"Be on Time Chronicles" Tuesday 5/29/18

A Tale of Two Drivers

On Friday, I was headed out of the town after work for the Memorial Day weekend, so I had luggage with me. My driver didn't smile, didn't say "hello" or "good morning," and stood there while I struggled to get my suitcase into the trunk. She looked put out when I requested a step stool. She acted this way with the two people we picked up on my way to work, so I know her mood wasn't personal towards me.

That didn't make things any easier.

When we arrived at the library, she again stood there while I tugged to get my suitcase out of the back. I didn't want to say thank you, but I did, because I consider myself a polite person. She didn't help me with my luggage, which is part of her job, but she did drive well and she delivered me to my destination safely and on time. So I thanked her, but I regretted saying it, because she didn't even bother to acknowledge it.

Not a good way to start the day.

I could have reported her for not helping me. I could have told her to her face that she wasn't doing her job properly. But I'm not a confrontational person.

Fast forward to this morning. The day after a holiday.

My driver was cheerful and chatty. She not only complimented my appearance and outfit, she practically gushed over me. She was polite, told me to take my time entering the vehicle, and offered to help me with my seat belt. We had a nice conversation on the trip in, which was surprisingly short due to no other pickups.

When we arrived at the library, I thanked her and she said she hoped I have a great day.

That is a good start to the day.

I understand that stuff happens. Maybe that driver was tired or not feeling well. Maybe she was just in a bad mood. I can relate. But no matter what is happening in your personal life, you can still be polite, and you should do the job you were hired to do.

librarianintx

Thirty Day Writing Challenge: My Morning Commute

I have discussed my commute to and from work frequently in my occasional blog series, "The Be On Time Chronicles."

My morning is similar to anyone's work day up to a point:
The alarm goes off (in my case, three alarms go off)
I eventually leave the bed.
I shower, dress, comb my hair, do my skin care routine, put on shoes and jewelry.
I pack my lunch bag, and don my sweater and work badge. In the winter, I add a coat and gloves.

That's where the similarity ends.
Instead of sliding into my car, walking to a bus stop, or carpooling with a friend or co-worker, I wait for my city's para-transit vehicle to arrive.

Sometimes I don't have to wait at all, because the vehicle is early.
More often, I'm waiting awhile....sometimes thirty minutes or longer.
My work day starts at 8:30 a.m.
But I have to be ready for my ride by 6:45 a.m.

I do various things while I wait:
Check Facebook or e-mail on my phone
Read on my phone
Play games on my phone
Shop on my phone
Look for new recipes on my phone
Do dishes
Hang up clothes or fold jackets
Lay out clothes for the next day
Journal
Go through mail
Take medicine
Go to the bathroom again

No matter what I'm doing, I have to stop continuously and look out the window.
The driver has a thirty minute window to pick me up: 6:45 - 7:15.
But no matter when they arrive during that window, I only have five minutes to board the vehicle, or they can leave without me.
So I have to be watchful.
And hope they aren't parked where I can't see them.

An UBER ride costs about $25 if I miss the para-transit ride.

Once I enter the vehicle, I become a part of the culture of that particular transit experience. The driver might be cheerful and chatty, or sullen and quiet. The other passengers could be either or as well. Some are sick, tired, cranky, and prone to complaining. Some are outgoing, morning people, and full of sunshine and conversation. Some are mentally or emotionally challenged and have no filter. Some love Jesus and have to praise him loudly. One or two of them feel the need to put their hands on you.

Sometimes I ride for 20 minutes. More likely I travel for an hour or more. Reading in the car can be a challenge, and watching Netflix on my phone can induce motion sickness. Audio books and Spotify music are my go-to ways to pass the time. If we have to wait for 15 minutes or more for another passenger, I have been known to journal or write a note to someone. Whatever I can do to be more productive and less frustrated.

This is the start to my work day.

librarianintx

Survivor Finale - My Thoughts

Wow, what a finish on Survivor! The finale had me on the edge of my seat. For the first time in Survivor history, the final tribal council ended in a tie vote - five votes each for the two men who dominated the game this season - Dominic and Wendell. The winner was determined by the woman who received no votes to win and therefore became the eleventh member of the jury - Laurel. When that happened, I don't think there was a doubt in any viewer's mind that Wendell would be declared the winner. Laurel may have been pissed off that Wendell didn't invite her to the the steak dinner he received after winning the penultimate immunity challenge, but otherwise she had been aligned with him for most of the game - and he gave her his hidden immunity idol to guarantee her place in the final four. She wasn't going to vote against him after that. She had been in an alliance with both Dominic and Wendell for much of the game, but you could tell she was closer to Wendell.

I am so torn about the results. I feel that Dominic deserved to win. Wendell proclaimed himself the mastermind of the season during the final tribal council, but that just wasn't true. Dominic was the one who ran the show. And for me, he did it without being evil or cutthroat. He was simply strategic. I don't like to see evil game play rewarded, but I do want to see good game play end in championship, and unfortunately, that didn't happen for Dom. But on the other hand, I can't declare that Wendell isn't a worthy winner. He and Dom were together from the beginning, and they made big moves together. Wendell came on very strong at the end, winning immunity challenges, although Dom won the last one. Wendell came across as an extremely likeable guy, a superfan of the show. I can't say I'm sorry he won. But I am very sorry that Dom lost.

