making through...props to Sandy dawgs! And also Anoop. You have gotta love a guy that looks like he studies 24/7 from your Math 101 class who sings "My Porogative" and makes it! Love it! BUT.... I am super sad about Matt. He was the bomb dawgs! And I thought he was probably one of the most talented singers this season. So I will sorely miss him. And Jasmine, I have already had enough of. Ugh! I don't get singing Disney songs in an AI competition. Except Maren really did like it. Anyway, you win some you loose some. Here comes the fun part with the final 12 and I'm lovin it!
*Add on here...Apparently Matt Giraud did make into the top 13 but I have no idea how. Darn TIVO!!! And I had no idea they were having 13 and not 12. So I guess I'll catch up this week. But still, I'm psyched he is there. I'll be voting for him!

AI and Ramblings ....

Oh AI, you gotta love it. ACtually tonight I though there were more good than bad. But oh, when they are bad, they are really bad. Alex Wagner hyphen something, seems like the nicest guy. The type of guy you just want to hang with all the time. I could see us being good friends. But, his singing was so scarey! lol I was not loving his Elton John. AGAIN, where do these 20 somethings come up with these weird old songs!!!!! I don't get it?? Did they think they were big hits at the time? Cause most of them I hated the first time they were out. Ariana Afsar, just bad bad bad, and what a poor song choice "The Winner Takes it All". lol VERY VERY risky on a contest show. Felicia Barton, she seemed pretty good, but I very forgetable, she just kind of blends in. Jorge Nunez, I'm likin him. Love his latin vibe. Ju'Not Joyner was actually the best for me tonight dawgs. He really nailed it in my opinion. I hated really thought much of him before that. But he did a great job! Kendall Beard...hmmm...don't think much. Kristen MacNamara, I thought she was good but probably not good enough to move on. Lil Rounds, AWESOME!!! Did anyone else notice though how Kara laguardia started using ebonics when talking with her. Very funny and actually, I don't think PC. lol But I also have to say Randy did the same thing, although for some reason much more PC when he does it. Nathanial Marshall should just be kept around for pure humor/entertainment value. I would terribly miss his headbands if he went away. I mean, also singing Meatloaf, you can't get much funnier than that! And I LOVED Simon's line after he sang, classic! Scott MacIntyre, I really like. I don't think he is the best singer, but gosh he is just an awesome human being. So he should be kept on just for that. Taylor V. sorry, but I thought she failed Utah for us tonight dawgs. I don't think she put Hurricane on the map. She is a okay singer, but not good enough to win anything. I think she ought to stick to road shows. Von Smith...PLEASE go! He annoys me pretty good. I think he reminds me a 12 year old boy who likes to sing for his mom that thinks he is an awesome singer, but annoys everyone else with his lack of talent. Anyway, I'm hoping he will be gone.

And while we are on the topic of reality shows... I just have to say... raise your hand if you want to SLAP THE BACHELOR OUT OF THE TELEVSION SET!!! I have now without a doubt decided that The Bachelor is a made up, phoney, money making, machine run by the devil in order for us to give up our Monday nights wasting time caring about Jason and who he picks. Just to be bamboozeled into watching and giving up 2 more hours of my nights watching AFTER THE ROSE to see why he dumped such a cute girl to be with an annoying girl all on NATIONAL TV. Where obviously all such break ups in 2009 should occur. What a jerk!!!! I have officially banned The Bachelor in my home. It is now the show that remains nameless and shall not be spoken in my house along with the Macaroni Grill and Su Casa which are banned for other reasons (like think stomach flu). But The Bachelor gave me a flu just as bad for wasting too many hours of my life!!

