From the category archives:

American Idol Recaps

American Idol Results

by Jo-Lynne on March 17, 2010

I've added a few new features to Musings of a Housewife that I hope will be helpful. Over the weekend I created a Whole Foods Resources page that is a great place to start if you are interested in learning more about the whole foods lifestyle. I also compiled my design tutorials into one convenient location. Both are linked in my nav bar. And there is now a Print Friendly button at the bottom of each post, should you feel like printing recipes or information for future reference. Before printing, you will have the option to delete any photos or content you don't need.

It’s that time again! The Idol results show is on and I’m tuning in late once again. Evidently Paige and Tim are in the bottom three, and one more must join them. I’m betting on Katie. BUT. As it turns out, she is safe. And she really looks gorgeous in that saffron yellow.

It looks like it’s down to Lacey and Casey. Awww, how cute. But WHAT is that growth on Lacey’s head?

Lacey’s in the bottom three with Paige and Tim, but I’m hoping she will soon be sent back to safety.

Oh good grief, they’re doing that ridiculous Judge’s Save thing again this season. And of course Ryan puts Ellen on the spot and asks her if anyone is worth saving from the bottom 3. She stumbles and stutters until Simon breaks in and says with confidence, “One.”

Whatever. They’re not saving any of these guys. Sorry. They’re just not.

Before the commercial break, Tim is sent back to safety, so it’s between the two girls.

Um. Blah Blah Blah? WHAT is THIS?

This does it. I am officially old. I sound like my mother and furthermore I don’t care. She was right. Kids today don’t know good music from, well, blah blah blah.

Good GRIEF.

So um. Can we get back to the results please?

Oh no. Lacey is leaving. Dangit, I liked her. I don’t think she was a contender to win it, but I would have sent home 2 or 3 others before her.

Now the judges are all huddled together, pretending to discuss whether or not they are going to “save” her. Sure, with 11 contestants left, they are going to use the save tonight? I seriously doubt it.

And they don’t. But that was a great choice of song for her to go out on. She sounded great, I think we’ll be seeing more of her.

And that’s it for tonight!

Don’t forget to tune in to The Fly Lady radio show around 11 AM EST tomorrow. I’ll be on her show talking about balance and organization along with four of my other Verizon Palm Pre Plus team members. I’ll even shine my sink and get dressed right down to my shoes and socks for the occasion. (Those are the only two things I remember from my Fly Lady days. Shhhh. Don’t tell her I’m a flunkie.)

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American Idol Recap: Top 12

by Jo-Lynne on March 16, 2010

in American Idol Recaps, Reality TV Junkie

Finally we’re down to the Top Twelve and it’s Rolling Stones night. The Rolling Stones are probably my favorite rock and roll band, and next to Springsteen, I’m sure they comprise the most songs on my iPod so it goes without saying that I am looking forward to tonight.

I’m blogging the old-fashioned way, with pen and paper. You see, I left the power cord to my Macbook in Nashville, and my husband and I have been sharing his ever since. Tonight his podcast trumped my live blogging so I’m sitting here with a pen and paper, hoping that I can transcribe my chicken scratch later on tonight.

(So far it is successful.)

First up: Michael Lynche singing I Wanna Kiss You. The falsetto is cool. He’s a showman for sure. I like it; I don’t love it, but it’s a solid performance.

Next Didi sings Playing With Fire and even 2 hours later, as I type this up, I’d say this is one of the most memorable performances of the night. There wasn’t a lot of range but the emotion was there. Good song choice. Simon calls it a solid but not brilliant performance. I guess that kind of sums it up.

Casey James sings It’s All Over Now. Another solid but not wow performance. There just isn’t a lot of range, and this week was kind of a gimme for him anyway. OMG, I love Ellen. Hilarious. I’ll agree with Simon again — it was nothing special. I was kind of looking for something more.

