This was taken after the show. Kim broke the handle off of her paddle. I think she was spanking somebody with it. Oopsie. I think they turned out pretty good, don't you?(Photo credit - someone else, but it was from DeDe's camera, I think)
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Perfect 10's!
In my recap of my trip and my discussion about the judges paddles, I fully intended upon sharing with you a picture of us holding the paddles, but forgot. So here you go...
This was taken after the show. Kim broke the handle off of her paddle. I think she was spanking somebody with it. Oopsie. I think they turned out pretty good, don't you?
(Photo credit - someone else, but it was from DeDe's camera, I think)
This was taken after the show. Kim broke the handle off of her paddle. I think she was spanking somebody with it. Oopsie. I think they turned out pretty good, don't you?(Photo credit - someone else, but it was from DeDe's camera, I think)
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
More California Pictures
File Under: LA - the pictures
Friday's adventures included a trip to The Grove, an outdoor shopping venue, which is adjacent to the world famous Farmers Market.
The Farmers Market
The Grove
Next, we stalked...I mean visited the 3rd Street Dance Studio, rehearsal space used by "Dancing With The Stars!" We found where they park.
But...nobody was there. Just an empty dance studio.
So we left, and drove around, I snapped pictures of store fronts.
My new favorite name for a bakery - "Kiss My Bundt!"
We went to The Standard for snacks and cold beverages. Gnome came along, too!
Groovy, huh?
Walking back to the car, we found a dog park which was down the hill from us. We watched the dogs running around for a bit. See?
After dog watching, we drove back to Orange County in Friday afternoon rush hour.
Dinner that evening was at The Azteca Mexican Restaurant. It was both delicious and FUN!
Entertained and full, we stopped to buy some booze, then went home to watch the movie "Heathers." Bedtime followed.
The end!
LA Adventure - The Final Day
File Under: Beauty and the Beach
Sunday was my final day in California. Mark, Joel and I went to breakfast at a quaint little restaurant called Millie's, where I pigged out in a huge breakfast. This provided much needed energy for the next part of the day. Mark and I set off on a little road trip to Laguna Beach. This post is more of a photo essay with some commentary along the way.
Houses on mountains!
Gorgeous landscape with mountains as a backdrop.
As we went walking along the beach, we started to appreciate the sights. The ocean, the flowers, and the men at the beach.
The stud below is a papi I photographed for my friend and fellow blog buddy, David.
More scenery...
Sunday was my final day in California. Mark, Joel and I went to breakfast at a quaint little restaurant called Millie's, where I pigged out in a huge breakfast. This provided much needed energy for the next part of the day. Mark and I set off on a little road trip to Laguna Beach. This post is more of a photo essay with some commentary along the way.
Houses on mountains!
Gorgeous landscape with mountains as a backdrop.
As we went walking along the beach, we started to appreciate the sights. The ocean, the flowers, and the men at the beach.
The stud below is a papi I photographed for my friend and fellow blog buddy, David.
More scenery...
During our walk, we happened upon these handsome young surfer boys. I paused, noticing that they were about to change out of their wet clothes. Please enjoy this photo montage...
(paused the picture taking because one of them had turned in my direction and I didn't want to be obvious.)
So after all of the excitement of nearly naked boys under towels, Mark and I enjoyed some delicious gelato from Gelato Paradiso. Then it was back on the road. For the drive back, we took the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1). Stunning!
Back at the house, I discovered that my cell phone was gone! I remembered having it at breakfast, so we called Millie's to see if it was there. It was, someone turned it in. Luckily it was close to the house so I was reunited with my phone in minutes.
A celebratory dinner was in order...at In-n-Out Burger! I love it so much!!
After dinner, we took one last walk through Downtown Disney, ending the weekend much the same way it started. Morbid curiosity dragged us into this store.
Where we saw these...
...and walked right out. SCARY!!
Back at the house, I packed my bag, went to bed and flew home the next morning.
A fantastic weekend. A big thanks to my very kind and generous hosts Mark and Joel.
LA Adventure, Continued
File Under: La-La-Land-a-Go-Go
Saturday morning began with a workout and then breakfast. Mark and I relaxed a while and then hit the road back to Los Angeles to meet up with our friends DeDe and Kim. I've not seen DeDe since January 2007 when we met up in Vegas. I've not seen Kim since August 2001 when a large group of us met up in Vegas. Yes, both were for G0-Go's shows. :) For this trip, both were staying on Sunset, right down the street from The House of Blues.
Kim, Jim, DeDe
Here's a picture of the larger group of us. Mark is in the black t-shirt, he was my host on this trip. Kim's in grey, then our friend Damon is in the center, next is DeDe in pale blue and finally me.
Now for a little secret about my trip. I traveled with props. No, nothing naughty, just something to take to the show. As the regular readers of my blog know, Belinda Carlisle, lead singer of The Go-Go's, recently appeared on "Dancing With the Stars." She never got a score higher than a 6 from any of the judges. I decided that she deserved some 10's, so I made judges paddles and took them with me. I was going to see to it that Belinda got her 10's. More about that later.
At the venue we took our "standing room only" spots in front of the stage, we were all clustered near one another, approimately 4 "rows" back. The wait began at about 7:50 pm.
Around 9:30, the opening act appeared. They were called "The Upper Crust" and were hilarious! Four men, dressed in 18th century period clothing, powdered wigs and white makeup faces. They put on a great show. I spotted Belinda and Go-Go's drummer Gina Schock watching the show from the balcony, both seemed to enjoy it.
Finally at 10:30, The Go-Go's came out and the crowd went wild. They opened with their hit single "Vacation." Belinda began her trademark moves, at which point, DeDe, Kim and I raised our "10" paddles. Belinda looked over and was completely surprised and very happy to see the scores. She smiled wide, bowed a bit and moouthed out "THANK YOU!" However, our work was not complete.
