Let's go back to Day 1

Day 1 was the day of firsts. First time on a plane was how we started the day. She did pretty well for a kid. Not just a kid but a 2 year old.
No screaming or crying and just the occasional outburst of demand that a toddler becomes the master of. The stewardess kept her pretty occupied at times.





After we landed, it was a quick "first tram" ride to get the luggage then head out to get the car "first rental car?". That was kind of a mess in itself because they basically let you loose in a garage with maybe 3 other car rental places and tell you to find the car you like. Not only do you have to try to figure out what car fits the criteria of your rental agreement, but you have to stay within your rental company. It feels a bit like getting ready to steal a car. Once you pick the car , you drive it to the front and hope you picked right. Car seats were a bit odd as well. They were basically all in a pile and you just picked randomly. Took nearly 20 minutes just to figure out how the darn thing went in. We grabbed a quick bite to eat then headed off to check-in to our cabin. Everyone was tired so we closed all the curtains and laid down to sleep, but Addison was so geared up at this point that she just ran from one end of the cabin to the other sounding a bit like a heard of buffalo for what seemed like over an hour. I dozed here and there only to awaken by her loudly announcing that everyone was sleeping. Greg and I decided we needed to do some grocery shopping and left Grammy to contend with her while we were gone. We were actually hoping she'd crash since there wouldn't be so many distractions. That seemed to work. I think we actually had to wake her up because we were all anxious to start our magical journey!






Next "first" was a bus ride to catch a "first boat ride" to the "first trip to the Magic Kingdom" where we met our "first big head character"! Right off the bat as we entered, Pluto was doing meet & greets. It wasn't very busy so we went over. It went much better than I could ever have imagined. Addison was a little slow to warm up, but eventually we had her giving him kisses and the akward side hug. Chip and Dale were around the corner so she met them too but I don't think she's as familiar with their characters as Pluto...or "pludog" as Addison calls him. After that we headed back to Fantasyland where all the rides for younger kids are. She rode Dumbo, the carousel and It's a Small World. Somewhere in there we stopped near Ariel's Grotto where the have a small water area where the water squirts up from the ground, trickles down sides of rocks and leaps from boulder to boulder. She got drenched, but I think that was her favorite of all!

-- Post From My iPhone

Disney Day 2

Today we started the day after a well rested night. It's amazing how much sleep you lose the night before a vacation. You'd think you'd sleep okay since you're going on vacation, but no. Worst sleep ever! Maybe because you're worried about making it to your destination.

Anyway, started off getting my $75 gift card for my birthday that Walt Disney gave me. THANK YOU DISNEY! I'll use it wisely! Then we got on the train to ride back to Mickey's Toontown Fair. Back there we went through Mickey's Country House and went on to meet Mickey and Minnie. Kind of a long wait, but Addison was a trooper and we finally made it. Got some great pictures which I'll have to post later, but no fear. Some of the pics look like they are holding her arms down - which they were. Addison was a tad nervous and her sucker thumb kept finding it's way to her mouth, so they had to hold her arms down to keep the thumb down. It has a mind of it's own.

Our next destination was teacups and made a pitstop to buy her first hat.


Next was the teacup ride and she LOVED it! The faster the better.










We got Fastpasses for Winnie the Pooh, and while i was getting those, a "surprise Fastpass" printed out for Mickey's Philharmagic. We headed over there right away since the passes were good for that time. For those of you who don't know, it's a 3D attraction where you watch a short movie with special glasses on and a barrage of things get tossed at you, spin in front of you and they also use scented air and water to enhance the effects. It's a fun attraction and one you shouldn't miss. Well, surprising to me, this was the first attraction Addison did NOT like! She jerked everytime something came at her and finally got so fed up she took her glasses off and didn't put them back on for the remainder of the movie. Ah well. Maybe next time.

After that was the Pooh ride which she DID enjoy. Not as much as the teacups, but clearly not worse than the previous ride. After that it was time for a nap, so we all boarded our boat and came back to the cabin. Now everyone is sleeping and I'm waiting to finish my birthday celebration. Everyone has been very nice in wishing me a Happy Birthday!

More later and I'll also write about our first day full of firsts soon. I'm typing on my phone and that just takes some time. My battery is running low too. :)
That's it for now!!

Post From My iPhone

Top 4 Boot off

I think there comes a point in a cougar's life when she can no longer perform on stage like she did when she was just a baby cougar. While I was impressed with Paula's dancing ability and limberness(?) - loved the flippy thing - - I was sorely disappointed that she didn't actually sing. How lame.

Thank you Gwen Stefani for being a true performer and singing live, jumping around and out of breath, I appreciated the performance because she was wholly putting herself into it. Bravo Gwen. You are a REAL artist. I guess I should give some credit to Slash at this point too since he was obviously live too, but he doesn't have to deal with the out of breath issue.

Now to the boot off. Seriously?! Kris is safe? Oh my. I'm only surprised that Allison is going before Kris. She should have been in the top 3 even if she drove me nuts, but it's time. This is a respectable time for her to go.

TOP 4!

1. Adam - "Whole Lotta Love" - a true rocker, I can imagine he is totally in his element this week. Not my favorite performance of his. I like it better when he's his calmer self. Not the rock Adam. Not my kind of music, but he did well for what it was.

2. Allison - "Crybaby" - Again, not surprised that she'd do well during rock week. She's a rocker at heart, I think. Overall, not the best. It was okay. The fact that she's taking everything so personally just proves that she's not mature enough for this competition. She needs to go now before she gets too deep.

Not crazy about the duet. I don't think Kris did very well at ALL, and they certainly don't compliment each other singing. Not sure what the purpose of the duet was for. Killing extra time maybe? Why aren't they singing 2 songs anymore? Didn't we do that last year around this time?

3. Kris - "Come Together" - I do think it's time for Kris to go. He doesn't even compare to any of the others. Didn't my Carly Smithson sing this last year? Ah, I miss Carly. I'm bored with this one. He's going home. I will say, it was better than the duet performance.

4. Danny - "Dream On" - Ah Danny. I'd have to agree with Randy...it was 'alright', but it wasn't great. He deserves props for trying. Adam could have hit those notes, but a little too ambitious for Danny. I had a total flashback to Elliot Yamin for some reason while he was singing this song.

I LOVE playing "Slow Ride" on Guitar Hero!!! Imagine me air Guitar Heroing right now. This was a much better duet than the first one.

By the way, I went back to the archives of seasons past and I hardly remembered many of them. How quickly we forget. I only remembered some of them for troubles they have had recently like Jessica Sierra being on Celebrity Rehab. Sad, really.

BOOT OFF - Top 5

I would like to have seen the contestants dressed a little more appropriately. I mean, I know it's the boot off show, but for these kinds of songs they really should all be in suits, not plaids and ripped jeans (Kris!). You are still performing afterall.

That poor chocolate cake. What a shame. And really? $6000 to clean? I wanna be that cleaning company. That's a rip off.

Taylor Hicks looks great! I know there are a lot of you out there who don't like Taylor, but I still do. And how many other contestants have you seen play the harmonica? I enjoyed it and you are probably cringing, but I still appreciate his uniqueness and his personality.

Kris gets saved before Adam? Hm, Interesting.

Paula - please put those things away! Doesn't matter how you squish them or where you push them...nobody wants to see that.

Do we actually know what Jamie Foxx sounds like? He sounds like he is singing through a kazoo through the whole song. I've heard the cipher used in other songs by other singers and it's like the musical fad of the day, but I don't usually hear it through the entire song. Reminds me of Madonna's most recent albums where she sings over herself and it doesn't sound natural anymore. Boo. I didn't like it.

Anyway, so Matt is going home. It's been a good show Matt.

Top 5!!