Lacey is up, and how cute is her dad She sings Ruby Tuesday, a favorite of mine. I think it was a good song choice for her, but I was really hoping for more. Maybe I know the original too well, but I wasn’t crazy about this. I’m still hoping she makes it back next week though.

Andrew Garcia’s parent interview is interesting. It’s supposed to focus on his mom, but she is like a zombie and his dad does all the talking. Finally this week Andrew is back. I love the passion and intensity. Randy says it’s pitchy, but I’m with Ellen — I say this is his best performance yet.

Katie Stevens sings Wild Horses. She’s a sweetie, but she never manages to get past the cruise ship performances. I can’t help but wish Lilly was here instead.

Tim Urban is from a family of 10. WOW. He sings Under my Thumb. It’s good, not great. I mean, he’s on pitch and all. He’s getting more confident. I dunno; I’m just not excited yet.

Siobhan Magnus is singing Paint It Black, and I instantly know I’m going to love it. But I didn’t know I was going to love it this much. LOVE HER. If Crystal has any competition this season, it’s Siobhan.

Lee DeWyze is singing Beast of Burden. My first impression when I heard he was singing this song was that it’s too safe. But he started singing and I was hooked. I just love the tone of his voice, and he changed up the melody just enough to make it his own. Simon tells him he doesn’t shine, but I remember him saying something similar to David Cook, and look at him now. I think Lee is well on his way to being a recording artist in his own right.

Paige sings Honky Tonk Woman. At first I think she’s finally going to have her Moment this week, but I’m just not getting the country vibe. It’s better than her last few performances, but I’m not quite getting the star quality from her.

Aaron Kelly sings Angie, possibly my least favorite Rolling Stone tune of all time. It’s a respectable performance, but I hereby proclaim that the minimum age on American Idol should be 18, not 16. I think he will be great in another two to five years.

Crystal is acting more like herself this week, but I find it interesting that while all the other contestants speak about their moms, her dad is the only one to speak for her. I don’t know her background story, but I’m willing to bet she had a rough childhood. She sings You Can’t Always Get What You Want, and she doesn’t disappoint. If it weren’t for Siobhan, I’d say we should just give Crystal the title of American Idol and send the rest of them home. She’s clearly the front runner, but I am excited to see what she does next week, and the week after that. And I’m excited to see what Siobhan brings next week, as well as Lee and Casey.

My predictions:

Best of the night? Siobhan.

Going home? Katie.

What say you?

Check out Boomama’s Blog for more Idol recaps!

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American Idol Week 3 Results

by Jo-Lynne on March 11, 2010

in American Idol Recaps

idol-talk It’s Thursday night, which means I have to face my weekly dilemma. Watch Idol and record Survivor? Or watch Survivor and record Idol? It’s tough being a suburban housewife these days. I bet June Cleaver never had to face tricky decisions like this.

So I decided to watch Idol live so that I can use the commercial breaks to catch up on my live blogging, and also so that I can be one of the first to post season nine’s top 12. Maybe I’ll get 50 extra Google hits or something. Woohoo! *whirls index finger in the air*

Didi is the first to take one of the coveted 12 seats. I was slightly worried for her, only because the judges have been so hard on her. I find her incredibly likable, and clearly the American public does too.

Siobhan is also in. Like we were concerned.

Paige and Katelyn come center stage. One will be going home. I’m thinking it’s probably Paige. And I’m wrong. Katelyn is going home. Well, she’s have probably gone home next week, so I’m not incredibly surprised.

And here’s a question I’ve had for, well, ever, at least forever in Idol years. WHY do they have the outgoing contestants sing the song that got them voted out? I’d rather hear someone GOOD give an encore. But maybe that’s just me.

So as Ryan talks to Katelyn, my four-year old blurts: “Mom! Why does she have that stamp on the back of her?” (Referring, of course, to her tattoo.)

Before I have a chance to muster up a response, her older sister explains, knowingly: “It’s a stamp, and it’s there forever.”

R, decisively: “I don’t like it.”

