The TV And I May Need A Mediator

Oh, y’all. My discontent with the television knows no bounds right now.

Perhaps I should elaborate.

Problem: Melinda Doolittle was voted off of American Idol last night, despite the fact that she was the best of all the contestants and by far and away the most consistent performer week in and week out. Not to mention humble.

Action Taken: American Idol? You’re dead to me.

Problem: (SHANNON, DON’T READ THIS AS IT PERTAINS TO CRITICAL SEASON 6 PLOT INFORMATION) On “24,” former First Lady Martha Logan stabbed her ex-husband, Charles, with a paring knife shortly after she had used said paring knife to SLICE A KIWI, thus proving conclusively that “24” has exhausted its supply of weaponry and, might I add, plotlines.

Action Taken: I’ve given up on “24” this season. I will try it again next season. But if anyone dies in the first three episodes as a result of A MISUSED KITCHEN UTENSIL, I’m done.

Problem: HGTV has been overtaken by wacky new hosts who are all “BADABING” and “WOWZEE” and “SHUT UP THAT TABLE IS SO AWESOME I’M GOING TO STICK MY HEAD THROUGH IT AND THEN SAW THE LEGS OFF!”

Who are these people?

Because here’s a tip for HGTV, and they don’t even have to pay me for it: CHILDREN ARE LOUD. MAMAS DON’T NEED MORE LOUD IN THEIR LIVES.

We need soothing, quiet hosts and hostesses when we tune in for your fine HGTV programming, preferably people who don’t convey the feeling that they’re trying to sell us a used car.

Action Taken: Composing an email to HGTV that says the following:

Dear Sir or Madam,

Home decorating is not a game show.

As such, please tell your on-air personalities to quit screaming at us.

Thank you.

Also: I find that I’m switching over to the Food Network with increasing frequency. And just so you know? The new installment of “The Next Food Network Star”?

I’m all over it.

And the good news is that there’s actually even more sunshine on the other side of my TV cloud.

For example.

Not A Problem: The Wii. I know it’s not technically a TV program, but it does require a television in order to work, so I’ll take the TV victories where I can find them.

Reason: Wii, you complete me. Or I guess I should say: Wii, you complete mii. And I love you.

Or, you know, yuu.

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Comments

  1. Hil-a-rious…saying it quietly, so as NOT TO SHOUT or anything :)

    The awesome table comment is so so funny…also whispering…I wish they would stick their heads in it. May they never get out …hee hee

    Don’t give up, BooMama, there’s good TV out there somewhere to be had…fortunately the fact that people stop watching them tends to end their success. But when it doesn’t, WHO are these people? I just want to know that.

    Humming, silently :0 ) smiling hugely!

  2. ::::DUCKS:::: I’m glad she went. I have been waiting for the showdown between Jordin and Blake. While I think Melinda had a great singing voice, I don’t think she appealed to the majority of what would be her listeners. It’s like Taylor Hicks. Good singer yet forgettable. I just think that Jordin and Blake are great singers and great performers and it’s gonna be one heck of a show next week!

    Go Blakey-poo!

  3. I also hate Melinda went! I think she is the most polished and best singer and that Jordin has the most raw talent and will be amazing in the years to come. Wanted Blake to go. Oh well! I had the same thought that people thought others would vote for her. I’ll still buy her records though. Getting in the top 3 is pretty awesome. I too hope she knows she was loved (and is loved).

  4. I thank you for the warning.

    And by the way? Since you are responsible for my being hooked on 24, I’ll have you know that it is my mission in life to get you hooked on Lost. It WILL happen. Just give in now.

  5. June 3rd – it’s on my calendar for the premier of The Next Food Network Star – I ABSOLUTELY CAN’T WAIT! :-)

    Now…GOOOOOOOO JORDIN!!! YOU’RE THE BEST!! ;-)

  6. I’m telling you. Get Gilmore Girls on DVD and start at season 1. You will love me more then, than you already do. Promise.

    And as someone who gushed over 24 to you last season, please forgive me my transgrssions. This season? Totally …. for-get-table. Blech. Pooey.