It's hard to believe it's almost over. Only 3 more weeks left?! Next week, then we'll be in DisneyWorld the next week - but you better believe I'll be making time to see the show! And then the week we come back - get ready for the AI partay, my friends! (Just ignore the layer of dust and if you need a snack, I'm sure you'll find some goldfish and cheerios in any corner).

Rat Pack songs, eh? Jamie Foxx, eh? Hmmmm. We'll see how badly they can butcher these songs. I'm not sure I like the themed weeks. I mean, I guess there is some novelty to it, but I haven't seen anyone stand out in any particular genre, and frankly, I don't get the point. I can see maybe Matt coming out this week since he's been the underdog and I think this might be closer to what he should be singing.

1. Kris - "The Way You Look Tonight" - Kris, my man...your sad attempt at a moustache scares me. You remind me of high school when the boys were trying to grow facial hair. Yuck. So, overall, it was okay but he didn't blow me away. The beginning was very slow and a little boring but he pulled it through the end, but I was expecting a little more. I think the others will do better. Maybe I was distracted by the wooly worm under his nose. Oh, and I totally got the "wet" comment Simon made. When he said that, I was like, "yeah, that's it". (sorry kathleen) :)

2. Allison - "Someone to Watch Over Me" - was it just me or did she look terrified when she was in the crowd before the break? She doesn't look so crazy with the outfits this week either. Okay, I know that I've been dogging her for the last few weeks, but I will admit if she does put out an album, I'd be likely to purchase songs off of it, if not the whole album. I don't have to watch her or listen to her talk...just listen to her music. She did a good job this week. It was better than Kris.

3. Matt - "My Funny Valentine" - I'm surprised to not see him behind the piano tonight. This would have been a perfect song to do that with. This was one of his best weeks. Not sure it's enough to save him. Somebody's got to go right? It was good, but was it the best? Good enough to keep him in? I've been surprised so far. Poor Matt though. You can tell he put his heart into it and the comments overall were not great. Simon pulled through though. Matt deserved the credit.

4. Danny - "Come Rain or Come Shine" - hhhhoooootttnesssss. Mmm. I will say that he was quite flat at the beginning. But he pulls through. He always pulls through. I do enjoy me some Danny. The crowd goes nuts too. Whoever I was talking to that thought it was going to come down to Adam and Kris, NO WAY! I'm willing to put money on that.
Did somebody slip Paula some sense-making drugs? She's actually giving solid advice tonight. She's not stumbling or being all crazy (yet).

5. Adam - "Feeling Good" - Poor Adam, being last. He's got some big shoes to fill. Everyone has done a stellar job. Even Jamie Foxx did a better job than I expected. Did Adam wear this suit a few weeks ago? Hm. I thought it was good. He is consistent and delivers a show. I can't fathom what kind of album he'd be putting out. He seems so much more Broadway to me. He does seem much more tame to me these past few weeks too. Maybe it's the themes, but I haven't seen him go rocker for awhile.

This was a much better show than I anticipated. It was the best week by far for me.

2 get voted off tonight

I think Paula still has the moves. She also looks decent as long as her clevage isn't showing.

I'm totally annoyed that they are lip syncing again. What's the point of the microphones? Is this a singing competition or a dance competition. I appreciate the work they put into it, but I'm watching the show for singing. I want to hear them sing. I did not hear them sing. Boo!

YAY! Lil is gone! That was a quick dismissal, but why drag it out anyway. We all knew it.

Um. Yeah. So they bring these singers of disco-days-past...I'm wondering if they've performed at all in all that time. The first chick - sorry, I don't know who that was, but she was terrible. I thought when she was doing that crouchy dance that we were going to see a moment where she'd have to be picked up off the ground, but the lady did alright. I did not need to see her boobs almost come out of her dress when she did the looooow bow. The second chick was okay, but damn that was a short dress AND her boobs were poppin out the top! I wouldn't care to hear KC except his background singers pulled him through that song. What a goofy looking man.

I'm still glad David Archuleta didn't win idol.

Poor Anoop. I knew the end was near and wish it would have been Allison, but I'm not terribly surprised. Good Job Anoop.

Top 7 - again

1. Lil Rounds - "I'm Every Woman" - Okay, I was close last week, wasn't I? Come on. It didn't deserve that much applause. Why does she look so weird this week? She also looks very irritated with the criticism. Will she talk back? Hmmm...Paula says, considering she had no voice yesterday, she sounds good today? I don't really think that's a compliment. She's gotta go. All she can sing is R&B. That's all she cares about and that's all she sings. boring.

2. Kris - "She Works Hard for the Money" - Everyone should be worried Disco week. I'll give him credit for making it sound different and making it his own. Is that really a disco song? It didn't even come out until 1983. Donna Summers was a disco queen, but this wasn't really disco music, was it? When did disco die?

3. Danny - "September" - I wish he would have mixed this song up a bit. It wasn't the best that he's done. Just average for me tonight...but he looked hot! Adorable. He's not going anywhere.

4. Allison - "Hot Stuff" - Donna Summers again? Weren't there other disco artists? I dunno. What the hell is Paula saying tonight? "Compromise is not in your vocal vocabulary"? Huh?

5. Adam - "If I Can't Have You" - Interesting choice. It was flawless and brilliant. He's unbeatable. At this point I really think he could take the whole thing.

Let me say close-ups of Paula and high-definition television are NOT a good match.

6. Matt - "Staying Alive" - I'm over Matt. Even thought I wasn't ever "in" to him. I want to say he did better than last week, but I'm not even sure of that. He's definitely an underdog and I could definitely see him going home.

7. Anoop - "Dim All the Lights" - Oh, no. Anoop DAWG! That was terrible. I think he knew it too. That was too high for him. I didn't like the song choice at all. The judges weren't too hard on him, but in this case Simon agrees with me.

Seriously...what would the 70's have been without Donna Summers?

Article : Will your favorite shows make it to the Fall lineup?

Here's a link to an article about plans for the Fall lineups. Check out and see if your show will survive.

Click here --> FALL TV SHOWS

I haven't heard of or seen most of the ones on the chopping block. I'm a little concerned for some shows on the bubble. Cold Case and Rules of Engagement are 2 that I like! It's increasingly hard to watch Cold Case (CBS!!) because whenever I DVR it, about 80% of the time I miss the episode and the end of Amazing Race is playing where my Cold Case should be (CBS!!). I'm highly irritated by that and don't think it's fair. You (CBS!!) are killing a good show! How can we watch it when it's constantly being bumped for sports???!!!! CBS, you SUUUUCKKKKKKKK!

Boot off show

Have I mentioned that I hate the singing/dancing bits? Almost as much as the music videos.

Anoop in the bottom 3. Should I be surprised? Probably not, but he didn't do badly. Lil...well, duh. And I'm not surprised either about Matt. That outfit looks horrible on Lil.

Thank goodness Anoop got to sit down. I really don't care which of the two left gets the boot.

I hate Miley Cyrus too.

While I'm making my way through her song, I'm looking for pictures of Matt in case he gets kicked off...right away I come across 2 albums he's put out! What the? Isn't it amazing how these things surface when they start to get popular. Didn't they eliminate a top 36 contestant because she had a previous record deal?

*SIGH*

I did not want Lil to go through and torture me for another week. Alas, that's not the case. I'm very glad they finally used their save though. 2 people going home next week...FOR CERTAIN one of them has to be Lil. I hate to say the other will probably be Matt, but at least he gets another week. We'll see what Disco Week brings. More bad song choices too. Anyone want to take bets that Lil will sing "I Will Survive"? Huh? Huh? Any takers? I'd like to see Adam do a Village People song like "Macho Man" or something. Whaddyasay? Oh, this is going to be good.

Top 7

Quentin Tarantino? Really? Movie music? Really? Could this possibly be the worst week ever? I can imagine Adam might do the best this week. Let's see.

