American Idol - Top 11

Billboard's number 1 songs is the theme this week. 

Lee - The Letter  Totally agree with the reviews I've seen of Lee, he needs to show more personality.  He can sing for sure.  I like this jazzy version of the song and he could be in danger of the brass section overpowering him on stage.  But I think he's showing more personality tonight.  Probably his best performance so far.

Paige -  Against All Odds  Don't know if it's her voice problems or what but she's seems really pitchy.  Awww man, the whole thing was just off.  I hate that for her. Can't believe Lacey went home instead of her. (Is that mean?)

Tim - Crazy Little Thing Called Love  Bless him, he's trying to show more personality tonight, but Simon's going to go OFF on the sliding around on the stage.  The vocals were ok for me.  I'm glad he was moving around more, so performance-wise it was better.  But vocally it was just, eh.  Whoa, he got slammed.  I feel bad for him but it really was kind of uncomfortable. 

Aaron - I Don't Want To Miss A Thing  I can tell his voice is not as strong as usual, but I think he's doing great.  Not his best performance, but pretty solid. 

Crystal - Me & Bobby McGee  Have no idea if she took Miley's advice or not, but it sounded crazy good.  I don't know that song but I could totally hear her recording it.  Do I sound like a broken record yet?  Winner.

Michael - When A Man Loves A Woman   Great song for him, although predictable.  He's in it to win it, as they say.  Homeboy can flat out sang.  Outstanding.  Seriously, Kara and Simon are just nit-picking now. 

Andrew - I Heard It Through the Grapevine  Didn't love it.  I think Simon may be onto something.  Maybe the Straight Up performance was just overrated. 

Katie - Big Girls Don't Cry  I like her voice, but I kind of think it fell apart a little at the end.  Not her best performance.  She does look better, younger.  And a better song for her. 

Casey - The Power of Love   Back to the Future, anyone?  I always think of that movie when I hear this song.  The other guitarists are showing more personality than he is.  He needs to work on that.  Vocals are great as always. 

Didi - You're No Good   I don't get the judges.  I liked this a lot.  I totally disagree with them.  I thought it was great and she looked comfortable on stage.  But what do I know?

Siobhan - Superstition  That girl is so different when she is on stage.  When she talks, she's so soft-spoken and almost childlike.  Then she gets on stage and starts channeling Adam Lambert with all the screaming.  I really like her but the crazy screaming is getting on my nerves.  Does she have to do it in every song now?

In my opinion, Tim and Paige are in trouble.  But the teeny bopper vote will probably save Tim.  Time for Lost!

American Idol - Top 12!!

It's Top 12, people!  And they're on the big stage.  What up with the new announcer?  Is that the Kodak Theater?  Where are they?  What in heaven's name does Lacey have on?  I still can't believe Lilly's gone.

Wow, the Stones.  This could get interesting.

Michael - Miss You  Good to see him with his little baby.  Since he missed the birth and all.  That still bugs me. Ok, I'll let it go.  He's great.  He definitely looked comfortable on the big stage.  (Is it me or is Kara totally making sense this year?  Whaat?)

Didi - Play With Fire  Not crazy about this song, but she did a fantastic job.  A little mess up on the words maybe?  I thought something sounded weird and Ellen confirmed.  She covered well.  She'll be here next week.

Casey - It's All Over Now  Loved his video clip.  How sweet is his mom with her Casey James shirt?  Love this song for him.  It fits.  I thought the judges might give him a hard time for the guitar too because he was almost focusing on that more. 

Lacey - Ruby Tuesday   Awww, her dad's so cute talking about her.  Not my favorite performance but I liked it.  I just like her.

Andrew - Gimme Shelter  Andrew as a little boy looks like my friend Traci's little boy. (Right?) I liked this.  Randy says he was pitchy.  Ah, what does he know? 

Katie - Wild Horses  Great vocals.  Good choice.  Don't love the dress.

Tim - Under My Thumb  I don't think the reggae thing was "crazy."  His vocals were good.  The teeny bopper vote will keep him around.

Siobhan - Paint It Black  Whoa with the note near the end.  Wow.  She's crazy good.  Just as much emphasis on "crazy" as "good."  She definitely knows who she is. 

Lee - Beast of Burden  I really like his voice.  That gravely, sand paper quality is cool.  Yay!

Paige - Honky Tonk Women  She does have a great voice, laryngitis or not.  Don't know how much longer she'll be around though.

Aaron - Angie  He's looking more comfortable on stage.  Good song choice for him.  Didn't blow me away but I think it was good.

Crystal - You Can't Always Get What You Want  I'd say Siobhan was my favorite tonight, but Crystal is my favorite overall.  I've said it before (I think), she's in a league of her own.

No time to read over this again.  I've left my kids to their own devices while I watch this.  Who wants to bet they haven't been doing school? ha!

American Idol - Top 16 - Guys

Lee - Fireflies  I liked it.  Good performance from him.  Good grief with all the "moment" comments.  Everybody has to have a "moment" this week.  How many times did we hear that last night?

Alex - Trouble  Ok it's time for him to just step up and shake off the nerves and get on with it.  He still looks uncomfortable but not like he's going to throw up, so I guess that's progress.  It didn't blow me away, but I thought it was pretty good. 

Tim - Hallelujah  I'm liking the acoustic guitar and I think he did a good job.  I love that Ellen went up to hug him.  Maybe it was his moment. 

Andrew - Genie in a Bottle  Ok, right off the bat I'm thinking this is a weird choice for him and a guitar.  But he killed it with Straight Up, so who knows?  I seriously didn't hate it!  ha!  I kind of liked it.  I think I need to hear it again to say I loved it, but I definitely liked it.

Casey - You'll Think of Me  Good choice for him.  Not his best performance but he sounded great.  He's in it for the long haul.

Aaron - I'm Already There   Yikes, it's starting out rough.  Definitely not as good as last week.  Might have been too big for him.  The end was a lot better than the beginning for sure. 

Todrick -  Somebody To Love  Well, right off I'll just say nothing beats the Glee version of this.  I'm a teeny bit obsessed.  That said, I'm not crazy about this.  I don't know why but there's something I don't like about him.  It was better than anything else I've seen him do though.

Michael - This Woman's Work   Best of the night.  By far. The end. Amen.

I think Alex and Aaron are in trouble.  What did you think?

American Idol - Top 16 - Girls

Let's get right to it. 

Katie - Breakaway  Don't know if this was the right song choice for her or not.  She seemed flat? sharp? something to me.  Not crazy about this.

Siobhan - House of the Rising Sun  Girl's got pipes.  I love that you never know what she'll wear or sing.  Such an original, that girl.

Can you tell they're trying to cram this into an hour show? No video clips and Ryan and Siobhan barely got off the stage before Lacey started singing. 

