Auditions, Concerts, Movie Premiers, and Saying Goodbye...

I have wanted to write for a long time and have just failed to make it a priority... So, I am going to attempt to type up an entry today. I use to be RIDICULOUS about journaling when I was little. I would write at least every other day all through middle school and high school... Then, college hit and I started sucking at recording my life, as my entries became sporadic. It's kinda sad because I feel like this is the most important time in my life - when I am making the greatest and most impactful (apparently that's not a word) decisions of my life. Thus, I have made a goal to be better at blogging and journaling. Let's see if I can uphold my own promise to myself!

Now, I am going to spend but a small moment on this first thought. The whole world is talking about his death, and THOUSANDS and THOUSANDS of people showed up/tuned in for his funeral - Yep. Michael Jackson... MJ. Now, the day I found out that he had died I was a bit saddened because his music truly is INCREDIBLE and a big part of my life. For seminary one day, I was in charge of the morning spiritual thought before we started and I played his song "Man in the Mirror" and handed out the scripture Mosiah 2:17... Yea. Haha! Laugh all you want, but it started some amazing spiritual thoughts... and it started me listening to his music each morning on my way to school... I listened to MANY things in my little Saturn (I miss that car!), but Michael Jackson's greatest hits and Celine Dion's Drove All Night CD are the ones I recall most.

Anyway, I am saddened that he is gone and that his music is done being created, but what we have will last forever and it was fabulous. I did play his greatest hits album while baking & decorating sugar cookies for my Visiting Teachies... Haha...

However, I do think that it is a bit mad how the world is still going on about the death. I mean this with NO disrespect because I LOVED the man as an artist... Nevertheless, I was listening to a radio talk show the day before his memorial service (which I did watch and was amazing) and a man stated that he was very upset over everyone's attention being focused there. This man's son died in an explosion while serving in Iraq the same day as Michael , and wasn't even mentioned. This is probably because this boy wasn't famous, but shouldn't we be looking toward those who are putting their lives on the line for our freedom and remembering them as well. It's just that no one would have really cared, I fear. I guess what I am saying is that when the world is facing so many problems and remained transfixed upon one death for a man we didn't know, it seems superfluous and sad.

I guess it's hard because I know people get connected to celebs and feel like they know them. Example, do I really know David Archuleta? No. But I guarantee my family would feel a little loss if he passed away. I know people feel connected - it's the beauty of music and entertainment. I just think that we need to keep all things in moderation. That's a good way to put it... Mourn. Listen to some Michael songs (I did!). Feel that piece of childhood pass on (sounds dramatic, but I did feel that way a bit). Then, move on. Focus on the other people and problems in the world. It's a hard line for many, and I understand... but really? There were missile issues over in North Korea and a huge car bombing in Iraq that killed some of our soldiers... just sayin'.

Sidenote: I find it interesting that in America there is such focus on celebrities and the status of the actor, musician, entertainer, etc. In England it is just not like that. While i was doing my study abroad in London people walked past Billy Murry, Orlando Bloom, Jake Davenport, Joseph Marcell, Jeremy Irons, and Judi Dench and did not freak out. Yea, I am sure people have stopped and asked them for pictures at times, but the hype for who they are is more respect for their talent... It's interesting, and kinda nice. I have a lot of American pride, but I could move back there for a time... and I have more a desire to do so currently in my life.

Now, let us actually MOVE ON.

I am beyond excited about my upcoming few weeks! My oh my... First, I am heading to Denver on Saturday for American Idol tryouts, and am ecstatic about it. It's going to be a lot of fun and a great experience, no matter what happens. I am heading there with hopes, but no expectations. I think that is the only way to look at this experience when it is SO unpredictable about what they are looking for and how your luck goes with going to the right audition table for your voice. Thus, I go with no expectation about getting a shot to share the voice with the world, but I hope I will have that opportunity. If I don't have it through this medium, I have finally tried (after trying to go for two years - haha!) and will focus on sharing through other means until things open up for me. The end. Haha!

Next, I am going to see The Fray with Jack's Mannequin next weekend, both of with bands I ADORE! Then, I am seeing Parachute (The boys I went to HS with) and Secondhand Serenade (I saw them before & they were fab) the weekend after. I love concerts! Thus, this is already a great month. Haha! I recently saw SheDaisy and Jonas Brothers in concert when I was one of the stage managers for Stadium Fire - both gave a great show. It was cool to watch their sound checks and be involved with making the show happen... Not gonna lie, I absolutely love stage managing and working on concerts/shows. It is still an option for grad school... but music is always my first desire.