1. Allison - "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" - very weak beginning. She hit the notes later, but this is the first time I've actually heard her braces or retainer or whatever. Didn't care for it. Simon says she's the "girls only hope"...but there are only 2 left.

Uh, okay...what the hell does Quentin Tarantino know about music? He's a director. Of movies. Not music.

2. Anoop Desai - "Everything I Do, I Do For You" - This song is so completely overdone, but how many good movie songs are there out there, really? Fair enough. It was good. He did well. Not sure it will keep him out of the bottom 3, but he looked like he was finally feeling the music.

3. Adam - "Born to be Wild" - of course! Why didn't I think of that? He seems to pick the strangest songs and songs that anyone else singing would sound ridiculous, but he makes it good! I thought maybe he might be doing "Supermassive Black Hole" from the Twilight soundtrack...but it might be too soon for that still. He picked the perfect song for him. Could he possibly bring hard rock (big hair band music) back to life?

4. Matt - "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman" - again, overdone. Playing the piano is probably a good move. That's the only thing that makes him different. Someone at work said he probably appeals to the younger crowd because he looks and sounds a bit like Justin Timberlake. I'd have to agree, but that also makes him a bit copycat-ish and not too unique. He's good and not hard to listen to, but immediately after he performs I forget. He tried hard on this song to be different.

5. Danny - "Endless Love" - Love the song...love the movie. Danny, put your sexy glasses back on. I'm too distracted by your glittery eyes. Loved it. He always looks confused by what Simon says.

6. Kris - "Falling Slowly" - don't even know this song. B-O-R-I-N-G. I think he'll be bottom 3.

7. Lil - "The Rose" - Come ON! No way. Hated it!! It was terrible. Go home. Now. I think SHE'LL be going home tomorrow. I don't like the sass back either. Give it up. I'm seriously irritated with her now.

Boot off

Aw...good old Frankie Avalon. Still a cutie. Simon, who are you kidding trying to convince us that you'll actually be turning 40 this year, not 50? Come on.

Still hating the group performances. Hope the solos are better. I guess I shouldn't complain considering they sounded much more "live" this time and not pre-recorded. I can only tell because it sounded crappy. :)

I can't help but wonder why Paula has gloves on. There must be a reason...this isn't exactly an elbow-length glove occasion.

Anoop is in the bottom 3.

Okay...I liked this Flo Rida song when it came out, but for the last 2 weeks, every show he's been on he sings this song. Is it getting a little too much exposure? A little. Still gets my toes wiggling though and a guy throwing money rolls at her. I don't remember the original version being about a stripper on a pole. Of course it's not without it's inuendos, but if you heard what he's actually saying...well, I'm surprised they'd show it on prime time except that you can't understand the words. Oh, Fox: sweaty, muscular, black men do not mix with paper streamers.

Rats, Lil's not going home. I wasn't surprised at Scott, but frankly it was a little sad. At least he couldn't see them talking about him. (was that mean?) I'm guessing that because Kara and Paula are up and dancing they decided not to use their save on him. He looked so sad. Oh well. I don't think we'll see the last of him just yet.

AI: Top 8

Feeling much better this week and I have delicious cheddar biscuits from Red Lobster in my belly, so I'M READY!! Let's do this!

1. Danny - "Stand By Me" - Love this song. As usual, a great performance...though a little weak at the beginning. Also I'm not crazy about the jazzy version, but he's a good singer. Um, Danny, please make up your mind if you want a goatee or not, but I don't like the horseshoe under your lip.

Lookie:



2. Kris - "All She Wants to do is Dance" - I don't think he'll go anywhere this week, but not my favorite performance. Kinda boring, but he's good. Hated the arrangement. Paula, is melodically a word? Simon, you're sounding like a broken record..."indulgent" come on. I didn't think so...but I'll agree it was a bad song choice.

3. Lil - "What's Love Got to do With It?" - Leeahl. That's how you say it. Get it right. Now...Tina Turner? Predictable. What's next week, Whitney Houston, Mary J Blige? Don't be so predictable Lil. Bored. Good Tina impression though. I'm done. Addison liked it though. She says "I need more again. More song." Paula was spot on about her being bigger than what she's been choosing. It was karaoke-ish.

4. Anoop - "True Colors" - He's humble. I like that. Might be my favorite performance of the night. It helps that I love the song anyway. It was beautiful.

5. Scott - "The Search is Over" - His mom looks so young! Unfortunately, Scott looks like he just walked out of the 80's. Not sure if that was intentional, but I'm thinking not. I kinda liked the electric guitar bit - albeit short. Wasn't great and could send him home. Kara was completely ambivalent. 'It was good, but it was bad. You had good moments and not so good moments'. That really says nothing. I don't think it was as atrocious as Simon says...I thought it was an interesting try. Randy was right "it was all just okay".

6. Allison - "I Can't Make You Love Me" - Oh man. Could it be that she's seriously young enough to be a child of mine? *Shudder* That sucks. I know, everyone out there feels my pain tenfold. I hate the constant reminders that I'm getting older. Guess that starts happening after you hit the 30 mark...which I did a few years back. Mm. Back to Allison. Good song choice, horrible outfit! What the hell are you wearing and why didn't they give you a mirror? I thought they were dressed by people! Somebody is having a snicker in the back of the stage. Much to my dismay it was good and she won't be going home either. Simon says "you should talk more" so we can get to know her personality...NO!!!! Don't speak!

7. Matt - "Part Time Lovers" - Hey! A fellow Taurean! Um. Yeah. Not so much. It was good in parts, but I didn't like the growlies and overall I didn't think it was great. Judges were nuts. I think they're just tired. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised to see him in the bottom 3.

8. Adam - "Satisfaction" (is that what he sang?) - He has such amazing control of his voice. It was eerie and once again, unforgettable. I thought it was beautiful. I might have to check this one out on iTunes...which by the way are now studio recorded and worthy of your purchases. I even heard Megan Joy's from last week and it was good. Her live performance not so much. Simon gave him a standing ovation it was that good.

My bottom 3 picks: Lil, Matt and Kris? Scott? Not sure. I think it's maybe Matt's turn to go home.

Bootsy wootsy

Okay...the impressions were cute at first, but then it got a little annoying and inside-jokish. Boring.

I also hate the shuffle that Ryan does. We do this every year and it's dumb and unnecessary.

David Cook was amazing. Speaking of, I read an article earlier that he had cancelled parts of his tour to take care of a "family situation" and asked for privacy. Word has it that he spent time with his brother.

Hoping Lady Gaga is a one hit wonder...but a pink bubble filled piano might be kind of cool. This kind of music doesn't last...thank god.

Not sure Anoop needed to be in the bottom three. Darn another week with Allison. But not all that surprised about Megan. Ah well. Perhaps we'll hear some interesting things come out of the studio with her. She needs unique songs for her unique style to really shine, not just singing songs that she likes to sing...and frankly isn't that good at.

AI: Top 9

Don't feel much like blogging since I haven't felt well the past few days and Addison suddenly came down with some illness overnight and I had puke duty. I'm exhausted from lack of sleep, lack of food, dehydration...and not feeling very creative. So, I'll be brief.

1. Anoop Desai - I didn't like the song or the performance. His look is improving a bit and I thought his stage performance was better.

2. Megan Joy - The song she sang is still not along the lines of what she should be singing, and again I'm left unimpressed. Where did the eclectic singer I liked go? Not feeling it, Megan.

3. Danny - good as usual...though not my favorite song. That's what makes this NOT my favorite performance of his. Ah well, we'll see what next week brings.

4. Allison - looks reedikulus. Go home. The instrument didn't help either. Somebody needs a metronome.

5. Scott MacIntyre - not bad, but it's nearly time for him to go. I like him, but we all know he won't win. He really doesn't have the vocals.

