uhmmmm....I think..I'm going to visit this thread again..but for now, I'm going to try thinking of the best words to express what it really means for me to be a Word Nerd...

^^

...i'll be back....


SOON!!!

I will post mine as soon as I got inspired.

What It Means To Be A "Word Nerd"
For me, being a Word Nerd means not even being able to find the words to define the term. It's being part of a whole network of people who love and support David Cook unconditionally. It doesn't matter how many shows one goes to, how many cellcerts one has tuned to, or how many times one has listened to Analog Heart. The true Word Nerd is loyal to David; good mood or 'off' night, girlfriend or no girlfriend, magic rainbows or dull clouds, we are right by his side. For us, it's David or bust.

Word Nerds not only support David, but each other as well. We do not get jealous of each other; in fact, we root for each other. Whether it is because one of us finally met David or was present for the greatest Mavid dance to date, or if something good or bad happens to one of us in our personal lives. The Word Nerd knows s/he has a support system, no matter what happens. While many of us have never met face to face, we know that we can rely on each other and trust one another. And we know that all it took was one man's heart, mind and talent to unknowingly bring all of us together.

How I Came To Be A "Word Nerd"
Before January 2008, I hated American Idol and everything it stood for. I had never watched the show before, due to what used to be an aversion to pop culture. The contestants were almost as pathetic as the audience who eagerly tuned in every week, and for the love of God, why did it seem to be on every night? I don't know what exactly happened next, but I've decided to blame the writer's strike for inspiring me to start watching the show this year. Now that '24' was cancelled for the year, I needed something to watch in the evenings to de-stress.

Well I missed most of the auditions (I do remember seeing Archuleta's audition and thinking, Okay if he doesn't win, he's going to come damn close.) and all of Hollywood. I barely remember Top 24 Week, but I finally settled down in time for Top 20 - Songs of the '70s. And my very first memory of that week was watching the intro video of a young man who claimed to be a 'Word Nerd.' Those two words were all it took to suck me in right away. In that 60 seconds, I learned that we had at least one thing in common: a penchant for crossword puzzles. Now that he had my full attention, I watched him perform "All Right Now." After that and his mini-banter with Simon post-performance, I knew that this was the guy I wanted to win American Idol.

And I was completely hooked. Week after week I watched just to see David Cook, knowing he was going to put on an awesome two-minute show. And he did just that. And every single week I liked him more and more, and I was in a trance with every performance. I was at a Mets game during Mariah Carey night, but thanks to the wonders of YouTube, I was able to catch up before results night. And to this day, I still wish I had been able to watch it live on my television screen. Always Be My Baby... made me cry. David Cook finally made me cry. Now I knew that not only did I want him to win American Idol, but there was no other option. He HAD to win. Nothing else would make sense.

Through the American Idol boards, I was able to connect with a plethora of huge fans like myself. Every week was a party for us, right up until the finale, when my prediction became a reality. By then, I was not too worried about the results. I still had a soft spot for Archie because I had seen him from the very beginning, but in my mind, David Cook was the only result that made sense. I was up half the night on the boards chatting excitedly with my friends the Word Nerds, and I was already thinking ahead to my concert on August 4th.

That night already feels like a long time ago. Now I am at the Word Nerds Home, and I feel attached to these girls of whom I had never known just months before. In addition to going about the usual business of my life, it is nice to know that I can log on somewhere and be accepted by people from all over just because I love David. These are people who, even if I never meet them in my life, I will always be connected to them through one phrase: Word Nerd.

(I DID promise a dissertation, did I not?)

What does it mean to be a Word Nerd?

Word Nerds are more than just fans of David Cook. To be one is to love David and his music, unconditionally, forever and always. Word Nerds had their lives changed by this talented, genuine, humble, caring, amazing man. He inspires us, and he brings out the best in all of us.

Word Nerds are young and old, and come from all over the world. They come from all walks of life. They are caring people who have bonded through their love of David and his music. That was what brought us together originally, but it has become so much more.

We have become friends who support each other – not only in our OCDCD (Obsessive Compulsive David Cook Disorder) – but in life. We share our joys and sorrows. We laugh together, cry together, pick each other up when we are down, play off each others’ sense of humor. It doesn’t matter how different our individual lives may be, here we are one group of friends. Some of us will be privileged enough to meet in real life, some of us we will never know except through words on a computer screen, but ALL of us share a magic bond.

How did you become one?

Music had been a very important part of my life when I was younger, but I had drifted away from it. I was busy being a stay at home mom to 3 active young boys, then going back to school and earning my degree, going to work full time, studying for and passing my CPA exam. Somehow I drifted away from listening to music much.

