Songwriters: BAREILLES, SARA / ANTONOFF, JACK
You can be amazing
You can turn a phrase into a weapon or a drug
You can be the outcast
Or be the backlash of somebody’s lack of love
Or you can start speaking up
Nothing’s gonna hurt you the way that words do
And they settle ‘neath your skin
Kept on the inside and no sunlight
Sometimes a shadow wins
But I wonder what would happen if you
Say what you wanna say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave
With what you want to say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I wanna see you be brave
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I wanna see you be brave
Everybody’s been there, everybody’s been stared down
By the enemy
Fallen for the fear and done some disappearing
Bow down to the mighty
Don’t run, stop holding your tongue
Maybe there’s a way out of the cage where you live
Maybe one of these days you can let the light in
Show me how big your brave is
Say what you wanna say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave
With what you want to say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave
Innocence, your history of silence
Won’t do you any good
Did you think it would?
Let your words be anything but empty
Why don’t you tell them the truth?
Say what you wanna say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave
With what you want to say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I wanna see you be brave
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I wanna see you be brave
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I wanna see you be brave
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you.
End of song
I just wanna see me be brave.
librarianintx
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Friday, January 24, 2014
Google Hangout on Dealing with Anxiety
I don't know how long the video will be available, but here's the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mJNOZas32E
Here are some highlights:
Many of us have bodies that are hardwired for anxiety.
new term - "Meta-stressing"
vast variety of ways that anxiety can manifest itself - cognitive, physical, and nervous systems can all be affected
think about what you enjoy to quell anxiety
People have various views on medication to treat anxiety. Medication can be an important part of the process. But be wary of dependence, abuse, side effects, withdrawal, and masking of symptoms. Also try to avoid self-medicating with alcohol or other drugs like pot.
Anxiety is actually a universal emotion. We all need some anxiety in our lives to remain safe. But we don't want it to take over our lives.
Getting diagnosed can be scary. There can be a fear of being labeled. There can be shame, stigma, being known as "the anxious girl (or guy)." Telling friends and family can be difficult. There is fear that they won't understand, will ridicule you, will abandon you. There can be a stigma of vulnerability, especially with men.
Helpful techniques:
Play with something - snap a bracelet, juggle a small ball
breathing techniques
try to visualize your anxiety as something small and insignificant
CBT - cognitive behavioral therapy
meditation - mindfulness - live in the moment
get enough sleep
get enough exercise
find an outlet - something you enjoy - music, writing, exercise
You worry about the future; you feel regret about the past - mindfulness keeps you in the present
"We are gifted catastrophizers"
Imagine your worst case "what if" - would it really be that bad? Might be embarassing, but life would go on.
My thoughts:
First of all, the quote "We are gifted catastrophizers" is the quote of the day! I am such a pro at that, unfortunately. It is such a hard habit to break. But I'm working on it through mindfulness. Every time a "what if" pops into my head, I try to say to myself, "Live in the moment. Be present in the now. This is not happening, and it may never happen. Relax."
This was my first Google Hangout, and I'm glad we had a snow day so I could watch it live. I had some technical problems, but I was able to watch all of it. Sometimes I don't want to hear other people talk about their anxiety and phobias, because I don't want to find anything else to worry about. My plate is plentiful, thank you. But I'm learning that if I hear or read about the experiences of the others, I can glean helpful techniques from them without developing their fears and worries.
Two authors that have written books about their experiences with anxiety were part of the Hangout:
1) Monkey Mind: A Memoir of Anxiety by Daniel Smith
2) My Age of Anxiety: Fear, Hope, Dread, and the Search for Peace of Mind by Scott Stossel
Finally, in the Amazon notes for one of these books, there was the question, "Does anxiety motivate us or cripple us?" For some people, anxiety can be a powerful and successful motivator. When Amber Riley won Dancing with the Stars, she said, in part, "...if something scares me, then I want to do it." I remember hearing an interview with someone else, I think it was an athlete, saying something about how much they like that feeling of anxiety. "I'm disappointed when I don't feel that way," I think I remember them saying. What I do remember about the quote is me saying to myself, "Wow, what a concept! Someone actually WANTS to feel this way?" It was shocking to me. They say the mind is a powerful, awesome force. If I could find a way to harness my anxiety and use it to propel me instead of inhibit me, what all could I accomplish in my life?
Could I do it? Could I actually learn to make anxiety my bitch?
Second quote of the day! :-)
librarianintx
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mJNOZas32E
Here are some highlights:
Many of us have bodies that are hardwired for anxiety.
new term - "Meta-stressing"
vast variety of ways that anxiety can manifest itself - cognitive, physical, and nervous systems can all be affected
think about what you enjoy to quell anxiety
People have various views on medication to treat anxiety. Medication can be an important part of the process. But be wary of dependence, abuse, side effects, withdrawal, and masking of symptoms. Also try to avoid self-medicating with alcohol or other drugs like pot.
Anxiety is actually a universal emotion. We all need some anxiety in our lives to remain safe. But we don't want it to take over our lives.
Getting diagnosed can be scary. There can be a fear of being labeled. There can be shame, stigma, being known as "the anxious girl (or guy)." Telling friends and family can be difficult. There is fear that they won't understand, will ridicule you, will abandon you. There can be a stigma of vulnerability, especially with men.
Helpful techniques:
Play with something - snap a bracelet, juggle a small ball
breathing techniques
try to visualize your anxiety as something small and insignificant
CBT - cognitive behavioral therapy
meditation - mindfulness - live in the moment
get enough sleep
get enough exercise
find an outlet - something you enjoy - music, writing, exercise
You worry about the future; you feel regret about the past - mindfulness keeps you in the present
"We are gifted catastrophizers"
Imagine your worst case "what if" - would it really be that bad? Might be embarassing, but life would go on.
My thoughts:
First of all, the quote "We are gifted catastrophizers" is the quote of the day! I am such a pro at that, unfortunately. It is such a hard habit to break. But I'm working on it through mindfulness. Every time a "what if" pops into my head, I try to say to myself, "Live in the moment. Be present in the now. This is not happening, and it may never happen. Relax."
This was my first Google Hangout, and I'm glad we had a snow day so I could watch it live. I had some technical problems, but I was able to watch all of it. Sometimes I don't want to hear other people talk about their anxiety and phobias, because I don't want to find anything else to worry about. My plate is plentiful, thank you. But I'm learning that if I hear or read about the experiences of the others, I can glean helpful techniques from them without developing their fears and worries.
Two authors that have written books about their experiences with anxiety were part of the Hangout:
1) Monkey Mind: A Memoir of Anxiety by Daniel Smith
2) My Age of Anxiety: Fear, Hope, Dread, and the Search for Peace of Mind by Scott Stossel
Finally, in the Amazon notes for one of these books, there was the question, "Does anxiety motivate us or cripple us?" For some people, anxiety can be a powerful and successful motivator. When Amber Riley won Dancing with the Stars, she said, in part, "...if something scares me, then I want to do it." I remember hearing an interview with someone else, I think it was an athlete, saying something about how much they like that feeling of anxiety. "I'm disappointed when I don't feel that way," I think I remember them saying. What I do remember about the quote is me saying to myself, "Wow, what a concept! Someone actually WANTS to feel this way?" It was shocking to me. They say the mind is a powerful, awesome force. If I could find a way to harness my anxiety and use it to propel me instead of inhibit me, what all could I accomplish in my life?
Could I do it? Could I actually learn to make anxiety my bitch?
Second quote of the day! :-)
librarianintx
10 Things the World Can Learn from People with Disabilities
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tiffiny-carlson/lessonspeople-with-disabilities-_b_4577337.html
by Tiffiny Carlson
No matter the type of person, there are lessons to be learned from them. People with disabilities are especially influential, as our hardships in life aren't easily forgotten. We go through every day with determination and strength, which many people are bowled over by, with many secretly wondering if they could do the same thing.
People with a disabilities learn so much throughout their lives; life lessons that able-bodied people rarely get to experience.
Having a disability is definitely difficult, but it's also one of the richest classrooms a human can experience, too. While these learning experiences are more profound experienced directly, there are some special tokens of wisdom we can pass along.
1) True happiness is really possible in a "broken" body.
Most say they would rather die than live with a disability, which makes me laugh. That's because most able-bodied people can't imagine being happy if their body was ever permanently broken. But the truth is that the human brain is very adept at transitioning into someone with a disability, if you let it, that is.
I thought I would never be happy again. But a few years after becoming paralyzed, I was happy. I found happiness through simply being alive, and through family and friends. I still wish I could walk again, but true happiness resides in me.
2) Patience can get you through almost anything.
You're told as a little kid how important patience is and as an adult you come to see how true this really is. But when you have a disability, the patience required is at a whole new level. Very often we have to wait longer for all types of things and over time we become masters at honing in on it. Patience has even helped me emotionally get over my physical inabilities in certain occasions.
3) Accidents can and will happen.
When you hear about people becoming disabled through an accident, you always think it could never happen to you, and you almost look at it like a TV show or movie -- something that could never be your reality. But the cold-hard truth is that accidents that cause disabilities happen every day, and they could likely happen to you or someone you know. The realness of this possibility is tangible in all lives, but when you have a disability you're just a bit more aware of it.
4) Disability can happen to anyone.
Maybe no congenital disabilities run your family, but say your first baby had cerebral palsy. It's shocking suddenly finding yourself in the camp of either being disabled or the family member of one. The wisdom here is to never forget we are all imperfect physical beings, and to never think you're exempt. We will all die one day and we're all human.
5) Don't sweat the little things.
Since having a disability can be rather stressful -- broken wheelchairs, health insurance cuts, caregivers suddenly quitting -- we learn early on to not let our stress levels get too high. If we did, none of us would make it past 40. We are confronted with crazy things all the time, so we learn to prioritize what is really worth freaking out over. That is why so many of us seem so zen-like. The movie is sold out? The restaurant has a two-hour wait? No biggie. It could always be worse.
6) Being different is an opportunity.
Most people don't like being different or standing out. You have the outgoing Venice Beach type people of the world, but generally most people don't want to be noticed. However, it's not as bad as you'd think. In fact, when you live the life as someone who's different, you learn right away it has its cool moments. You get to meet amazing people and get in on special opportunities. When you're vanilla, no one notices.
