About a month and a half ago we were informed at work that our division is now requiring us to have twelve CEU's (continuing education units) per year. For us, a CEU can be a webinar, an in-house seminar, a meeting, a conference - anything disability-related, related to libraries, self-improvement, or learning about technology and computer programs.
So there is a wide-variety of events that we can count as CEU's. And we only have to do one per month to fulfill the requirement. That doesn't sound difficult or unreasonable, does it? A few people in our department are grumbling about it, but I'm actually enjoying this endeavor. By the end of this week, I will have nearly fulfilled the yearly requirement already, and I plan to attend more sessions. I have especially learned a lot from the self-improvement webinars and seminars.
Learning should be a lifelong adventure. You should never think you are too old to learn something new, or to improve current skills. And I think most of us could benefit from strategies that help us navigate this ever-changing road of life. No one is all-knowing, and no one is perfect. There is always something in life to work on, to improve, to update, to acquire. And when we are taught something new, or achieve an improvement is some aspect of our lives, we can impart that knowledge to others.
Knowledge is power.
Learning can lead to greater independence, resiliency, and competence.
I'll be posting notes from some of the seminars that I have found most helpful, in hopes that others might find the information useful.
librarianintx
librarianintx
Monday, April 10, 2017
Deciding to be Happy
I firmly believe in this. Happiness is a conscious choice. There are people who have everything that anyone could want in life, yet they are unhappy on a daily basis. And then there are people who are struggling who are the most optimistic people that anyone could know. How you react to what happens to you can make all the difference in the world.
How you were raised has a lot to do with how resilient you are, in my opinion. But resiliency can be learned. It's not easy, but it is possible.
Today is Monday. A lot of people do not like Mondays. You're tired from the weekend. You don't want to go to work or to school. You're tired and cranky and you don't want to get out of bed. You don't want to talk or be around anyone. You're fuzzy and having a hard time focusing and you're convinced that everything will go wrong today and you will be completely unproductive. You can continue on in that vain and have a crappy day. Or you can turn things around. One of the best ways to do that is to focus on gratefulness. Gratefulness is one of the keys to resiliency and purpose. Here's a list of gratefulness for this Monday:
1) I'm alive.
2) I have a job (or I get to attend school).
3) I have food to eat, clothes to wear, and a roof over my head. I'm not homeless or starving.
4) I'm healthy (for the most part.)
5) I have people who love and care about me (even if I'm feeling a little lonely).
6) I don't live in a war zone.
Bottom line:
I have the power to make this a good day.
I can be a success if I put my mind to it.
And I can define success however I choose to.
I have purpose in my life.
There is a reason that I am here.
I hope everyone has a happy, successful Monday!
librarianintx
Week Four of Sugar Journal
Partly because of a chronic health condition, and partly due simply to no willpower, it was a rather tough week sugar-wise.
I have an inner ear imbalance, which can cause dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. When I'm nauseated it is very difficult for me to drink water. Since I likely live on the edge of dehydration on a daily basis, I knew I needed to liquids in me. So I drank Gatorade five of the seven days this week, and I had apple juice one day. I'm not sure how many ounces of Gatorade I drank each day, because I wasn't using a measured cup. Hopefully it was around 8 ounces each day. The apple juice was a 10 ounce bottle, because the grocery store was out of 8 ounce bottles. I'm trying to be healthy, but I'm also not going to waste 2 ounces of apple juice.
Saturday was my worst sugar day. In addition to the Gatorade, I also had two graham crackers (8 grams of sugar). But the big no-no was a small chocolate shake from Sonic - with whipped cream. Yup, I went there. I didn't eat all of the whipped cream, but still. I just had no willpower. I wanted it, so I had it. Simple as that.
