Kitten a Go-Go

Burn The Floor / Giselle Peacock is a Superstar

I know, I know.  It's been a while.  I'm up to something.  Many things.  Be patient.  Let's act like I update every day and you know all about what I've been doing.  It makes it easier, like I haven't been neglecting all six of you while I work on secret business.

Yesterday was Danielle's Big Adventure in New York City with Leslie.  Because the weather was abnormally cold, we wanted no involvement in the outdoors, so the big event was viewing "Burn the Floor."  Here are my thoughts, in list format, because I like lists.  (Have you already forgotten that about me??  Tsk tsk.)

1. Mary Murphy's hair, regardless of the speed of her movement and flinging her head around, always looks the same.  Waltz, jive, etc.
2. Maks and Kym are two of the foxiest people on earth.  Karina is a dumb whore. 
3. During the entire show, if Kym wasn't out, the primary dancer was a tiny firecracker whose name I didn't know.  Due to certain physical attributes, she was dubbed Tits.  Tits was on fire.  I would have broken my neck and pulled every muscle in my body if I attempted to do the things she did on stage.  Her high speed latin dancing was some of the best that I've ever seen.  Tits was absolutely mesmerizing.  At the end of the night, we learned that she was Giselle Peacock, which has to be the greatest name in the history of names.  Except, perhaps, for the last name Pennypowers. 
4. One of the other dancers looked a lot like someone I know.  Someone I will call Brrridget or Beth's Best Friend.  But only if Brrridget or Beth's Best Friend had a surgery to reduce certain assets of her own. 
5. I have always hated the rumba.  Now, I have learned that there are certain equations that are necessary to making the rumba work.  Quite simply, no television show has ever tried these in my presence.  First equation:  6 male dancers + 1 female dancer + 1 blindfold = 1 smokin' hot rumba.  Second equation:  Maks + Kym (in her bra and underwear with a big shirt over it) = 1 smokin' hot rumba.  Third equation:  Mary Murphy + some random guy + the waltz + over and over again = worse than the worst rumbas ever.

Now, click here.  Scroll down.  I'm pretty sure that you can pick out Giselle Peacock.  For those that know Brrridget or Beth's Best Friend, I think you can scroll down one more and see what you think. 

Burn the Floor is closing soon.  Really soon.  If you like dance, go.  It's a good time.  You can get a great deal on tickets.  Mine were buy one, get one.  The singers are also pretty amazing. 

Three of Many Who Deserve Recognition

I have a lot of stuff.  I've been working on downsizing.  I had some on eBay.  Other things, I pulled aside.  I couldn't believe how much had never been used.  Sigh.  It was all going to Goodwill.  Then I got to thinking.  It seemed like a fine time to send some treats to a few friends who do a whole lot of good for others. 

First, there's my friend Robin.  She's been mentioned both here and on my other blogs before.  Robin is an amazing mom and one of the hardest working people you will ever meet.  One of the things she works hardest at is treading lightly on the earth.  She has been an absolute inspiration to me in my quest to become more green.  Robin has raised three amazing and beautiful children who are full of spunk and joy.  There is a package on its way for Robin (and her daughter) to celebrate Robin and everything she does. 

Next, there's Kamira.  I've also written about her.  I absolutely heart Kamira.  I have known her since my freshman year of high school and I'm so glad that our paths reconnected through the magical world of FB.  Kamira has a job in the world of higher education that leads to some of the funniest stories I have ever heard.  Kamira faces challenges with the best attitude.  I love seeing her updates and I love hearing her stories.  And, frankly, I love commenting on her rack because I love when she laughs.  Kamira, there's a little something on the way for you too.

Finally, there's Tina.  Tina manages a salon in Delaware and owns her own business in the salon.  She is a beautiful person, inside and out.  (Okay, honestly, she's a total hottie.)  Recently, I was so impressed by her salon's activism on behalf of breast cancer research.  I wish I lived closer because I would have purchased tons of lip gloss!  Tina is a woman with tons of style and she has a treat coming that will reflect that, I hope. 

Who knows, maybe I will recognize you next.  Or perhaps this will inspire you to send a random treat to someone who adds to your life.  Thank you to Robin for your constant inspiration.  Thank you to Kamira for constantly bringing me joy.  Thank you to Tina for constantly making me smile and impressing me with your business activism.  Three inspiring women.  If you don't like anything in your boxes o' treats, pass 'em on to someone who will. 

Medication Review: Death to Migraines

When I went to the neuro, she gave me samples of two meds to take when I have a headache. 

First, there was Treximet (ooh la la).  I took it yesterday and it worked wonders.  I love the blue pill.  I am afraid to write that I am taking a blue pill because Viagra has the corner on that market, but going forward, my blue pill is Treximet (ooh la la).  (Although Valtrex is also blue, but that pill is enormous and I can rarely take it because it makes me ill.  Damn you EBV!) 

I also received samples of Zomig, which dissolves on the tongue.  I started getting a headache this morning and I thought eating might help, so I kept my lunch date with a super lovely lady lawyer.  Food didn't help at all.  As soon as I got back to the office, all of the vision problems started.  Rather than wait for the Treximet (ooh la la) to work, I figured I'd try the Zomig.  Since it dissolves, I figured it would be fast-acting.  It acted fast, for sure.  But it made me feel worse. 

So, I drove home.  I strongly wished that I lived in an overcast sort of climate because the sun on the way home was absolutely miserable and I sort of stared at the road and not straight ahead.  Fortunately, traffic was light. 

The Zomig knocked me out.  I don't know if that is normal or not.  It a very strange nap, filled with crazy ass dreams. 

When I woke up, I still had the headache.  The light sensitivity and ringing ears have eased up, but the pain is still there.  This leads me to conclude that Zomig sucks and Treximet (ooh la la) kicks its ass.  I know which one I will be asking for the full Rx for. 

In addition, Zomig tastes like ass when it is dissolving.  Why can't they make it taste like mint or something???

I also picked up my Topomax Rx.  I hope that starts working quickly as a preventative.  I cannot stand dealing with these headaches at work. 

I Heart Kamira

I went to high school with an amazing woman, Kamira.  At that time and to this day, I have stated that if I was a black woman, I want to be Kamira.  It helps that she is about a foot taller than me and has the most amazing cleveage YOU WILL EVER SEE.  However, this is not about her bosoms or about how generally awesome that I think she is.  (Although I will quickly state that I thank FB for bringing her back into my life because I LOVE IT WHEN SHE'S AROUND.  She is one of those people that you just love.)

Today, she was reading the newspaper online and was disturbed by what she read.  She was moved to action and posted the following reply.  I am posting it here because I want to applaud her.  She stands up for what is important.  I FREQUENTLY censor myself on FB (not here, really, but I am pretty sure more people read my FB statuses) because I don't want to offend someone.  I am, in essence, a chicken shit.  Why, I don't know.  I'm surely opinionated and sassy otherwise. 

Bravo, Kamira.  I'm proud of you for putting this out there and I know it will stick with some of the pricks the comment was directed to.   