Then one night this past spring, I was channel surfing on my TV (thank you to the writer’s strike!) and I happened on American Idol. I had previously watched a few of the audition shows, but I had never watched any of the actual seasons. So there was this guy, singing "Hello," and I stopped dead in my tracks. I was mesmerized. Something inside of me broke through, and I remembered all the joy music had given me in years past. From that moment on, every Tuesday and Wednesday became Tuesdave and Wednesdave in my house. I got an ipod, which I listen to constantly now. I searched out David’s pre-AI music, I discovered Andy and To Have Heroes, as well as many other artists. Music was back in my life, and I couldn’t be happier.

Every week my respect and admiration for David grew. Not just for his music and talent, but for his personality and charisma. When he took the stage, he opened his heart and soul and poured them into his performances, a little more each week. When he sang “The World I Know” it was something I had never seen before. I could feel myself standing on that stage next to him, feeling all the emotions he was feeling… I have never been so emotionally connected to a performer before. There was no doubt in my mind how the next night would turn out, and of course he won. I cannot describe how I felt at the moment when Ryan said, “The winner is David…” and my dvr stopped recording and froze my screen. But a panicked moment later I had hit the live button and all was right with my world.

I lurked on the AI boards, but never posted. Then the Word Nerd Home was born, and I decided to join in the fun and post. A decision I have never regretted. Because this truly is a “home” and we will be here supporting David and each other for years to come.

What It means.
A word nerd is not just a fan. They are a devoted supporter to David Cook. They try not to pay attention to all the fame, rumors, and tabloids, but to his great personality and insane musical ability. They will support him through everything; success or faliure. They are always behind him. They also care deeply for fellow word nerds. They are concerned about eachothers feelings and well-being. So even though on the outside, word nerds seem like a bunch of ordinary fans, on the inside they are so much more.

How I became a Word Nerd.
I was sitting in front of the television watching American Idol season 7 when this weird guy with a fohawk and an argyle sweater vest came to audition. I thought to myself "Either this guy is going to be really good, or really terrible." So I kept watching suspiciously. The moment the guy sang "Tommy used to work on the docks" my mouth dropped and my eyes widened. For the next two minutes, i was focused solely on the television screen. When the rocker left, I though "Crap! Whats his name?!" So I got up and yelled to my mother who was sitting only a few feet away from me "WHAT'S THAT GUY'S NAME?!" She just looked at me like I belonged in a straight jacket and said quietly "David....Cook." I was changed forever.

Throughout the season, I tuned into Fox every tuesday and wednesday just to see this guy who I had not known the name of a few weeks earlier. Even though everybody was talking about this Archuleta guy, my mind was fully devoted to that Cook guy. Week after week I was amazed. I began to see that he was not only an amazing singer, but he also had a heart of gold.

That day, it came. The finale. I was sitting in front of the television watching the idols perform corny group numbers, and shaking for the full two hours. Waiting. Watching. Then the time was 5 minutes until the end of the show. Ryan Seacrest, the rocker, and the prodigy. They stood side-by-side. Ryan said those words... "The winner of American Idol is, David....." my heart was pounding so fast, those were the longest seconds of my life. Right as he was about to finish, my brother changed the channel. I sprung to my feet, pointed at the television, and screamed "COOK! COME BACK!" So my brother changed it back and I saw a celebration so I didnt know who had won for about 10 seconds. But then I saw that rocker with the fohawk and argyle sweater vest standing next to Seacrest, crying. I realized David Cook had just won American Idol. I was silent and still, in awe. It didnt hit me until I was laying in my bed an hour later. I jumped up and yelled at the top of my lungs "DAVID COOK IS THE AMERICAN IDOL!"

The days following the finale I thought "I need to be able to talk to someone about my David love." I had heard about the word nerds so I went searching the internet and ended up here, The Home of the Word Nerds. The next few weeks were amazing. I talked to so many kind people and learned so much more about David. This new knowledge made me fall even harder for that rocker from Tulsa. My life has been changed, by a man I don't even know, David Cook. And I love it.

I'm saving my spot...

I need to collect my thoughts before I post them...

I'm such a word nerd -- I need to write them down before I type them out so I don't leave anything out...

I'll be back...

^I'm doing the same...

Be back really quick!

To me, being a Word Nerd is sooooo much more than just being a huge fan of David Cook. It's also being a part of the most amazing group of people. Ever. It's about me laughing hysterically in the middle of the night at jokes that no one understands...unless, of course, they're a Word Nerd! It's about it being "normal" for me to be able to relate even the most random things to David Cook It's about his fans all over the world going THUD everytime we get to see the gorgeous new pictures. It's me, and tons of others, getting hooked since the very first note he sang in his audition. It's being inspired and sharing the emotions from every single one of his performances; the laughter, the tears, the joy...we felt it all. It's about remembering the incredible journey David had on American Idol, the amazing things yet to come, and getting to be a part of it. But most importantly, being a Word Nerd is about supporting David in everything he does, appreciating all of his hard work, and the music he is able to put out that words can't even describe.