I'm sure Dominic was second-guessing himself about not challenging Wendell in the fire-making challenge. But I just didn't see that as a smart move. If he had lost, he would have been out, with no chance at winning the million dollars. If he had succeeded, yes, he likely would have had clear sailing. Neither Laurel nor Angela deserved to win, and it would have been a travesty if either of them had beaten Dominic. "Go big or go home" had been Dominic's mantra for much of the season. In the end, his bravado, his brashness, his confidence, his theatrics caused enough bitterness on the jury that the vote ended in a tie. But his antics sure made for an entertaining season!

I wish it had been Donathan, Dominic, and Wendell as the final three. Donathan deserved to be there more than Laurel. I don't think he deserved to win. He tried to make big moves, but he was too impulsive; he gave himself away too many times. But at least he tried. Laurel was a big talker in front of the cameras but never followed through on her bold plans. Donathan did follow through, but he didn't have anyone to back him up. If Laurel, Angela, Kellen, and Sebastian had teamed up, they could have eliminated Dominic. But Donathan and Angela didn't know how to keep their mouths shut. Not that I wanted Dom to be eliminated. I'm just saying they could have pulled it off.

Dominic and Wendell both played so well.
I wish they both could have won.

librarianintx

Thirty Day Writing Challenge: Two Phrases that Make Me Laugh

When I was growing up, my father had two nicknames that he used - I think they were both for me but I can't remember for sure. Maybe one was for me and one was for my sister. But after he died when I was nine I remember my mom continuing to use one of the nicknames for me. Both of the nicknames totally cracked me up every time they used them, and they still bring a smile to my face. I don't know how he came up with them, but they are really funny. The nicknames were "Tandelea Schwartzcup" and "Geraldine McBoing Boing"

:)

My mom continued to use the nickname "Tandelea Schwartzcup" after he died. I don't know why that's the one that persisted. Up until the age of seven I had long, curly hair that I usually wore in pigtails, or "doggy tails" as my mom called them. So maybe my hair was how my dad came up with the nickname "Geraldine McBoing Boing."

librarianintx

30 Day Writing Challenge: Friendships

The actual topic for this writing challenge is relationships, but I've decided to write about friendships. I wrote in an earlier blog that the most important thing in life is motivation, and I still believe that. But friendships are very important too. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find, and even more difficult to maintain. Some people have friendships that endure for most of their lives. They meet as children, grow up together, grow old together. Those are very lucky individuals. Other people struggle to make and keep friends, for a number of factors.

When I was very young, my family moved frequently, so it was next to impossible for me to maintain friendships. Until the age of 10, I moved four times - from Orlando, Florida, where I was born, to Sherman, Texas; then to Corpus Christi, Texas; then to San Antonio, Texas; then finally to Houston, Texas.

Unfortunately, my school and college days made it hard for me to develop friendships. I have a disability and chronic illnesses, so I spent much of my high school years on homebound and half-day programs. I didn't go to football games, movies, the mall, the beach, and out to eat like other kids. I lived in the dorm in college, so I did develop friendships there, but I had to concentrate more on my classes and projects than most students because of my health issues. I also went home every weekend when I was an undergrad, so I missed out on any weekend social activities. Graduate school was a time when I was the most social. I lived in a different city from my family, so I didn't go home every weekend. Dorm life had it's challenges, but for the most part I loved it, because I could hang out with people without having to get anywhere. We would have parties in the common area, gather in rooms for television shows and movies, order pizzas, etc. On weekends we would go to clubs, movies, and out to eat. I was concerned when I started graduate school that my disability would keep me from making friends, but the friends I had were very accepting, and treated me like everyone else.

As an adult, I have had to focus on work, doctor appointments, and taking care of myself and my surroundings. There isn't much energy or time left for a social life. I envy co-workers and other people I know who can go out on weeknights - dinners, parties, movies, concerts - and make it to work the next day. I have joined a few meet-up groups, but many of the activities occur during the week, so I can't go. My weekends are often spent catching up on rest and doing chores that I couldn't get done during the week. I also have a caregiver who comes at least three times a week, so I have to keep a schedule with her.

Maintaining friendships when you have a chronic illness is very difficult. People like to go out and do social activities - few people want to come over and just hang out at your apartment. Making plans is tough because I don't know how I'm going to feel and if I'm going to have the energy to do anything. Transportation is another huge hurdle for me. It can take literally hours for me to get somewhere to attend a function. Many people do not like to give rides - it takes up their time and maybe they're worried about liability as well.