Harsh Reality

Sorry to my devoted blog followers that I never got around to posting my thoughts on last weeks AI 12. Boy, does motherhood get in the way sometimes of important
things;-). I had some deep thoughts on it too. But, I did think that the correct choices were made and I look forward to seeing all those 3 go farther. This week, I actually have some time to write and share my love of AI with my devoted blog fans! Anyway, tonights show was interesting becasue there were so few good singers on it. Aren't you really shocked why they even put some people through. Sometimes I wonder if the judges even paid attention during Hollywood week. I can't fully remember the order they went in tonight, so bear with me. Allison Iraheta, besides the fact that she has a really hard to remember last name did really well. Raise your hand if you believe that she is 16 though! How does a 16 year old get a voice like that. She has a good singing voice, but in general her voice is that of a 60 year old lady working at Walmart. Anyway, I didn't remember her at all from Hollywood week and I thought that she was pretty much one of the top few singers of the night. Generally I want to automatically kick off anyone that sings Heart, but I'll give her a pass for tonight. Adam Lambert, sorry but Simon said you would either love it or hate it...I hated it!! He bothers me so much! He is WAY to pretty! His look is somewhere between a soap opera star (and I should know lol) or someone who is in Cats with the costume already on. I just really don't get it. I'm sure he'll make it through, but come on.... Robert Pattison he is not!! Jasmine Murray, I liked her better in all the lead up audtions, but she did not do well tonight dawg! I still hope she makes it through, cause I think she does have talent. Did anyone else think that the microphone was really weird tonight? EVERYONE pretty much sounded kareoke. Jeanine Vailes..don't know who you are...never seen you...wish I never saw you...goodbye! Jesse Langseth, come on girl, really Bette Davis Eyes is THE BEST song ever written!!! YIKES!! She was okay for me dawg. Better than I thought she would be. Kai Kalama, I want him to be good, but I just don't think he is. I don't think his good looks and hair and nice personality can sail him through this round. Kris Allen, why oh why did he sing Michael Jackson, kiss of death! He get what I call the dreaded "tivo gong", where I fast forwarded through the majority of your performance. I can't actually believe that this "kids" pick these songs! They just seem so out there and old! I have to start thinking what i would sing if I had one chance to bealt it on American Idol. I know that it wouldn't be Man in the Mirror. Matt Brietzke, seems like a good guy, but I can't see him making it through. He seems like a pretty good singer too, but he just looks to much like a dad for pre-teen girls (or 34 year old wannabe pre-teen girl) would vote for him. Matt Giraud, in addition to his wonderful name choice ;-), I really like this guy. He didn't nail it, but I'm hoping he gets a second chance cause I think he is awesome. I didn't hate his song as much as the judges did, but he is much better when he has his piano. Megan Corkery, hey she is putting Sandy, Utah on the map! I think she is such a pretty girl and and a good singer. I'm hoping she keeps going on as well. Mishovanna Henson...have you ever seen someone take Drops of Jupiter SOOOO seriously!! I mean what is that song even about? You would thought she was singing Wind Beneath My Wings! Please, put her and us out of her future misery and don't vote for her. Nick Mitchell/Norman Gentle (which by the way I think he should stick with the Normal Gentle name), is sadly a good singer, but no one can take him seriously. I mean, I know that is the point, but what is he doing in the competition. Why did the judges EVER put him through. Yes, he is entertaining, but shouldn't he be in a one man act or something like that. Or even performing at bday parties. I just don't get it. Also, I have to add, that Kara in the beginning bothered me big time. Now that I have watched her more though, I feel that she says some good things and she actually gives the performers some constructive criticism. I do think she is honest with her critiques and actually adds to the show, unlike our dear friend Paula. Although you have to admit you tune in just a little bit to see one of Paula's train wrecks. Also have to add, diggin' Randy's watch...it's a hot one dawgs!!!!
http://www.americanidol.com/top_36/group_2

Top 36 AI

So what do you all think? http://www.americanidol.com/top_36/ I really have to say there a few in the top 36 that I just think what the...??? I don't get some like Nick Mitchell (I think they just threw him in there for spice) and Tatiana Del Toro, same with her. But really putting her in just scares me because of her already inflated ego! I also don't get Nathaniel Marshall or Von Smith, both who annoy me. Really the list could also go on of people who they enver showed over the course of the try outs and now have made it like: Jesse Langseth and Allison Iraheta. I do have some top picks but we will see as the show goes on. But this is the part where Idol really picks up and I start to love it even more! Can't wait!

My Guitar Heros

Came down the stairs to find this with all my boys. Love it!

My Steelers Fans

Good thing that they won or I would have several people at my house crying!! It was a good game though!

GO STEELERS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SLC

Just want to add on a couple short comments like .... SHOUT OUT TO RIVERTON HIGH in honor of my nephews! And also, what is with the Somoan girl whose parents moved her to HURRICANE, UTAH to get noticed for her talent!?? HUH?? Catch my drift here! I think you would get more noticed staying in Somoa. But not just that I couldn't believe that Randy said she was the best of the night. Sometimes I'm thinking Randy is def. She was okay but, someone wasn't likin it.. and that was me!