I was a hugeeeee fan since the very beginning and I voted tons of times every week. I loved to talk to anyone that would listen about the amazing-ness of David Cook. That's when I discovered the forums where people could come and talk about the person we all loved and supported. I started reading the forums everyday, but I didn't sign up and officially become a Word Nerd until about a month before the finale. I really wish I had done it sooner because the Word Nerds are hilarious, witty, and soooooo incredibly kind. I immediately felt welcome and I felt like I fit right in. I am sooooo thankful and ecstatic that I became a Word Nerd. My life hasn't been the same since...and I'm all right with that!

What does it mean to be a Word Nerd?

I guess the easiest answer would be someone who wanted and still wants David to thrive and stay at the top from the time he was on A.I to the present day. I know it doesn’t cover it, but I don’t think there is just one answer to this question. I’m not really philosophical and I could be here for weeks on end trying to think of a better answer.



How did I become one?

Believe it or not, I became a Word Nerd the moment he sang “Happy Together”. Most people in my life have said they became a fan from songs he sang later on his A.I journey, but this one really stuck with me. To be very honest, I had never heard the song before in my life and I just instantly caught onto it. I just couldn’t believe how well the song fitted him, how his voice was and knew A.I was in for some ride right then and there! It’s still the one David Cook A.I song I’ve listened to the most.
How did I know I was a Word Nerd? By how nervous I was and still am to this day, since January. I’ve been a fan of many contestants over 5 seasons that I’ve watched- Ryan Starr, Gina Glocksen, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacy, plenty of others that I can’t remember at the moment. And to be truthful, I always thought I jinxed them by being a fan. I remember after being so impressed with “Happy Together”, that I was worried about being a fan. I wanted and still want David to go very far and be extremely successful because he deserves it and I felt I would jinx it. Crazy I know, but after 5 years of watching Idol and finding all these contestants fall off the wagon, I didn’t find it coincidence. So I started voting this year and the ride it took me through was rough. I remember not being able to sleep the weekend before Top 3 week, and all the weekends after that. I can’t remember how many times I voted the night before the Finale, but I definitely remember not sleeping a wink. I remember trying not to think about the Finale the entire day that May 21st, for fear that I’d jinx it. I remember at points crying, in fear for the worse. There are so many other examples that I could write, but you get the point. I knew by how much I wanted him to win and how much I want him to be successful, that I am a Word Nerd and here to stay. And I hope with everything that he’s here to stay too.

~ CookieTime, WN #1644

Being a word nerd means finding a family. It means knowing there's a place you can go where you ALWAYS have something in common with others. It means loving music again - and having faith in those who make the music. It means finding what has been lacking in music for years and feeling like a child again. It means good, unselfish actions instead of being reckless and selfish. It means my friends. It means my life.

I have also procrastinated writing this up because the experience I've had in the last few months has been so overwhelming at times, that it's hard to know where to begin.

But the beginning is a good place to start. First....my love for music, especially rock and roll goes way back to my childhood...with an older sister who had pre-teen crushes on the Beatles, then the Monkees...and who introduced me to the Who, the James Gang, Blue Oyster Cult.......and basically set me on the road to loving many types of music, but always, always, rock n roll.

So when American Idol started, I watched the show a few times but I just wasn't impressed. I didn't think the quality of the finalists was to the level of what I would consider "an idol". Most of them didn't sing in the genre that I enjoy. I never watched it when Kelly Clarkson won, but I did like her music when I heard her on the radio...so I think that was when I started to pay a little more attention to who came out of the show in the end...but still...never, ever was a regular watcher.

I had friends who wouldn't even talk to me on the phone when AI was on. I thought they were nuts. The glimpses I contined to catch from time to time did nothing to change my mind.

Then Season 7 started. Of course, it coincided with the writer's strike and the fact that nothing much good was on TV. One night I called a friend, who of course said, I can't talk to you, I'm watching American Idol. Sigh. What is WRONG with these people??? She said, you have to see this young kid on there that can sing..he's amazing. Turn it on and call me back.

So I did. Watched DA sing, and thought, yeah, he's got a beautiful voice. Nice. Decided to see what everyone else sounded like. Noticed MJ and thought he was hot. Now...I can't QUITE remember which song I first heard you sing David. That's because I've watched so many of the videos from the shows I missed they all run together for me now for when was that first time....but I am pretty sure I saw Happy Together, and thought woah...this guy has a voice on him. And then it was the Beatles and Eleanor Rigby......and i think that's when I sat up and took real notice. Damn, he's a rocker!! On AI no less!! What in the world?? And he's good!!! I was sure they'd vote you off because of the usual pop fare the show seemed to gravitate towards.......but I had to keep watching. And then you did Little Sparrow. And I was blown away. I knew for the first time that you were an incredible artist, with a true musical talent, and that there was WAY more to you than the few minutes we were seeing you on this TV show every week.