6. Matt Giraud - I didn't like it. Paula was right, it wasn't really him.

7. Lil Rounds - Holy smokes. I thought when I first saw her that she looked gorgeous tonight, but that dress...not flattering. Song was weak at first, but she pulled through at the end.

8. Adam Lambert - I wouldn't expect any different.

9. Kris - Wow. Good job! But Kara? "I've got 3 words for you: That Is Artistry!" Seriously? Those are 3 dumb words. I was expecting something a little more profound than that. Nice try though. Still, Kris you might have been the best of the night.

Who's it gonna be? Who's it gonna be?

We've got Matt and Michael in the bottom three. I don't think Matt should be there, but Michael probably should be. Much to my dismay, Allison is still safe this week. I have a sneaking suspicion that it's going to be Megan. Now, I like Megan, but she did awful last night. What the...? It's Scott. Huh. I'm hoping it's Michael going home still. The suspense is killing me. I definitely thought Matt would be going back to his seat, but alas, it's Scott.

Can I just say here that that duet with Joss Stone and Smokey Robinson was terrible? I started fast forwarding about halfway through. It was painful. Ugh. I also have to say that Simon's tshirt looks like a cheap-assed undershirt that's been washed way too many times. Come on Simon.

See, now they have professional artists singing on the show and it's quite obvious that they are singing live...not singing along with recordings of themselves. I sing along to recordings too, does that make me a potential idol if I can sing along? Get real. Also, lately whenever I've heard Stevie Wonder performing, he doesn't seem to be on his game. He seems to struggle for his mic and the harmonica playing has been atrocious.

MICHAEL IS GOING HOME! Please, don't save. Please don't save. Oh, thank god, he didn't get the save. He's still a cutie though.

FOXNews.com - 'American Idol' Admits Pre-Recorded Vocals Used on Group Numbers - Celebrity Gossip | Entertainment News | Arts And Entertainment

FOXNews.com - 'American Idol' Admits Pre-Recorded Vocals Used on Group Numbers - Celebrity Gossip | Entertainment News | Arts And Entertainment

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“Due to extensive choreography and to balance their voices with open mics against a screaming audience, the Idols do sing along to their own prerecorded vocal track during the group performances only," Do they think it sounds better that they are singing along to their own prerecorded vocals? How ridiculous. I saw this about the performance last week, but his week you could really tell. I'm very upset that they've taken the amateur nature out of the group performance. As cheesy as they always are, I'm offended that AI thinks this is okay. Boo on you!

American Idol: Top 10

Okay, the obligatory "Motown Week"...we do it every year. I'm hoping they don't disappoint.

1. Matt Giraud - "Let's Get it On" - Well, Smokey was all full of compliments for him. I think he made a good choice playing the piano on this one. The tempo was very weird. Fast and slow. I also didn't like that the music was so soft in the background. I have to wonder if they were having mic problems. I wasn't impressed overall. He had good moments, but overall I didn't care much for it. (apparently the judges didn't agree with me)

2. Kris Allen - "How Sweet It Is" - Oh boy, he's consistently fell short of impressing me. Well, not bad Kris. Much better than Matt, I thought.

Paula actually looks halfway normal tonight. With the exception of the prom-y dress, as long as she's sitting, she looks good.

3. Scott MacIntyre - "Can't Hurry Love" - Ah man, who dressed him? Not nice. His hair is looking a little more tamed lately though so I'll forgive the pink pants...for now. Um...well, what can I say? I thought it was a good arrangement, but not the best performance. I can see him doing wonderfully in the studio. He's so cute when he's bouncy.

4. Megan Joy - "For Once In My Life" - Smokey said she's one of the most original performers they've had on the show. I'd agree. Not sure about this song though. Again, I think she'd do much better in a studio. She seemed like she was pushing this song too hard. I don't feel like we heard the Megan we've heard before.

5. Anoop Desai - "Ooo, Baby, Baby" - I don't think Anoop gets the credit he usually deserves. He has incredible control of his vocals. On the downside, I think he slowed this song down waaayyy too much. Although he performed well, it almost bordered on boring because it was so slow. He'll be alright though.

6. Michael Sarver - "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" - WTH? Paula pretty much thought it was horrible...strange. I didn't think it was that bad. Huh. I mean, certainly, again, not the best, but I didn't hate it.

7. Lil Rounds - "Heat Wave" - If I hear one more time "she could sing the phonebook", I think I'll scream. I mean, honestly. I don't like her look at all. The flapper dress looks silly. Not on board with the vocals either, but everyone loves her, so they'll probably disagree. Hm. Mostly all the judges agreed but Paula who thought she was amazing and looked amazing. I agree it was not the right song.

8. Adam Lambert - "The Tracks of My Tears" - Not sure I like the slick look. Just because you're singing Motown doesn't mean you have to wear the costume (Lil!). It was good. He's about the only one who really puts the emotion into his performances and songs. I really feel like he feels the song...at least he acts like it, which is his thing I guess - acting. I'm hoping he's genuine. I have a hard time reading him. How awesome to have Smokey stand up after his performance! The whole evening has been very disappointing and there isn't anyone I was ready to vote for...but he brought it back.

9. Danny Gokey - "Get Ready" - He owned the stage and did an awesome job. I can see this being a competition between Danny and Adam now. A real professional! I disagree with Simon "clumsy"? Whatevah.

10. Allison Iraheta - "Papa was a Rolling Stone" - pheh.

In summary, everyone sucked but the last 3. Not sure who will get kicked off after last week. I still can't believe they took Alexis out. I'm going to throw out Michael as my pick to go tonight.

Top 11 BOOTOFF

Ah man. I gotta listen to Allison for a little while longer.

Carrie Undersood isn't looking so much like skin and bones anymore which is a good thing...but maybe it's the dress. She was looking awfully sickly skinny though for awhile. I'm glad to see she's looking healthier.

I cannot BELIEVE Alexis was the bottom in voting. That's ridiculous. I think it definitely should have been Michael and how nerve-wracking to have to sing in front of the judges while they are huddling together trying to decide whether or not to keep her. I feel badly for her especially since they aren't really watching her. Apparently it didn't pay off...and I'm sorely disappointed.

Idol Top 11

So, I downloaded the iPhone app last week for American Idol. I can read everything I never wanted to. They also have confessionals each week (though yesterday it was still at week 1 - not sure I can wait a whole week for updates)...am I obsessed? Anyway, when you see the contestants speaking candidly about their experience I think it really makes or breaks them for me. Now, one person I wasn't crazy about was Adam Lambert, but after watching his confessional, he's growing on me. On the other hand, Allison is still wearing on my nerves.

1. Michael Sarver - "Ain't Goin' Down til the Sun Comes Up". Oh, Michael. That was atrocious. What can I say about it other than it was awful! He coulda picked any song he wanted...country is his genre, but I thought it was just terrible. I know it's a difficult song because it's so fast paced, but you could practically hear him gasping for air. He might be going home.

2. Allison Iraheta - "Blame it on Your Heart" - She may have a mature voice, but she's not. Sure, she's different and I like her voice, but her personality is like nails on a chalkboard. To add to her immaturity, those braces...I would think if you're going on a weekly televised competition, you might have those taken off for awhile. She looks like a little kid even if she doesn't sound like one when she sings. I still think her mom looks like Martha Stewart. I'm not sure precocious is good.

3. Kris Allen - "To Make You Feel My Love" - Garth Brooks is getting a run tonight. I'm not sure that it should really count if a country icon sang the song. This was not a Garth Brooks song. He just sang it and Kris wasn't even singing the same version, so isn't it really a Bob Dylan song and was Bob Dylan even a member of the Grand Ole Opry? Hm. He's probably still safe since he sounded good, but who doesn't sound good singing this song (except maybe Bob Dylan - obviously I'm not a huge Bob Dylan fan, but he was robbed for credit here).