7) Fitting in is overrated.
When you have a disability, you pretty much have a free-for-all card to be exactly who you want to be since fitting in with the "in" crowd is impossible anyways and embracing this can be one of the most freeing feelings ever. You don't need to fit in to feel good about yourself or to think you "belong." You belong to yourself, we know this. And that feeling is amazing.
8) You can't judge a person by their looks.
You hear it all the time, don't judge a book by its cover. From Stephen Hawking, a man in a wheelchair who can't speak and is one of the smartest people in the world to Francesco Clark, a quadriplegic and CEO of a huge beauty product company, don't ever think a disability is equitable to someone who is not impressive or successful. You never know what someone with a disability is capable of.
9) Life is short. Embrace everything.
Having a disability can also, unfortunately, have an impact on your lifespan. For many of us, living to 95 isn't probably going to happen, which is why most people with disabilities have figured out the secret to life -- enjoy each day as if it were our last. We all try to do this in our own way, but many of us fail. People with disabilities however, have gotten it down to an art form, from enjoying the sun rays to a warm cup of coffee, we know how hard life can be so we know how to embrace the good things when they present themselves.
10) Weakness isn't always a negative
Just like the notion "it takes a village," being weak or disabled isn't necessarily a negative thing. When living with a disability, you learn to be OK with receiving help, and over time, many of us realize that we all need help in our own way, even athletes and the President of United States. It's unavoidable and part of the human experience.
There's no getting around it, having a disability is certainly a difficult ticket in life, but the life lessons to be had without question make it a near VIP experience. And hey, the free parking is a nice perk, too.
End of article
I really like this article. I agree with every point. There isn't anything that I disagree with. Well written, and on point. Having a disability is difficult, and I'm not going to say that cliched phrase, "I'm a better person for it, and if I had the opportunity to not be disabled, I'd take it." If I had that opportunity, I think I WOULD take it, because my disability and health conditions can lead to serious complications. I know some of my acquaintances with disabilities don't like this article. I think its because the author makes living with a disability sound too easy. She sounds very mentally healthy, and great for her if she really is this "put together." I know I'm not. While cognitively I understand that all these points are true, and I'd like to be able to live my life by them, I'm just not there. I DO sweat the small stuff, unfortunately. I still want to fit in. I'm not patient, especially with myself. I'm a work in progress. As I think most of us are.
librarianintx
by Tiffiny Carlson
No matter the type of person, there are lessons to be learned from them. People with disabilities are especially influential, as our hardships in life aren't easily forgotten. We go through every day with determination and strength, which many people are bowled over by, with many secretly wondering if they could do the same thing.
People with a disabilities learn so much throughout their lives; life lessons that able-bodied people rarely get to experience.
Having a disability is definitely difficult, but it's also one of the richest classrooms a human can experience, too. While these learning experiences are more profound experienced directly, there are some special tokens of wisdom we can pass along.
1) True happiness is really possible in a "broken" body.
Most say they would rather die than live with a disability, which makes me laugh. That's because most able-bodied people can't imagine being happy if their body was ever permanently broken. But the truth is that the human brain is very adept at transitioning into someone with a disability, if you let it, that is.
I thought I would never be happy again. But a few years after becoming paralyzed, I was happy. I found happiness through simply being alive, and through family and friends. I still wish I could walk again, but true happiness resides in me.
2) Patience can get you through almost anything.
You're told as a little kid how important patience is and as an adult you come to see how true this really is. But when you have a disability, the patience required is at a whole new level. Very often we have to wait longer for all types of things and over time we become masters at honing in on it. Patience has even helped me emotionally get over my physical inabilities in certain occasions.
3) Accidents can and will happen.
When you hear about people becoming disabled through an accident, you always think it could never happen to you, and you almost look at it like a TV show or movie -- something that could never be your reality. But the cold-hard truth is that accidents that cause disabilities happen every day, and they could likely happen to you or someone you know. The realness of this possibility is tangible in all lives, but when you have a disability you're just a bit more aware of it.
4) Disability can happen to anyone.
Maybe no congenital disabilities run your family, but say your first baby had cerebral palsy. It's shocking suddenly finding yourself in the camp of either being disabled or the family member of one. The wisdom here is to never forget we are all imperfect physical beings, and to never think you're exempt. We will all die one day and we're all human.
5) Don't sweat the little things.
Since having a disability can be rather stressful -- broken wheelchairs, health insurance cuts, caregivers suddenly quitting -- we learn early on to not let our stress levels get too high. If we did, none of us would make it past 40. We are confronted with crazy things all the time, so we learn to prioritize what is really worth freaking out over. That is why so many of us seem so zen-like. The movie is sold out? The restaurant has a two-hour wait? No biggie. It could always be worse.
6) Being different is an opportunity.
Most people don't like being different or standing out. You have the outgoing Venice Beach type people of the world, but generally most people don't want to be noticed. However, it's not as bad as you'd think. In fact, when you live the life as someone who's different, you learn right away it has its cool moments. You get to meet amazing people and get in on special opportunities. When you're vanilla, no one notices.
7) Fitting in is overrated.
When you have a disability, you pretty much have a free-for-all card to be exactly who you want to be since fitting in with the "in" crowd is impossible anyways and embracing this can be one of the most freeing feelings ever. You don't need to fit in to feel good about yourself or to think you "belong." You belong to yourself, we know this. And that feeling is amazing.
8) You can't judge a person by their looks.
You hear it all the time, don't judge a book by its cover. From Stephen Hawking, a man in a wheelchair who can't speak and is one of the smartest people in the world to Francesco Clark, a quadriplegic and CEO of a huge beauty product company, don't ever think a disability is equitable to someone who is not impressive or successful. You never know what someone with a disability is capable of.
9) Life is short. Embrace everything.
Having a disability can also, unfortunately, have an impact on your lifespan. For many of us, living to 95 isn't probably going to happen, which is why most people with disabilities have figured out the secret to life -- enjoy each day as if it were our last. We all try to do this in our own way, but many of us fail. People with disabilities however, have gotten it down to an art form, from enjoying the sun rays to a warm cup of coffee, we know how hard life can be so we know how to embrace the good things when they present themselves.
10) Weakness isn't always a negative
Just like the notion "it takes a village," being weak or disabled isn't necessarily a negative thing. When living with a disability, you learn to be OK with receiving help, and over time, many of us realize that we all need help in our own way, even athletes and the President of United States. It's unavoidable and part of the human experience.
There's no getting around it, having a disability is certainly a difficult ticket in life, but the life lessons to be had without question make it a near VIP experience. And hey, the free parking is a nice perk, too.
End of article
I really like this article. I agree with every point. There isn't anything that I disagree with. Well written, and on point. Having a disability is difficult, and I'm not going to say that cliched phrase, "I'm a better person for it, and if I had the opportunity to not be disabled, I'd take it." If I had that opportunity, I think I WOULD take it, because my disability and health conditions can lead to serious complications. I know some of my acquaintances with disabilities don't like this article. I think its because the author makes living with a disability sound too easy. She sounds very mentally healthy, and great for her if she really is this "put together." I know I'm not. While cognitively I understand that all these points are true, and I'd like to be able to live my life by them, I'm just not there. I DO sweat the small stuff, unfortunately. I still want to fit in. I'm not patient, especially with myself. I'm a work in progress. As I think most of us are.
librarianintx
Friday, January 10, 2014
Finding time to exercise
Received this in an email at work:
Nine ways to exercise ... when you don't have the time:
http://www.ers.state.tx.us/News/Articles/Nine-ways-to-exercise/
Tips for fitting in fitness
•Wake up a little earlier. Start by setting your alarm clock just five minutes earlier. Do stretches and jumping jacks before getting in the shower, or follow a short exercise DVD.
•Find a workout buddy. Exercising with a friend is more fun than working out alone and a good motivator. Ask a coworker to go for a walk during lunch or see if a neighbor wants to shoot hoops.
•Change into exercise clothes before leaving work. You'll be ready for a short walk as soon as you get home.
•Schedule your fitness activities. If you put exercise on your calendar like other appointments, you're more likely to do it.
•Acknowledge your successes. Keep a log of all the times you make a healthy choice to move more, such as by taking the stairs instead of an elevator. After the first week, reward yourself with a new pair of sneakers or a cool new water bottle.
•Create a home (or desk) gym. If you have equipment always at the ready, it will be easy to steal five minutes to use it. A jump rope, a stability ball, exercise bands, and dumbbells don't cost much or take up much room.
•Move while you watch TV. Don't sit idly--or worse, snack--while watching TV. Do sit-ups or jog in place instead, even if only during commercials.
•Play games with your kids. Don't just keep an eye on your kids when they play outside--join in their fun! Play tag or Duck Duck Goose, or just toss a ball back and forth. If your kids love video games, think about swapping their current console for one that encourages movement, like Wii or Xbox One. The whole family will break a sweat using special controllers to compete at boxing, tennis, golf, and bowling.
•Exercise while you work. Raise your activity level and productivity with neck rolls or arm raises (push hands out to the side and then up toward the ceiling). Or do a few modified push-ups on the edge of your desk.
Stepping it up
After you've built short periods of activity into your day, think about times when you could lengthen each burst by a few minutes. The key is to start small and ramp up gradually.
Even if you're worn out from a busy day, try to make time for fitness. Regular exercise actually boosts your energy level. Exercise, along with restricting calories, is also important for shedding pounds and maintaining a healthy weight.
Next time you look for an excuse to skip exercise, remind yourself of the benefits. You're helping yourself feel good, look better, and live longer. Who wouldn't want that?
End of article
I actually do one of these! Not consistently of course, but I've started "working out" while watching television. Sometimes during the show, but more usually during the commercials, I'll move around, jog a little, exercise my arms. Ten minutes is my goal for now. Sometimes I do the balance exercises that I was given three or four months ago.
