All things American Idol

It is a time honored tradition...Mothers passing down treasured skills and diversions to their daughters...a legacy, if you will. Pursuits enjoyed by a mother and instilled into her daughters that will shape and influence them as they grow and mature.

I am pleased to say that I have passed on a significant legacy to my girls. One that they have embraced with the same level of enthusiasm (obsession) that I have. Is it a traditional legacy? One that involves a love of cooking, sewing, or gardening, perhaps? Absolutely not...I have introduced my children to the love of all things AMERICAN IDOL.

I have taught my girls that though the audition shows are funny, they do not represent the true spirit of American Idol. The show really begins when the top twelve contestants have emerged. From that point on all press and personal stories relating to the AI finalists become top priority. Any magazine that bears their pictures, or news story that mentions their names must be saved and/or recorded. Favorites must be picked early on so that a personal, emotional connection can be made (this is very necessary even though it can lead to heartbreak if your fave gets voted off early).

American Idol begins in January, top twelve begin competing mid-March. By the end of April, Fox reveals the summer tour schedule (we knew SLC would be a definite stop--with David Archuleta leading the way!). Our tickets were purchased before the finale even aired, and though we were saddened to see our David come in second we reveled in the thoughts of seeing all of the idols live in July!

We counted down the days until July 15th, maintaining focus on the most important day of our summer. The girls held strong, discussing AI in one aspect or another every single day.
(As a mom, I teach, I mold, I strive to set a good example. In the end...it all comes down to one distinct event--THE CONCERT!)

Here we go...
Concert day arrived and it was a flurry of activity as we prepared for the ultimate "girls night out." My girls and I joined Jennie and her girls, Rachelle and hers, as well as Chris and Cami. We arrived at the E-Center giddy with anticipation, the girls in outfits that matched their friends', all of us with David Archuleta, and Brooke White on our minds. We made our way to seats on the floor, not too far from the stage itself. As the concert began, and I bounced to my feet, screaming at the top of my lungs, I looked over at my girls who were standing on top of their chairs shrieking and clapping their hands together, and realized (with a grateful heart, and a tear in my eye) that they had truly reached an admirable level of crazed AI mania! I watched proudly as they rushed the stage, avoiding the scrutinous glare of the security guards, and declared their love in deafening shrieks for certain rockers (Michael Johns, David Cook) and crooners (that would be David A.). My girls were in top form...they certainly did not disappoint...it was a sensational evening (as well as a killer concert!)!

Carly Smithson! This girl can sing! And she is absolutely delightful!



Brooke White! She is gorgeous, very funny and genuine! (fabulous singer as well!)



Jason Castro! So much better in person than on TV! Loved him!



Syesha Mercado! Beautiful...and so very very talented!!!



David Archuleta! Our boy is incredible! Such an amazing voice, and so humble! He wiped away tears as he sang...and so did we! We love you, David!




David Cook! Our American Idol! He deserved to win...he is fabulous!



I spotted Justin Guarini (second place, first season of AI) at the concert! I was a little star struck (to say the least), but held it together enough to walk right up to him and say hello! (he is a cutie!)



After the show our entire group gathered near the inconspicuous exit where the idols delighted the frenzied crowd with autograph signing and pictures. And...in an attempt to squeeze as much out of this American Idol experience as possible, we returned the next day for more precious autographs and photo opportunities...
Four hours, ninety-five degrees, sweltering sun, scorching hot MICHAEL JOHNS!

Cute Brooke...



The kids with Kristy Lee...very pretty girl...



...and Chikezie...Cami's favorite! He hugged every single one of us!



...and Jason Castro...loved his outfit...loved his eyes...mmmmmmm



...and Michael...need I say more?



...HELLO!!!!!!



This is my life...this is my legacy...this is AMERICAN IDOL!!!!