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Embracing David Archuleta
Posted by Abrra on Wednesday, July 30, 2014
“..this was my first time coming back performing with the title “David Archuleta” and having to embrace that..”
A few months ago a fan who has had a son return from a mission said, “The David who left will not be back.”
This comment has stuck in my brain ever since I had heard it. Back then I really didn’t know what to think. Did it mean that he would be so different that I wouldn’t understand who he had become? There was never a doubt in my mind that David would not continue his singing career. I had a few concerns about his readjustment to living back in the US. After a few weeks, I was excited to see that he was back writing music and hanging out with musicians in the studio. They were happy to be working with him on new material. He was beginning to act like the “old David” that I knew from 2012.
And then he got silent. Not too much coming from him on twitter. No vlog besides the short ones just when he came back home. Fans began to get restless and the rumor mill buzzed with everything from he’s going to college to he is dating like crazy, as he looks for his kind of perfect. Many “sightings” began to pop up on twitter, some with pictures, showing him with friends around Utah. Something that never has happened before was that people tweeted pictures from Sunday services, some posed with a fan after services, some without his knowledge. Fans were desperate for news and ravenously consumed any information that may give a clue to what David was working on. Then we got word that Called To Serve would be live-streamed. Finally, we got to see what David was doing on his mission, first hand. Because he had asked for privacy while he was in Chile, it was a relief to see him talk about his mission publicly. I think it was a relief to him too.
David posted a vlog to fans where he talked about what he was doing. Exasperated by things he had read online about his lack of communication with fans, he said he had been busy working on writing music. I saw an assertive man telling us how he wasn’t going to do things just to please others. He was going to run his career his way. If he had anything to share, he’d be in touch. This was a huge change in how he communicated before he left for Chile. This time there was no doubt. He was not going to be pressured to produce music or anything else, until he was satisfied with the result.
Eventually, more news surfaced showing that David had visited Shay Carl the YouTube celebrity. I’d never heard of him but I did read where he might be of help showing David how to become more social media savvy. It might have paid off some, because we had the Face To Face chats which were live-streamed for all to view on demand. Though LDS youth were the target, I know fans enjoyed watching him speak, even in two languages. These videos show David’s genuine love for his faith and fellow man. He was as real and open as I have ever seen him.
I am beginning to get what “The David who left will not be back” meant.
David has become more open about who he is, a mature man who knows what he wants in his life. Not just a singer, but a humanitarian, who sings. The Military Tribute Tour was a chance for him and the other men who entertained with him, to thank the troops by using his God-given talent. He even said he had to embrace the title “David Archuleta” as he sang for them. So, I have come to the realization that in some way, David had to go on his mission to find himself. To be comfortable with expressing what he needs in his life. He left as a young man who needed to get away from all the celebrity and what that meant in his life. He came back a mature man who knows what he wants and is willing to embrace the celebrity on his own terms. Mission accomplished!
The Voice David Archuleta 
poof said
Thanks Abrra. Couldn’t agree more. He had been looking for ‘himself’ for a long time. He looks very comfortable with where he is at in that search these days.
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archugeezer said
I agree, Abrra. Thanks for your perspective. I think you have sifted through David’s ongoing post-mission transition perfectly.
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Harold Weinstein said
Well written, and great wisdom thanks for expressing the new david who I think has found his real voice. Well done!
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Abrra said
Poof, Seeing him on stage singing in photo’s and videos from his recent tour and the David Cook concert was all I needed to realize that David is on his way back to us as a performer.
Archugeezer, I like how you used “on-going” to describe David’s transition back to career. He will always be a missionary in his heart and take with him wherever he goes the desire to reach out. He learned that sometimes a song is more powerful than just words. Sweet anticipation for his new music!
Harold, Watching the progression since he has returned, it’s evident that David is finally doing things his way. He has always taken the time to share his faith along with his music, now he is simply more open about it. We are getting the real deal like never before.
It’s so nice to see all your faces!
Abrra
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betsy said
Abs, yesterday as I was driving on my roadtrip, I listened to the AI cd that you burned for me a long time ago.
I just realized how many times the judges said he was singing beyond his years, he was seasoned, etc.
I’m glad he’s caught up with his voice. 🙂
Great job parsing this stuff out.
Thanks, sis.
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NCGirl_Marylee said
Beautifully written, Abrra. I always appreciate reading the thoughts of others since David’s return home. There was so much anticipation about what to expect after his two years away, serving others selflessly. I still cannot wrap my mind around what it must have been like for David to transition back to his life as he knew it. None of us will ever know. As for me, I continue to pray for him and wish him every happiness that life can bring ~ he has earned it …this, I am sure of.