Lacey - The Story  I really like her voice.  I don't think this will be the best performance of the night, but I liked it a lot.  She seemed relaxed and in her element with this song.

Katelyn - I Feel the Earth Move  Karaoke comments?  Any bets?  Not as good as last week by far but I think the vocals were good.  They should be since she's top 16 and all but I totally agree with the judges.  Too safe and she didn't seem like she was competing.  Bummer.  And I think Simon's restaurant comment counts as karaoke.

Didi - Rhiannon  I SO love her voice. WAY better the Lean on Me last week.  Great song for her.  I loved it.  Loved it.  Love the bag, love the shoes, love everything. (Movie?)

Paige - Smile  This was a little rough.  Shaky and pitchy, right?  Yikes. 

Crystal - Give Me One Reason  HOW does this girl not already have a contract?  I like this better than the original.  Killed it.  And love her earrings. 

Lily - I Fall To Pieces  Seriously just go ahead and put her and Crystal in the finals.  Do not pass GO, do not collect $200.  Straight to the finals. 

Paige and Katie should go.  Maybe Katelyn.  And after that, seeing any of these girls go will be a tragedy.  Ok, maybe tragedy is a little dramatic.  But sad, it will be sad.

Time to get Lost!

American Idol - Top 20

Couldn't watch the guys last night so I decided not to blog.  I watched this afternoon, so here are a few thoughts. 

Loved Michael and Casey (Hayes asked "Is that a boy or a girl?").

Liked Alex, Aaron, Lee, and Kara's dress.

Did NOT like Jermaine calling God his "Homeboy." 

And seriously with Alex and his made-up language? And the TMI about throwing up.  Oh bless.

Jermaine's onesie?  No. Words.

-----------------------------------

Let's just get right to the girls.

Crystal - Long As I Can See The Light - So you'd never know she was sick yesterday.  Somebody sign her NOW.  If I didn't have this laptop on my lap, I'd stand up and clap.  BRAVO.  (Is 'misunderestimate' a word, Simon?  My spell check says No.)

Haeley - The Climb - Good call on a younger song (haha I typed younger smile the first time).  My husband is going off on her short skirt and her mom for letting her wear it.  I tend to agree.  I think the song was kind of rough.  Not good.  Maybe she has a career in making hair accessories?

Lacey - Kiss Me - Way better than last week.  She's working out her nerves.  I like her voice a lot.  Loved. It.

Side note:  The judges (Randy, I'm looking at you.) are driving me crazy with their comments.  Change up the song too much, they get slammed.  Don't change it up enough, they get slammed.  I don't have a solution to that or anything.  It just gets on my nerves.

Katie - Put Your Records On - I think this was a great song choice.  I liked it immensely.  Boo for the judges.

Didi - Lean On Me - Am I the only one who rolled her eyes at this song?  Next week, Friends are Friends Forever.  Song choice aside, I LOVE her voice. 

Dang, Kara is harsh tonight.  She needs to quit sitting beside Simon.  I definitely do not think she was screeching.  Is the sound so different in the studio?

Michelle - With Arms Wide Open - Um, Madonna circa 1984 called and she wants her outfit back.  Not crazy about this.  I liked the song and the way it was arranged but not so much the vocals.  There were some good parts, but mostly I didn't like it as much as others tonight.

Lilly - A Change is Gonna Come - I agree with Ellen, she has IT.  Whatever IT is, Lilly has it.  Awesome, awesome.

Katelyn - The Scientist - A little boring to me, but her vocals are great tonight.  And I love somebody who can play the piano, so points for that.  I liked it mucho much.

Paige - Walk Away - I did not know that Kara wrote that song.  I liked it.  Good performance and she looked like she was having fun.  Hey, Ellen said the same thing!  Randy is so grouchy tonight.  This song has too many words.  The last song was so slow.  I know they are judges and are supposed to critique but he's such a Negative Nelly. 

Siobhan - Think - I keep forgetting how to say her name.  She really is an interesting person, isn't she?  Of COURSE she had a mohawk!  She's screaming a little, but overall I like it.  Ellen's Snuggie comment had me laughing out loud. 

To sum it up: The girls KILLED it.  They redeemed themselves this week. 

Crystal and Siobhan were my favorites.  I think Haeley and Michelle are in trouble.   

American Idol - Top 24 - Guys

The boys are singing tonight.  Hopefully we won't have to worry about any skintight leggings or crocheted sweaters.  You never know though.  I'm blogging from my parents' house so who knows how this will go.  I'm used to it just being me and Daniel in the room.  Maybe I'll include everybody's comments.   Participants include my parents, my brother Clay, his gf Natalie, and Becca.  Hang on. 

Todrick Hall - Since You've Been Gone  Ok seriously what is this arrangement?  I'm not even sure what I think about it.  It's distracting me from the vocals.  I think I'm Switzerland on this one.   Natalie says: "you just never know when you'll need a whistle."

Aaron Kelly - Here Comes Goodbye  Clay says: "Boo."  Natalie says: "That's just because he (Clay) doesn't like Rascal Flatts."  Mom says: "He's a cute kid."  I think it was pretty good.  Becca likes him and Dad just keeps making fun of Randy. 

Jermaine Sellers - Get Here  Not loving this.  Some rough parts.  Ok a lot of rough parts.  Nobody in the room liked it either. 

Tim Urban - Apologize I think this is good.  What a cutie.  Wow, Simon is harsh.  Ok I really didn't think this was as bad as the judges did.  Poor guy.  I think he needs a hug. 

Joe Munoz - You and I Both  Not loving his man scarf.  Natalie says: "He smiles a lot.  That was good."  I thought so too.  For me, for you dawg, good job. 

Tyler Grady - American Woman  Mom says: "Well, I hate that."  ha!  Natalie says: "Simon's going to kill him."  I didn't like it either.  I agree with Ellen, he doesn't have much stage presence.  She basically called him a poser.  To the mall!

Lee Dewyze - Chasing Cars  A little pitchy in places, but I like him.  Clay says: "I wanted to like him."  His voice reminds me of David Cook, so I hope he makes it through.  Simon agrees with me.  So there.

John Park - God Bless the Child  The room didn't like it at all.  Not crazy about the song anyway.  Sorry Shania, not good.

Michael Lynche - This Love  I like this song.  Is he even playing the guitar?  It bugs me when people touch the microphone with their lips.  Do they clean it off before the next person?  Can you even sterilize that?  Anyway, I liked it ok but it didn't blow me away.  Side note:  How long can his wife use the whole you-missed-our-daughter's-birth thing? I'm thinking that's got a lot of mileage on it. 

