I'm sure I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I get myself in trouble when I compare my life to others. If I just live my life, and do what I am able to do, and what makes me happy, then I'm fine.
My brother in law has a very successful career, and has been able to provide for his family in ways that my mother as a single parent for most of my life never could. Growing up, though, I never felt like my life was lacking. I always got what I wanted for holidays and my birthdays, because my wish list was never extravagant. I never dreamed of or pined for extravagant vacations, or expensive clothes or jewelry. I don't drive, so that thrilling rite of passage for many teenagers - buying or receiving their first car - was not something I experienced.
My nieces have grown up very differently than my sister and I did. They lived in another country for awhile. They had a pool in their backyard for many years. My youngest niece's high school graduation gift was a trip to Europe.
It is May of 2017. Five months into the year. Already my sister and brother in law have been to Japan, Italy, and taken a driving trip to Delaware. My middle niece spent her Spring Break in Italy, and she just posted on Facebook that her parents bought her a new car. My youngest niece spent her junior spring semester abroad in Germany. She also visited several countries, including Italy and Switzerland. My oldest niece, married less than a year, bought a townhouse last month. In the late summer she and her husband will be traveling to Iceland. Her husband spent the weekend before his birthday climbing Mount Rainier in Washington state.
It is like culture shock when I visit my family. Everyone is talking about vacations and new cars and new houses. There is energy and vitality in the house; the feeling that everyone is happy and healthy and doesn't have to worry about money. I rarely have anything to talk about that can compete. My family talks loud and fast. They eat as fast as they talk, and then they leave me sitting at the dinner table by myself. They go for walks with the dogs and never consider finding a way to include me.
As much as I enjoy spending time with my girls, and know that they love me, it's hard sometimes, as our lives are so different. I'd like to see them more often, but I don't see myself moving back. I don't fit in my family. I am the financially much less stable, health-impaired, transportation-challenged, maiden aunt.
So I try very hard to focus on the good in my life, to be happy with what I have. I am grateful that I can get up every day and go to a job that I enjoy, that I have enough money to pay my bills and buy things I want and need. I get excited when I find clothes I like that fit me, and that I'm paying for them with my own money. I am appreciative of the fact that I am mostly independent and can take care of myself. I am trying to be as healthy as possible so I can continue to care for myself. I don't have my own transportation and that is a big frustration and hindrance in my life, but I still get from place to place when I need to. My life could be better; there is room for improvement. But it is a good life. Better than some.
You can't allow others to label your life as successful or not successful. You have to define success on your own terms - and then achieve it.
librarianintx
Friday, May 26, 2017
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Survivor Game Changers Finale
Meh.
That's how I feel about the finale. That's how I feel about who won. The final episode was quite interesting - especially the historic tribal council where Cerie was eliminated because everyone else was protected by either the immunity necklace (Brad), hidden immunity idols (Tai, Aubrey and Troyzan) or by the legacy advantage (Sarah).
For me, there were so many contestants this season that I wanted to win - Tai, Malcolm, Ozzy, Zeke, JT, Caleb. None of them made it to the final Tribal Council. Troyzan did not deserve to be there, but that's nothing new. That is the strategy of this game - take people to the final Tribal Council who don't deserve to win.
I don't like when evil play is rewarded, although I don't think Sarah was nearly as evil as some players who have won. Although Brad isn't necessarily my favorite player, I like that he played a mostly nice game, and he won so many challenges. It's hard to believe that someone can win that many challenges and still lose the game. Of course, the way he treated Tai at the end made me not want to root for him. But I loved his sincere apology during the reunion show. And to be fair, Tai did screw up at the end. But I hated the way Brad demeaned and pretty much bullied Tai during the final four. So I didn't really want any of the final three to win, honestly.
I still love the show though. It doesn't get old for me. Probst can be a tool sometimes, but I know the show wouldn't be the same without him.
librarianintx
That's how I feel about the finale. That's how I feel about who won. The final episode was quite interesting - especially the historic tribal council where Cerie was eliminated because everyone else was protected by either the immunity necklace (Brad), hidden immunity idols (Tai, Aubrey and Troyzan) or by the legacy advantage (Sarah).
For me, there were so many contestants this season that I wanted to win - Tai, Malcolm, Ozzy, Zeke, JT, Caleb. None of them made it to the final Tribal Council. Troyzan did not deserve to be there, but that's nothing new. That is the strategy of this game - take people to the final Tribal Council who don't deserve to win.
I don't like when evil play is rewarded, although I don't think Sarah was nearly as evil as some players who have won. Although Brad isn't necessarily my favorite player, I like that he played a mostly nice game, and he won so many challenges. It's hard to believe that someone can win that many challenges and still lose the game. Of course, the way he treated Tai at the end made me not want to root for him. But I loved his sincere apology during the reunion show. And to be fair, Tai did screw up at the end. But I hated the way Brad demeaned and pretty much bullied Tai during the final four. So I didn't really want any of the final three to win, honestly.
I still love the show though. It doesn't get old for me. Probst can be a tool sometimes, but I know the show wouldn't be the same without him.
librarianintx
Dancing with the Stars: The Results
Thank goodness Rashad won!!
I am so thrilled for him, and absolutely over the moon happy for Emma! She has suffered through so many bad dancers; finally she gets a winner! There's hope for you yet, Keo!
It was a LOOONNNGGG finale - entertaining, yes, but too long in my opinion. There also weren't hardly any new routines. Some of the couples had the opportunity to dance their favorite routines again, but some of the contestants who were ousted early didn't dance except for in group numbers, such as Chris Kattan, Mr. T, and Charo.
It was a travesty that Normani came in third. Really, America?
But it was nice to see how humble the top three contestants were. They are all wonderful celebrities and I think they're great role models. Normani could not have been more gracious about her third place finish.
It was a tough season because there were so many good dancers. I was so disappointed that great dancers like Heather Morris and Nancy Kerrigan were eliminated earlier than less deserving contestants like Nick Viall, Bonner Bolton, and David Ross. But when you have so many strong dancers in one season, some disappointment is inevitable. When you have five excellent contenders and only three spots in the finale, people are going to get left out. Even if the finale had been Simone, Rashad, and Normani, I would have still been sad and disappointed for Heather and Nancy.
So overall I enjoyed this season, even with the shocking and undeserving eliminations. Thanks for reading dance fans! See you in the fall! Congrats Rashad and Emma!
librarianintx
I am so thrilled for him, and absolutely over the moon happy for Emma! She has suffered through so many bad dancers; finally she gets a winner! There's hope for you yet, Keo!
It was a LOOONNNGGG finale - entertaining, yes, but too long in my opinion. There also weren't hardly any new routines. Some of the couples had the opportunity to dance their favorite routines again, but some of the contestants who were ousted early didn't dance except for in group numbers, such as Chris Kattan, Mr. T, and Charo.
It was a travesty that Normani came in third. Really, America?
But it was nice to see how humble the top three contestants were. They are all wonderful celebrities and I think they're great role models. Normani could not have been more gracious about her third place finish.
It was a tough season because there were so many good dancers. I was so disappointed that great dancers like Heather Morris and Nancy Kerrigan were eliminated earlier than less deserving contestants like Nick Viall, Bonner Bolton, and David Ross. But when you have so many strong dancers in one season, some disappointment is inevitable. When you have five excellent contenders and only three spots in the finale, people are going to get left out. Even if the finale had been Simone, Rashad, and Normani, I would have still been sad and disappointed for Heather and Nancy.
So overall I enjoyed this season, even with the shocking and undeserving eliminations. Thanks for reading dance fans! See you in the fall! Congrats Rashad and Emma!
librarianintx
Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Dancing with the Stars: The Finals!
It's the finale dance fans! Here we go!
Round One: Redemption Dances
David & Lindsay
Viennese Waltz
I'm honestly trying to find the positives in David's dancing, but I'm struggling. The routine did not have the sweeping flow and ease of a Viennese Waltz. David was trying so hard to prove himself that he rushed his movements. He was jerky and his frame wasn't great. Disappointing - as a dancer, not as a person.
Len: "Cinderella story - improvement, but not in the Viennese Waltz"
Julianne: "I saw the hard work - totally saw improvement - you are the fan's man"
Bruno: "You kept the glow and flow of the dance"
Carrie Ann: "You make the best connection"
Scores: 8, 8, 9, 8
My score: 8
Normani & Val
Quickstep
I remember her Quickstep from week one, and I thought it was good. But this dance showed what an excellent ballroom dancer she has become. It's weird though, when Heather danced in a jumpsuit I was so unnerved by the wardrobe choice, but I didn't feel that way with Normani. That was a very fast Quickstep; they flew all over that floor. The fog was distracting at the end, but overall it was a solid routine. It was interesting that Val showed more skin than Normani.