4. Lil Rounds - "Independence Day" - Seriously, the only country music she's heard was from movies? Not sure I appreciate such a closed-minded musician. I like an artist who can appreciate and knows music from all genres. I don't like that they twanged up the song for her...not necessary and seems fake. The beginning was shaky and I think she only picked the song for it's strong chorus. But not the best choice. The judges were right that she could have picked any other song and been stronger. She could have. She certainly came across as uncomfortable and forced.

5. Adam Lambert - "Ring of Fire" - Um, Randy Travis quite obviously didn't like him. At ALL! Whew. That was akward. So, this was certainly Adam...but I might have nightmares. His Elvis persona came out in this song. Being different. It was funny how melodic some of it sounded, but then went right into creeeepy...but strangely I liked it. I didn't see Randy Travis' wife clapping and I thought that was kind of rude. It was still a good performance, odd as it was. I hope Johnny Cash would have been able to appreciate it for what it was. I dunno, the country followers can be quite closed. It's scary.

6. Scott MacIntyre - "Wild Angels" - I agree it was a weird song choice. I had a hard time hearing him at certain points, I think it was too low, but it certainly picked up. Not bad. He hasn't really blown me away yet though. Well, except for that whole playing piano and singing together thing. I'm impressed by that.

Oh, Paula...you are really getting too old to be wearing tops that low cut. You do not have an attractive chest...it's yucky. Put a sweater on and cover that stuff.

7. Alexis Grace - "Jolene" - who the hell thinks she looks like Dolly Parton? So, not. Brooke White sang this last year and I think I remember the judges hating it. This is a much better version. Good job Alexis! I don't think this is an easy song to sing...but she did an amazing job. Does Simon have some kind of attention deficit or something? Man, he's squirrely. Alexis seemed very annoyed by the judges criticism. I don't like when they talk back. Still.

8. Danny Gokey - "Jesus Take the Wheel" - Poor Danny, gettin all nervous with Randy T. It's cute he got all star struck. Interesting song choice, but he's good. I think he did very well. Even with the standard "pitch problems" he sounds amazing. Reminds me so much of David Cook last year. Just raw, natural talent. I love him, and I don't usually like male singers much, but I'd buy his albums. This might even deserve the actual CD so I can drool over the pictures in the insert! :)

9. Anoop Desai - "You're Always on my Mind" - Not bad Anoop...not bad. I think he'll be sticking around for awhile. I hope anyway. I like to hear him sing.

10. Megan Joy - "I Go Walking After Midnight" - Perfect song choice for her style, I think. She looked gorgeous too. Wonder what makes the contestants change their names. I mean, she goes from Megan Corkrey to Megan Joy Corkrey to Megan Joy. There were some really sharp notes, but considering she's sick, she did well. Still like her.

11. Matt Giraud - "So Small" - Interesting that the guys are picking all these chick songs. I'm a little annoyed that Carrie Underwood, Martina McBride and Garth Brooks are the top picks for the evening when there are so many amazing country artists and country songs. Maybe the pool of songs was small, but overall I'm disappointed with the evening. Disappointed with this song too. I really didn't care for this performance. I think it could potentially send him home, but I thought that last week too. I'm ready to see him go.

Michael Sarver or Matt Giraud - GO HOME!

Props to Megan, Adam and Anoop for being a little different.

Til tomorrow....

Me talk funny

Addison has been talking up a storm lately. About 90% of the time I can understand what she's saying (maybe 80%??). Her simple language is cute, but also makes me wonder why we have to cloud our language with extra words? Addison gets what she wants usually with simple sentences. "More cereal", "I need milk", "juice", "chocolate malt" or simply pointing at something and saying "more". She'll even say "tv on" when she's ready to watch a favorite show or "no!no!no!" if you try to watch something that you enjoy instead. That's pretty clear and doesn't need a bunch of extras for me to understand what she wants. "Help" is a word though we've been working on. She gets very frustrated when she can't do something and often throws a fit. We encourage her to ask for help before she blows her top, but that doesn't always work either. By that time she's so angry at what she couldn't accomplish and the novelty of it has worn off so she just ends up pissed. No one is happy then. We're also trying to teach her to say "potty", but that's a no-go for now. I'm hoping soon. Anyway, back the language thing. I think we have the weirdest language on the planet. It's such a mishmosh of words from other countries ~ which is, I guess, what makes up our country. It's what makes ours such an eclectic nation. It also makes our language the most confusing. Spelling is going to be a nightmare. I'm pretty good at it, but the nature of our language certainly doesn't make it simple. I think I remember as a child wondering why the word "of" was spelled with an "f" and not a "v" like it sounds. There doesn't seem to be any reason why it can't be phonetic. This all comes to light as we try to teach Addison the right names and expressions for things. I keep getting reminded of how many different ways there are to say the same thing and how confusing that can be. It's impossible to teach a 2 year old to talk! Why can't we just go back to the caveman language we started out with...grunting and pointing. I mean, they got by, right? They understood each other with just a handful of sounds. Maybe we should be removing words from the dictionary, not adding to it. We need less words, not more. Ponder. Later.

Top 13 BOOTOFF

Not sure what I think about this Judge Save thing. AI, we can only take so many changes. I'm so confused.
So, Jasmine. Really? I'm kind of surprised. I mean, I don't care for her much, but I didn't really think she'd be going home this soon. Ah well, she can go home, finish HIGH SCHOOL (!) and move along in life. Seriously, they need to raise the age limit.

Okay, so the judge save thing is sucking. The contestants are already crushed that America didn't vote for them, then they have to stand in front of the judges for the final judgement and to get a no...crushed again. Isn't this the 3rd let down for Jasmine alone? That's rough. Especially for a 16 year old.

Not surprised about Jorge much. Interesting. Didn't look like Paula was all that involved in the decision-making process dancing around while Jorge made his last performance.



Let's see how next week goes.

American Idol: Top 13

Top 13! I can't hardly believe we've made it this far! We're just that closer to the finale. Yay!

Here we go...

First order of business: What the hayell is Paula wearing? Feathers? She looks ridiculous. That out of the way, Michael Jackson? I have my doubts about this week. There are going to be some pretty dumb song choices I can tell already.

1. Lil Rounds - They seriously need to find some new clips of her. We keep seeing the same clips of her kids and hubby over and over. I wanna see something new!
"The Way You Make Me Feel" - Not as good as last week. I also really hate her outfit. It's like somebody dragged out their prom dress from 1985, cut it off and called it a top. I wasn't really that crazy about the song and it wasn't as good as the judges say.

2. Scott MacIntyre - "Keep the Faith" Yay! Piano! He's so cute. And he does much much better behind the instrument. Still not the best singer, but he'll make it a long way I think. Not sure he'll win, but he'll get far enough to matter. This was a good performance.

Is it me, or does it completely look like Paula's had some botox around the eyes? Something looks off. I think she tries to cover it up with her hair and makeup, but she is a little puffy or something. I'll bet you she'll have her hair up next week.

3. Danny Gokey - "PYT" Started off weak, I didn't like the a capella part. I hate this song. What the hell is a "tenderoni"? This was a terrible performance in my opinion. I mean, he picked it up after he got started, but I really couldn't hardly stand it. And I like you, Danny, I just wasn't feelin' it, dawg. And Paula - "going out on a limb" about Danny taking it all? Wooo. That's a hell of a limb there. DUH! Stupid that she picks this song to say it. Anyway, he's a cutie with loads of talent. We'll see you next week Danny. I heart you.

4. Michael Sarver - "You Are Not Alone" - Um...no. He's alright, but I'm b-o-r-e-d....zzzzzz. Boo. He might be going home tomorrow. Didn't do the song justice...it's such a nice song. I hardly recognized it. Wha??? Were the judges even listening to the same song? Ugh. They know nothing.

Looks like Paula's feathers are trying to choke her. Hmm.