So What Do You Think?

Thoughts on AI? I think there are quite a few VERY interesting folks going on this year. Really mostly I laugh watching this show but sometimes I'm feeling really bad for the contestants, when you can tell that they really think they are good. Cause I can honestly sympathize. I really think I'm a good singer until we play Guitar hero and I'm the singer and the microphone is hooked up to the tv and amplifying, boy do I not sound good!! So I guess I'll stick to the shower or to group singing situtations because I really do love to sing. The only thing I think is extra harsh when the judges really harp on the young kids who are like 16 or so. Do we really need to rip apart a sophomore in high school? Now if they are 29 and are still thinking they are a good singer when they are not, then you can rip them to shreds for all I care and tell them to get a decent day job. I'm getting more and more excited as I see those going through to Hollywood. I'm thinking this is going to be a good season. And if you watched last night one of my early favs is a girl named Ann Marie, I thought she was good. Now, about Kara....what think ye? (Except for Briar, we know what you think!) Do you like her or not. I'll save my opinion so I can get real answers from you all. Should be interesting to see if this is her one and only stint on American Idol or not. Are they phasing out Paula?? Has anyone noticed that all seem to have to talk a lot more to get a word in or they are left out with 4 judges? Let me know what you think below. Oh and one of my favorites for the season appeared last night...George. He was awesome! They asked him his greatest wish in life and he said "to have a simple house with nice floors, like marble" Don't you just love it! This should be everyone's wildest dream, I know it's mine! Please to enjoy him below. And keep enjoying the watching!

Are you ready to RUMBLE!!!??

So get your tivos, DVR's, VCR's whatever ready cause it is time again for American Idol!! Yes, I am very excited. The promos alone have got me salivating for some great moments ahead. But...what is with the new lady on AI? Is it cause Paula proved to have one to many breakdowns last year? I'm a little concerned about adding fresh blood. We shall see.... Oh, to hear the bad songs, voices, to see the tongue rings and over confidence. These are the things I look forward to on the first few weeks of Idol. So get ready, Tuesday night!! I'm looking forward to a weekly post, but maybe not until we get the final few in there. Unless there is something that I just can't pass up commenting about, which I'm sure there will be. So get ready!! YAY!!!!

Happenings

Wow, I can't believe how long it has been since I last posted. Guess I was busy this month!? Really nothing too exciting except that I just had A LOT to do!! You know the usual stuff, shopping, cleaning, decorating, primary (oh got put as Primary Pres. Seems to run in the family, Annie just got put in as her Primary Pres and Mary is the 1st counselor in her Primary Pres. Whose next?? lol), and Christmas parties and adventures. Anyway, I just wanted to post a few of the pics of things that we did this season. It was great to be with family a lot, eat a lot of good food and make a lot of fun memories. We are so thankful for everything that we have this year and I'm excited to start a new year. Let's see....resolutions, I haven't made any "real" ones but of course I would like to continue to just improve on me like weight loss, organizing etc. I guess I'll start with getting Christmas down and then see how long that takes until I work on another resolution! lol I hope you all had a Merry Christmas as well. Here are more pics from Festival. All of the sisters while decorating (from left) Marianne, Andrea, Catherine, Me. Front row: Mary, Aimee and Amy

My awesome brother Jim came to help us with the tree "set up". This is what takes forever. Here is us with the Tree Doctor! Nice guy who drilled our tree and made it sturdy! Making gingerbread with Mimi. We started the season out right by going to tea the the Grand America. Here is Opa, Aunt Kim, Aunt Julie and Mimi. Will starting our Christmas decorating with covering himself with shaving cream. And then HE had the gaul to cry about it! (Note: First and last time you will see me take a picture during a moment of child mess!) We went on the polar express with my friends Mary and Brooke and their families. Fun time! (Probably not worth the money, but hey fun experience for the one try we will ever do! :-) Oh I guess another pic of the tree snuck in here. Maren at her school program with Miss Dawn! Both Maren and Matthew have had her and we love her. Kids with their matching pj's Christmas Eve. Gotta love it! I also like to match us for Christmas church. Here we all are in our matching glory.

This is Matthew at his first piano performance at a family party playing Jolly Old St. Nicolas.

The next video is of Maren. This cracked me up at her school performance because she was annunciating the words so well!