LAST, and no where near least... HARRY POTTER 6 IS COMING TO THEATERS! Haha... No, really. I am beyond excited because the film looks phenomenal. The acting has improved with the years of the actors and the effects have developed to create a visual masterpiece. I have seen many clips and trailers, I re-watched movies 1-5 and re-read books 6 & 7 in preparation, and I have already gotten tickets for the day it opens at 10am. I would have gotten premier tickets, cause I really don't want to wait even a few hours - and I have gone to all the other premiers - but, I was not sure when I would be coming back from Denver time-wise from the audition. I get back around 11pm the night of the premier, so it wouldn't really happen anyway... sad day. The entire night I will be aching with excitement to witness the greatness that is Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Love it! Haha...

Not to mention, I have a little bit of a celeb crush on Rupert Grint... The one who plays Ron... I know, that just deteriorated everything that I just wrote above - haha! No, seriously people can say what they'd like about that little red-headed boy(who is almost 21, so he's not that little - haha!), but I think he is just darn right cute. The end... haha!

Anyway, I had stuff of greater substinance to discuss, but alas, I chose not to this time around... I write about MJ, concerts, Am. Idol (what's new?), and Harry Potter. Heyyyyyo Yeah! Haha...

Um, yea. Go enjoy the HP6 movie and see a few concerts. That is all I have left to say.

*muah*

Song of the Day: Last night on So You Think You Can Dance two dancers did a routine to a song called Show Me Heaven by Maria McKee... A little old school, and I SHOULD have known it. I thought about using it as my AI audition piece because I love it so much, but I am not. Anyway, Maia McKee's Show Me Heaven is the song of the day! Enjoy!!!

(I put the video of the dance below because the music video did nothing for me... but y'all should check out the WHOLE song!)

Walking-Contradiction, or Just Human?

I have been thinking about the ways I am my own contradiction... and yet, how that is not necessarily a negative feature, at times. I am not sure how to address this topic, so I will be short in my thoughts.

I was talking with one of my friends about different events in my life and how I tend to become the focus of a conversation because I am loud and dominant. I'm a little crazy and I speak my mind - sometimes, I am even witty or funny! Sometimes... :) I don't mind that. I mean, I don't mind being the one in the spotlight for those reasons... I actually don't really even think about it or notice while it is taking place.


Next, when I am on stage... That's a literal spotlight for you! Haha... The focus is on me because it is meant to be. I am performing with the desire to be watched and listened to. I love those moments. I mean, I love those moments. I live to be heard - as we all do - and my desire to be heard is stronger when I am singing or acting. I am in the spotlight, and it's a positive thing, I think.

I also find the focus centered my way when I teach, but that's different. That's legit cause the students I am working with SHOULD be paying attention to my instructions, etc. Just a thought... Haha!

Then, there are the times when people call attention to me. It might be in a group when no one is focused on me or when attention is already on me... or, it might be in a more intimate setting when I am only with one other person. Either way, someone brings my name to the forefront or says something about me that brings all eyes or attention on me. My shoes become a little more interesting. The potato is to hot with all eyes on me and I pass it to someone else in the circle, and quickly. It's not that I am embarrassed - that isn't too common with me, cause I figure, 'that's life' - I just don't enjoy the attention. I know, I know... For someone who tends to draw attention to herself quite frequently that's bizzarre. Or, perhaps the reader believes this statement to be false...

It's true.

I was thinking about wedding toasts, for example. Now wait, hear me out! I was thinking about how I am going to enjoy what people say to me, but not in the way it is said. What do I mean? Well, nice things being said about me are much apprecaited and welcome. However, in a group setting it just feels like it should be more personal... and I don't want the attention there. Perhaps it will be better because I am with someone...

I remember the times that people would stand up on my birthday and say something they loved about me (seminary, family dinners, SHA, etc.) and I always greatly appreciated the words, but felt... not awkward... what's the word? It just felt like something personal in a generalized setting, and it felt misplaced. No, awkward might be correct. I guess I must admit that it is a bit awkward for me.