I do have friends, and I do have a social life to a certain extent - I go to concerts and movies occasionally, and I have attended a few meet-up events. My roommate and I have friends who come over for television shows and special events like the Academy Awards. We also gather for friends birthdays. But I would like to have more social interaction. My health is better than it used to be, and if I had better transportation and was more connected to people I think I could get out more, especially on the weekends. It's something I'm working on, and definitely not giving up trying to achieve. I also endeavor not to focus on my lack of friendships. That only causes frustration and depression. I fight my fatigue and fill my time as much as I can with solitary pursuits that I enjoy - reading, blogging, journaling, and playing games.

librarianintx

"Dancing with the Stars" Athletes Edition Finale

I can't believe it's already time for the finale!
This is the shortest season in "Dancing with the Stars" history.

Round One

1) Tanya and Sasha
Viennese Waltz
This was a very traditional Viennese Waltz - flowing, sweeping, although it didn't cover as much of the dance floor as I'd like. Sasha sometimes ends his choreography a little early, which I find rather annoying. I want to see dancing from start to finish, not just the dancers standing at the end and making little curtsies. The dances are short enough as it is. Anyway, overall it was a nice routine.
Len: "elegance, sophistication, control"
Bruno: "born again Tanya, rejuvenated, radiant"
Carrie Ann: "every movement has real meaning - but you looked nervous"
Scores: 8, 9, 9
My score: 8

2) Josh and Sharna
Foxtrot
Sad face because Josh wasn't shirtless. :(
But what a leading man he has become in only four weeks!
He and Sharna have a wonderful partnership.
This was a beautiful dance - both passionate and tender, grand, sweeping, wonderful turns and extensions, excellent musicality and interpretation.
I loved it.
Yes, I saw the incident with Sharna's skirt, but it didn't interrupt the flow of the dance for me.
Bruno: "dashing, debonair, self-assured"
Carrie Ann: "competitive, excellence, poetry"
Len: "elegance, style"
Scores: 9, 9, 9
My score: 9

3) Adam and Jenna
Jazz
It was a really cute routine, showing off the playful personalities and the bond these two have developed in just a few short weeks. I would have liked to see more lifts and tricks, but it was a solid routine. I enjoyed it but I wasn't as enthusiastic as the crowd was.
Carrie Ann: "wonder twins of dance, Broadway"
Len: "fantastic"
Bruno: "exquisitely theatrical, wit, humor, technically brilliant"
Scores: 10, 10, 10
My score: 9

Freestyle Round!

1) Tanya and Sasha
NOW THAT WAS A FREESTYLE!!
Holy cow!!
Tanya, I am SO impressed!!
She was in it to win it, and I don't think she could have possibly done any more.
I mean, she came down from the rafters standing on a disk, she did cartwheels, she let Sasha whirl her around by her ankles, she danced by herself - she did it all.
She was surrounded by professional dancers, but hands down she was the star of that routine.
I am amazed by her strength, her power, her athleticism, the gymnastic elements - remember, everyone, she is 47 years old!!
What a dynamic routine!
And the fact that she danced to "I Will Survive" - icing on the cake!
I am so thrilled for you, Tanya!
Len: "full of fun, energy, joy, terrific!"
Bruno: "ultimate Disco Diva!"
Carrie Ann: "So awesome! I love you! So much joy! You made an impact!"
Scores: 10, 10, 10
My score: 10
During the judges' comments, Tanya said, "I wanted to show I deserve to be here." You showed it, girl!

2) Josh and Sharna
Josh completely shirtless - thank you Sharna!! :)
I appreciated the abs...and the ass in those tight football pants.
Like Tanya, Josh gave it everything he had in this performance.
Like Tanya, he danced with a group of professionals, but he was the star of the routine.
He was powerful, fierce, determined, exuberant, triumphant.
Ultimately I enjoyed Tanya's freestyle more. It was more entertaining to me. But I definitely appreciate and applaud Josh's talent, tenacity, and work ethic.
Bruno: "strong, heroic, powerful performance, master and commander of the situation"
Carrie Ann: "incredible piece of choreography; I saw a champion"
Len: "great, loved the power, the drama, the lifts"
Scores: 10, 10, 10
My score: 10

3) Adam and Jenna
Mmmmmm......
Um......
It was one of the more unusual Freestyles on "Dancing with the Stars".
The costumes and music choice reminded me of something I saw on "So Think You Can Dance" years ago.
It was good, and I totally love him, but honestly, it didn't blow me away.
The music was a little repetitive.
The lasers made it hard to see the dancers at times.
There was decent energy and power, but compared to Tanya and Josh, I didn't see Adam going for it the way his competitors did.
It was just okay for me, and a Freestyle is supposed to be amazing.
For me, it was more style over substance.
I'll remember the look of it, the costumes, the hair, but I won't remember the dancing.
Just as an aside, did anyone think that Adam totally looked like Johnny Weir in that wig?
Carrie Ann: "style was incredible, brave, but seemed out of sync"
Len: "modern and inventive"
Bruno: "high style freestyle, absolutely fabulous"
Score: 9, 9, 10
My score: 9

Results:
Adam and Jenna won, and I'm very happy for them. I wasn't a fan of their Freestyle, but I love the two of them together, and they definitely danced well enough throughout the short competition to win the mirrorball.