And I think that was around the time I went online and started searching for more......because I wanted to know where you came from, what you had done, and how this amazing young man had shown up on a show that I had always poked fun at. (maybe you had too).

So my search brought me to the AI forums, where I found you already had an avid fanbase, called Wordnerds.....and they were giving out numbers to everyone who wanted to be part of the David Cook explosion. Well........sign me up! Thus I became WN #1072......and that was just the beginning. When I found out where the Wordnerd term came from due to your interest in language and crossword puzzles (and Simons' diss)....I knew there was WAY more to you than met the eye and it only seemed to get better.

I met people online who I had much more in common with than just our admiration for you...people with similar interests, similar ages, love of music, love of literature and words, you name it. My favorite thread on the forums was "the Proverbial Box and why David Cook will win"......started by an incredibly insightful and intelligent woman, who recognized early on that the risks you were taking on the show with your arrangements and song choices were going to take you all the way. The discussions that developed out of this simple concept were simply amazing, mind-stretching, and if anyone had ever told me I would find intellectual discussions on an AI forum I would have falling over laughing. (We now have a forum that grew out of that thread.....The Proverbial Box forums, where we talk a lot about you but also about a lot of other cool stuff. (just in case you're interested).

Discovering Analog Heart and your previous music sealed the deal for me. I was lucky enough to download it legally from Amazon before it was pulled. I started sharing it with everyone I knew....I was so blown away by your writing and the interpretation in that record. For a first solo effort not on a record label.....well...it deserved (and still deserves) every bit of praise it gets. Watching it go to number one on Amazon downloads was one of the most thrilling things I've ever seen happen with a new artist. I even added the info to the Wiki page on AH because I thought it was so important. I knew then, that you were going to be an amazing artist for our time, and have as big a career as some of the people I've followed for years in music.

I was hooked then on following your every move on the show, and finally broke down and voted...because I knew...you deserved the title more than anyone else I had ever seen.

And as everyone else has said, learning more about you and who you are as a person.....has just increased my admiration. You have a truly amazing heart and soul, David Cook. And yes, all that inner beauty comes shining through your outer also beautiful shell.....and we love that!, but I know....that it is your heart and soul that gives you the incredible light that to some is physical attraction...(welll, to me too, at times!)...but mainly...I know it is a reflection of the perfect soul that you truly have.

We all have that perfect soul....it's just that some know how to let it shine through more easily than others. And you are able to shine through with your music. (and yes, this hearkens back to your peformance of Creep, which I just fell in love with because of the way you interpreted the vocals and music in that song!)

And amazingly you are also this grounded, regular, incredibly intelligent, funny, (hilarious), goofy, fun-loving guy! A man who is smart, funny, caring, gifted, and a bit rough around the edges....geez....is it any wonder so many women think you're the perfect man? Now I know you're not perfect. ;-) But you sure have a lot rolled into one package. But you know of course.....to whom much is given......much is required.

So...I only went to one concert. (so funny saying that). Hey I had never been to an AI concert before!! Probably never will again. Never voted for anyone either! But going to that San Jose concert was just critical for me...I knew I had to see you perform live, and couldn't wait until you're out on your own tour. Because of that decision, I got involved with preparing your group gift from the Bay Area Word Nerds, and have met some incredible people along the way. So one of your blessings is that you have connected people with new friends, all across the country. Through all of the forums, but especially this one, which grew out of the original Wordnerds on AI....it has become a special place for all of us.

Sadly the closed gates, and the crazy crowds at the barriers that night prevented me from having the minute or two I would have liked to tell you "thank you" and give you the hug I still hope to give you one day....because I just want to be able to somehow convey to you what your music and this journey so far has meant to me. You were unable to take any pictures with fans that day or night...and that kinda broke my heart. Cause that was the only concert I planned to attend...or really could attend, reasonably. So I have to believe that it will happen sometime in the future. I still absolutely loved seeing you live in concert and it cemented the deal for me, that I would never miss you performing live in the future, ever.

Because I'm here for the long haul. No matter what. Even IF for some reason you ever put out an album I don't like (could happen 20 years from now... artists sometimes venture off road later in their careers to try new things, and that's okay!)....I am always and forever behind you, supporting you, and believing in you. Cause you're the real thing, DC. You have true talent, true love of music, and most importantly, a true appreciation of your life, your gift, and the people who love you. That is very evident in how you treat your friends, your family, and your fans.

and you wonder why so much love is coming back your way?

what goes around comes around.

