I'm sure that my faithful readers have been tossing and turning all night long, losing precious sleep as they worry about my graduation dilemna.
Oh, you haven't?
You don't even REMEMBER my graduation dilemna?
Well, let me remind you of the details.
About 24 years after I started a family, I returned to college to complete my degree. For the past five years I have taken one BYU Independent Study class at a time. It was overall, a lovely experience.
After spending 5 intense weeks madly writing multiple papers, I completed my last class. I was now able to graduate! There was great rejoicing in the land (at least in my home) and then, I received the unpleasant news--it was too late to order my cap and gown. Without a cap and gown, I could not walk. Without a cap and gown it would THWART my plans to stand next to Jennifer as she graduated. Without a cap and gown it would THWART my ambition of appearing in a possible future print ad or TV commercial with Jennifer by my side advertising the success of the BGS program and the bonds of mother-daughter relationships.
You can see I have very big ideas.
It was a very sad day. I lost sleep. Sigh.
But, NEVER fear! My darling Utah daughters were determined to come to my rescue.
Christie was planning on setting up her lawn chair, her lap top, and camping out at the Hinckley Center to buy one of the few remaining coveted caps and gowns.
Heather, in her fog-induced CPA tax preparation haze probably did not EVEN know what great plans I had in store for her in case Christie could not camp out. She was going to be the back up.
Lucky, lucky girl.
Jennifer however had an even MORE clever plan. She decided to advertise my heartfelt dilemna.
On Facebook.
Yes, once again, Facebook united people together, or in this case, Facebook united Jennifer to a friend of a friend who had a cap and gown that they would be willing to loan me.
This is what she posted:"
Then she went on to explain:
"Nearly 30 years after leaving college to raise a family, my mom has accomplished her goal of graduating. However, she wasn't notified that she would be eligible to graduate until after the deadline to order a cap and gown. She would really like to be able to walk with me and celebrate her accomplishment. "
The first offer was from a lovely gentlemen who was too tall. (But, I would have taken it anyway.)
The second offer was from a lovely lady who was too short. (But, I would have taken it anyway.)
The third offer was JUST RIGHT!
So, next week I will be marching into the Mariott Center looking up into the vast audience with tears streaming down my face--thanks to the love and support of my darling daughters. They are truly my knights in shining armor.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
United We Stand
Grab yourself a cup of hot cocoa. Put in a couple of marshmallows and let it melt just a little and slowly sip as I tell you three stories.
When I was in high school, my dad was diagnosed with leukemia. We hoped and prayed that my dad would be healed. One particular weekday, our ward held a special fast for my dad. Our family was touched that they loved us enough to do this. As I was at school that day, I remember sitting on the grass during lunch with my good friends. One friend noticed that I wasn't eating my normal peanut butter and honey sandwich, crispy apple, and homemade chocolate chip cookies for lunch. Instead, I sat there quietly talking to them. When she asked why I wasn't eating, I replied it was because I was fasting and praying for my dad. She looked at me quietly and then said something that I've never forgotten:
"I wish you had told me. I would have fasted for your dad, too."
I was touched. She was not a member of my church and I don't even know if she had fasted before. I felt her love that day that she wanted to be united in my cause and do something for my family.
About two years ago, my husband was told he was getting laid off. Our family immediately began fasting and praying that he would be able to find employment quickly. We called and e-mailed family and close friends and asked if they would join us in fasting for Ron. Everyone we talked to seemed genuinely interested and willing. We felt great strength as we united our faith. The job offer didn't come that week or even that month, but Ron was only without a paying job a few weeks before a job offer came. We are so grateful for the love and support of our family and friends.
A few weeks ago, my sweet daughter asked that we pray for her wonderful husband, Jacob. He needed to pass a few tests to graduate from the Police Academy. Of course, we were willing to do that. When I mentioned this to my Mom, she said, "Jennifer should ask the entire family to pray. There is strength in unity."
I shared that with Jennifer. A week or so later, Jennifer sent out an e-mail to Jacob's and her extended family. Parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins were asked to join in a special fast for Jacob that he would be able to do well on his upcoming tests. There were many heartfelt prayers in the following days. Last Thursday night, Jennifer text-ed Emily and let her know his tests would be the next day.
Early Friday morning, Jennifer sent out another mass e-mail asking for family members to remember Jacob in their prayers that day. He was taking his tests that evening. I spent part of the day working in the temple and many of those minutes were spent in prayer that Jacob would do well.
