To my niece Ashley on her not so triumphant first try at the "American Idol" tryouts.  Wanted to say congratulations even if you didn't make it past the second round, you went there without fear and you tried!  More than a lot of people would do, more than I would do.  You now know what its all about, you met some great people, played music with them and now you know what you must do before next years attempt.  Great Job...

At the age of 15 my fearless little niece Ashley decided she wanted to try out for the American Idol show.  Although she didn't make it in she was able to say she had a great time, she played some music and sang with other contestants and she didn't give up.  Now she's on her way back home to get the voice lessons she needs and said she would try again next year.  

As for me, I probably would have turned tail and cried all the way home.  If I would have even gotten up the guts to go in the first place.... So to Ashley and all those that try (whatever it is you want to try) CONGRATS....

G.R. Rogers