Happy summer dance fans!
See you in the fall!
librarianintx

"Dancing with the Stars" Athletes Edition Week 3

Yep, I'm a week behind.
But I'm still doing a recap.

Guest judge: David Ross
Mentors:
Nastia Liukin
Von Miller
Meryl Davis

Round One: Individual dances

1) Mirai and Alan
Quickstep
She doesn't need extra dancers!!
It was an extra quick, flashy, sparkly Quickstep. They flew all over that dance floor. It was glitzy, glamorous, she had great footwork and a great frame.
She's a star.
The routine was very Hollywood, very Broadway, and very entertaining.
David: "You are a boss!"
Len: "You mean business, but you lost your posture"
Bruno: "firefly in full flight, perfect timing"
Carrie Ann: "She did very well (spoken in Japanese to Mirai's mother), fantastic"
Scores: 9, 9, 8, 9
My score: 10

2) Jennie and Keo
Viennese Waltz
She's a country girl and she danced to a country song that she really likes, so you could tell she was comfortable and more connected to the dance and the music this week. I don't know if it was the song or the choreography, but this dance did not have the fluidity that I'm used to seeing in a Viennese Waltz. It was too choppy; the movement was cut off in places. They didn't sweep across the floor. It was okay, it was pretty, but it wasn't a proper Viennese Waltz to me.
Len: "ease and elegance, needed more fluidity and bars in hold"
Bruno: "you're relaxed and trusting your partner more, some balance problems"
Carrie Ann: "I love the joy, you're growing, storytelling:
David: "super impressive"
Scores: 7, 8, 7, 7
My score: 8

3) Chris and Witney
Foxtrot
Extra dancers - ugh!
Except for his mom at the end - that was sweet.
Witney did pull out all the stops for this number.
He was suave, debonair, with good partnering skills.
Witney's leap off the piano into his arms was very exciting.
He had a good frame too.
It was an enjoyable routine.
Bruno: "razzle dazzle, so dashing"
Carrie Ann: "show stopper, well done Mom, but there was a lift!"
David: "great catch, loved the routine"
Len: "not a lot of rhythm in the beginning, but full of entertainment overall"
Scores; 8, 9, 7, 9
My score; 9

4) Tanya and Sasha
Rumba
Tanya is known for her power and her strength. I didn't feel the sexiness or sensuality that I usually feel in a Rumba. It was a lovely dance, but not enough hip action, not enough body contact. The ending was a little awkward too. But I'm still rooting for you, Tanya (and voting).
Carrie Ann: "danced with your heart; we're all in your corner"
David: "very inspiring and emotional"
Len: "light and shade, needed more hip action"
Bruno: "improvement in your lines"
Scores: 8, 9, 8, 8
My score: 8

5) Adam and Jenna
Contemporary
"I know why the caged bird sings"
It was a wonderful routine - sensual, beautiful lines, there is such a connection between these two.
But I thought they were in the cage for too long, and that frustration made me like the dance less.
Overall, though, it was lovely, emotional, spiritual, ethereal
David: "beautiful, so connected"
Len: "loved the emotion, control with flair"
Bruno: "two birds of paradise, can't tell who's the professional"
Carrie Ann: "pure perfection"
Scores: 10, 10, 9, 10
My score: 9

6) Josh and Sharna
Contemporary
WOW!!
This routine had everything that I look for in a Contemporary dance:
sensuality
connectedness
beautiful lines
amazing lifts
It had more fluidity and movement than Adam and Jenna's dance did.
Josh showed fantastic control, strength, partnering skills, and gentleness.
It was breathtaking.
Len: "beautiful fluidity; lifts were seamless"
Bruno: "strong, assured, confident, impressive lifts"
Carrie Ann: "sure-footedness, confident, you're on fire"
David: "smooth, beautiful, elegant"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 9
My score: 10

Round Two: Side by Side Dance-Offs

1) Tanya and Sasha vs Jennie and Keo
Mentor: Nastia
Cha Cha
It's hard for me to judge the dance offs when they dance side by side. I like it better when they take turns.
I thought they were pretty even through much of the dance, but toward the end Tanya and Sasha had more speed, fluidity, and content.
I give the edge to Tanya and Sasha.
Carrie Ann: Tanya and Sasha
David: Jennie and Keo
Len: Tanya and Sasha
Bruno: Tanya and Sasha
America: Jennie and Keo
So Tanya and Sasha get the points.

2) Mirai and Alan vs Adam and Jenna
Mentor: Meryl
Jive
Oh my goodness, this is SO hard!
They are both SO awesome!
I give the edge to Mirai and Alan. Mirai's kicks and flicks were stronger, and she and Alan had more exciting lifts and tricks.
Carrie Ann: Adam and Jenna
David: Mirai and Alan
Len: Mirai and Alan
Bruno: Adam and Jenna
America: Adam and Jenna
So Adam and Jenna get the points.

