Brain Games

I love to play games. Board games, card games, electronic games, games on my phone - I enjoy them all. Sometimes I get nervous when I'm trying to learn a new game - I tend to play games that I already know and especially like to play games that I am good at. 

I've been watching webinars and reading articles about the importance of brain health, and how playing games and other activities may help to ward off Alzheimer's and dementia. Research shows that learning new activities is better for your brain than activities that you do frequently. For example, crossword puzzles are good, but if you do them a lot, you should take the time to switch things up and include learning a new skill. Cooking, dancing, playing an instrument, and studying a new language are very beneficial activities for your brain. So is writing. 

I have a phone app called Mind Games Pro that I really enjoy. I don't work for the company, and it's a free app anyway, so I'm not trying to sell anyone anything. There are about 40 games on the app; some examples are math operations and vocabulary power, and other games work on memory and attention and other concepts. Usually there are certain games that I like the best, and I tend to play those and ignore the games that I am not good at. But remembering the research, I have started having the app pick the game for me, called the Training Center, because that makes me play the games that I am not as good at, so maybe I can improve at those games, and exercise my brain more. That was a total run-on sentence, but anyway...

The other day the app made me play a game called mental rotation. It's hard to explain, but the game gives you two images, or shapes, and you have to decide quickly if the shapes are the same. The shapes are often rotated, which makes it more difficult to determine if the shapes are the same. I am finding this game VERY challenging! Sometimes I feel like I'm figuring it out, and my scores are decent. Sometimes my scores are terrible and I'm frustrated. I did so much better previously, what is the problem? But I keep playing it. I don't want to give up. I can tell that when I'm tired I often don't do as well. It's not a good idea for me to play late at night, but that is often what I do. Still, I think the Training Center is a good way to use the app, because it makes me play games that are more difficult for me. You can skip a game if you want to, but it's better not to do that.

I spend too much time scrolling through Facebook. I need to use my time more time more wisely and productively. I need to be writing and reading more. I've also always wanted to learn sign language. That would be a very beneficial activity for my brain. I've also always wanted to learn how to play the piano. One of the hardest parts is to just start trying. Don't worry about failure. Don't think that you've wasted your time if you don't do well at something, or if you ultimately give up what you were trying to learn. Understand that the attempt was worth the time and effort. And you were doing something helpful for your brain, your mental health, and your overall health.

librarianintx

DWTS Double Elimination Nite 11/2

Except it's not double elimination night after all. I feel so bad for Jeannie. I enjoyed her as a contestant, but most of all I hope she is going to be okay. We will miss her in the ballroom.

Kaitlyn & Artem

Jive

Very solid routine! She is back! Good energy, good content, good kicks and flicks - I just wonder if Carrie Ann will ding them for the lift. But otherwise it was a strong routine. There wasn't anything unusual or super wow about it, but it was a good solid Jive.

My score: 9

Scores: 8, 9, 8

Nev & Jenna

Viennese Waltz

I love him! He is so refreshing. He looks both very professional and really joyous when he dances. And he looks like a leading man; he doesn't look like the student. That was a lovely dance. So elegant and refined.

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Justina & Sasha

Samba

Yaaaaasssss! Viva Puerto Rico!! I love that song and I love Justina! Samba is the party dance, and it's often hard for contestants to really create a party atmosphere with their dancing and their energy level, but Justina totally did. And Sasha threw just about every bit of Samba content possible into that routine, even reverse turns, which are so tough. I don't know if she fell at the end, or if that was part of the routine, but she made it look like it was planned, so I'm going to go with that. I absolutely loved it and I did not want it to end. Muy caliente!

My score: 10 (oops Samba rolls, not reverse turns, my bad)

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Nelly & Daniella

Rhumba

By far Nelly's best dance! He came through when he needed to. He looked so handsome, so suave, his hip action was terrific. Daniella still did a lot of the work in the dance, But Nelly was not a passive bystander. He was a strong partner,, and they had wonderful chemistry and musicality. Great job Nelly!

My score: 9

Score: 7, 7, 7

Chrishell & Gleb

Viennese Waltz

Are they together? Seriously, their chemistry is ridiculous! I mean that was like sex in the ballroom. I need a cigarette after that routine. That was some serious passion and fire. How was their technique? I don't care. That routine wasn't about technique. That was all about emotion and connection, and if you didn't feel anything watching that, you must be an Android. Wow! Wow! That is also one of my favorite Rhianna songs.

My score: 10

Scores: 8, 8, 8

They're the judges. They focus on technique. I get to focus on the sexual energy. 😀

Skai & Alan

Salsa

Girl YAAASSS! No Robot Skai tonight! Whoo Whoo! That was both the most relaxed I've ever seen her and the most energetic I've ever seen her. She was feeling and living that song and that routine! Those lifts were sickening too! She is so tiny that Alan look like he was flinging around a rag doll. But I say that in a good way. It was a super exciting routine. I'm not sure how much salsa content there was, but it was awesome to watch.

My score: 10

Scores: 8, 9, 8

I can see their point about too many lifts. But I think the scores are too low tonight.

Johnny & Britt

Foxtrot

It's really petty, but I was terribly distracted by what I consider to be his horrible outfit. Having gotten that off my chest, I will say it was a lovely Foxtrot. I loved the musicality and the grandeur of the routine, the sweep across the floor. I especially loved the end. They have a wonderful partnership and friendship happening.

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 9

AJ McLean & Cheryl

Rhumba

I think AJ has been quite consistent in this competition. For me, he hasn't been the best, but he certainly has not been the worst. I think the song choice was a little unusual. I really liked the song, but it did not seem to fit with a rumba. For the most part, I think it was a solid routine, although the main spin towards the end looked really off to me.

My score: 8

Scores: 8, 8, 8

End of Round One

Relays

Carrie Ann judges a Cha Cha

Nev vs Chrishell vs Nelly

My pick: Nev & Jenna

They looked so professional!