I've considered bringing clothes with me to work and changing at the apartment complex office so I can use their fitness equipment without walking into my apartment first, but that hasn't happened yet. Does it count that I have at least THOUGHT about doing it? :)
librarianintx
Nine ways to exercise ... when you don't have the time:
http://www.ers.state.tx.us/News/Articles/Nine-ways-to-exercise/
Tips for fitting in fitness
•Wake up a little earlier. Start by setting your alarm clock just five minutes earlier. Do stretches and jumping jacks before getting in the shower, or follow a short exercise DVD.
•Find a workout buddy. Exercising with a friend is more fun than working out alone and a good motivator. Ask a coworker to go for a walk during lunch or see if a neighbor wants to shoot hoops.
•Change into exercise clothes before leaving work. You'll be ready for a short walk as soon as you get home.
•Schedule your fitness activities. If you put exercise on your calendar like other appointments, you're more likely to do it.
•Acknowledge your successes. Keep a log of all the times you make a healthy choice to move more, such as by taking the stairs instead of an elevator. After the first week, reward yourself with a new pair of sneakers or a cool new water bottle.
•Create a home (or desk) gym. If you have equipment always at the ready, it will be easy to steal five minutes to use it. A jump rope, a stability ball, exercise bands, and dumbbells don't cost much or take up much room.
•Move while you watch TV. Don't sit idly--or worse, snack--while watching TV. Do sit-ups or jog in place instead, even if only during commercials.
•Play games with your kids. Don't just keep an eye on your kids when they play outside--join in their fun! Play tag or Duck Duck Goose, or just toss a ball back and forth. If your kids love video games, think about swapping their current console for one that encourages movement, like Wii or Xbox One. The whole family will break a sweat using special controllers to compete at boxing, tennis, golf, and bowling.
•Exercise while you work. Raise your activity level and productivity with neck rolls or arm raises (push hands out to the side and then up toward the ceiling). Or do a few modified push-ups on the edge of your desk.
Stepping it up
After you've built short periods of activity into your day, think about times when you could lengthen each burst by a few minutes. The key is to start small and ramp up gradually.
Even if you're worn out from a busy day, try to make time for fitness. Regular exercise actually boosts your energy level. Exercise, along with restricting calories, is also important for shedding pounds and maintaining a healthy weight.
Next time you look for an excuse to skip exercise, remind yourself of the benefits. You're helping yourself feel good, look better, and live longer. Who wouldn't want that?
End of article
I actually do one of these! Not consistently of course, but I've started "working out" while watching television. Sometimes during the show, but more usually during the commercials, I'll move around, jog a little, exercise my arms. Ten minutes is my goal for now. Sometimes I do the balance exercises that I was given three or four months ago.
I've considered bringing clothes with me to work and changing at the apartment complex office so I can use their fitness equipment without walking into my apartment first, but that hasn't happened yet. Does it count that I have at least THOUGHT about doing it? :)
librarianintx
Article on holistic ways to combat pain
"Holistic Ways to Fight Pain, and Win"
http://www.cnn.com/2014/01/10/health/secrets-pain-free-life/index.html?hpt=hp_bn13
by Summer Suleiman
...
"Inflammation is the root cause of many illnesses, according to Dr. Reza Ghorbani, medical director of the Advanced Pain Medicine Institute and author of "Secrets to a Pain Free Life." Cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's, arthritis and several digestive disorders have all been linked to chronic inflammation.
Inflammation is a natural part of your immune system; it occurs when the body is fighting against harm or infection. However, chronic inflammation hurts the body instead of healing it because the immune system is essentially attacking healthy cells, according to the National Institutes of Health.
In his book, Ghorbani outlines several methods for treating inflammation.
"I've seen a trend among patients looking for alternative and natural treatment," Ghorbani says. "I think a lot of consumers, whether it's in pain treatment, the food they eat, or what they provide for their family, the trend is to look for something that is safer."
Meditation may improve heart health
Fit Nation learns to eat healthy
Sleep apps a warning sign This year, for the first time ever at the annual American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain (ASRA) conference, experts held a half-day session dedicated to alternative treatments for chronic pain. Physicians are slowly beginning to recognize the importance of looking at pain holistically, says Dr. Asokumar Buvanendran, a board-certified pain management specialist and professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at Rush University Medical Center.
"There are a lot of remedies that are available outside of the traditional means of treating patients," Buvanendran says.
It's not all about herbs and acupuncture. An overall healthy lifestyle, including eating healthy foods and getting the proper amount of exercise, plays a big role in managing chronic pain, experts say.
I was intrigued by the stories I found about the potential healing properties of food and the mind. Skeptical, I started integrating the things I learned into my daily life.
Nearly two years after my diagnosis, my health has been transformed. Each person's experience is different, but these holistic remedies have helped me achieve a better quality of life.
First, find the right doctor
If you are living with pain, and feel that you haven't received the proper treatment, don't give up. Ask your family, friends, and colleagues for recommendations.
"I think patients need to understand that there are alternatives to what doctors normally prescribe for pain treatment," says Ghorbani. "Don't just take the doctor's word for it -- do your homework, too."
I spent most of my life looking before I found the right doctor. Keep searching until you find a doctor you feel comfortable with -- someone who can help you get the treatment you want.
Get adequate sleep
Getting the proper amount of sleep helps the body fight inflammation, pain and disease. A 2009 study published in the medical journal Sleep found people who get less than six hours of sleep, or have disrupted sleep, have higher levels of C-reactive protein in the body, which causes inflammation.
As a journalist working rotating shifts, I was not getting proper sleep and my health suffered because of it. After I was diagnosed, I made adjustments to my lifestyle to allow for enough sleep. I feel healthier and stronger when I have slept sufficiently.
Meditate
Research has shown the many health benefits of meditation. Studies suggest meditation can reduce blood pressure, inflammation, pain response and stress hormone levels, all while increasing concentration and improving sleep. One study funded by the National Institute of Health showed mindful meditation can help with pain regulation through cognitive and emotional control.
I began meditating shortly after I was diagnosed in January 2012. It has been a significant part of my recovery and improved health. There are various websites, books, and guided meditations available online. It can be as simple as taking 10 minutes a day to sit in stillness.
Managing stress is a significant part of healthy living. When stress goes unmanaged, it causes inflammation in the body. In a study done at Ohio State University, researchers showed that people who dwelled on stressful events in their lives, had higher levels of C-reactive protein. Meditation is a helpful tool to help manage stress, and it is available to everyone.
Eat foods that feed you
What you eat has a direct impact on how you feel. According to a study published in Psychosomatic Medicine, women who eat a diet high in red and processed meats, sweets, desserts and refined grains (foods known to promote inflammation) have higher levels of C-reactive protein than those who ate a diet full of fruit, vegetables, legumes, fish, poultry and whole grains.
I've incorporated many natural anti-inflammatory foods into my diet, including ginger, turmeric and cinnamon. I eat fruits and vegetables that are powerful anti-inflammatories such as pomegranates, blueberries and blackberries.
I also do my best to eliminate foods that are inflammatory, such as sugar, one of the biggest culprits. I can feel the difference because of these changes. There is an abundant source of books available on the topic. "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods" and "Secrets to a Pain Free Life" are a good place to start. You can take control of your pain, and your life, by eating right.
"No one should accept pain as a normal part of their life," Ghorbani says.
Don't neglect your brain
Both Buvanendran and Ghorbani believe another big part of treating chronic pain is addressing the psychological impact it has on patients.
"The physiology of pain is really connected to the emotional part of it," Ghorbani says. "It really can exaggerate when you get upset, anxious and depressed, and (in turn) increase your pain level."
Buvanendran says mental health professionals can help patients navigate the emotional terrain of managing chronic pain.
"Patients are sometimes reluctant to see a therapist, but once they see them, they find the benefits to be extraordinary."
Oftentimes loved ones may not fully comprehend the emotional toll that chronic pain can take on you. A therapist can offer the support and guidance that you may need to help you cope with chronic pain.
Your insurance company may provide coverage for a mental health specialist. Do your research and use all the resources available to you.
I found a therapist who specialized in patients with chronic illnesses. She helped me realize that I needed to accept my illness, something I hadn't been able to do, before I could really begin the healing process. I was struggling with the loss of my health, and she helped me to understand that it was OK to feel that way.
Once we were able to work through that, I was able to find gratitude in my new life, and begin to move forward."
End of article
Luckily, I don't suffer from a lot of pain. But as my osteoporosis advances, and other effects of aging take hold, I know my pain levels will increase. Osteoporosis is not due to inflammation, so maybe these ideas won't help. But I think the advice offered in this article would benefit my overall health, not just improve any pain that I have.
I am already trying to institute some of these changes. Unfortunately, I struggle a lot with motivation and keeping to a schedule. For these lifestyle changes to work, you really need to keep up with them on a daily basis. I have to find a way to increase my motivation and decrease my tendency to procrastinate.
Two of the habits outlined in this article that I've been trying to do:
1) meditate
I have a free app on my phone. I also have a book about mindfulness. The app has 10 levels on it. I am at level one, where you are supposed to meditate for 3 minutes a day. I did well with it when I was on vacation. Since I've been back to work, I haven't meditated at all. C'mon! It's only 3 minutes a day!
2) cut down on sugar
My usual daily snack is 3 - 5 cookies per day, or a cupcake or brownies. Plus I often eat a fruit bar, sometimes a granola bar, or a small piece of chocolate. That's a lot of sugar! And I eat white rice, white potatoes, I drink gatorade and apple juice, etc. Everyone tells me not to worry about it, because I'm so thin and need to gain weight. But that much sugar isn't good for anyone, thin or not thin. I'm taking baby steps in this direction, but at least I'm trying to change. Instead of the refined sugar in the cookies and brownies, etc, I'm eating chocolate cheerios for my afternoon snack. I didn't even know they existed! They have more than enough chocolate to satisfy my sweet tooth, and they are a source of whole grain. I'm keeping myself down to one glass of gatorade per day, and trying to drink water and milk the rest of the time. Unfortunately, I do not like brown rice, but I'm trying to mix white and brown when I eat rice. And on some days I'm substituting sweet potatoes for white ones. I eat wheat or rye bread, but I don't eat the better-for-you multi-grain bread.