3) Chris and Witney vs Josh and Sharna
Mentor: Von
Salsa
That was so much fun to watch!
Len might not like the shirts being ripped off, but I definitely do, and so does Bruno. :)
I think Josh has more natural rhythm and hip action, but I certainly enjoyed Chris' attempt.
I give the edge to Josh and Sharna
Carrie Ann: Chris and Witney
David: Josh and Sharna
Len: Josh and Sharna
Bruno: Josh and Sharna
America: Chris and Witney
So Josh and Sharna get the points.

Elimination:
WHAT?!?!?!
Mirai didn't make the finals?!?!?
Travesty!!
She absolutely deserved to be there, and she had a very good chance of winning.
That is just so wrong.
But I have to take responsibility to a certain extent.
I voted for Tanya to make it. I didn't vote for anyone else.
I wanted to Tanya to make it to the finals.
But she doesn't deserve to be there over Mirai.
Mirai is a better dancer.
But Josh is great too, and I'm happy that he and Sharna will dance again.
This is so difficult!
I can't believe the season is almost over!

librarianintx

"Be on Time Chronicles" 5/10/18

Two consecutive days of fellow passengers oversharing have left me cranky and confused. Why do some people enter the vehicle and somehow think they are sitting in their therapist's office - or on a stool with a drink in their hand and a bartender's ear nearby? Metro drivers are not getting paid to hear your troubles - and neither am I. I feel like I'm a caring person who is more than willing to help someone in need, but to verbally vomit your life story to a stranger you've never met - or a driver you see every once in awhile - it just seems unnecessary. Are you going into all of this because you need advice and support - or do you just like to hear yourself talk, and you think what you have to say is more interesting and important that anything the driver or other passengers would have to share? Now, its true, nothing in my life can compare to some of the risque, illegal, and heartbreaking tales that I've heard while riding around the city. But if I had anything like that going in my life, I just don't think I would blurt it out to a car full of strangers.

Maybe some people do this because they can't afford a therapist.
Or perhaps they are a narcissist.
Or they just like being the center of attention.
It could be they enjoy telling a shocking story. 

Personalities are various, and obviously some people are more of an open book than others.
It's up to each individual person how much they want to share about themselves, their friends and their family.
The driver has every right to say, "I'm sorry, I need to concentrate on my driving," or "I'd rather not hear about that."
I think the passengers who overshare do so because they know they are in the presence of a caring driver who will listen and be understanding and empathetic.
I have every right to put in my earbuds and tune them out.
Which I know I should do instead of being irritated and frustrated.

I mean, I DO talk in the van. And I share life events. Nieces' graduations and weddings. Birthday celebrations. Accomplishments at work. Maybe I even talk about minor illnesses sometimes. So other passengers COULD be annoyed with me on occasion. But I usually only share in response to a driver's question. And I don't go into great detail, or share intimate details about myself, my family, or my friends.

Perspective.

librarianintx

"Dancing with the Stars" Athletes Edition Week 2 5/8/18

We're already halfway through the season, what?! :-(

But yay for guest judge Rashad Jennings!

Part I: Individual dances

1) Josh and Sharna (football)
Paso Doble
Well, of course I didn't like the extra dancers. Sigh.
Josh had good shaping and lines, which are necessary in a successful Paso. His attack was decent. The problem for me was that I felt he was more running back and forth between dancers rather than actually dancing. It was a step back for me this week. He's still super hot though.
Rashad: "you took control"
Len: "equally good Paso"
Bruno: "going for total domination - but need to sustain lines"
Carrie Ann: "grounded, effective, passionate"
Scores: 7, 7, 8, 8
My score: 7

2) Jennie and Keo (softball)
Cha Cha
She really tried, but the latin dances are not going to be her thing. I think she's a country girl at heart, and this R&B song was not her vibe. I wonder what song she ultimately refused to dance to. She didn't get down and dirty; she basically just went through the steps. There was musicality, but the feeling wasn't there; there was no connection to the music or the routine. She didn't get her groove on. It was way too safe. And there were extra dancers. Ugh.
Len: "competent performance, but lacked rhythm and lost timing"
Bruno: "off timing"
Carrie Ann: "didn't have a strong connection to the music"
Rashad: "performed well"
Scores: 6, 7, 7, 6
My score; 6

3) Kareem and Lindsay (basketball)
Salsa
His father was a dancer, so this performance was an homage to him. At times Kareem was better than last week. He still stood there for part of the dance and let the EXTRA DANCERS salsa around him. But there was improvement. There were some basic latin steps. Very basic. Unfortunately, the man has no hips to shake. But I think he did his best, and that's all he can do. The man is 71 years old, 7 foot tall, and has no meat on his bones. The music was great, and huge kudos to the fearless team of Haley and Lindsay! Lindsay was on Haley's shoulders for part of the dance, and Haley was hidden under Lindsay's skirt, dancing completely blind. So imaginative, and dangerous!
Bruno: "clever, well constructed"
Carrie Ann: "lovely tribute to your father - you shimmied!"
Rashad: "father is proud"
Len: "far more content and rhythm"
Scores: 7, 7, 6, 6
My score: 6

4) Chris and Witney (luge)
Viennese Waltz
Chris showed off some very good partnering skills in this routine! He looked like a leading man. They had a very good flow of movement around the floor. His frame wasn't great and his footwork looked a little sloppy to me at times. But he had some very nice lines. When the lights weren't blinding me, I thought it was a lovely, mostly successful dance.
Carrie Ann: "so impressed, nuanced, finesse"
Rashad: "amazing, good heel leads"
Len: "good sway in hold, competent"
Bruno: "leading man, waltzing heartthrob"
Scores: 9, 8, 8, 8
My score: 7

Am I cranky tonight?