  7. I’m sorry Melinda went, too, because once again the best “lost” to someone more marketable (see also Season two and Ruben Studdard over Clay Aiken (puh-leeze!) and Season three and Fantasia over…well, just about anyone else, but in particular Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson). Unfortunately, American Idol has never been about picking the best singer/performer. It’s a popularity contest, and who are the popular kids? The “cool” kids, the ones who have a hook. Sadly, talent out the wazoo and humility isn’t considered cool these days. (Again, see season two and Clay Aiken.)

    Be happy for Melinda — she will do much better without being saddled with the albatross of the title of AI winner hanging around her neck. She’ll have more control over the music she makes (not a lot, but more), and I have a feeling she’ll out-shine either Jordin or Blake. (See season two and Cla…well, you get the idea. ;) )

  8. I was totally torn trying to make a decision on who should leave AI. They all have their great points and I think each would deserve the win if they got it. I do agree that perhaps it is better for her to have gone out now rather than take the win. She’ll be able to have a lot more say over what she records than if she won.

    Cannot wait to see what next week brings!

  9. I miss Melinda already. Enough said. boo hoo.

  10. I am sad that we won’t see Melinda next week, but agree that she’ll make it big – as in the newly decorated Elliot Yamin. I guess you have to be 15 and have fast text messaging fingers to get your votes in. I think Simon may have jinxed her with his unbelievable praise of her. Oh, well. She’ll be fine. I loved that they went to her church as one of her spots to visit.

  11. Oh, I know what you mean. The minute Melinda was sent home, I was healed of my AI addiction. Which is a good thing. I was more into it than my kids! So, I’ll try and get a life now. : )

  12. I was shocked that Melinda went home, too! I thought for sure Blake was out of there. Can’t wait to see who really wins!!

    Not into 24 this time. Actually I could only do it the first 3 seasons : )

    Haven’t seen the HGTV thing so I can’t really give an opion on that.

    Never tried the Wii before so can’t tell you my thoughts on it either :-)

    How are dinners going this week??

  13. NO! Say it isn’t so! Don’t give up on 24! The season finale is Monday!!!

    You know you’ll watch it…you know you want to…it’s addictive! Plus, there is NO ONE cooler than Jack Bauer… MacGuyver’s got nothing on Jack!

    I tune in alot to the Food Network too. LOVE Paula Deen and her boys!

  14. Totally why I said I wasn’t watching again after Chris was axed last season. But, if Melinda had to go, at least these two finalists are better than last season’s final two. With all the mediocre talent that have ended up with albums of their own, Melinda will get her a deal, no question. She rocks.

  15. I miss afternoon HGTV…they changed their lineup and it makes me sad.

    My husband got me hooked on Smallville…it’s a boy show but the “boy” is a cutie to watch : )

    Have you watched TLC on Monday nights? It’s all about HUGE families. John and Kate plus 8 (sextuplets and twins) and this week it’s those Duggars again (17 kids- love them). I get so stressed out watching the shows that when I’m done I could just eat up my family- they seem so easy!

  16. Did you see the thing on the CBS early show today about the Wii and marketing towards alpha moms? I totally thought of you :) xoxo melzie

  17. And plus Boo, I think Melinda is better off in the long run. I dont think her and the producers would have agreed on how best to market her humble Christ-ness. JMO ;) xoxo melzie

  18. I think my biggest problem with HGTV is the formula shows (which they all are): People want to buy houses for little more than my last haircut cost, OR, they’ve accumulated more stuff than I’ve owned my entire life all together, they’ve stuffed it all in two rooms of their house and they need a team to come in and not only sell all the stuff, but to DECORATE those rooms with the MONEY THEY MAKE (this also happens on Style Network), or, someone decorates a WHOLE ROOM for JUST $1,000. I probably did not spend $1,000 decorating my whole place. That’s not to say that it would pass muster at HGTV, but I’m saying: Blank canvases and acrylic paint. Even if you’re not Picasso.

  19. Too funny. Hubby and I gave up on “24” this season as well because it just didn’t live up to past seasons (in our humble opinion, anyway). I definitely concur with your thoughts on Wii; we are all over our Wii these days!