Carrie Ann gave 3 points to Nev, 2 points to Chrishell, and 2 to Nelly

Derek judges a Viennese Waltz

Justina vs Johnny

Okay, sorry, but super unfair here. Johnny & Britt got way more time AND way better parts of the song. Justina & Sasha got the slower parts of the song, and the dance suffered because of it. It was much more obvious in this relay. They should have had the opportunity to dance to the same parts of the song. For this reason I have to give the edge to Johnny and Britt, but this relay dance was really unfair.

Derek gave 2 points to Justina and 3 points to Johnny

Bruno judges a Samba

AJ vs Kaitlyn vs Skai

This is a tough one! I thought they were all great, and equally so! I'll give the edge to Skai & Alan, but just by a smidge.

Bruno gave 3 points to AJ and Kaitlyn and 2 points to Skai

Bottom 2:

Skai & Alan

Chrishell & Gleb

Eliminated: Chrishell & Gleb

So sad. :( 

But it makes me very happy to posting this recap immediately! It only took me how many years to figure out I needed to type directly into Blogger?

librarianintx

DWTS Villains Nite (Top 10) Part 2 10/26/20

Nelly & Daniella

Argentine Tango

I give Daniella a 10 for that routine and Nelly an 8. She did most of the work, but still, his partnering skills were good. I think her choreography made him look good, although I think I saw a balance problem or two. It was his best dance overall.

My score: 8 (almost 9)

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Justina & Sasha

Tango

Poor Sasha was probably exhausted and battered after that routine - but I'm sure it was worth it! Wow!! Great dance! Fast, powerful, with so many unexpected moments! I was on the edge of my seat! Her screams made me laugh out laugh out loud! Thrilling! The songs are so perfect for the themes tonight!

My score: 10

Scores: 9, 9, 8

Nev & Jenna

Paso Doble

Excellent Paso! Loved Nev's power and intensity, the look on his face said it all. Very strong Paso content - shaping, lines, attack - it was all there, and it all worked.

My score: 9

Scores: 10, 10, 10

Yay!!

Skai & Alan

Argentine Tango

It's a difficult dance, but Skai is back this week! Very good footwork, clean lines, and because she is so tiny, they were able to do some pretty incredible lifts. And the look on her face at the end was wonderfully sinister.

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Kaitlyn and Artem

Paso Doble

So obviously I'm finishing this nearly a week late, and I did hear about the controversy surrounding this routine. I thought Kaitlyn did a good job acting the part, and the hair and costume were spot on. I thought she had a lot of attack in the beginning, and some very nice shapes. But I think the choreography hurt her towards the end of the dance. Artem had her going underneath him twice, and it's hard to get up from the floor in that likely heavy costume. So I blame the choreography more than anything else for the sluggishness at the end.

My score: 8 (almost a 9)

Scores: 7,9,8

Bottom 2:

Monica & Val

Jeannie & Brandon

Eliminated: Monica & Val

I am absolutely crushed. I think Monica was wonderful tonight. She did not deserve to go home. But neither did Jeannie.

librarianintx

Big Brother Finale - My Thoughts

Another season of Big Brother is over. 

I am not surprised that Cody won, and I am not surprised that it was a unanimous vote. Cody deserved to win, he won on his own merits, but honestly, Enzo handed it to him on a silver platter. Enzo gave the worst speech and answers to jury questions in the history of Big Brother finales. Flat out admitting that you rode someone's coattails is going to get you a win? C'mon on! Further, Cody deserved a raise in prize money for dealing with Enzo during that final hour. Enzo was manic - pacing, non-stop talking, paranoid - painful to watch. 

Nicole's reaction was painful too. I can understand her feeling betrayed by Cody, but she really believed that the jury was going to give her a second win? She thought people like Day, David, and Kevin were going to vote for her after she betrayed them? After she lied to Day's face? Nicole could not get her emotions under control and she came across as a spoiled brat. She is going to be in for a rude awakening when she finds out what much of America thinks of her. There is confidence and then there is delusion. 

The best moment of the night for me was when Day won Favorite Houseguest. I was also happy to see Tyler in the running for that. I would have also liked to see Kevin get it, but I am thrilled for Day. 

See you next summer Big Brother!

librarianintx

Big Brother Finale - Who is Going to Win?

The Big Brother All Stars season finale is about an hour and fifteen minutes away. Who will win and who deserves to win? 

In my opinion, Cody deserves to win. That doesn't mean that he is my favorite. Of the three left in the house, Cody SHOULD win, and if he makes it to the final two, I believe he will win. 

Right now, Nicole is in the driver's seat. If she wins the final HOH, she will be crazy to take Cody with her. Cody has never been on the block. He has been in multiple alliances and has made multiple deals, which can sometimes bite a contestant in the ass (I'm looking at you, Tyler) :) But in this case, I think these all-stars will reward Cody's game play. 

Nicole will not win. She won't win because she has already won once. And she won't win because of what happened with Day and David. Day, David, and Kevin will not vote for her, and I don't think Tyler will either. 

The only way Enzo will win is if he winds up in the final two against Nicole. Enzo has played a good social game, and he has won a few challenges. But he has not played a better game than Cody. 

Who deserves to win America's Favorite Player? Honestly, I don't know. I liked so many of these contestants before this season. Now I don't like most of them for one reason or another. Red-haired Nicole is someone I still like, but she wasn't in the house long enough to win favorite player. 

Anyway, I'll be watching. It was a controversial season, but I still want to see how this plays out.  

librarianintx

DWTS Villains Nite (Top 10) Part 1 10/26/20

Sorry to be a party pooper, but I am not a Halloween fan. But here we go...