I received kudos from Jane. She spoke and said that while surveying the crowd, she saw so many familiar faces - friends from the UK, from the East coast, and Chicago!! She waved at me when she said Chicago. I love Jane. :)
Back in the early days of the band, they adopted the song "Cool Jerk," the song by The Capitols from the 1960's. They've been performing it for about 30 years. Often, the band would bring somebody on stage to dance for them and be their "Cool Jerk." On Saturday, Belinda introduced the song by saying "I've spent so many years looking for my Cool Jerk and I finally found him, about 3 months ago. Tonight I would like all of you to meet him. Jonathan, come on out, please!" Out walked Jonathan Roberts, Belinda's dance partner from "DWTS." They hugged and he waved and the three "judges" in the audience waived our 10's high. Belinda pointed them out to him and he smiled, pointed at them, indicating his surprise, then waved at us. Then the dance began. He got to see how she does things. And so do you. I filmed it once the song began.
The song ended, Jonathan took a bow and waved to the crowd, and the band played on. The show ended at about midnight and after chatting with some friends in the crowd, the group of us wandered back to DeDe's hotel for drinks and catching up. Finally, Mark and I hit the road at about 1:15 and managed to get back to his house at about 2.
Next up, Sunday! Highlights include a lost phone, a beach, nearly-naked surfer boys, and scary dolls!
Thanks to DeDe for the use of some of her photographs in this post.
Saturday morning began with a workout and then breakfast. Mark and I relaxed a while and then hit the road back to Los Angeles to meet up with our friends DeDe and Kim. I've not seen DeDe since January 2007 when we met up in Vegas. I've not seen Kim since August 2001 when a large group of us met up in Vegas. Yes, both were for G0-Go's shows. :) For this trip, both were staying on Sunset, right down the street from The House of Blues.
Kim, Jim, DeDe
Here's a picture of the larger group of us. Mark is in the black t-shirt, he was my host on this trip. Kim's in grey, then our friend Damon is in the center, next is DeDe in pale blue and finally me.
Now for a little secret about my trip. I traveled with props. No, nothing naughty, just something to take to the show. As the regular readers of my blog know, Belinda Carlisle, lead singer of The Go-Go's, recently appeared on "Dancing With the Stars." She never got a score higher than a 6 from any of the judges. I decided that she deserved some 10's, so I made judges paddles and took them with me. I was going to see to it that Belinda got her 10's. More about that later.
At the venue we took our "standing room only" spots in front of the stage, we were all clustered near one another, approimately 4 "rows" back. The wait began at about 7:50 pm.
Around 9:30, the opening act appeared. They were called "The Upper Crust" and were hilarious! Four men, dressed in 18th century period clothing, powdered wigs and white makeup faces. They put on a great show. I spotted Belinda and Go-Go's drummer Gina Schock watching the show from the balcony, both seemed to enjoy it.
Finally at 10:30, The Go-Go's came out and the crowd went wild. They opened with their hit single "Vacation." Belinda began her trademark moves, at which point, DeDe, Kim and I raised our "10" paddles. Belinda looked over and was completely surprised and very happy to see the scores. She smiled wide, bowed a bit and moouthed out "THANK YOU!" However, our work was not complete.
I received kudos from Jane. She spoke and said that while surveying the crowd, she saw so many familiar faces - friends from the UK, from the East coast, and Chicago!! She waved at me when she said Chicago. I love Jane. :)
Back in the early days of the band, they adopted the song "Cool Jerk," the song by The Capitols from the 1960's. They've been performing it for about 30 years. Often, the band would bring somebody on stage to dance for them and be their "Cool Jerk." On Saturday, Belinda introduced the song by saying "I've spent so many years looking for my Cool Jerk and I finally found him, about 3 months ago. Tonight I would like all of you to meet him. Jonathan, come on out, please!" Out walked Jonathan Roberts, Belinda's dance partner from "DWTS." They hugged and he waved and the three "judges" in the audience waived our 10's high. Belinda pointed them out to him and he smiled, pointed at them, indicating his surprise, then waved at us. Then the dance began. He got to see how she does things. And so do you. I filmed it once the song began.
The song ended, Jonathan took a bow and waved to the crowd, and the band played on. The show ended at about midnight and after chatting with some friends in the crowd, the group of us wandered back to DeDe's hotel for drinks and catching up. Finally, Mark and I hit the road at about 1:15 and managed to get back to his house at about 2.
Next up, Sunday! Highlights include a lost phone, a beach, nearly-naked surfer boys, and scary dolls!
Thanks to DeDe for the use of some of her photographs in this post.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
LA Story
File Under: The Trip
I'm too tired to post this evening. I promise I'll complete my summary, along with pictures for all to see tomorrow.
I'm too tired to post this evening. I promise I'll complete my summary, along with pictures for all to see tomorrow.
DWTS - Results
File Under: TV Obsessions
This was a surprise to me, but tonight's elimination was Chuck Wicks. I thought for sure it would be Ty Murray. Chuck was a good sport and was becoming a great dancer. I'm sorry to see him go. He was yummy to watch.
Dancing With the Stars - Season 8, Week 8
File Under: Television Obsessions
The remaining contestants are doing an individual dance and then are being split into two teams to do competing group dances. "Team Tango" vs. "Team Mambo." The group score given for that dance will be added to their individual score, hence the XX/60 instead of 30. Now…on with the dance.
We find out right away that Melissa will not dance tonight, due to an injury she sustained earlier in the week. Of course they’ll tease us thru most of the dances before they’ll tell us how it will affect the competition.
Gilles and Cheryl – Lindy Hop – His timing is OFF. While he’s trying to do all these tricks and stunts, he’s not quite on, and he wasn’t in step with Cheryl for part of it. It was hectic. The judges seemed to love it. Hmm… 27+28=55/60
Lil’ Kim and Derek – Paso Doble – Nice and sharp. Expressive, sexy. Beautiful! Bruno announced “THE BITCH IS BACK!” Carianne loved it. Lil’ Kim kissed the judges. 28+28=56/60.