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Spirit said
Abrra….What a wonderful post! You captured the transformation to the new David perfectly. I’m enjoying getting to know this confident young man and looking forward to the adventures he has in store for us! Still hanging on for the ride! 😊
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Suzy-Q said
Abrra, Through your talent for expressing your views through words, you have solidified what has been going through my mind. Thank you!
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Abrra said
Betsy, I too, enjoy all those mp3’s regularly on my phone (no CD in car). It was my intention to leave in some of the judges comments as a fond memory of a most exciting era in David’s career.. You are correct. I can’t wait to hear him sing his new songs with his more mature voice. Bring Him Home was only a small taste.
MaryLee, David seems to be taking advantage of opportunities to sing in public(Military Tour) as well as the small groups at church. He was generous and brave to sing on stage with Cook last weekend. I hope he keeps it up so that when the time comes for his tour he will feel very comfortable performing for us crazy fans. 🙂
Spirit, Hanging on is right! David is home just a few months and look what he had done. Who would have thought he’d be on an international tour in a war zone?
Suzy-Q, I must admit that this “The David who left will not be back.” has rolled around in my head for a few months. I guess I needed to witness the David who came back for awhile so that I could understand the change.
I appreciate all the comments.
Abrra
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Abrra said
I am bringing over bluesky’s comment from the end of the last thread. Another wise observation from bluesky!
bluesky4home said
Wednesday, July 30, 2014 at 7:25 AM e
I am waiting for the day when the black socks and top buttoned shirt join the sparkly suit in our DA Hall of Fame closet. They could share some interesting memories. ^_^
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lynnella said
Great insight Abrra
I’ve thought for a while now, how difficult it is for David to achieve the balance he wants in his career. He doesn’t want it to be all about him, yet it is. It’s his voice, his music, his performance. And, we as fans, hang on his every tweet, blog, vlog, or sighting and other’s selfies. How frustrating it must be for him to try to reconcile the fact that he can’t really have a career without it being all about him. He’s one of the few, if any others, who doesn’t want a career to be all about him. I still don’t see how he’ll be able to achieve that, because with a career in music the fame comes automatically. As we saw on his military tour, there wasn’t anywhere in the world he went that he wasn’t recognized by someone. It’s a double edged sword. He just has to figure a way to deal with it, because ultimately the fame will bring more opportunities for him to do the good in the world that he wants to do. And, anyone who was paying attention when he was on AI knew from the start that’s what he wanted. I remember thinking when he sang “Another Day in Paradise” that he was trying to bring attention to the fact that even in “paradise” there are poor, hurting people who need our help. It was a very eyeopening moment for me where he was concerned. As I recall, after being criticized by Simon for singing a depressing song, he tried to explain that, but was cut off. You could feel in his voice that he was trying even then to do something he considered more important than just win a singing contest. This is a very special young man.
Lynne
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bebereader said
Abrra,
Astute observation about David. I like the man he is now; a work in progress. This recent growth spurt was a long time coming and it’s nice to see him finally voicing his opinions, not feeling inhibited to speak his mind. After all, that how it’s supposed to be.
I see defiance in him too, similar to the way some teenagers defy their parents. “You don’t like my hair…” He’s no longer a teenager but his life as a celebrity didn’t allow him to have the typical teenage life, hence the late development. IMHO
He’s entitled to wear funky clothes and get short haircuts and I don’t have to like it although I’m entitled to my opinion. He’s not responsible for my happiness; only for his own. I just want to hear his beautiful voice forever.
Lynella,
I loved your comment, especially what you said about American Idol. We all knew early on that it wasn’t just his voice that drew us to him like a magnet. But his voice was so unusual that in a way it distracted from everything else about him. Sometimes in chat we look away from the screen to really hear his voice.
And this: “He just has to figure a way to deal with it, because ultimately the fame will bring more opportunities for him to do the good in the world that he wants to do.”
I hope he realizes this and uses his gift to help people wherever he may roam and not limit himself to his hometown. It can be in a far off place or right in his own backyard. His gift is so unique; he carries it with him wherever he goes and can use it to help all mankind.
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djafan said
Abrra,
Thank you! I sooo agree with all you’ve said. I think about the two years David was gone, but not only gone, he was immersed in service and disconnected from all media and technology. So the four short months he’s been back just hasn’t been that long imo. I’m actually amazed at how fast he’s moving. You can actually see the transition on his instagram pictures. The middle east tour did wonders for him in merging Elder Archuleta and David Archuleta. That’s how I see it 🙂 All of this makes me super excited for the future and what’s to come!!!
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djafan said
Lynnella,
So true about David on AI. I was so intrigued with him beyond his voice, still am lol.