5. Jasmine Murray - "I'll Be There" - She looks a little like Gladys Knight I think. Anyway. It was a good performance, but about midway through she fell a little flat. And the popping with the mic was driving me nuts. Wasn't the best for me...but again, I think she'll go through a couple more rounds.

6. Kris Allen - "Remember the Time" I can't even here his guitar. Was he really playing? It was a valiant effort, but what a weird song to pick. Another MJ song I'm not crazy about. He did alright, but it wasn't fabulous. Strange to dance around with a guitar. The foot moves seemed akward.

Paula's dress is falling apart.

7. Allison Iraheta - "Give in to Me" Different persona shown of her this week. Somebody musta told her to tone it down a bit. She was much more mature sounding in her interview and the song was rocking. Good job and she wasn't nearly as annoying as she has been. (Her mom kinda looks like Martha Stewart)

8. Anoop Desai - "Beat it" - His look is getting better. The stylist is doing him good. Singing...oh man. He may have blew it picking this song. He did alright, but "beat it"? I dunno. I don't think he's endearing enough to the public to be able to pull this off just yet.

9. Jorge Nunez - "Never Can Say Goodbye" - Is everyone in Puerto Rico related to Jorge? 40 some people...how many people actually live there? Okay, so the song was good. Maybe one of the better of the night. Not THE best. I'm still standing by the fact that I don't care for him...but he sings nice. :)

10. Megan Corkrey - "Rockin' Robin" - I don't really understand why these people come on saying they are doing this for their families and how much it pains them to be away from their families. What do they think is going to happen? They'll be on tour for at least 6 months, not to mention endless interviews and IF they win the competition it just gets worse. Anyway...this was a good song for her...she's so silly! Her weird dancing and the bird call at the end --- from anyone else it would irritate me to no end, but from her, it's just cute!

11. Adam Lambert - "Black or White" - what is it about him that I don't like? I dunno. The hair? The dramatics (theatrical dramatics, not the hysterical dramatics like the headband dude.)? The rocker stuff? I'm not a rocker girl. Still, he's good. He knows what he's doing. I'm usually impressed after he sings. 'Nuff said.

What is that nonsense hanging from Paula's arm?

12. Matt Giraud - "Nature" - Ah, man. A crying dad? He's a shoe-in this week. Another instrument dude. Nice. I like it. I mean, singing is one thing, but to coordinate your hands moving all different directions making pretty sounds AND sing is genius to me. This song seemed short to me. He did a good job though.

13. Alexis Grace - "Dirty Diana" - She just looks so tiny. A tiny package of talent. She's got the gumption of Carrie Underwood. She'll be one to make it to the top as well. Could it be Alexis and Danny? I dunno, we'll see. I hope the weird number doesn't hurt her.

Who's going home? Michael and Kris

Giggles for Quarters

A week ago, we went to Sam's Club. This is usually a trial because Addison is starting to really not like shopping trips to the store. Well, maybe it's more me. I'm sure she'd love to take over the store and run around and play with all the cool things on her level. I mean, why'd they put them there if they weren't to be played with, right? My concern is that people don't know to get out of her way. They don't know to expect a 2 foot tall human to come darting out of every aisle. They don't understand her irratic pattern of darting either. It's no fun to run in a straight line. Crooked is really the way to go. Adults seem to be irritated by this. They don't want to have to play a defensive lineman with their carts against a small child. Adults are not always up for games with children...especially in the grocery store. Anyway, getting back to Sam's. Because the items are generally huge and numerous, it takes awhile to get through the line which seems to be the most boring part of the trip. I try to entertain Addison, but again, she'd rather be running around people. This particular trip I noticed one of those coin things near the exit. It's the kind where you put a coin in and it travels around and around in loops down a drain of sorts. "Aha!" I thought. Addison might like that. I dig around in my wallet to find a quarter. Why a quarter? Couldn't I have picked a penny or a nickel? Seemed like cheaper entertainment, but for some reason I thought a quarter would be more fun to see circle the drain. That's where the rest of my money goes anyway, so why be stingy now? This time I have the satifaction of seeing it go down the drain. So...I give the quarter to Addison who neatly puts it in the plastic holder. I tell her to let go and she does. The quarter does as it should and circles around and around and around and around. Great big wide circles at the top and as it gets nearer the bottom it spins faster and faster making a cool kind of metal to plastic sound. You would have thought I'd tripped a clown she was laughing so hard! She found this incredibly amusing which brought tears to my eyes (darn motherhood hormones). Obviously I had to get another quarter out and try again. Same drill. Same result. Giggles galore. Pretty amazing contraption if I do say so myself. Those quarters twirled around for a long time! So, for 2 quarters I get 2 hysterical laughs from a child. I'd pay a million dollars to hear those giggles all day. Fifty cents is a bargain! P.S. You're welcome Children's Miracle Network for my donation. I'm sure we'll be seeing you again.

WILD CARD SHOW

1. Jesse - Tell Me Something Good - It was okay, but I don't care for the song.
2. Matt - Who's Loving You - Hm. He's got chops. Okay. I'm still lost on his personality though.
3. Megan - Black Horse and the Cherry Tree - I still like her even though she's probably not the best vocalist. She's one of those who is more about personality than singing
4. Von - Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word - horrible.
5. Jasmine - Reflection - better song choice, but she still doesn't appeal to me.
6. Ricky - Superstitious - This is always an ambitious choice, I think, whenever anyone decides to tackle it. He did a good job. Could he be in the top 12? Maybe.
7. Tatiana - Saving All My Love For You - ugh, ugh, ugh, argh! Oh, yeah...when did she suddenly get such a heavy accent. AND...why didn't she pick a new song? I'm getting a little tired of hearing her sing this one over and over and OVER again. Okay we get it...you can sing Whitney. That don't mean you can sing. I think she's trying to play the "different" card by bringing out that accent since it worked for Jorge. Only problem is - Jorge is real. Tatiana makes me hurt. Why do I think this isn't the last we'll hear of her?
8. Anoop - Perogative - Interesting song choice, but it showcased his vocals and shows that he's modern. He's good. I think he needs some time to grown on people...but he's a good possiblility.

Who'd they pick?

Jasmine, (don't agree), Megan (cheering!! yay), Matt (He's good) , and Anoop (Good pick). Thank GOD Tatiana did not make it through so the rest can be forgiven.

Week 3 Boot off show

This was by far the worst group yet. I can't tell you how happy I am that this nonsense of going through all 36 contestants is over. Lots of people have said that they don't like the new judge. I think I like her still. She's better than Paula and I think she's actually offered some good constructive criticism.

Here's who's made it through:
Lil Rounds - okay, she deserves it
Scott MacIntyre - of course! He'll probably do well if he gets to play his piano. I look forward to seeing what he does. I hope he does not do pop and sticks to the ballads and maybe folk genre. He would do well to perform similar to Brooke White last year...being that she did best with her instrument.
Jorge - eehhhh. I think it's the crying thing. I think you'll most assuredly make it through if you cry. Especially to the camera. I definitely think there are better singers than he. He won't last long.

Wild card. So, they pick 8 people to weed out again. This is torture. How many times do we have to go through the bad singers again?

Randy's picks: Von Smith (dumb choice), Tatiana (!) Oh, my GOD! Truly torture. I cannot stand her and I just got an instant headache. GRRR!
Kara's picks: Jasmine Murray (another dumb choice, they're wasting that spot), Matt Gareau (yeah, okay)
Paula's picks: Ricky Braddy (maybe), Jesse Langseth (not bad)
Simon's picks: Megan (the first GOOD pick, so far...love you Simon), Anoop (he was good too)

Very very very disappointed they didn't send through Felicia...she definitely deserved it more than Ta....I can't even say it. BOOOOO!