I could write more but please know that your music has affected me more than any other artist I've ever listened to....I don't know why......but it does. So keep writing, keep singing, and keep in touch with us. Cause we have your back.



love, Mary

Well, to be honest with you, David, you were not one of my favorites at the start. It was not because I didn't think you were any good as a performer - I remember being pleased that we had a male rocker in the mix. So when did I get with the "DC Program"? I think it must have been when you did "Billie Jean" as I remarked to my 85 year old father that the song was the one that Jackson did and he was floored because you had changed it up and you sang fabulously. Also, when you got the haircut and started wearing some cool threads...your image changed as you grew as an artist. Now you had my attention - since I am one of your older fans, I wasn't into the ragged t-shirt and jeans look from your early time. What also struck me as wonderful was your sincere feelings for your Word Nerd fans. Your love for your family was also very evident and as a mom...you just melted my heart. LOL I am in my 50's and you are the age of my middle son...while I can acknowledge that you are one "Hawt" man, I can't get past the "old enough to be your mother" thing like most of your mature fans have. these gals are nuts for you!

Well, my middle son went with me to the Rochester, NY concert. He was surprised how much he enjoyed the show AND how you performed. I so enjoyed the show and was sad that I didn't get there soon enough like the others to see you prior to the concert. The girls are still talking about it at the Rochester Show Yahoo Group!

I look forward to seeing you in concert when you start doing your own tour as well as watching you become even better than you are now. Your first real CD will be purchased as soon as it becomes available. That is for sure. I already have all of your iTunes music and videos. And speaking of that...as a lover of the "Phantom of the Opera", you blew me away when you sang "Music of the Night" on the American Idol show. You are a rocker that could do whatever he could with all of the music genres that the show threw at you. Impressive talent.

My Word Nerd number is #555, so you can tell that I was not very far behind the gals who were loyal to you from the start. I am glad I took the advice of B2BHeroLover to go into your folder at American Idol. My Word Nerd name is "Scoutin".

Wishing you all the best as a rising star in the music world. I'll be watching you along with the rest of your Word Nerds! Stay true to yourself!!! - Millie

Yeah, this is going to be long.
What It Means To Be a Word Nerd

Being a Word Nerd isn't just about being a fan of a man who called himself a word nerd. It's not just a catchy name used to separate ourselves from other groups. It's so much more than that. Being a David Cook fan means being a part of an incredible experience. You can experience David Cook and not be a Word Nerd. I see Word Nerds as being a group that takes everything just a few steps further. We don't just passively watch him sing. We get so caught up in the performance from the very first note that we can't help but feel whatever emotion he's trying to convey through the song. David Cook does what all great artists do and that's use his art to reach people. At the end of the day, music needs to be about making the listener feel something. It almost doesn't matter what you feel, as long as it made you feel something.

But being a Word Nerd isn't just about the music. A true Word Nerd is just as affected, if not more, by the man himself. David pours so much of himself into everything he does. He opens up his heart and soul for us to see and it's beautiful. He has the ability to move people to tears through his so obvious love for his family, friends fans and for a beautiful little girl named Lindsey Rose. He was a strong competitor, but he never lost sight of what truly mattered. You respect him because he shows so much respect and you can't help but love him because he shows so much love and kindness to those around him. On the flip side of that, he can also move a person to tears by making them laugh so hard they end up crying. A true Word Nerd cannot help but experience the entire roller coaster of emotions he takes us on, from one end of the emotional spectrum to another.

Being a Word Nerd also means something else. When David Cook performed the song "Innocent" during Idol Gives Back week and had the words "give back" written on his hand that he held up to the camera as the song ended. This is a man who doesn't just talk about giving back, he actually does it. And being a true Word Nerd means we can't just read the words on his hand and not respond in some way. This is truly the most giving group of fans I've ever been a part of in my life - being a Word Nerd means being a giver. I think it's safe to say that Word Nerds come from all over including from different sides of the political fence; different religions, backgrounds and cultures; different lifestyles and families; even different tastes in music. We cover a huge range of ages and experiences. We have both introverted and extroverted Word Nerds and everything else in between. But as different as we all are, we all have the same exact love for David Cook. A love that even carries over to fellow fans. We laugh together, we weep together...we experience David Cook together in a way that is so much more intense and sometimes much sillier than a casual fan. And that is what being a Word Nerd means to me.