Julianne: "One of the most consistent couples - but some lack of body contact"
Bruno: "Smoking! That was fantastic!"
Carrie Ann: "fantastic, fierce, fabulous - You are the bomb!"
Len: He agreed with Julianne about the body contact, and felt it was too much running around.
Scores: 10, 9, 9, 10
My score: 9
Rashad & Emma
Viennese Waltz
I thought Rashad's frame was excellent, and his partnering skills were very good, although there may have been a slight hiccup toward the end of the routine. I don't think Emma's foot came up during that complicated turn, but if it did Carrie Ann will catch it. The end was hot, and Rashad did a little butt wiggle in the middle of the routine that got me going, but during a lot of the performance I felt he was concentrating too hard on his frame and the sexiness got sacrificed somewhat.
Bruno: "polished, majestic, smooth as silk - your footwork was unrecognizable"
Carrie Ann: "you have magic happening"
Len: "I saw improvement in every level of that dance"
Julianne: "I'm seeing the hard work you put in - We just saw your best"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 9
Round Two: Freestyle!
David & Lindsay
It was a very entertaining routine. I enjoyed the music. My favorite part was the dancing with the bats - especially his spin with Lindsay and the bat. That was unique, innovative, exciting, and well-executed. The performance played to David's strengths. It was fun to watch.
Len: "that was fantastic!"
Julianne: "that's what freestyle is about - entertaining"
Bruno: "We had our money's worth with you"
Carrie Ann: "You hit your personal best"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 9
Normani & Val
What an incredibly sweet and beautiful routine. This was not your typical freestyle, but it was the type of freestyle that Val seems to prefer. He doesn't tend to choreograph big production numbers with a floor full of dancers for the freestyle. Most of the routine was just the two of them, and the dancing was exquisite. Was it the best freestyle I've ever seen? No. But it was one of the most heartfelt. I really liked Normani wanting to include the next generation of dancers in the performance. Hi JT! :) Normani and Val graced us with an absolutely lovely dance.
Julianne: "absolutely breathtaking"
Bruno: "so inspirational, so achingly beautiful, like watching angels dancing"
Carrie Ann: "You are in a class by yourself - deep, dynamic, beautiful soul"
Len: "so emotional, so much beauty"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
Rashad & Emma
There it is!!
THAT was the freestyle I've been waiting for!
Holy cow!
Not to dismiss or demean Normani and Val's gorgeous simplicity. This dance had everything that I look for in a freestyle - awesome music, high energy, excellent lifts and tricks, fun, fun, fun! Rashad said it himself: this dance was all about his flavor. That natural charisma, musicality, and style that we witnessed in his first dance was evident in this routine, plus a lot of growth. I especially liked how safe the landings of the lifts and tricks were. I didn't feel nervous that someone was going to get hurt. He started the season with Bruno Mars, and he ended the season with Bruno Mars. Perfection. I loved every single second of this freestyle!
Bruno: "blown away - sensational - uptown, downtown, across America!"
Carrie Ann: "This is how you turn this mutha out!"
Len: "so good I could even put up with the music - You are the one with the momentum going into tomorrow night"
Julianne: "That is going in the books as an iconic freestyle" (I agree!)
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10 (a librarianintexas' Hall of Fame freestyle!)
Final thoughts:
Tomorrow is going to be tough. History dictates that the best freestyle usually results in the mirrorball trophy. If history holds, Rashad will be crowned king of the ballroom. Normani's freestyle was beautiful, but was it memorable enough, exciting enough, interesting enough to make people pick up the phone and vote for her? Yet, when you look at the season as a whole, I think Normani has the advantage. Overall I think her scores were higher, she received more praise from the judges, and less criticism, although at the same time I think she was in the bottom more than he was. As good as Rashad is, he was still dinged for his footwork as recently as last week. I adore them both, and I will be thrilled for the winner and sad for the second place finisher. I think they both are worthy winners. For me, this is a Rumor / Riker finish. It was very hard for me to choose between those two, and I keep going back and forth in my mind as well about Normani and Rashad.
"Normani should get it!"
"Rashad should win it!"
We'll see how it all plays out. I must add, if Simone had not been eliminated last week I think there would have been two Hall of Fame freestyles for me. I think she and Sasha would have performed a lift and trick masterpiece, and totally given Rashad a run for his money, at least when it came to the freestyle. I'm still very disappointed at being cheated out of a Simone and Sasha freestyle. I hope she gets to perform a fantastic number tomorrow night, like Snookie did on her season.
librarianintx
Round One: Redemption Dances
David & Lindsay
Viennese Waltz
I'm honestly trying to find the positives in David's dancing, but I'm struggling. The routine did not have the sweeping flow and ease of a Viennese Waltz. David was trying so hard to prove himself that he rushed his movements. He was jerky and his frame wasn't great. Disappointing - as a dancer, not as a person.
Len: "Cinderella story - improvement, but not in the Viennese Waltz"
Julianne: "I saw the hard work - totally saw improvement - you are the fan's man"
Bruno: "You kept the glow and flow of the dance"
Carrie Ann: "You make the best connection"
Scores: 8, 8, 9, 8
My score: 8
Normani & Val
Quickstep
I remember her Quickstep from week one, and I thought it was good. But this dance showed what an excellent ballroom dancer she has become. It's weird though, when Heather danced in a jumpsuit I was so unnerved by the wardrobe choice, but I didn't feel that way with Normani. That was a very fast Quickstep; they flew all over that floor. The fog was distracting at the end, but overall it was a solid routine. It was interesting that Val showed more skin than Normani.
Julianne: "One of the most consistent couples - but some lack of body contact"
Bruno: "Smoking! That was fantastic!"
Carrie Ann: "fantastic, fierce, fabulous - You are the bomb!"
Len: He agreed with Julianne about the body contact, and felt it was too much running around.
Scores: 10, 9, 9, 10
My score: 9
Rashad & Emma
Viennese Waltz
I thought Rashad's frame was excellent, and his partnering skills were very good, although there may have been a slight hiccup toward the end of the routine. I don't think Emma's foot came up during that complicated turn, but if it did Carrie Ann will catch it. The end was hot, and Rashad did a little butt wiggle in the middle of the routine that got me going, but during a lot of the performance I felt he was concentrating too hard on his frame and the sexiness got sacrificed somewhat.
Bruno: "polished, majestic, smooth as silk - your footwork was unrecognizable"
Carrie Ann: "you have magic happening"
Len: "I saw improvement in every level of that dance"
Julianne: "I'm seeing the hard work you put in - We just saw your best"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 9
Round Two: Freestyle!
David & Lindsay
It was a very entertaining routine. I enjoyed the music. My favorite part was the dancing with the bats - especially his spin with Lindsay and the bat. That was unique, innovative, exciting, and well-executed. The performance played to David's strengths. It was fun to watch.
Len: "that was fantastic!"
Julianne: "that's what freestyle is about - entertaining"
Bruno: "We had our money's worth with you"
Carrie Ann: "You hit your personal best"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 9
Normani & Val
What an incredibly sweet and beautiful routine. This was not your typical freestyle, but it was the type of freestyle that Val seems to prefer. He doesn't tend to choreograph big production numbers with a floor full of dancers for the freestyle. Most of the routine was just the two of them, and the dancing was exquisite. Was it the best freestyle I've ever seen? No. But it was one of the most heartfelt. I really liked Normani wanting to include the next generation of dancers in the performance. Hi JT! :) Normani and Val graced us with an absolutely lovely dance.
Julianne: "absolutely breathtaking"
Bruno: "so inspirational, so achingly beautiful, like watching angels dancing"
Carrie Ann: "You are in a class by yourself - deep, dynamic, beautiful soul"
Len: "so emotional, so much beauty"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
Rashad & Emma
There it is!!
THAT was the freestyle I've been waiting for!
Holy cow!
Not to dismiss or demean Normani and Val's gorgeous simplicity. This dance had everything that I look for in a freestyle - awesome music, high energy, excellent lifts and tricks, fun, fun, fun! Rashad said it himself: this dance was all about his flavor. That natural charisma, musicality, and style that we witnessed in his first dance was evident in this routine, plus a lot of growth. I especially liked how safe the landings of the lifts and tricks were. I didn't feel nervous that someone was going to get hurt. He started the season with Bruno Mars, and he ended the season with Bruno Mars. Perfection. I loved every single second of this freestyle!