Jeannie & Brandon

Paso Robles

Wow that was a long routine! Now that there's only 10 contestants, and they probably can't do group dances, I expect the routines will be longer, which is nice. I wish the camera angles would have been as nice. I think she did a good job with the Paso. I like how they covered the floor with the dance. I liked her skirt work, and it was cool when she threw Brandon across the floor. I would have liked to have seen a little more attack, but overall it was a solid performance.

My score: 8

Scores: 8, 9, 8

Johnny & Britt

Viennese Waltz

Johnny is back!! Of course, I didn't think he did that badly last week. But he is definitely back with a vengeance this week. I don't usually think of a Viennese Waltz as full of attack, but this one was, but it was also passionate and beautiful with wonderful musicality. Absolutely stunning!!

My score: 10

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Chrishell & Gleb

Paso Doble

The contestants are really very good this season. This Paso was full of content and attack. She had some very good shaping and lines. I may not be a big fan of Halloween, but I did really like this choreography, it was exciting. And VA VA Voom with her costume!

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 8

Monica & Val

Jazz

GIRL YAAASSS!!!

Derek said it exactly right last week: when the contestant has fun, the audience has fun. And boy howdy, did Monica have fun with that routine!! Wow! That was hot, sizzling, smooth, I did not want that routine to end. I loved everything about it. Her movements were so sharp, and the way they matched perfectly with the music, oh my gosh, it was fantastic! She and Val have such amazing chemistry! That routine was fire! You could tell that Monica was feeling every bit of that character, and communicating it to the audience. So happy for her!

My score: 10

Scores: 7, 8, 7

Were we watching the same dance? I feel so bad for her. I think she thought she nailed it, and I thought she did too.

AJ & Cheryl

Tango

I think it was a strong Tango, but honestly I was a little bored. I think the music had something to do with it. The music was really fast, and at times the dance didn't quite keep up. Plus I think we were all holding our breath to make sure Cheryl didn't hit her head again.

My score: 8

Scores: 9, 8, 9

End of Part 1

librarianintx

DWTS Top 13

 

Nelly and Daniella
Paso Double
Movements matched well with the songs, but for me it was just steps more than dancing. The attack was there, but not the dancing. He seemed shocked by the positive comments.
My score: 6
Scores: 7,7,7

Chrishell & Gleb
Foxtrot
She won't be single for long.
The dance looked more like a rumba at times, but who cares. It was sexy, sophisticated, nice rise and fall, and she had major chemistry with Gleb
My score: 8
Scores: 7, 8, 7

Monica & Val
Samba
The lights almost gave me a seizure, but that was an exciting samba with a lot of content. She needed more fluidity and hip action, she's still a little stiff, but I continue to see potential.
My score: 7
Scores: 8,8,8

Anne & Keo
Paso Doble
I give Keo a 9.5 for that dance. Wow! He was fire and passion and all kinds of hotness. Anne has some moments that were strong, but some of her leg movements were weird. And what was that rainbow blanket / onesie she was wearing?
My score: 7
Scores: 7,7,7

Nev & Jenna
Rumba
That was wonderful! He had everything I look for in a rumba - sex appeal, hip action, fluidity, musicality, sophistication, and he was leading Jenna, not the other way around. Fantastic!
My score: 9
Scores: 8, 8, 8

Justina & Sasha
Salsa
I wish I could say in Spanish how hot and spicy that was. She is the frontrunner in my book. I absolutely adore how comfortable she is in the ballroom. That was so exciting and fun to watch. Loved the music, the outfits, everything. My only complaint is they didn't move as much around the floor.
My score: 9
Scores: 8,8,8

Kaitlyn & Artem
Viennese Waltz
Nice fluidity, good turns, but sometimes her arms were a little out of control. But lovely and romantic. I'd like to see her do a Latin dance.
My score: 8
Scores: 9, 8, 8
She got a 9 but not Nev or Justina? Mmmm

Johnny Weir & Britt
Jive
Very exciting Jive - he really went for it and looked very comfortable. Maybe a touch out of control at times, but I prefer that to a boring dance. Very good kicks and flicks
My score: 8
Scores: 8,8,8

Jeannie & Brandon
Tango
I love her humor and spirit. She was all about intensity and fierceness in this Tango, which made it so good, except for one part that her feet got messed up and then she wobbled on the end pose. Such a shame, because the rest was terrific. These dancers are bringing it tonight!
My score: 8
Scores: 7, 7, 7

Vernon & Peta
Rumba
Alright alright! Not as good as Nev's, but he got those hips going. He was moving and grooving. He showed off Peta nicely. He had one of the best songs to dance to also.
My score: 7 (almost an 8)
Scores: 8, 7, 7

Jesse & Sharna
Cha Cha
I don't know. I absolutely love Smooth by Santana, and I thought Sharna could make anyone look good, but he didn't have much rhythm - he looked awkward. His outfit was perfect, but his dancing wasn't.
My score: 6
Scores: 7, 7, 7

Skai & Alan
Foxtrot
It was dreamy, lyrical, and beautiful, and she is a wonderful dancer, but I also wanted more. There were too many poses and took them too long to start dancing.
My score: 8
Scores: 10, 9, 9

AJ McLean & Cheryl
Cha Cha
It was a crisp, clean cha cha, but the BB breakdown was unnecessary in a dance that was already short
My score: 7
Scores: 8, 8, 8

Bottom 2
Monica & Val
Anne & Keo
Anne & Keo eliminated
What a mess that bottom 2 announcement was! That has never happened on this show. I feel so bad for Monica and Val but so relieved that they were saved.

librarianintx

DWTS 80's Nite Recap (Top 12)

 

Justina & Sasha
Jazz
So great! I LOVE her! That is a very energetic song, and she kept up the pace! She has such good musicality - loved the choreography, all the flash dance elements, and the water at the end - plus her spitting it out - pure comedy!
Sasha's outfit - SO Richard Simmons!
My score: 8
Scores: 8, 8, 8