American Idol WEEK 3

First, let me tell you that I’m annoyed with the iTunes thing. You can buy the performances online. What they don’t tell you is that it’s the exact performance from stage. Last year, once they got to the top performers they started selling the songs on iTunes. I could appreciate it because it was generally the full version of the song and done in a studio. For that, I would pay 99 cents. This is a rip-off that they are charging the same for these short version, non-studio, non-seasoned singers versions of songs that already exist that you would pay for a full-length professional version from the original artist. Pass on these…they’re not that good yet. Boo to iTunes. I’m betting the performers aren’t getting royalties from any of the songs they sell.

1. Von Smith – I think he tries too hard. He’s good when he gets going, but he’s hard for me to watch. He just works too hard. Or rather, his face works really hard. It’s exhausting. This was not a good performance to me. I’m not even sure I even know this song. He always looks like he’s ready to start bawling too and that’s just going to annoy me. Nah. Pass. And I absolutely HATE when they act out their numbers. PLEASE stop doing that!
2. Taylor Vaifanua – Another high schooler…but she doesn’t look or act like one, so I can probably look past that. Her performance was good but not mind blowing. I don’t think she’ll make it. Is it possible that Paula actually made sense tonight? She was totally right! Wow. Taylor really needed to show how she could be different and that song was not “it”.
3. Alex Wagner-Trugman – He’s funny. Taking on an Elton John song is bold, but he did…just okay. I’m not sure he’s good enough to do that. He could be good too, but this was like an act for me. The entire performance he was trying to be something he’s not. And, um…he looks just like his dad…only younger. He’s goofy and akward enough to make it through (maybe).
4. Arianna Afsar – What’d they save all the teenagers for this show? Again, though, she doesn’t act like a teenager, so she’s okay. She’s cute and possibly good enough to make it through, but the song was incredibly akward and seemed like she sang it a little faster than the music, but once she gets over the nervousness, she’s good. I kind of hope she makes it through.
5. Ju’not Joyner – first of all, was he wearing handcuffs on his pants? I don’t get it. So, he’s a good singer, but I’m thinking the judges are going to think he sang it too slow. In a minute and a half, you really need to pick a song that can showcase your voice and when you’re singing it that slow I’m not sure there’s enough notes to do that. He pulled it off though. I shuddered when I heard he picked that song. Was a little shocked actually, but he did a great job. I can see him going through and lasting awhile.
6. Kristen McNamara – I love Tracy Chapman! Not sure can pull it off. She’s not soulful enough. I can tell she’s a karaoke host (?), is that what she said? Anyway, all I could picture was her standing on a tiny stage in a bar singing to a screen with words on it. She did okay, but I could pass on her.
7. Nathaniel Marshall – ugh. I don’t like drama. I especially don’t like people who are overly dramatic. Who told him the headband thing was any kind of look? Stop it. Just stop it. What was he thinking singing Meatloaf. No no no no no no. Please. No. Go away. I don’t need to say anymore. No chance he’ll make it through. Bleh. He was not good. They are all lying.
8. Felicia Barton – This chick was l.u.c.k.y. to get called back. She totally reminds me of Natasha Bedingfield. She’s very good. Had some tough spots, but she did very well overall I think. Might be my favorite of the evening.
9. Scott MacIntyre – Mandolin Rain. Good song. He’s good, but I’m not sure the best of the evening. He has a very good chance of making it through though. I think he could be an American favorite just because he’s such a good guy. I would very much like to see him play and sing with his piano. How cute is he?
10. Kendall Beard – peppy, blonde Texan. Don’t we have enough blonde country singers? Anyway, not the worst. Not the best, but she did pretty well. She’s at the top of the list of people to potentially make it through even though she had some note problems. It was very much like the original version and I think just about anyone can sing that song, not terribly special, but it was good.
11. Jorge Nunez – He was good. That’s all.
12. Lil Rounds – She is a great singer, but I’m not convinced that she appealed to the masses. It was a good performance. I’m not sure that R&B listeners are watching this show and won’t be voting, but I could be surprised.

My predictions: Scott MacIntyre, Felicia Barton and Ju’not Joyner (or maybe Jorge or Lil).

Boot off show

I don't agree. Here are the three that have been chosen to move on:
Allison Iraheta
Adam Lambert
Kris Allen
I'm not happy with Kris making it through. I'd like to have seen Megan make it through over him. Next time you watch him sing, notice his vampire teeth. I'm not kidding. It's not Vampire Idol, after all. Dang. I suppose Megan or Mishavonna could be a wild card, but there were better contestants from last weeks show I think.

I can already tell next week is going to be torture. There are so many more contestants that will annoy me to peices. I'm already concerned about Allison (from this week). She does sound very much like Miley Cyrus though with her unnaturally (for a 16 year old) smokey voice. Just sing and don't talk and I think we can get along.

Now, I think I'll go download Brooke White's song. She's still cute and quirky.

American Idol 2/25

Week 2 of the thinning out shows~only one more week of this right? It's almost painful to see all the people that aren't all that great. I'm not sure if I like this new format or not. It somehow seems unnecessary.

1. Jasmine Murray - Okay, this is a weird version of this song. Is that possible? Seems like she's about a 1/2 a beat slow. She's capable of so much more, but I don't hate it. She might have a chance, but not based on this performance. Also, I hate when they say "I had a great time" or "I had so much fun" in response to judges criticism.

2. Matt Giraud (aka dueling piano player) - we haven't seen him much. He seems sooo nervous. I want him to be better, I think he could be, but he's too wiggly with his voice. No control. Erg. Dude, you may be better sticking to the piano. Darn. Simon has it right...wasn't the right song and he should go with the more soulful songs.

3. Jeanine Vales - I don't remember seeing her AT ALL during the previous shows. This is not a song to show off a voice and it was a terrible performance. She's going home fer shur. You know Paula hates it when she can only compliment how she looks. She irritated me too with her comments back about how she's really a good singer. ome on. Everyone has been working hard. You ain't nuthin special. (was that mean? - well the more it goes on, the more she irritated me).

4. Nick Mitchell (aka Norman Gentle) - I'm not sure I get him. He's cute...but only when he's not Norman. I think it's the headband that creeps me out. Oh, I'm so confuuuused! He does so much better than most and he's not even really trying. Spot on. We'll see. I can't make any predictions here. And so humble afterwards. I kind of like him.

5. Allison Iraheta - No surprise, but I am slighly unimpressed with the teenage high school singers - especially when they show how immature they really are. Part of being an American Idol is your presence when you're not singing and I don't want to be annoyed by a teenager. Soooo, she's got a great voice and did a great job, so she's got a great chance. I pray she doesn't continue to annoy me if she makes it through. Um, yeah, and the silly faces - please stop so I don't have to yell at you through my tv.

6. Kris Allen - another I don't remember from Hollywood week. Started way too low for his voice. He was hard to hear and I sense his nervousness, but all hope isn't lost. Not sure he's the best, but it wasn't horrible. I don't think he'll be outstanding enough to make it through to the next round though. Nah. I'm not overly impressed.

7. Megan Corkrey - perfect song choice...plus I love the song, such a hard song to sing. She's a little quirky, but I like her a lot. Hope she's one to make it through. I could see some great performances from her.

8. Matt Breitzke - He's a cute burly kind of guy. I like him. He did a great job with his rocker style. He picked a good song. Let's hope he doesn't get lost in the shuffle and people remember him. Has potential for a wild card if he doesn't make it through this round. It was a clean performance, I thought. (The judges got it wrong this time).

9. Jesse Langseth - I remember liking her from Hollywood week. Tough song choice. It was a little shaky, but she's different. In a good way. Though, I would prefer to watch Megan over her and they have similar styles. I wish they would have put them in different groups. Again, I don't like the engagement of the judges. Just take the criticism and move on.