Bruno: "blown away - sensational - uptown, downtown, across America!"
Carrie Ann: "This is how you turn this mutha out!"
Len: "so good I could even put up with the music - You are the one with the momentum going into tomorrow night"
Julianne: "That is going in the books as an iconic freestyle" (I agree!)
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10 (a librarianintexas' Hall of Fame freestyle!)
Final thoughts:
Tomorrow is going to be tough. History dictates that the best freestyle usually results in the mirrorball trophy. If history holds, Rashad will be crowned king of the ballroom. Normani's freestyle was beautiful, but was it memorable enough, exciting enough, interesting enough to make people pick up the phone and vote for her? Yet, when you look at the season as a whole, I think Normani has the advantage. Overall I think her scores were higher, she received more praise from the judges, and less criticism, although at the same time I think she was in the bottom more than he was. As good as Rashad is, he was still dinged for his footwork as recently as last week. I adore them both, and I will be thrilled for the winner and sad for the second place finisher. I think they both are worthy winners. For me, this is a Rumor / Riker finish. It was very hard for me to choose between those two, and I keep going back and forth in my mind as well about Normani and Rashad.
"Normani should get it!"
"Rashad should win it!"
We'll see how it all plays out. I must add, if Simone had not been eliminated last week I think there would have been two Hall of Fame freestyles for me. I think she and Sasha would have performed a lift and trick masterpiece, and totally given Rashad a run for his money, at least when it came to the freestyle. I'm still very disappointed at being cheated out of a Simone and Sasha freestyle. I hope she gets to perform a fantastic number tomorrow night, like Snookie did on her season.
librarianintx
Thursday, May 18, 2017
DWTS: The Semi-Finals Recap Part 2
Round Two: Personal stories
Normani & Val
Jazz
What a spunky, funky, sassy, jazzy routine! I loved it! I loved the churchy, revival feel of the music, I loved her purple dress, I loved her attitude and zest and her command of the dance floor. Normani is a star! Awesome! The end.
Len: "dash of Lindy Hop, loads of fun" (standing ovation)
Julianne: "You are an absolute star - that dance was a celebration through adversity"
Bruno: "That's how you do it in the Big Easy!"
Carrie Ann: "teamwork - I feel your power in everything you do"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
David & Lindsay
Tango
I know I sound like a broken record - he's not good enough, blah blah. But I do appreciate David's integrity, work ethic, and determination. He could phone it in. He could let Lindsay do all the work. Plenty of other contestants have done that. But David never has. He worked hard and became a success in baseball. He continues to do the best he can on Dancing with the Stars. At this stage of the game, I don't see him being able to improve. But I commend him for his commitment to the show and to his partner.
Julianne: "You are so meant to be here - you are the show"
Bruno: "You went for it - torpedo in a tuxedo" :)
Carrie Ann: "Your best dance - but there was a lift!"
Len: "no one has tried harder and worked harder"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 8
Simone & Sasha
Rumba
While there weren't the sparks and intense chemistry that I felt in Rashad & Emma's Rumba, I did feel a concerted effort on Simone's part to have more of a connection with Sasha and to express more sensuality and be more comfortable with the body contact that a successful Rumba requires. The technique was definitely there, and the feeling was too, even though it was more of a developing friendship than a passionate fire.
Bruno: "you let the dance flow out of you effortlessly"
Carrie Ann: "you danced with your soul tonight"
Len: "There was nothing I didn't like"
Julianne: "beautiful vulnerability"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
Rashad & Emma
Quickstep
The Quickstep is my least favorite ballroom style. It has often been the "kiss of death" on "So You Think You Can Dance." So when I heard that Rashad was given Quickstep I groaned a little.But he took that dance and quite literally ran with it! Holy cow, personality and charisma for days! The beginning was a little long, but it was so charming and endearing. And his Quickstep was fast, sharp, and his frame was great. Such a fun routine! I loved the music too - Yes he can! Yes he did! Touchdown!
Carrie Ann: "Oh my goodness! Match made in heaven"
Len: "lost your frame - too much positivity - It was good, but not great"
Julianne: "light on your feet"
Bruno: "charisma is out of this world"
Scores: My cable system had a hiccup and I didn't see the judges scores. I'm guessing he got a 9 from Len and a 10 from everyone else, but I don't know for sure.
My score: 10
And now we come to the elimination part of the show. We all know what happened. We all know how wrong it is that Simone got the boot. SO so so wrong. Yes, there was often just a little something missing from Simone's performances. But she can still dance circles around David. She deserves to be in the finals. He does not - from a dancing perspective. But evidently he is more popular than her. He got more votes than her. He has connected with the audience more. And that is what this show is about. It's not about dancing. It's about making the audience want to vote for you. David is the underdog. He is the non-dancer. This show celebrates non-dancers who become dancers. And to a certain extent David has become a dancer. There has been growth. But when I think about who could have been in the finals - Heather, Nancy, Simone - it makes me so disappointed. It could have been one of the best finals ever. Now its just so-so. It's two great dancers and one okay dancer. Which is often the case with a DWTS finale.When I think about the fact that we have likely been cheated out one of the best freestyles in the history of the show, I get even more upset. Given Simone and Sasha's athletic and gymnastic abilities, I think their freestyle would have rocked our world.
Sigh.
librarianintx
Normani & Val
Jazz
What a spunky, funky, sassy, jazzy routine! I loved it! I loved the churchy, revival feel of the music, I loved her purple dress, I loved her attitude and zest and her command of the dance floor. Normani is a star! Awesome! The end.
Len: "dash of Lindy Hop, loads of fun" (standing ovation)
Julianne: "You are an absolute star - that dance was a celebration through adversity"
Bruno: "That's how you do it in the Big Easy!"
Carrie Ann: "teamwork - I feel your power in everything you do"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
David & Lindsay
Tango
I know I sound like a broken record - he's not good enough, blah blah. But I do appreciate David's integrity, work ethic, and determination. He could phone it in. He could let Lindsay do all the work. Plenty of other contestants have done that. But David never has. He worked hard and became a success in baseball. He continues to do the best he can on Dancing with the Stars. At this stage of the game, I don't see him being able to improve. But I commend him for his commitment to the show and to his partner.
Julianne: "You are so meant to be here - you are the show"
Bruno: "You went for it - torpedo in a tuxedo" :)
Carrie Ann: "Your best dance - but there was a lift!"
Len: "no one has tried harder and worked harder"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 8
Simone & Sasha
Rumba
While there weren't the sparks and intense chemistry that I felt in Rashad & Emma's Rumba, I did feel a concerted effort on Simone's part to have more of a connection with Sasha and to express more sensuality and be more comfortable with the body contact that a successful Rumba requires. The technique was definitely there, and the feeling was too, even though it was more of a developing friendship than a passionate fire.
Bruno: "you let the dance flow out of you effortlessly"
Carrie Ann: "you danced with your soul tonight"
Len: "There was nothing I didn't like"
Julianne: "beautiful vulnerability"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
Rashad & Emma
Quickstep
The Quickstep is my least favorite ballroom style. It has often been the "kiss of death" on "So You Think You Can Dance." So when I heard that Rashad was given Quickstep I groaned a little.But he took that dance and quite literally ran with it! Holy cow, personality and charisma for days! The beginning was a little long, but it was so charming and endearing. And his Quickstep was fast, sharp, and his frame was great. Such a fun routine! I loved the music too - Yes he can! Yes he did! Touchdown!
Carrie Ann: "Oh my goodness! Match made in heaven"
Len: "lost your frame - too much positivity - It was good, but not great"
Julianne: "light on your feet"
Bruno: "charisma is out of this world"
Scores: My cable system had a hiccup and I didn't see the judges scores. I'm guessing he got a 9 from Len and a 10 from everyone else, but I don't know for sure.
My score: 10
And now we come to the elimination part of the show. We all know what happened. We all know how wrong it is that Simone got the boot. SO so so wrong. Yes, there was often just a little something missing from Simone's performances. But she can still dance circles around David. She deserves to be in the finals. He does not - from a dancing perspective. But evidently he is more popular than her. He got more votes than her. He has connected with the audience more. And that is what this show is about. It's not about dancing. It's about making the audience want to vote for you. David is the underdog. He is the non-dancer. This show celebrates non-dancers who become dancers. And to a certain extent David has become a dancer. There has been growth. But when I think about who could have been in the finals - Heather, Nancy, Simone - it makes me so disappointed. It could have been one of the best finals ever. Now its just so-so. It's two great dancers and one okay dancer. Which is often the case with a DWTS finale.When I think about the fact that we have likely been cheated out one of the best freestyles in the history of the show, I get even more upset. Given Simone and Sasha's athletic and gymnastic abilities, I think their freestyle would have rocked our world.
