Well it's nice to know that all is not sunshine in America all the time. Some parts actually get rained on. Coming from a part of the world where we know rain, snow, sleet etc., it was nice to see other people facing a rainy day with a grin on their faces.

Nine thousand contestants came out in the torrential rains with their umbrellas to try out for their pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. And contrary to all the preliminary hype, most of them were nice looking (not at all freakish) and I am sure that, if we had been allowed to hear them, probably could carry a tune. Of course, that isn't what AI survives on. Who would watch ordinary folk with ordinary voices and talents perform on national TV.

The first contestant Brandon Groves woke us up in a hurry. Ouch! Double ouch!

Next we had Jennifer Chapton whose experience involved singing with her Church Choir. Must be a very forgiving congregation! Simon's comment was a keeper! After she refused to stop singing and arguing he quipped as she was going through the door. "Do yourself a lobotomy."

Of course, not every thing that comes out of that man's mouth is gold. When Jennifer asked where she could put her gum, he told her she could stick it on Taylor Hick's face. (picture) Now Simon! Must you infuriate the Soul Patrol already.

Next up was Amy. Sweetie, you really can't sing and hopefully after you watch the show you will realize it. Why don't you join Jennifer's church choir.

Darwin, age 27, originally from Texas. (Everything is bigger in Texas, I heard) Nice personality. Big fan of AI and of the judges. They were very nice to her and had her mom come into the audition. They could be twins. Darwin gave a very nasally version of Pussy Cat Dolls - "Don't You". It was too sad to be funny.

Finally our first good possibility. Tommy Daniels, age 22, from Oregon. Gave up his job as gas attendant. Could be a wise decision. He had a "beautiful tone" and gave Paula "Goose Bumps". My only question: What's with the dog? I thought dogs looked like their owners.

Melissa was next...nice personality but a little fluffy! ( actually, a lot fluffy) Nice girl but couldn't sing.

Talented Blake Lewis (25) was next. Very good at beat boxing. Simon thought he was obnoxious. It's called confidence, Simon, and AI contestants need it.

Next came a lovely family whose father came from India. The brother (Sanjaya) and sister (Shyamali) had a lot of good musical training. They were both a pleasure to listen to and were likeable. I think it will be a matter of taste as to who has the best voice. I'd like them both to succeed.

Of course, following a couple of talented contestants AI had to throw in Nick (27) who considers himself a leader. Now Simon, this is more like obnoxious....someone who thinks they are a lot better than they actually are. He sang Simon's favorite song "Unchained Melody" (it mightn't be anymore) Paula and Randy let it go on and on, enjoying Simon's pain. When he could take it no longer Simon exclaimed "What the bloody hell was that? It was almost non-human!" Goodbye Nick...but I have a feeling you will be back.

Finally a real possibility. Rudy Cardinas (nice name) originally from Venezuela, now from L.A. In a band. Did a beautiful rendition of "Open Arms". Rememr Taylor? Paula and Randy said yes. Simon said no. America says??? We shall see.

Well, after all of Simon's nasty comments its time to see what the contestants had to say about Simon. "Simon's Had A Bad Day."(too kind) "Simon is too old to keep up with the times."(loved it!)

After the commercial we get to meet Taylor's missing brother. Just kidding! Eric Chapman. Simon's eyes nearly popped out of his head. In the montage leading up to "Drift Away" we discover that Eric is a famous hairdresser in Seattle. He is actually brilliant ....at hairdressing. Keep at it...but don't try to fix Simon's hair. That's a no, no.

I never really thought of Ryan as short before. But standing next to Anna 6 foot 7 in heels, even Taylor would look short. Very pretty girl. Potential model? Formerly in the airforce but had a weak heart (I hear giraffes have the same problem) She belts out Aretha's "Respect". Lots of volume but interesting. Randy and Paula play with Simon's nerves by making low guttural sounds. Simon decides to let them decide. They say yes. After Anna leaves he says "You realize you just put through a giraffe?" To which Paula replies "Can't wait to see her in the group performance." Good one Paula.

Next we meet Jordan Sparks a sixteen year old natural with a beautiful smile ...Simon....She loves Paula ...says she was her inspiration. Paula is having a great day. Good for you Paula. I am sure we will be seeing lots of Jordan.

AI kept the best for last... the Red Head, pony tail guy, Steven, age 27, with the high, very disturbing voice murdering "Bohemian Rhapsody". Now I want to leave Seattle, too.

That's a Rap folks.