Kamira's comment:

"I am a life long *** resident, and I read the *** on line every day. Each day I am more and more disappointed with some of the residents of this county. To the person who posts as "[ASSHAT]": Yes, I am going to call you a racist. However, if I am to use the comments posted on this site as any judge, the vast majority of the county is apparently racist.

If you have not lived in someone's shoes, you cannot judge them. End of story. Let us be clear- there are communities in distress. Communities need to ban together to make positive strides for themselves, neighboring communities, their children, and all future generations. But to "pass the buck" and state that its Section 8, Welfare, or Blacks who have caused all of this is ridiculously irresponsible. These services are in place to assist those who are downtrodden. One day, you may find yourself in need! WE ALL must work together. If you are concerned about your neighborhood, be a positive part of the solution. Otherwise, you are part of the problem. Contact your local police about instituting a Neighborhood Watch. Be the person who creates a watch program on your block, to inspire the next block to do the same. Go out and clean your sidewalk. Take pride in your surroundings. AND STOP JUDGING. You do not know the things that are going on in people's lives.

Some people are quick to blame Blacks, Latinos, or other ethnic groups for an issue. The next time a white child shoots up a school, [ASSHAT], [ASSHAT2], and all the others who post on here with their racist comments, I'd like to see your opinion on the raising of that white child. I'm sure you'll say s/he listened to rap music or some such nonsense.

As an aside, I work in a 2 year college. There are students who come into my office trying to get letters to help them "beat" the Welfare system. Guess what? They're White. Abuse of the system is a human condition, not a racial one.

If I sound as though I'm taking this personally, I readily admit that I am. Yes, I am Black. I also live in xxx. I also have a Bachelor's from [GOOD PHILLY SCHOOL]. And before one of the "racist posters" makes an affirmative action comment, why yes, I did get every scholarship in the book... because I aced my SATs. You have a right to your opinion, and a right to free speech. I'm just asking that before you make broad and sweeping generalizations, you also exercise your right to think.

Thanks for letting me vent."

Julie & Julia

I've read tons of reviews of Julie & Julia that focus on Meryl Streep and how amazing she is.  No doubt - she is amazing, as always.  Some of the reviews said that her story was much more interesting or engaging or wonderful than the scenes regarding Julie Powell.  To those reviewers, I say, nope. 

Perhaps it is because I am a blogger who often feels like I am writing without any sort of direction or purpose, but I adored the scenes on Julie Powell.  She felt so real.  Her frustrations were real.  That blogging can cause strife in personal relationships, very real.  I strongly connected with her character.  The amazing success and failures.  Bravo. 

Don't get me wrong, the scenes with Julia and her husband were amazing.  Meryl Streep brought such joy to the screen.  Even in her frustrations, there was an underlying joie de vivre that most people don't have.  Or perhaps we are too jaded and don't think joie de vivre is cool anymore.  Who can be sure.

Go see the movie.  Unless your husband really likes duck and then expects you to cook it for him.  Then, just don't take your husband.  Unless you can cook duck.  I can't.  There's simply no way.

Book Review: Plant Seed, Pull Weed by Gerk Larkin

One of this month's non-fiction reading selections was Plant Seed, Pull Weed:  Nurturing the Garden of Your Lifeby Geri Larkin.  Since I have felt off-center recently, I have been trying to read more about Buddhism so that I can get back to basics.  This book is one I would recommend to anyone, regardless of their religion.  It has life lessons that apply to all. 

Since I started reading the book, I feel better.  I am putting the lessons to use.  I am living in the moment.  I am savoring my time more.  The Boy says that there is a notable change in the "vibe that I am putting off." 

I cannot wait to read Larkin's other books.  I also can't wait to plant my own vegetable garden next year.

A Comment that Deserves Its Own Post: More on Prop 8

Yesterday, I posted my thoughts on Prop 8.  I don't think that I can repeat enough times how much I hate this topic.  I hate that it has to exist.  I hate that it passed.  I hate that there are other people in the world who think their molds of the truth are more important than someone else's.  It takes every ounce of restraint in me not to shout when someone states that sexual orientation is a choice that someone makes.  I never chose to be straight.  That's a whole different post. 

Just in case you don't read the comments here, I wanted to highlight a comment that I received and I think it is beautiful.  This was written by one of my law school classmates and I think he might be swaying me on the legal argument.  (Always the sign of a good advocate.  Well done, Shawn.)  I want to thank Shawn for sharing this.  It makes me feel good to know that so many people share similar feelings.  Here are his words: 

The question really turned on whether you believe that prop 8 was a revision to the California state constitution.   If you did, the decision yesterday was poorly made, as it did not follow the proper procedure of being passed by 2/3 of the state's house and senate. 

If you do not believe that Prop 8 was a revision (only an addition) to the Constitution, then it was a correct use of the voter initiative.

I personally believe that after reading the Court's opinion on same sex marriage that Prop 8 was a revision, and therefore and invalid (and improper) use of the voter initiative process.  Obviously, the State Supreme Court felt otherwise.

Even though I don't live in California (nor do I want to), I am sick over this decision.  My accountant and his partner here in Fort Lauderdale were married in California this past summer.    They have both expressed that "being married" - even though they have lived together for 15 years, and raised children together - has been a sacred experience and that they feel truly united as a family NOW that they are married.

To deny any couple the right of public recognition of their relationship and all of the rights and obligations (especially the benefits that go along with them) IS WRONG.   What most people fail to recognize is that there is a true economic advantage to all couples that possess a civil marriage license.   Here in Florida, there is homestead (for both property ownership,creditor protection, descent statutes, property taxes, and medicaid liens) that are not available to couples that choose not to marry.   I do not advocate that all couples get married for the benefits alone, but my same-sex clients are being screwed because this option is NOT available to them.   How can this be fair?   They pay taxes - often more than their opposite sex counterparts - and are denied any benefits of their relationship.

I don't see how anyone can read any of the decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court (Loving) recognizing that marriage is a fundamental right can rationalize that there is some exclusion in these decision for same-sex couples.   This is bigotry and homophobia at its worst.  I am sick and disappointed that such discrimination exists in America.    This must change - NOW.

My Thoughts on Prop 8

Personally, I think Prop 8 sucks.  I don't live in California, but it is an issue that is important to me and that I feel passionate about.  I am not here to dictate who someone gets to love.  Why on earth should I get to be married twice and other people, simply because their love doesn't fit within someone's else's belief system, can never be married.  When Prop 8 passed, I felt deep disappointment.  I detest that we still live in a world with this kind of inequality.  It saddens me that some groups feel that their beliefs about the definition of love and marriage are superior.

That being said, I do not feel that the CA court made the wrong decision today.  The Proposition passed.  The voters have the power.  That's the way government works.  No matter how shitty I think Prop 8 is, I do not believe that the Court's decision was legally unsound. 

I think that, if people are angry, they need to ACT and get on the ballot in 2010 and overturn Prop 8.  Make sure it is worded in a very clear manner so that there is no confusion for voters.  Then, get out there and spread your message. 