Am I noticing a difference in how I feel? Do I have more energy and feel more healthy? Unfortunately, no. But I'm not expecting to. I have only just started making these changes. And I'm not being consistent yet. Motivation and consistency - I need both of these if I'm going to be successful in whatever I'm trying to achieve.
librarianintx
http://www.cnn.com/2014/01/10/health/secrets-pain-free-life/index.html?hpt=hp_bn13
by Summer Suleiman
...
"Inflammation is the root cause of many illnesses, according to Dr. Reza Ghorbani, medical director of the Advanced Pain Medicine Institute and author of "Secrets to a Pain Free Life." Cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's, arthritis and several digestive disorders have all been linked to chronic inflammation.
Inflammation is a natural part of your immune system; it occurs when the body is fighting against harm or infection. However, chronic inflammation hurts the body instead of healing it because the immune system is essentially attacking healthy cells, according to the National Institutes of Health.
In his book, Ghorbani outlines several methods for treating inflammation.
"I've seen a trend among patients looking for alternative and natural treatment," Ghorbani says. "I think a lot of consumers, whether it's in pain treatment, the food they eat, or what they provide for their family, the trend is to look for something that is safer."
Meditation may improve heart health
Fit Nation learns to eat healthy
Sleep apps a warning sign This year, for the first time ever at the annual American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain (ASRA) conference, experts held a half-day session dedicated to alternative treatments for chronic pain. Physicians are slowly beginning to recognize the importance of looking at pain holistically, says Dr. Asokumar Buvanendran, a board-certified pain management specialist and professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at Rush University Medical Center.
"There are a lot of remedies that are available outside of the traditional means of treating patients," Buvanendran says.
It's not all about herbs and acupuncture. An overall healthy lifestyle, including eating healthy foods and getting the proper amount of exercise, plays a big role in managing chronic pain, experts say.
I was intrigued by the stories I found about the potential healing properties of food and the mind. Skeptical, I started integrating the things I learned into my daily life.
Nearly two years after my diagnosis, my health has been transformed. Each person's experience is different, but these holistic remedies have helped me achieve a better quality of life.
First, find the right doctor
If you are living with pain, and feel that you haven't received the proper treatment, don't give up. Ask your family, friends, and colleagues for recommendations.
"I think patients need to understand that there are alternatives to what doctors normally prescribe for pain treatment," says Ghorbani. "Don't just take the doctor's word for it -- do your homework, too."
I spent most of my life looking before I found the right doctor. Keep searching until you find a doctor you feel comfortable with -- someone who can help you get the treatment you want.
Get adequate sleep
Getting the proper amount of sleep helps the body fight inflammation, pain and disease. A 2009 study published in the medical journal Sleep found people who get less than six hours of sleep, or have disrupted sleep, have higher levels of C-reactive protein in the body, which causes inflammation.
As a journalist working rotating shifts, I was not getting proper sleep and my health suffered because of it. After I was diagnosed, I made adjustments to my lifestyle to allow for enough sleep. I feel healthier and stronger when I have slept sufficiently.
Meditate
Research has shown the many health benefits of meditation. Studies suggest meditation can reduce blood pressure, inflammation, pain response and stress hormone levels, all while increasing concentration and improving sleep. One study funded by the National Institute of Health showed mindful meditation can help with pain regulation through cognitive and emotional control.
I began meditating shortly after I was diagnosed in January 2012. It has been a significant part of my recovery and improved health. There are various websites, books, and guided meditations available online. It can be as simple as taking 10 minutes a day to sit in stillness.
Managing stress is a significant part of healthy living. When stress goes unmanaged, it causes inflammation in the body. In a study done at Ohio State University, researchers showed that people who dwelled on stressful events in their lives, had higher levels of C-reactive protein. Meditation is a helpful tool to help manage stress, and it is available to everyone.
Eat foods that feed you
What you eat has a direct impact on how you feel. According to a study published in Psychosomatic Medicine, women who eat a diet high in red and processed meats, sweets, desserts and refined grains (foods known to promote inflammation) have higher levels of C-reactive protein than those who ate a diet full of fruit, vegetables, legumes, fish, poultry and whole grains.
I've incorporated many natural anti-inflammatory foods into my diet, including ginger, turmeric and cinnamon. I eat fruits and vegetables that are powerful anti-inflammatories such as pomegranates, blueberries and blackberries.
I also do my best to eliminate foods that are inflammatory, such as sugar, one of the biggest culprits. I can feel the difference because of these changes. There is an abundant source of books available on the topic. "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods" and "Secrets to a Pain Free Life" are a good place to start. You can take control of your pain, and your life, by eating right.
"No one should accept pain as a normal part of their life," Ghorbani says.
Don't neglect your brain
Both Buvanendran and Ghorbani believe another big part of treating chronic pain is addressing the psychological impact it has on patients.
"The physiology of pain is really connected to the emotional part of it," Ghorbani says. "It really can exaggerate when you get upset, anxious and depressed, and (in turn) increase your pain level."
Buvanendran says mental health professionals can help patients navigate the emotional terrain of managing chronic pain.
"Patients are sometimes reluctant to see a therapist, but once they see them, they find the benefits to be extraordinary."
Oftentimes loved ones may not fully comprehend the emotional toll that chronic pain can take on you. A therapist can offer the support and guidance that you may need to help you cope with chronic pain.
Your insurance company may provide coverage for a mental health specialist. Do your research and use all the resources available to you.
I found a therapist who specialized in patients with chronic illnesses. She helped me realize that I needed to accept my illness, something I hadn't been able to do, before I could really begin the healing process. I was struggling with the loss of my health, and she helped me to understand that it was OK to feel that way.
Once we were able to work through that, I was able to find gratitude in my new life, and begin to move forward."
End of article
Luckily, I don't suffer from a lot of pain. But as my osteoporosis advances, and other effects of aging take hold, I know my pain levels will increase. Osteoporosis is not due to inflammation, so maybe these ideas won't help. But I think the advice offered in this article would benefit my overall health, not just improve any pain that I have.
I am already trying to institute some of these changes. Unfortunately, I struggle a lot with motivation and keeping to a schedule. For these lifestyle changes to work, you really need to keep up with them on a daily basis. I have to find a way to increase my motivation and decrease my tendency to procrastinate.
Two of the habits outlined in this article that I've been trying to do:
1) meditate
I have a free app on my phone. I also have a book about mindfulness. The app has 10 levels on it. I am at level one, where you are supposed to meditate for 3 minutes a day. I did well with it when I was on vacation. Since I've been back to work, I haven't meditated at all. C'mon! It's only 3 minutes a day!
2) cut down on sugar
My usual daily snack is 3 - 5 cookies per day, or a cupcake or brownies. Plus I often eat a fruit bar, sometimes a granola bar, or a small piece of chocolate. That's a lot of sugar! And I eat white rice, white potatoes, I drink gatorade and apple juice, etc. Everyone tells me not to worry about it, because I'm so thin and need to gain weight. But that much sugar isn't good for anyone, thin or not thin. I'm taking baby steps in this direction, but at least I'm trying to change. Instead of the refined sugar in the cookies and brownies, etc, I'm eating chocolate cheerios for my afternoon snack. I didn't even know they existed! They have more than enough chocolate to satisfy my sweet tooth, and they are a source of whole grain. I'm keeping myself down to one glass of gatorade per day, and trying to drink water and milk the rest of the time. Unfortunately, I do not like brown rice, but I'm trying to mix white and brown when I eat rice. And on some days I'm substituting sweet potatoes for white ones. I eat wheat or rye bread, but I don't eat the better-for-you multi-grain bread.
Am I noticing a difference in how I feel? Do I have more energy and feel more healthy? Unfortunately, no. But I'm not expecting to. I have only just started making these changes. And I'm not being consistent yet. Motivation and consistency - I need both of these if I'm going to be successful in whatever I'm trying to achieve.
librarianintx
Thursday, January 09, 2014
Kat Kinsman article on battle with anxiety
http://www.cnn.com/2014/01/08/living/anxiety-coping/
This is a long article, and a great one, about what it feels like to battle anxiety on a daily basis. Here are the paragraphs that resonated the most with me:
""You're so useless. You let down the people you love. Everyone who's been stupid enough to love you will regret it when they realize how weak you are." It goes on and on until my body just shuts down for a couple of hours."
"Anxiety hurts. It's the precise inverse of joy and blots out pleasure at its whim, leaving a dull, faded outline of the happiness that was supposed to happen. It's also as sneaky as hell."
"What am I afraid will happen? There's no easy answer to that. Anxiety is not easily explicable or rational -- at least not to those who don't suffer from it -- and that only compounds the problem."
"But Generalized Anxiety Disorder (300.02 in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and the single most common mental health diagnosis) is more nebulous than that. It's free-floating fear that metastasizes until it's all-consuming and often debilitating. For me, it's physically painful, from stomach, head and muscle aches to exhaustion from chronic insomnia to raw thumb skin that I've picked at until it bled -- and kept picking some more."
"It's deeply alienating to friends who assume that I didn't come to their party, show up at their event or call to explain because I didn't care enough or didn't love them anymore. It's perhaps even more humiliating to explain that I was too terrified to leave my house and interact with people in person where they could see what a drab, value-free mess of a person I am and that they'd made a mistake for ever liking me in the first place."
"Anti-anxiety medications work beautifully for millions of people. The withdrawal from a particularly wicked one nearly ended me, and the brain zaps (those are sharp, horrifying electrical currents you can physically feel inside your head) and metabolic sluggishness increasingly outweighed any benefits while I was on it. Perhaps I will change my mind someday, but for now that's not an option."
"I'm sick to death of feeling ashamed for this illness, am just plain worn out from the physical fight and angry that I've let it thieve so much life and time with my loved ones."
So I posted a good chunk of the article. Thank you, Kat Kinsman, for posting it, and for your bravery in sharing your struggle with the world. I've shared bits and pieces of my fight on this blog. Writing about it, talking about it, is hard, because you feel embarrassed. You think everyone is in control all the time, but they're really not. You don't want to look weak, or crazy, or both. And you think if people know, they will be looking at you all the time, waiting for you to have an attack. They will either shy away from you because they are uncomfortable, or they will become overprotective. But I have come to realize two important concepts: 1) People can rarely tell when you're having an attack, even people who are emotionally close to you, and 2) People are busy with their own lives. They care about you, they worry about you, but they also have their own lives to lead. They have better things to do (usually!) than stand or sit around, waiting for you to have an attack.