I would say that it is just a group setting that I feel this, but that would be a lie. When I'm with someone alone even, in a more intimate setting (not just lovey-dovey, either) it feels a touch awkward. If the focus is on me because I am just talking to someone or a group, and it happens to be on me at that moment - no sweat. However, if the focus is forced on me - even for a positive reason - it's a tad awkward. Not intimidating. Not unmeaningful. Perhaps, just a little awkward...

I think that everyone feels this way to some extent. I mean, I guess some people really love the spotlight all the time, and some people hate it all the time... For me, it's just a matter of circumstance.

There is no real point of this entry other than to record my current thoughts... I just wanted to document how I felt about the lime-light. There are times I long to be in it, times I am chill being a part of it, and times when the moment I am placed in the spotlight seems to drag on through eternity.

Today, I didn't even touch the limelight (as I stayed home finishing HP6), and that felt pretty nice too... :)

*muah*

Song of the Day: I have grown obsessed with this song since someone performed it at the gig Ben and I had last weekend. It's by a girl names Sia (who I had only heard one song of hers previously), and the song is called, Soon We'll Be Found. It's an AMAZING song, and I have posted the music video below - It's way unique & creative... Love it. Enjoy!


Sia Soon We'll Be Found - Click here for more free videos

P.S. A Funny Quote from a friend's facebook - haha!:
We're humans. We live on land. Shark's live in the water. So, if you're swimming in the water and a shark bites you, that's called trespassing. That is called trespassing. That is not a shark attack. A shark attack is if you're chillin' at home, sittin' on the couch, and a shark comes in and bites you; now that's shark attack.

WORD.

Jet Planes and Self-Confidence

WARNING: The first few paragraphs written are somewhat unimportant... The meat is served after the potatoes today.

This past month I have accumulated four plane tickets... I have gotten to feel like quite the big spender, until I looked into my dismal bank account and realized that this big spender better knock it off.

First, my ticket to the American Idol Finale... regrets? I think NOT! Not one... not one.

Second, my ticket to HAWAII!!! That's right folks... While many of my friends and family are celebrating Thanksgiving on the mainland, I will be having pineapple with my Turkey and loving a Hawaiian life for the week... 7 FULL days in Hawaii with my friend Sarina! I have never missed a Thanksgiving with my family, but I feel okay about branching out. As long as I'm not missing Christmas... NO WAY! Oh, AND I got my ticket to Hawaii for under $300... yea.

Third, my ticket from SLC to LAX so that I can actually get to Hawaii... Haha! Might not count, except for the fact that I had to buy the tickets from separate airlines.

Fourth, and finally, my ticket from SLC to Denver so that I can do the AI auditions... Keep those fingers crossed ladies and gentlemen! I could be your next American Idol... or someone on the showcase reels that - Haha! Dare to dream is how I see it... :) My friend Katie and I are going together to both try-out, and Sarina is meeting up with us while we're there. No matter what, it'll be fun!

I'm thinking... Almost Doesn't Count by: Brandy. However, I still really like Foolish Games (Jewel), Feels Like Home (Bonnie Raitt), When I Fall In Love (Nat King Cole), You Had Me (Joss Stone), or Never Gonna Get It (En Vouge).... Though En Vouge and Jewel are at the bottom of my list. Still liking Almost Doesn't Count...

*Sidenote: Sarina is involved in every one of my trips... She is OFFICIALLY dubbed, my travel buddy. I know, right? A big honor...

Now, for the more serious portion of this entry... I was thinking about the "line" people walk on between caring what others think about them and fully disregarding them. Regarding this "line" one should walk... sometimes I think I am right on, and sometime I think that I don't care enough! Oops.

This was my little thought - take it as you may - I wasn't sure how to word it, but it was this: Don't care about what others think, care about how they feel.

Except - Peoples thoughts are important... inside of certain arenas. I like to believe that people care about my opinions and ideas. I like to believe that people are actually listening when I am talking... Well, 90% of the time. Ten percent of the time I say whack things and people just look at me funny. That's when I wish they were tunin' out a bit more... Haha!

Thus, I came up with "take-two" of the idea above: It's not okay to worry about what others think, but its a necessity to care about what others feel. Bare with me as I try to explain...