Chuck and Julianne – Cha-Cha – Ooh la la…Hips and twists and that sexy look on his face. Nice holds with his arms. He’s keeping step with her, that’s great to see. Really nice!! Bruno liked his “bum action.” Len and Bruno weren’t pleased with his arms. Silly me, what do I know… 26+25 = 51/60
Shawn and Mark – Samba – Her fringe is making it appear that she’s got the hip action but I’m not sure. She’s looked clunky in a couple spots. Nice routine, not much of a WOW but it was cute. Carianne loved it, the other two only liked it. (10 from Carianne) 27+25 = 52/60
Melissa and Tony were to dance a Jive this week. The rehearsals show lots of choreography. At one point she spins and has crippling pain. They go over to Cedars-Sinai which is right across the street, by the way and show a hairline fracture. The rehearsal shows their Jive, danced to “We Got The Beat (a Go-Go’s song!).” It’s graded on the last taped performance which was only done for marking so didn’t have all of the flourish. The judges note this and there’s not much to grade since it lacked bounce and arms. 21+25 = 46/60
Ty and Chelsie – Salsa – He’s been spray-tanned for this. He’s on fire, lots of energy and excitement. I do have to say that it looks like she’s doing a bit more dancing than he is but He was good! Carianne LOVED it, Len was complementary but then said “I think it’s your time to go,” Bruno was kind of in between the two with his commentary. 24+28=52/60
Team dance score gets added to their scores this week. Lacey Schwimmer will fill in for Melissa on Team Mambo.
First up is Team Mambo. Melissa (Lacey) and Tony, Chuck and Julianne, Shawn and Mark. Dancing to “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” Shawn just isn’t doing it for me. She looks stiff. In some regards she’s very precise with her licks and arms but It’s not a sexy Mambo from her. Chuck and Julianne are doing a nice job with it. OH MY GOD. The end was just silly, the guys ripped off their jumpsuits to reveal one piece outfits that mimic Beyonce’s video. Carianne found it odd, Bruno liked the guys (duh!). 25/30
Team Tango is Gilles and Cheryl, Ty and Chelsie, Lil’ Kim and Derek. Opening with Gilles and Ty shirtless, being seduced by Lil’ Kim to the Britney song “Womanizer.” Kim and Derek’s solo is HOT! Looked like a bit of tangled footwork but not bad. Ty looks frightened but very strong, some good moves. Gilles has such a powerful presence, he makes this dance very sexy and intense. The synchronized finish was beautifully done by all! YAY! Carianne and Bruno LOVED it, Len said that Gilles’ footwork was atrocious but Ty nailed it. 28/30.
Looks like it could be Melissa going home, if the results are based purely on judges scores. If the fans work in their favor, they'll be back and it could be Ty going home.
(okay, I faked that last paragraph because I hadn't finished writing my summary last night, yet those were my thoughts earlier today. I already know who went home.)
The remaining contestants are doing an individual dance and then are being split into two teams to do competing group dances. "Team Tango" vs. "Team Mambo." The group score given for that dance will be added to their individual score, hence the XX/60 instead of 30. Now…on with the dance.
We find out right away that Melissa will not dance tonight, due to an injury she sustained earlier in the week. Of course they’ll tease us thru most of the dances before they’ll tell us how it will affect the competition.
Gilles and Cheryl – Lindy Hop – His timing is OFF. While he’s trying to do all these tricks and stunts, he’s not quite on, and he wasn’t in step with Cheryl for part of it. It was hectic. The judges seemed to love it. Hmm… 27+28=55/60
Lil’ Kim and Derek – Paso Doble – Nice and sharp. Expressive, sexy. Beautiful! Bruno announced “THE BITCH IS BACK!” Carianne loved it. Lil’ Kim kissed the judges. 28+28=56/60.
Chuck and Julianne – Cha-Cha – Ooh la la…Hips and twists and that sexy look on his face. Nice holds with his arms. He’s keeping step with her, that’s great to see. Really nice!! Bruno liked his “bum action.” Len and Bruno weren’t pleased with his arms. Silly me, what do I know… 26+25 = 51/60
Shawn and Mark – Samba – Her fringe is making it appear that she’s got the hip action but I’m not sure. She’s looked clunky in a couple spots. Nice routine, not much of a WOW but it was cute. Carianne loved it, the other two only liked it. (10 from Carianne) 27+25 = 52/60
Melissa and Tony were to dance a Jive this week. The rehearsals show lots of choreography. At one point she spins and has crippling pain. They go over to Cedars-Sinai which is right across the street, by the way and show a hairline fracture. The rehearsal shows their Jive, danced to “We Got The Beat (a Go-Go’s song!).” It’s graded on the last taped performance which was only done for marking so didn’t have all of the flourish. The judges note this and there’s not much to grade since it lacked bounce and arms. 21+25 = 46/60
Ty and Chelsie – Salsa – He’s been spray-tanned for this. He’s on fire, lots of energy and excitement. I do have to say that it looks like she’s doing a bit more dancing than he is but He was good! Carianne LOVED it, Len was complementary but then said “I think it’s your time to go,” Bruno was kind of in between the two with his commentary. 24+28=52/60
Team dance score gets added to their scores this week. Lacey Schwimmer will fill in for Melissa on Team Mambo.
First up is Team Mambo. Melissa (Lacey) and Tony, Chuck and Julianne, Shawn and Mark. Dancing to “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” Shawn just isn’t doing it for me. She looks stiff. In some regards she’s very precise with her licks and arms but It’s not a sexy Mambo from her. Chuck and Julianne are doing a nice job with it. OH MY GOD. The end was just silly, the guys ripped off their jumpsuits to reveal one piece outfits that mimic Beyonce’s video. Carianne found it odd, Bruno liked the guys (duh!). 25/30
Team Tango is Gilles and Cheryl, Ty and Chelsie, Lil’ Kim and Derek. Opening with Gilles and Ty shirtless, being seduced by Lil’ Kim to the Britney song “Womanizer.” Kim and Derek’s solo is HOT! Looked like a bit of tangled footwork but not bad. Ty looks frightened but very strong, some good moves. Gilles has such a powerful presence, he makes this dance very sexy and intense. The synchronized finish was beautifully done by all! YAY! Carianne and Bruno LOVED it, Len said that Gilles’ footwork was atrocious but Ty nailed it. 28/30.