Bebe, I agree with the defiance, it’s actually very attractive to me along with the strength in his convictions and decisions. I may not always agree or even like but there is something to be said when someone that young has that power and owning it in a positive way.
Nc_girl, “There was so much anticipation about what to expect after his two years away, serving others selflessly. I still cannot wrap my mind around what it must have been like for David to transition back to his life as he knew it. None of us will ever know. As for me, I continue to pray for him and wish him every happiness that life can bring ~ he has earned it …this, I am sure of.”
Ditto
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djafan said
“I want to sing music that will make me feel what I love.” David Archuleta
Wow.
All Things Mormon @AllThingsMormon · 59m
“David Archuleta Speaks to Youth in Ethopia” http://ift.tt/1nINtxS #lds #mormon
“It wasn’t hard; all I had to do was say no. It is my life and I know what I believe,” was the response to a question posed to David Archuleta, pop singer of American Idol fame, when asked at a recent fireside if he found conflict between being a musician and a member of the Church.
Currently David is writing music and working with song writers in America. He wants to continue to sing pop music. At the conclusion of the fireside he told the Ethiopian youth, “I want to sing music that will make me feel what I love.”
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djafan said
Beautiful!
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Abrra said
Lynnella, I think David is on his way to a balance of fame and his desire to help others.He inferred that he wasn’t willing to do a career the LA way, “all about him”, but by mixing in some faith based service like he has done recently, he is keeping a balance.
bebebebe 😉 I’m with you. David can do, say, wear, whatever he chooses. There’s much to catch up with in the 2014 culture for a man who has been away from all he knows.
Djafan, I did notice how much more open he is when he does share. He most recent blog was amazing. If I didn’t know who wrote it, I would not guess he was 23. He showed such compassion for the married soldiers who were parents of an 11 month old infant. Expressing his concern for them missing her growth milestones. Very inspiring!
And thanks for the awesome video 🙂
Abrra
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jans11 said
Abrra, a very good synopsis of David’s last two years. To me, he is making a good transition, even though it might be hard to figure out what he’s doing from time to time. Being more sure of himself, he now knows the how, when and why of things. I guess that’s for him to know and for us to find out! 🙂 I’ll just go with the flow……..I’ve never been able to figure out this enigmatic prodigy anyway! There will never be another one like him, that’s why I love him, no matter what he does.
Today, the elders came to visit, and because of David, I totally respect them and what they are doing. They are such nice and caring kids. ♥ We always have nice visits. They always ask what David is doing now, I think to know how it might be after their missions, even though they have said they are loving what they are doing.
Hoping for a Christmas concert! 🙂
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oliveoil said
Abrra, what you wrote about David really touched my heart because of your insight and heartfelt objectivity. To be honest, I was hoping he would come back pretty much the same as before he left, but ready to hit the music scene big time. Now I can see how the past two years have helped him become more self assured and determined to create and perform music that will inspire and uplift those who have an ear to hear. He is not interested in personal fame and glory. He really seems uncomfortable in that role. I remember him talking about helping an elderly neighbor by cutting her grass . She insisted on paying him, which caused him to become quite distressed because he didn’t want to be paid. His joy came from doing a selfless act of kindness. This is who he is. This is why we love him so much. And this is why we need to see David’s success through his eyes.
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Abrra said
Jan, reading your comment reminded me of when David said in his vlog that when he had something to tell us he will. I got a chuckle out of his take no prisoners attitude in that video. We’ll know when he is good and ready to tell us, LOL! I don’t ever count my chickens where David is concerned.
Were these the same Elders or a new pair? I recall you saying that you were going to give them one more haircut before they transferred.
Oliveoil, Your last sentence needs to be written in large neon letters across the sky:
WE NEED TO SEE DAVID’S SUCCESS THROUGH HIS EYES.
Amen.
Abrra
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Angelica said
Abrra,
Thank you for this first quarterly report. Great job! I’m looking forward to what the next couple of quarters bring. I’ll expect your report in my inbox by end of October. Include a Christmas concert if possible so I have time to plan.
It must have been hard to go from, “no no no, I’m not a celebrity!” for two whole years and then all the way back to being “David Archuleta.” You’d have to be a selective kind of egomaniac to make that kind of transition overnight.
Bluesky,
“I am waiting for the day when the black socks and top buttoned shirt join the sparkly suit in our DA Hall of Fame closet.”
I actually grew to love the shiny,sparkly, baggy suit and now am somewhat horrified to find the black socks and shorts growing on me. It’s trendy and he has nice knees and runner’s calves, which I never thought he would show off. I see it as progressive, like his attitude toward owning his bad self. It seems like the pendulum is swinging and it’s becoming hip to be square and ain’t nobody more square than David. lol.