And two more important concepts, even more important than the first two:
1) An attack always goes away. ALWAYS. Some are worse than others, some last longer than others, but they always come to an end. Often if I can focus on something - a book, a game, a puzzle, a television show - I don't even realize until later that the attack has come and gone. Its often very hard to tell yourself that when its happening, but I think its helpful to remind yourself of that when its not happening. Sometimes when I'm concentrating on something, I'll stop for a minute and say to myself, "Oh wow, I was having a hard time like an hour ago, and now I'm fine. Cool."
2) Try to live in the moment. This has been a revelation for me. I realized that my ruminations are worries about what COULD happen. And yes, it is within the realm of possibility that someone I love could die in a car accident, or I could accidentally burn down my apartment, or I could fall and break a hip, or any number of calamities. But they haven't happened YET. And there is a good chance they won't. At least not today. Learn to live in the moment. Right now, at this moment, everything is okay. And that is all the information I need. Worrying about what might happen is pointless. The future is out of my control, at least for stuff like that. Live in the moment, and revel in the fact that in this moment, you are okay, and life is good. Learning to live in the moment has the power to increase joy and decrease worry I think. Whenever a rumination pops into my head now, I try to say to myself, "Stay in the moment. Stop worrying about the future. This has not happened, and hopefully never will. Live for today."
More to come.
librarianintx
This is a long article, and a great one, about what it feels like to battle anxiety on a daily basis. Here are the paragraphs that resonated the most with me:
""You're so useless. You let down the people you love. Everyone who's been stupid enough to love you will regret it when they realize how weak you are." It goes on and on until my body just shuts down for a couple of hours."
"Anxiety hurts. It's the precise inverse of joy and blots out pleasure at its whim, leaving a dull, faded outline of the happiness that was supposed to happen. It's also as sneaky as hell."
"What am I afraid will happen? There's no easy answer to that. Anxiety is not easily explicable or rational -- at least not to those who don't suffer from it -- and that only compounds the problem."
"But Generalized Anxiety Disorder (300.02 in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and the single most common mental health diagnosis) is more nebulous than that. It's free-floating fear that metastasizes until it's all-consuming and often debilitating. For me, it's physically painful, from stomach, head and muscle aches to exhaustion from chronic insomnia to raw thumb skin that I've picked at until it bled -- and kept picking some more."
"It's deeply alienating to friends who assume that I didn't come to their party, show up at their event or call to explain because I didn't care enough or didn't love them anymore. It's perhaps even more humiliating to explain that I was too terrified to leave my house and interact with people in person where they could see what a drab, value-free mess of a person I am and that they'd made a mistake for ever liking me in the first place."
"Anti-anxiety medications work beautifully for millions of people. The withdrawal from a particularly wicked one nearly ended me, and the brain zaps (those are sharp, horrifying electrical currents you can physically feel inside your head) and metabolic sluggishness increasingly outweighed any benefits while I was on it. Perhaps I will change my mind someday, but for now that's not an option."
"I'm sick to death of feeling ashamed for this illness, am just plain worn out from the physical fight and angry that I've let it thieve so much life and time with my loved ones."
So I posted a good chunk of the article. Thank you, Kat Kinsman, for posting it, and for your bravery in sharing your struggle with the world. I've shared bits and pieces of my fight on this blog. Writing about it, talking about it, is hard, because you feel embarrassed. You think everyone is in control all the time, but they're really not. You don't want to look weak, or crazy, or both. And you think if people know, they will be looking at you all the time, waiting for you to have an attack. They will either shy away from you because they are uncomfortable, or they will become overprotective. But I have come to realize two important concepts: 1) People can rarely tell when you're having an attack, even people who are emotionally close to you, and 2) People are busy with their own lives. They care about you, they worry about you, but they also have their own lives to lead. They have better things to do (usually!) than stand or sit around, waiting for you to have an attack.
And two more important concepts, even more important than the first two:
1) An attack always goes away. ALWAYS. Some are worse than others, some last longer than others, but they always come to an end. Often if I can focus on something - a book, a game, a puzzle, a television show - I don't even realize until later that the attack has come and gone. Its often very hard to tell yourself that when its happening, but I think its helpful to remind yourself of that when its not happening. Sometimes when I'm concentrating on something, I'll stop for a minute and say to myself, "Oh wow, I was having a hard time like an hour ago, and now I'm fine. Cool."
2) Try to live in the moment. This has been a revelation for me. I realized that my ruminations are worries about what COULD happen. And yes, it is within the realm of possibility that someone I love could die in a car accident, or I could accidentally burn down my apartment, or I could fall and break a hip, or any number of calamities. But they haven't happened YET. And there is a good chance they won't. At least not today. Learn to live in the moment. Right now, at this moment, everything is okay. And that is all the information I need. Worrying about what might happen is pointless. The future is out of my control, at least for stuff like that. Live in the moment, and revel in the fact that in this moment, you are okay, and life is good. Learning to live in the moment has the power to increase joy and decrease worry I think. Whenever a rumination pops into my head now, I try to say to myself, "Stay in the moment. Stop worrying about the future. This has not happened, and hopefully never will. Live for today."
More to come.
librarianintx
Saturday, September 28, 2013
So You Think You Can Dance
I know I'm weeks late in posting this, but better late than never, right?
My picks for top 4 all made it! Hooray for Aaron, Amy, Fik-shun, and Jasmine!
Of course I'm glad that Fik-shun won. He's been my favorite guy the entire season. But I have to admit that I do feel a bit unsettled that he won. Other non-trained male dancers have won, of course. I'm talking about Joshua and Russell. But I do think they were stronger overall dancers. Especially Joshua. But we have to keep in mind what the judges and Cat tell us all the time: SYTYCD is about finding America's FAVORITE dancer, not America's BEST dancer. So if you remember that, then I definitely think that Fik-shun was the right choice.
For sure this season no one was criticized more than Fik-shun. Blu-Print and Curtis were also criticized a lot, but they were eliminated earlier in the competition. The girls were rarely found fault with this season. I felt bad for Fik-shun. Several times during the critiques for his performances with Amy or an all star, Nigel in particular would go back to the group number to pick him apart. "You were the only one who wasn't..." he would needle. I didn't think that was fair. But I do understand that criticism can make you better at your craft, and definitely Fik-shun did grow during his time on the show. He took in all the negativity with that mega-watt smile on his face, and those eyes full of joy, and he just kept dancing. I am thrilled for him. He without a doubt made the season for me.
Aaron should feel SO proud of himself. He went from not even on the show to top 4! And the first tapper to do so! He also has a great personality; I loved his and Fik-shun's routine. Paul is a great dancer, and I was shocked that he didn't make top 4. He was very popular. I just didn't connect with him on a personality level.
I love both Amy and Jasmine. I can't choose between them. I'm thrilled for Amy and sad for Jasmine. I admit that when the season started I didn't have high expectations for Jasmine. I thought she would go out early and that her biggest draw was that she was Cyrus' ex-girlfriend. Boy, did she prove me wrong! Jasmine is amazing! She has the best legs ever on SYTYCD. And she went for it on every routine. I wish both she and Amy could have won. I think what put Amy over the top were her routines with Travis and Robert. They were both beyond stunning.
Overall, I thought this season was good, but not great. For me, I don't think this cast is going to be remembered like other seasons. Many of the dancers were very strong, especially the girls, but not very memorable unfortunately. If you put Amy, Jenna, Haley, Makenzie, Alexis, and Brittany in a row, I don't think I could tell you who was who. Especially Haley and Makenzie. Great dancers they are, but are we going to be talking about them like we still talk about Allison and Heidi and Katherine and Melanie? Many of the routines were wonderful, but would they make any top 10 lists?
I'll list my top 5 most memorable / favorite routines of the season, in no particular order, off the top of my head:
Jasmine and Alan's "blindfold" routine
Amy and Fik-shun's bellhop routine
Amy and Fik-shun's waitress routine
Jenna and Mark K.'s routine
Tucker and Robert's brother routine
And I have to also mention Comfort's reptile walk. I can't say I loved the routine, but her reptile walk was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen on this show. How did she do that?!?! That girl is mad talented! :)
librarianintx
My picks for top 4 all made it! Hooray for Aaron, Amy, Fik-shun, and Jasmine!
Of course I'm glad that Fik-shun won. He's been my favorite guy the entire season. But I have to admit that I do feel a bit unsettled that he won. Other non-trained male dancers have won, of course. I'm talking about Joshua and Russell. But I do think they were stronger overall dancers. Especially Joshua. But we have to keep in mind what the judges and Cat tell us all the time: SYTYCD is about finding America's FAVORITE dancer, not America's BEST dancer. So if you remember that, then I definitely think that Fik-shun was the right choice.
For sure this season no one was criticized more than Fik-shun. Blu-Print and Curtis were also criticized a lot, but they were eliminated earlier in the competition. The girls were rarely found fault with this season. I felt bad for Fik-shun. Several times during the critiques for his performances with Amy or an all star, Nigel in particular would go back to the group number to pick him apart. "You were the only one who wasn't..." he would needle. I didn't think that was fair. But I do understand that criticism can make you better at your craft, and definitely Fik-shun did grow during his time on the show. He took in all the negativity with that mega-watt smile on his face, and those eyes full of joy, and he just kept dancing. I am thrilled for him. He without a doubt made the season for me.
Aaron should feel SO proud of himself. He went from not even on the show to top 4! And the first tapper to do so! He also has a great personality; I loved his and Fik-shun's routine. Paul is a great dancer, and I was shocked that he didn't make top 4. He was very popular. I just didn't connect with him on a personality level.
I love both Amy and Jasmine. I can't choose between them. I'm thrilled for Amy and sad for Jasmine. I admit that when the season started I didn't have high expectations for Jasmine. I thought she would go out early and that her biggest draw was that she was Cyrus' ex-girlfriend. Boy, did she prove me wrong! Jasmine is amazing! She has the best legs ever on SYTYCD. And she went for it on every routine. I wish both she and Amy could have won. I think what put Amy over the top were her routines with Travis and Robert. They were both beyond stunning.