Jesse & Sharna
Tango
I'm sorry, he's just not a dancer. That was so robotic. There was no musicality, no connection to the awesome Tears for the Fears song, or to the dance, or to Sharna. I didn't feel a darn thing. His sexy look and smile at the end were the one redeeming thing.
My score: 6
Scores: 7, 6, 6

Chrishell & Gleb
Cha Cha
NKOTB
Really cute. She was so excited to dance to a NKOTB song. Her timing wasn't the best, but she and Gleb have mad chemistry. I liked how they worked the NKOTB steps in, but the Cha Cha elements were very basic.
My score: 7
Scores: 6, 6, 7
Her reaction to the video was something every fan girl understands

Jeannie & Brandon
Jazz
Madonna "Like a Virgin"
Jeannie is back! What a fun routine! Her look was on point, her moves were sharp, and the tricks were super exciting. I know she's pretty tiny, but Brandon's above the head lift was still impressive. Loved it! If she had rolled around on the floor I might have given her a 10.
My score: 9
Scores: 8,8,8

Monica & Val
Tango
Tainted Love
Pow! Take that, bottom two!! Absolutely loved the intensity and passion in that dance! The choreography was perfect with the song. I still think this is a couple to watch. Monica is not someone who settles for average. She is a fighter.
My score: 8 (almost 9)
Scores: 9,9,8

AJ McLean & Cheryl
Waltz
Journey Open Arms
I thought maybe there was an odd step or two, but overall it was lovely - light, airy, and made more exciting by some excellent camera work. I agree with Derek - at least some of the dancers are covering the floor more, which I like. The end with the crown and tiara were precious
My score: 8
Scores: 8,8,8

Skai & Alan
Jazz
The Power of Love - Huey Lewis
Again, she's a tiny little thing, so that makes lifts easier, but they were still exciting, but I also thought they could have been cleaner. She has great energy and really sparkles, but I think they could have done even more with that routine.
My score: 8 
Scores: 8, 8, 8

Vernon & Peta
Tango
Bon Jovi - Living on a Prayer
Not terrible, but kind of sloppy. Monica's was much better. This lacked precision and musicality. He was a little robotic at times.
My score: 7
Scores: 7, 7, 7
He does look like Ashford!

Kaitlyn & Artem
Tango
Tiffany 
Odd song choice and styling for a Tango and the B-boy elements at the end were so out of place with the style of the dance - I don't know. She was good but not as good this week. She seemed a little off.
My score: 8
Scores: 9, 9, 9
Am I becoming Len?

Nelly and Daniella
Samba
El Debarge - Rhythm of the Night
Yes Nelly! I saw improvement! He got those hips going! Wasn't as down and dirty as he needed to be, I still want him to have more fluidity and musicality, but he's getting there!
My score: 8
Scores: 8,8,8

Johnny & Britt
Contemporary
Bonnie Tyler - Total Eclipse of the Heart
Okay, the lighting was horrible - I couldn't see part of the routine. But what I did see was lovely. They had good connection and Johnny's partnering skills were strong. The lifts were very nice. My complaint is that for a contemporary piece they were apart quite a bit. But it was lovely. Felt like a skating routine
My score: 8 (almost a 9)
Scores: 10, 10, 9
Happy to be wrong!

Nev & Jenna
Quickstep
Take on Me Aha
Really fun choreography. I love his spirit. For me it was a strong Quickstep, but there wasn't anything unique or especially exciting, but solid.
My score: 8
Scores: 8, 9, 9

Bottom 2:
Vernon & Peta
Jesse & Sharna
Eliminated: Jesse & Sharna

For me, that was the right bottom two, and it was time for Jesse to go. 

librarianintx 

DWTS Recap Top 11 Part 2 10/19/20

Jeannie & Brandon

Rumba

No tricks, no humor, no sass - simply a beautiful Rumba that was anything but simple. Jeannie looked STUNNING, and there was a tender vulnerability to her performance that mirrored her backstory, but her moves were nuanced, sensual, and on point. Gorgeous choreography by Brendon. 

My score: 9

Scores: They didn't show her scores!! WTH? I only know she got a 25, so I'm assuming 8's from Carrie Ann and Derek and a 9 from Bruno 

AJ & Cheryl

Samba

Not to take anything away from AJ, but I think that song could get a lot of people moving on a dance floor. AJ did get the party started. His movements were sharp and clean; he was down and dirty like a Samba should be. I liked the shoulder moves, but maybe the judges won't.

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Chrishell & Gleb

Contemporary

The passion and musicality were absolutely wonderful in this routine, but what stood out the most was the trust in this partnership - the lifts, the rollover, and especially the leap off the stairs. Chrishell is a lovely dancer and I have appreciated how much she has shared of her life with the audience.

My score: 9

Scores: 8, 8, 8

Kaitlyn & Artem

Samba

Kaitlyn's Samba was likely better than AJ's on a technical level, but I enjoyed AJ's more, maybe because of the song. Plus I was distracted by Artem's tight, somewhat high water pants. Anyway, Kaitlyn had the look of a Latin ballroom dancer, with her long hair and sexy dress, and there was a good amount of Samba content.

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Justina & Sasha

Viennese Waltz

To me she is still a front-runner, even though she doesn't get the highest scores. This was a beautiful Waltz. Although I didn't love her outfit, I think the skirt made her turns look even better than they already were. It was an elegant, sophisticated dance. 

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Bottom 2

Johnny & Britt

Vernon & Peta

WTH, Johnny?!?!

Thank goodness the judges saved him and Britt. And by judges I mean Derek and Bruno. Shake it off Johnny! Come back strong!

librarianintx

DWTS Top 11 Part 1 10/19/20

I'm going to try something new tonight since I'm so far behind on my recaps. For the first time I'm going to try recapping directly into blogger, and also using the built-in text-to-speech feature on my phone. Let's see how this goes. Either way, accessibility rocks!