I asked my husband if it made me a bad liberal because I thought the Court made a sound decision.  He said that it was okay because I was being intellectually honest.  So there you have it.

Spent by Dr. Frank Lipman

About a month ago, I was reading Goop.  (Shut up, I look at it from time to time.  She is not running my damn life or anything.)  There was an interview with the doctor who wrote Spent.  The book seemed interesting enough and it obviously had Paltrow's seal of approval, so I bought it.

I've got some issues with this book.  Here's the thing, I can't believe this book about exhaustion and chronic pain and digestive issues was possibly written without a single mention of fibromyalgia or candida.  See, Dr. Lipman seems to be making a brand new illness called Spent.  I don't mind how he wants to treat it holistically or any of that.  Dr. Lipman ignores a lot.  I've read most books on fibro at this point.  I've also read all of Dr. Crook's books on candida.  It seems like Dr. Lipman uses the symptoms of both issues and refuses to label it as what it is.  Instead, let's create something new. 

Simply put, I'm returning the book.  This is the kind of shit that irritates me about views on fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue.  They are both very real illnesses. Yet, instead of taking his work on an approach to healing, and applying it to an illness for an illness for which so many are searching for answers, he calls it something else.  Sigh.  Fibro is finally starting to gain acceptance that it's "not just in your head" and now we have to call it something new because he has high profile clients?  Oh, wouldn't I love to see a celebrity spokesperson for fibro so that people might actually believe it is real. 

The book's methods weren't objectionable.  I am simply not supporting someone who refuses to call it what it is.  It's fibromyalgia.  It's chronic fatigue.  It's Epstein Barr.  It's candida.  It's Leaky Gut Syndrome.  It's not Spent, Dr. Lipman.  As someone who has been "Spent" for years, I had years of doctors not believing me until I went to the FFC.  I'm sure as hell not going into my doctor and saying, Yeah, I think I've got Spent, see, it's in this book that Gywneth Paltrow recommended...  I think you could have done something great for people who suffer from these illnesses.  Instead, you try to make something new.  It's not new and it sucks. 

Live: It's Dancing with the Stars with Brian and Danielle

As most of you know, on Friday, I got an email from On Camera Audiences that I had come up on the waiting list again for DWTS tickets for Monday or Tuesday of this week.  After some haggling, Brian (who gets to not be The Boy in this entry) and I decided to spend the night on Sunday night since the wee petri dishes were spending Easter elsewhere. 

Our journey started on Sunday around 1:30, and we intended to go to Santa Monica so that I could see the ocean and then check-in at the hotel.  Wanna know what you get on Sunday afternoon on the way to California?  Traffic.  Lots of it.  In Barstow, I stopped, as usual, at In N Out.  Imagine my disappointment when they were closed for Easter.  I hadto have El Pollo Loco instead.  My day was not going well.  My day continued to not go well when it got dark before we got there and I didn't get to see the ocean.  (I have no interest when it is dark.)  We finally got checked in around 7:45.  That's right - long ass car ride.

We ate dinner at Sushi Roku since it was close to our hotel, Elan.  Yeah, overpriced and mediocre.  Wouldn't really recommend it.  Plus, the prick took my plate before I could have that last bit of ginger, which is my favorite part. 

When we got up on Monday, I called On Camera Audiences and discussed what happened last year when we got turned away.  More haggling.  They agreed to put us on the priority ticket list even though it was last season. 

We walked to the theater.  I wore practical shoes for the walk and held my beloved Stuart Weitzmans in my hand.  (I later attempted to wear the shoes and that didn't work out, but it didn't matter, as you will see.) 

We got in and were seated on benches.  I got to use a star wagon.  Regardless of the use of the word star, it was a generic portapotty.  [Kat, do you get to use Star Wagons on set??]

While we were sitting (and frequently lectured on gum chewing), Tony, Lacey and Shawn Johnson came out to the crowd.  We talked to Tony and he apparently likes Vegas.  He sat on the lap of the woman next to me.  (If there is any chance that we will be on camera, I suspect it would be in this footage.)

They let the first row in. They were all seat fillers on the first floor.  My favorite threesome (hereinafter "the JC Penney Models and their mom") were seated behind the judges.  Our bleacher was seated in the first row of the balcony where Tom and Samantha don't usually announce from (i.e., why my shoes didn't matter).  I was content with our seats.  First, we could see.  Second, if a VIP showed up, we still had decent seats. 

Then there was some waiting while the crowd filled in.  We got to see a "pre-tape" of the West Side Story dance.  IT WAS FANTASTIC.  I would love to go see that show now.  Although America is my favorite song and I don't really like the play or the other songs...  Except I feel pretty.  That was my favorite audition song for high school theater. 

Celebs started to drift in.  Woz was directly below us.  So was Queen Latifah.  I believe she was escorted by her "trainer."  The Jackass crew was there.  I have to say that Gilles' Marini's wife is one of the most beautiful women I have ever seen in real life.  Seriously, stunning.  Brian agrees, but only with the caveat that I am the most beautiful.  (Jewel was also really pretty too, hobbling in on her crutch.)

We were seated directly across the aisle from Phyllis Diller.  Dude, PHYLLIS DILLER.  That shit was so cool.  She looks just like I remember her from Scooby Doo.

The show got started with the annoying warm up guy.  He made audience members dance.  I need to stress that I DO NOT LIKE HIM.  BRIAN DID NOT LIKE HIM.  HE SUCKED.  (and he never gave me a prize, so he didn't win any favor points that way.)

Judge introduction time.  Carrie Anne.  Didn't like her dress.  Felt a sense of smug satisfaction when she tripped on it. 

Len.  Charming, british and orange skinned.  At least he wasn't wearing yellow. 

Bruno.  Sparkling in black.  Did some pelvic thrusts and went in-say-yay-yay-yay-ane.

Next, my arch nemesis, Samantha Harris.  Internet, it pains me to write these words, but I have to be honest.  I did not hate her as much in person as I do all of the rest of the time.  She was barely in my sight and I wasn't paying attention much when she was doing her backstage stuff.  First, her arms.  Holy shit, Samantha Harris's arms rival Linda Hamilton in the Terminator 2.  She could kick my ass even though I outweigh her by at least three hundred lbs.  Second, she was wearing a really pretty red dress.  Third, she was dancing like a white girl at the prom the whole time she wasn't on camera. (Having been a white girl at a prom on numerous occasions, I can say this with authority.)  She seriously started to walk like an Egyptian past the camera at one point.  Fortunately, when she spoke, the audience usually had to cheer and I couldn't hear her.  So she was exactly what I want from her:  mute.  I'm sure we will watch the show and I will be enraged, like usual. 

Show starts.  Ty and Chelsie first.  I love Chelsie Hightower and have made that clear since she was on So You Think You Can Dance.  She was adorable and I don't think Ty was quite as bad as it seemed.  She definitely talks him through parts of it.  Plus, Chelsie looked cute as hell in her flag shirt.

After they danced and they went to commercial break, the annoying audience warm up guy talked to Chelsie's grandfather and it was very cute.  One of her many younger siblings was there.  A wee bitty Chelsie Hightower.  [Speaking of dancer family members, Buddy Schwimmer, King of West Coast Swing, was wearing track pants.  I am pissed that I tried to look nice.  Clearly I could have worn my PJs.]