Sigh.
librarianintx
Tuesday, May 16, 2017
DWTS: The Semi-Finals Recap Part 1
It's the semi-finals, dance fans! Another DWTS season is almost over. 😢
Round One: Judges' Challenge
Normani & Val (Len)
Viennese Waltz
Normani always looks smokin' hot in red, so it's a very good move to put her in that color repeatedly. It was a very cool effect to have the routine in black and white with the only splash of color being that red dress. Quite striking. I also liked the rain effect at the end of the dance.
For me it was a rather different Viennese Waltz, but an excellent one. It was quicker, sharper, less fluid. This was not a romantic Viennese Waltz, but definitely very sexy. It was more of a push/pull, love/hate dance. Much of it was in hold, like Len wanted. I liked it a lot.
Len: "you did make me proud"
Julianne: "concept was beautiful, stunning, but I also saw a stumble"
Bruno: "thriller, killer waltz"
Carrie Ann: "I haven't seen you go wrong - the misstep was tiny"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 9 (I didn't see the mistake)
David & Lindsay (Julianne)
Foxtrot
In pretty much every season of Dancing with the Stars, there is someone who gets to the semi-finals that just isn't a strong enough dancer. Enough said. David was a little rushed and messy at times, and he still lacks musicality. But I did like the rise and fall at the beginning of the routine. The dance had charm and personality, but needed refinement. You still gotta love him, though.
Julianne: "you squeezed your lemons! (referring to his butt)" :)
Bruno: "joy to watch - you entertain us"
Carrie Ann: "you gave the judges what we want"
Len: "boy that brings joy"
Scores: 9, 8, 9, 8
My score: 8
Simone & Sasha (Carrie Ann)
Jive
YAAASSS!!!
There she is!!
THAT is the performance we've been waiting for!!
Super sexy outfit, sassy, fun, outgoing, smiling, PERSONALITY!! You did it, Simone! You worked it out! And it was a fast, exciting, content-filled Jive. Grrr to the extra dancers; they were unnecessary and cluttered the stage. I don't understand why they were there. Anyway, way to go Simone! You nailed it!!
Bruno: "little miss perfect is letting it loose!"
Carrie Ann: "warms my heart"
Len: "sharp, precise, personality came out"
Julianne: "embody that sassy character"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10 (well deserved!)
My score: 10
Rashad & Emma (Bruno)
Rumba
My chief complaint had nothing to do with the dance. The *bleep bleep* lights were blinding! I couldn't see parts of the routine. But what I did see was beautiful! Stunning lines, outstanding hip action, excellent partnering, sexiness and chemistry oozing out of every movement. Gorgeous. They are awesome. I'm so excited for both of them. I loved this dance. It was not a simple routine, but they made it look effortless.
Carrie Ann: "refinement...elegance...passionate and artistic"
Len: "I liked the light and shade, beautiful fluidity - tremendous dance talent"
Julianne: "You allowed Emma to express herself"
Bruno: "exceeding all expectation"
Scores: 9, 9, 10, 10
My score: 10
End of Round One
End of Part 1
Round One: Judges' Challenge
Normani & Val (Len)
Viennese Waltz
Normani always looks smokin' hot in red, so it's a very good move to put her in that color repeatedly. It was a very cool effect to have the routine in black and white with the only splash of color being that red dress. Quite striking. I also liked the rain effect at the end of the dance.
For me it was a rather different Viennese Waltz, but an excellent one. It was quicker, sharper, less fluid. This was not a romantic Viennese Waltz, but definitely very sexy. It was more of a push/pull, love/hate dance. Much of it was in hold, like Len wanted. I liked it a lot.
Len: "you did make me proud"
Julianne: "concept was beautiful, stunning, but I also saw a stumble"
Bruno: "thriller, killer waltz"
Carrie Ann: "I haven't seen you go wrong - the misstep was tiny"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 9 (I didn't see the mistake)
David & Lindsay (Julianne)
Foxtrot
In pretty much every season of Dancing with the Stars, there is someone who gets to the semi-finals that just isn't a strong enough dancer. Enough said. David was a little rushed and messy at times, and he still lacks musicality. But I did like the rise and fall at the beginning of the routine. The dance had charm and personality, but needed refinement. You still gotta love him, though.
Julianne: "you squeezed your lemons! (referring to his butt)" :)
Bruno: "joy to watch - you entertain us"
Carrie Ann: "you gave the judges what we want"
Len: "boy that brings joy"
Scores: 9, 8, 9, 8
My score: 8
Simone & Sasha (Carrie Ann)
Jive
YAAASSS!!!
There she is!!
THAT is the performance we've been waiting for!!
Super sexy outfit, sassy, fun, outgoing, smiling, PERSONALITY!! You did it, Simone! You worked it out! And it was a fast, exciting, content-filled Jive. Grrr to the extra dancers; they were unnecessary and cluttered the stage. I don't understand why they were there. Anyway, way to go Simone! You nailed it!!
Bruno: "little miss perfect is letting it loose!"
Carrie Ann: "warms my heart"
Len: "sharp, precise, personality came out"
Julianne: "embody that sassy character"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10 (well deserved!)
My score: 10
Rashad & Emma (Bruno)
Rumba
My chief complaint had nothing to do with the dance. The *bleep bleep* lights were blinding! I couldn't see parts of the routine. But what I did see was beautiful! Stunning lines, outstanding hip action, excellent partnering, sexiness and chemistry oozing out of every movement. Gorgeous. They are awesome. I'm so excited for both of them. I loved this dance. It was not a simple routine, but they made it look effortless.
Carrie Ann: "refinement...elegance...passionate and artistic"
Len: "I liked the light and shade, beautiful fluidity - tremendous dance talent"
Julianne: "You allowed Emma to express herself"
Bruno: "exceeding all expectation"
Scores: 9, 9, 10, 10
My score: 10
End of Round One
End of Part 1
Ending the sugar journal
After six entries (I think) I'm ending the sugar journal. I don't think there's a point to it anymore. Every week I cheat. Sometimes more, sometimes less. But I know I'm not going to go an entire week without sugar. I'm never going to give up sugar entirely.
I will say that this past long weekend was the worst four day time frame I've had in months when it comes to sugar. I was out of town, among family and friends, and I consumed chocolate chip cookies, a Sonic chocolate shake, apple juice, orange juice, a fruit bar, and a slice of cake made by my aunt who is known for her amazing cakes. Now that I'm home I'm trying to get back on track. But I know I will continue to have sugar stretches like that, especially when I'm out of town.
All I can do is do my best, stay away from sugar as much as I can, try to not to beat myself up when I give in to cravings, and hope that I'm doing enough to keep myself as healthy as possible.
librarianintx
I will say that this past long weekend was the worst four day time frame I've had in months when it comes to sugar. I was out of town, among family and friends, and I consumed chocolate chip cookies, a Sonic chocolate shake, apple juice, orange juice, a fruit bar, and a slice of cake made by my aunt who is known for her amazing cakes. Now that I'm home I'm trying to get back on track. But I know I will continue to have sugar stretches like that, especially when I'm out of town.
All I can do is do my best, stay away from sugar as much as I can, try to not to beat myself up when I give in to cravings, and hope that I'm doing enough to keep myself as healthy as possible.
librarianintx
Tuesday, May 09, 2017
DWTS Trios Nite Recap Part 2
Round Two: Trios (The judges choose the trios)
Rashad / Emma / Whitney
Argentine Tango
This was a cool remix of a Fleetwood Mac song - dark, erotic, and brooding. Rashad had his hands full with Emma and Whitney (literally!) but I think he coped very well. Lots of lifts, gancho kicks, spins, and I liked how they all ended up on the floor at the end. Sexy. I would very much like to be part of a Rashad trio. :) Hot summer night indeed. *wiggling eyebrows*
Len: "full of passion - but work on your footwork!"
Julianne: "loved the different dynamics"
Bruno: "erotic chain reaction - you handled two better than one!"
Carrie Ann: "your best dance"
Scores: 10, 9, 10, 10
My score: 9 (almost a 10!)
Normani / Val / Alan
Jive
How fun and sexy was that routine!? Holy cow - off the charts sexy!