When someone has a fleeting thought like, "Oh my word - did you see what she was wearin'?!," then they don't put much emotion or real feeling behind it. Or, when someone sees you do something stupid or embarrassing, ten seconds later they forget it. It's a quick judgment. However, when someone is talking about their beliefs on a subject or an idea they have, they have put some form of time into it, and it is laced with emotion. Thus, those are the things that we should care about.... Or, for example, when someone has worked really hard to put together a nice, fancy dinner party and their date shows up in jeans, and that embarrasses the host... Their work had time put forth and was also and emotion grew from giving that time. Therefore, we should care about how the person feels within the situation.

(Sidenote to Self: Time = Passion & Connecting Emotions)

I guess it comes down to two things.

One, are your motives for wanting or not wanting to do, say, wear, be something selfishly based. In other words, if you are worried about what others think because of how it might make you appear, though it has no real affect on others, that is selfishly driven. I'm not saying this is always wrong, but if you are constantly focused on what others think about you, then you are focusing on yourself - not others. Thus, you run an even greater risk of feeling self-conscious and holding yourself back from doing, saying, wearing, believing, listening to, or being what you want.

Let's be honest (I know, you're welcome for not lying...) - People are mostly concerned with their own lives. They have busy days and personal storms to weather. They do not have time to focus on your mistakes, embarrassments, wardrobe choices, etc, etc. If they do have time to constantly focus on those minuscule things, they don't have much of life anyway. As harsh as it may sound, at that moment they are taking up space.

You are not THAT important... in that aspect... :)

*Disclaimer - I know that many of my friends spend a generous amount of time focusing outward, and helping others. That's different.

Now, second... It's about self confidence. Are you comfortable in your own skin, and with your own skin??? It's great to care about what others say and think when you have self confidence. See, when you are comfortable with who you are, truly comfortable with you are, only the things that matter will stick. Now, I know we all have insecurities, but it is something to strive for - and you can be confident in yourself and still have things you wish were better about you.

Example - I feel fairly confident in who I am, but I do wish I was skinnier sometimes. It is something I am working on. Do I think about it all the time? No... but it is a thought in my mind that has become a personal goal, rather than a weighted focus. However, I have grown confident in who I, and now when people make comments about my weight, it doesn't really bother me. I have enough to think about besides adding someone's snarky (or accidentally misplaced) comments. They know what I am (or what they think I am). I know what I am becoming... That is my focus.

So, in shorter terms: Be confident and not selfish. Look outward and inward with positivity... Judge others as you like to be judged, and don't sweat the minuscule things - aka: Don't waste your time.

Time is a gift. Time is precious.
*muah*

Song of the Day: Hm... As I was watching "17 Again" for the third time in theaters (don't be a hater - it was in the dollar theater... haha! I encourage EVERYONE to see it because it is hilarious and a good, clean film...), there was a song that played in one of the closing scenes that I fell in LOVE with. It's by Cat Powers, and it's called The Greatest.



Listen to it. Love it. Enjoy!
P.S. The video is interesting... I don't know if it's legit as HER music video, but it makes you think. The LYRICS are incredible...

Personal Pathways and Fair Judgments

I am thankful for great Sunday School teachers. I mean, the majority of my Sunday School teachers have been good, but only a select handful are truly great teachers. Most follow the lesson plan ideas and are scared to deviate if it feels appropriate, or deviate so far from what the lesson is meant to be that nothing ties together at the end. However, every once in awhile you find a really exceptional teacher... Someone who cares about what those who comment are saying, and validated those individuals. Someone who know how to follow the spirit and speak appropriately not only doctrine, but their opinions or thoughts - and clarifies the difference.

Most of the Sunday School teachers in my current single's ward (for non-LDS folk, that just means where I live in boundaries that send me to a certain church building) are fairly great. Some struggle a little bit, but we all bond together and try to help that person's confidence grow, as we watch them improve over time. See, in my religion we don't pay our Sunday School teachers, or Bishops, etc... It is purely volunteer work, and we are placed according to where the Bishop feels is best for us to be, and within our comfort level... Don't worry - they always ask first, and you can give your thoughts on the calling.

Anyway, back to Sunday School...

Yesterday, I was sitting through what could have been a potentially common-placed lesson. However, our teacher was incredible... Really, I found myself re-realizing things about myself and about our Heavenly Father, and I love those moments. Those moments meaning, moments in which you learn something new or re-learn something with more power to it this time around.