When Did You Become a Word Nerd
I'll be honest here. I remember seeing David's audition and when he said what song he was doing I cringed because so many people butcher that song. I actually dreaded hearing it and was so pleasantly surprised when I actually did hear it. I was blown away by "Hello" but for some reason, I still wasn't completely hooked though I don't know why that is. The show progressed and I started finding myself liking him a little more each week. But still not entirely hooked yet. Things started changing during Dolly Parton week when he performed one of my absolute favorite Dolly Parton songs, "Little Sparrow". I had been hoping that one of the girls would do it, but was surprised that he chose it. I remember hearing him sing it and freaking out. To this day, I believe that that song was one of his best performances and by far the most underrated. I absolutely loved it and from that point on he went from being one of the guys I liked to being one of my favorites.

Every week I loved him just a little bit more. Andrew Lloyd Webber week came around and we found out he was doing "Music of the Night". After getting over my initial shock and great amusement at him calling the amazing Andrew Lloyd Webber "the dude", I was really worried that he was going to change the song up like he'd done so many times before. Some songs just shouldn't be messed with in my book, and that's one. I have one word for that performance: wow. He didn't just sing it, he knocked it out of the park completely. It was at that point that I started hoping and praying that it would come down to him and David Archuleta in the finale. But I still wasn't a Word Nerd. That didn't happen until the hometown visits when he made a point to not only visit the music teacher who had had such an impact on him but also to bring her flowers. If every moment in this journey was taking me one step closer to becoming a Word Nerd, than that was the final step. From that point on, there's been no turning back. It may have taken me a lot longer than most to get on board, but now that I am I can say that I am so proud to be a David Cook Word Nerd. This is only the beginning of the journey and I can't wait to see what happens next.

What it means to be a word nerd-
It is an honor to be a part of a group that not only adores David and everything he stands for but also to have friends who understand you and you understand them. We are a very special group who love and support David no matter what and I wouldn't have it any other way. I want to say Thank You
David Cook and to all the word nerds for giving me this opportunity to be a part of this it means so much to me.

How I became a Word Nerd-
I was never a big fan of AI, I watched season 6 and then decided it was ok.
When season 7 started I thought I'll watch the auditions this year and maybe get into it more so that's what I did. I became one after David auditioed
with Livin On A Prayer. I heard something in his music that I never heard before and after when they asked him why do you think your the next American Idol he said because, I bring something different to the table.
I knew he was the one and fell in love with not only his music but his attitude, personality, and everything about him. I was so hooked I was glued to the TV
every week no matter what was going on the world stopped and I watched David and It's been a beautiful experience that is continuing and I love it.

What does it mean to be a "Word Nerd?"

For me, that's a loaded question. Before American Idol even began, it was my friends' nickname for me. I love words, grammar, vocab...you name it, I dig it. Being an English major and loving to write, I never felt that their nickname for me was ever incorrect. And now, I have never been more proud to share that name with thousands of fans across the globe. For me, there is nothing better than being a Word Nerd for David Cook. There are people who love him for his music, for his heart-stopping smile, that contagious laugh...I love him for his big heart that has already given me so much more to live for than I had before.

How did I become a "Word Nerd?"

While David absolutely had me at "Hello," I first noticed him during Hollywood Week, when he sang Bryan Adam's "Everything I Do (I Do It For You)." I remember Simon telling him that without his guitar, he would look very vulnerable on that stage. I couldn't disagree more. Seeing him make the Top 24 was awesome, and I kept my eye on him every week, voting loyally. But it was "Hello" that knocked me off my feet and cemented my "Word Nerd" status.

Watching David every week was so amazing. I was always excited to see what he would sing next. His rendition of "Always Be My Baby" had me crying at the end with him. Watching how humble and real he is has never ceased to amaze me. "All I Really Need is You" and "The World I Know" blew me away (I think I have a weakness for David and his acoustic guitar). All I could do was stare in awe at the TV and wonder if I could ever return to a pre-DC existence. I voted every week for the two hours, leaving my fingers and my phone bill a little sore.

I just fell in love with everything that David is and represents. His amazing voice is only a touch of the amazing person inside. He makes me want to be a better person. He taught me to never lose sight of my dreams, because if you want it enough and work hard enough, they just might come true. I am eternally grateful for the happiness and laughter he has brought into my life. He is, and always will be, one of my favorite people in the world.

It's not just about the music. Music can be pretty empty if it doesn't make you feel something. The difference between being a "Word Nerd" as opposed to just a "fan" is that David makes me feel everything. I've never felt so defined by two words in my life. These Word Nerds, who are more like family, are gathered together from all over the world for one common reason: pride in and love and respect for David Cook. It's been amazing to see what one man has done to bring so many people together. It's truly a tribute to David's present and future greatness.

David, for me, being a "Word Nerd" is just the beginning. I can't wait for what is to come, and I wish you every happiness in the world. I can't express in words everything that you have meant to me since this journey began. I hope we "Word Nerds" can give you everything that you have given us. Thank you for doing what you love and for being someone I can believe in....thank you for being you.