Overall, I thought this season was good, but not great. For me, I don't think this cast is going to be remembered like other seasons. Many of the dancers were very strong, especially the girls, but not very memorable unfortunately. If you put Amy, Jenna, Haley, Makenzie, Alexis, and Brittany in a row, I don't think I could tell you who was who. Especially Haley and Makenzie. Great dancers they are, but are we going to be talking about them like we still talk about Allison and Heidi and Katherine and Melanie? Many of the routines were wonderful, but would they make any top 10 lists?
I'll list my top 5 most memorable / favorite routines of the season, in no particular order, off the top of my head:
Jasmine and Alan's "blindfold" routine
Amy and Fik-shun's bellhop routine
Amy and Fik-shun's waitress routine
Jenna and Mark K.'s routine
Tucker and Robert's brother routine
And I have to also mention Comfort's reptile walk. I can't say I loved the routine, but her reptile walk was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen on this show. How did she do that?!?! That girl is mad talented! :)
librarianintx
Dancing with the Stars Week 2
Latin Week! I love Latin Week! Overall I thought it was a pretty good show, but I did think some of the judges scores were a little generous. Here are my top 4, in order:
1) Corbin and Karina
Great routine! The high school sports theme really stood out among all the sequins and flash of the other costumes and set designs. Corbin is definitely the strongest of the guys, and he is in it to win it. He is a very strong contender for the title.
2) Elizabeth and Val
Wow, that was a fast samba! Elizabeth really kept up with Val. I liked her red dress and she looked great in it, but I thought she was a little covered up for a samba. I thought at some point Val might rip the skirt off or something. :)
3) Amber and Derek
A super cute routine. I do agree with Bruno though - that was much more lindy hop than a jive. Her outfit and shoes definitely read lindy hop. They had great energy, and I enjoyed it.
4) Brant and Peta
They made my best list for one thing really - their chemistry. That was quite a sexy routine. I didn't think Brant did all that much in the dance, but he did smolder, so...it worked for me! :)
librarinaintx
1) Corbin and Karina
Great routine! The high school sports theme really stood out among all the sequins and flash of the other costumes and set designs. Corbin is definitely the strongest of the guys, and he is in it to win it. He is a very strong contender for the title.
2) Elizabeth and Val
Wow, that was a fast samba! Elizabeth really kept up with Val. I liked her red dress and she looked great in it, but I thought she was a little covered up for a samba. I thought at some point Val might rip the skirt off or something. :)
3) Amber and Derek
A super cute routine. I do agree with Bruno though - that was much more lindy hop than a jive. Her outfit and shoes definitely read lindy hop. They had great energy, and I enjoyed it.
4) Brant and Peta
They made my best list for one thing really - their chemistry. That was quite a sexy routine. I didn't think Brant did all that much in the dance, but he did smolder, so...it worked for me! :)
librarinaintx
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Big Brother Finale
Andy won the final HOH...blah
Andy and GinaMarie were the final two...blah
Andy won...blah
Elissa won the viewer vote...meh. Judd and Howard were also in the running...cool.
Julie's dress...thumbs up!
Quote of the show:
"Did I say anything Julie?" Spencer, referring to how controversial the season was. The members of the jury and the final two at that point had no idea how much the nation was talking about them.
Julie's reply: "We don't have enough time."
What a difference a day makes.
Until next summer, BB'ers.
librarianintx
Andy and GinaMarie were the final two...blah
Andy won...blah
Elissa won the viewer vote...meh. Judd and Howard were also in the running...cool.
Julie's dress...thumbs up!
Quote of the show:
"Did I say anything Julie?" Spencer, referring to how controversial the season was. The members of the jury and the final two at that point had no idea how much the nation was talking about them.
Julie's reply: "We don't have enough time."
What a difference a day makes.
Until next summer, BB'ers.
librarianintx
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Dancing with the Stars Week 1
It was a good show! I was pleasantly surprised. I like the new format. It flows better. Still a little too much time with Brooke. But overall, I'm happy.
Although I think the women are much stronger than the men this season, Corbin has a good chance of winning. That contemporary routine was amazing. One thing you have to say about Karina...she will put herself in danger to make the routine exciting. It was beautiful, passionate, and definitely exciting.
And then we have to talk about Miss Riley. Girl kicked that cha cha's ASS!! I'm a huge Glee fan of course, so it was so much fun to see so many cast members in the audience - Chris, Kevin, Ashley, Jenna, Diana - Harry was supposed to be there too, but I didn't see him. To say they were enthusiastic is an understatement. And Chris was there with his boyfriend. SO cute! Okay, back to Amber. It was a fantastic routine. She is going to be fun to watch this season.
To round out my top three - Snookie, of all people! People like Elizabeth and Christina might have been technically better, but I really enjoyed Snookie's dance. She got a song where she could shake what her momma gave her, and she did. :) Like Carrie Ann said, I like people who go for it, and she went for it.
Pretty much every season I say, "Well, I may not watch this season. I don't care about most of the cast, and I'm already watching too many shows." And then I watch the first episode...and I'm hooked.
Here we go again! :)
librarianintx
Although I think the women are much stronger than the men this season, Corbin has a good chance of winning. That contemporary routine was amazing. One thing you have to say about Karina...she will put herself in danger to make the routine exciting. It was beautiful, passionate, and definitely exciting.
And then we have to talk about Miss Riley. Girl kicked that cha cha's ASS!! I'm a huge Glee fan of course, so it was so much fun to see so many cast members in the audience - Chris, Kevin, Ashley, Jenna, Diana - Harry was supposed to be there too, but I didn't see him. To say they were enthusiastic is an understatement. And Chris was there with his boyfriend. SO cute! Okay, back to Amber. It was a fantastic routine. She is going to be fun to watch this season.
To round out my top three - Snookie, of all people! People like Elizabeth and Christina might have been technically better, but I really enjoyed Snookie's dance. She got a song where she could shake what her momma gave her, and she did. :) Like Carrie Ann said, I like people who go for it, and she went for it.
Pretty much every season I say, "Well, I may not watch this season. I don't care about most of the cast, and I'm already watching too many shows." And then I watch the first episode...and I'm hooked.
Here we go again! :)
librarianintx
Big Brother Season 15
The last night of Big Brother for 2013. What a controversial season it has been. Honestly, I don't care who wins. I don't care for anyone in the final three. I actually grew to dislike pretty much everyone this season. I think Judd has a good shot at the fan favorite vote, and I'm okay with that. I like Judd.
I don't agree that the exterminators were the ones who got Aaryn out of the house. They are pretty full of themselves if they think that. Amanda was still in the house at that point. Amanda called the shots until the day she got kicked out. Nice try, exterminators.
I think GinaMarie became a more likeable person when all of the girls were out of the house. I think she is one of those girls who doesn't get along well with other girls. I could ALMOST root for her...until I remember how she treated Candice. How she and Aaryn treated Candice. GinaMarie can be as much of a bully as Amanda. So I can't root for GinaMarie.
Hard to know how the jury will vote. If Andy makes it to the final two, will they reward him or punish him for backstabbing several of them? It appears that a few in the jury think he's a good player. I think he was lucky. He rode on McCranda's coattails for most of the summer. He calls himself an exterminator. I call him an informant. It's a fancy synonym for tattletale.
Enjoy the show BB'ers!
librarianintx
I don't agree that the exterminators were the ones who got Aaryn out of the house. They are pretty full of themselves if they think that. Amanda was still in the house at that point. Amanda called the shots until the day she got kicked out. Nice try, exterminators.
I think GinaMarie became a more likeable person when all of the girls were out of the house. I think she is one of those girls who doesn't get along well with other girls. I could ALMOST root for her...until I remember how she treated Candice. How she and Aaryn treated Candice. GinaMarie can be as much of a bully as Amanda. So I can't root for GinaMarie.
Hard to know how the jury will vote. If Andy makes it to the final two, will they reward him or punish him for backstabbing several of them? It appears that a few in the jury think he's a good player. I think he was lucky. He rode on McCranda's coattails for most of the summer. He calls himself an exterminator. I call him an informant. It's a fancy synonym for tattletale.
Enjoy the show BB'ers!
librarianintx
Thursday, September 05, 2013
Diana Nyad
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/sports/july-dec13/nyad_09-03.html
"Diana Nyad Says Record-Setting Swim Was About Being 'Fully Engaged' in Life"
Quote from article:
"And I wanted to swim this endeavor not to just be the athletic record. I wanted it to be a lesson for my life that says, be fully engaged. Be so awake and alert and alive every minute of every waking day, because that's where I had to be for these fortunately years to get this done."
My thoughts:
The fifth time was the charm for Diana Nyad. Five times she has attempted to swim from Cuba to the Florida Keys. Four times she has been unsuccessful. During those four attempts she suffered jellyfish attacks, asthma attacks, shoulder pain, lightening storms, and currents that pushed her far off course.
Diana Nyad is perseverance personified. Each failed attempt gave her the information she needed to ultimately achieve success. Diana didn't let anything stop her from reaching her goal. She didn't let her age prevent her. She didn't let the naysayers deter her. She didn't let the jellyfish stings, the persistent vomiting, the weakness from the vomiting, the sores caused by the jellyfish mask...none of it caused her to give up this time. She pushed through all of it, and she finished that swim.
To be honest, I don't understand why someone would spend so many years trying to do something like this. Why anyone would put her body through such torment, and risk not only her life, but the lives of her crew as well. But while I don't comprehend the why, I still can applaud and appreciate the effort, the determination, the "never give up" attitude. When you think you can't do something, when you're convinced that what you're attempting is just too difficult, think of Diana Nyad.
And then try again.
"You're never too old to chase your dreams" Diana Nyad
librarianintx
"Diana Nyad Says Record-Setting Swim Was About Being 'Fully Engaged' in Life"
Quote from article:
"And I wanted to swim this endeavor not to just be the athletic record. I wanted it to be a lesson for my life that says, be fully engaged. Be so awake and alert and alive every minute of every waking day, because that's where I had to be for these fortunately years to get this done."