What a dynamic performance - and Normani more than held her own against Val and Alan. Sexy doesn't even begin to describe that dance - few routines have showed that much skin. Family show? Okay. Two men with their shirts off, and the woman in a bra, daisy duke shorts, and boots - I LOVED every second of this routine, and I don't usually care for country-themed anything. The performance was fast and tight, then slow and loose, then fast again. Len didn't care for the part when Normani was dancing on the judges' table, but I did! Yee haw!!
That was HOT HOT HOT!
Dance of the night by a mile!
Julianne: "Normani owned the stage"
Bruno: "glorious all-American Jive" (okay, I expected more out of Bruno after that routine) :)
Carrie Ann: "You are an incredible actress"
Len: "loved the contrast from the first dance"
Scores: "10, 9, 10, 10" (Really, Len? C'mon!!)
My score: 10 (!!)
Bonner / Sharna / Britt
Jazz
Not as technically good or as fun or as sexy as the previous routine, not by a long shot, but I was entertained. Bonner looked like he was enjoying himself, which was nice to see after the rather dismal first performance. He actually had a little bounce going on. I liked the story line and the money flying around. It was a cute routine. Bonner got a little mojo back. Good for him.
Bruno: "Wolf of Wall Street"
Carrie Ann: "kind of raunchy - Bonner needed to pop more"
Len: "too raunchy"
Julianne: "America liked it"
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
My score: 8
Simone / Sasha/ Brittany
Paso Doble
Simone has looked beautiful in both routines tonight. She also looked fierce in this dance. It was a tight, sharp, action-packed performance. Visually stunning and technically excellent, but again, I didn't feel much connection or emotion in Simone, and I really need those to love a routine. If she hasn't learned to connect and emote yet, time might be running out for her.
Carrie Ann: "saw improvement in the emotion"
Len: "you have to lift your game up"
Bruno: "you lost some artistry"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 9
David / Lindsay / Hayley
Paso Doble
I loved the drama of the routine. I enjoyed the swelling of the music, and the effect of the girls' skirts floating down from above in the beginning. I appreciate David's commitment. He looked as fierce and tough as he possibly could. The routine was dramatic and exciting. David did his best to keep up with his partners.
Len: "it was rough"
Julianne: "you were committed to the character"
Bruno: "you looked like godzilla"
Carrie Ann: "plodding and clumsy"
Scores: 7, 7, 8, 7
My score: 7 (for David's technique. I would give the overall routine an 8)
End of Round Two.
Results:
I held my breath as Bonner & Sharna and Rashad & Emma were announced as the bottom two couples. Please don't let it be Rashad! That would be so unfair! Whew! Thank goodness the right couple was eliminated. You're a good guy, Bonner. Thanks for the steamy moments with Sharna.
librarianintx
Rashad / Emma / Whitney
Argentine Tango
This was a cool remix of a Fleetwood Mac song - dark, erotic, and brooding. Rashad had his hands full with Emma and Whitney (literally!) but I think he coped very well. Lots of lifts, gancho kicks, spins, and I liked how they all ended up on the floor at the end. Sexy. I would very much like to be part of a Rashad trio. :) Hot summer night indeed. *wiggling eyebrows*
Len: "full of passion - but work on your footwork!"
Julianne: "loved the different dynamics"
Bruno: "erotic chain reaction - you handled two better than one!"
Carrie Ann: "your best dance"
Scores: 10, 9, 10, 10
My score: 9 (almost a 10!)
Normani / Val / Alan
Jive
How fun and sexy was that routine!? Holy cow - off the charts sexy!
What a dynamic performance - and Normani more than held her own against Val and Alan. Sexy doesn't even begin to describe that dance - few routines have showed that much skin. Family show? Okay. Two men with their shirts off, and the woman in a bra, daisy duke shorts, and boots - I LOVED every second of this routine, and I don't usually care for country-themed anything. The performance was fast and tight, then slow and loose, then fast again. Len didn't care for the part when Normani was dancing on the judges' table, but I did! Yee haw!!
That was HOT HOT HOT!
Dance of the night by a mile!
Julianne: "Normani owned the stage"
Bruno: "glorious all-American Jive" (okay, I expected more out of Bruno after that routine) :)
Carrie Ann: "You are an incredible actress"
Len: "loved the contrast from the first dance"
Scores: "10, 9, 10, 10" (Really, Len? C'mon!!)
My score: 10 (!!)
Bonner / Sharna / Britt
Jazz
Not as technically good or as fun or as sexy as the previous routine, not by a long shot, but I was entertained. Bonner looked like he was enjoying himself, which was nice to see after the rather dismal first performance. He actually had a little bounce going on. I liked the story line and the money flying around. It was a cute routine. Bonner got a little mojo back. Good for him.
Bruno: "Wolf of Wall Street"
Carrie Ann: "kind of raunchy - Bonner needed to pop more"
Len: "too raunchy"
Julianne: "America liked it"
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
My score: 8
Simone / Sasha/ Brittany
Paso Doble
Simone has looked beautiful in both routines tonight. She also looked fierce in this dance. It was a tight, sharp, action-packed performance. Visually stunning and technically excellent, but again, I didn't feel much connection or emotion in Simone, and I really need those to love a routine. If she hasn't learned to connect and emote yet, time might be running out for her.
Carrie Ann: "saw improvement in the emotion"
Len: "you have to lift your game up"
Bruno: "you lost some artistry"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 9
David / Lindsay / Hayley
Paso Doble
I loved the drama of the routine. I enjoyed the swelling of the music, and the effect of the girls' skirts floating down from above in the beginning. I appreciate David's commitment. He looked as fierce and tough as he possibly could. The routine was dramatic and exciting. David did his best to keep up with his partners.
Len: "it was rough"
Julianne: "you were committed to the character"
Bruno: "you looked like godzilla"
Carrie Ann: "plodding and clumsy"
Scores: 7, 7, 8, 7
My score: 7 (for David's technique. I would give the overall routine an 8)
End of Round Two.
Results:
I held my breath as Bonner & Sharna and Rashad & Emma were announced as the bottom two couples. Please don't let it be Rashad! That would be so unfair! Whew! Thank goodness the right couple was eliminated. You're a good guy, Bonner. Thanks for the steamy moments with Sharna.
librarianintx
DWTS Trios Nite Recap Part 1
I still love the show, but I'm feeling kinda depressed. This has been such a strong season, but this is not the Top 5 that I want. The final five should have been Heather, Nancy, Normani, Simone, and Rashad.
Round One: Pro dancers pick the song
Rashad & Emma
Jive - "Shake Your Tail Feather"
Emma picked a very good song for Rashad's upbeat personality, energy, and musicality. He had good kicks and flicks. I like them throwing the twist in there too; the song really called for it. I also liked the concert-type atmosphere, but that made the stage too small. The trick at the end did add the wow fact they were looking for.
The camera work after the dance was terrible. What was going on?
Len: "you gotta work on your feet"
Julianne: "so fun!"
Bruno: "good choice Emma!"
Carrie Ann: "true entertainer"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 9
Normani & Val
Contemporary - "Freedom"
She is so amazing. That looked like a professional contemporary routine. Of course I preferred the parts where it was just Normani and Val on the dance floor. She was free then, not hemmed in by all the extra dancers. But that was part of the storyline, so I understand that. It was a powerful performance. The lifts were wonderful.
Julianne: "completely mesmerized - creating art and history"
Bruno: "Pulitzer Prize-winning performance - you are the embodiment of the spirit of Cora" (Underground Railroad)
Carrie Ann: "went to another level of healing"
Len: "I was spellbound"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
Bonner & Sharna
Argentine Tango - "Believer"
I don't know. It was just okay. There were a few moments where it felt like the routine was going well. But overall I felt like Bonner was hesitant and just not feeling it, which made me not feel it. It felt like he was going through the motions rather than dancing. Argentine Tango is a sexy, exciting dance, and usually I feel the chemistry between these two, but I didn't feel it in this routine. It didn't feel like he was in the mood at all. He looked stiff and clumsy and not in the game. Just felt off to me.
Bruno: "you made the most of what you had - but you didn't interpret the steps" (yes!)
Carrie Ann: "lacked connection" (definitely!)
Len: "too stiff"
Julianne: "use that frustration"
Scores: 8, 7, 8, 7
My score: 7
Simone & Sasha
Foxtrot - "What Makes You Beautiful"
Simone looked SO pretty in this dance, and everything about that routine was first rate - speed, flow of movement across the floor, frame, etc. And I did feel more of a connection between the two of them. Most of the dance was in hold, which can make her uncomfortable, but she looked relaxed and confident. However, while I thought the performance was solid and technically good, I didn't think it was stellar. It wasn't memorable.