Love always,
Andrea, WN #3333

What Does It Mean To Be A Wordnerd?

To me, being a wordnerd means being part of an awesome group of people that supports an amazing musician and individual in Mr. David Cook, the best contestant to ever grace the Idol stages, in my humble opinion.

How Did I Become One?

I was impressed by David in his very first audition, and thought he stood out among the competition. He became my favorite after "Hello" and amazed the heck out of me with the incredible rendition of "Billie Jean". However, I did not actually get my official Wordnerd number until after "Always Be My Baby". An amazing and original performance coupled with genuine emotion and a display of vulnerability made for an incredibly memorable Top 7 night. Then I kicked myself for not having officially joined the Wordnerds sooner. Bottom line, I have never been so invested in an Idol contestant before as I had been with David. I'd watched Idol all seven seasons, and yet had never called in and voted religiously every week for any other contestant except David. I've never been so impressed by an Idol contestant, and I doubt I ever will be again. So I would like to take this moment to once again thank Andrew for bringing David to the auditions, because without him we wouldn't have become acquainted with the amazing Mr. Cook!

From,
Jessica (Sweet 'N Mellow Wordnerd #1074)

What does it mean to be a Word Nerd?

I have always been a lover of words. I learned to read early on and have never stopped. Reading and writing have always been my strengths, throughout my schooling and beyond. I have an English degree and a journalism minor, and I went on to get my secondary teaching credential in English. I am a bit of a grammar nerd as well and can spot typos a mile away. The thing that irks me the most is the improper use of the apostrophe. (As in 1980's... no, there should be NO APOSTROPHE!) I have been a member of my current book club for more than six years, and I love getting together with other women and discussing what we have read. It's no surprise also that I married someone with a journalism degree, someone who appreciates the way I do the value of the written word.

Of course in its meaning here, a Word Nerd is a David Cook advocate. I think for us, "fan" is not a strong enough word anymore. We are not "fanatics" (most of us, at least!). We are people who have grown truly appreciative of David -- his talent, his heart, his kindness, goodness, goofiness, nerdiness, and Everyman-ness. I advocate David, I support him, and I will continue to do so because I wholeheartedly believe in him.

How did I become a Word Nerd?

Truthfully, I resisted the whole idea of formally becoming a Word Nerd for a long time. I lurked on the AI boards, and posted now and then, but I would never cross the line into THAT. That was crossing the line, going too far, diving off the deep end. But when our lovely home was created here by several Word Nerds who wanted to make a safe, loving, fun, and hilarious place for us all to convene without fear of banishment or censorship, and most importantly, a place free of negativity and criticism, I could resist no longer. So here I came, and I obtained my official number of 2919, entirely too high, but it is my own damn fault. And, now, here I stay, despite the curious looks and insecruity I get from my husband. For, I am a Word Nerd, I have always been a Word Nerd, and I always will be a Word Nerd. As long as there are interesting words to read, and a David Cook in this world, I will be here.

What it means to be a word nerd-- To think about David Cook in any given moment of your life, and to try new things and dare to do things differently all from his inspiration.

I because a word nerd around top 8 week, the week after Ramiele was eliminated. I wanted to support someone else until they got elimated, and I watched David's performance of 'Innocent'. Watched, you see, not listened, because I was mesmerized by his adorable face. I had'nt seen someone so fuzzy and adorable on the show until that moment, and I voted for him. not wanting the furry-faced cutie to go. I then voted until he won. (except for the finale, I missed it) I listened to him each week, slowly getting introduced to the rock music I disliked so much. And when he won, I was happy.

And I still look at pictures of him, and am still listening to his music (with shock from my friends). I'm still a word nerd, still happy to be one.

I have already posted here about how and why I came to be a Word Nerd, I just feel the need to come back and say now, (with a few months under my belt and the tour almost over), what it means now, to me, to be a Word Nerd:

It means to be wholly and completely devoted to David Cook, as a musician, a singer, a songwriter and an incredibly awesome human being. It means respecting him, supporting him, promoting him, worrying about him and of course loving him.

It means being a part of the most incredible group of people I can imagine. Didn't expect to feel this way about a bunch of people, most of whom I've never met (except some really awesome Texas Word Nerds I met on a ridiculously hot day in August!!!)

It means knowing there are TONS of other people out there just like me, who are in this with David for the duration, as long and as far as his career takes him, and beyond.

It means I'm home.