I'm still ingesting far less sugar than I used to, so I have to be pleased with myself for that. But am I doing enough to be healthy? Is cheating occasionally okay, or am I cutting down enough to make it worthwhile to be doing this? I'm already at increased risk for breast cancer due to other factors, so is cutting back on sugar really going to help me in the long run? I don't know. The breast specialist told me that decreasing my sugar intake is good for me in general, although she didn't put stock into the sugar/breast cancer link. She was more concerned about the link between obesity and breast cancer, which is not something I have to worry about at this time. I also don't have a family history. But lots of women develop breast cancer without having a family history.
I guess I'll just keep plugging away, and doing the best I can. Every little bit helps is the philosophy I've decided to adopt. Try to cut down, but don't beat myself up when I cheat. And drink liquids with sugar in them if I have to. At least I'm not drinking sodas.
librarianintx
I have an inner ear imbalance, which can cause dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. When I'm nauseated it is very difficult for me to drink water. Since I likely live on the edge of dehydration on a daily basis, I knew I needed to liquids in me. So I drank Gatorade five of the seven days this week, and I had apple juice one day. I'm not sure how many ounces of Gatorade I drank each day, because I wasn't using a measured cup. Hopefully it was around 8 ounces each day. The apple juice was a 10 ounce bottle, because the grocery store was out of 8 ounce bottles. I'm trying to be healthy, but I'm also not going to waste 2 ounces of apple juice.
Saturday was my worst sugar day. In addition to the Gatorade, I also had two graham crackers (8 grams of sugar). But the big no-no was a small chocolate shake from Sonic - with whipped cream. Yup, I went there. I didn't eat all of the whipped cream, but still. I just had no willpower. I wanted it, so I had it. Simple as that.
I'm still ingesting far less sugar than I used to, so I have to be pleased with myself for that. But am I doing enough to be healthy? Is cheating occasionally okay, or am I cutting down enough to make it worthwhile to be doing this? I'm already at increased risk for breast cancer due to other factors, so is cutting back on sugar really going to help me in the long run? I don't know. The breast specialist told me that decreasing my sugar intake is good for me in general, although she didn't put stock into the sugar/breast cancer link. She was more concerned about the link between obesity and breast cancer, which is not something I have to worry about at this time. I also don't have a family history. But lots of women develop breast cancer without having a family history.
I guess I'll just keep plugging away, and doing the best I can. Every little bit helps is the philosophy I've decided to adopt. Try to cut down, but don't beat myself up when I cheat. And drink liquids with sugar in them if I have to. At least I'm not drinking sodas.
librarianintx
Tuesday, April 04, 2017
Dancing with the Stars Vegas Nite Part 2
Nancy & Artem
Samba - Ricky Martin's "Shake Your Bon Bon"
Okay, yes, it could have been down and dirtier, but she definitely shook her bon bon! I love Nancy and Artem together. I'm sure she was nervous, but she had that Nancy Kerrigan smile on her face. She looked very sexy in that Samba dress, and she had some great moves. I liked how she kept moving her hand over her hair and down the side of her face; that was a seductive gesture. It was a bit clean and precise for a Samba, but I thoroughly enjoyed it (even with the extra dancers.) Artem was elated - both with Nancy's performance, and the encounter with Ricky!
Bruno: "saucy! a proper Samba!"
Carrie Ann: "You had the bounce!"
Len: "best dance this season" (!!)
Julianne: "one of the best Sambas I've seen on this show" (!!)
Fantastic reviews; better than I expected!
Scores: 8, 9, 8, 8
My score: 8 (almost a 9!)
David & Lindsay
Jazz - from "Magic Mike the Musical"
It was a weird balance of sexy and comedy, but I was entertained. Lindsay looked KILLER in her black jumpsuit. David had some hot moves, but the red boxers reveal killed the sexy for me and sent the routine more in a comedy direction. But there was definite improvement from the hot mess of last week, and I was impressed with the lift. So it was a bit schizophrenic for me, but overall I liked it. I could tell that David did his homework when he visited the musical.
Carrie Ann: "super Dave!"