Friday evening, we received another phone call from Jennifer. Jacob passed all three tests easily. We rejoiced with them and are so grateful that prayers were answered.
There is great strength in unity. There is strength in uniting our faith and our prayers. Sometimes, the answer isn't what we want it to be. My dad did not recover from leukemia. But, even though the outcome wasn't what we hoped for, we felt loved and buoyed up and filled with hope for better days.
Jennifer recently posted on her blog, "I really, really love my family."
Story One
When I was in high school, my dad was diagnosed with leukemia. We hoped and prayed that my dad would be healed. One particular weekday, our ward held a special fast for my dad. Our family was touched that they loved us enough to do this. As I was at school that day, I remember sitting on the grass during lunch with my good friends. One friend noticed that I wasn't eating my normal peanut butter and honey sandwich, crispy apple, and homemade chocolate chip cookies for lunch. Instead, I sat there quietly talking to them. When she asked why I wasn't eating, I replied it was because I was fasting and praying for my dad. She looked at me quietly and then said something that I've never forgotten:
"I wish you had told me. I would have fasted for your dad, too."
I was touched. She was not a member of my church and I don't even know if she had fasted before. I felt her love that day that she wanted to be united in my cause and do something for my family.
Story Two
About two years ago, my husband was told he was getting laid off. Our family immediately began fasting and praying that he would be able to find employment quickly. We called and e-mailed family and close friends and asked if they would join us in fasting for Ron. Everyone we talked to seemed genuinely interested and willing. We felt great strength as we united our faith. The job offer didn't come that week or even that month, but Ron was only without a paying job a few weeks before a job offer came. We are so grateful for the love and support of our family and friends.
Story Three
A few weeks ago, my sweet daughter asked that we pray for her wonderful husband, Jacob. He needed to pass a few tests to graduate from the Police Academy. Of course, we were willing to do that. When I mentioned this to my Mom, she said, "Jennifer should ask the entire family to pray. There is strength in unity."
I shared that with Jennifer. A week or so later, Jennifer sent out an e-mail to Jacob's and her extended family. Parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins were asked to join in a special fast for Jacob that he would be able to do well on his upcoming tests. There were many heartfelt prayers in the following days. Last Thursday night, Jennifer text-ed Emily and let her know his tests would be the next day.
Early Friday morning, Jennifer sent out another mass e-mail asking for family members to remember Jacob in their prayers that day. He was taking his tests that evening. I spent part of the day working in the temple and many of those minutes were spent in prayer that Jacob would do well.
Friday evening, we received another phone call from Jennifer. Jacob passed all three tests easily. We rejoiced with them and are so grateful that prayers were answered.
There is great strength in unity. There is strength in uniting our faith and our prayers. Sometimes, the answer isn't what we want it to be. My dad did not recover from leukemia. But, even though the outcome wasn't what we hoped for, we felt loved and buoyed up and filled with hope for better days.
Jennifer recently posted on her blog, "I really, really love my family."
I echo that. I really, really love my family.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Silver and Gold
Make new friends,
But keep the old.
One is silver
And the others gold.
We have been in our new home 8 months and it finally feels more like home. I no longer dread going to church and wondering who I will talk to. I no longer get lost as I run errands. I feel more comfortable living here and it feels good.
Oh, there are still hard times. A month ago our stake was having a Relief Society Conference. I walked into the chapel and did not see anyone I knew. As I attended the workshops I forced myself to talk to "strangers" that someday might become acquaintances and perhaps even friends. They were very nice, but it was very uncomfortable as I looked around the room and saw women who were obviously good friends. I wondered if I would ever feel that sense of belonging. When it was time for lunch, I felt like leaving. But, I forced myself to stay. I walked into the Cultural Hall and scanned the room. I saw one table with a few women from my ward. I hesitantly walked over towards them and timidly asked if there was room for me. If they had said every seat was taken, I would have smiled and quietly walked out of the room, out to my car, and drove home. Fortunately, there was an empty place and they seemed happy to have me join them. So, even though I still feel uncomfortable at stake events, my ward is starting to feel more like home.