5) Tanya and Sasha (skating)
Quickstep
I am cranky no more!
Holy cow, what a Quickstep!
Way to go Tanya!
She had energy and personality out the ying yang from the moment the dance started, and she did not wane through the entire routine!
I'm so impressed!
I could tell that she was totally feeling that song!
Great speed and footwork - outstanding!
The bear was super annoying, but otherwise, I loved the performance!
Rashad: "loved it - showing the world a whole new chapter in your life"
Len: "liked the energy - felt good"
Bruno: "great fun, high energy, didn't lose the timing"
Carrie Ann: "strength, powerful"
Scores: 8, 9, 8, 8
My score; 9

6) Mirai and Alan (skating)
Foxtrot
OMG, she is amazing!
That was a wonderful Foxtrot!
She looked like a princess - The dress, the jewelry, her hair and makeup - stunning!
The extra dancers were completely unnecessary.
She was floating across the floor.
Perfect lines, beautiful frame, so much musicality
FLAWLESS
Perfection on Week 2!
Len: "best dance so far"
Bruno: "gorgeous, radiant, fairytale princess"
Carrie Ann: "gorgeous"
Rashad: "great, graceful, peaceful"
Scores: 9, 10, 9, 9
My score: 10!

7) Arike and Gleb (basketball)
Foxtrot
Yay, she looked like a real dancer this week - lovely dress and heels!
Her frame was very good.
You can tell that she is still trying to find her footing.
Not as much movement as a typical Foxtrot.
And I thought Gleb's choreography was a little lazy at the end.
But I love the song.
Overall I saw improvement from last week.
Bruno: "posture was much better"
Carrie Ann: "magic, powerful"
Rashad: "performed under pressure"
Len: "fantastic footwork"
Scores: 8, 9, 8, 8
My score: 7 (almost an 8)

8) Adam and Jenna (skating)
Quickstep
The routine was a little short because it took them awhile to start dancing. Still lots of flash and panache, great speed and a good frame. A solid Quickstep. Overall this performance was a little less exciting for me because I wasn't as big a fan of the song as I was last week. But Adam is definitely still a frontrunner. And there's still amazing chemistry between him and Jenna.
Carrie Ann: "You better work! Tight, in sync, but room for growth"
Rashad: "love the outfit and the chemistry"
Len: "so much content, speed, and clarity of movement"
Bruno: "no messing round or distractions [what he means is no extra dancers, yay!], timing is impeccable"
Scores: 9, 9, 9, 10
My score: 9

Part II: Group dances

1) Team 50's Tennis
Jive
Kareem and Lindsay, Josh and Sharna, Tanya and Sasha, Chris and Witney
Overall cute, but the best parts were when the individual couples danced. They had very good tricks and Jive content.
The group struggled with synchronicity and timing.
And Kareem just standing there at times was glaringly obvious to me.
Len: "tight and together"
Bruno: "witty, imaginative, creative"
Carrie Ann: "felt like a team dance"
Rashad: "had a great time"
Scores: 8, 9, 8, 8
My score: 8

2) Team 70's Football
Disco
Mirai and Alan, Adam and Jenna, Arike and Gleb, Jennie and Keo
I was very impressed!
They were SO tight and together as a group!
And they only had one short rehearsal with Arike!
Amazing!
Really fun too.
I loved the guys' afros!
Jennie and Arike looked surprisingly comfortable.
Great job!
Bruno: "Monday night fever!"
Carrie Ann: "fantastic!"
Rashad: "entertaining"
Len: "loved it!"
Scores: 9, 10, 9, 9
My score: 9

Elimination:
Arike and Gleb and Kareem and Lindsay were sent home.
I think Arike was actually relieved, except for the fact that she is a competitor.
I was relieved to see Kareem go. I was just worried for his safety.

Only two weeks left dance fans!

librarianintx

This Past Weekend

"Accept challenges, so that you may feel the exhilaration of victory." George S. Patton

This quote was the epitome of my weekend, on a small scale.

For the past several weeks I have been dealing with another inner ear flare up. This occurs nearly every spring. Inner ear disorders often come to life during peak allergy season. I have not tested high enough to need allergy shots, but I have noticed that when the mold counts are soaring, that is when I'm suffering the most.