Looks like it could be Melissa going home, if the results are based purely on judges scores. If the fans work in their favor, they'll be back and it could be Ty going home.
(okay, I faked that last paragraph because I hadn't finished writing my summary last night, yet those were my thoughts earlier today. I already know who went home.)
Back...Since Yesterday, But...
File Under: Technology Withdrawl
So I got home yesterday, plugged in my computer and it didn't work. I fidgeted with it for close to an hour before I looked down and saw the big red light on my modem. Wireless, but it still has to go thru a modem and if it's not working, I'm not online. My phone/DSL line was down.
AT&T fixed it today. PTL!
Now onto my blogs about DWTS and California!
So I got home yesterday, plugged in my computer and it didn't work. I fidgeted with it for close to an hour before I looked down and saw the big red light on my modem. Wireless, but it still has to go thru a modem and if it's not working, I'm not online. My phone/DSL line was down.
AT&T fixed it today. PTL!
Now onto my blogs about DWTS and California!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Hello From California
File Under: Vacation-a-Go-Go
Greetings from the OC! I'm staying with my friend Mark, who lives in Orange County, CA. I arrived Thursday night and immediately we went for drinks at Downtown DisneyIt was nice seeing Anaheim's version compared to the Orlando version I visited last August. This one's smaller but just as pretty. Plus, no hurricane here, so bonus points!
The weather on Friday was partly cloudy, temperatures began in the low 60's and warmed to about 70. It was warmer in Chicago. LOL
Yesterday we went to Los Angeles. We wandered arount The Grove for a while. It's a fancy shopping mall where on any given days you might see a celeb or two wandering. Yesterday, there was nobody. We wandered through The Farmers Market which was very cool. I loved seeing all of the little stands and cute shops. We stopped in a French Market for energy drinks. I bought a new pair of sunglasses, too.
We then went to The 3rd Street Dance Studio, hoping to see some of the DWTS stars. No such luck. The parking lot was empty. We stood outside for a few minuted, debating if we should go upstairs. Finally we did. There was a woman behind the desk at the top of the stairs, she asked if we needed help. I quickly noticed dance schedules on the wall and said "oh, I'm just looking at your class schedules." She asked if I was a beginner and I said "oh yes, just interested in seeing what classes you offer." She was very nice and pointed out a few. I don't think I made eye contact with her once. I just kept looking around. She was very nice though.
Afterwards we went to the Sunset Strip and wandered. We went into The Standard, a small, swanky mod hotel with a loungy-looking lobby and minimalist design. Fans of "Sex and the City" will know that this is the hotel that was featured in a couple episodea and it's where Carrie and the gals stayed when they went to LA. We had drinks and snacks by the pool. It was partly cloudy and cool so there weren't many people out there. Once finished, we wandered a bit more, then headed back to Anaheim where I got to experience their version of Friday rush hour traffic. Delightful! We made the best of it.
Last night we had dinner at a Mexican restaurant that is all Elvis themed. It's so cute, and the food was good. Afterwards we came home, mixed some drinks and watched the movie "Heathers."
This morning I'm up and ready to hit the gym with Mark. We want to be all buff and hot for The Go-Go's concert tonight. Well, more so than we already are. :)
Greetings from the OC! I'm staying with my friend Mark, who lives in Orange County, CA. I arrived Thursday night and immediately we went for drinks at Downtown DisneyIt was nice seeing Anaheim's version compared to the Orlando version I visited last August. This one's smaller but just as pretty. Plus, no hurricane here, so bonus points!
The weather on Friday was partly cloudy, temperatures began in the low 60's and warmed to about 70. It was warmer in Chicago. LOL
Yesterday we went to Los Angeles. We wandered arount The Grove for a while. It's a fancy shopping mall where on any given days you might see a celeb or two wandering. Yesterday, there was nobody. We wandered through The Farmers Market which was very cool. I loved seeing all of the little stands and cute shops. We stopped in a French Market for energy drinks. I bought a new pair of sunglasses, too.
We then went to The 3rd Street Dance Studio, hoping to see some of the DWTS stars. No such luck. The parking lot was empty. We stood outside for a few minuted, debating if we should go upstairs. Finally we did. There was a woman behind the desk at the top of the stairs, she asked if we needed help. I quickly noticed dance schedules on the wall and said "oh, I'm just looking at your class schedules." She asked if I was a beginner and I said "oh yes, just interested in seeing what classes you offer." She was very nice and pointed out a few. I don't think I made eye contact with her once. I just kept looking around. She was very nice though.
Afterwards we went to the Sunset Strip and wandered. We went into The Standard, a small, swanky mod hotel with a loungy-looking lobby and minimalist design. Fans of "Sex and the City" will know that this is the hotel that was featured in a couple episodea and it's where Carrie and the gals stayed when they went to LA. We had drinks and snacks by the pool. It was partly cloudy and cool so there weren't many people out there. Once finished, we wandered a bit more, then headed back to Anaheim where I got to experience their version of Friday rush hour traffic. Delightful! We made the best of it.
Last night we had dinner at a Mexican restaurant that is all Elvis themed. It's so cute, and the food was good. Afterwards we came home, mixed some drinks and watched the movie "Heathers."
This morning I'm up and ready to hit the gym with Mark. We want to be all buff and hot for The Go-Go's concert tonight. Well, more so than we already are. :)
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Packed...For Real This Time
My bags are really packed now. I modified my wardrobe choices, I took out 2 pairs of shorts and added another pair of jeans. I now have 1 pair of shorts going on the trip instead of 3. It's going to be no warmer than 70 degrees each day. Certainly shorts weather by the middle of the day but cooler in the morning and at night so I figured I would play it safe. Lots of shirt choices. Mark wants to go to his spin class Saturday morning so I'll go to the gym with him. We both belong to the same gym so I'll get in a workout while he does his class. We said that we're going to be mistaken for Tori Spelling and Mary Kate Olsen at the concert Saturday night. He's Tori, so I guess that means that I'm the one who has to vomit up my meals.