C, with all the wisdom of her seven years: “You don’t have to like it. It doesn’t matter what people look like. It matters if they are nice to you or something.”

Well then. I guess my work here is done.

After a rather lengthy commercial break, Ryan brings four of the guys center stage.

Casey is safe. Tim is safe. And it’s down to Toddrick and Lee. Please please please let Lee be staying. He’s the closest we have to a rocker guy this year. Although Toddrick was quite good last night…

Randy declares Lee as most deserving of the seat with the top 12. Oh no, I’ve got a BAD feeling about this.

But I’m wrong. Lee does get to stay. So much for my intuitions tonight. I’m way off, but I’ve to say, that is possibly the best going out performance in all of American Idol history, at least at this stage in the game — I suppose that’s just proof that they have a stellar group this year.

Cryastal Bowersox doesn’t look well. Does anyone else think so? She doesn’t even look excited about making it to the top 12. I hope she’s okay.

Michael Lynch is wearing a scarf. I wonder if he chose that or if his stylist had to twist his arm. Needless to say, Big Mike is in the top 12.

Why does Ryan have to torture Lacey with hard questions? But she made it, I’m happy to say.

Aaron Kelly made it in. I guess I’m a little surprised, but I’m still thinking Andrew is vulnerable tonight.

Now it’s down to Alex and Andrew, and I really hope Alex gets to stay on for another few weeks. Wow. It’s Andrew Garcia who makes it. Hunh. Well, at least we get to hear Trouble again. I guess I’m taking back what I said about not wanting to hear the outgoing contestants sing their encores. We’ve had two good ones so far tonight. I think I’m enjoying this performance better tonight than I did last night. I really like the uniqueness of his voice. Kinda bummed we won’t be hearing more of him.

Katie and Lilly are the last girls standing, and Kara nails it when she says it’s an odd pairing — one who really knows who she is and another who is really struggling. I’m assuming Katie is going home, right?

WRONG. It’s Lilly. I am shocked. And sorely disappointed. She’s got a good attitude, though. “I just know that there’s an audience out there for me.” *raises hand and waves wildly* I’d buy her album.

Well I am not really in agreement with the top 12 this year, but the true stand outs this season are safely seated among the ones coming back next week for Rolling Stones week. And I do love me some Stones.

What do you think? Did America get it right or wrong tonight?

{ 18 comments }

American Idol Week 3: The Guys

by Jo-Lynne on March 10, 2010

in American Idol Recaps, Uncategorized

idol-talk I’m tuning in a bit late tonight and my DVR is being temperamental so I missed the first performance. Was it any good? Who was it? I tuned in just in time for a Triscuit commercial, which gave me a hankering for some cheese and crackers.

But anyway.

Alex Lambert is getting ready to sing Trouble, and I’m already worried that trouble is what he’s getting into. Great song, but I’m not sure he can pull it off. I dunno, I generally like that unique quality to his voice, but on this, notsomuch. Actually, by the end I was starting to change my mind. The judges liked it. I think he needs another five years. What is he, 17? Googling… Okay, so he’s 19. Well… I’m not sure what I think. What do YOU think?

Now, Tim Urban’s performance of Hallelujah was pretty darn good. It helps that I absolutely adore this song, but it’s almost becoming one of those songs that should go on the Do Not Sing list for a while. But he really pulled it off. WHAT is Ellen doing hopping up on stage? Aw, he’s about to cry. I’m so happy for him.

Andrew Garcia better find that magic he had during Hollywood week or I fear he may be going home tomorrow night. Aaaaaaand… this isn’t it. There was nothing magical about that. And what’s this “peaking too early” nonsense about? So he had one good song. It was a fluke. Either you’ve got it or you don’t. And that’s all I’ve got to say about that.