Recently I have seen that friendships are forming. Let me give you three examples:
A couple of Mondays ago, my visiting teachers were supposed to come over at 1:30 pm. About noon I had received an e-mail from BYU's Independent Study saying that my last class was graded. I had received an A and I was so excited that I truly was finished. A couple of minutes later, the phone rang. It was Jennifer, one of my visiting teachers. She told me that she and Annie were at an Italian restaurant and they wondered if I would like to join them for lunch. I had never heard of this place and asked for directions. I was so proud of myself that I actually KNEW where these streets were and drove their without hesitation. After I arrived, I shared my good news that my last BYU class was finished. They rejoiced with me. We talked for nearly three hours and it felt for a few moments like I was having lunch with my Stockton friends. We shared some tender feelings of the heart. I think they were inspired to change our visiting teaching plans so we could get to know each other on a deeper level. Some silver friendship strands were formed.
The next day, another woman in the ward called. I feel a connection to Karen and feel like we could become very good friends. She has a daughter Emily's age and Laura told her mom that Emily was struggling to find a white shrug for her prom dress. Karen had been out shopping and came across a white shrug she thought would be perfect.
"I bought three of them--small, medium, and large," she told me. "You can have her try them on and pay me for the one you keep and I'll return the others."
I was so touched with her thoughtfulness. When she came over later that afternoon, we visited for 15 minutes talking about a wide variety of subjects. More silver strands of friendship were formed.
Last week for Mutual, our ward has an Amazing Race activity. They thought that all the leaders would need to drive, but four young women leaders (including myself) didn't need to. We stuck around to help with the scoring when the teams came back. We visited with each other and I learned some of the joys and struggles that the other women serving in Young Women are going through right now. A few more silver strands of friendship were formed.
I miss my "golden friends" in Stockton. I miss Marian and her thoughtfulness. I miss Trina and Velvet and how they could always make me laugh. I miss Alexandria and her generosity. I miss Julie and our long walks and talks. I miss Shirley and our talks about education and the school system. I miss Maxine, Juliene, Pat, and Julie and our lovely book club. I miss Candy, Sheri, Lori, Sandy, Ruth, and Sally and our "Sew What's New" evenings. I miss my wonderful sister-in-law Vicki and how we became good friends the last few years that we lived in Stockton. I miss ANOTHER Marian and how we shared favorite books and the joys and struggles of motherhood. I miss many, many other wonderful women as well. I miss the love and support they have shown me over the years. I will always treasure these golden friendships.
I am grateful for the "silver" friends that I am beginning to make. Women NEED friends in a way that men seldom do. Our husbands and children are the most important people in our lives, but it's our mother, sisters and our friends who bring an added dimension. We rejoice with each other when times are good. We cry with each other with times are hard. We are each others support system.
So to my friends--the silver and the gold--thank you for making my life fuller and richer.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
American Idol--The Final 9
Last week, I predicted correctly that Thia (who I think would be a GREAT friend for Emily in real life) and Naima would be in the bottom three. I was wrong about the third and thought that Stefano would be joining the girls. However, it was (gasp) Paul who ended up in the bottom three and Thia and Naima were our dearly departed. Let's see how I do today in my great predicting skills.
Last night the theme were songs from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Jacob Lusk: "Man in the Mirror"--He had some problems with his ear monitor and quickly removed it. Despite the technical issues, he did marvelous! He took this Michael Jackson song and gave it a soulful, gospel flair. This was one of my favorite performances of the night. OK, I didn't really care for all the hip shaking, but everything else was perfect. And Jacob--I'm so glad you stood up for yourself and sang a song that fits your convictions. Good. for. you.
Haley Reinhart: "Piece of My Heart"--They have been telling Haley week after week that she has a little Janis Joplin inside of her. Tonight, she gave the judges her take on a Janis song. She sang the first few notes and then morphed into a screaming and growling performer. This was probably my least favorite performance of the evening. I just don't like being screamed at. Props on her outfit tonight though. I appreciated a more modest Haley.
Casey Abrams: "Have You Ever Seen the Rain"--Now this is the Casey that I fell in love with--standing next to his upright bass. Randy thinks he's revolutionary performing like this. I agree. I LOVE IT! The growl is still there in his voice but more importantly, there is a smile on his face AND in his eyes. No more Mr. Evil.
Lauren Alaina: "You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman"--Her mentors decided that her singing style tonight was Contrsoul--a combination of country and soul. She did a GREAT job! She had a couple of big notes about midway through her performance and the last note? Incredible.