Johnny & Britt

Salsa

The lifts in the routine were really cool and innovative. I was annoyed by the flashing lights, because it makes it hard to see the dancers. But what I was able to see looked good. Johnny was moving his hips and is partnering skills were good. He looked like he was having a blast out there.

My score: 9

Scores: 7, 8, 7

Nev & Jenna

Jazz

What a tease that Nev is! The whole dance I thought he was going to rip his shirt open! Anyway, great routine, very exciting lifts and lots of energy. Almost a top score, but I wanted the flow of movement to be smoother. Fantastic song to dance to!

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 8

Monica & Val

Rumba

First of all, Monica looked STUNNING! Gorgeous dress, hair and makeup were perfect! And that was a beautiful rumba, sexy, graceful, lovely hip action - I'm telling you, Monica & Val could take this competition.

My score: 9

Scores: 9, 9, 9

Skai & Alan

Cha Cha

I thought the costumes were a little odd. I guess Skai was paying homage to Nikki Minaj, but I don't know why Alan was in a zebra jumpsuit. Anyway, oh gosh, I don't know. Skai is a very good dancer. The steps are there. The moves are there. But the feeling wasn't there. I felt like I was watching a robot Barbie. And I think there were a few missteps too. Maybe she's trying too hard?

My score: 8

Scores: 6, 6, 6

Whoa!!

Vernon & Peta

Cha Cha

Tonight we've seen two good dancers falter. With Vernon, I'm just not seeing any growth. He's not a terrible dancer. But he's not much of a dancer. He lets Peta lead him. He doesn't have much timing or musicality. He has a move here or there, but that's not enough to sustain him in this competition.

My score: 7

Scores: 7, 7, 7

Nelly and Daniella

Viennese Waltz

I thought Nelly did pretty well with a ballroom dance, and I think it was his first non Latin dance. The judges may not like his arm movements, but I thought they were kind of nice, as were the turns. I thought the dance kind of fizzled out at the end, but overall it was rather sweet, although also rather simple.

My score: 7

Scores: 8, 8, 8

End of Part 1

librarianintx

Quote about Trying

This is why I still go to Facebook, to find gems like this.

I needed to see this today.

There are days when this is all we can manage.

And that's okay.

Tomorrow will hopefully be better.

And even today had it's bright spots.

librarianintx

Staying Positive

Find a way to be positive every day. 

There are days when everything seems to go wrong and finding a silver lining seems impossible. 

Reach down, look carefully, and find something to be grateful for. 

It can be done. 

Yesterday was a bad day. 

Computer problems. 

The can opener died. 

I struggled with focus and productivity.

I let stress get to me.

But I found some gratefulness. 

And I re-directed. 

I took a walk outside. 

I did my other exercises. 

I ate and hydrated. 

I got a handle on the stress. 

Life felt better. 

I felt stronger. 

Gratefulness is one of the most powerful weapons you have against stress and negativity. 

Nurture gratefulness.

I urge you to find time every day for gratitude.

It can change your life. 

librarianintx

"Dancing with the Stars" 2020 Nite 2 Recap Part 2

Chrishelle & Gleb

Rumba

Her story was compelling, and she was brave to tell it. Her Rumba was very strong, powerful, sexy, a little fast, but good hip action. She looked stunning in that purple dress, and she and Gleb were H-O-T. Quite a fiery Rumba; I was impressed.  

Carrie Ann - deep connection

Derek - so confident, passionate

Bruno - bombshell; I'm impressed

Scores: 6,6,6,                My score: 7

Charles & Emma

Cha Cha

Does he have hips? If he has them, does he know how to use them? Do they move at all? Still, I love his positive attitude. He did have more energy this week, but I really didn't see any Cha Cha from him. I got excited at the beginning of the routine, and that it was going to be much better than last week, but alas, I was wrong. 

Derek - timing was better

Bruno - thank you for the chili

Carrie Ann - watch your focus

Scores: 5,5,5            My score: 5

Jesse & Sharna

Foxtrot

At times I thought his frame was good and at times I thought it was a train wreck. I wasn't loving the Saturday Night Fever outfit on him either. But he does have good chemistry with Sharna. I still see potential here. Maybe.

Bruno - watch your bum and posture

Carrie Ann - I disagree

Derek - good job

Scores: 7,7,6            My score: 6

Jeannie & Brandon

Cha Cha

OMG her mom! Is she serious? Sometimes the camera is too far away with these dances! So irritating! I miss her tricks from last week, but it was a good Cha Cha. Not outstanding, not especially memorable unfortunately. But she is still sassy, cute, and fun to watch. 

Carrie Ann - what an improvement

Derek - I like your energy

Bruno - sexy and sparkling

Scores: 6,6,6            My score: 6

Carole & Pasha

Viennese Waltz

Oh Jeez, another tiger-themed song?! And with that over-the-top, Marie Antoinette-inspired set? How are we supposed to take her seriously? Having said that, it wasn't a terrible Viennese Waltz. It was simple, generic, unremarkable except for the song and set, but it wasn't a train wreck like last week. 

Derek - big improvement

Bruno - performance was shining

Carrie Ann - I liked it

Scores: 6,5,5            My score: 5

Vernon & Peta

Paso Doble

I love the music tonight!! I liked the attack of the dance, and he had some nice shapes, but he was also a little all over the place - at times too wild, sometimes too robotic - so it was uneven, but exciting at times. 

Bruno - new bull on the block

Derek - work on shaping

Carrie Ann - you corrected yourself

Scores: 6,6,6            My score: 6

Kaitlynne & Artem

Foxtrot

If her ankle was hurting, she didn't let on - The show must go on, and she did! That was a beautiful dance - lovely musicality, gorgeous rise and fall, great movement across the floor, wonderful turns. I loved it!

Carrie Ann - beautiful, elegant

Derek - graceful, effortless

Bruno - quality of movement

Scores - 7,8,7            My score: 7 (almost an 8!)