I don't know if i am going to get the rest of dances in order.  But I'll do my best. 

Melissa and Tony.  Liked them a lot and thought their scores should have been higher.  Now, she clearly has a lower back tattoo.  Do they really glitter that thing up every week?  I wish my tattoo would sparkle.  Only issue:  I hate that stupid beyonce song if i were a boy.  HATE it.  Almost as much as I hate the rumba.

LT and Edyta.  I was extremely curious to see Edyta.  I thought she was going to be alarmingly thin in person.  She wasn't.  She was like one giant muscle that is tan as leather.  I thought her leg curtains were weird.  She is great and I really hope they give her a good partner so that she can win someday.  LT sucked.  I don't think he deserved the praise that he got.

Lil Kim and Derek definitely brought down the house.  Everyone was screaming and cheering.  I don't know if i would go with tens, but they were good. 

Shawn and Mark.  Very cute.  I loved the prom theme.

Gilles and Cheryl - they are freaking fantastic and I was pissed that their scores weren't higher.  That dance was crazy fast and good.  When he came out before the dance (while the video was playing), he was really friendly and I love that he kisses his wife, the hottest woman alive. 

Steve O and Lacey.  Lacey is hot as hell.  She was adorable when they were out working the crowd.  I loved her little boy shorts.  I liked their routine.  I want Steve O to do well.  He was so cute sitting there with his fingers in his ears while they played the video about him farting.  But let's be honest, he can't dance. 

Julianne and Chuck.  I know, I know.  Support him because he is from DE.  Here's my issue:  Julianne is scrawny.  Way too thin.  Didn't like that.  A coworker wants to know if she is still on the virgin train or if she has succumbed to Chuck's charms.  I can say for sure that I do not know if Julianne Hough is a virgin or not.  They don't reveal their deepest secrets during commercial break.

The band is really impressive.  I wish I could have talked to the lady with the stuff on her head and the extremely ample cleavage.  i also wish that I could have met Tom.  Frankly, he looks tired between takes.  Perhaps it is because Bruno is seriously a pain in the ass the entire time, from the looks of it. 

After the show, we got an astroburger on Melrose and got home around 11:30.  Wish fulfilled.  don't think I'll do it again because the drive is just too much.  But it was very cool. 

There's No Crying In Ballroom...

But it's apparently okay if the inarticulate hostess coughs on the talent.  Or takes a drink in the middle of her only job - to make uncomfortable chit chat during score time. 

I HATE SAMANTHA HARRIS.  SHE'S SICK.  SHE SHOULDN'T BE THERE.  BUT SHE'S TOO SCARED TO LOSE HER JOB.  SHE KNOWS SHE CAN'T TAKE A DAY OFF BECAUSE THEY WILL CHANGE THE LOCKS.  I BET SHE SLEEPS THERE.  BECAUSE SHE IS SCARED.  SHE SHOULD BE.  IDIOT.

Oh, sorry.  I got a little lost in the moment.  I want to comment on a few things.  Let's make a list.

1.  I think Karina is hoping near nudity will help with the geek votes.
2.  Shmark.  That's funny shit.
3.  Lil Kim doesn't do it for me.
4.  Poor Steve O. 
5.  I heart Chelsie Hightower.  Their routine was great.  She's doing well with that cowboy. 
6.  This season's football player didn't really do anything but walk.  That was all Edyta. 
7.  We missed DAG because of a DVR mishap that I don't want to talk about. 
8.  I heart naked guy and feel he truly deserved that perfect score.  And way to go costuming!  I'm loving all of the hose with seams.  Especially sparkle seams.
9.  My favorite is definitely Bachelor chick.  Mostly because she's got to be thinking she dodged a bullet with that guy that dumped her and now she is having a ball and probably making some pretty good money.  That's what they call a comeback. 

Wait, I can't help it.  I want to talk about Samantha Harris more.  Why does Chelsea Handler hate her???  Why hasn't Perez reported on this???

Jeopardy! You just got schooled Pawson-style

Well, tonight was the culmination of a year's worth of obsession with Jeopardy!  The second day of the Tournament of Champions.  It was a kick ass game between Ms. Larissa Kelly and my new Boston BFF, Dan Pawson.  I was extremely excited to watch it.  I could tell from all of the hits on this blog asking if Aaron Schroeder is gay that a lot of people were watching and interested.  (As I have repeatedly said, I don't know if Aaron is gay, but I think he might need glasses because he seems to squint when look at far away stuff.) 

I am sad for Larissa, but I've become quite a fan of Dan Pawson over the past weeks.  I liked him when he was on and thought he was a freaky right answer robot.  He seemed super confident tonight.  Look how fast he wrote down Who is George?  I would be dead if someone asked me about British Royalty.  (Or presidents.  or anything historic that isn't American after 1900 or art related.  I'm good at books and I kicked all of their asses in the french confections category last night.) 

So, Larissa, I could see your disappointment.  I am sad for you.  But Dan Pawson, I congratulate you.  You made it look oh so easy.  Good luck building your house fund!

DWTS: Sequin Samba Edition

Tonight, Bruno said too many important things to just ignore them.  First, he called the tiny gymnast a beautiful bejeweled hummingbird.  Then he told naked guy that he was throbbing red hot poker.  It was an interesting night for Bruno. 

Let's get down to business.  I need Samantha Harris to be fired.  I don't know how to get the job done.  Everyone I know hates her.  Including my pretend friend Chelsea Handler.  I do NOT understand how she has stayed on the show this long.  My beloved Tom Bergeron is everything a host should be.  Charming, quick on his feet and literate.  Samantha, not so much.

My proposal is that we fire Samantha and bring on Cat Deeley.  There's clearly quite a bit of cross-over now with So You Think You Can Dance, so I don't see why they can't share everything, including hostesses.  My only purpose for Samantha Harris is to see what she is wearing and look at her jewelry.  They could dress Cat Deeley in those dresses and bejewel her.  She can read.  She's appropriate when interviewing.  If her dress has a pocket, she doesn't constantly have a hand in it so that you are always reminded that there is a pocket.  (Did you think I didn't pick up on that last week, Samantha?  I did and I didn't like it.  Not one little bit.)  Cat Deeley could even bring some of her weird costumes, like when she was an African Princess or a fairy or a ballerina.  It's all fine.  Just get rid of Samantha. 

Jeopardy! More on Champions, Larissa and my new friend Dan Pawson

Today, I had a killer day at work.  I do not blog about job specifics, but there were depositions and oppositions and other things ending in -tions.  I worked all weekend.  I expected to have a very late night because of one of the -tions.  I got out at seven.  As I stumbled toward the elevator, I had on thing on my mind:  TONIGHT WAS THE FIRST NIGHT OF THE TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS FINALS.  (and note, west coast people and Alex Tree-beck, it's tour-nament.  not turn-ament.)