My thoughts:
The fifth time was the charm for Diana Nyad. Five times she has attempted to swim from Cuba to the Florida Keys. Four times she has been unsuccessful. During those four attempts she suffered jellyfish attacks, asthma attacks, shoulder pain, lightening storms, and currents that pushed her far off course.
Diana Nyad is perseverance personified. Each failed attempt gave her the information she needed to ultimately achieve success. Diana didn't let anything stop her from reaching her goal. She didn't let her age prevent her. She didn't let the naysayers deter her. She didn't let the jellyfish stings, the persistent vomiting, the weakness from the vomiting, the sores caused by the jellyfish mask...none of it caused her to give up this time. She pushed through all of it, and she finished that swim.
To be honest, I don't understand why someone would spend so many years trying to do something like this. Why anyone would put her body through such torment, and risk not only her life, but the lives of her crew as well. But while I don't comprehend the why, I still can applaud and appreciate the effort, the determination, the "never give up" attitude. When you think you can't do something, when you're convinced that what you're attempting is just too difficult, think of Diana Nyad.
And then try again.
"You're never too old to chase your dreams" Diana Nyad
librarianintx
Big Brother Season 15 9-5-13
Wow...a busy night of BB!!
But first, I have to go back to last week for a second. Aaryn....please do not insinuate that you speak for an entire state. Texas might still be a red state, but not all of its inhabitants are racist and homophobic. Your wide-eyed, innocent, "Southerners say those things" bullshit was both laughable and hugely insulting. Hope you have fun looking for a new job.
And now on to tonight. Thank goodness Amanda is finally gone! But what was with Elissa trying to save her at the last minute? What a terrible move on her part. All of her effort went for naught, as Andy flipped yet again, which forced GinaMarie to break the tie. Amanda absolutely tormented Elissa, but somehow Elissa thought that aligning herself with the power couple of the house would get her farther in the game? *shakes head*
Of the people left, I'm definitely rooting for Judd. He's a good guy that hasn't tried to hurt anyone. GinaMarie is a bully. Andy is a tattletale. Spencer is anti-Semitic. I think McCrae is actually a good guy as well, and I wouldn't mind if he won, except knowing that the money would really go to Amanda.
Go Judd!
librarianintx
But first, I have to go back to last week for a second. Aaryn....please do not insinuate that you speak for an entire state. Texas might still be a red state, but not all of its inhabitants are racist and homophobic. Your wide-eyed, innocent, "Southerners say those things" bullshit was both laughable and hugely insulting. Hope you have fun looking for a new job.
And now on to tonight. Thank goodness Amanda is finally gone! But what was with Elissa trying to save her at the last minute? What a terrible move on her part. All of her effort went for naught, as Andy flipped yet again, which forced GinaMarie to break the tie. Amanda absolutely tormented Elissa, but somehow Elissa thought that aligning herself with the power couple of the house would get her farther in the game? *shakes head*
Of the people left, I'm definitely rooting for Judd. He's a good guy that hasn't tried to hurt anyone. GinaMarie is a bully. Andy is a tattletale. Spencer is anti-Semitic. I think McCrae is actually a good guy as well, and I wouldn't mind if he won, except knowing that the money would really go to Amanda.
Go Judd!
librarianintx
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Adventure
Yesterday my oldest niece left her home for a semester abroad. She will be based in one country, but because everything is so close in Europe, she will have the opportunity to visit multiple countries during her three plus months there.
This is an outstanding opportunity for her, and I know she will make every moment count. Luckily this girl takes after her father. He is a do-er, an adventurer. He has travelled all over the world with his job: UAE, Algeria, Singapore, Shanghai, Buenos Aires, Rome, just to name a few. My niece is not infected with the worry gene that plagues her mother's side of the family. Or if she has it, she has been able to control it. Her mother has learned over the years, in large part because of her husband I think, to have more control over this. She has been able to fly with my brother-in-law to Rome and to Buenos Aires, and to go with the family to Hawaii. They also took a cruise once. She didn't love the cruise, but she did it.
Someone asked me the other day if I was jealous of my niece. Not jealous, but envious, yes. I am a history nut, and to have the opportunity to visit Europe, especially England and Ireland, would be beyond amazing. But I don't see it ever happening. Money is of course the main obstacle. Physical health is a problem as well. But even if I somehow had the money to go, and someone to help with the physical aspects of travel, would I? If I'm being honest, I would have to say no. Because the anxiety would be too overwhelming. Too many fears. Fear of flying. Fear of flying over water. Fear of terrorism. Fear of any other number of things. Fear of fear. The list would be long. The physical and mental toll would be so exhausting.
I do still have hope that one day I will be able to get more of a handle on all of this. I have to keep hoping. But in another way I am kind of resigned to it. I've always been this way, and I probably always will be. It's never going to completely go away. I'm trying to just learn to live with it. Try to relax and not let it upset me. Getting mad and frustrated only makes it worse. Be kind to myself. Undertand that it's not my fault, and I'm doing the best I can. Surround myself with people who like me for who I am and are kind to me when I'm anxious, scared, and weird about certain things.
I don't think I'm ever going to see the world in person. But I can see the world through books. On the Internet. And in the pictures and stories of my healthy, brave, strong, intelligent, talented adventurer. She will see the world, and then she will share her knowledge, her experiences, and her memories with me.
librarianintx
This is an outstanding opportunity for her, and I know she will make every moment count. Luckily this girl takes after her father. He is a do-er, an adventurer. He has travelled all over the world with his job: UAE, Algeria, Singapore, Shanghai, Buenos Aires, Rome, just to name a few. My niece is not infected with the worry gene that plagues her mother's side of the family. Or if she has it, she has been able to control it. Her mother has learned over the years, in large part because of her husband I think, to have more control over this. She has been able to fly with my brother-in-law to Rome and to Buenos Aires, and to go with the family to Hawaii. They also took a cruise once. She didn't love the cruise, but she did it.
Someone asked me the other day if I was jealous of my niece. Not jealous, but envious, yes. I am a history nut, and to have the opportunity to visit Europe, especially England and Ireland, would be beyond amazing. But I don't see it ever happening. Money is of course the main obstacle. Physical health is a problem as well. But even if I somehow had the money to go, and someone to help with the physical aspects of travel, would I? If I'm being honest, I would have to say no. Because the anxiety would be too overwhelming. Too many fears. Fear of flying. Fear of flying over water. Fear of terrorism. Fear of any other number of things. Fear of fear. The list would be long. The physical and mental toll would be so exhausting.
I do still have hope that one day I will be able to get more of a handle on all of this. I have to keep hoping. But in another way I am kind of resigned to it. I've always been this way, and I probably always will be. It's never going to completely go away. I'm trying to just learn to live with it. Try to relax and not let it upset me. Getting mad and frustrated only makes it worse. Be kind to myself. Undertand that it's not my fault, and I'm doing the best I can. Surround myself with people who like me for who I am and are kind to me when I'm anxious, scared, and weird about certain things.
I don't think I'm ever going to see the world in person. But I can see the world through books. On the Internet. And in the pictures and stories of my healthy, brave, strong, intelligent, talented adventurer. She will see the world, and then she will share her knowledge, her experiences, and her memories with me.
librarianintx
Big Brother 8-29-13
Spencer could potentially be the swing vote tonight. I feel certain that Judd and GinaMarie will vote to evict Andy. And if Amanda and McCrae figure out that Aaryn and Elissa were starting to work together, then they will vote to keep Andy. I really don't know how Spencer will vote. He has been wanting to work with Aaryn. Hopefully Aaron and Elissa can convince him to evict Andy.
Wait, did I just say that? Did I just write that I want Andy to go home over Aaryn? It's just because I want Amanda out so bad. I'm not rooting for Aaryn. I know Andy said he won't be loyal to McCranda anymore, but sorry, I'm not interested in what Andy says. He's not a key player in this game to me.
Amanda has become one of the most unlikeable people to play Big Brother. She's a huge bully, but then when she feels threatened she turns on the waterworks and becomes the biggest whiner. Aarghh! Please, fellow houseguests, please find a way to get her out next week. She is making the show painful to watch.
Unfortunately, because of football, Big Brother won't be on until after midnight. Sucks! I won't know until Friday afternoon what happens. I like the show, but not enough to get up an hour early to watch it. This means I'll have to stay off Twitter so I don't get spoiled. Facebook should be safe.
librarianintx
Wait, did I just say that? Did I just write that I want Andy to go home over Aaryn? It's just because I want Amanda out so bad. I'm not rooting for Aaryn. I know Andy said he won't be loyal to McCranda anymore, but sorry, I'm not interested in what Andy says. He's not a key player in this game to me.
Amanda has become one of the most unlikeable people to play Big Brother. She's a huge bully, but then when she feels threatened she turns on the waterworks and becomes the biggest whiner. Aarghh! Please, fellow houseguests, please find a way to get her out next week. She is making the show painful to watch.
Unfortunately, because of football, Big Brother won't be on until after midnight. Sucks! I won't know until Friday afternoon what happens. I like the show, but not enough to get up an hour early to watch it. This means I'll have to stay off Twitter so I don't get spoiled. Facebook should be safe.
librarianintx
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Big Brother 15
What was going to be my prediction / strategy analysis for tonight's episode will now be a rant against posting spoilers online. People, please. I'm getting old. My memory isn't what it used to be. Usually I save the last few episodes on my DVR so I can refer back to them if necessary when writing a blog post. I've even taken notes - about who won HOH, who was nominated for eviction, blah blah. But I just went to look up one piece of information - and found out EVERYTHING that happened tonight - on wikipedia! COME ON! If you're going to post spoilers, fine, but do it in such a way that people can avoid them if they want to. I found out who won POV, and if that changed the nominations. It was in a grid with all the other information from this season. All I'm asking is that information NOT be posted until after the episode airs. Some people don't want to be spoiled. Some people want to make predictions and analyze the situation first. Our predictions may or not be stupid...but let us make them first!! Let us have our fun, let us use our brains a little, even if it is just for a silly television show. Geez! :-(
librarianintx
librarianintx
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Big Brother
I'm sorry I haven't blogged in a few weeks.