Alex Lambert - Wonderful World    He looks scared.  Ok, is it just nerves?  That wasn't good.  Uncomfortable is the right word, Simon.  Oh bless him.  I like his voice though. 

FYI, Becca and Dad went to bed and Natalie is asleep in the chair. 

Casey James - Heaven   Ok, isn't Kara married?  I liked the beginning without the band.  Nobody else has done that tonight.  It was good.  I think they are just making him uncomfortable now.  He's going to go far because of his looks alone, but he has a great voice too.  Ryan's joke about Kara's HR meeting cracked me up.

Andrew Garcia - Sugar We're Going Down   Anybody else getting a Danny Gokey vibe?  Seriously the best of the night for me.  Hands down.  I don't know this song, so maybe that's why.  The judges didn't like it but I think vocally it was the best tonight. 

Just realized that I didn't absolutely love any of these guys.  It was kinda rough I thought.  Maybe first night nerves.

My faves for tonight are Casey and Andrew.  And I think maybe Tyler and Jermaine are in trouble.  

Later peeps!

American Idol - Top 24 - Girls

Well, it's American Idol time.  Time for cute little Kris Allen and his Ford driving self to give up the title of YOUR American Idol.

Has anyone really missed Paula?  I haven't.  I think Ellen was a great choice.  She definitely brings the funny.  And I'm finding I don't really miss the crazy. 

It's funny Kara's talking about America knowing this group already.  I don't think I even know any names yet. 

Paige Miles - "It's Alright Now" I'm not loving this.  I didn't like the beginning but it's getting better.  Gorgeous eyes.

I'm loving that car that can record your CD's. 

GLEE!!!

Ashley Rodriguez - "Happy"  There were some good moments and some not so good moments.  Nerves, maybe?  She's such a pretty girl. 

Janell Wheeler - "What About Love"  Not sure she has the voice for this song.  I really liked her song in Hollywood with the guitar, so I hope she stays.  And I so want to put an "e" on the end of her name.  It just looks like it needs an "e".  Not that she cares what I think.  But still.

Lilly Scott - "Fixing a Hole"  I've never heard this song and I had to rewind my DVR twice to figure out the title.  That said, even though I think the song is as weird as the title, she did a good job.  I like her, so original.  I also had to rewind to hear what Simon said at the beginning of his comments.  What?

Katelyn Epperly - "Oh Darlin'"  Girlfriend has some hair.  Wow, that was great!  I liked it.  I think Randy needs a blue watch.

Haeley Vaughn -"I Want To Hold Your Hand" Although shouldn't it be "I Wanna Hold Your Hand"?  Apparently she's a fan of the headband.  I like this arrangement, although she's a little screechy at times. 

Lacey Brown - "Landslide" (aka The Girl They Let Go To Keep Megan Joy Last Season)  Big mistake. Big. Huge. (Name that movie.)  I just didn't like her and she was not very good in concert.     She's kind of all over the place.  Yikes.  I'm not loving that. In trouble. 

Seriously if you're not watching Glee, I have a question for you.  WHY??

Michelle Delamor - "Falling"  With that song, it could have gone bad quickly.  But I thought it was great.  And hey, what's a corporate singer?  Anybody?

Didi Benami - "The Way I Am" Ok, now I do remember her and I liked her singing Terrified.  I remember laughing at Simon liking the song even though Kara wrote it.  Speaking of Megan Joy she kind of sounds like her.  I like Didi's voice WAY better.  Love her.  And a shout out to grandma for making the sweater.

These Old Spice commercials are cracking me up.  "Did you know that I am riding this horse backwards?"  

Siobhan Magnus - "Wicked Game"  She has a great voice.  I might like this better than the original.  Definitely quirky girl.  

Crystal Bowersox - "Hand in My Pocket"  She's kind of in a league of her own, huh?  I really like her.  Aaaand I'm tired of typing. 

Katie Stevens - "Feeling Good"  All I can think of is me at 17 and then I just laugh.  And say bless my heart.  Who has that much confidence at 17?  Whoa.  I agree she needs to BE 17.  

I think Lacey and maybe Janell-no-e are in trouble tonight.   Not sure I'll be blogging tomorrow night since I'll be at my mom's.  But I'm going ahead and calling Casey James as a fan fave.  And by fan I mean girls. :)

Jen. Out.

American Idol Finale

I'm so excited that I get to watch the finale live tonight!  I've missed the last few weeks and had to watch either really late or the next day. 

There's been lots of talk, at least in my little circle of the world, about Idol tonight and we're all pretty much Kris fans.  Unsure if he can win it, but fans none the less. 

Well, Paula's been tanning and Simon doesn't have on a T-shirt!!  It must be a special night.  There should be lots of celebrities in the audience too, so I'll be giving them shout outs I'm sure.

Adam goes first tonight.  Ooo, Kara's co-written a song for them.  Very interesting. 

Adam's parents seem very normal.  That's all I have to say about that.  He's singing "Mad World" first.  Oh, he's just so dramatic with the smoke and weird lights.  I am so thankful that there's not screaming in this one.  He does have a great voice when he's not screaming.  And it's a lovefest for the judges, except for the coat for Simon.  Big surprise.

Anthony Hopkins! Fava beans!

Seriously are Kris Allen's parents not the cutest??  Kris is doing "Ain't No Sunshine".  I loved this performance the first time around and I'm SO glad he picked it.  Loved it again!!  Ooo Simon's clapping!  I think that's a good sign.  Wow, it's a lovefest for Kris too!  Didn't really expect that. 

Simon Fuller picked "Change Is Gonna Come" for Adam.  He changed into a shiny suit for this one.  That reminds me of all the suits and wacked out ties from the Bachelorette last night.  Was anybody else bothered by all the bad ties?  And we won't even talk about the one guy's Member's Only jacket.  Oh sorry.  I just heard Adam start screaming and remembered what I was doing. I don't really know what else to say.  He screams.  Every song (except "Mad World" oddly enough) sounds the same.  And I'm not a fan.  The end.  Oh seriously I'm afraid Paula's going to start throwing clothing items at Adam.

Katie and Suri!! 

Producer pick is "What's Going On" for Kris.  Good pick for him. I like acoustic guitar Kris.  I disagree with Randy.  That performance is Who He Is. It shows what kind of artist he is and will be.  Anything's going to seem "light" after Mr. Theatrical.  I don't think it has anything to do with The Night. 

Now they sing some song Kara wrote, right?  This should be good.  I mean how different will these two make it?  It could be like 2 different songs totally. 

"No Boundaries" is the song.  Adam's up first.  Well I'm not loving this song.  Don't know if it's the song or the singer.  I can't really understand the lyrics.  It's definitely not his best performance by a long shot.  Of course Kara likes it.  Simon took the easy way out and didn't even judge the performance.  Apparently he didn't like the song though.  Funny. 

