Anyway, the folks from A Socialite's Life snapped this picture of me talking to Paula who I had never met and who is just the tiniest thing. I could just pick her up and put her in my pocket but I don;t think she would've liked that.

We talked about the upcoming season of "American Idol," which has launched the careers of such superstars as Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson and Chris Daughtry. When the new season of the monster hit debuts in January, Paula thinks yet another star will emerge.

"I think we can expect the best season so far; I honestly feel that. I'm not just saying that - I didn't say that last season," she insisted. "But I do believe that we have an amazing season coming up, very interesting contestants coming up, great back stories, really great singers, and adorable! Really, really cute."

She had watched the Country Music Awards the night before and was quite excited to see former "Idol" champ Underwood win big again and is looking forward to having Melinda Doolittle release a CD.

"I'm so excited for her because, you know what? She's one of the most talented singers, and everyone knew that last season. All I want for her is to just go out there and live her dream. As long as she's out there singing, for her she's doing God's work."

And as far as the other winners and finalists from seasons past, Paula feels like a mentor whose young charges have made her so proud.

"It's fantastic to see Elliott Yamin do fantastic, to see Daughtry, to see Kellie Pickler, everyone's doing their thing, Taylor Hicks is touring. It's all part of the process and I love the fact that our show single-handedly really does change these kids' lives and launches solid careers for them."