  20. I was so sad to see Melinda go. She was by far the best singer, but I’m hoping she will still get a contract & do what her heart desires. I know just what you mean about HGTV too…it’s gone down, down, down over the last few years & it’s hard to watch anymore.

    Take care!
    Rhoda
    Southern Hospitality

  21. Isn’t it sad to say you gave up on 24? I’m too in love with Jack to actually give up on it. But they are pushing it…

  22. I completely understand about the AI thing. I am still not speaking about Melinda getting voted off. She was the best. It was just wrong. And you know what? I could not even get through to vote for her! It kept ringing busy for her! I am very sad. As for Food Network? Love it! It is one of the few channels you can have on and not have to worry about what your kids might see/hear. I have never watched 24. Hubby & I are addicted to Lost :).

  23. suzanne says:

    Maybe just as well, I agree. I don’t think the voters (ages) really appreciated Melinda like us adults did. Surely Jordin will be the winner, but nothing surprised me these days on AI……I get lots of head exercise done when I watch this season….shaking my head in unbelief!!! =)
    And I don’t have cable, so I don’t know about HGTV….I wouldn’t get ANYTHING done if I could watch that 24/7.
    And speaking of 24….it’s just too intense and/or unbelievable for me….doesn’t do it for me. Sorry.

  24. I’m very discontented as well! And totally agree with what Becky said, now that Melinda is gone I hope I’m healed of my AI addiction! I’m done with it for this year for sure, will NOT watch next week. Their voting system is flawed somehow and it’s not right that the public is picking and it’s being driven by that votefortheworst.com.
    I am still addicted to Lost & 24 but at least they have plots! You should get boxed sets of Lost to watch & catch up.

  25. Now, girlfriend. Did you not notice how excited Melinda was for her sweet little sister Jordin? Let’s follow her model and cheer Jordin on to victory next week. God has a better plan for Melinda! I will be so disappointed if I come here next Tuesday night and do not find a recap. (This from the pathetic first commenter on the last AI post!)

  26. suzanne says:

    Ok, weird….I posted a reply and it went off into internetspace somewhere….nothing too profound, just agreeing that Melinda shouldn’t have gone home. But consider who actually votes I guess. She will still be huge.
    I have gotten lots of head exercise this season watching AI…shaking my head in unbelief…… tsk.

  27. Uh huh, HGTV is getting to cutesy-pootsey for me. They must be trying to appeal to the 20 something group & not those of us who are forty-something. And….since you brought this up, what’s up with all the organizing shows. I think people are getting paid to trash their house just so they can go on HGTV.

  28. Bailey's Leaf says:

    I’m mad at the TV this week, as well. Gilmore Girls is no more. Now, I’m not a show on DVD girl like yourself, but I do own all seasons of the Gilmore Girls (except for the recent one, of course.) I actually cried during the last show. Real tears and everything. My husband asked what I will do with my Tuesday nights. Walking, I suppose.

  29. The only show I’m still addicted to is Myth Busters, but that’s cause I’m a math/science/technology geek. I gave up on 24 around episode 5 of this season. We were on the road that night and don’t have Tivo. In order to find out what I missed I read the episode recap on televisionwithoutpity.com. They pointed out so many inconsistencies, like being able to drive across LA during morning rush hour in 10 minutes. When I watched episode 6 I started noticing more things that could never happen in reality. I found myself enjoying reading the reacaps more than watching the actual show!

  30. Amen.

  31. from one mama to another trust things are getting better…Pam & Jim are going out on a date… its gotta count for something. And I noticed that the US HGTV is rather uninviting – you need some Canadian content – they have different shows here. Or the BBC – do you have that? ORRRRR for my all time favourite secrest obesession – Little People Big World on TLC… my husband laughs at me but the whole family watches these guys Monday nights.

    Melinda is better off on her own contract wise but I sure wish I could have heard them announce her name as the winner next week not to mention singing in the Kodak Theatre.

  32. Lea Margaret says:

    What is HGTV trying to have the Rachel Rea of home decorating?

  33. Well, as Gulley told me first thing this morning, Melinda Doolittle getting voted off is just a sign of all that is wrong with America right now.