My computer is going with me, hopefully I'll be able to check in from California and give updates. No promises this time...we all remember what happened the last time I went away and promised play by play reports. :)
My computer is going with me, hopefully I'll be able to check in from California and give updates. No promises this time...we all remember what happened the last time I went away and promised play by play reports. :)
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Baggage
File Under: Packed
My preliminary packing has been done. I'm pleased with how everything fit into the bag, there's still room in it and it's not terribly heavy.
What I'm more excited about is the fact that I tried on some of my clothes and shorts that I bought to wear to Florida last summer, which were a little snug, are now comfortable. Yay me! LOL
I'm sure tomorrow I'll come home from work and rearrange things in my bag, just to make sure I've done the most efficient packing job. I'll also check my list to make sure that I've got everything. I love my lists.
My preliminary packing has been done. I'm pleased with how everything fit into the bag, there's still room in it and it's not terribly heavy.
What I'm more excited about is the fact that I tried on some of my clothes and shorts that I bought to wear to Florida last summer, which were a little snug, are now comfortable. Yay me! LOL
I'm sure tomorrow I'll come home from work and rearrange things in my bag, just to make sure I've done the most efficient packing job. I'll also check my list to make sure that I've got everything. I love my lists.
DWTS - Results
File Under: TV Obsessions
Goodbye, Lawrence Taylor. You've danced your last dance of the competition. He didn't seen all that upset about leaving. Heck, he hardly wanted to be in the group dance.
And then there were 6. This is when the competition starts to get interesting.
The remaining stars are:
Lil' Kim, partnered with Derek Hough
Chuck Wickes, partnered with Julianne Hough
Gilles Marini, partnered with Cheryl Burke
Ty Murray, partnered with Chelsie Hightower
Shawn Johnson, partnered with Mark Ballas
Melissa Rycroft, partnered with Tony Dovolani
It will be interesting to see how all of this plays out.
Goodbye, Lawrence Taylor. You've danced your last dance of the competition. He didn't seen all that upset about leaving. Heck, he hardly wanted to be in the group dance.
And then there were 6. This is when the competition starts to get interesting.
The remaining stars are:
Lil' Kim, partnered with Derek Hough
Chuck Wickes, partnered with Julianne Hough
Gilles Marini, partnered with Cheryl Burke
Ty Murray, partnered with Chelsie Hightower
Shawn Johnson, partnered with Mark Ballas
Melissa Rycroft, partnered with Tony Dovolani
It will be interesting to see how all of this plays out.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Packing
File Under: Kind of unlike me
Thursday afternoon, I will board a plane, en route to Los Angeles. I can't wait, it's going to be a fun-filled weekend with some great friends I don't get to see all that often.
Normally I'd have my bag packed by now but this time I've just got a pile of clothes on a chair (Thanks, Dan!) and try as I might, willing them into the bag just isn't happening. I had hoped to pack this evening, allowing me a day to consider my choices and then repack once again. I can still do that if I pack tomorrow. There are a couple things I need to try on. Then I have to decide on shoes. Oh, the shoes.
I'm only going to be there 3 full days. I think that makes it more difficult, actually.
It'll get done.
Thursday afternoon, I will board a plane, en route to Los Angeles. I can't wait, it's going to be a fun-filled weekend with some great friends I don't get to see all that often.
Normally I'd have my bag packed by now but this time I've just got a pile of clothes on a chair (Thanks, Dan!) and try as I might, willing them into the bag just isn't happening. I had hoped to pack this evening, allowing me a day to consider my choices and then repack once again. I can still do that if I pack tomorrow. There are a couple things I need to try on. Then I have to decide on shoes. Oh, the shoes.
I'm only going to be there 3 full days. I think that makes it more difficult, actually.
It'll get done.
Dancing With the Stars - Week 7
File Under: Television Obsessions
These are my notes taken as I watched tonight's show. It'll be interesting to see how my opinions compare to those of Joy.
Yay…you know who has top billing, again. ;)
Tonight’s show is the first week where the stars are responsible for learning 2 dances. The dance with their partner and then the (dreaded) group dance. Looks like they’re starting to catch up on the dances they haven’t done yet. Doesn’t look like it’s just two dances tonight.
Melissa and Tony: Argentine Tango – Seductive start, good leg action. There she goes again with the ballet moves. Is she a “maneater?” I’m not fully convinced. She looks like she’s too worried about the technical stuff. It was nice though. Len loved it. Bruno loved it. Carianne loved it. Meh…guess I was wrong. 29/30
Lawrence and Edyta: Waltz – Uh oh…a lift. It’s a nice dance. He did well, she of course looks fantastic. Steve-o and Woz are sitting together in the audience. Bruno picked at it. Carianne was impressed (guess the lift was OK), Len saw flaws but was pleased. 21/30
Lil’ Kim and Derek: Rhumba (or do you say Rumba? I looked it up, both are correct!) – Wow, girl’s got a bootie! Nice sharp movements and a cool spinny move. Looks like a bit of a balance issue at one point but she did it. Pretty! Carianne called it underwhelming. Len said to go with what you know, don’t hold back. Bruno said it was a good rhumba, but agreed it wasn’t sexy enough. 26/30
Chuck and Julianne: Samba – He looks like a red hot poker, she’s all fringed out. Ooh, la la! Caliente! Not quite Gilles hot but good. His pants fit him VERY well. Mmm… Technique isn’t fantastic, still looks stiff…in his movements. Thought after that dance he may be stiff other places. ;) Len said its his best dance. Bruno was watching the butt too. Carianne is giddy. 27/30
Ty and Chelsie: Waltz – Sweet but he still seems unsure of his footwork and he’s stiff. He’s sloppy in his spins. Seems to be walking her around. Aw but he sure is cute. Very sweet. Hmm…Bruno liked it a lot. Carianne was pleased. Len liked it too. Again, what do I know? 24/30
Shawn and Mark: Cha-Cha – Nice, good leg movement, nice little spins. Funky dance and considering they didn’t have a lot of rehearsal time, it was nicely done. Carianne LOVED it. Len said that it was all good, technique and bounce. Bruno was thrilled! 28/30 (10 from Bruno)
Gilles and Cheryl: Viennese Waltz – Precise but light and fluid. Still something sexy about it. Nicely done, but not a lot of WOW. Judges were all favorable, picked at tiny parts. 27/30
Time for the group dance. A 60’s themed number. Oh dear God. Funny…this is one number that Belinda would have done well with since she does a lot of those dances on stage when she’s in concert. Judging from this rehearsal footage, it’s going to be…um…interesting. Commercial, time to fast-forward. Oh dear, Lawrence is SO not into this. Lil’ Kim, Melissa and Chuck look great. Mmm…kinda lame.