James Durbin: "While My Guitar Gently Weeps"--OK, I was not familiar with this particular George Harrison song. Does this make me a bad person? No. Does this make me an uneducated person? Perhaps. Now, Ron--he was very familiar with this song. See how well we balance each other out? James usually runs and jumps all over the stage. It was great seeing a calmer, more restrained performance from James. He felt like this was his time to show that he could perform more than the frenetic songs he's known for. He did a very nice job. And there were was an incredible BIG note at the end. I kept thinking--breathe! Breathe!
Scotty McCreery: "That's All Right, Mama"--Scotty loves Elvis Presley. When he was young, he dressed like Elvis. He tried to sing like Elvis. Tonight it was time for him to honor the King of Rock and Roll with his version of an Elvis song. It was so much fun watching Scotty perform. At the end of his performance, he was "mobbed" on stage by a few young female fans. Very reminiscent of Elvis. Another one of my favorite performances.
Pia Toscano: "River Deep, Mountain High"--She promised last week that if she went through that she would FINALLY choose an uptempo song. She did not disappoint. She is probably one of the best singers in the competition. The only thing she needs to work on is showing a little more personality on stage.
Stefano Langone: "When a Man Loves a Woman"--Stefano has picked up an unfortunate David Archuleta mannerism. He licks his lips. Not a good look. Doesn't he know that his lips will become very chapped if he continues to do that? OK, now to his performance. Stefano is a good singer, but he isn't a great one. He's TRYING much harder to connect with the audience. But for me, something is still missing. When we both figure it out, he'll do much better.
Paul McDonald: "Folsom Prison Blues"--Last week, Paul was in the bottom three which SHOCKED me greatly. Greatly. Tonight, he gave one of the best performances of the evening. I've seen Folsom Prison (from the outside, thank you very much) and I can almost picture the prison inmates rocking away to Paul's version of this Johnny Cash song. One of the best performances of the evening.
So, who did best? Scotty, Paul, and Jacob.
Who is in danger? Jacob, (because he went in the dreaded first place), Haley, and Stefano.
Who is in danger of going home? Stefano. Sorry David Archuleta (my all-time FAVORITE American Idol) but Stefano's lip-licking must go.
Last night the theme were songs from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Jacob Lusk: "Man in the Mirror"--He had some problems with his ear monitor and quickly removed it. Despite the technical issues, he did marvelous! He took this Michael Jackson song and gave it a soulful, gospel flair. This was one of my favorite performances of the night. OK, I didn't really care for all the hip shaking, but everything else was perfect. And Jacob--I'm so glad you stood up for yourself and sang a song that fits your convictions. Good. for. you.
Haley Reinhart: "Piece of My Heart"--They have been telling Haley week after week that she has a little Janis Joplin inside of her. Tonight, she gave the judges her take on a Janis song. She sang the first few notes and then morphed into a screaming and growling performer. This was probably my least favorite performance of the evening. I just don't like being screamed at. Props on her outfit tonight though. I appreciated a more modest Haley.
Casey Abrams: "Have You Ever Seen the Rain"--Now this is the Casey that I fell in love with--standing next to his upright bass. Randy thinks he's revolutionary performing like this. I agree. I LOVE IT! The growl is still there in his voice but more importantly, there is a smile on his face AND in his eyes. No more Mr. Evil.
Lauren Alaina: "You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman"--Her mentors decided that her singing style tonight was Contrsoul--a combination of country and soul. She did a GREAT job! She had a couple of big notes about midway through her performance and the last note? Incredible.
James Durbin: "While My Guitar Gently Weeps"--OK, I was not familiar with this particular George Harrison song. Does this make me a bad person? No. Does this make me an uneducated person? Perhaps. Now, Ron--he was very familiar with this song. See how well we balance each other out? James usually runs and jumps all over the stage. It was great seeing a calmer, more restrained performance from James. He felt like this was his time to show that he could perform more than the frenetic songs he's known for. He did a very nice job. And there were was an incredible BIG note at the end. I kept thinking--breathe! Breathe!
Scotty McCreery: "That's All Right, Mama"--Scotty loves Elvis Presley. When he was young, he dressed like Elvis. He tried to sing like Elvis. Tonight it was time for him to honor the King of Rock and Roll with his version of an Elvis song. It was so much fun watching Scotty perform. At the end of his performance, he was "mobbed" on stage by a few young female fans. Very reminiscent of Elvis. Another one of my favorite performances.