I got home.  I happily started steaming cabbage.  (Have I mentioned that there is no food in the house because I worked all weekend and didn't have time to grocery shop?  I had spelt english muffins and cabbage for dinner.  A fine combo, but I digress.)

Tonight was day one of the finals.  Everytone knows that I have a little lady crush on Larissa.  (She's up there with Detective Olivia Benson.)  I am still blown away by her eerie calm face and her furious button pushing.  Man, she was getting her whole body into it. 

I still like Aaron Schroeder.  But, internet, I repeat - I do not know if he is gay.  I apologize to everyone who gets here by wondering about this man's sexual preferences.  I just don't know and I'm sorry to everyone that I've disappointed.  (Ages ago, I used to get searches for a tampon instructional video.  Don't know why.  But it happened.  Same thing here.  Not something I've got for you, but good luck with your search and I hope you find what you are looking for.)

The person I want to focus on tonight is Mr. Dan Pawson.  Dan has freaked me out a little bit on past episodes.  I swear, part robot.  No emotion.  Right answer.  Right answer.  Right answer.  Never seemed dismayed, overjoyed.  He is a correct answering machine.  Tonight, he did the ballsy true daily double thing (always respectable).  Then, he pulled my absolute favorite move - betting a weird amount on a daily double.  Nothing pisses of Tree-beck more than when you bet an off the wall number. He bet $22.  I could tell that Alex was annoyed when he had to say $7,178.  Since Alex's presence annoys me more than anything on the show except the "clue crew" and their never-ending trip to Peru, I am always secretly pleased when someone ruffles his Canadian feathers.

So, my favorites are now:  Larissa, Dan and then Aaron.  Sure, I never composed an entry regarding Dan when he had his first run.  But perhaps that's why I didn't make him lose.  (Sorry again to Larissa and Aaron for that.)  Dan, I wish you good luck. I'm considering composing a haiku for you.  (Because that's when you know you've made it.  Or maybe it means that I am truly slipping over the edge due to lack of sleep and nonstop exposure to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.)

I wish you all well tomorrow, even though I know this was taped in January.  When I had a pass to CES, but didn't realize that I might be able to see Larissa Kelly.  (I would have gone ape shit crazy fan too.  I like to think she would have looked at me with her eerie calm eyes and said go away.)

Jeopardy! Champion Style.

Internet, I could not be more pleased with the finalists in this year's Tournament of Champions. 

First, there is a gentleman named Dan Pawson.  I think he is part robot.  His expressions change little.  He is there to get it done.  He freaks me out a little.  But let's be honest, he never inspired a post before, unlike the other two finalists, Aaron Schroeder and my beloved Larissa Kelly. 

It seems that a lot of people think Larissa Kelly is sexy because I keep getting google searches for it.  And people want to know if Aaron Schroeder is gay.  In fact, one person was looking for gay porn with the Jeopardy! champ who is a graduate student in San Diego.  While I agree that Larissa works that sultry smart librarian thing, I do not know anything about Aaron Schroeder's sexual preferences, so I cannot help you. 

Of course, it is no surprise that I want Larissa to win.  She knows everything and she is still so freaky calm.  To the guys, I like you, but I want Larissa to kick your ass.  Good luck Larissa Kelly!  May you win almost a half a million dollars from the show that has the most annoying host on earth!

Finally, I am getting over the addiction

It seems that I no longer need celebrity gossip because I have discovered facebook.

Dancing with the Stars: The Finale

Meh.  Just meh. 

I wanted Lancy and Lacey to win due to my sheer dedication to Lacey after watching her on So You Think You Can Dance.  Brooke won, as she should, because she was the best.  I personally think the costumers who were able to keep her ladies from popping out in some of those costumes is the unsung hero of this season. 

There are two questions that have come up:

1.  If I liked the song that Miley Cyrus performed, what would that say about me?

2.  Did pro Kym Johnson get, um, augmented in between seasons??

This is almost historic

During our most recent trip to our old nail salon, both Laura and I experienced bloodshed.  We decided it was best that we change salons.  Perhaps to one that wouldn't make us bleed.  So, we went to a new spot yesterday.

Last week, during a trip to Ulta, I picked up the cool new OPI colors from the Christmas collection.  I veered slightly from my usual and got some colors that had a hint of pink instead of just red. 

During yesterday's pedicure, I tried Don't Toy With Me.  It is best described as a dark raspberry with intense sparkles.  I love it.  I will be sporting this shade to our first Hello Stiletto shoe party on Thursday night. 

More on the object of my hatred

Samantha Harris looks like she is wearing a curtain with a belt.  And who in the hell is doing her hair this season?  They need to stop it.  She is supposed to be well dressed and well jeweled and not well spoken.  That's now this works.

Season Seven: Dancing with the Stars

Oh, dear readers, it's time we just talk about this even though the pain is oh so fresh and still stings.

Last week, the most important email of my life appeared.  Yes, my patient wait on the live studio audience waiting list had finally been rewarded and the opportunity was there to attend a live taping of DWTS.  after coordinating our schedules, the Boy and I went with Monday.  The freaking premiere. 

We drove for four hours to get there.  Had lunch.  Got in line.  Shortly after, our dreams were shattered and we were advised that we were too far back in the line and the VIP list was too long and we weren't getting in.  that's right, four hours of driving from Vegas to LA and we didn't get in.  There was much disappointment and sadness.  We were guaranteed that if we want tickets for another Monday, we can get them.  But that is another very long commitment.  We'll see if it happens and schedules can be coordinated.

So we drove home and that took 4.5 hours.  yippee.  We watched the show and I cursed excessively at the bitches sitting in MY SEAT.  I won't boycott because they hurt me ever so deeply.  But they did.  Now I have dancing with the sunburn from standing in line.

Anyway.  Enough of my tale of woe.  Here are my thoughts on Season Seven.

Kim Kardashian, IF YOU HAVE A SEX TAPE THAT HAS BEEN RELEASED ON THE INTERNET AND YOU HAVE BEEN IN PLAYBOY, YOU ARE NOT SHY AND TIMID.  You are just a bad dancer with no claim to fame.  America, please vote her off the show.  I do not like having to address with my father why she is famous.  I should not have to discuss the sex tape with him. 

Cloris Leachman - dude, you are my mommom's age.  While her cleavage may rival yours, you scare the shit out of me.  I suspect that you felt up Samantha Harris after you were interviewed tonight.  I still hate Samantha Harris, but I hope she clocked you.

Rocco - I keep forgetting you are on the show because you are boring.

I wish Jefferson Darcy stayed longer and that the tramp had been eliminated. 

There are a bunch of people in the middle that I don't much care about.  They will be eliminated slowly but surely.  So, let's end on a positive note and speak of my favorites.

First, Brooke Burke, her amazing rack and the Mormon boy that Shannon Elizabeth ruined last season.  Brooke, you rock.  You were a bit of a surprise because the models often suck.  You are my second favorite.  Simply because you are not dancing with Lacey.  If it came to sheer skill, you'd be my favorite.