Okay...I think it's Lawrence's turn to go home. We'll see tomorrow night. Stay tuned!
These are my notes taken as I watched tonight's show. It'll be interesting to see how my opinions compare to those of Joy.
Yay…you know who has top billing, again. ;)
Tonight’s show is the first week where the stars are responsible for learning 2 dances. The dance with their partner and then the (dreaded) group dance. Looks like they’re starting to catch up on the dances they haven’t done yet. Doesn’t look like it’s just two dances tonight.
Melissa and Tony: Argentine Tango – Seductive start, good leg action. There she goes again with the ballet moves. Is she a “maneater?” I’m not fully convinced. She looks like she’s too worried about the technical stuff. It was nice though. Len loved it. Bruno loved it. Carianne loved it. Meh…guess I was wrong. 29/30
Lawrence and Edyta: Waltz – Uh oh…a lift. It’s a nice dance. He did well, she of course looks fantastic. Steve-o and Woz are sitting together in the audience. Bruno picked at it. Carianne was impressed (guess the lift was OK), Len saw flaws but was pleased. 21/30
Lil’ Kim and Derek: Rhumba (or do you say Rumba? I looked it up, both are correct!) – Wow, girl’s got a bootie! Nice sharp movements and a cool spinny move. Looks like a bit of a balance issue at one point but she did it. Pretty! Carianne called it underwhelming. Len said to go with what you know, don’t hold back. Bruno said it was a good rhumba, but agreed it wasn’t sexy enough. 26/30
Chuck and Julianne: Samba – He looks like a red hot poker, she’s all fringed out. Ooh, la la! Caliente! Not quite Gilles hot but good. His pants fit him VERY well. Mmm… Technique isn’t fantastic, still looks stiff…in his movements. Thought after that dance he may be stiff other places. ;) Len said its his best dance. Bruno was watching the butt too. Carianne is giddy. 27/30
Ty and Chelsie: Waltz – Sweet but he still seems unsure of his footwork and he’s stiff. He’s sloppy in his spins. Seems to be walking her around. Aw but he sure is cute. Very sweet. Hmm…Bruno liked it a lot. Carianne was pleased. Len liked it too. Again, what do I know? 24/30
Shawn and Mark: Cha-Cha – Nice, good leg movement, nice little spins. Funky dance and considering they didn’t have a lot of rehearsal time, it was nicely done. Carianne LOVED it. Len said that it was all good, technique and bounce. Bruno was thrilled! 28/30 (10 from Bruno)
Gilles and Cheryl: Viennese Waltz – Precise but light and fluid. Still something sexy about it. Nicely done, but not a lot of WOW. Judges were all favorable, picked at tiny parts. 27/30
Time for the group dance. A 60’s themed number. Oh dear God. Funny…this is one number that Belinda would have done well with since she does a lot of those dances on stage when she’s in concert. Judging from this rehearsal footage, it’s going to be…um…interesting. Commercial, time to fast-forward. Oh dear, Lawrence is SO not into this. Lil’ Kim, Melissa and Chuck look great. Mmm…kinda lame.
Okay...I think it's Lawrence's turn to go home. We'll see tomorrow night. Stay tuned!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Doug's Big Gay Ice Cream Truck
File Under: We all scream for ice cream
One of my very good friends is Doug. He lives in New York City. He's a professional musician, classically trained and he plays for orchestras all over the place. He's also a member of the Zephyros Winds. Very soon, he will be an ice cream man. No, not just any ordinary ice cream man, he's going to be behind the wheel of The Big Gay Ice Cream Truck!
Doug has created a Facebook page for The Big Gay Ice Cream Truck, and he has started a blog of the same name. Doug is a fantastic writer, please visit his blog and follow his adventures. I promise it will be FUN! Be sure to say hi and tell him that I sent you.
One of my very good friends is Doug. He lives in New York City. He's a professional musician, classically trained and he plays for orchestras all over the place. He's also a member of the Zephyros Winds. Very soon, he will be an ice cream man. No, not just any ordinary ice cream man, he's going to be behind the wheel of The Big Gay Ice Cream Truck!
Doug has created a Facebook page for The Big Gay Ice Cream Truck, and he has started a blog of the same name. Doug is a fantastic writer, please visit his blog and follow his adventures. I promise it will be FUN! Be sure to say hi and tell him that I sent you.
DWTS - The Results
File Under: TV Obsessions
Last night's episode of Dancing With The Stars saw the departure of Steve-O and Lacey Schwimmer. Steve was beginning to prove himself as a sincere contestant. He was trying and really seemed to want to do well. Unfortunately he wasn't a very good dancer and while he was starting to move less like a robot, it was too little too late and his fan votes finally weren't enough to save him.
Along side of him in the bottom two was Ty Murray, who also has had some difficulty with moving like a dancer. I would like to see him improve and stay another couple of weeks. We'll see.
Next week, the group dance! A "60's theme." Hmm...