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jans11 said
Yes, Abrra, I remember that! Was so glad that he took up for himself! 🙂
One Elder was new, the other I had met. The very first one, that came originally, about 4 months ago, finally was transferred last week. His companion was the first one transferred and since then there has been 3 different new ones. These 2 should be around for a while. They stay at least 6 weeks. I remember David saying that he had 7 from the US and 6 non US. I told them that the bad thing is, we just get to know each other and then they’re transferred. But it is a real experience that I never thought that I would be having. We were talking about seasons in peoples lives and they said mine right now was cutting Elders hair! 🙂 I really enjoy it. Their next hair appointment is a week from next Monday.. 🙂 The new one has been in 20 months so he goes home in Nov.
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tawna21 said
Abrra, yes… what you wrote! I love what you’ve brought to the surface for us. My head knew that David would come back with a different way of looking at things, but my heart didn’t want it to be that way. I wanted the old David to still be the person who came home. The jumpy/ bouncy/ giggly/ smiley/ dorky/ spiritual/ humble/ grab my soul/ all at the same time, boy growing into a man. Well, that boy is now a man – I love it! I love the maturity that he brought back. His firmness and deliberateness in the way he speaks and says what he has to say. He isn’t afraid of ‘them’ or us. He is who he is and that’s just the way it is. We’ll just have to wait and see, down the road, if he still has the jumpy/ bouncy/ giggly/ smiley/ dorky stuff going on. We know he still has, and has mastered, the smiley/ spiritual/ humble/ grab my soul/ all at the same time characteristics. He knows where his success is. We just need to follow along and we’ll see it happen.
I loved how, at David Cook’s concert, he took command of the stage long enough to let everyone know that this was David Cook’s concert and that DC wasn’t in enemy territory, but on allied ground (he learned some stuff on the military tour 🙂 ) . After that, he was a guest singer at David Cook’s concert and he was happy to be there with, and for, his friend. That’s ‘just David’.
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Abrra said
David was out on the town again last night ! I like seeing that he is immersing in music in so many ways.
via Instagram
davidarchie Saw this tonight. #wicked #goodshow
Angelica, I sure hope I can report on a tour this year! As we saw there is no way to predict where he will go or do next. He is still the ninja!
Tawna, I think that guy you describe is still there. We saw the contrast from dramatic to bouncy performance in the last videos from Chile. I really believe David will bust some moves once he is singing his own music. How can he not be so inspired? Think Zero Gravity. A most memorable song when performed by David. That’s his baby and he is proud!
Off to work I go!
Abrra
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lynnella said
Looks like David might be “Defying Gravity” soon. Would love to hear him sing that. The words of this song are perfect for him.
Lynne
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djafan said
That picture has thousands of hits overnight, still has “it” 🙂
Chile playing David music!
@RVDigitalTV
#Chile #Santiago #Chilenos #SabiasQue David Archuleta – Crush http://redesvision.com/canaldigital/
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djafan said
And that lead picture up top is perfection.
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bebereader said
Yes it is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
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Abrra said
Peace, Love, Music & Lennon
https://twitter.com/jhansgen21/status/494934228270731264
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Abrra said
Ok this is way off topic. But I think you will see why it made me smile. I can see David tweeting the same thing if he had made this discovery.
afinefrenzy
18 minutes ago
I’ve worked in a lot of studios, but this is the first with musical TP. I’m impressed. Now back to work. #backinthesaddleagain #notthatsaddle
Alison Sudol just might be the female counterpart to David’s quirkiness. 😉
Abrra
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jans11 said
That musical tp is so cute! So is Alison! Her and David are so cute together! 🙂
The “wicked” photo with David shows him looking good! His hair ever has a little “fluff” to it! 🙂
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bebereader said
Another fan pic from today:
Meg Nelson @meggysue22 23m
#livetweet David Archuleta is a cutie pic.twitter.com/mRZqmv3ZRL
i z z y. and David Archuleta
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bebereader said
David was at a BBQ tonight:
kenser @jimmer8910 · 4h
went to a barbecue, David Archuleta was here. #dying #marryme #jkimactingcool
kenser @jimmer8910 · 4h
seriously there’s only 23 people here and I’m just like hi david
kenser @jimmer8910 · 3h
he doesn’t drink soda. that’s adorable.
kenser @jimmer8910 · 21m
I texted my dad and told him I was hanging out with David Archuleta and this is what he said #wut #metoodad
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bebereader said
It’s the 6 year Anniversary of the release of “Crush”. Happy Anniversary!
credit tinabeebop
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djafan said
Happy Crush Day!!!!!
I walked into Fresh N Easy yesterday evening and as I walked through the produce area a familiar melody came on and I freaked out hahaha It was CRUSH!!!!!