Carrie Ann: "your skills are unquestionable, but I still don't know you"
Len: "nice mix, nice posture"
Julianne: "pretty dance, but no wow, just safe" (yes!)
Bruno: "you make it look easy - but need surprise"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9 (They all sounded disappointed as they were saying "9")
My score: 9
David & Lindsay
Waltz - "Humble and Kind"
It was such a sweet dance; their long hug at the end made me tear up. I love David. I love how hard he tries to do a good job and look like a dancer. He's an athlete; he has a strong work ethic. I think he's out of his league at this point in the competition, but I still enjoyed the performance for what it was. The technique wasn't there so much, but the feeling was, the connection was, the sweet simplicity of the dance. My favorite part was when Lindsay had her feet perched on David's - like when a little girl dances with her daddy. That was precious. There were a lot of moist eyes in the ballroom after that routine.
Len: "You attempted the correct footwork...understated...poignant...your best dance"
Julianne: "You are what this show is all about - one of the strongest partnerships"
Bruno: "best father-daughter dance"
Carrie Ann: "lady and the champ"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 8
End of Round One
Round One: Pro dancers pick the song
Rashad & Emma
Jive - "Shake Your Tail Feather"
Emma picked a very good song for Rashad's upbeat personality, energy, and musicality. He had good kicks and flicks. I like them throwing the twist in there too; the song really called for it. I also liked the concert-type atmosphere, but that made the stage too small. The trick at the end did add the wow fact they were looking for.
The camera work after the dance was terrible. What was going on?
Len: "you gotta work on your feet"
Julianne: "so fun!"
Bruno: "good choice Emma!"
Carrie Ann: "true entertainer"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 9
Normani & Val
Contemporary - "Freedom"
She is so amazing. That looked like a professional contemporary routine. Of course I preferred the parts where it was just Normani and Val on the dance floor. She was free then, not hemmed in by all the extra dancers. But that was part of the storyline, so I understand that. It was a powerful performance. The lifts were wonderful.
Julianne: "completely mesmerized - creating art and history"
Bruno: "Pulitzer Prize-winning performance - you are the embodiment of the spirit of Cora" (Underground Railroad)
Carrie Ann: "went to another level of healing"
Len: "I was spellbound"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
Bonner & Sharna
Argentine Tango - "Believer"
I don't know. It was just okay. There were a few moments where it felt like the routine was going well. But overall I felt like Bonner was hesitant and just not feeling it, which made me not feel it. It felt like he was going through the motions rather than dancing. Argentine Tango is a sexy, exciting dance, and usually I feel the chemistry between these two, but I didn't feel it in this routine. It didn't feel like he was in the mood at all. He looked stiff and clumsy and not in the game. Just felt off to me.
Bruno: "you made the most of what you had - but you didn't interpret the steps" (yes!)
Carrie Ann: "lacked connection" (definitely!)
Len: "too stiff"
Julianne: "use that frustration"
Scores: 8, 7, 8, 7
My score: 7
Simone & Sasha
Foxtrot - "What Makes You Beautiful"
Simone looked SO pretty in this dance, and everything about that routine was first rate - speed, flow of movement across the floor, frame, etc. And I did feel more of a connection between the two of them. Most of the dance was in hold, which can make her uncomfortable, but she looked relaxed and confident. However, while I thought the performance was solid and technically good, I didn't think it was stellar. It wasn't memorable.
Carrie Ann: "your skills are unquestionable, but I still don't know you"
Len: "nice mix, nice posture"
Julianne: "pretty dance, but no wow, just safe" (yes!)
Bruno: "you make it look easy - but need surprise"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9 (They all sounded disappointed as they were saying "9")
My score: 9
David & Lindsay
Waltz - "Humble and Kind"
It was such a sweet dance; their long hug at the end made me tear up. I love David. I love how hard he tries to do a good job and look like a dancer. He's an athlete; he has a strong work ethic. I think he's out of his league at this point in the competition, but I still enjoyed the performance for what it was. The technique wasn't there so much, but the feeling was, the connection was, the sweet simplicity of the dance. My favorite part was when Lindsay had her feet perched on David's - like when a little girl dances with her daddy. That was precious. There were a lot of moist eyes in the ballroom after that routine.
Len: "You attempted the correct footwork...understated...poignant...your best dance"
Julianne: "You are what this show is all about - one of the strongest partnerships"
Bruno: "best father-daughter dance"
Carrie Ann: "lady and the champ"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 8
End of Round One
Friday, May 05, 2017
Feeling blessed
This morning as I was on my way to work, I was feeling happy, and thinking about all the reasons why. Everything from I'm alive to see another day to the fact that I'm wearing new pink underwear and my favorite pink jacket. (giggle) It's Friday, I've it through another work week, and I have a weekend ahead where I have a variety of tasks that I want to accomplish and a few ideas of fun events to attend.
I am a person with a disability. I have multiple health conditions. I am luckier than many people with disabilities. I am still predominantly independent and self-sufficient. I can bathe, dress, and feed myself. I am able to work. I can even travel out of town to visit family and friends. Thanks to medications, medical equipment, past procedures, and a team of specialists, I am relatively healthy. I don't earn much money, but so far I make enough that I have a roof over my head, food to eat, clothes to wear, I can afford my medications, and I have a little left over to buy things I enjoy like books and music. I don't have the money to take vacations and spend extravagantly, but I'm okay with that. I am taking care of myself as best as I can - physically, emotionally, financially - and I am choosing to be happy with what I have.
But I am doing as well as I am in large part because of the government assistance I receive and the insurance I have through work. I am mobile and mostly independent, but I still need help, and that help comes in the form of a personal care assistant who comes three times a week, to help with aspects of daily living that are challenging for me: cooking, grocery shopping, laundry, housekeeping. I am able to get around the city thanks to the fact that I qualify for the para-transit transportation service that gets me to and from work, doctor appointments, the grocery store, etc. My health is as good as it is because I see several specialists throughout the year: pulmonologist, endocrinologist, cardiologist, etc. I use a machine at night that protects me from the respiratory insufficiency that I endured for years without knowing it was happening. That respiratory insufficiency could have ultimately resulted in early death for me. Because of that machine, I now have the stamina, energy, and focus to do and achieve in my forties what I was unable to accomplish in my twenties.
I am a born worrier. I constantly obsess about what will happen IF, and the list is long and daunting and frightening. Having Republicans in control of both the White House and Congress has only added to my anxiety and insecurity. Yesterday the House of Representatives passed a healthcare bill that spells doom to so many people with health conditions, especially those with financial instability. I am in that group of people. Again, I am luckier than some. For now at least. But my future is uncertain.
At this point, what I have to do for myself is stay positive, and take care of myself as best I can so I can remain as physically and financially independent as possible. So I smiled as I sat in the car on the way to work. I concentrated on the beautiful sunrise, my favorite butterfly ring, and my goal of a productive, satisfying, and happy day.
Hope keeps me going.
#iamapreexistingcondition
librarianintx
I am a person with a disability. I have multiple health conditions. I am luckier than many people with disabilities. I am still predominantly independent and self-sufficient. I can bathe, dress, and feed myself. I am able to work. I can even travel out of town to visit family and friends. Thanks to medications, medical equipment, past procedures, and a team of specialists, I am relatively healthy. I don't earn much money, but so far I make enough that I have a roof over my head, food to eat, clothes to wear, I can afford my medications, and I have a little left over to buy things I enjoy like books and music. I don't have the money to take vacations and spend extravagantly, but I'm okay with that. I am taking care of myself as best as I can - physically, emotionally, financially - and I am choosing to be happy with what I have.
But I am doing as well as I am in large part because of the government assistance I receive and the insurance I have through work. I am mobile and mostly independent, but I still need help, and that help comes in the form of a personal care assistant who comes three times a week, to help with aspects of daily living that are challenging for me: cooking, grocery shopping, laundry, housekeeping. I am able to get around the city thanks to the fact that I qualify for the para-transit transportation service that gets me to and from work, doctor appointments, the grocery store, etc. My health is as good as it is because I see several specialists throughout the year: pulmonologist, endocrinologist, cardiologist, etc. I use a machine at night that protects me from the respiratory insufficiency that I endured for years without knowing it was happening. That respiratory insufficiency could have ultimately resulted in early death for me. Because of that machine, I now have the stamina, energy, and focus to do and achieve in my forties what I was unable to accomplish in my twenties.