Last night's episode of Dancing With The Stars saw the departure of Steve-O and Lacey Schwimmer. Steve was beginning to prove himself as a sincere contestant. He was trying and really seemed to want to do well. Unfortunately he wasn't a very good dancer and while he was starting to move less like a robot, it was too little too late and his fan votes finally weren't enough to save him.
Along side of him in the bottom two was Ty Murray, who also has had some difficulty with moving like a dancer. I would like to see him improve and stay another couple of weeks. We'll see.
Next week, the group dance! A "60's theme." Hmm...
Monday, April 13, 2009
Dancing With the Stars - Season 8, Week 6
File Under: Television Obsessions
Tonight’s remaining celebrities will be dancing either a Jive or a Rhumba. Ooh look, there was Belinda! She just won’t go away, will she? Here is my summary, comments occured as I watched the performances.
Ty and Chelsie – Jive. Chelsie decides to train Ty with a trampoline and a hula hoop. He jumped over her to start but isn’t moving very much otherwise. Okay he’s moving now. Still looks a bit stiff and looks scared. Okay he’s got a bit off step. It wasn’t great, but not bad. Judges not thrilled. 18/30
Shawn and Mark – Rumba. Mark created a Prom for rehearsal. It’s sweet…kind of difficult watching her dance such a romantic number. She moves well but seems to have trouble getting into the character of the dance. Credit to Mark for choreographing a nice number that is innocent enough. Judged liked it. Mark called the dance “age appropriate.” 26/30
Lawrence and Edyta – Jive. Warren Sapp paid Lawrence a visit in rehearsal and livened things up. Kind a slow start but he’s good with the footwork! Okay, they were pretty good! I have to say that I appreciate how Edyta doesn’t let her partners rest at all, she makes them work. Carrie saw a lift. (I’m rolling my eyes) 22/30
Melissa and Tony – Rhumba. This is slow and sexy, the moves look very ballet-like but it’s pretty. Judges had minor critiques. 27/30
Lil’ Kim and Derek – Jive. HA-HA, “Jailhouse Rock” – an ode to Kim’s jail stint I’m sure. Wow, they’re all over the place, very in character. Fun and bouncy. So cute! She is all over the place, very high energy. Queen Latifah is in the audience. Bruno is thrilled! Carrianne is also thrilled. OMG…Kim apparently had a minor wardrobe malfunction . Ever the gentleman Tom whispered to her then blocked her while she adjusted her top. 28/30. Len only gave them an 8. LOVE HER!!!!!
Steve-O and Lacey – Rhumba. Kind of out of step but he’s really trying. He’s got a few good moves. Lacey is doing more of the dancing. Not great…not horrible. Carianne called it mesmerizing. Len saw no dancing. Bruno called the dancing BAD. 16/30.
Gilles and Cheryl – Jive. Wow, Gilles rehearsal pants really “highlight” his goods. Wow this is an energetic jive. Lots of quick footwork, good body moves. It’s a sexy jive. His wife is right there in the front row, she’s so pretty. Len spotted a misstep and called it frantic. 26/30
Chuck and Julianne – Rhumba. They’re both very sparkly. Chuck looks yummy. Ooh, nipple! (his, not hers) Nice hip action. Not seeing a lot of “dance” moves out of him, more of him chasing her. But the performance was sexy and Yum he looks good. Bruno’s happy, Carianne’s horny. Len is horrified (okay not really, I was just going for alliteration). Len called it too raunchy. Bring it on. 23/30
Looks like it may be down to Steve-O and Ty tomorrow night in the dance off unless Steve-O’s fan base saves him again, then it may be Ty and Lawrence fighting to stay.
Next week is the return of the group dance, it’s going to be a 60’s theme! YAY!!
Stay tuned…
Tonight’s remaining celebrities will be dancing either a Jive or a Rhumba. Ooh look, there was Belinda! She just won’t go away, will she? Here is my summary, comments occured as I watched the performances.
Ty and Chelsie – Jive. Chelsie decides to train Ty with a trampoline and a hula hoop. He jumped over her to start but isn’t moving very much otherwise. Okay he’s moving now. Still looks a bit stiff and looks scared. Okay he’s got a bit off step. It wasn’t great, but not bad. Judges not thrilled. 18/30
Shawn and Mark – Rumba. Mark created a Prom for rehearsal. It’s sweet…kind of difficult watching her dance such a romantic number. She moves well but seems to have trouble getting into the character of the dance. Credit to Mark for choreographing a nice number that is innocent enough. Judged liked it. Mark called the dance “age appropriate.” 26/30
Lawrence and Edyta – Jive. Warren Sapp paid Lawrence a visit in rehearsal and livened things up. Kind a slow start but he’s good with the footwork! Okay, they were pretty good! I have to say that I appreciate how Edyta doesn’t let her partners rest at all, she makes them work. Carrie saw a lift. (I’m rolling my eyes) 22/30
Melissa and Tony – Rhumba. This is slow and sexy, the moves look very ballet-like but it’s pretty. Judges had minor critiques. 27/30
Lil’ Kim and Derek – Jive. HA-HA, “Jailhouse Rock” – an ode to Kim’s jail stint I’m sure. Wow, they’re all over the place, very in character. Fun and bouncy. So cute! She is all over the place, very high energy. Queen Latifah is in the audience. Bruno is thrilled! Carrianne is also thrilled. OMG…Kim apparently had a minor wardrobe malfunction . Ever the gentleman Tom whispered to her then blocked her while she adjusted her top. 28/30. Len only gave them an 8. LOVE HER!!!!!
Steve-O and Lacey – Rhumba. Kind of out of step but he’s really trying. He’s got a few good moves. Lacey is doing more of the dancing. Not great…not horrible. Carianne called it mesmerizing. Len saw no dancing. Bruno called the dancing BAD. 16/30.