Okay, now we’re talking. Casey James on a stool with his acoustic guitar and a microphone singing Keith Urban. I think he finally got it right this week. Randy, no… safe? Hm. No, I disagree. I think it was “honest” — to coin one of the judges’ favorite words. Thank you, Ellen. Oh, and then Kara plays the “honest” card. See? Told ya. Simon says it was his second best performance this season, but I actually like this better than the Bryan Adams song from Week One; I think he was trying too hard on that one. But whatever. He should stick around another week for sure.

Aaron Kelly, oh dear. This song is way too big for him. (What do you want to bet one of the judges says that? I predict Randy.) Nice effort, but not age appropriate and his voice just doesn’t have the power this song requires. Now see, Randy actually liked it. But Ellen and I are on the same page. Haha. He just said “Yes ma’am” to Ellen. Which proves my next point — I TOTALLY agree with Kara about the subject matter of the song. Simon at least admitted the vocals weren’t there, so he had part of it right.

Oooooh, Glee commercial. April 13th. Write it down.

Toddrick Hall is taking on Queen. Alright then. I do love this song, especially the Glee version — it’s on my Running playlist, but… Hey now, this is pretty hot. He’s pulling it off. There was a little part there before the grand finish where I wanted more, but I guess he was saving it up for the last note. I’m not quite sure who we’re going to vote out this week.

A whirly skirt? Hunh. Cute. If you’re 15. Or a toothpick.

Clearly I don’t watch commercials much. I’m not quite sure why I feel the need to comment on them.

Ooooh, I’m glad I didn’t miss Michael Lynche in my DVR debacle/fiasco. Not typically my style of music, but this just might make me a convert. Loving Randy’s reaction. And Ellen’s. But what is up with Kara? And is Simon actually being sensitive? Wow.

So who did I miss? Because I’m not sure who to predict will go home. Oh here we go. Recap. Lee Dewyze. And it looks like it was a good one.

To go home tomorrow night, I’m thinking Andrew Garcia and… Alex? Aaron? What say you?

Oh and hey. Check out my Ritter Sport chocolate giveaway on Reviewsings. Yes, I said chocolate. Nom nom.

As usual, you can check out Boomama’s place for more Idol recaps. Over and out.

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American Idol Week 3: Ladies Night

by Jo-Lynne on March 9, 2010

in American Idol Recaps, Reality TV Junkie

idol-talk Greetings tonight from Snot Central, and please pass the Puffs. Ohmyword I haven’t been this sick with a headcold since college, at least so far as I can remember. I feel sorry for anyone who comes within fifty feet of my house this week. Fortunately it’s gorgeous outside so the kids can play with friends after school. Of course, it’s the first week of nice weather we’ve had all year and I can’t even go out and run in it.

But enough about me. Onward to American Idol… I’m not on the top of my game tonight, but I’m afraid if I don’t live blog the show I’ll be asleep by 8:30 so here goes nuttin’.

Poor little Katie Stevens. She chose an appropriate song this week, but what’s going on with her pitch? It’s like she can’t hear the accompaniment or something. I think Kara and Ellen said it all, so I won’t tax myself. Movingrightalong.

I look forward to to seeing what Siobhan Magnus will bring us every week, and this week doesn’t disappoint. Love how she starts out acapella and the way she carries the intensity all the way to the end. Oh shut up, Simon. “The Moment” was the acapella part at the beginning. Or perhaps that big sustained note towards the end. Take your pick.

Lacey Brown has such a great look and such presence on stage. I keep waiting for her to have that breakthrough performance, and I’m not sure this is it. I want it to be. It’s a great song choice for her — I like that it’s more obscure. It’s definitely her best performance to date, but I’m not jumping up and down. I think Simon nailed this one.

Katelyn Epperly is singing one of those songs I wish they would ban from American Idol forever and ever amen. I actually thought she started to pull it together towards the end, but most of it was pretty karaoke-ish. Still, she has a lot of potential. I’d like to see her make it into the Top 12.

As an aside, why is Kara hanging all over Simon?