Pia Toscano: "River Deep, Mountain High"--She promised last week that if she went through that she would FINALLY choose an uptempo song. She did not disappoint. She is probably one of the best singers in the competition. The only thing she needs to work on is showing a little more personality on stage.
Stefano Langone: "When a Man Loves a Woman"--Stefano has picked up an unfortunate David Archuleta mannerism. He licks his lips. Not a good look. Doesn't he know that his lips will become very chapped if he continues to do that? OK, now to his performance. Stefano is a good singer, but he isn't a great one. He's TRYING much harder to connect with the audience. But for me, something is still missing. When we both figure it out, he'll do much better.
Paul McDonald: "Folsom Prison Blues"--Last week, Paul was in the bottom three which SHOCKED me greatly. Greatly. Tonight, he gave one of the best performances of the evening. I've seen Folsom Prison (from the outside, thank you very much) and I can almost picture the prison inmates rocking away to Paul's version of this Johnny Cash song. One of the best performances of the evening.
So, who did best? Scotty, Paul, and Jacob.
Who is in danger? Jacob, (because he went in the dreaded first place), Haley, and Stefano.
Who is in danger of going home? Stefano. Sorry David Archuleta (my all-time FAVORITE American Idol) but Stefano's lip-licking must go.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
April Sixth
Last weekend at General Conference, Elder Richard J. Maynes of the Seventy talked about the importance of families establishing Celestial Traditions.
I like that phrase...celestial traditions. I know he was referring to such traditions as attending church together, having family home evenings, family prayer, and family scripture study, but it made me think about what OTHER kind of traditions could be considered celestial traditions.
I think many Christmas traditions can be considered Celestial traditions. I love our Bethlehem Dinners, baking cookies for friends and family, and reading the Christmas story from the scriptures.
I think our Joseph Smith Birthday celebration could be considered a celestial tradition because we are remembering the birthday of a latter-day prophet who restored the Church of Jesus Christ in these last days.
Many Easter traditions can be celestial traditions as we focus on the true meaning of the holiday.
Today, I thought of a NEW tradition to implement in our family.
April Sixth.
What's so significant about April 6th you ask? Well, I'll tell you.
Modern day prophets, including Harold B. Lee and Spencer W. Kimball have told us that April 6th was the actual day that Jesus Christ was born in that tiny town in Bethlehem. (See Ensign, July 1973, p. 2; May 1980, p. 54.)
Mary and the Christ Child.
April 6th was also the day the church was organized in a little log cabin in Fayette, New York.
Then, I'm going to serve a yummy homemade cake. We are going to sing "Happy Birthday" two different times--one to Jesus Christ and one to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Yes, that will be a mouthful to sing.
After blowing out the candles (I'll put on a few for symbolism's sake) we'll read D&C 21 which talks about the organization of the church.
I love celebrating special times with my family. Hopefully, this will become one celestial tradition that our family will carry on for years to come.
I like that phrase...celestial traditions. I know he was referring to such traditions as attending church together, having family home evenings, family prayer, and family scripture study, but it made me think about what OTHER kind of traditions could be considered celestial traditions.
I think many Christmas traditions can be considered Celestial traditions. I love our Bethlehem Dinners, baking cookies for friends and family, and reading the Christmas story from the scriptures.
I think our Joseph Smith Birthday celebration could be considered a celestial tradition because we are remembering the birthday of a latter-day prophet who restored the Church of Jesus Christ in these last days.
Many Easter traditions can be celestial traditions as we focus on the true meaning of the holiday.
Today, I thought of a NEW tradition to implement in our family.
April Sixth.
What's so significant about April 6th you ask? Well, I'll tell you.
Modern day prophets, including Harold B. Lee and Spencer W. Kimball have told us that April 6th was the actual day that Jesus Christ was born in that tiny town in Bethlehem. (See Ensign, July 1973, p. 2; May 1980, p. 54.)
Mary and the Christ Child.April 6th was also the day the church was organized in a little log cabin in Fayette, New York.
Artist's rendition of organization of Church in Peter Whitmer's home.
Tonight, I will be fixing a special April 6th dinner. This year it is going to be Chicken Pot Pie. I don't know if they ATE chicken pot pie in the 1830's, but it's homey and somewhat old fashioned.Then, I'm going to serve a yummy homemade cake. We are going to sing "Happy Birthday" two different times--one to Jesus Christ and one to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Yes, that will be a mouthful to sing.