Let's see Kris's take on it.  I'm assuming there won't be screaming.  This isn't that good either.  Let's just say it's the song, ok?  It's a little high, isn't it?  I think that's the worst I've heard him the whole competition.  I hope the judges judge him on the whole season like they did Adam.  And they did. 

Well I think it's just a matter of how many Danny fans vote for Adam and how many vote for Kris.  They are so different and I would think have way different fan bases and tonight's not going to change anybody's mind. 

Certainly won't change mine!!  Go Kris!!!

American Idol - Top 3!!!

Can I get a What What??!!  Top 3!!!  I'm way more excited about this season than last.  WAY MORE.

Awww, remember when the mayor would deliver a white envelope in front of the whole town with the judge's choice?  We've come so far.

Danny's up first.  Paula's choice for him is "Dance Little Sister".  I liked it.  And really, after watching Taylor Hicks for a whole season who would ever critique someone's dancing?  Just sayin'.  That was a great song for his voice.  I love me some Danny and all but I think 3rd place is his for the taking. 

Seriously I think Simon and Paula should just get together already.  I mean they are just one pigtail pull short of a total elementary school romance. 

Obviously Idol doesn't trust Kara to pick a song on her own.  She and Randy picked "Apologize" for Kris.  He's back on the piano.  Haven't seen that in a while, have we?  Good choice for him.  Maybe these judges do know a thing or two.  Loved it!!   Ok I change my mind about the judges knowing anything.  Does Kara just want it to be a Danny/Adam finale?  I mean, she picked the dern song! 

Simon picked, and apparently arranged, "One" for Adam.  Dude, the judges are choosing amazing songs for these guys.  I can't look at him when he's screaming and sticking his tongue out!  My eyes! My eyes!  (a la Phoebe Buffay) I mean, come on, it was a fantastic performance until he started licking the microphone and screaming and going all freaky freaky on us. 

Danny's singing "You Are So Beautiful" for Round 2.  It's a little s l o w.  Vocals were really good MAD!  Dawg!  Great job, glasses boy!

Oh crap.  Kris is singing Kanye West!!!  "Heartless"  I don't know Kanye music.  I can't stand him!  Is this a good choice???  I'm betting this is NOT how Kanye sings this song.  Ok, seriously I loved it.  I don't care WHO sang it before Kris.  Arms up yelling "YEAH" at Randy's comment!  Yeah baby, yeah!!!  I'm totally voting tonight.  (Don't judge. No, I haven't voted this season.)

Big surprise, Adam's singing Aerosmith,  "Crying."  See, if he'd just stay in that range he's in at the beginning, I might be able to handle it.  But there he goes in that falsetto screaming, trying to eat the mic.  Oh whatever.  He's a performer, headed to Broadway or something. 

I'm voting already and getting busy signals for Kris.  Yay!

American Idol - Thunderstorm Week

Blasted thunderstorms.  Knocked out our satellite.  Still not up and I've been on the phone with a nice guy in who knows where for 20 minutes. 

Apparently our satellite moved during the storm and now only the receiver upstairs works.  The one WITHOUT the DVR. 

And guess when they can come out to look at it. 

Monday. Monday!!!!!  As in 5 days from now.

So I missed Idol last night and the only info I have is from BooMama's recap and it was delightful.  I know.  I could watch it on YouTube, but you know, I've got clothes to wash and bathrooms to clean.

Cause we're headed to the beach this weekend.  Yay!!!  And in preparation I went back to my weight lifting class today.  Because you know it's totally possible to get a six packed, swim suit ready bod in 3 days. 

So far, I can barely lift my arms to reset the satellite receiver, so YAY!  ALMOST THERE!

Hopefully I'll be back in the game for next week's TOP THREE!!!  Also known as Kris, Danny, and Allison. 

Hey, a girl can dream. 

American Idol - Top 5

This. Is. American Idol.  Rat Pack style. 

And everybody's sporting suits.  Some a little, ahem, brighter than others.

And either it's Prom Night for the girl judges or they're dressing for the genre.  Gotta give it up for a girl who likes a theme. 

AND the mentor is....Jamie Foxx?  Really, Idol?  Really?  Couldn't get Michael Buble, huh?

Kris - "The Way You Look Tonight"   Oh bless it.  These kids today just don't wear the tie clips, do they?  Wow, Jamie Foxx is really complimentary of Kris.  I think this song fits his voice and style so well.  Swoon.  Just sayin'.  In it to WIN it, dawg! 

Allison - "Someone To Watch Over Me"  Happy birthday!!  Ok, I might have to take back my initial reaction to Foxx.  He's got some good advice.  She knocked that out of the park.  Although I think I'd like her, just ONE WEEK, to please sing something YOUNG.  Not sure what that would have been this week, but still.  And I'd like to ask Simon what 17 year old do you know that has the kind of confidence he's talking about?  Or maybe that's just me channeling my inner 17 yr old. Never mind.

Matt - "My Funny Valentine"  Ok, so if anybody could kick this theme's hiney, it's Matt.  I figured he'd be at the piano where he's more comfortable.  Might be a mistake. Not the strongest voice in the bunch.  I'm not crazy about it.  Is he pitchy?  I don't know, but I'm very surprised at Simon's critique.

I really want some chocolate right now.  Think I could talk Daniel into going to get Frosty's? 

Danny - "Come Rain or Come Shine"  Jamie's all in Danny's personal space.  All up in his GRILL.  That some kind of weird acting technique?  How about some French cuffs and cuff links.  And a pocket square.  I think this is one of my favorite performances of his.  I'd stand up and clap if I didn't have this dern laptop on my lap.  (Burning the tar out of my thighs, I might add.)  Bravo, buddy!  Bravo!  Hey!  I understood everything Paula said!  STELLAR!

He's making fruit smoothies instead.  Oh well.

Adam -  "Feeling Good"  Can we just have ONE WEEK WITHOUT ALL THE SCREAMING?  Ok, I'm expecting him to start stripping.  Tell me you didn't think that when he's walking down the steps.  Sorry.  Anyway, I know he has a huge audience and he'll probably win, yada yada yada.  Really, Randy?  A little theatrical and dramatic?  And Paula.  I'm sure Michael Phelps loved that comparison.  Or maybe he needs the positive press right now. 

My fave of the night--- Danny and Kris

In trouble---Matt. 

Go over to BooMama's to see other Idol recaps.

American Idol - Top 7 (again)

It's Wednesday morning and I'm just now watching!  Is this even worth doing?  I haven't seen any other re-caps though, so we'll pretend it's Tues night.  Man, I feel incredibly rested for 8 pm.