I am a born worrier. I constantly obsess about what will happen IF, and the list is long and daunting and frightening. Having Republicans in control of both the White House and Congress has only added to my anxiety and insecurity. Yesterday the House of Representatives passed a healthcare bill that spells doom to so many people with health conditions, especially those with financial instability. I am in that group of people. Again, I am luckier than some. For now at least. But my future is uncertain.
At this point, what I have to do for myself is stay positive, and take care of myself as best I can so I can remain as physically and financially independent as possible. So I smiled as I sat in the car on the way to work. I concentrated on the beautiful sunrise, my favorite butterfly ring, and my goal of a productive, satisfying, and happy day.
Hope keeps me going.
#iamapreexistingcondition
librarianintx
Wednesday, May 03, 2017
DWTS Hollywood / Movie Nite Recap Part 2
Round Two: The Dance Offs
Simone & Sasha versus Nancy & Artem
Cha Cha
I prefer the dance offs when the couples each have their own time on the floor, not when they are dancing side by side. They did take turns / trade off at times during the dance, but it felt like they didn't always know when it was their turn to step aside and let the other couple dance solo, so it felt awkward at times. I thought both couples did good routines, but overall Simone and Sasha were better. Simone looked remarkably comfortable with being sexy. I think her competitive drive came out against a fellow Olympic medalist. Simone looked like she wanted it more and went for it for more; I think Nancy felt a little intimidated and danced a little careful.
All the judges voted for Simone & Sasha, and America did too.
Rashad & Emma versus David & Lindsay
Jive
There was no real contest here; it wasn't a fair fight. Rashad has so much musicality. His bounce, kicks, and flicks were excellent. David gave it his best shot, but he just couldn't keep up. Still, he does have a sexy move or two in his repertoire. It wasn't a blowout, but Rashad was the clear winner.
All of the judges voted for Rashad & Emma, and America did too.
Bonner & Sharna versus Nick & Peta
Rumba
All I can say is that those ladies worked it for their men. They definitely shouldered the responsibility in those routines. The guys were ornaments. Which is pretty much what a guy is in a Rumba. He partners and shows off his woman. But one thing a man needs in a Rumba is hip action, and I didn't see much of that in either Bonner or Nick. Neither one did enough to earn my vote, in all honesty. I guess I'll give it to Nick since it looked like Bonner almost spun Sharna into the other lane and nearly made her fall as well.
The judges fawned over both of them, however. Were we watching the same dances? I'm scratching my head.
Carrie Ann, Len, and Mandy voted for Bonner and Sharna. Bruno gave it to Nick & Peta. The audience sided with the first three judges.
End of Round Two
Elimination:
It was a double elimination, and I am so sad that Nancy & Artem were booted. Sad and angry. She did NOT deserve to be eliminated. I like Nick, but it was his time. It wasn't Nancy's time. I figured I would be disappointed in who went home. All of the men except Rashad deserved to go home, but I didn't think it would be two men who were sent packing. I think David is an awesome person; I adore his personality. I also have respect for Bonner. But neither one of them deserve to be in the competition over Nancy. Still, I've said it before and I'll say it again: Dancing with the Stars is NOT a dance competition. It is a popularity contest. David has his teammates and a lot of Cubs fans voting for him. Bonner's chemistry with Sharna, plus Sharna's popularity on the show has garnered him a lot of votes as well. Nancy is reserved, comes across as slightly aloof, and she struggled with insecurity during the competition. She is a beautiful skater and now she is a beautiful dancer. I wanted her to go further.
librarianintx
Simone & Sasha versus Nancy & Artem
Cha Cha
I prefer the dance offs when the couples each have their own time on the floor, not when they are dancing side by side. They did take turns / trade off at times during the dance, but it felt like they didn't always know when it was their turn to step aside and let the other couple dance solo, so it felt awkward at times. I thought both couples did good routines, but overall Simone and Sasha were better. Simone looked remarkably comfortable with being sexy. I think her competitive drive came out against a fellow Olympic medalist. Simone looked like she wanted it more and went for it for more; I think Nancy felt a little intimidated and danced a little careful.
All the judges voted for Simone & Sasha, and America did too.
Rashad & Emma versus David & Lindsay
Jive
There was no real contest here; it wasn't a fair fight. Rashad has so much musicality. His bounce, kicks, and flicks were excellent. David gave it his best shot, but he just couldn't keep up. Still, he does have a sexy move or two in his repertoire. It wasn't a blowout, but Rashad was the clear winner.
All of the judges voted for Rashad & Emma, and America did too.
Bonner & Sharna versus Nick & Peta
Rumba
All I can say is that those ladies worked it for their men. They definitely shouldered the responsibility in those routines. The guys were ornaments. Which is pretty much what a guy is in a Rumba. He partners and shows off his woman. But one thing a man needs in a Rumba is hip action, and I didn't see much of that in either Bonner or Nick. Neither one did enough to earn my vote, in all honesty. I guess I'll give it to Nick since it looked like Bonner almost spun Sharna into the other lane and nearly made her fall as well.
The judges fawned over both of them, however. Were we watching the same dances? I'm scratching my head.
Carrie Ann, Len, and Mandy voted for Bonner and Sharna. Bruno gave it to Nick & Peta. The audience sided with the first three judges.
End of Round Two
Elimination:
It was a double elimination, and I am so sad that Nancy & Artem were booted. Sad and angry. She did NOT deserve to be eliminated. I like Nick, but it was his time. It wasn't Nancy's time. I figured I would be disappointed in who went home. All of the men except Rashad deserved to go home, but I didn't think it would be two men who were sent packing. I think David is an awesome person; I adore his personality. I also have respect for Bonner. But neither one of them deserve to be in the competition over Nancy. Still, I've said it before and I'll say it again: Dancing with the Stars is NOT a dance competition. It is a popularity contest. David has his teammates and a lot of Cubs fans voting for him. Bonner's chemistry with Sharna, plus Sharna's popularity on the show has garnered him a lot of votes as well. Nancy is reserved, comes across as slightly aloof, and she struggled with insecurity during the competition. She is a beautiful skater and now she is a beautiful dancer. I wanted her to go further.
librarianintx
Tuesday, May 02, 2017
DWTS Hollywood / Movie Nite Recap Part I
Choreographer Mandy Moore is the guest judge - yay!
It's a double elimination nite - booo!
Round One: Individual Dances
The highest scoring couple in Round One will receive immunity and won't have to participate in the Dance Off.
Bonner & Sharna
Paso Doble - Western
It took them FOREVER to start dancing. And even then I didn't see a whole lot of dancing - especially on Bonner's part. The hop up on the table was quite impressive. But otherwise, he made some Paso shapes and was led around by the extra female dancers (ugh!). Usually one of the positive comments I can make about Bonner is his partnering ability, but not in this dance. I was not a fan of this routine or Bonner's performance in it.
Len: "you forgot to be the matador"
Mandy: "I didn't lose you in the production" (really?)
Bruno: "needed a bit more smoothness"
Carrie Ann: "you did get lost - and half the number wasn't dancing" (Exactly!!)
Scores: 7, 7, 8, 7
My score: 7 (I'm being generous)
Nancy & Artem
Tango - Romance
FOR GOODNESS SAKE, PEOPLE, JUST DANCE!!
What is it about tonight so far? I guess they're trying to make every performance theatrical. Definitely Nancy and Artem danced more than Bonner and Sharna, and I thought their Tango was basically great, but they kept interrupting the dance with three professional dancers butting in. Why? What was the point? It was annoying. It jarred the flow of the routine. It also took them awhile to start dancing. JUST LET THEM DANCE. GOOD GRIEF! As Len would say, "Just get on with it!"
BREATHE
Nancy looked lovely, and Artem was very dashing.
Mandy: "beautiful"
Bruno: "5 star deluxe version of a Tango"
Carrie Ann: "you have blossomed"
Len: "quality of movement"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 9
Simone & Sasha
Charleston - Silent Movie
FINALLY! No extra dancers, and they danced their butts off for the entire routine! This was the PERFECT style of dance for this pair - they were able to show off their athleticism and gymnastic abilities with super tricks, and Simone didn't have to be overtly sexual, which makes her uncomfortable. It was the most connected she's ever been to Sasha. It was a sensational routine and they nailed it!