I’ve noticed a lot of tweets of fans hearing David songs more so lately. Could it be a sign?
Love this.
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djafan said
Love this toooo ♥
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djafan said
#virtue
David Archuleta @DavidArchie
“What you choose to think and do when you are alone and you believe no one is watching is a strong measure of your virtue.” #virtue
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djafan said
sodaliciousutah
Archuleta getting his Horchata on.
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Abrra said
Congrats to David on the anniversary of Crush! I am looking forward to getting up early again to hear his new music if the radio gods deem him worthy. /snark off
I had to look up Horchata, being the Gringo that I am 🙂
Horchata – Drink of the gods.
(lower case gods)
CHUFA Horchata – Horchata de Chufa
You will find Horchatas made from Chufa in most areas of Spain . It remains a very popular and refreshing summer drink. This is the real deal, the authentic and ancient recipe for Horchata from Chufa. Trust me on this one, Horchata made from Chufa nut tastes nothing like Mexican Horchata made from rice. Don’t confuse the two because they are VERY different. And I have to add this little bit of funny: In Spain this drink is accompanied by a ‘farton’, a foot long donut-like pastry to dunk in. Oh yeah, I’ll have a farton.
1 lb. Chufas
1 Cup Sugar (or to taste)
2.3 Quarts of Water
1 Cinnamon Stick
Bathe your naked Chufas very well, rubbing and rinsing them in clean water. If you find them having little hairy fibers, get them off.
When they are completely clean, drown them for 14 hours in cold water. (make good and sure they stay under.)
Rinse the naughty little Chufas in clean water, until it is completely clear, then drain.
Mash the Chufa or put them in a blender – to make them into a soft paste. Add a little water if needed. (Some have told me that it MUST be done with a mortar and pestle. I say Yeah, right.)
Add the 2.5 qt of water to the paste that you have made and put in the cinnamon stick. Stir and let it sit in a cool place (I have heard fridges are cold) for 2 hours.
Add the sugar and stir until completely dissolved.
Strain the mix through a metal mesh filter, and then through a wet, damp cheesy fine-cloth. Repeat until the strained liquid does not have any particles left. Particle man, particle man.
You now have a fine, cloudy-milky liquid that keeps in the fridge for about four days.
Try: Serve the Horchata in slushy form as you would ice-cream. Simply put it in the freezer, scraping the sides off and stirring occasionally or it will freeze ice solid. Those freezing liquid cup thingies work well.
More here:
http://www.popsynth.com/horchata.htm
Abrra
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MT said
Awww … Happy Crush Anniversary, David!!
He was so excited that day. 😀 😀 😀
Those slushy things sound really good! I don’t think I’ll end up making one, but it does make me want to run out for a smoothie!
lol Love the musical TP.
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Angelica said
That tweet from David is from chapter 6 of Preach My Gospel, the missionary handbook he spoke of in his Face to Face chat.
I love that bottom pic #38. The guys are all kind of stiff and frowning and the girls (their dates?) are smiling from each side of David and leaning forward. lol.
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djafan said
I wonder which horchata he was drinking. I’ll have to try the chufas one now.
I think I’ll gift that musical tp to David next time I see him. I’m sure he’ll get a kick out of it.
Angelica, Interestingly enough I’m very familiar with that quote and variations of it. Sometimes using character in place of virtue and I have never read Preach My Gospel. It always amazes me how much more we have in common with other religions, cultures, values, etc… than we do differences.
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djafan said
Shanae Lewis Hill @shanae_hill · 5h
@DavidArchie Sorry for being “those people” & being awkward by the elevators. Thanks for at least saying hi. We ❤ your music. @Kumikorachel
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fenfan said
So I had to google TP to find out what it was! Now I know. Thank you google! LOL
Question: Is TP in the USA bigger than those in other countries. That sheet in #30 looks more like a paper napkin/kitchen towel to me.
“He came back a mature man who knows what he wants and is willing to embrace the celebrity on his own terms.”
Agree. Thanks Abrra for articulating similar thoughts that have been running incoherently through my mind.
Horchata – sounds like a lot of work just to make a drink!
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Bychance said
Abrra, loved every word you wrote! And olive oil, too! Such great thoughts from everyone here. Just wanted to say thanks.
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jans11 said
My, that Chufa Horchata drink is something else! Sounds good and healthy, but I’d never try to make it! 🙂 Good thing the article was here to read because I’ve never heard of Chufa or Horchata and didn’t know what it is! Learn something every day! :))
Love Crush! It always brings back so many memories from 6 yrs ago. The whole album is special being it’s his first one. I listen to it about once a week.