Disco Night!  Get out your platforms, ladies!

Lil - "I'm Every Woman"  Chaka! Chaka Chan Chaka!  It's time for her to go.  I'm sorry. The vocals just aren't there.  It seems all over the place to me.  Why oh why is she talking?  Shut up already!

Kris - "She Works Hard For the Money"  Hey they aren't doing videos this week.  And they are letting all the judges talk.  That is a crazy arrangement.  I like it!  Oh goodness I loved that!  It was cool and new and wow!   Ready for the big time, dawg!!! 

Paula is just so weird.

Danny - "September"  It's hard to listen to that song without dancing a little, ya know? As evidenced by my 4 yr old right now.  I think it was good.  Vocals were pretty good and it was a great performance. 

Allison - "Looking for Some Hot Stuff"  I was getting ready to comment on her outfit, but my daughter walked in the room and said "Whoa."  I think that says it right there.  I'm not sure I liked that arrangement.  Her vocals are always great, but I didn't really like that.   Hey Dawg agrees with me. 

Looks like taking out the videos is working.  They're half way through the show and have 3 more performances.  Good call.

Adam - "If I Can't Have You"  I don't want nobody, baby.  I'm just sayin'.  Ok that's a very interesting arrangement.  Totally not how I'm singing it right now.  And of course we have the token screeching in the middle.  I'm just not a fan, in case you didn't know.  Oh gracious, Paula gives me a headache.  All that talk about him tearing out his heart and leaving it on the stage.  Maybe a teeny dramatic.

Matt - "Stayin' Alive"  There were some parts that made me cringe, but overall I liked it.  I like his cool vibe, his JT-ness.  I agree with Simon that he can't win it, but I like him and think he's going to make some great music. 

Anoop - "Dim All The Lights"  Ooo what about that 'stache? Not sure I like the song choice.  He's sounding a little pitchy.  Oh dude, that last note.  Yikes. 

Kris is my favorite tonight.  Lil and Anoop are in trouble.  

Gotta go!

American Idol - Top 7

So I totally missed blogging last week. I didn't get to watch until Wednesday and by then, well, what's the point? I read lots of re-caps and honestly, right now I can't really remember anything that happened. Except that everybody missed Adam's performance because the judges (hello, Paula) were long-winded and they went long and THAT'S WHAT WE GET FOR DEPENDING ON A DVR.

Luckily my sweet husband was watching and recorded Fringe so that I could see Adam (um, thanks?) without scouring YouTube.

Tonight the theme is Songs From Movies and the mentor is, naturally, Quentin Tarantino. Seriously? What does he know from music? He makes movies and movies have music, therefore....he knows music. Okaaaay.

Nice. They are only letting 2 judges talk per contestant. We'll see how that goes.

Allison Iraheta - "I Don't Want To Miss A Thing" I think this is a good choice for her. Great, great way to start the night. I loved it. Knocked it out of the PARK!

Anoop Desai - "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You" Quentin Tarantino giving him singing advice is seriously giving me a twitch. Oh goodness, I'm 18 again. Love me some Bryan Adams. I liked it. I really like his voice. Not sure what is up with that jacket though.

Adam Lambert - "Born To Be Wild" Back to rocker mode. I gotta hand it to him, that was a star performance right there. And you know how bad it hurts to say that, right?

They really just shouldn't let Paula talk. Simon, however, cracks me up.

Matt Giraud - "Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman" This seems like it will be a good song for him. I think I liked it better when it was just him and the piano. Ooo, that part near the end when his voice squeaked was bad and just off. Yikes, he might be in trouble this week.

Why is Simon making weird faces while Kara is talking? Is he 7?

Danny Gokey - "Endless Love" Ok, great, now I'm going to be watching his hands. I thought it was ok. A little rough in places actually. AND he lost his glasses. What's wrong with the world?

Oh the bright side, Michael and Lincoln are coming back FRIDAY! Glory!

Kris Allen - "Falling Slowly" It started out, um, slowly, but I really think he can do no wrong. I just love him. Wouldn't it be great if he sang some Chris Tomlin one night? Simon's head might explode.

Oh my word. Lil is singing "The Rose". WHO in the world is advising her? She is just singing herself right out of the competition.

Lil Rounds - "The Rose" To quote my sister-in-law, I just don't think she's as good a singer as she thinks she is. She's pitchy and she's putting in too many riffs and changing the melody too much. How's that for some opinions?

In trouble this week: Lil and Matt

Next week, Songs About Animals with mentor, Lassie. Y'all come!

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*Edited to Add: Y'all I just read this post about Idol and it totally cracked me up. Girlfriend is hilarious!!

American Idol - Top 10

Well, I'm getting a late start tonight.  It's already 9:30 and I'm just watching.  Bright side---- I get to fast forward through all the commercials AND Paula's comments  so, you know, YAY!

Motown Week! 

(We're trying to hang a ledge for pictures (from IKEA!) tonight as well.  So who knows how this is going to go.  I already have to pause it!)

Matt Giraud - "Let's Get it On"  Ok is it just me or is he dressed a little geeky for this sexy song?  I already saw this performance at my brother's earlier tonight, but I couldn't really hear it.  Nobody can really compete with Marvin Gaye singing this, so it's good he's making it his own.  I like the falsetto parts.  Well done.

(Is anyone else as grossed out as I am over the Osbourne's new show?  That guy kissing the grandma makes me gag.)

Kris Allen - "How Sweet It Is"  I love me some Kris Allen and apparently so does Smokey Robinson.  I'm seriously hating his shirt.  That was reeeeallly good.  I disagree with Simon about him needing to be conceited.  There's a difference in believing in yourself and being conceited.  Keep it real, Kris!

Scott MacIntyre - "You Can't Hurry Love"  I'm not quoting my husband but there may have just been a comment about vision problems and those pants.  Kind of weird song choice for a guy, but he's going to make it original I'm pretty sure.  (Who's seeing Runaway Bride in their heads?)  He's not the strongest voice of the competition but dude can play some piano.  That was pretty good.  Definite great performance, vocals pretty good.  (Oh how funny was that about the pants!  They didn't tell him they were pink until 10 min before!  That's just wrong.)

Megan Joy - "For Once In My Life"  I'm not so sure her voice is great for this song.  I'm not loving it.  Granted I was reading an email from my friend Ashleigh to Daniel while she was singing, but I didn't like it.  And now apparently the judges aren't feeling it either.  But man, girlfriend is flat out gorgeous. 

Anoop Dawg Desai - "Ooo Baby Baby"  He's gonna have to HIT those notes or it will be baaad.  Sounds good to me but we all know I'm not a music genius.  I liked it.  Tough song and he did great.  I must say I really like Kara this year as a coherent female voice on the panel. 