We discussed how our Heavenly Father has designed the plan of salvation, or life, to allow us to live it as individuals. Yes, I believe that we have been given boundaries and regulations to live our lives by, but he lets us decide how we wish to accomplish our personal destinies and plans. For example, some members of my religion serve full-time missions, and some serve in different ways. I had always wanted to go on a mission growing up, and I made it a goal to strive for -thus, I was always living so I could be worthy to go. However, as the time grew closer I was pulled toward other things and could strongly feel that I wasn't suppose to go on a full-time, knockin' doors mission. I thought, maybe I am feeling this way because I'm not worthy to go, or not as spiritual... haha!

I laugh now because I have have realized that this has nothing to do with it. I realized how ridiculous, and somewhat asinine, that is. I am a great person, but it wasn't necessary for me to go on a mission at that time. I am being used to spread the gospel in other ways and I am working on other things that are important for me to accomplish in this life. My "path" in life is unique and personal, and I feel good about where I am heading...

This lead to a discussion about everything in this life being personal and individual, including the final judgment. This quote came up from Joseph Smith, "God judges men according to the use they make of the light which He gives them." Now, I don't know about you, but I find such comfort in that thought. I know that I will be judged only according to what I know and go through... He doesn't say everyone in one religion is judged one way, or everyone who hangs out shall be judged together... Because even though my best friends and I have a lot of the same experiences, we aren't the same people and our understanding is different because we see some things differently. It would be unfair to lump people together - even if it's similar people. Thus, I will be judged according to where Heavenly Father believes that I, Linze, am... and no one else. I love that.

Now, this also led me to think about two other things... One, I think that the LDS Church is often looked at as the most strict, or exclusive, out of any religion because others believe that our view is that if you aren't Mormon, you will be damned. Not true. Not even CLOSE... and thank goodness for that, because some of the BEST people I know aren't LDS and the thought that they would go to Hell for that one reason wouldn't make sense.

Now, I believe what the LDS religion teaches, and yes, I believe it is correct and is the full, true gospel. Does that mean I do not believe that other churches or individuals have truth? No. I believe that almost every religion has a piece of the truth, or many pieces of truth and light. However, I believe that my church has been given the full truth. It's not about "my horse is bigger or better than your horse," or about a hierarchy. I hope that every individual has a testimony of their religion, a strong conviction to stand beside, and can say that they knew its true, like I can for the LDS church. Otherwise, why would you stick in that church or belief system? It's true for any belief in our life, not even just religious ones... Why would you stick next to a belief if you didn't really believe in it? Figure out what you believe and stand for that...

For me, I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is found in its fullness through The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I know that. See, I believe that beliefs can turn to knowledge... Thus, I am going to believe that we have the full gospel, and I want others to have the opportunity to partake of it. However, if they do not accept what I know, then they will be judged according to the light and knowledge they do have - not what I believe, but by what believe. I think that proves that God loves us - and that he loves us individually. He has designed it so that we can all succeed if we will but come unto Him. It's beautiful...

Then why be LDS? Can't you be any religion? These are tough questions, and I would be happy to answer them if someone wishes me to expand. However, at this moment I am going to move on to thing #2 that I noticed...

Second, I thought about how we all tend to judge others on a daily basis. Whether its how someone is dressed or what they believe, we see others and conclude (usually quickly) what we think of that person. We form these ideas about who someone is, based upon our personal analysis of them, when that doesn't matter. God's analysis, and our personal analysis of who we are, are the only ones that mean anything... We look at others and think, "They know better than to do that!" However, do they?

Who is anyone to say what another really understands or believes is right or wrong? Who are we to look at someone's actions and assume they agree with us as to what is right or wrong? They might not.

Yes, I believe in righteous judgment - in the sense that you must be wise in the company you keep and things you get involved in. It's a good thing to judge a situation and see if its where you should be. It's good to look at someone, and talk with them, and see if they are the kind of person you want to continually surround yourself with. However, it's not okay to assume the person believes like you do.

Does this mean I am saying we should lay back on what we believes and not stand up for them? No. Everyone should definitely feel comfortable voicing their opinions. Everyone should stand for what they believe in and fight for what they believe is right and true. But, we should allow others to voice their opinions to, and understand when they do not agree with us. They don't have to - and you don't have to agree with them either. That is the beauty of individuality, freedom of mind, and being allowed to use agency.