    Beat boxing has been around for years. It is tired.

    24 is painful for me to watch. How can you be in a coma and then 4 minutes later hold a press conference?

    I say good riddance to this television season.

  34. Shelley says:

    Food Network is the best ever! I really need to get on a Food Network kick again though, maybe it’ll motivate me to cook. I met Giada(I say it as if we’re best friends, but really I just don’t know how to spell her last name!) at a book signing a couple of weeks ago and I’m dying to try some recipes from her new book. Watching her show would motivate me. Plus, my 5 year-old loves her. Lately, I’ve been on a Discovery Health Channel kick…I’m into these shows about families with multiples. I hope God’s not trying to hint at anything by giving me the desire to watch these shows!

    What happened to your “Jack Bauer Power Hour”? I am an avid 24 fan and cannot get enough! Our neighbors loaned us the first 4 seasons which we watched last summer. My dad was staying with us for a little while and watched them on his laptop in his room before we did…in 8 days…all 4 seasons! We didn’t see him for those 8 days and I was totally dogging him out. Then, once I was introduced to Jack Bauer I had to eat my words and decided that if I did not have 2 children and a husband and a house to take care of, I could have done it in 7 days. Prison Break is almost as good. We were intrigued this last summer when they were filming several episodes right near our house (we live in Dallas), so we decided to try it out this season. Love it!

  35. Kirsten says:

    I dont have to scroll way down to see your blog…however, the writting is so teeny tiny that I need a magnifying glass to read it…is it like that for anyone else?

  36. I couldn’t believe Melinda got voted off either.

    I am with you on HGTV and find that I am tuning in to Food Network much more lately.

    Oh and I agree with the comment about Little People, Big World…we make sure we watch this each week. Love that family!

  37. Cinde James says:

    I’m not a big TV watcher…don’t even watch AI (yikes, that’s practically UnAmerican) but dearly love Food Network and always catch CSI:New York. Have to say that last night was the first season finale most likely written for a woman! There was closure people…no one was shot in the head leaving the viewers hanging until next fall when we found out if they lived to act another season or their contract expired. The couples were still “coupled at the end” and practically rode off into the sunset. Sigh…

    Anyway, so grateful that there is such a thing as Food Network because if there is absolutely nothing on the other 94 channels, us girls can always learn us a new recipe!

  38. Don’t get me started on 24. I’ve loved it so hard, so well, for so long, only to drag my feet every Monday night this season when Chris wants to watch it. I can’t stand the VP, am STILL wondering what happened with the president’s sister’s boyfriend, and question the need to off Milo. It’s just not that great writing this year, darn it!

    Call me unfaithful, but I’m thankful the season finale is coming up. Jack needs some time to go on vacation, so he can come up with a real plot for next year.

  39. Thanks for the link to the Red Bird story, awesome! I still can’t read your blog well, but it is better. I’m not complaining though, I think its probably a browser issue.
    And thanks for the Coke tip!

  40. I love Melinda. My kids love Jordan and Blake. Maybe thats the problem. Her style only appeals to us old folks, you know, the ones over 35.

    At least thats what the kids tell me.

  41. Umm, how have I not read this fabulous blog before??

    I agree!! AI is dead to me, but that happened a looong time ago. HGTV is getting weird, and I will always *heart* Foodtv.

  42. speaking in all lower case, that.was.so.funny. i nearly spit my coffe all over my keyboard… which would not have been funny. i gave up on tv (with the exception of a few shows) a while ago. i still can get into some nick jr with my kids – and i am forced to watch spongebob with my husband! and the foodnetwork. i credit paula dean with derailing every diet i have tried since her show came on (ps, her bts cake really is!!)

  43. Have you seen “The Ace of Cakes” on the Food Network? Shut up, it’s AWESOME! (Just kidding. About the ‘shut up’ and the shouting. The show really is awesome.)

  44. We just, finally, got Dish with a DVR. I feel like I’m entering a new world where…gasp…I can watch what I want, when I want!

    However, I thought I’d really like HGTV, but kept switching it off. It was stressing me out. Now I know why. I have 4 children. That’s 4x the loud! Don’t need any extra help in the loud department.