After blowing out the candles (I'll put on a few for symbolism's sake) we'll read D&C 21 which talks about the organization of the church.
I love celebrating special times with my family. Hopefully, this will become one celestial tradition that our family will carry on for years to come.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Conference Traditions
General Conference is this weekend and I'm excited. It's a time to recharge my spiritual batteries and spend a weekend pondering on things that I need to improve in my own life. Our family has a few conference traditions that make the weekend even more special.
- Today I spent the morning giving the house a good cleaning. It's hard for me to focus on the messages when I'm surrounded by clutter. I didn't spend a great deal of time doing extra chores. But the carpets are vacuumed, the hard floors are mopped, the furniture is dusted and the bathrooms are clean.
- Conference breakfast is usually a special treat. Sometimes we enjoy fruit cocktail, sometimes cinnamon rolls, and recently it's been Grandpa Jack's Life-Enhancing Breakfast Casserole.
- This year for Sunday's breakfast, we are going to do something NEW for Conference breakfast. I got this idea when I taught Laurel's last week. We are going to have a Waffle Bar. Think yummy homemade waffles with several toppings to choose from. Fresh strawberries. Milk chocolate chips. Whip Cream. Syrup. Doesn't it sound yummy?
- Another conference tradition is playing Conference Bingo. You can find these cards on a lot of other websites. I buy a large bag of M&M's and Skittles. Whenever a word is mentioned, you got to place an edible marker on your square. Once you have a BINGO, you get to eat that row or column and start again. My children loved this when they were younger and I've heard rumors that my married daughters STILL do this because after all..."It's TRADITION!"
- When Ron's at Priesthood, one of my FAVORITE traditions is having "Girl's Night In." We pull out the facial cleansers and masks, the foot scrubs, and the nail polish and sit around and pamper ourselves. We watch a movie. This year, it's going to be Tangled. We also usually indulge in hot fudge sundaes. However, with Emily's new health kick, we may be indulging in air popped popcorn this year.
- Besides playing Conference Bingo, we take notes. I star the speakers whose remarks especially touched me to make sure I remember what they talked about and study their words when the Conference issue of the Ensign comes out.
- We watch the programming between sessions of Conference on BYUTV. I may not always sit in the room, but I'm listening to what is on. Many times they show a great movie right after the afternoon sessions, too.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
American Idol--The Final 11
I started watching American Idol a few seasons ago. I became a RABID fan the year David Archuleta competed. I mean RABID! I actually voted that season. Not once. Not twice. But easily a 100 or more times EVERY TIME he performed. Thank goodness, Emily supported me on this and she would take over the speed dial when my tender little fingers would get tired. Heather and Jennifer did not share our passion. They were David Cook fans.
I told them they were NOT allowed to use the family phone to vote for David A.'s arch-rival.
Yes, I had no life.
Alas, David A. came in second place and Heather and Jennifer's David won. But, at least my family did not support his victory with our votes. I have supported David Archuleta's career by purchasing all three of his CD's. But, I digress. It's now Season 10 and we're down to the Final 11. And unlike the season Archie competed, I haven't voted once. Not once. But, that doesn't mean I don't enjoy the show.
In fact, this post is dedicated to Jennifer hoping that she'll jump on the American Idol bandwagon this season and make it one of her reality shows to watch! I would LOVE to know who her favorites are so we can have some good old fashioned competition.
So, now for a recap.
Last night was Elton John night. He's got so many great songs that I was excited. Overall, the contestants did well.
Scotty McCreery – “Country Comfort” This was the one Elton John song I was NOT familiar with. I love Scotty. I'm not a big country fan, but he's adorable and his low voice always impresses me. I'm worried because he's in the first spot, but he has enough teenage girl fans that he should be OK.
Naima Adedapo – “I’m Still Standing” This was my least favorite performance of the evening. She tried to add a little Jamaican flavor and I don't think it worked. Overall, she's a very good performer and I hate to see her go, but I think she may be in the bottom three tonight.
Paul McDonald – “Rocket Man” I like Paul. I like his relaxed manner and his unique singing style. He broke out "the outfit" again last night. When Steven commented on how his outfit had grown even more flowers, Paul gave his toothpaste commercial grin and said, "How could I not wear it on Elton John night?" My big question is: How does he get his teeth so white?
Pia Toscano – “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” Pia sang another ballad. Randy and the other judges have challenged her to do something different. She promises that if she goes through another week, she will do just that. Some people may feel Pia played it safe, but she has an incredible voice and stage presence. I predict she will be in the final four.