10. Kai Kalama - Boring song. I'm not crazy about him. He can go. Maybe I'm getting old, but I didn't like his look either. He seems in need of a bath or something. Not relavent, but he just doesn't appeal to me in the slightest.

11. Mishavonna Henson - hmm. She's got a natural, seemingly effortless talent. She's my favorite of the night. Nice. Not sure why the judges didn't care for it. I thought it was amazing.

12. Adam Lambert - He's got the "look", I guess...if you like that sort of look, but he pulls off that rocker thing. He's not been a favorite. He's too flashy and showy for my tastes. I like the more simple artists. Eh, whatever. I could see why he'd make it through, I'd just rather see one of MY favorites make it through rather than him. He's got a better chance outside of AI.

Video posting crazy!!

It seems I've been taking a lot of videos of Addison. A LOT! It seem so easy with the little flippy video camera. You just record and plug it in to your USB drive. How easy is that? I just wish YouTube wouldn't grainy them up so much. That video of Addison swimming - you can hardly see her through the pixels! I guess the videos would take up too much room otherwise, but still. That being said, I'll post another video of Addison tonight of her spinning wildly around the living room. She did this for about 20 minutes, just spinning and spinning then falling down. It was too funny! I love when she's acting goofy like that. She says "whoaaa" then sometimes (not in this video) after she falls down she'll say "Addison okay". Other times she just sprawls out on the floor spread eagle pretending to fall down. Ask her if she's okay and she says "I'm okay". Silly. I love it.

Addison's ISR refresher

Here's the newest installment of Addison's ISR refreshers. She's doing very well and seems to be enjoying it. She's learning to swim further under water and is flipping when she's supposed to.

Football?

Okay, I don't even like football. I mean, I really, really have a hate for football. I don't know why...but that's not important here. So, knowing that I don't like football and I'm posting a video relating to football, you know it's gotta be good, right? Enjoy.

American Idol BOOT OFF show

Okay, so I'm glad Danny made it through. I've already forgotten the others. The girl with the pink hair and some other dude, right? Well, that tells you what an impression they made on me. My prediction thusfar...I'm going out on a limb this time. I never predict a top 2 contestant this early on (we haven't even seen everyone yet!) but I'm going to say Danny. I think Anoop might be a wild card. All you people out there who leave it up to everyone else to vote - VOTE! There's no reason not to pick up the phone and dial a couple of times. It makes it fun!

AMERICAN IDOL 2/17

This is the first of (hopefully) several weeks of American Idol blogs...by ME!

Here's my take from AI (2/17/09)
1. Jackie - what was she wearing? It was okay, but I think she'll quickly wear on my nerves. Too silly.
2. Ricky Braddy - he was very good, but didn't stand out for me. And, duh, dude...learn to use a mic during interviews. We can't hear you!
3. Alexis Grace - (pink hair) sexy song, very well done. Bold to pull out with an Aretha Franklin song, but I think it was a good move for her.
4. Brent Keith - could he be cuter? Love the dimples...and from Blanchester? Local boy. That said, not too impressed with the country song. (but he was cute singing it). Sadly he'll be lucky to make it through to the next round, and won't be the winner.
5. Stevie Wright - she's cute. Started off rough. Didn't get much better. Here's the trouble, only Taylor Swift can sing Taylor Swift songs. Yuck. She's going home. Too bad. I wanted to like her.
6. Anoop Desai - he's good and has a good shot. He's like geeky cool. I like him. He's not what he appears...and I actually disagreed with Simon that time. I think it was a good song and nothing wrong with singing a song you like.
7. Casey Carlson - she couldn't pull off a Police song. Ughh. Boo for even trying. She'll be leaving soon ( I hope).
8. Michael Sarver - it was a little weird. He barely pulls it off, but he's cute, so he might make it through. The song wasn't great though. He could be good.
9. Ann Marie Boskovich - her nerves got to her at the beginning, and I never really was blown away by her. Nah. The song is overdone in this competition.
10. Stephen Fowler - weak start. He's got a good sound but that song was not all that special. If he gets A-Nother chance I think he could become quite good.
11. Tatiana - what can I say? Please please please do NOT vote for her. She's like nails on a chalkboard to me, but she's got a great voice! Grr! It's not fair! She really irritates me when she's talking, but when she sings it's not horrible. But still, get rid of her.
12. Danny Gokey - oh, Danny. You are the one so far. He's got the whole package, looks, personality, sad story, great voice! He'll be hard to beat. I'm not worried at all that he won't make it. Even if he doesn't, the judges would be stupid to not bring him back for the wild card. America has been known to make mistakes (remember Jordan Sparks?)

That's all! More tonight!

Christie OUT!

A slideshow of the birthday pictures...

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Addison is funny

This is a video of Addison watching herself get pelted by snowballs (by her father, you should know)...and it cracks her up. Also, she's started saying "Ah, ah, chooo" all the time now. Sometimes as an added bonus, she'll throw herself on the floor as if her sneeze was so powerful it knocked her to the floor. She's just adorable!

Snowman / snowball

This is a link to the video of Addison from this weekend. We had a big snowfall and she helped make a snowman. Greg did most of the structural work of course, but Addison did really help. Then she decided to throw snowballs at him. I think she might have said a curse word, but I'm not sure. Listen closely. : )

ADDISON IS 2!!

A few pictures from the birthday party. Just a small family gathering, nothing huge. We all had a great time and Addison loved all her gifts. Our evening entertainment was watching my mom put together the dollhouse bookshelf she and my dad got her for her birthday. Didn't know you'd have to do that, did ya mom? Anyway, she loves taking all the nice boxes off of it and dumping the toys out. The bookshelf looks nice and orderly most times because there isn't anything but empty boxes on it. Pan out and you'll see the pile of tiny toys on the ground. Ah well...baby steps, right?

Christmas

So Christmas went very well and we were all relatively unscathed afterward. There is always a mound of paper and boxes, but for that I am grateful. I know Addison doesn't quite understand grateful yet, but I'll be grateful for her too until she knows. She received lots and lots of adorable clothes, lots and lots of cute toys, and lots and lots of attention! I think in her quiet way, she likes that most. I think her favorite toys were the big interactive kitchen that boils water when you put a pot on the burner and tells you what your cooking, her pink castle and all the little royal people that congregate there and I'd like to say she liked her dolls (especially the one Greg and I got her), but I do see them strewn about the house unclothed or half-clothed. I'll say the dolls were my favorite just because I love dolls, always have. Hopefully one day she'll enjoy them as much as me. I have a ton of them waiting in the attic for her.

I already see signs of her pretend play. It's very cute and exciting. She loves to pour "tea" or "cocoa" from her little tea set (which she also got for xmas). If you're lucky, she'll hand you a cup, but you mustn't hold on to it very long. She has other customers to wait on and unfortunately they must all use the same cup even though she has a bunch of others. If you're really, really lucky, she'll share an invisible cake or cookie with you. She plays quietly with her royal family in the royal castle too. I love watching her play. She speaks her little royal language that we don't really understand, but when we do catch the words, they are beautiful. She speaks precisely when she knows the word and is confident about it. She's repeating everything we say. This morning I caught her repeating the numbers on Sesame Street. I interrupted her, so I only heard "fourteen", but I was impressed. Granted, she wouldn't know 14 if she saw it, but her speech is progressing. She sings more of her ABC's and has added extra verses to "Twinkle, twinkle" and "Jingle Bells" instead of just repeating those words.

Along with the beautiful words, comes her opinions as well and she's working on her tantrums. Mostly when we're in public...so bravo to her for learning so quickly that it works better when people are around. We're still struggling with potty training and it seems like we're doing worse than we had been. I suppose this will come with time, but I'm getting discouraged. She has to be potty trained before she can attend daycare, so now I'm quicker to worry about it.

End of the week she'll be 2 years old! Hard to believe that 2 years ago I was anxiously awaiting her arrival.