Erika Van Pelt is a local girl.  Local, as in just a few miles down the road.

She’s about the same age as my youngest son, Sarge. They would have been in elementary school, junior high and high school together. They would have ridden the same school bus. (I can’t ask Sarge because he is presently in India doing Army stuff.)

I wonder if she was ever at our house.  Those years are a blur and I’ve never been good at names.

My daughter thinks they were in gymnastics together.  Or was that dance class?

Whatever the connection or non-connection, it’s exciting to have a local gal on American Idol this year.  If she makes it to the final three and American Idol films the hometown visits, I’ll be one of those people lining the road and waving a “Go, Erika!!” sign.