Inner ear disorders can cause a myriad of uncomfortable and often disabling physical and emotional symptoms. Nearly every spring I struggle with making it to work and social engagements due to some combination of vertigo, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, headaches, anxiety, and other ailments. It is a frustrating, exhausting, debilitating disorder, with no cure, although certain medications and in some cases physical therapy, including eye and head movement exercises, can help.

This weekend I had a rather full schedule on tap, and I wondered how, or if, I would be able to make it to any of my planned activities.

But what I have learned this season in particular, is that I can be the boss of this disorder. I can manage this illness and not let it take over my life. I'm not saying that I won't ever have to call in sick to work or change my plans because of how I'm feeling. That is still going to happen, unfortunately. But I can have the upper hand more than I think I'm able to.

This weekend was a challenge. But I was able to do everything on my schedule. On Saturday I attended the memorial service of a co-worker's father. I went out to dinner afterward with another co-worker / friend. I enjoyed a rejuvenating manicure and pedicure. On Sunday I volunteered at a chorus concert and listened to the beautiful music. Later I had a friend over for dinner and a television show. I was able to eat, ride in cars, sit in church pews, walk down uneven streets, talk to people, cook, and through it all manage any uncomfortable symptoms that reared their ugly heads.

I did not have to cancel my weekend.
I did not have to lament and rail against two days of missed opportunities to enjoy life.
I was able to celebrate tiny victories.
I am very grateful for that.

librarianintx

The most important thing in life

This is strictly my opinion.
To me, there is a singular aspect in life that is key to a happy, successful existence.
What do you think it is?
Family?
Friends?
A career?
Education?
Money?

All of these are important in someone's life. Some carry greater weight than others, depending on your personality. Some people are loners, so family and friends may not be paramount. But in my opinion, none of these are the main factor in a life of accomplishment.

What is?
Purpose

Having a purpose makes your life successful and meaningful.
That purpose can be lifelong education, or a career, but it doesn't have to be.
Your purpose can be helping others
Taking care of animals
Raising children
Traveling the world
Inventing something

Some people have a purpose from an early age - a goal they want to achieve
Winning an Olympic medal
Curing a disease
Writing a bestseller
Getting elected to higher office

Other people struggle for years, decades even, with what their purpose in life is.

Some people have one goal in mind, then change to another goal.
Many people have multiple goals in their lifetime.
Getting a degree
Raising a family
Achieving job promotions
Traveling after retirement

The key is to always have a purpose, and keep working to make it happen.
Motivation is a crucial factor in the success of a goal.
You have to WANT something and strive to attain your desired objective

Having a purpose makes life interesting, meaningful, consequential
Not having a purpose can make life bleak, boring, depressing, dreary

Don't despair if you're struggling with purpose and motivation
Work at it
Think about what's important to you and what you want to achieve in life
Get help if you're struggling with depression and anxiety
A joyful, busy, triumphant life is possible, even in the face of difficult circumstances such as disability, illness, or financial problems.

Success is always within reach.

librarianintx

"Dancing with the Stars" Athletes edition Week 1 4/30/18

YAY!
Dancing with the Stars is back!
Boo that it's only four weeks long this season!

Here we go...

1) Chris Mazdzer (luge) and Witney
Salsa
He was not terrible!
First of all, he's hot.
There is no second of all.
He's just hot.
He did rush, so his timing was off. He doesn't have great rhythm, at least not yet. But he's hot. He looked great out there. The lifts and tricks were very exciting, and pretty well-executed, after the first one, which bordered on disaster.
And did I mention he's smokin' hot?
Len: "so impressed with you - style, confidence"
Bruno: "broke the ice nicely, good hip action, very exciting"
Carrie Ann: "You are incredible - choreography was jam-packed - star quality"
Scores: 7, 7, 7
My score: 7 (for the dancing, 9 for the hotness)

2) Kareen Abdul-Jabbar (basketball) and Lindsay
Cha Cha
He is 7'1''; she is 5'4'' (Oh my!)
Extra dancers - ugh!!
Um...honestly the performance pained me. He is SO tall and SO thin. I just had horrible visions of him falling and shattering into dozens of pieces on the dance floor. I certainly hope he's on bone-building medication (get your minds out of the gutter, I'm talking about osteoporosis!) He smiled and looked happy, but his dancing had no rhythm or musicality. He basically stood there and let the women dance around him. Yikes. Not good. I'm sorry.
Bruno: "simple, dignified"
Carrie Ann: "You entertained us but you need to get groovier"
Len: "You gave it your all but you need to loosen up" 
Scores: 6, 5, 6
My score: 5
He's 71 years old AND a cancer survivor?! Now I feel bad about my comments and my score. But I have to judge the dance.