Second, Lance and Lacey.  I adored Lacey when she was on So You Think You Can Dance (and her appearance as a pro this season better mean that they are hard core recruiting Chelsea Hightower for next season).  I like her little renegade style.  I like that they did a freaking quick step to The Cure.  I like Lance and he does a fine job.  Although, um, who freaking cares if he is one of the gays.  Why are they making it such a big deal?  Um, Bruno is gay.  So, there's been a big ole gay all along.  But now it's a big damn deal.  Whatever.  Clay stole his thunder anyway.

Those are my two choices for the finals.  Brooke and Lance.  Really, Brooke and Lacey.

Now, another question (and not to seem like I'm commenting a lot on their racks, but they are on display, so how can one not notice), are Kym's bosoms looking augmented this season?  Amanda and I have had more than one conversation in the past about how lovely and perfect Kym's chest is, but they are looking quite a bit bigger this season.  Thoughts?

Jonathan Burkin, Baton Twirling Guy, Was Robbed

Dear Piers and Hoff,

We just watched the results show of the folks going into the finals on your little show America's Got Talent. 

ARE YOU EFFING KIDDING ME????

Jonathan Burkin, the boy who twirls fire, is what Vegas needs.  And I'm telling you this as a Vegas resident.  The thing we don't need is one more young boy with a waxed chest impersonating Elvis.  You are both idiots.  Sharon made the right choice.  Hoff messed it up. 

Hoff, while we're talking, you need to button your shirt and stop wearing such large pendants.  It's very weird. 

But back to Jonathan Burkin, the greatest baton twirler in the world.  As a wee girl, I attempted to twirl the baton.  That shit is hard.  I was NOT good at it.  This man twirls three batons WITH FIRE.  And you put through the stupid ass kid with no major talent.  Impersonating someone else is NOT what vegas needs more of.  We need the damn baton kid.  I'd pay to see the baton kid. 

I hate you people.  If those violin kids don't win this whole thing, I will be so incredibly hostile and pissed. 

With hate,
Danielle

90210

Okay, after reading some of the reviews, I intended to delete 90210 from the DVR and not watch it.  But tonight, I gave into temptation.  I don't know how to say this, so I will be blunt:  I freaking loved this show. 

No, seriously.  It was not the 90210 of my glory days, that's for damn sure.  But I liked Annie far more than I ever liked Brenda.  Mean girl is good at being mean girl.  (And I'm pretty sure she was on Cold Case recently.)  Dylan McKay guy with the jet was good.  Sassy black brandon was good. 

The story line that I saw no need for was the child given up for adoption oh so long ago.  I just don't remember drama and scandal involving the Walsh parents, but perhaps that is just my failing memory.

I am going to continue watching this show.  Most likely in secret, when no one else is around.  I dare say that I like it better than Gossip Girl, which I occasionally watch in secret. 

Big Daddy's House: More on Aaron McCargo, Jr.

I want to eat the things he makes on this show.  Most of the time.  The Boy, on the other hand, really REALLY wants to be invited to Big Daddy's House for dinner. 

I am particularly fond of some of the whiskey tango ingredients that Aaron uses.  So far, we've seen crushed up doritos, velveeta and ritz crackers.  He's also used soda on something, which is a technique that we love in South Jersey.  I love it.  Those are ingredients that I know and love.

Big Daddy's House: Aaron McCargo, Next Food Network Star

As I've stated, I wanted Lisa Garza (and her perfect blue dress and giant clear orb necklace) to win.  I liked Aaron; I simply liked Lisa Garza more.  Today, Aaron's show, Big Daddy's House, premiered.  We watched it and I was not displeased.

I will definitely keep watching.  Honestly, I really really wanted to eat everything that he made.  Chicken tenders coated in doritos is very appealing to my five year old palette.  The oven baked fries looked heavenly and remind me of the delightful potatoes that I make.  (That probably have very little flavor compared to what Aaron made.) 

I will keep watching his show.  I'm sure that we will hear from Lisa Garza again (b/c if she doesn't get a regular tv job out of that show, then things aren't right with the world). 

The Dark Knight

We saw the Dark Knight at Red Rock Imax theater on Friday.  Holy crap, Batman!  LOVED it. 

I don't think it is a secret - I like action movies and I am not that hard to please when it comes to movies.

The Boy, on the other hand, still swears that he hates Little Miss Sunshine and our friend Amanda was with him in the theater when he saw it and he was laughing his butt off the entire time.  So, clearly, not as easy to please.  So, more important than my review - The Boy liked it too.

I liked Maggie G. as the replacement for Kate Cruise and her weird crooked mouth.  Christian Bale is always great.  Morgan Freeman is my favorite in this series. 

So what to say about Heath Ledger...  I have always been a fan and thought he was GREAT in Brokeback Mountain.  I was completely captivated by his performance as The Joker.  He managed to erase my memories of Jack Nicholson in the role.  He became that role and elevated it.  He is a damn scary clown.  One of the most memorable performances I've seen in a long time.

All in all, GO SEE IT. 

The Next Food Network Star - It should have been Lisa Garza

Well, the Next Food Network Star finale was tonight.  I'm happy for Aaron McCargo Jr.  I really really wanted to eat the meal he made for his pilot.  But I liked Lisa Garza so much more than him.  She seems completely type a, which I can appreciate.  She is lovely and omg, I want that blue dress she wore on the next to last episode.  I am certain I would watch every one of her shows.  I will watch Aaron's show, but with a heavy sigh. 

To their credit, I liked all three finalists and thought they would be fine.  But Lisa Garza stood out.  I want the Food Network to pick up Beautiful Basics.  And then I want Lisa Garza to come to Vegas and pose for Vegas in Heels because I know that woman has some sweet shoes in her closet.  And then I want to sit there and brainstorm with her because she seems crazy creative. 

Congrats to the Camden boy!  You make south jersey proud.  Sorry that I always root for the girl with the bob.  I bet she likes I'm Not Really A Waitress.  Lisa Garza, will you be my bff?

Cat Deeley

Cat, your dress is beautiful, but are those sequined wings in your hair?

So You Think You Can Dance (again)

Comfort and Twitch got my vote tonight after that amazing hip hop routine.  The Boy asked what I thought and I said that they brought me joy and it was like they were doing their thing and loving it.  The jooges echoed that, especially Nigel.  It made me forgive their not so smooth waltz.

Please note that Katee and Will deserve special praise for their amazing pas de deux.  I mean, holy crap.  But, I knew they had it in them.  They should be in the final four.

Speaking of which, my two that I think are ready to go home this week:  Kerrington and Mark.

My top four:  Will, Katee, Chelsea and Joshua.  (But I also love Twitch and Gev and I adore when they get the chance to do solo routines.)

Sorry, Aaron Schroeder!

See, I should have known.  I mentioned Jeopardy! champ Aaron Schroeder yesterday and he lost today.  This happened to Larissa Kelly too.  I feel bad, like I am the kiss of death to all great Jeopardy champs. 

Aaron Schroeder, you were a gracious and kind Jeopardy champ!  I assume we will see you back on the Tournament of Champions.  At that time, I hope Larissa Kelly kicks your ass, but please give her a run for her money.  I am quite certain she would never bet $400 on a daily double.  Something for you to consider...