Imagine if God had put us all on earth with the same routines and we were forced to believe the same things, do the same things, and not make any opinions and choices for ourselves. We wouldn't learn anything. We would not grow. We would be robots... and then, what's the point. Everyone has agency for a reason, and I believe that we should respect how everyone uses their agency to create beliefs and create who they are. You do not have to agree with someone to respect and accept them.

You do not have to agree with someone to respect and accept them... We are all unique and different, and thank goodness for that.
*muah*


Song of the Day: I have missed doing this... Today's song is by Jason Reeves - who should be MUCH bigger than he is, cause his work is INSANE, off the hook! I did JUST discover him too....

Check Jason Reeves' song, Photographs and Memories, in the video below. He also has an AMAZING song called Someone Somewhere and a cool duet with Colbie Caillat before she was famous called Permanent. Just love him, and ENJOY!

American Idol Finale: Season 9! I was so NOT there... Oh wait. YES I WAS!!!

So, I am still counting today as a Monday... and SOOOOOO:


Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

Now, I shall begin to tell about my amazing week... *sigh* I can say that I HAVE been very blessed in so many fun ways! So, let's no prolong the fun stories any longer...

I so did NOT get American Idol Finale tickets for the Tuesday show last Monday night and nine hours later hop on a plane to LA. I did NOT rent a car, buy a plane ticket, call/find a friend to stay with, and pack a suitcase in an an hour and half time limit so as to get enough sleep for the following day. Then when I went to bed, I did NOT spend the whole night waking up with bubbling excitement anyway! Haha...

Break Time from "Not Me Monday": So, on Tuesday morning, I awoke to grab my stuff and head to the airport with my friend Sarina (a pic of us after a LONG Wednesday experience is on the side!) so that we could be in line for our Am. Idol tickets by noon. We had a smooth plane ride there (thanks to Delta - back was whack - SO bumpy... No thanks to US Airways), and then had a little stress time when we found out our car rental place was having issues. Finally, we canceled that reservation and hopped on a bus over to Avis's rental stop, and rented a car from there. When we finally got on the road, Sarina got to experience a bit of my stressed side as we tried to figure out the GPS machine (I had never used one, so at first it was weird for me... I loved it by that evening) and find our way from the airport to the Nokia Theater. I really feel like I know my way around LA & West Hollywood now, though. Anyway, we got there by noon, parked, I took a breather, we met Janae and her friend, and we got a tickets!

We had decent seats for Tuesday night - back of the main floor - but it wouldn't have mattered cause I was just WAY excited to be there! Kris and Adam both did amazing that night... except for the coronation song. Now, I know that Kara has written some great songs and sings great (If your don't believe me on that, watch the playbacks from her "bikini experience" on Wednesday night's show), but that song is just NOT that great. Sorry. It's cheesy and dull... Too bad for Kris and Adam though cause it was nothing special to end Tuesday night with.

Anyway, both the boys did AMAZING with their first songs, GREAT with their second songs, and DECENT with what they had to work with for the final songs. The show was great to watch, I was loving each moment - drooling over both boys and their beautifulness in appearance and voice... Sorry, it's true. Haha! Oh, and Carrie Underwood performed after and was SO great - as always!

Overall, Tuesday was great for the show, and afterwards we stayed with Janae in her downtown LA, beautiful apartment and had a good time visiting/catching-up... We all went to London Study Abroad together!

Oh, and sidenote: There is a place in downtown LA that everyone should check-out when you got through there... Yogurtland! Haha... It is seriously the coolest little hang-out/date spot you could imagine... Okay, maybe I just really liked it, but it was super cool! They offer a bunch of different soft serve, but real, frozen yogurts and toppings, YOU measure it out to the amount and kind you want of everything, and then pay accordingly... cool concept because you get EXACTLY what you want... and the spoons were cute. Haha!

Now, Wednesday.... back to "Not Me Mondays!"

I did NOT have tickets to the Wednesday night show... Okay, I really didn't. SO, I did NOT walk around and talk to the people in charge of the theater, the show, etc. asking for opinions on how to get in... Then, we so did NOT show this girl where to go to get in line, and she did NOT offer us her extra ticket spot! Haha...

So, break time again: We had a ticket for ONE of us, and then this girl, Joanna, being the doll she is did some talking to the guy in charge while we ran to have lunch with Janae and get her food, and got ANOTHER spot for us. LOVE HER! Haha... So, we waited in line for a long time with her and got to know her really well - way cute girl! - and then around four they let us inside to "place us" seat-fillers.