Bottom 2:

Carole & Pasha and Charles & Emma

Charles & Emma were eliminated

It was the right bottom 2, and I think the judges made the right decision. 

In summary, I'm happy that the show is back, but I hope the producers can work on the pace. The dances are very short, and the judges comments and scores are exceedingly rushed. Tyra is constantly telling them to hurry up, that the show is running behind. I know there are a lot of dancers this season, so hopefully as some are eliminated the pace won't be so hectic. And please work on the camera angles too!

librarianintx

"Dancing with the Stars" 2020 Nite 2 Recap Part 1

 Here we go, dance fans!

Nev & Jenna

Cha Cha

He did so well with the Foxtrot, but I wasn't sure if he would do as well with a Latin dance. I think he did pretty good! He sure gave it his all. He really went for it. I loved his big smile and bold costume. He may have been scared on the inside but he didn't let it show. I thought he had good extension and nice flare.

Derek - solid performance, watch your shoulders

Bruno - showmanship, presentation

Carrie Ann - you impressed me, nice extension (that's what I said!) :)

Scores: 7, 7, 7            My score: 6

Skai & Alan

Samba

What a shame that the lift went so wrong. I still think she is absolutely a front runner, but overall I was disappointed with this dance. It felt like she was just doing the moves, but she wasn't feeling anything. She was like a Samba robot doll. There was no joy or musicality, no Samba party going on. She was just going through the motions. Maybe she got thrown off by the lift mishap? Shake it off, Skai, you've got this, girl!

Bruno - thinks happen, but I believe in you!

Carrie Ann - work on your arms

Derek - setback sets you up for a comeback (great quote!), get more grounded

Scores: 5, 5, 5            My score: 6

Johnny & Britt

Tango

Johnny and Gaga are usually an awesome combination. But again, I was left wanting more. Are my expectations too high from last week? The steps seemed precise, but I wanted more sharpness, more attack. And the dance seemed so short. I felt like there was something missing. It should have been memorable, but I think the only thing I will remember are Johnny's pants. 

Carrie Ann - footwork is a bit odd

Derek - work on frame

Bruno - more staccato

Scores: 6, 6, 6            My score: 6

Justina & Sasha

Foxtrot

There we go! Thank you for bringing the magic back, Justina! That was a dream of a dance! Light, airy, floating, wonderful musicality! She looked beautiful! That dip at the end was exquisite! 

Derek - natural, beautiful dancer

Bruno - You make me happy

Carrie Ann - I was transported

Scores: 7,7,7             My score: 8

Monica & Val

Jive

Again, these dances are SO short! They needed to cut out the gimmicky stuff with the hay bale at the beginning and get to the dancing. I sound like Len, right? Because what she did was pretty good - nice kicks and flicks, decent bounce, but she was a little stiff, a little tight. Also, I would have styled her differently. I'm all for her looking youthful, but the Pink Lady high school look didn't suit her. 

Bruno - cheerleader quality helped, but timing not quite there

Carrie Ann - more relaxed but didn't need the lift

Derek - fun, playful

Scores: 5, 6, 5            My score: 6

AJ & Cheryl

Foxtrot

That was a very jazzy Foxtrot, or something. Really unusual moves, which made it more memorable, but what will the judges think? Will they be impressed, or will they be scandalized and unleash their inner Len on him? It seemed kind of jarring to me. But his frame was good in the traditional Foxtrot moments. I am conflicted about this one. I do love the song. This felt like something Mark Ballas would have choreographed. 

Carrie Ann - smooth as silk

Derek - showman

Bruno - foxtrotting down to Vegas, but too choppy

Scores: 7, 6, 6            My score: 6

Anne & Keo

Foxtrot

Great choreography, and she looked like Old Hollywood glamour. The pace of the dance was just a hair slower than the music at times, but her frame and extension were good. Solid performance overall, and I really like their chemistry. 

Derek - too much energy on top

Bruno - swept away, lots of Foxtrot content

Carrie Ann - nice trust with Keo

Scores: 6, 6, 6            My score: 6

Nelly & Daniella

Cha Cha

I almost felt it! Damn! But to me, it was a Cha Cha / Disco by numbers routine. Step here. Throw your arms in the air here. Roll your hips here. He's a performer, an entertainer. But he was too stiff. He wasn't feeling the music. He was just doing the steps. 

Bruno - timing was good, but you need to articulate

Carrie Ann - work on your turns

Derek - timing is impeccable, good content

Scores: 6, 6, 6            My score: 6

End of Part 1

"Dancing with the Stars" 2020 Nite 1 Recap Part 2

Nev Schulman & Jenna

Foxtrot

Absolutely wonderful choreography and costumes. He looks nerdy, but put him in a suit with a timeless song to dance to, and he looked dashing, debonair, and so light on his feet! He looked and acted like a leading man. I completely bought what he and Jenna were pedaling! 

Carrie Ann - so uplifting and refined

Derek - so pleasant to watch, but tuck the tush

Bruno - classic Hollywood style

Scores: 7,7,6            My score: 7

Johnny Weir & Britt

Cha Cha

I did worry and wonder how Johnny would cope with: 1) having a partner, and 2) having a female partner. I mean, we know how chummy he is with Tara Lapinski, but he said it himself, "I'm not used to sharing my spotlight." Well, grrrl, all I can say is, that performance was FIRE for me! H-O-T. I will have this dance on repeat for awhile. The chemistry between him and Britt was fantastic, and the chemistry they both had with the song was amazing too. I thought their movements were sharp and in sync, and Johnny looked in control and confident. I loved it!

Derek - stay consistent

Bruno - lyrical quality, need to be sharper 

Carrie Ann - heaven, but stay connected (Were we watching the same dance?)

Scores: 6,6,6            My score: 8

Justina Machado & Sasha

Cha Cha

How great was that!! Her confidence and exuberance were a 10! She felt great in her spicy little costume, and it showed! Loved watching her shake everything she has and feel awesome doing it! You go girl! She is what DWTS is all about! If you've got it, flaunt it! And the dance had a good amount of cha cha elements. 