Gilles and Cheryl – Jive. Wow, Gilles rehearsal pants really “highlight” his goods. Wow this is an energetic jive. Lots of quick footwork, good body moves. It’s a sexy jive. His wife is right there in the front row, she’s so pretty. Len spotted a misstep and called it frantic. 26/30
Chuck and Julianne – Rhumba. They’re both very sparkly. Chuck looks yummy. Ooh, nipple! (his, not hers) Nice hip action. Not seeing a lot of “dance” moves out of him, more of him chasing her. But the performance was sexy and Yum he looks good. Bruno’s happy, Carianne’s horny. Len is horrified (okay not really, I was just going for alliteration). Len called it too raunchy. Bring it on. 23/30
Looks like it may be down to Steve-O and Ty tomorrow night in the dance off unless Steve-O’s fan base saves him again, then it may be Ty and Lawrence fighting to stay.
Next week is the return of the group dance, it’s going to be a 60’s theme! YAY!!
Stay tuned…
HI
File Under: Checking in
Sorry I've been kind of quiet this past week. Not much to report. Life is good, just quiet at the moment. I promise more excitement, soon.
Next up, my DWTS update!
Sorry I've been kind of quiet this past week. Not much to report. Life is good, just quiet at the moment. I promise more excitement, soon.
Next up, my DWTS update!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
DWTS - Results
File Under: TV Obsessions
Tonight was the elimination episode for week 5. After filtering through the couples, we ended up with David/Kym and Lawrence/Edyta in the bottom two. They were forced into the dance-off.
David and Kym danced their Viennese Waltz again, in it the judges saw more of a connection and overall improvement, they received a 24/30.
Lawrence and Edyta danced their Paso Doble again, the judges weren't moved by tonight's rendition of the dance, they received a 20/30.
Cue the dramatic music and the red lights. After factoring the judges scores and the viewer votes, the couple that was sent home was David and Kym.
7 couples remain, including Steve-O and Lacey. Will they survive another week?
Tonight was the elimination episode for week 5. After filtering through the couples, we ended up with David/Kym and Lawrence/Edyta in the bottom two. They were forced into the dance-off.
David and Kym danced their Viennese Waltz again, in it the judges saw more of a connection and overall improvement, they received a 24/30.
Lawrence and Edyta danced their Paso Doble again, the judges weren't moved by tonight's rendition of the dance, they received a 20/30.
Cue the dramatic music and the red lights. After factoring the judges scores and the viewer votes, the couple that was sent home was David and Kym.
7 couples remain, including Steve-O and Lacey. Will they survive another week?
Monday, April 6, 2009
Another DWTS reviewer
File Under: TV Buddies
My friend and fellow blogger Joy (Babble On), watches DWTS too. She also reviews the dancers and posts her thoughts. I invite you to read her blog and compare her thoughts to mine. See where we agree and disagree. Find her post here.
My friend and fellow blogger Joy (Babble On), watches DWTS too. She also reviews the dancers and posts her thoughts. I invite you to read her blog and compare her thoughts to mine. See where we agree and disagree. Find her post here.
Dancing With The Stars - Season 8, Week 5
File Under: TV Obsessions
Still happy to see that Belinda Carlisle gets top billing on the show she’s no longer on. That makes me smile.
Okay, okay, I know it’s alphabetical order. Tonight’s dances are the Paso Doble and the Viennese Waltz.
Chuck and Julianne – Viennese Waltz: Looks good in his snug grey trousers. He looks looser but still unsure of his steps in a couple spots, but he’s smiling and looks like he’s having fun. Improved over last week, I think. Bruno and Len liked it but identified small flaws. Carianne was a bit more nitpicky and saw a questionable lift. 23/30
Lawrence and Edyta – Paso Doble: Lawrence looks stiff in his holds and somewhat jerky. Edyta of course looks lovely. He’s doing some intricate footwork but not much of a dance. So he flings her around here and there. Judges had some kind words but reviews were mixed. 20/30
Shawn and Mark – Viennese Waltz: Nice and light on her feet, good with her footwork, nice moves. Uh oh, I think there was a bit of a lift in that twirl. Hmm…definitely ended with a lift but that was their finish…does that count? First “lift” wasn’t one, per Carianne, second lift didn’t count. Len spotted technical flaw in footwork. Bruno was very pleased. 26/30
Melissa and Tony – Paso Doble: Very intense. Wow, they’re good. She’s really working the high kicks…yes we know you can do them. Okay I get it, it’s sort of a Latin dance meets Bollywood. Nice. Len spotted “blunders.” Bruno and Carianne were in sync with their criticisms. 25/30
David and Kim – Viennese Waltz: Wow, she’s got fans. He doesn’t keep his arms straight in the holds. Okay second time was better. Hmm, that was sloppy when he spun her on the floor. Meh, I didn’t like their routine. Bruno and Carianne didn’t love it, Len had nicer things to say. 22/30
Gilles and Cheryl – Paso Doble: Well look, he’s shirtless. He puts as much into his dances as his partner does. He’s got great moves and the little jumps. His timing is great. Okay I need a cigarette. Carianne and Bruno are standing, Bruno is doing pelvic thrusts. Carianne said it was the core and the essence of the dance. Len called it hectic. Bruno just came in his pants. 29/30
Steve-O and Lacey – Viennese Waltz: Oooh, a French theme, he’s pretending he’s a mime. He’s very stiff. He can do the moves and at times he’s not bad but wow he just lacks range of motion. Yay…midget in the crowd!! Len said it was his best dance. Bruno and Carianne were also complementary. 18/30
Ty and Chelsie - Paso Doble: Kind of stiff but he’s got the moves, he’s not bad, but not great. A bit lackluster but maybe that’s because I just saw Gilles. Bruno and Carianne saw the stiffness. Len just chalked this one up to “not being Ty’s cup of tea.” 21/30
Lil’ Kim and Derek – Viennese Waltz: She does a really nice job with these graceful dances. Nice footwork, good leg extensions. She doesn’t appear to be afraid to try more difficult moves. Pretty! She just makes me smile!! Carianne says that they complement each other. Len called it floaty and lyrical. Bruno says that she makes the dance look sassy. 26/30
Dance off tomorrow…probably Steve-O and David. Maybe Ty, but I hope he gets another chance. Results tomorrow…stay tuned.
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