Buckle Up . . . Again!

Until last year, I had never watched American Idol, at all. I had a friend at work who got wrapped up in it the first couple of seasons. But until last year, we didn't get Fox and I didn't know what I was missing. One night, just flipping through channels, I came across the early auditions. By the end of the season, I was totally hooked.

My favorite last season was and is Elliot Yamin. But early in the season I admired Katharine McPhee's talent and Chris Daughtry and Taylor Hicks were always favorites.

I don't really like watching the auditions. I wonder first of all what makes people who are so tone-deaf think that they can try out for something like this. It's amazing how many "crazies" there are in the world. Secondly, it's sad to watch someone who says this has always been there dream just be told, "Sorry, no. This isn't for you." But, that's life. It's sad to see that happen to someone, but at some point in life, everyone should have that moment when they realize, "Hey, I'm not ever going to be an underwater basket-weaver." From my own life, I can tell you that I'm happier because I realized early on that I have no mathematical aptitude. Therefore, while I can balance my checkbook (barely) I will never be an accountant.

What I really love is when they get to the longer versions of the songs and the performances really start to be good. I'm not even all that crazy about the competition, except that when one of my favorites goes home, I really miss them. I would almost rather they just let all of them sing every week for a whole season. Just say for like six months they all have to do one song per week. I guess that would be a lot more like Lawrence Welk then.

At any rate, last night the ride began again. I wonder who my favorites will be this year.