Bruno - confidence and musicality

Carrie Ann - you made everyone get up and dance

Derek - oozing charisma

Scores: 7,7,7                My score: 8

Charles Oakley & Emma

Okay, yeah, that was not good. Did DWTS not learn with having Kareem on the show? Basketball players really struggle in the ballroom. There was no salsa content here. The lifts were okay. But he has no rhythm or hip action. But what I did like was his attitude. He said Emma is his teacher, and he is there to learn. 

Carrie Ann - listen to the music

Derek - I felt joy. Work on technique.

Bruno - got into the spirit

Scores: 4,4,4                My score: 4

Monica Aldama & Val

Foxtrot

I see tremendous potential in this partnership. They are both highly competitive. They look stunning together. They have excellent chemistry. I loved how the choreography fit so well with the song; they swept across the ballroom as the music swelled. She is a Texas gal with a Texas accent and Texas hair and they danced to a country song - I loved it. 

Derek - beautiful, graceful, little stiff on the turns

Bruno - elegant and stylish, work on shoulders

Carrie Ann - you went for it

Scores: 6,7,6            My score: 7

Nelly & Daniella

Salsa

I liked the tricks, and he WAS moving his hips, but it felt like he and Daniella were doing two different dances. She was doing a salsa, and he was doing moves from a 1970's Earth, Wind, and Fire number, or something. There were just not in sync. They were way more excited at the end than I was. 

Bruno - connection was so much fun

Carrie Ann - that groove was yours

Derek - no sneakers next time

Scores: 5,5,6            My score: 5

Carole Baskin & Pasha

Paso Doble

If you could see my face during this performance...First of all: A Paso on week 1? Second of all: "Eye of the Tiger"? Really? Third: Her outfit? I had a frightening Sean Spicer PTSD flashback during this dance. Truly, I have nothing positive that I can write about it. It was 45 seconds of my life that I will not be able to un-see. That snarl and claws into the camera at the end - shiver! What a way to end an otherwise mostly good night of dancing, especially for a premiere show.

Carrie Ann - love the connection, You went for it

Derek - you smashed it

Bruno - I want to hear you roar

Scores: 4,4,3            My score: 3

Question: Was Carole having a seizure after the judges' comments, or could she not hear Tyra, or was she just ignoring her? Inquiring minds want to know. 

I'll re-watch Skai, Nev, Johnny, and Justina to help me forget Carole.

librarianintx

"Dancing With the Stars" 2020 Nite 1 Recap Part 1

The ballroom is back, dance fans!

And with lots of changes.

A new host - Tyra Banks

A new judge - Derek Hough

And no audience (but with an audience track)

Also a new pro dancer - Britt

Let's get right into the competition. As I always say, I have never ballroom danced. I have watched the show every season, but that doesn't mean that I know anything. The judges are the experts. I like what I like, and I see what I see. Sometimes my comments and scores are aligned with the judges, sometimes not. So take what I say with a grain of salt. And here we go!

AJ McLean & Cheryl

Jive

Good energy, good kicks and flicks, good bounce, and good chemistry with Cheryl.

It was a good start to the show, but that’s all it was – just good. It felt too safe, except for the leap off the stairs, which I’m trying to figure out if he fell on. If he did, he made a nice recovery.

Derek – needed more jive action

Bruno – powerful, strong, needs to polish the kicks and flicks

Carrie Ann – needs to “dance out”

Scores: 6,6,6             My score: 6

Chrishell Strausse & Gleb

Tango

Distracting lasers and choppy camera footage likely worked in her favor. She looked lovely, but Gleb was definitely leading her and she was trying to keep up. The final move looked scary, like she wasn't ready for it. 

Turn down the fake audience - its too loud! Everyone is screaming over the screaming. 

Bruno - went wrong lost footing and posture

Carrie Ann - potential, but got knocked off your feet

Derek - pidgeon-toed

Scores: 4,5,4        My score: 5

Vernon Davis & Peta

Foxtrot

They had fantastic chemistry and I love the song, but his frame and footwork were atrocious. They were all up in each other when they were standing still, which was a few beats too long, but not enough body contact otherwise. Still, I see potential here.

Carrie Ann - potential but more to learn

Derek - so smooth, frame was good (?!)

Bruno - sizzling, light and stylish, attempted rise and fall

Scores: 5,6,6            My score: 4

Anne Heche & Keo

Cha Cha

They are going to be fun to watch. She looked lovely and so youthful. But I didn't see much cha cha content in this routine. The steps were choppy. It was a rough start, but hopefully she will improve. 

Derek - clean, neat but finish every step

Bruno - needed more hip action

Carrie Ann - precise, good tension

Scores: 6,6,6        My score: 4

Jeannie Mai & Brandon

Salsa

She is fearless! It was a very ambitious routine for someone with no dance experience. It felt rushed and chaotic at times, but I enjoyed it. She is infectious! I love her spirit! Not enough salsa content, but F-U-N!

Bruno - energizing, radiant, work on footwork and balance

Carrie Ann - even it out

Derek - work on your turns

Scores: 6,6,6            My score: 6

Jesse Metcalfe & Sharna

Quickstep

My least favorite dance; I don't know how to judge it. (Some would say I don't know how to judge any dance.) He had good speed and I think his footwork was good. It was fun to watch. He's still hot. :)

Carrie Ann - passionate, a little wild

Derek - leading man

Bruno - did well

Scores: 6,6,6        My score: 6

Skai Jackson & Alan

Tango

WOW! I thought the height difference would be tough to deal with, plus she is so young and the Tango is such a sophisticated dance. She blew me away! So sharp, so clean, great speed, her hand placement on Alan's arm was exquisite! Stunning performance, especially on night one! Go girl!

