Rob and Libby Hobbs' Family Updates...: American Idol

Missy started singing before she knew how to speak. She has always enjoyed music and has taught herself how to play both the piano and guitar by listening to notes. Missy started to try-out for talent shows and church productions at the age of five. Her elementary teacher nominated her for the Children's Coral and everyone who hears her sing tells her she has talent. Unfortunately, soccer has competed for her attention. Singing was placed on the back burner for many years. Missy still sings, but it is done casually. Recently, my mom informed me of a conversation that she had with Missy. She told me that Missy thinks I only see her as a soccer player and not as a singer. As a mom, my stomach dropped. I didn't want her thinking that I didn't respect her talent. I told her that I will help her pursue any dream she desires. American Idol was coming to Denver, and Missy told me that she had always wanted to try-out. She just turned 15 and was now able to attend the auditions, so we decided to give it a shot. Our schedule started off with a month of rehearsals, singing to small audiences, and figuring out more about the show (I had never watched an episode before getting her ready for the auditions.)

Day of registration: We arrived at Invesco Field at 3:00 in the morning to get a chance to register. Registration started at 7:00 and due to our early arrival, Missy made it through!

Day of auditions: We arrived at Invesco at 4:00 and started production at 7:00 am. Missy was enthralled with the talent and personalities that surrounded her. Many who saw her thought she was too young to try-out, many gave her kudos for being brave enough to go through the experience, and many enjoyed her voice. Finally 8:30 rolled around and it was time for auditions. She was trying out against Disney experts and 6,000 other hopefuls. Missy was placed in groups of four. Each member was asked to step forward and start singing. Missy didn't make it to the final 10, but the judges spoke directly to her (doesn't usually happen.) They told her that she had an amazing voice, but that she looked a little young for what they were going for this year. When she walked toward me at the end of her audition, I couldn't be more proud to have a daughter who is confident in herself, who was able to look fear in the face in order to conquer it, and who was able to follow a dream. As she reached me, I hugged her tight and told her how much I admired her. We both shed a few tears, and then came the cameras. Being camera shy, I quickly tried to dodge them, but Missy embraced the moment. She spoke well and informed them that she gave it her all, but it wasn't enough this time around. Missy also told them she would be back. After we got into the car she told me she wasn't sure if this was her dream any longer. She wanted to try-out for some local competitions before tackling American Idol again. Missy was thankful to have experienced this moment, and it was a wonderful experience for the both of us to have in our pocket of mother and daughter moments. Thanks to everyone who supported her. I believe this is why she is who she is today!

Fun photos from the experience: