This is...American Idol

I'm a crazy fan of American Idol, and most other reality shows to be honest. But Idol is definitely at the top of my list. I love the stories of the contestants, I love to hear them sing, I'm enamored by their choices, I like to read their interviews, I'm so intrigued by who America chooses and why. I actually think Idol is a sociological study at the core. When it all comes down to it, though, it's also just about the music and picking my favorite.

For the past two or three years I've had two great friends who I have enjoyed the show with: Katie and Jherika. This year the three of us were lucky enough to have floor seats at the kick-off show at the Rose Garden (Portland, OR) and then meet the Idols twice: a pre-show meet and greet with a signing, and an after-party mingling. Somewhat of a dream come true and we had a fabulous time. (Almost) all of the Idols were seriously down-to-earth young people, very appreciative of everyone who came out, and acted amazed that so many people loved them. They were kind and didn't mind taking the time for a picture and autographs and a little bit of small talk.

Danny Gokey was so sweet and was actually witnessing to some people; what a guy!

And there's no way we could have gone without a picture with Adam Lambert. He was not even close to my favorite and I actually found him kind of creepy and didn't really enjoy his musical set. But what the heck, when you're that close...you just have to take a picture! And ignore the black fingernails on your bare skin :-)

Katie and her fave, Anoop Desai...He did a very sultry rendition of Always on My Mind. We were stunned...very pleasantly surprised.

And here is me and my boyfriend for about 2 minutes. He called me his #1 fan and kissed the top of my head. But when we asked him to "repetez s'il-vous-plait" for the sake of another picture, he was afraid we'd sell it to TMZ. Like I'd even know how to go about it. Oh well, I'm happy enough with this picture.

I know many of you didn't think Matt was that great during the season; but I love the "crooners" and especially when he sang "Let's Get It On." Is that wrong? Maybe, maybe not. Either way he actually had one of the best personalities, joking around with his fans, and making them feel the love. I miss my Idol friends; but I'm glad I at least have pictures to remember those good old times, and real friends (Katie and Jher) to play a couple rounds of "remember when..." with :-) And if you're not a fan of the show...you should watch the new season next year.