(The picture ledge is hung!  Yay!  It looks so cool!)

Michael Sarver  - "Ain't Too Proud To Beg"  This song always makes me want to dance.  It's hard to type and dance.  That was ok.  He's still at least 4th or 5th behind some of the other guys in my opinion. 

Seriously what is up with Randy's sweater? 

Lil Rounds - "Heat Wave"  Well at least she's dressed for the genre this week.  That pink prom dress for country week was killing me.  I feel like she's screaming at me.  She's got a great voice, but she's just yelling.  It was just ok for me.

Adam Lambert - "The Tracks of My Tears"  Oh what up with the hair?  I fast forwarded through the beginning so I'm just seeing this.  He doesn't even look like the same guy.  Maybe he should have done that for the Johnny Cash song.  Or Elvis week.   I don't want to like him, I really don't, but that was great.  Original and just awesome.  Props to you, dude.

Danny Gokey - "Get Ready"  He didn't take Smokey's advice.  I still like it though.  I usually agree with Simon but not on this one.  They are rushing.   They better not go late or my DVR will cut off!!!

Allison Iraheta - "Papa Was A Rollin' Stone"  Good song choice for her voice.  I'm thinking the performance of the night.  That last note was outstanding.  Maybe Simon and Paula should pay attention to the performances instead of drawing on each other.  Ya think?

Ok, no time to proof this.  I've got a load of clothes to fold and my bed is calling!  Peace out!

American Idol - Top 11

I'm back!!  Last week I watched Idol in our nation's capitol at a viewing party at the White House with Barack and Michelle.  Fun was had by all.  Although I did have to call it a night when the Pres broke out in the Thriller dance.  There's only so much a girl can take. 

Ok, well, I WAS in DC and I did watch Idol.  Hopefully I'll get around to doing a post on Homeschoolers Go To Washington soon. 

Grand Ole Opry Week!!  Yahoo!

Michael Sarver - "Ain't Going Down (Till the Sun Comes Up)"  Love me some Garth Brooks y'all.  I denied my love for country music all through high school and believe me, I was in the minority.  I finally gave in in college and accepted my fate to love the music of my people.  Ok, enough about me.  Michael keeps saying he isn't a country singer, but who you kiddin' Texas boy?  Probably not a great song choice overall but a good performance. 

Let me say right here that talking back to the judges is one of my pet peeves.  STOP. IT.

Allison Iraheta - "Blame It On Your Heart"   Good song choice, fits her voice well.  She's a great performer for such a young one.  Is it just me or does she NOT sound 16?  Daniel thinks she matched her jacket to her hair.  Probably not an easy thing to do.  

Kris Allen - "To Make You Feel My Love"  (Hey, from Hope Floats, Faith!)  Ok, before he starts, let me say I seriously like this guy.  And I thought it was tacky when Simon said he shouldn't have brought out his wife yet.  They're so cute!  Now, I think he's singing this well and I love that it's a little different than Garth's.  Unfortunately, he's been overshadowed by Danny and Adam so far.  Maybe tonight that'll change.  "Tender moments from my dawg Kris."  Randy really has a way with words, doesn't he?

Lil Rounds - "Independence Day"  Not loving the dress.  Doesn't say 'country' to me.  Definitely not her style of music but girl's got some pipes.  The last half showed that off.  Cracked me up when Simon called her "Little". 

Adam Lambert - "Ring Of Fire"  Ok, seriously that video of Adam and Randy was funny, awkward, and made my day.  I don't really like Adam and I'm hating this song choice.  I mean, do you really do THAT to a Johnny Cash song?  Not loving it.  I feel like the judges all want him to win and he can do no wrong.  And now I love Simon.  He's the only one up there with any sense. 

Scott MacIntyre - "Wild Angels"  That was pretty good.  The beginning was a little slow for me but he picked it up at the end.  And for the record I like him playing the piano. 

The judges are arguing a lot tonight.  I'm a little annoyed by that. 

Alexis Grace - "Joleen"  That was ok for me.  Is she off a little?  It sounds a little flat or sharp or something.  Oh, I don't know.  Let's see what the music people say.  Ha!  I was right! 

So now we're just having all out conversations with the judges?  Shut. It.

Danny Gokey - "Jesus Take the Wheel"  Bless his heart, he's choking in front of Randy Travis.  Hopefully he does better live.  Not sure he should have picked a song so related to another Idol.  He's rockin' it though.  Not loving the white coat.  Just sayin'.  He's still my fave. 

Seriously, it's like Simon and I are sharing a brain tonight.

Anoop "Dawg" Desai - "You're Always On My Mind"  Two lines in and---Yo dawg!  Anoop's back!!!  I absolutely love that arrangement.  LOVED IT!  Yeah baby!

Megan Joy -  "I Go Walking After Midnight"  When did she become just Megan Joy?  I'm not sure she's quite popular enough yet to drop her last name. I seriously don't think she can sing without doing that little dance move.  Wouldn't have guessed she was sick.  If I close my eyes so I don't see the tatoo or the dance, I like it. 

Matt Giraud - "So Small"  Y'all I'll admit it.  I was not crazy about this season at first, but there are some great singers this year.  Matt does not disappoint.  Great job. 

I can't pick a bottom 3.  I can't even pick a top 3! 

My favorite of the night was Anoop.  Least fave was Adam. 

What did you think? 

American Idol - Top 36 - Wild Card

I didn't realize there was even a show tonight!  And I had big plans to iron my new curtains while I watched Survivor and The Office.  What to do, what to do? 

And they better hope they put Tatiana at the end because if I have to start my night off listening to her drama I might just turn it on over to Survivor and then we'd have a very short post. 

Oh look, she's NEXT TO LAST!  And Anoop Dawg is last!  So you know I totally have to watch until the end.  Those sneaky little Idol people. 

As I said on Facebook today, if Tatiana makes it to the Top 12 then AI is dead to me.  That's it, I'm DONE!  I'm just sayin'. 

Here we go.  (Didn't we just do this?)

Jesse Langseth - "Tell Me Something Good"  I like her voice but I don't think this was a great performance. 

Matt Giraud - "Who's Lovin' You"    Not loving the scarf, but that's neither here nor there, I guess.  Interesting, fits his style.  Good choice for him.  He sang, what?  3 lines of the song?  That's weird.  How long are they giving them to sing, like 25 seconds?

Megan Joy Corkrey - "Black Horse and The Cherry Tree"  Oh it's the shimmy, twisty dance again.  STOP IT!  Remembering Katherine McPhee singing this.  It was ok for me.  I like her so I'm torn. 

Von Smith - "Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word"  Starting out weak.  What is up with his hair?  I didn't really like it. 

(Oh for goodness sake, spit it out already, Paula.)