Stefano Langone – “Tiny Dancer” Two weeks ago, Stefano had the BEST performance of the night. Last week, he ended up in the bottom two. Last night he tried much harder to connect with the audience. He kept his eyes open more, looked into the camera and even sang to Jennifer. (Randy was hoping he would grab his hand and sing to him, too. One of the funnier moments of the show.) He has a good voice, but I'm not sure if this song and this performance will keep him safe. I predict he'll be in the bottom three tonight.
Lauren Alaina – “Candle in the Wind” Before the commercial break, Ryan announced that Lauren would be singing the all time number one song for Elton John. Ron and I had a contest to figure out what song that would be. I kept thinking--"It's the song about a dead person. It's a song about a dead person." Suddenly, I remembered the person was Marilyn Monroe. Since Emily was on the computer, I asked her to Google Elton John and Marilyn Monroe. I was thrilled when they announced this was THE song! My little bit of trivia brain had paid off.
OK, now to Lauren's performance. She is an incredible singer and mature beyond her years. I can't believe she's only 16 years old. She did incredible last night and I predict that she will be in the final four.
James Durbin – “Saturday Night’s All Right” James is NOT my favorite singer in the group because I don't really like the type of music he sings. He's a little too rocker for my taste. But, he is very talented and last night, I enjoyed watching him interact with the audience, jump off the piano, and have fire spout everywhere. His joke about worrying that his overly hair sprayed hair would catch on fire and he would have a "Pepsi moment" was the other funny part of the show since American Idol is sponsored by Coca Cola. Of course, us ancient ones KNOW he was referring to Michael Jackson's unfortunate incident filming a Pepsi commercial years ago.
I predict he will also be in the final four.
Thia Megia – “Daniel” I like Thia and I like "Daniel." When I was growing up, my brother Daniel told all his (gullible) friends that Elton John was singing about him. They believed him. His friends were not. too. bright. But, since I DO have a brother named Daniel, this song has a soft spot in my heart. Thia did an OK job with this song. She has an absolutely beautiful voice but tonight (sigh) she didn't wow me as much as other times. I'm very worried she will be in the bottom three.
Casey Abrams – “Your Song” First I must say that I'm very, very glad that Casey got his hair and beard trimmed. He was looking positively scary and even evil the past couple of weeks. It wasn't just his hair and beard either--it was in his eyes as he growled and shrieked. I could not bear watching him. Last night, he did much better. He looked saner. He sang with less growls and I don't think I heard any shrieks at all. The judges saved him last week. I think he's safe on his own tonight.
Jacob Lusk – “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word” I like Jacob. I like the type of music he chooses and the emotion he brings to a song. He is trying harder the past two weeks to hold back a little and when he does, he's more successful. This performance was not the best one Jacob has ever had, but he did fine. He should be safe. I predict he'll be in the final four, too. Or it could be Scotty. Still trying to decide between these two.
Haley Reinhart – “Bennie and the Jets” This was my FAVORITE performance of the evening! I have not been a Haley fan in the past, but Ron and I could not stop smiling the whole time she sang. It was infectious. It was fun. We wanted to sing along. Haley had a couple of bottom three weeks, but tonight, she's SAFE!
Bottom Line: Bottom three: Naima, Stefano, and Thia. Who's going home? Hmmm... this is harder but I'll say Stefano.
Best performance of the evening: Haley, Pia, and Lauren.
So, I'll see tonight how I did.
I told them they were NOT allowed to use the family phone to vote for David A.'s arch-rival.
Yes, I had no life.
Alas, David A. came in second place and Heather and Jennifer's David won. But, at least my family did not support his victory with our votes. I have supported David Archuleta's career by purchasing all three of his CD's. But, I digress. It's now Season 10 and we're down to the Final 11. And unlike the season Archie competed, I haven't voted once. Not once. But, that doesn't mean I don't enjoy the show.
In fact, this post is dedicated to Jennifer hoping that she'll jump on the American Idol bandwagon this season and make it one of her reality shows to watch! I would LOVE to know who her favorites are so we can have some good old fashioned competition.
So, now for a recap.
Last night was Elton John night. He's got so many great songs that I was excited. Overall, the contestants did well.