  45. Okay, the post that is on bloglines is not here on your blog… weird. And I don’t know how to take a screen shot, but I use Internet Explorer (does that make me a total loser?) and I’m still seeing a huge blank space at the top of your webpage.

  46. speaking of being mad at the television – you’ll never guess what MY cable company did last week!?!? They just decided that for those of us who subscribe to the most basic channels – and find lots-o-enjoyment in Discovery Health – well, we were just having way too many of us watching that channel…so they pulled it out of my “cheap-o” lineup and have moved it up into the premium channels. Makes me soooo mad! Just when I start to get hooked on a new show called “John and Kate plus 8” (they have sextuplets and twins!) *sigh*

  47. Just so you know, when you went back to this template, all is right in the BooMama Blawg.

  48. Joan Steffend represents everything right about HGTV, in my opinion. She’s funny, real and self-effacing. She has great ideas and — maybe most importantly — SHE DOESN’T SCREAM AT YOU!

    Ever since I heard that “Decorating Cents” has NOT been picked up for another season by the execs at HGTV, I’ve been in mourning. Guess they are going for that super-intelligent reality TV audience. Because, you know, no other network is doing that.

    At least I still have Alton. *sigh*

  49. I felt terrible for Melinda. She looked hurt. But I think it is a blessing for her- she won’t be under such a restrictive contract like the winner or even the top two.

    She seems to have real convictions and some creative freedom would be important for her. I KNOW she will get a record deal. Simon will be sure of it.

    So, go Melinda!!! We love you. Waiting in line at Target for the CD!!

  50. You need to RUN!! YES! I! AM! SHOUTING! AT! YOU! – to get The Office on DVD and consume youself in the world of Dunder Mifflin – Scranton. You will not be disappointed.

    I have never watched 24, but I heard that Ricky Schroeder is no on and I think I will start.

  51. Dear Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer,

    This is BooMama’s real life friend Daphne here. I feel like I know you already, but now that I know you are hooked on Lost (just as I am!), I feel that we must find a way to bond.

    daph-

  52. Aw, BooMama,
    Dontcha know that Melinda will have a much better career without the AI strings on her? She absolutely had the best voice, but probably lacked the ‘pizazz factor’ that many of the younger AI fans are looking for.

    I really think that God has ordered Melinda’s steps, so cheer up! hTake heart…her new CD will probably be out by the time I’m done typing this.

    And I HOPE you won’t miss out on next week’s grand finale. Come on, now, you can do this…

  53. Dear HGTV,

    By the way, most of your must-have kitchen gadgets on your umpteen must-have kitchen gadget shows are lame.

    On the rare occasion I serve starfruit, I’ll just use a knife.

    Sincerely,
    Mrs. Dub

  54. Melinda is going ot SOAR big time. Nothing will hold her back with a voice & talent like she has!
    I’m a little late getting in on the comments (ha!) … but oh well.
    Happy Weekend!
    Sandy
    For Reluctant Entertainers.

  55. We have no television.

    I am glad to know that this simple step in our family’s life hs saved me from so much stress!

  56. I just don’t know if I can take another HGTV star…Who was that last weird guy who is all ColorSplashing and everything? He gets on my last nerve!! And they called him SEXY?! To whom?? Oh, I just do not even want to go there…

  57. Ok, I’m still stuck on the blog-lookin’ issue. You are brown today, not spring edition. Is this right? ‘Cause I liked the spring edition during the, uh, spring/summer time we’re havin’.

    My chin hit the floor when Melinda left. Boo, hoo! But I think it’s for the best; she can make more money doing what she wants to do rather than what the winner of AI is supposed to do…I’ll buy her first cd.

    I got hooked on 24 this year, but gave it up when Jack (is this a spoiler comin’ up? sorry…) went crazy all for a woman. I’m glad it’ll be over Monday.