I'm still enjoying the season. But I don't have a favorite. Not even close. In fact, until Judd came back into the house, I didn't like anyone. Elissa is okay, but she can get on my nerves. I'm a girlie girl, but Elissa is beyond a girlie girl. I sort of like McCrae, but unfortunately the fact that he is with Amanda keeps me from liking him as much as I would otherwise. I do appreciate the fact that he tries to keep her in line. But Amanda is so unbearable, so unlikable, that some of it rubs off on McCrae for me. I don't have any hope that their relationship will survive outside the house. For McCrae's sake, I hope it doesn't. It would be okay with me if McCrae wins, as long as he dumps Amanda in the process.
I do like Judd. Out of the four jurors, I was definitely rooting for either him or Jessie to make it back into the house.
After Amanda, my most disliked houseguest is...not who you would expect I imagine. That "honor" goes to...Andy! Andy is a tattletale. That is the only game he has. All he does is run to "McCranda" when anyone tells him anything. Why does he trust them so much? They are a couple. The best he's going to be able to do is third or fourth place, unless he can win HOH. Why is he settling for that? If he could help get Amanda out, he would be more on an even playing field I think. There would be no Queen Bee if Amanda was gone. Maybe Aaryn would take her crown, but I tend to think that having to be the evictioner (is that a word?) for Helen and Amanda has made her squeamish about doing the same thing to someone else. Aaryn definitely is in it to win it, but I don't think she wants to be a puppetmaster.
So we'll see what happens. Maybe Elissa can backdoor Amanda. If she doesn't go this week, I think it will probably be McCranda as the final two. *Shudder* I'm having an Amber / Boston Rob "Survivor" flashback.
librarianintx
I'm still enjoying the season. But I don't have a favorite. Not even close. In fact, until Judd came back into the house, I didn't like anyone. Elissa is okay, but she can get on my nerves. I'm a girlie girl, but Elissa is beyond a girlie girl. I sort of like McCrae, but unfortunately the fact that he is with Amanda keeps me from liking him as much as I would otherwise. I do appreciate the fact that he tries to keep her in line. But Amanda is so unbearable, so unlikable, that some of it rubs off on McCrae for me. I don't have any hope that their relationship will survive outside the house. For McCrae's sake, I hope it doesn't. It would be okay with me if McCrae wins, as long as he dumps Amanda in the process.
I do like Judd. Out of the four jurors, I was definitely rooting for either him or Jessie to make it back into the house.
After Amanda, my most disliked houseguest is...not who you would expect I imagine. That "honor" goes to...Andy! Andy is a tattletale. That is the only game he has. All he does is run to "McCranda" when anyone tells him anything. Why does he trust them so much? They are a couple. The best he's going to be able to do is third or fourth place, unless he can win HOH. Why is he settling for that? If he could help get Amanda out, he would be more on an even playing field I think. There would be no Queen Bee if Amanda was gone. Maybe Aaryn would take her crown, but I tend to think that having to be the evictioner (is that a word?) for Helen and Amanda has made her squeamish about doing the same thing to someone else. Aaryn definitely is in it to win it, but I don't think she wants to be a puppetmaster.
So we'll see what happens. Maybe Elissa can backdoor Amanda. If she doesn't go this week, I think it will probably be McCranda as the final two. *Shudder* I'm having an Amber / Boston Rob "Survivor" flashback.
librarianintx
Sunday, July 28, 2013
So You Think You Can Dance 7/23/13
Yep, I'm really late on this write-up, so it will probably be pretty short.
I was fine with four of the bottom six this week. I don't understand why Jenna keeps winding up there, and Alan. I was fine with Mariah and Blu-Print leaving this week.
This week I felt like some of the routines lacked the energy that was promised in the rehearsal footage, especially Nico and Alexis' jive, and Mariah and Blu-Print's jazz number. Both of those dances suffered from an abundance of tricks that interrupted the flow of the dances, and the timing of the dancers. I thought the jive was especially rough, and Nigel and Mary were too easy on Nico and Alexis.
In contrast, i thought Amy and Fik-shun's jazz, and Makenzie and Paul's hip hop were two routines that were successful. Tice's jazz number included just enough tricks to make the dance fun and exciting, but didn't detract from the flow and timing. Dave Scott's hip hop number was hot, sexy, and had great energy.
I also enjoyed the two contemporary numbers: Jenna and Tucker's Travis Wall piece, and Hayley and Curtis' piece by Dee Caspary. Bravo to Hayley for overcoming her fear of heights to dance that number! Ladders are scary!
Normally I would feel sorry for the poor pair that is dealt the dreaded quickstep. But no lamenting needed for Jasmine and Aaron, 'cause they kicked that quickstep's booty! It was a great dance to show off tapper Aaron's personality and the much-admired legs of contemporary dancer Jasmine. They did a great job on a very tough dance.
One more point: The dancers have to step it up on their solos! Makenzie was the only one who really looked like she was dancing for her life. Alan's music was exciting and the cape work was cool, but he needed to do more. The other three were pretty blah in my opinion. The dancers have to pull out all the stops and show the judges they deserve to stay on the show.
librarianintx
I was fine with four of the bottom six this week. I don't understand why Jenna keeps winding up there, and Alan. I was fine with Mariah and Blu-Print leaving this week.
This week I felt like some of the routines lacked the energy that was promised in the rehearsal footage, especially Nico and Alexis' jive, and Mariah and Blu-Print's jazz number. Both of those dances suffered from an abundance of tricks that interrupted the flow of the dances, and the timing of the dancers. I thought the jive was especially rough, and Nigel and Mary were too easy on Nico and Alexis.
In contrast, i thought Amy and Fik-shun's jazz, and Makenzie and Paul's hip hop were two routines that were successful. Tice's jazz number included just enough tricks to make the dance fun and exciting, but didn't detract from the flow and timing. Dave Scott's hip hop number was hot, sexy, and had great energy.
I also enjoyed the two contemporary numbers: Jenna and Tucker's Travis Wall piece, and Hayley and Curtis' piece by Dee Caspary. Bravo to Hayley for overcoming her fear of heights to dance that number! Ladders are scary!
Normally I would feel sorry for the poor pair that is dealt the dreaded quickstep. But no lamenting needed for Jasmine and Aaron, 'cause they kicked that quickstep's booty! It was a great dance to show off tapper Aaron's personality and the much-admired legs of contemporary dancer Jasmine. They did a great job on a very tough dance.
One more point: The dancers have to step it up on their solos! Makenzie was the only one who really looked like she was dancing for her life. Alan's music was exciting and the cape work was cool, but he needed to do more. The other three were pretty blah in my opinion. The dancers have to pull out all the stops and show the judges they deserve to stay on the show.
librarianintx
Big Brother 7/27/13
It was a good week on Big Brother for me. The evil trio of Aaryn, GinaMarie, and Kaitlin ended up on the block together. Oh happy day! Unfortunately, the least evil of the three went home. And the most evil won HOH. UGH!! Not much else to say. I predict that Aaryn will nominate Elissa, and maybe Candice or Howard. That is, if she sticks to her supposed agreement with Helen. I haven't watched any of the live feed this week, so I don't know what's going on behind the scenes.
I hate to say it, but I do feel a little sorry for Jeremy at this point. He might be arrogant as hell, but I think he really does like Kaitlin. And maybe she was just being coy, but when she was talking to Julie, it sure sounded like she is way less into Jeremy than he is into her. I guess we'll find out at the finale...maybe.
librarianintx
I hate to say it, but I do feel a little sorry for Jeremy at this point. He might be arrogant as hell, but I think he really does like Kaitlin. And maybe she was just being coy, but when she was talking to Julie, it sure sounded like she is way less into Jeremy than he is into her. I guess we'll find out at the finale...maybe.
librarianintx
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Cory Monteith's toxicology report
Cory died from a lethal mix of heroin and alcohol.
I'm so mad. I AM SO MAD. Not at Cory. He was an addict. He did what addicts do. Okay, maybe I am mad at Cory. Because he knew he was an addict, but he did things that addicts should not do. He lived with people who drank and had parties (this was several years ago.) He went to two clubs the night he died. He was around people who were drinking in the days before he died. He put himself in situations where he was around alcohol (and evidently drugs). Surrounding himself with his poisons, just months after getting out of rehab.
So yes, I'm mad at Cory, even though I shouldn't be. But I'm even more mad at the drugs. Drugs have stolen another young, talented, beautiful young man. Cory was an actor, a singer, and a musician. He also used his celebrity to make the lives of others better through non-profit organizations. He was involved in three projects in addition to Glee when he died. He was busy, he was productive, he was doing great things with his life.
Drugs took all of that away. Drugs ended what could have been decades of professional accomplishment and the personal enrichment of helping others. Drugs snatched the opportunity for Cory to marry his love and maybe raise a family. And now he'll be remembered in the annals of entertainment history as another actor dead from drugs. Just another young talent gone too soon.
The media has already moved on to the next headline.
librarianintx
I'm so mad. I AM SO MAD. Not at Cory. He was an addict. He did what addicts do. Okay, maybe I am mad at Cory. Because he knew he was an addict, but he did things that addicts should not do. He lived with people who drank and had parties (this was several years ago.) He went to two clubs the night he died. He was around people who were drinking in the days before he died. He put himself in situations where he was around alcohol (and evidently drugs). Surrounding himself with his poisons, just months after getting out of rehab.
So yes, I'm mad at Cory, even though I shouldn't be. But I'm even more mad at the drugs. Drugs have stolen another young, talented, beautiful young man. Cory was an actor, a singer, and a musician. He also used his celebrity to make the lives of others better through non-profit organizations. He was involved in three projects in addition to Glee when he died. He was busy, he was productive, he was doing great things with his life.
Drugs took all of that away. Drugs ended what could have been decades of professional accomplishment and the personal enrichment of helping others. Drugs snatched the opportunity for Cory to marry his love and maybe raise a family. And now he'll be remembered in the annals of entertainment history as another actor dead from drugs. Just another young talent gone too soon.
The media has already moved on to the next headline.
librarianintx
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