Now, let me take a time-out and explain what a "seat-filler" does. A seat-filler is there to look cute and make the audience look full, specifically when someone important is not currently in their seat. Thus, we were placed in the first THIRTY ROWS in "celebrity seating" and told that this was our spot until someone came to take that spot. Then, when that "important person" came we were to move to another available seat.

I started in the sixth row, in the middle left section and Sarina started way far left a few rows back. Then, someone came to take her seat and she moved over to sit by me. That is when Lisa Tucker and Mandisa from Season 5 of Idol and the show House of Pain came and sat next to us. Granted, we did not know they were from season 5 cause we both didn't watch hardcore till last season, but I thought they were on House of Pain or some show like that. They were both very sweet and chill... We talked to Lisa more than Mandisa, though I did tell Mandisa she was "workin' it in that green dress!" Haha...

Anyway, after a few moments I got moved back to sit in the tenth row a little closer to the middle, where I stayed the rest of the show! Sarina stayed in that previous sport the whole time, so we were BOTH very lucky! It was SO cool to be there, but even cooler to be THAT CLOSE to the performers. I was sitting right across from Amanda Bynes and Janice Dickinson, in back of Christina Applegate, and in the same section as David Cook, Daughtry, Carrie Underwood, Heather Locklear, the girls from iCarly, and so many other celebs... but more than that, I was RIGHT THERE for the performances. I was right next to the stage and right in the experience of the idols and other performers...

Jason Mraz, Queen Latifah, Rod Stewart, Cyndi Lauper, David Cook, Fergie & Black Eyed Peas, Santana, Lionel Richie, Steve Martin (who know he wrote music?!), Keith Urban (GREAT performer!), KISS!, and QUEEN!!! Flippin' QUEEN!!!!!! I know, Freddie is gone, but STILL.... AMAZING. I sat there in complete and utter awe. I was in LOVE with this year's line-up.... In LOVE. Plus, all the Idols did fantastic and it was just so inspiring...

kiss @ Yahoo! Video

I was SO moved many times by their genuine love for music and performance. ALL I wanted the whole time was be up there with them, sharing my voice and passion. Yea... haha! Next year? Haha... I don't care in what medium it happens, but I know that I MUST share the talents I have with the world... Plus, I have really decided that life is not worth living if we do not expand and discover the reasons that Heavenly Father has placed us here. There are MANY reasons I feel that I was placed on the earth, and at this specific time, but one reason I feel is to share my love for music, theater, film, and my passion for entertainment... esp. good, clean, fun entertainment. We need more of that...

SO, after the show (THAT WAS AMAZING!) we skipped outside to our car to get our cameras - not allowed in the Nokia - and headed to the interviewing arena. No fear, I am posting pics as I type... Haha!
We got there as the top ten (minus Adam and Kris) and Paula were out and we took a ton of pics of them... Then, shortly after they were in interviews that brought out Kris Allen - our newest American Idol. We took pics of him and then got asked by one of the producers if we wanted to go into a taping of American Idol Extra - Heck YES, please! Haha...





We saw Kris get interviewed a little bit, and then they finally brought out Adam... They are both SO sweet, but I must say that Adam just has this whole attractive element about him. Kris is beautiful and SO talented, more of what I would listen to more often, but Adam... He is almost untouchable in many forms and maybe that is what is so attractive...


I don't know! Haha... Seriously, he was just VERY genuine and sweet, but also VERY attractive... Sarina and I could not stop looking at him and his cute little smile. Haha! You can judge for yourself and enjoy all the many pictures I have posted...

I have one of each of the top five except Allison, because I didn't get a good one of her... I also have one of Megan cause she is from Utah as well, and one of Anoop, cause he represents the South so beautifully and was my FAVE! Though Adam DID carry some heavy competition forth... :)

Okay, enough of that. I am rolling my own eyes at myself...

The show finale was amazing, inspiring, and I am excited for my audition in a few weeks... Cross those fingers! Haha... It's one in a million, but in the words of Kelly Clarkson's song Long Shot - "It's a LONG shot, but I say why not! If I say forget it, I know that I'll regret it... It's a LONG shot, just to beat these odds... but if I never take there's no chance!" Haha... Thank you, Miss Idol Season One... haha!
*muah*

Song of the Day: Well, I have posted a link for Adam Lambert's Performance with KISS from the Finale above, and everyone should watch it cause it was AMAZING! Even if you're not a Kiss fan... plus, when on a huge screen you can see my head in the background... Haha!