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Abrra said
Fenfan, You are a hoot! When we have our talks in chat I totally forget you live half way around the world from me. But its the small things that can trip us up in life, right? Language is one thing, but a cultural reference like TP shows how different the language nuance can affect meaning of a simple thing. I want to say “no flies on you” when it comes to digging up info that you want to clarify. 😉
Bychance, Thank you! Sometimes I can carry a thought in my head for months until it’s ready to be expressed coherently. David knew he would return a changed person. It was the nature of that change that was going to be the surprise for him and his fans. He seems to more of a humanitarian (if that’s possible) by sharing his gift more openly, be it a fireside or a military base camp.
Abrra
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Abrra said
Let’s get David’s number up on Instagram! Go here and follow him? Click Follow below his picture on the left. http://instagram.com/davidarchie
Abrra
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fenfan said
Haha Abrra Thanks to David I have learnt a lot of things, including how to sing American patriotic songs! I think I am nuts. LOL
Anyway I made an Instagram 5 minutes ago just so I can follow Mr Archuleta. I am happy to report that I am follower number 32,255.
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Abrra said
Fenfan I keep http://instagram.com/ pinned to a tab on my browser at all times. When something new is posted from anyone I follow, there will be a number showing how many updates. Once I look at the updates, the number goes away. Last time I looked, David was following 2 people. I don’t know how to figure out who they are.
Abrra
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bebereader said
Good afternoon!
How many fans will have pizza today after seeing this? 🙂
sethjhill
59 minutes ago
I made David Archuleta a pizza last night so y’all better be jealous!! #davidism @nathanjhale #Imfamousnow #heisshort #nooffensedavid #davidarchuleta
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bebereader said
Pocoelsy’s newest video set to “Hey Brother”!
She did a great job!!
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Abrra said
Bebe #51 he is GLOWING!
sethjhill via Instagram
Abrra
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djafan said
Oh no Michael Johns has died.
Season 7 “American Idol” finalist and former Atlanta denizen Michael Johns died yesterday, multiple sources tell me.
The administrator for his fan website confirmed his death on Twitter as well.
Details have not been revealed as of yet but from what I hear, the family is not in a position yet to provide a statement. The last photo of Johns posted on his Facebook page featured him in Tustin, Calif. with several tennis buddies.
The Australian native was 35 years old. He’s the first “American Idol” contestant to pass away.
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djafan said
http://radiotvtalk.blog.ajc.com/2014/08/02/american-idol-bits-former-atlantan-michael-johns-has-died-why-dexter-roberts-left-tour/
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skydancer1x said
Bebe, she sure did♥
Sorry that I am late to comment Abs, but thanks for a great read! Think you checked all the boxes:D
Now, what’s next!?
Looking forward to the day David sings again for his fans,but so loved the military tour he chose to do for the troops,and we got to know his traveling companions quite well. (always learning something new it seems, from or through David Archuleta.No doubt about it, he has changed in many ways since returning.
Love everyone’s comments..I THINK I am caught up now.lol
love that pic at 51,his top button is unbuttoned, and I like that dark blue shirt.:D
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skydancer1x said
just saw your comment Dja. I can’t believe Michael Johns is gone.That is so sad♥omg
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lynnella said
Saw about Michael Johns dying on mjsbigblog. There was something about a blood clot in his ankle. Didn’t know that could kill you. So sad.
Lynne
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Angelica said
So tragic about the news of Michael John’s sudden death at only 35. He was such a talented guy and seemed like he was a really fun and funny person to be around. I know his family and friends are heart-broken. So unexpected. Life is precious.
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Angelica said
Lynnella, blood clots can start anywhere. Once they enter the blood stream they can travel to the heart, lungs or brain.
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bebereader said
I was hoping the news about Michael Johns wasn’t true! So very sad for his family and friends.I really liked him on AI7. Loved his accent and his sense of humor. If David has checked his Twitter lately, he knows by now.
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lynnella said
One thing I remember about Michael Johns was the Idol tour in Wisc. He and Cook wore cheeseheads for the final number, and as they were walking back the “catwalk”, Cook put his on David. So funny. Michael was a good guy.
Lynne
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Abrra said
Shocking and sad news about the sudden death of Michael Johns.Sending prayers to his family.
I searched for a recent picture of Michael on his Instagram page. This is him with his best pal Puddy. I hope Puddy gets many extra hugs.
Abrra
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Abrra said
All are welcome!
http://www.livestream.com/thevoiceunplugged
Abrra
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MT said
I can’t believe the terrible news about Michael Johns. So sad for his family and friends.
Remember when David sang on stage with him and Benton Paul and Brooke White? He seemed so genuinely happy to have David on stage. There was so selfishness or resentment at all in his expression toward David. He even encouraged him to sing. He seemed like such a nice guy. I know he will be greatly missed.