I have been thinking about this for awhile, I still don't know exactly how to put his into words so I'm sure it will be edited many times before I'm happy with it, so here goes-the 1st draft LOL

What does it mean to be a word nerd??
To me, the title Word Nerd is representative of this group of amazing people I have come to know and love. It is about the support of our favorite self professed word nerd David Cook. It shows that it is ok to be a "nerd". Just as David was a leader throughout AI as well as now on the tour, the word nerds seem to be the leaders of everything behind the scenes. We are the "cool kids" Everyone wants to be like us. We feel it is up to us to set the example-the word nerd concert pact was priceless!! The way we rock the votes-we made David the American Idol by 12 million votes, we helped David win the TCA award, we were a big part in the rally to get the Mavid dance back. We have given the BEST gifts, and have kicked tail in raising $$ for ACS. Give us a challenge and we will meet and exceed it.
Above and beyond all of this is the support for David. It is funny how easy it was to get behind David during AI when we have never even met the guy or seen him in person. There was just that connection that we all seemed to have, not only with David but with each other as well. The word nerds are so much more than a fan club, we are family. We look out for each other, we laugh together and cry together (sometimes at the same time!). It is amazing reading through some of the posts how many of us are thinking the same thing, or can finish each others sentences, even though we have never met beyond our computer screens. A true extended family-a bit disfunctional and naughty at times, but that is what keeps us going. To me there is nothing better than being a Word Nerd.

How did I become a word nerd??
Well I was a little late on this ship. I have watched AI since season 4. It was at best an entertaining show. Having kind of a dark humorous side to me, I loved the auditions-they are what got me hooked. Laughing until I cried at the insanity of some of these people. Then there was the other side, the true talent. Sure I have picked my favorites every year and voted for them, but nothing like this year. This year someone made me really sit up and pay attention. Someone made me vote religiously every week. Someone brought this silly cheesy show to a whole new level. That someone was David Cook. I noticed David in the auditions. I was talking to one of my friends who was also watching when David came on the screen. My 1st thought was WTF??? The sweater and pink hair??? You have got to be kidding me, right-this guys's toast. Then he sang his version of Livin on a Prayer. I was impressed to say the least. I remember him in Hollywood, top 24-the guy could sing for sure. I started to really take notice of David at the Hello performance. WOW I am still blown away months later by that performance. From there it was all over, I voted and voted and voted for David Cook. I have never been invested enough in AI to check out the website. I had my favorite this year but to me it was still a TV show. I knew about the tour and had been to one of the AI tour shows for season 5, so I knew that I would want to go this year, but had yet to go to the AI site. I remember week 3 and David's homecoming, he really hit me with who HE was that week. I was on a few Yahoo groups, so I decided to see if I could find a group for David Cook. I did and joined it. I basically just lurked on yahoo, posted a couple times but no big deal. I kept up with that during the finale, found dial idol, and kept up with the updates. Shortly after the finale someone posted a link for Word Nerd #'s I thought that was cool, so I followed the link to the AI boards, got my number and now I am here. I wish I would have found you guys sooner to join in everything you did during the season, but glad that I am here now. This has been the best summer thanks to David and the Word Nerds. I am proud to be part of such an awesome group of people!

Hi fellow WordNerds! I've been traveling for almost a month and I´m back home now. I had the fortune to go to the US, attend the Charlotte concert and meet some of you along the road. This has been an amazing ride and a one-time life experience, I cannot even start telling you! Not to mention that being able to meet the man himself, just for a second, meant the world to me

This is the first thread I visit after my trip. I periodically come here to read what y'all have written ´cause it gives me great pleasure and pride to be a part of this amazing group of people. The feelings you pour here from your hearts just makes a breath of fresh air run through my soul. Let's make the sentiment, tenacity, love and admiration that brought us together behind David unite us and last forever.

With love,
Made

Beautifully said Made! Good to have you back again, but also glad you had such an awesome trip!

What It Means To Be A Word Nerd
I think that there are probably a million different variations of this answer and they all stand true. I think that anyone can be a fan of David, but a true Word Nerd cares beyond just the love of watching him perform on American Idol. We support him in all that he does and have invested time into learning about him beyond his wonderful music. We love him unconditionally and truly care about and are fascinated by him as a person.

How I Became A Word Nerd
American Idol has always been my guilty little pleasure. I've watched since season one, but never did I come so emotionally connected with a contestant. I have always loved watching the audition tapes and I remember thinking that no one particularly blew me away during this season's auditions. Of course, most of auditions are quite humorous and filled with people lacking talent. Then, I remember watching one night when David Cook came on. I will admit, that I was drawn to his looks at first glance. But, then he opened up his mouth to sing and I was in love. I'll never forget how amazing I thought he was and I hadn't even heard him sing an entire song. From then on, I was hooked. I watched every single episode with anticipation of hearing what he would do next. I planned my schedule around the show to make sure that I would be home to watch American Idol David Cook. I voted every possible hour that phone lines were open (and often on multiple phones). I also joined the AI boards to take part in his forum. Now the season is over and here I still am. David has made a lasting impression on me and I am proud to say that I am WN# 738 and always will be...