Aaron Schroeder, Jeopardy! Champ

Over the past five episodes, Aaron Schroeder has done quite well for himself on Jeopardy.  He has amassed a tiny fortune.  He is super polite to Alex Tray-beck (not as annoying as Samantha Harris, but I do not like his attempts at banter) and apologizes whenever he interrupts him.  He also acted sweet as sugar and shook hands and said great game to the other players.

Here's the thing - he beat my beloved Larissa Kelly's sister and I am okay with it.  (She was not as eerily calm as Larissa and that was one of my favorite things about Larissa.) 

We decided that Aaron knows everything about everything and we like him as a champ.  Good luck on days to come.  (hopefully this won't be the kiss of death for him because Larissa lost on the first night that I decided to blog about her.) 

Cat Deeley

Every week, I dutifully watch So You Think You Can Dance.  Every week, I am alarmed by Cat Deeley for an array of reasons.  First, Jooges.  Second, no one has legs that long.  They are taller than me.

But the key is her wardrobe.  She is typically in costume.  In the past four episodes, she has dressed as the following:

• A flapper
• An African Queen
• One of my Barbies from the 80s
• Donna Summer

I wish she would stop it.  Last season, I remember her being a fairy and a ballerina.  She is not four and it is not Halloween. 

Just so I do not seem entirely critical, I like her as a host.  I don't scream my hatred of her every time she speaks like I do with Samantha Harris.  My finger is not poised on the mute button like it is every time that Mary Murphy screams.  (Speaking of Mary Murphy, why is she always dressed like a retired figure skater who is playing in her old costumes.) 

Straight From Philly Steakout

The Boy swore to me that this place was so good and so authentic.  I suggested we go before seeing WALL-E.  I was going to be non-judgmental and try their food.  When we walked in, there was a sign saying that they use Amoroso bread.  That's a good start. 

I ordered a mushroom cheesesteak.  Um, no.  I received a soggy pile of goo.  The Wiz was on top of the meat and had solidified into a hard goo.  The roll was tasted like it had been frozen and thawed.  (Please note that it is still the best bread I've tasted in Vegas.)  The water from the mushrooms had oozed and made things a disgusting soggy mess.  I was not happy. 

The fries were good.

I think this was to prep me for just how good the real thing will taste when I am in Philly next week. Wiz on top of the meat.  Nonsense.

I'm going to eat jamaican food, hoagies and cheesesteaks for a week.  NONSTOP.  I figure I'll have a heart attack before we come home.

WALL-E

As everyone knows, I'm a big fan of the animated film.  This one is top-notch.  I applaud its subtle message of environmentalism.  I applaud the precious robots.  Highly recommended.

Completely Obsessed: Napoleon & Tabitha

Well, it's a new season of so you think you can dance.  My new obsession (along with the actual contestants, particularly Chelsie/Mark and Katie/Joshua) is Napoleon & Tabitha.  LOVED their routine to Bleeding Love tonight. 

Tonight was one of those nights where I really like TV.

Sex and the City

Absolutely loved it.  I want the shoes.  All of them.

This just cured all of my life's problems. CURED.

I was keeping up to date on the riveting world of celebrity gossip and I saw this on Perez.  Holy crap, you have got to watch this.  The entire routine is DAZZLING.  I am speechless. 

Technically, this is a review from The Boy

I love The Wheel.  Everyone knows I love the Wheel.  I intend to kick Kat Murello's ass on the Wheel someday. 

We watch the Wheel every night.  Every night, The Boy remarks that he hates the tiny bonus round wheel.  He finds it creepy and says it is a little midget wheel. 

When I asked him just now to describe why he hates the wheel, he said "It's just creepy.  It's a stub.  It makes a high pitched sound.  I don't like that the contestant has to pick up a card and hand it to Pat.  It's just dumb."

I get that I hate seeds and that's weird, but the tiny wheel?  That's odd.

Jeopardy: The Aftermath of Larissa Kelly

Tonight just wasn't the same.  The woman who won was smart and did a fine job, but she lacked the endearing qualities of Larissa Kelly.  I think even Alex Trebek missed her today.  When is the damn tournament of champions on?

Lost

I haven't posted regarding my love for Lost in a while.  Please do not think it has faded.  It's stronger than ever.  This season has captivated me like no other.  I heart Benjamin Linus and there better be an emmy in that actor's future.

Review: Coupons

I've made it no secret that I am drowning in debt.  It's also no secret that I am absurdly anal and really like spreadsheets.  Therefore, it should be no surprise that I have a very detailed budget spreadsheet with numerous tabs for my debt and tracking tax deductible items. 

My budget was tight, but doing okay until the recent onslaught of medical expenses.  Because of the close timing to when we bought our new house, I saw all of my free money just float away.  Between the house and meds and supplements and doctor visits (none covered by insurance, remember), I've got about $60 free per month.  Fear not, the budget contains allocations for pedicures and my overpriced hair, but it would be nice if the extra money could go toward things like paying down my credit cards.  I'm making more than the minimum each month, but when you've got as much as I do on credit cards, every extra $5 helps a little bit. 

Now, in the budget, I have $700 per month allocated to food expenses.  This includes lunches out during the work week, dining out, take out and groceries.  I think that's A LOT of money to spend on food but I thought it was realistic.  It seems that it wasn't.  I was spending between $800-$1,000 most months on food.  Dude, that's WAY TOO MUCH.  Every trip to Costco is insanely high.  Weekly groceries were escalating. 

First, we cut out eating out.  Now, it might be take out once a week and it is something relatively inexpensive.  Maybe wraps or something.  Quite simply, i am not cutting out lunches at work.  We go to very inexpensive places (like $6 or less most of the time) and I need the mental break.  It would cost me almost as much for frozen meals and treats throughout the day (because let's not pretend that a frozen meal will keep me energized for the entire stretch that I'm there). 

Next, I analyzed my grocery spending.  I was spending at least $150 per week.  Up to $250 some weeks.  Plus Costco trips on an almost monthly basis.  There are four people in this house on weekends.  Two during the week.  That much money is ridiculous.  So I started analyzing how I can cut this number considerably. 

I saw a Food Network segment on the lady who invented The Grocery Game.  I, of course, became intrigued.  I haven't joined her website yet, but I'm attempting to use coupons and careful study of the sales ads.  Here's what I've found.

Internet coupons are good.  The Smith's where we have been shopping doesn't take internet coupons.  Albertson's does.  But Smith's still has better sales deals on some items.  So, now I'm going experimenting with visiting two grocery stores per week.  The Albertson's visit was mentioned in the last post.  There weren't many items on the list, and I didn't realize that it would kick my ass with this illness.  But it is done.  I saved a ton of money buying a few things in bulk. 

The Boy eats frozen meals at lunch a lot.  Due to careful study of their weekly ad, I found Healthy Choice Paninis (which he likes) on sale, 8 for $20.  But I also had an internet coupon to take $1 off the purchase of any two.  So I got them for $2 each because I printed four of the internet coupons.  Saved almost $12 off the regular price.  Not bad.  In fact, the only thing I didn't buy on sale was honey, but I needed it for my tea. 

