There is something about anniversaries and important dates. We all have them, God knows I have many. However, there is something really special about March 19th, 2007.
It's my favorite memory.
Dads and daughters have a bond that can't be broken and that's extremely true for my dad and I. We have always had an unbelievable bond. I am his only daughter and to say that I can easily get my way is an understatement. He always does whatever I ask of him and because of him, I'm able to celebrate March 19th, 2007 as a very special memory.
Growing up, I was a huge fan of American Idol. I was the kind of fan that taped every episode, watched it over and over again, threw premiere and finale parties, and bought every piece of memorabilia. I owned t-shirts and jackets and backpacks, school supplies, books, and blankets. The entire show meant everything to me.
Do you remember when you were a kid and all you wanted was to meet that one famous person? That was me with Paula Abdul. Getting the opportunity to meet her was all I ever talked about to anyone who would listen. I was 15 and a part of every major fan club website that she had. When I logged on one day to find out that she would be in New York City, I begged my parents to take me.
Paula was in New York City promoting her new jewelry line with QVC. She was making an appearance on the David Letterman show. I had to be there one way or another. I begged my dad to take me to see her, and let me tell you, it took a lot of convincing on my part. The man took off from work, drove over an hour to come pick me up at school, only to drive back to Manhattan to stand in the freezing cold on a street corner for what I hoped would be a glimpse of Paula Abdul.
He lectured me the entire way that I couldn't get upset if she didn't stop and take a picture or sign an autograph. She didn't know me from anyone else there. I was just told to be grateful for the opportunity at hand. Little did I know at the time that my life was going to change that very day.
With Paula Abdul, March 2007
Though there was a major crowd there to support her, I had pulled off actually getting a photo with her. She also signed one of her DVDs that I owned. I still have the picture in a frame in my bedroom to this day. The autographed DVD also has a special place.
Ever since that day in 2007, I've had a special place in my heart for Paula. It's something that I can't explain; she truly just is a hell of a human being to be around. She's blessed me with so many opportunities to travel, I've forged awesome friendships, and I've been able to do big things in my career as a writer, with her by my side.
When I started to see Paula more often, I wanted to make sure I kept everything in one location. I made myself a scrapbook that houses pictures, autographs, ticket stubs, wristbands, and small mementos of our times together. The book probably weighs a solid 10 pounds but it's very special to me. Any time I return home from a trip where I've seen her, I update my scrapbook with the newest items.
My Paula scrapbook, June 2020
I'm extremely cognizant of the fact that I am one of the lucky fans who has gotten to know Paula for who she really is. I treasure the fact that she was the person I wanted her to be when I finally met her. She was kind to me, and you know what? She still is to this day. I've seen her countless times and every single time, she's just as gracious and loving as she was the first time we met.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, I haven't been able to see her since her final show in Las Vegas for her residency, but it's okay. We've kept in touch with each other via Twitter and Instagram. Even though I haven't physically seen her, she's always in my mind. I miss her very much but once this pandemic is over, I'll be back with her.
Paula: Thank you for being you. You are an incredible person that I am so blessed to know. I can't believe that I've known you for half of my life. Thank you for always being there to bring a smile to my face and for loving me, even when I'm not so lovable. I hope I've made you proud and we continue to grow our friendship for the years to come. I love you very much.
I'll always be Forever Your Girl.
Signing off,
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