  58. Note to Trista and Janie: I mean this in the kindest way – Neither Jordin nor Blake have the wherewithal to become a music icon in the industry. Whichever one wins will most likely be a flash in the pan with AI attached to his/her name. Melinda, however, has talent, charisma and a presence that is natural and enjoyable, not to mention a range and versatility that will not limited to one genre of music. So I disagree with you when you say that she is forgetable: She, unlike the two left on stage, should amount to more than either of them could hope to achieve. And I, as one of many with buying power, cannot wait to purchase her albums. I cannot say the same about the the other two.

    Boomama: I agree: AI is dead to me too.

  59. Gosh, I sounded so serious in my last comment. I need to find a new hobby because, seriously, I know there is more to life than who gets kicked off AI!

  60. Yeah, and what about these series killing off cast members. Should they be allowed to do that?

  61. I like your other template better.

    P.S. Go Jordin!!

    (Blake is the least talented of the three, but my husband knew it be those two–Melinda is super talented but, as many have posted, does not appeal to the larger audience, i.e. teenaged text-messaging divas. Sorry MD fans!)

  62. Might I recommend 2 great tv shows that should make your tv experience a little sweeter!

    First, “The Office”. It’s wonderful! I always laugh & get my romantic fix. :)

    And “Dancing w/the Stars” because it’s just plain great! The finals are this week!! Go Joey & Kym!! :)

  63. I was wondering if you were going to comment on the “tragedy” that unfolded on AI on Wednesday night! :-) I was stunned that Melinda left as well. I just knew she was a shoe in and then it was anybody’s guess after that. I want Jordin to win, but really wanted Melinda to be right there beside her. Also, I heard on the radio this morning that Michael W. Smith has on his website for people to vote for Jordin. I haven’t checked that out, but like I said…. that’s what I heard. Are you seriously not going to watch the finale next week? Just wondering.

    Did anyone else like Friday Night Lights? We only watch a couple of shows and that is one of them that we got hooked on. Maybe it’s because we are from Texas and have a teenage son who plays football and are all into that at this time in our life…. I dunno, but am glad to hear it will be back next season.

    I have never seen 24, the Office, Lost, any version of CSI or a lot of these other shows. Most of the time there is either Animal Planet, Nick or Disney on, (for the younger child in our home).

    Have a great day y’all!!

  64. suzanne says:

    http://www.michaelwsmith.com/blog-detail.php?pageid=59261

    Yes, Lisa’s right…I checked it out on Smitty’s website, and Jordin apparently did two Christmas shows with him!! How cool is that? We need Jordin to win if she is really going to use this opportunity to glorify the Lord! But is she doesn’t win by some odder than odd chance, and we know AI is all about WEIRD these days, maybe MWS can give her a great big start!!!! =)

  65. I’ve given up on 24 too.

    And I SO feel you on the HGTV thing. It’s actually getting kind stressful to watch that channel, no?

    And do you not watch Grey’s? I’m sure you would have found a problem there too…

    Have a great weekend.

  66. Joanna says:

    Hey BigMama – I heard 24 just signed on at least two more years. Yeah Daph! I Love LOST too!!! And I’m still in shock from last nights Smallville. Jon and Kate plus 8 does come on TLC I think Tuesday. A lot of Discovery shows are shared with TLC just at odd times. I like watching other families with multiples as I shudder and laugh. Someone please tell me God isn’t taking notes saying you think that’s funny wait until I unload this on you.
    Ace of Cakes is awesome and yes there is always Alton! :)

  67. Now there’s the Boo I’ve grown to know and love. I was reading this to my friend out loud and totally cracking up.

    I agree with the HGTV thing; they are becoming a little insano-brain-o over there.

  68. In little ole south wales I just watched the repeat of AI and OH MY GOSH how can they get rid of Melinda she is SOOO lovely, so yeah I’m with you Boo Mama. I might have only seen 20mins if it ever but it WILL BE MY LAST!
    Thanks for making me smile, oh and lovin the new look!
    Del xxx
    http://www.peteanddel.blogspot.com/

  69. I will miss Melinda terribly!! I don’t know if i will watch the final.

    We are waiting for the 24 finale – very excited but what will we watch this summer. We watched all 5 previous seasons last year.

    One more thing – too bad we don’t live closer – i would challenge you in tennis on the Wii – we are hooked at Dearhouse in only 2 weeks. Do you have Cooking Mama?