As one of the few idols of my earlier years, Mariah Carey holds a special place in my heart. And with the passing of my other early idols - Michael Jackson in 2009, Whitney Houston in 2012 - Mariah Carey is also the last early idol of mine who is still alive. Mariah Carey was also the first recording artist I managed to meet in person, in 1994 - and until 2006, the only one.

Any Mariah Carey photo from non-official sources is worth savoring, as she is very particular about enforcing a no-photos policy at public appearances. Despite my rather numerous experiences enjoying Mariah Carey in person, there are only two photos worth sharing as a result. (The other one dates way back to 1995.)

I am attending the second show of her four-show mini-residency at The Palms Hotel & Casino. This is my fourth time taking in a show of hers. I particularly like to see her in Vegas, as I tend to win big at the gaming tables when her music plays on the PA system. Yes, Mariah Carey is my Vegas lady luck, as I found out the previous time - September 2006 at MGM Grand.

Not exactly one of her better moments, I must admit. The playlist and presentation seemed way too hushed and not well thought over. But at least I was happy to hear a cover of the 1985 Foreigner hit "I Want to Know What Love Is," which turned out to be much better than expected, as well as to burst into tears as Mariah sang "Hero," just like three times prior.

In addition to this show, I experienced Mariah Carey in person on the following dates: 21 November 1994, New York City (meet-and-greet, my first-ever meeting with a music celebrity) 10 October 1995, New York City 21 March 2000, San Jose 30 September 2006, Las Vegas