Derek - clean, flexible, great posture

Bruno - shining jewel, so mature

Carrie Ann - beautiful and exciting

Scores: 7,7,7        My score: 8

Kaitlyn Bristowe & Artem

Cha Cha

The dances are so short - there isn't much content in them, but I did see some cha cha elements. Maybe cut down on the sometimes awkward banter with Tyra and have more time for dancing. Also, the camera work is terrible. I understand about social distancing (joke), but sometimes it seems like the camera is in another state. Anyway, I love seeing a contestant so excited about being on the show. Her energy and ability couldn't quite keep up with the tempo and pace of the song, but there is potential. 

Bruno - good foot placement

Carrie Ann - work on pointing feet

Derek - a little safe, needed more attack

Scores: 6,7,7        My score: 6

End of part 1

Note: sorry about the paragraph issues. I don't want a space between each line, but I can't figure out how to fix it.

librarianintx

"Living Under the Threat" - Milestone

Yesterday was an unfortunate anniversary. On September 14th, 2020, I passed the 6-month time frame of being in isolation. I have been at home since March 14th. I never thought this would be my life, but I know pretty much everyone feels this way during the pandemic . And I know I have so much to be grateful for. I have a place to live, a job, food and medical care. I have everything I need at home. I know many people right now are not as lucky as I am .

And as I've said before, there are advantages to working from home. My commute is amazing. I have the ability to get more sleep, exercise more, and eat better. I also have more time to read, to play games, and to do other things that I enjoy.

But the isolation is terrible. I have spent too much of my life having to stay home because of illness. Now luckily, I am not sick, but I still have to stay home to protect myself. The last few years have been wonderful for me. My health has improved, and I have been able to do things I didn't dream of, like going out of town on weekends, and even occasionally going out on weeknights to concerts or book clubs. I want my life back. Actually, I would love to have a mix of my old life and new life.

I am surviving by reminding myself that this situation is not forever. There will be a vaccine eventually, and doctors are working on treatments as well. I believe that life will get back to some kind of normal at some point. That is what we all have to focus on.

Until then, I will keep busy with work and activities that I enjoy at home. I will find contentment and some measure of joy until I am able to resume the life that I had.

librarianintx

"Living Under the Threat" - Sunday

Yesterday was almost an "A" day.

I read nearly an entire book in one day. It was a short, small book, but I still read nearly 130 pages.

I did all of my exercises, and I finished them earlier than usual. I did some of them on the patio. I surpassed my step goal thanks to 20 minutes of pedaling.

I journaled a bit, and I wrote a blog post. I worked more on the seemingly never-ending goal of getting my room organized. My desk looks pretty good.

It would have been an "A" day if I had not spent part of the time worrying. But the rest of the day went very well.

librarianintx

Dancing With the Stars

Dancing with the Stars returns tomorrow night, and yes I am very excited. It has been a long drought, and I have missed the ballroom. Dancing with the Stars is one of my favorite shows. Even though the pandemic has caused a lot of shows to go on hiatus, I have still found other shows to watch. But I am happy to have my dance show back.

But the show is going to be different this season. Because of the pandemic, there will be no audience, and I'm not sure there will even be a ballroom. The dancers might be performing in some kind of remote location. We will find out more tomorrow night.

But the big difference for me will be that Tom and Erin are no longer part of the show. They have been replaced by Tyra Banks, who is also the new executive producer of the show.

Honestly, I cannot imagine Dancing with the Stars without Erin, and especially without Tom. They are very important to the show. They are so funny together, and they are so good with the contestants, knowing when they need to provide humor and when they need to provide comfort and encouragement. I don't know if Tyra will be able to do what Tom and Erin have done for so many years. I am willing to give her a chance, and I hope she does well, but I know I will miss Tom and Erin terribly.

I also recently found out that Len will not be a judge this season. I think this is because of the pandemic, but I don't know for sure. He may not return as a judge. Len is cranky and difficult sometimes, but it's hard to imagine the show without him. I think he will be on the show in some capacity, and remotely, but it won't be the same not having him as a judge.

So there will be a lot of change this season, and we will see what works and what doesn't. I am not a fan of change, but nobody asked me if Tom and Erin should be replaced. Of course I would have said no. Definitely not! But I will be watching tomorrow night and hoping for the best. See you there dance fans!

librarianintx

Lazy Sunday

I was outside earlier, but now it's too hot. 

Looks like I have competition for my patio chair. 

:-)

librarianintx

 

The Vow on HBO, and cults

https://www.hbo.com/the-vow

If you haven't seen the first episode, you might want to stop reading, because there are spoilers. 

I have been fascinated by cults for years. 

How do people caught up in a cult? 

Don't they realize what they're getting into? 

What I'm learning though, is that people are lured into cults because they often have a very positive message. Cults start off as communities that appeal to lonely, vulnerable people, people who want to better themselves and be a part of a group that is doing great work for society. 

Jim Jones' People Temple looked fantastic on the surface - a utopian society where people of all races came together to take care of each other, help the poor, and fight racism and bigotry. 

NXIVM, the organization profiled in the Vow, lured people who were interested in self-empowerment and overcoming fears that held them back from living their best life. Individuals could rise in the ranks and recruitment was a big way to do that. Although it turned out to be a pyramid scheme and sex cult for it's leader, the first episode of the documentary showed how happy people were initially, as they learned how to be their best selves and found a community of like-minded people who encouraged and celebrated their every success and emotional breakthrough. 

I think I could have been very susceptible to a cult at certain times in my life. I have struggled with fears, self-empowerment, and the definition of success, and I have also searched for a community where I feel I truly belong. An organization like NXIVM would have been highly attractive to me. 

The first episode of the Vow was very good, and I am quite interested in the rest of the series. I also watched the Lifetime movie Escaping the NXIVM Cult: A Mother's Fight to Save Her Daughter, about Catherine Oxenberg and her daughter India. 

librarianintx