Bruno: "fizz and sparkle - goofy fun - very entertaining"
Carrie Ann: "very challenging routine - made it look effortless"
Len: "a joy to watch"
Mandy: "it looked like you were on automatic pilot - connect with Sasha more"
Scores: 10, 9, 9, 9
My score: 10
Nick & Peta
Argentine Tango - Action Movie
Peta said they were dancing like it was their last dance. I could definitely see they were really going for it. I liked how the music swelled in just the right places. I think Nick was much improved this week. His partnering skills were strong, and he kept up with Peta - who was fierce, passionate and smokin' hot. I liked the storyline too. The rope part at the end was cool. And there were some exciting Argentine Tango lifts. Good job Nick!
Carrie Ann: "very hot - moments of extreme brilliance"
Len: "you've improved from week one - you sold it"
Mandy: "loved the storytelling - you were excellent, Nick"
Bruno: "mission accomplished!"
Scores: 8, 8, 9, 9
My score: 8
Rashad & Emma
Paso Doble - Horror
I held my breath through most of this routine. I thought it might rival the epic awesomeness that was Riker & Allison's Pirates of the Caribbean Paso. It wasn't as righteous as that, but it was still damn fantastic. The look on Rashad's face was SO fierce and chill inducing in the beginning. His shapes and lines were on point. I thought the end was very exciting, and the routine built to a very satisfying crescendo. Great job Rashad!
Len: "the music was epic, and so was the dancing" (I agree!)
Bruno: "monster mash! gothic, noble, rich, lush, full of passion and feeling"
Carrie Ann: "watch your posture"
Scores: 9, 9, 10, 9
My score: 9
David & Lindsay
Salsa - Sci Fi
A sci fi salsa? Very strange.
There were too many lasers and too many dancers.
But he did a decent job. He has really improved with the lifts, tricks, and partnering skills. It was just a weird salsa because of the movie genre. It wasn't sexy, and he still doesn't have the bounce or the musicality. But it was okay.
Mandy: "no energy or spice in your footwork"
Bruno: "guardians of the salsa - no hip action"
Carrie Ann: "not the smoothest salsa - but entertaining"
Len: "it was fun"
Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8
My score: 8
Normani & Val
Argentine Tango - Foreign Film
What back injury? Not that I don't believe her - I'm just saying she didn't perform like she was injured. That was a hot, passionate, fierce, spicy, exquisite routine. And thank you Normani and Val for just getting out there and dancing!! No playing around, no extra dancers, but the story was still there.
Que linda!
Bellissima!
Brava!
Bruno: "Academy Award for best dance!"
Carrie Ann: "you deserve immunity for that dance - it's an honor to watch you dance"
Len: "staccato and softness"
Mandy: "impressed by your leg action"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
They win immunity!
End of Round One
End of Part One
Part Two will likely have to wait until tonight. I haven't seen two of the three dance offs yet.
librarianintx
It's a double elimination nite - booo!
Round One: Individual Dances
The highest scoring couple in Round One will receive immunity and won't have to participate in the Dance Off.
Bonner & Sharna
Paso Doble - Western
It took them FOREVER to start dancing. And even then I didn't see a whole lot of dancing - especially on Bonner's part. The hop up on the table was quite impressive. But otherwise, he made some Paso shapes and was led around by the extra female dancers (ugh!). Usually one of the positive comments I can make about Bonner is his partnering ability, but not in this dance. I was not a fan of this routine or Bonner's performance in it.
Len: "you forgot to be the matador"
Mandy: "I didn't lose you in the production" (really?)
Bruno: "needed a bit more smoothness"
Carrie Ann: "you did get lost - and half the number wasn't dancing" (Exactly!!)
Scores: 7, 7, 8, 7
My score: 7 (I'm being generous)
Nancy & Artem
Tango - Romance
FOR GOODNESS SAKE, PEOPLE, JUST DANCE!!
What is it about tonight so far? I guess they're trying to make every performance theatrical. Definitely Nancy and Artem danced more than Bonner and Sharna, and I thought their Tango was basically great, but they kept interrupting the dance with three professional dancers butting in. Why? What was the point? It was annoying. It jarred the flow of the routine. It also took them awhile to start dancing. JUST LET THEM DANCE. GOOD GRIEF! As Len would say, "Just get on with it!"
BREATHE
Nancy looked lovely, and Artem was very dashing.
Mandy: "beautiful"
Bruno: "5 star deluxe version of a Tango"
Carrie Ann: "you have blossomed"
Len: "quality of movement"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 9
Simone & Sasha
Charleston - Silent Movie
FINALLY! No extra dancers, and they danced their butts off for the entire routine! This was the PERFECT style of dance for this pair - they were able to show off their athleticism and gymnastic abilities with super tricks, and Simone didn't have to be overtly sexual, which makes her uncomfortable. It was the most connected she's ever been to Sasha. It was a sensational routine and they nailed it!
Bruno: "fizz and sparkle - goofy fun - very entertaining"
Carrie Ann: "very challenging routine - made it look effortless"
Len: "a joy to watch"
Mandy: "it looked like you were on automatic pilot - connect with Sasha more"
Scores: 10, 9, 9, 9
My score: 10
Nick & Peta
Argentine Tango - Action Movie
Peta said they were dancing like it was their last dance. I could definitely see they were really going for it. I liked how the music swelled in just the right places. I think Nick was much improved this week. His partnering skills were strong, and he kept up with Peta - who was fierce, passionate and smokin' hot. I liked the storyline too. The rope part at the end was cool. And there were some exciting Argentine Tango lifts. Good job Nick!
Carrie Ann: "very hot - moments of extreme brilliance"
Len: "you've improved from week one - you sold it"
Mandy: "loved the storytelling - you were excellent, Nick"
Bruno: "mission accomplished!"
Scores: 8, 8, 9, 9
My score: 8
Rashad & Emma
Paso Doble - Horror
I held my breath through most of this routine. I thought it might rival the epic awesomeness that was Riker & Allison's Pirates of the Caribbean Paso. It wasn't as righteous as that, but it was still damn fantastic. The look on Rashad's face was SO fierce and chill inducing in the beginning. His shapes and lines were on point. I thought the end was very exciting, and the routine built to a very satisfying crescendo. Great job Rashad!
Len: "the music was epic, and so was the dancing" (I agree!)
Bruno: "monster mash! gothic, noble, rich, lush, full of passion and feeling"
Carrie Ann: "watch your posture"
Scores: 9, 9, 10, 9
My score: 9
David & Lindsay
Salsa - Sci Fi
A sci fi salsa? Very strange.
There were too many lasers and too many dancers.
But he did a decent job. He has really improved with the lifts, tricks, and partnering skills. It was just a weird salsa because of the movie genre. It wasn't sexy, and he still doesn't have the bounce or the musicality. But it was okay.
Mandy: "no energy or spice in your footwork"
Bruno: "guardians of the salsa - no hip action"
Carrie Ann: "not the smoothest salsa - but entertaining"
Len: "it was fun"
Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8
My score: 8
Normani & Val
Argentine Tango - Foreign Film
What back injury? Not that I don't believe her - I'm just saying she didn't perform like she was injured. That was a hot, passionate, fierce, spicy, exquisite routine. And thank you Normani and Val for just getting out there and dancing!! No playing around, no extra dancers, but the story was still there.
Que linda!
Bellissima!
Brava!
Bruno: "Academy Award for best dance!"
Carrie Ann: "you deserve immunity for that dance - it's an honor to watch you dance"
Len: "staccato and softness"
Mandy: "impressed by your leg action"
Scores: 10, 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
They win immunity!
End of Round One
End of Part One
Part Two will likely have to wait until tonight. I haven't seen two of the three dance offs yet.
librarianintx
Sugar Journal Week 7
Here's a rundown of my sugar intake from the past week:
two glasses of Gatorade
two or three bottles of apple juice - at least one of them ten ounces instead of eight ounces
three cups of tea with honey
low sugar cookies a few days out of the week
something called "brownie brittle" on Saturday - I'm not sure if I ate a full serving or not.
one blueberry fruit bar
I also had ranch salad dressing for the first time in weeks. The bottle says it has less than a gram per serving of sugar, but sugar is listed in the top four ingredients, so I'm not sure how sugary it really is.
So except for the drinks, I did pretty good.
librarianintx
two glasses of Gatorade
two or three bottles of apple juice - at least one of them ten ounces instead of eight ounces
three cups of tea with honey
low sugar cookies a few days out of the week
something called "brownie brittle" on Saturday - I'm not sure if I ate a full serving or not.
one blueberry fruit bar
I also had ranch salad dressing for the first time in weeks. The bottle says it has less than a gram per serving of sugar, but sugar is listed in the top four ingredients, so I'm not sure how sugary it really is.
So except for the drinks, I did pretty good.
librarianintx
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