Jasmine Murray - "Reflection"  I love her so I'm pulling for her.  Good song choice.  Way better than her last time.  You go girl!

Ricky Braddy - "Superstition"  I'm so glad he is getting a second chance.  He got cheated the first time since no one had even LAID EYES ON HIM before the first Top 36 show.  He rocked it!  He's representin' the Tar Heel state well!

Tatiana Del Toro - "Saving All My Love For You"  All I'm sayin' is don't let her talk.  And right off the bat, she talks.  And, WHITNEY!  She's wearing Paula's bracelet.  Girl can sing, so maybe if there's a clause that she can't talk or cry or thank anybody, it would be ok.  Oh, SHUT UP ALREADY.  That's all.

Anoop Desai - "My Perogative"  Didn't he sing this already?  I don't care.  I love the 'Noop Dawg.  (But seriously what was up with the tie in the clip?  Is that a Carolina frat boy thing?) 

Uh oh, Simon's comment about putting personality through makes me nervous! 

I pick Jasmine, Ricky, and Anoop. 

We'll see what the judges say.  I'm going to iron during the commercials. Back in a flash.

Well, 2 out of 3 ain't bad.  And yay for Top 13! 

Finally, The Office is new!  Later!

American Idol - Top 36 - Week 3

Top 36, round 3 for this odd little season on AI.  Also known as the Season Of The Poor Song Choice.  Finger crossed!

Von Smith - "You're All I Need To Get By"  He was warned about screaming at people in Hollywood.  I feel a little screamed at  already.  Maybe next time he can be a little more expressive.   I'm with Simon on the outfit.  Hate it.

Taylor Vaifanua - "If I've Got You"  Not crazy about the beginning but half way through it got way better.  She's good.  I liked it but it might be forgettable.  What in the sam hill is up with Paula's necklace?  On the up side Ryan's stylist seems to be back from vacation.

Alex Wagner-Trugman - "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues"  He's a funny kid.  Losing points for the dancing.  And the growling.   He's a little young to be singing about stuff going on under the covers, don't you think?  Awkward.  He's a cutie, but I'm not crazy about that performance.  Now I kind of feel like I've kicked a puppy.

Arianna Afsar - "The Winner Takes It All"  Love me some ABBA. This one is probably too old for her though.  The judges are going to hate it unless she knocks it out of the park.  Well, I think the last half was better than the first, but she struggled.  She's just so cute.  Say it with me.  AS A BUTTON.  Oh bless her.   

Ju'not Joyner - "Hey There, Dehlila"  Not exactly starting out as a fun and lively guy.  I'm bored.  I did not like that.  I have never heard that song and I don't like it at all.  And BAM, the judges love it.  This is why Kara replaced me this year.  Why do people even read this?

Kristen McNamara - "Give Me One Reason" Ok, I didn't know it was possible to have a "boo-boo" at the hair stylist and end up with purple hair.  Let's all hope that isn't a common problem.  Finally an upbeat song.  Girlfriend can SING. 

Nathaniel "Drama Queen" Marshall - "I Would Do Anything For Love"  Somebody go snatch that headband off his head.  I remember his back story from Hollywood week.  Lives with his grandma, parents aren't around.  I feel sorry for the guy.  He's definitely searching for something.  Oh somebody share Jesus with him.  That was ok.  He might make it through just on personality. 

Felicia Barton - "No One"  I liked it a lot.  She kind of sounds like Nelly Furtado.  Glad she got to come back.  Bravo.

Scott MacIntyre - "Mandolin Rain"  It's ok.  A couple of rough spots.  I really like him.  He does better with the piano so I hope he gets through.  High five, dude!

Kendall Beard - "This One's For the Girls"   I bet she can belt out some Martina.  Not that I necessarily remember her belting out anything.  Good song choice.  Maybe I spoke too soon.  It was ok.  Not great.  She struggled to hit some notes.  But great dress.

Jorge Nunez - "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me"  He did way better than I expected him too.  I really liked it!  REEEallly, reeeeally good, dawg.  I love that he said when he gets so excited he can't think in English.  I know how he feels. 

Lil Rounds - "Be Without You"  Love Lil!  And seriously, what a name.  Lil Rounds.  First, she looks beautiful.   Best performance of the night for me.  She's going FAR.  Far, I tell you. 

My picks are Lil, Scott, and either Jorge or Kristen.  I can't pick 3.  And you can't make me.

American Idol - Top 36 - Week 2

Before I start with the blogging, I'd like to say a little something about the way Idol is going this season. 

Ahem.

I CANNOT BELIEVE THEY ARE ONLY PUTTING 3 PEOPLE THROUGH EACH WEEK!!!!!!

I feel better now.  Well, not really, but what can you do?

THIS. is A-MER-ican Idol.

Jasmine Murray - "Love Song" I think the 2nd half was better, but it didn't blow me away.  Not crazy about the song choice.  And girlfriend can SING, so I hate it for her.  Daniel says, Who's doing Ryan's wardrobe this year?  I agree, it's looking a little casual.

Matt "Dueling Piano Player" Giraud - "Viva La Vida"  Not great.  A little rough.  Maybe he should stick with the piano? Per Paula, he did bring what he brought.  (Whaaa?)

Jeanine Vailes - "This Love"  I don't remember her from earlier shows.   Am I the only one?  Hate the short shorts with the jacket.  Not loving it.  Not good.  Ok, everybody has complimented her on her legs first.  Bad sign.

Nick "Norman Gentle" Mitchell - "And I'm Telling You"  Oh gracious.  There really are no words.  He called out Neil Patrick Harris in the middle of the song!   Doogie!  Y'all, he is really funny and cracks me up, but he doesn't belong on Idol. 

Allison Iraheta - "Alone"  Best song choice so far.  Best performance so far too.  Although that's not saying much considering, I think she's great.  Loved it.  She's a little weird.  But I loved it!

Kris Allen - "Man in the Mirror"  Last week they said not to mess with MJ.  Uh oh.  Dude can sing, but I don't love the song choice.  Good job though.

(can they please leave the names up a little longer than 1.5 seconds?)

Megan Joy "Single Mom" Corkrey - "Put Your Records On"   Three notes in and Daniel says "She's already better than the rest of them."  Good song for her.  It was ok for me.  That little twisty dance she kept doing was bugging me.  Totally agree with Simon, the first part of the song was better. 

Matt  "the Welder" Breitzke -  sounds like a WWF name "If You Could Only See"  I really like him.  OK  job.  Weird song choice though.  Kind of boring.  (I totally said all that before the judges!)

Jesse Langseth - "Betty Davis Eyes"  This song brings back memories of being at my friend Mandy's house.  I guess we listened to it.  Anyway, I thought it was ok.  I like her voice.  She's cool AND she's too cool for school. 