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Abrra said
Sunday puzzle! He gets by with a little help from friends!
http://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=0df32d3b19c7
Abrra
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jans11 said
Thank you Abrra for the nice puzzle. I’m in total shock over the loss of Michael. I’ve watched that video so many times, it is such a good feeling video. RIP, Michael. You will be missed.
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Abrra said
Jason Hewlett blogs about US Troops Tour Reflections – Integration Back Into Society
It has now been one week since I returned from the most amazing opportunity for service of my career. Reading back through all of my US Troops blog posts I am amazed by a few things:
1. How utterly scared I was upon leaving my family and home
2. How little I know about life or have paid attention to the world, the news, the media
3. How it felt as if the hand of God rested upon me as I wrote, as I believe it was the best writing that’s ever come out of me
Upon my return home we were greeted by a group of family, with signs, flags, posters that said, “I Love You Daddy”. It was a heroes welcome for 4 guys just trying to give what little we can to the true heroes that serve every day. I admit, it was nice to be welcomed home that way, but it also made me realize how few are applauded as such upon returning. Even when they are greeted in such fashion, it isn’t but a few minutes that the newness wears off, you walk to the car, kisses and hugs go from every second, to every minute, to every hour, to once a day in a hurry.
Read more here:
http://jasonhewlett.com/us-troops-tour-reflections-integration-back-into-society/
Jan, You are most welcome. There are fond memories for those on stage that will carry them through this tough time.
Abrra
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Abrra said
David sends his condolences.
David ArchuletaVerified account @DavidArchie
Remembering a friend this weekend, Michael Johns, and keeping his family in my prayers. You’ll be missed, Australian buddy. #RIPMichaelJohns
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djafan said
I was at church when I receieved David’s tweet on my phone. Many were wondering if he knew since he hadn’t said anything. I have a feeling this must have hit him hard.
Kari was asked yesterday.
violet4ever @violet4ever 23h
@kariontour Could you let David know that Michael Johns (Season 7) died?
Kari Sellards @kariontour
@violet4ever he knows. So very sad.
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jans11 said
I’m thinking it did too, Dja. Yesterday I seen where someone said they seen David at the Temple. I was thinking then that maybe he went to have solitude and pray for Michael. This is so sad.
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djafan said
Yes Jan, I hadn’t made that connection but did think it was strange on a Saturday.
The top ten season 7 was the best and closest from everything I read.
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Grammyj said
Picture at the link of David and Brooke. David must be in LA. Nice post by Brooke.
Instagram
realbrookewhite
2 hours ago
Wow, gotta thank you to all of you for your kindness, thoughtfulness and memories. Let’s keep sending up those prayers for Michaels family. Also, after a couple of sad days it sure was awesome to finally see this buddy of mine last night for the first time in over two years. Perfect timing… It was only for a quick minute but it sure made me smile. I nearly crushed him with my hug, I literally squeezed his guts. Love that @davidarchie. Also a passerby said we looked 12 years old, and by the looks of this picture I’d probably have to agree! Ha! #shorties #AI7forever
Admin Edit (added pic) Thank you Grammy J! (Bebe)
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bluesky4home said
Great article, Abrra! I appreciate so much the depth of pondering that goes on on this site. *sigh* Such a fun place to have to come home to.
(been out of town)
I was sorry to hear about MJohns. I can’t imagine how DA must feel. God bless Michaels family and all his friends.
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sweetonda said
So sad about Michael Johns. You can see he was loved by many from all the posts on social media. My prayers are with is wife, family, friends and fans. I hope that the AI alumni are getting together in LA to celebrate his life and share fond memories of this friend. RIP Michael
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Abrra said
And via Instagram
davidarchie Fun getting to see this familiar face over the weekend :). @brookewhite as happy and as full of that light as ever. #reunions #idoldays #BrookeWhiteandherglow
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Abrra said
Bluesky, Thanks for your comment. I do ponder but not sure how deeply 🙂 Sometimes I hear words that need to be peculated fully in my brain.
I have added a link to the left sidebar to purchase “Called To Serve” DVD
from Desert Books http://deseretbook.com/David-Archuleta-Called-Serve/i/5126920
MaryDee posted a sweet collage on twitter.
Also, some pictures from David’s homecoming showed up on a few fan Facebooks. Not sure who took them.