BUT, the song of the day is actually going to a JOB, if you will.... I have picked some different options for a song I might potentially use for auditions... I wanna know thoughts, so check out a song or two from the list below that you don't know.... They are good ones! :)

SONG LIST:
Foolish Games or Meant For Me by Jewel
Open Arms or Faithfully by Journey
Lost by Anouk
(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman by Aretha Franklin
When I Fall In Love by Nat KIng Cole/Celine Dion
Feels Like Home by Chantal Kreviazuk
I Turn To You by Christina Aguleria or All-4-One
Old Love by Eric Clapton
All I Know by Garfunkel
Killin' Me Softly by The Fugees
One Fine Day by Natalie Merchant
I Could Fall In Love by Selena
Winter by Tori Amos
Heavily Broken by The Veronicas

Here I Go Again... Hello L.A.!!!!!

So... I just happened to have ANOTHER stroke of luck. In the past few hours, I have been the most spontaneous I have EVER been! I have: Bought a plane ticket to LA, rented a car, packed my clothes, found a place to sleep in LA, and all because.... Dun, Dada, Dun!!!

I got American Idol Finale tickets!!! Haha... I am beyond stoked... This finale is gonna be TIGHT! Maybe, I will even meet Anoop and Allison. That is not TOO much to ask for, right? Last year I met Jason Castro and Ramiele, so maybe....

I will report in three days about the AI finale and my AMAZING last two weeks of life... Can I just say, the Lord is good to me? The Lord IS good to me. Really, he knows what I need and when I need it... He loves us all so much.

Peace y'all!
*muah*

The song of the day: I have been working with a local band these past few weeks that I have loved since my sophomore year of college - they are TIGHT! Their names, you ask?

Truman! This is their song, I Want You There, from their upcoming album to be released on June 12th after they open for Kelly Clarkson on June 11th in Orem, UT. Sorry... I gotta talk my boys up something good... They are AMAZING and some of the most sincerely, caring people I have ever met. Really. ENJOY!

Outbreaks and Breakdowns.... and Discovering Superwoman.

I believe that the student body at the school I work in decided that today would be a great day to go insane. I don't know why. I don't know what could have prevented this. Perhaps nothing could have stopped the mayhem of behavior... There must be something in the school water fountains...

Good thing I drink bottled water.

Today I dealt with FOUR (Count em' - FOUR.) behavioral issue breakdowns. These kids wouldn't even try to approach their favorite things, like free-choice silent reading. I do not simply mean that these children would not "comply" or "obey..." I do not mean that they wouldn't do anything. No. These children FLIPPED OUT... There was kicking, flopping on the floor, yelling, crying, and more whining than a therapist could handle. Who was in charge or making sure that these students were okay and getting them do some work (including the state testing that is going on this week - could be a supporting cause or the outbreak)? Who had to take care of the rampant breakdowns, one right after another all day long?

... That would be ME.

It's okay because they are kids that I love and adore (usually - haha!) and I like helping them calm down and talking about their feelings... However, it was a LOT today and I just wish I knew why everyone decided to crack on the same day. I could say that it WAS the state testing, but that it only true up to a point... No. This was just a day that every kid decided to let their problems from home, personal feelings of inadequacy, petty annoyances, etc. come out full-swing for the world to see.

I felt like I was a mother without ever having children... I really love those kids, but did they all have to breakdown TODAY? Haha... I guess this proves that as a mother if I have more than one child at a time, they might choose to break down at the same, exact moment. In fact, I am sure that my brothers and I fed off of one another most of the time. God bless, literally, Jon and Kate with their sextuplets and set of twins...

Overall, I would say this was a good day.

I guess every girl DOES have a bit of superwoman inside of them... and today I found my part.

*muah*

Song of the Day: I went to High School with this band!!! They are fabulous - so talented and nice guys... They deserve all the support and press they are currently receiving, and I hope their fan-base and success continues. They use to be called Sparky's Flaw (I liked that name), but now we have... PARACHUTE!!!

Parachute - She Is Love
Uploaded by UniversalMusicGroup

Listen to Parachute's first single, She Is Love - a great song and awesome message! Love it. Love them. You should love them too.