Kai Kalama - "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted"  Just ok.   I hope he makes it because I think he can do better.  The fact that he takes care of his sick mom just endears him to me.  I'm a sap.  I admit it.  And I embrace it.  

Mishavonna Henson - "Drops of Jupiter"  I don't like this song.  But girlfriend can sing.   Hopefully she'll get another chance. 

Adam Lambert - "Satisfaction"   Looking forward to hearing him, so hope he doesn't disappoint.  There's something about that I didn't like.  He's no David Cook.  He has a good voice but I didn't like the performance. 

My picks: Allison, Kris, and Adam

I'm off to watch LOST.

American Idol - Top 36, Week 1

So after my difficulty with blogging lately I decided to just stick with what I know. And after homeschooling and chocolate chip cookies, that would be TV.

Because who really wants to read a post about homeschooling or cookies? I mean, maybe read a post about homeschooling while eating cookies. Sure, yeah. But that might be hard to organize, so I'll just go with TV, 'k?

And it's Tuesday so you know what that means.

THIS is A-MER-ican Idol!

(Who else thinks Cara (Kara?) looks like Katherine McPhee?)

Well, Paula is starting the evening off with her well-thought-out comments as usual. Apparently if you are the best this year you will be going home. Now that's a different way to go.

Tonight's theme: Hits from the Billboard Top 100 Since the Charts Began (aka the longest theme title EVER)

Jackie Tohn: "A Little Less Conversation" Oh bless her, she's rockin' the tight spandex and what looks to be old school Air Jordans. With a strapless polka dot top. Not crazy about that performance or song.

Ricky Braddy: (from NC! Seriously don't remember him!) "song by Leon Russell, no idea what the title is" Loving the velour jacket. I'm pretty sure I haven't seen him before but he was GOOD. I LIKE him. He's representin' well. Thanks to Paula for clearing that up---I'm not crazy---he wasn't featured in earlier shows.

At this point, Daniel walked in and wanted me to rewind and maybe add his own color commentary to the blog. And I said, "Honey if you want to do color commentary, get your own blog Sure, Honey!" So I'm watching Jackie again and it is not pretty the second time either. Just FYI.

(Is Randy wearing a scarf?)

Alexis Grace: "Never Loved a Man" Girl's got some pipes. Maybe next time she'll wear a skimpier dress or something. And some red lipstick. All that aside, I like her voice and her cute little hair cut. Even the pink.

(Hey, Doogie Howser!)

So far, nothing from Daniel except sarcastic comments. If you know Daniel this doesn't surprise you AT ALL.)

Brent "Dimples" Keith: "Hicktown" Good performance, dude's got stage experience. Like it a lot. Cara says take more risks. Good advice. Careful talking back to the judges there, Brent.

Stevie Wright: "You Belong With Me" (she has your earrings, Faith!) The beginning is rough. And the middle. Ooo and the end. Not good. Really not good. Peanut gallery Daniel says Simon was too brutal. She's just 17.

Anoop "Dog" Desai: "Angel of Mine" (From NC, too! Chapel Hill.) Other half says I just don't think I can pull for a Tarhole. Although I do like that a Tarhole is being called Anoop Dogg. He's a State grad. I LIKED it. I'm just surprised when that voice comes out of that body. Tarheel or not, I like him.

Hey guess what. I'm totally eating chocolate chip cookies. AND MILK!

Casey Carlson: "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic" What up with the faces? Not good. Oh honey. I can't watch. She's got good hair though. And a sweet mama.

Michael "Roughneck" Sarver: "I Don't Wanna Be" A little rockin' arrangement of it. I like the One Tree Hill theme song. Not sure about this version. I like him though. Not sure this was a good pick for him. Watch the judges totally disagree with me.....nope. However, I think he's probably safe. D commented on the microphone thing before Paula.

Ann Marie Boskovich: "Natural Woman" That was ok I guess. Not crazy about it. Ted Danson gave her a standing ovation. Simon compared her to a hotel singer. And then bashed the studio audience. Nice.

Stephen "Forget the Words and Walk off the Stage" Fowler: "Rock With You" Hubs says they're gonna say you can't touch Michael Jackson songs. I say it depends how well he sings it. Not all that great I'm afraid. There you go, Hubs, Paula said it. He's there by himself? Oh that's cold, man.

Please don't let Tatiana talk. Please don't let Tatiana talk. Please don't let Tatiana talk.

Are they seriously only taking 3 from this group? I already like way more than 3! Oh no!

Tatiana Del Toro: "Saving All My Love" Can't touch Whitney! Somebody has GOT to take that nasty florescent pink lipstick away from her. I've been telling her from the beginning and she isn't listening to me. Not great. I didn't like it. Weird. Where's the Tatiana we know and um, know? Who gave her the Prozac? THERE'S the laugh. And there's the talking.

Danny "The Widower Whose Friend Totally Should Have Made It Too" Gorkey: "Hero" I seriously love him. LOVE HIM. AND he's a church music leader. Let's just make him the winner now, ok? He did good. Master of the understatement. I actually clapped. Oh, Simon. Come on. Drink the Kool-aid.

Well, that's it. I'm off to vote for Danny once or 24 times.

My picks: Danny, Anoop, and Alexis.

Jennifer. OUT.

Beijing Baby!

I'll admit it.

I love the Olympics. I mean, LOVE them. I'm pretty sure I always have. From the Opening Ceremonies to the Closing Ceremonies, I watch it all.

And I don't discriminate either. I love the summer AND winter Olympics equally. Swimming to ice skating. Gymnastics to skiing. LOOOOOVVVVVE it all.

The stories behind the athletes inspire me and make me cry. There's always some precious young person with a tear-jerker of a story to touch your heart.

News people travel to the city for the duration and report on customs and cultures of the host country. Everyone is so excited and proud for the Olympics to be in their country. I still could kick myself for not going to Atlanta in '96 to try to see SOMETHING. I have a friend from high school who went to Atlanta that summer and volunteered! Wow! Why didn't I know you could even do that?

So guess what I'll be doing on 8-8-08? Yep, my TV will be stuck on NBC for weeks and I'll be introducing my children to my joy that is the Olympic Games. Yippee!!

*After I wrote this I got an email from AFA and Voice of the Martyrs. They are offering free prayer bracelets to help you remember to pray for persecuted Christians in China, especially during the Olympics. Because there are most definitely persecuted Christians there. Here in the land of the free and home of the brave, we sometimes forget that our fellow Christians in other countries don't have the very freedoms that we take for granted every day. I ordered a bracelet and plan to wear it along side my Brazil bracelet to remind me daily to pray for others.

Want to join me?