Abrra
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jans11 said
Got my email that my Called to Serve video is on the way. Can’t wait to get it now that I find out there are 3 fabulous songs on it! 🙂
Love those homecoming photos! So handsome in his suit. That guy is something else, doesn’t he ever take a bad photo???? I think not! 🙂
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tawna21 said
I’m so shocked and saddened by Michael John’s death! I can’t imagine how the ‘Season 7 Family’ is feeling. I had never paid any attention to his music after AI, but I got quite lost in the MJ vortex on YouTube this evening. He really did have a mellow, bluesy type style. I enjoyed my time there. I may head to iTunes and see what I can find.
Purchased my Called to Serve dvd at Seagull Book and Tape here in Utah today! They are in this month’s catalog section, which is front and center in the store! 🙂
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MT said
Love the pics of Brooke White and David. She sure looks like she’s a lot of fun. 😀
Abrra,
Thanks for the Sunday puzzle. It was so thoughtful of you to make it one with David, Brooke White and Michael Johns from their performance together.
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Angelica said
This is scary considering how recently David was there.
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MT said
Angelica,
I couldn’t access the article you linked but I heard about it on the news. It really is scary to think of the risks they all took to go over there. It still kinda freaks me out when I think of the video they posted where their helicopter was being shot at! I’m just so very glad that David and the others made it home safely.
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djafan said
Angelica, It truly was a dangerous trip for David and company. So glad they made it back home safely. Feel so bad for the families of the deceased.
MT, Definitely risky.
On a light note, loving David’s use of hastags 🙂
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tawna21 said
Oh. My. Goodness!! I just finished watching the Called to Serve dvd that I purchased yesterday!! What an absolutely amazing man David Archuleta is (preaching to the choir, I know). No really, I saw this when it ran on TV in April, but it is so much more to have control over it (start, pause, back-up and re-watch). And then, WARNING!!!, the special features. Just make sure you have it on full-screen. Those three songs will take your breath away (actually David and his spirit will)! #5stars #2thumbsup #abajillion♥♥♥
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jans11 said
It’s a wicked world out there and I send my condolences to the general’s family. Thank God that He brought back the Fab Four back from harm’s way all safe and sound.
I agree, Tawna, the video is so much better than when I watched it on my computer. The 3 songs are so beautiful, especially the last one, Spirit of God. God is so good to give us someone like David, he is so incredible!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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betsy said
I had an issue, some of you know about it. Let’s just say that when I went to the towing yard after I was released from the hospital, I saved my BEGIN cd, with the help of my stepdaughter. They (and everybody) have been so loving and helpful I can’t stop crying. My glasses were found under the seat but the cd was ON the seat, under my fresh cherries. 😉
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
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bebereader said
Betsy,
Thank G_d you’re okay, my friend!! This isn’t the first time I’ve seen David’s music work wonders. {{{{{{{{{{hugs}}}}}}}}}
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SandgBeaches said
Betsy, for the rest of us, what in the world happened? I can take a pretty good guess. How are you now? Yes there is magic in his music. David sang “Bring Him Home” when my son was in the hospital. I couldn’t listen to it for days.
We have strange encounters with his music sometimes.
SB
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sandybeaches9 said
There let me clean up the mess!
SB
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Angelica said
Betsy, glad you’re safe and home my friend.
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tawna21 said
So glad you’re okay, Betsy. Be still and relax with David’s music…. you’ll be 100% in no time. ♥
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betsy said
SB, I was driving home from my film festival vacation (on the interstate, alone) and woke up in the emergency room with only vague memories of EMS workers asking me who I was and other questions that elude me. I had a grand mal seizure while driving. My car went off the road and missed hitting many things. The workers broke my car window to get me out. This was Sunday at around noon. I came home this evening. I’m glad I can’t remember these things. I’m glad I remembered one phone number. I’m glad my kids rallied together and my stepdaughter raced to the hospital and spent 2 nights with me. (she lives closest, 2 hours away) My husband is unreachable in Northern Canada, on a fishing trip. He knows nothing of this. The kids cleaned the house, went grocery shopping, picked up my RX and drove me home. I couldn’t ask for anything more. I really couldn’t.
I am so lucky.
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jans11 said
Betsy, so glad you’re okay now. David’s cd under the cherries?……reminds me of the saying….whipped cream with a cherry on top! 🙂 Yes, David’s music does work wonders. I seen a good article by someone(?) on David’s music producing the chemical Dopamine. It sparks the goosebumps when hearing great music! It was very interesting.
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skydancer1x said
Oh Betsy, bless your heart!
Thank God you are okay.Rest, and take care {{{{{{hugs}}}}}} to you♥
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gladys1961 said
MIAMI MIAMI,
this place is beautiful, I have my first tour tomorrow.
One question, is there any place in Miami, where I can find articles on david, even the dvd “called to serve” would be easier and cheaper to buy it here. Ask from Argentina is much more expensive.
If anyone can help me with some information about it, thank you very much.
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