3) Jennie Finch-Dagle (softball) and Keo
Foxtrot
Given Keo's unfortunate track record with ballroom partners, I'm so happy to see him paired with someone who can dance! It was a solid performance - nice frame, musicality, and ease of movement. It was a sweet, down-home on the farm dance with a cameo by her three kids at the end. "Dancing with the Stars" viewers will likely eat that up like it was apple pie topped with Blue Bell ice cream (my Texas roots are showing).
Carrie Ann: "a joy to watch, good student"
Len: "elements of control and flair, good job"
Bruno: "airy breeze and fresh quality - needed more control"
Scores: 7, 7, 7
My score: 7

4) Jamie Anderson (snowboarding) and Artem
Viennese Waltz
Yay for the return of Artem's natural hair color!
I was not a fan of the blond phase.
Okay, she was clearly nervous, she was hesitant, but Artem's strong arms - I mean partnering skills - and a great song elevated this performance. She was a bit clumsy at times, but she looked elegant, and there were moments of gracefulness. Overall good for a first dance.
Len: "a little skippy, but elegance and personality"
Bruno: "hit a slippery patch - never lose the flow"
Carrie Ann: "beauty, artistry, but you were nervous and rushing"
Scores: 6, 7, 6
My score: 6

5) Mirai Nagasu (skating) and Alan
Salsa
Oh hell yeah, she's a star on the dance floor now too!
Fantastic routine!
Sexy, hot, terrific tricks, musicality, star quality
They look amazing together and have wonderful chemistry.
Mirai is a contender for sure!
Go girl!
I loved it!
Bruno: "spicy, crispy-cracker of a salsa!"
Carrie Ann: "you're a boss - You owned that dance!"
Len: "full of vigor and vitality"
Scores: 7, 8, 8
My score: 8

6) Arike Ogunbowale (basketball) and Gleb
Salsa
Well, the extra dancers and her choice of footwear made me grumpy. This is a dance competition - She should have been in heels. It was also a rather short dance so I'm struggling to critique it. She did not do nearly as well as Mirai and the powers that be should not have put two Salsa numbers back to back when one was obviously so much stronger than the other. She had good energy, but that's about all I can say about the performance. The dance was just not very memorable for me, except for negative aspects like the extra dancers.
Carrie Ann: "You've got your own style - but you need heels"
Len: "energetic, but needed more hip action"
Bruno: "shaking it up"
Scores: 7, 6, 7
My score: 7

7) Adam Rippon (skating) and Jenna
Cha Cha
OMG, Adam dancing to RuPaul's "Sissy That Walk" was everything!!!
I don't know how mainstream "Dancing with the Stars" America will feel about the song and the performance, but I was gagging! (I predict less than three people who read this review are "Drag Race" fans that will understand what that means. Translation: It was off the chain! Second translation: It was fantastic!)
He had amazeballs chemistry with Jenna, his strutting (I mean dancing) was crisp and tight; it was a high energy, exciting routine.
He owned that catwalk! (I mean dance floor!)
Yes, I did see him fall out of the pirouette. I don't care. He was still the bomb.
Work it!
Bruno will lose his shit, I guarantee.
Len: "good, sharp, crisp, clear, lots of Cha Cha content"
Bruno: "hip action of a devil, great synchronicity with Jenna"
Carrie Ann: "You were born to do this show"
Scores: 8, 8, 8
My score: 8

8) Johnny Damon (baseball) and Emma
Foxtrot
Not a disaster, but definitely a work in progress. Too rushed, sloppy, bad footwork, very hunched frame in places - but he's a hoot and it was an entertaining routine. I bet he's a super fun dad.
I was worried for Emma a few times, but she appeared to survive the dance unscathed.
Bruno: "happy, shuffling along"
Carrie Ann: "You're adorable"
Len: "difficult, but I salute you"
Scores: 6, 6, 6
My score: 6

9) Tanya Harding (skating) and Sasha
Foxtrot
Tanya possesses such an interesting mix of bravado and insecurity. She said she's not graceful, but that was a lovely, elegant, and in my opinion, inspirational dance. Tanya has been alienated from the sport she loved for years. Her passion as well as her livelihood were stripped from her. Now she's getting the chance to compete again, and competing she is - with her heart and her talent. Good for you, Tanya! I'm rooting for you! That was a beautiful routine. My one picky comment has nothing to do with her dancing, or the choreography. My gripe is with the wardrobe department. Who decided to put her in that Waltons-era drab housewife dress? It was such a boring costume. This is Dancing with the Stars, people, and as we know, Tanya is no stranger to a glitzy performance outfit.
Carrie Ann: "You are a beautiful dancer, blew me away"
Len: "charming dance, lovely performance"
Bruno: "lyrical quality"
Scores: 8, 8, 7
My score: 8

10) Josh Norman (football) and Sharna
Cha Cha
Did I see a lot of Cha Cha content?
No
Did I care?
Not really
The choreography made him look like a dancer.
The red jacket with no shirt made him look damn fine.
His chemistry with Sharna was blazing.
It all worked for me.
They can have more content next week.
If they want to
Len: "full or rhythm and style"
Bruno: "star quality, charisma, sex appeal, natural musicality"
Carrie Ann: "X-factor, fly guy"
Scores: 8, 8, 8
My score: 8

Jamie and Artem and Johnny and Emma were eliminated at the end of the show.
In my opinion, it should have been Johnny and Kareem.
Tanya and Sasha were in the bottom as well. Travesty!

Thanks for reading dance fans!
librarianintx