Oooooh, I’m loving this. This is the Didi I fell in love with during her audition. I love her intensity and the guitar and the coffee shop vibe. Simon and Kara got it right.

Paige Miles is singing. Someone wake me up when it’s over. Talk about not having a moment. I kept thinking maybe she was going to ramp it up or something, but no such luck. If she doesn’t go home on Thursday night I’ll eat this pile of snotty tissues that is growing by the minute.

I love Crystal Bowersox. The end.

Lilly Scott is putting on another solid performance. If she wasn’t following Crystal, I’d be all over this. She’s definitely one of the better contestants this season.

So that’s that. This is a no brainer. Katie Stevens and Paige Miles should go home. They’re both lovely and have bright singing careers ahead of them, but the other contestants are in a different league. It’s like the majors vs the minors. Tell me you’re impressed with my brilliant metaphor. Or tell me to go to bed, either one.

I’m really looking forward to the Top 12 this year. It’s a strong group.

If this recap left you wanting for more, head on over to Boomama’s place where there is likely to be a Mr. Linky with Idol recaps galore in just a little bit.

Meanwhile I’m going to go to bed and practice breathing through my mouth lest I suffocate in my sleep.

Signed,
Stuffy in Philly

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American Idol Results Week 2

by Jo-Lynne on March 4, 2010

in American Idol Recaps

idol-talk Well, one of my predictions was correct. John Park is heading home tonight, although was it just me or did he sound better tonight than he did on Tuesday? I actually saw his potential tonight and I’m kind of bummed we won’t see him again.

On the other hand, I’m not going to miss the “I know God” guy too much, although I think he’s a really nice guy. He just needs to grow up a bit.

Okay, how awesome is it to see Danny Gokey so pumped on life. I didn’t know he’d gone country. That was fun.

So the feel-good portion of the show is over, and it’s time to send two girls home.

I knew when Didi and Michelle were left standing in the back row that Michelle was going home. I knew this, first of all, because AI likes to play mind games with us and it appeared that the judges liked Michelle’s performance last night more than Didi’s, so it stands to reason they were trying to throw us off with that pairing.

And second, Didi is likable and memorable, judging from my comments today and based on my own humble opinion. I’m not sure Michelle stands out in quite the same way. Well, clearly not; she’s probably packing her bags by now.

Aaaaaand so is Haeley. She’s precious; she just needs some time to grow and mature.

So they’re down to 16 contestants, and that’s a wrap.

Housewife. Out.

Hm. Ryan doesn’t do the Seacrest Out thing anymore. Perhaps I should take a clue.

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American Idol Recap: Girls’ Night Week 2

March 4, 2010

Crystal Bowersox is one of my favorites from this season already, and this song is right up my alley. I love this arrangement, and I love her. I’m sorry, but you do NOT hear that in a subway every day. The judges better be nice to her tonight. And they are. THANK YOU.
Haeley Vaughn takes [...]

10 comments Keep reading

American Idol Recap: Boys’ Night Week 2

March 3, 2010

Last week I totally missed the boat with the Idol recaps. I watched both shows a day after the fact, and it wasn’t until I saw Boomama’s Idol recap that I remembered that I was going to blog the show. I even missed the results show because, hello, SURVIVOR? Nuff said.
First of all I feel [...]

8 comments Keep reading

American Idol Recap

January 27, 2010

You know what really pickles my relish? When I carefully set my DVR to record a show, and I go to watch said show, and the show is not available. Sometimes I really HATE technology.
So I only watched the second half of the L.A. auditions.
Los Angeles Auditions:
Andrew Garcia’s story drew me in, but I can’t [...]

12 comments Keep reading

American Idol Recap

January 21, 2010

Well. Sometimes technology is a witch. MomTV didn’t work out for me, but I was able to watch the show. Sarah is so cute. Really, you should check it out. She’s on every week at 1PM.
But now for some Idol Talk!
I finally got around to watching the Atlanta auditions, and I have four words for [...]