Scotty McCreery – “Country Comfort” This was the one Elton John song I was NOT familiar with. I love Scotty. I'm not a big country fan, but he's adorable and his low voice always impresses me. I'm worried because he's in the first spot, but he has enough teenage girl fans that he should be OK.
Naima Adedapo – “I’m Still Standing” This was my least favorite performance of the evening. She tried to add a little Jamaican flavor and I don't think it worked. Overall, she's a very good performer and I hate to see her go, but I think she may be in the bottom three tonight.
Paul McDonald – “Rocket Man” I like Paul. I like his relaxed manner and his unique singing style. He broke out "the outfit" again last night. When Steven commented on how his outfit had grown even more flowers, Paul gave his toothpaste commercial grin and said, "How could I not wear it on Elton John night?" My big question is: How does he get his teeth so white?
Pia Toscano – “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” Pia sang another ballad. Randy and the other judges have challenged her to do something different. She promises that if she goes through another week, she will do just that. Some people may feel Pia played it safe, but she has an incredible voice and stage presence. I predict she will be in the final four.
Stefano Langone – “Tiny Dancer” Two weeks ago, Stefano had the BEST performance of the night. Last week, he ended up in the bottom two. Last night he tried much harder to connect with the audience. He kept his eyes open more, looked into the camera and even sang to Jennifer. (Randy was hoping he would grab his hand and sing to him, too. One of the funnier moments of the show.) He has a good voice, but I'm not sure if this song and this performance will keep him safe. I predict he'll be in the bottom three tonight.
Lauren Alaina – “Candle in the Wind” Before the commercial break, Ryan announced that Lauren would be singing the all time number one song for Elton John. Ron and I had a contest to figure out what song that would be. I kept thinking--"It's the song about a dead person. It's a song about a dead person." Suddenly, I remembered the person was Marilyn Monroe. Since Emily was on the computer, I asked her to Google Elton John and Marilyn Monroe. I was thrilled when they announced this was THE song! My little bit of trivia brain had paid off.
OK, now to Lauren's performance. She is an incredible singer and mature beyond her years. I can't believe she's only 16 years old. She did incredible last night and I predict that she will be in the final four.
James Durbin – “Saturday Night’s All Right” James is NOT my favorite singer in the group because I don't really like the type of music he sings. He's a little too rocker for my taste. But, he is very talented and last night, I enjoyed watching him interact with the audience, jump off the piano, and have fire spout everywhere. His joke about worrying that his overly hair sprayed hair would catch on fire and he would have a "Pepsi moment" was the other funny part of the show since American Idol is sponsored by Coca Cola. Of course, us ancient ones KNOW he was referring to Michael Jackson's unfortunate incident filming a Pepsi commercial years ago.
I predict he will also be in the final four.
Thia Megia – “Daniel” I like Thia and I like "Daniel." When I was growing up, my brother Daniel told all his (gullible) friends that Elton John was singing about him. They believed him. His friends were not. too. bright. But, since I DO have a brother named Daniel, this song has a soft spot in my heart. Thia did an OK job with this song. She has an absolutely beautiful voice but tonight (sigh) she didn't wow me as much as other times. I'm very worried she will be in the bottom three.
Casey Abrams – “Your Song” First I must say that I'm very, very glad that Casey got his hair and beard trimmed. He was looking positively scary and even evil the past couple of weeks. It wasn't just his hair and beard either--it was in his eyes as he growled and shrieked. I could not bear watching him. Last night, he did much better. He looked saner. He sang with less growls and I don't think I heard any shrieks at all. The judges saved him last week. I think he's safe on his own tonight.
Jacob Lusk – “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word” I like Jacob. I like the type of music he chooses and the emotion he brings to a song. He is trying harder the past two weeks to hold back a little and when he does, he's more successful. This performance was not the best one Jacob has ever had, but he did fine. He should be safe. I predict he'll be in the final four, too. Or it could be Scotty. Still trying to decide between these two.
Haley Reinhart – “Bennie and the Jets” This was my FAVORITE performance of the evening! I have not been a Haley fan in the past, but Ron and I could not stop smiling the whole time she sang. It was infectious. It was fun. We wanted to sing along. Haley had a couple of bottom three weeks, but tonight, she's SAFE!
Bottom Line: Bottom three: Naima, Stefano, and Thia. Who's going home? Hmmm... this is harder but I'll say Stefano.
Best performance of the evening: Haley, Pia, and Lauren.
So, I'll see tonight how I did.
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