Coupons are good.  Although I hate spending a ton of time studying the ads, it is going to be worth it if I can $100-200 per month on groceries and then put that toward my credit card balances. 

I Love The Cure like I'm in High School

VH1 Classic is playing great episodes of Unplugged tonight.  The Boy was in heaven because they showed Nirvana and Alice In Chains.  Now, it's The Cure and I'm in heaven.  Awesome awesome awesome.

I went shopping today, so you have to deal with a few of these...

Why is the food at Whole Foods so much better than my local grocery store?  It is assloads more expensive, but it is sooooooo much better.  Due to the price, I don't go there frequently.  Quite simply can't afford a grocery bill like that each week.  But I stopped by today on my way home and made my typical $10 salad from the salad bar.  Even their sushi is great.  The Boy said the salmon was delightful. 

Why?  And don't give me some speech about it being organic.  I don't think that would make it this much better.  I think Smith's just gets crap.  That's probably the answer.

West Elm Is the Devil

I went to Henderson to return some stuff today.  While in Henderson, I stopped at the one and only West Elm in the Vegas area.  I bought a coffee table and a shelf unit there a couple of months ago and they wooed me into opening their store card so that I could get design dollars.  Since my design dollars were set to expire at the end of January, I needed to spend them.

That was done in approximately four seconds.  Then I took stuff up to pay.  Near where they put the sale stuff.  Crap.  I bought a ton of office crap.  It's a light blue leathery look.  But it was all so cheap that I just kept piling it up.  Ended up being not so cheap.  But the office will look fantastic when we move.  FANTASTIC. 

Summary:  I'll get more design dollars and then I'll go back and repeat the cycle.  West Elm = enablers.

Something different about which I care deeply

My love of Dancing with the Stars is no secret.  This evening, we're trying something new.  Instead of simply writing afterward about how much I hate Samantha Harris, I'm going to live blog my many insightful remarks.  This will be replete with spoilers.

The Boy:  Who did I vote for incessantly?
Me:  Jennie.  [But you love Mel B.]

The Boy:  It always makes me sad when we get down to the end.  Many many months without this tasty tasty treat.

Did Marie cut her bangs?

The Boy:  I'm not talking to you anymore.
Me:  Whatever.

Avril Lavigne?  seriously???  I thought she was punk rock.  She has a pink stripe in her hair and wears black and white horizontal striped tights.  yick.  If they rumba to her shit, i'm going to be pissed.

I can't really comment on her performance because we have to fast forward it.  THE BOY WON'T FAST FORWARD IT.  Asshole. 

The Boy:  What?  At least they are playing real music for once.  [I don't think he's ever heard her.]  Actually, this sucks.  [fast forward]  There were guitars anyway.

Why do they still let Samantha Harris talk to the stars. 

The Boy:  She's an idiot.  Don't you think?
Me:  [um yeah.  I blog almost weekly about how much I hate her.]
The Boy:  She's so bad at what she does.  Don't you think?
Me:  [I hate her more than anyone else on TV.  I hate her more than Dave Matthews.  I'd rather listen to Dave Matthews for six days straight than hear her for one more week.]

The Boy:  [pointing to the last line] I don't believe that by the way. 

MARIE AND JONATHAN?  IF THEY ELIMINATE THE SMILING BOY, THEN I'M GOING TO BE PISSED. 

The Boy:  Jennie just shit herself.

Me:  Irish dancing freaks me out a little.
The Boy:  It's rather unnerving.
... [sitting mesmerized...]

Watching my beloved Sabrina dance...  very painful.  She is supposed to be winning.  This should be their finale.  Their free dance.  Have i mentioned that we have third row tickets to the Live show?  and she's going to be there.  The Boy is going to throw his panties.

Avril Lavigne, that was a patronizing little clap.  They are bigger stars than you can ever dream to be. 

Mel and Maks.  Okay.  That's fine. 

Jennie and Derek.  That's fine too.  It should be Marie.  But the semi-final is as far as 90210 alums are allowed to get, i guess.  sigh.

Kramer vs. Kramer

It's legal movie time in the Netflix queue.  Last weekend's option was The Paper Chase.  Perhaps it was good at the time, but I didn't like it and I didn't see why the Professor was as bad as history has made him out to be. 

Tonight, it was Kramer vs. Kramer, after a particularly draining day.  Wow.  That one stood the test of time.  Beautifully acted.  Dustin Hoffman's performance was ... gut-wrenching. 

America, You Were So Wrong!

Never have I been so disturbed by the results show on DWTS.  It's as if they are trying to teach America a lesson.  She was supposed to win it all.  She was my favorite.  MY FAVORITE. 

Now, each week, I will not hear The Boy ask what a Cheetah Girl is.  This saddens me. 

I am now going to vote my little heart out each week.  I believe my support is now with the Spice Girl or the race car driver.

A long, but worthwhile wait

Dear Dancing with the Stars,

1.  I have missed you so much.  Thank you so much.  I've watched so many episodes of What Not To Wear that I walk around saying things like "bonjour tushie."  And, I mean, I love Stacy and Clinton, but I need variety.

2.  I still hate Samantha Harris, so imagine my delight when she gave birth and her newborn requires care.  and OMG, Drew Lachey was the best surprise ever.  I hope they keep him. 

3.  I voted for Jane Seymour.  That Cheetah Girl was super good, but Jane Seymour wowed me.  She was outstanding. 

4.  Wayne Newton is the most spray tanned, orange man on earth.  I am scared to see him tomorrow. 

Movie Review: The Simpsons

I've been a total slacker lately about movie reviews.  I'll get them updated eventually.  But I feel the need to state that I do frequently like the movies I go to see.  So, I am not one of those hard to please people. 

But...  I didn't really like this movie.  I've loved The Simpsons for many years and continued to watch it after everyone said it sucked.  Was totally excited for this movie...

But...  it was like watching one of the mediocre episodes that wouldn't end.  It didn't seem as bold and daring, even though it was clearly trying to be (with the much talked about nude scene, and some giving the finger, etc.).  It just felt long. 

Not to say that there weren't funny scenes.  I did laugh a lot.  The scene with spidey-pig being my favorite.  But laughing a lot doesn't necessarily mean it is a great movie. 

This gets an overall rating of disappointing.

Movie Review: Knocked Up

I completely forgot to blog about since last week was so busy.  Saw Knocked Up on Monday night. 

Didn't like it.  Didn't think it was super funny like everyone else said.  Didn't find it endearing like the reviews said.  Thought it seemed super absurd and I wanted the exact opposite of the ending to happen. 

Annoying Grey's Anatomy girl was alright.  Guy from 40 year old virgin was alright.  It was alright.  But I would suggest to rent it on DVD when every other good movie is gone and you are moving onto the "average" movie terrain. 

Goodbye to the Sopranos

I seem to be the only person saying this, but I liked the ending.  Sneaky and well done.  Although for a brief moment, I thought the DVR had stopped recording.