Len: "fun and entertaining:
Julianne: "major props"
Scores: 8, 7, 8, 8
My score: 7
Erika & Gleb
Jive
It was NOT fair that extra dancers did TWO lifts with Erika. This is NOT the freestyle round of the finale! Anyway, she looked good, but the Jive is not her dance. She didn't have the bounce, the rhythm, or the balance needed for this dance. But she at least attempted the kicks and flicks, and she did her best to sell the routine. I have to give her credit for trying. And I appreciate her humbleness this week.
Len: "gave it your all"
Julianne: "content for days"
Bruno: "bendy and stretchy"
Carrie Ann: "out of sync"
Scores: 6, 7, 7, 6
My score: 6
Rashad & Emma
Samba
YASSS!
Hip action for days!
Samba rolls, which are so tough to do!
Great bounce!
Musicality!
Off the charts sex appeal and chemistry! They looked like the stars of an R&B music video.
I wish Rashad had been shirtless like he was in rehearsal, but I realize I can't have everything.
In summary: SMOKIN'!!
Unfortunately, the judges disagreed with me.
Julianne: "the song worked against you"
Bruno: "natural ability but not as clean or precise"
Len liked the mood and setting.
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
My score: 8
When I watched it a second time, I can understand what the judges are saying. I think Rashad and Emma were a bit out of sync. But it still worked for me. I stand by my score.
Normani & Val
Foxtrot - "Big Spender"
She was 10,000 kinds of hot in that red dress, and OMG, what a Foxtrot! Fast, sharp, precise, classy, sexy, musicality out the yin yang...this routine gets a YASSS from me as well! I wasn't thrilled with the table part at the end though; I thought it threw off their rhythm just a bit and it didn't give Normani the big finish that she deserved in this dance. Val leaped off the table, but she just laid down on it. If she had jumped into his arms, that would have been way better. So the end was a disappointment, but the rest of the performance was first rate!
Bruno: "big splendor! Fabulous - best of the night!"
Len: "full of joy"
Julianne: "Broadway" (that was a compliment)
But Carrie Ann was the lift police (booooo!!)
Scores: 8, 8, 9, 9
My score: 9 (It might have been a 10 if the end had been more exciting)
Charo & Keo and Nick & Peta were the bottom two couples.
Charo & Keo were eliminated.
Poor Keo! Please, DWTS, next time give him a celebrity that can dance and won't cause a scene nearly every week!
Once again, I LOVED Vegas week!
Let's do this theme again next season, dance fans! Fingers crossed!
End of part 2
librarianintx
Samba - Ricky Martin's "Shake Your Bon Bon"
Okay, yes, it could have been down and dirtier, but she definitely shook her bon bon! I love Nancy and Artem together. I'm sure she was nervous, but she had that Nancy Kerrigan smile on her face. She looked very sexy in that Samba dress, and she had some great moves. I liked how she kept moving her hand over her hair and down the side of her face; that was a seductive gesture. It was a bit clean and precise for a Samba, but I thoroughly enjoyed it (even with the extra dancers.) Artem was elated - both with Nancy's performance, and the encounter with Ricky!
Bruno: "saucy! a proper Samba!"
Carrie Ann: "You had the bounce!"
Len: "best dance this season" (!!)
Julianne: "one of the best Sambas I've seen on this show" (!!)
Fantastic reviews; better than I expected!
Scores: 8, 9, 8, 8
My score: 8 (almost a 9!)
David & Lindsay
Jazz - from "Magic Mike the Musical"
It was a weird balance of sexy and comedy, but I was entertained. Lindsay looked KILLER in her black jumpsuit. David had some hot moves, but the red boxers reveal killed the sexy for me and sent the routine more in a comedy direction. But there was definite improvement from the hot mess of last week, and I was impressed with the lift. So it was a bit schizophrenic for me, but overall I liked it. I could tell that David did his homework when he visited the musical.
Carrie Ann: "super Dave!"
Len: "fun and entertaining:
Julianne: "major props"
Scores: 8, 7, 8, 8
My score: 7
Erika & Gleb
Jive
It was NOT fair that extra dancers did TWO lifts with Erika. This is NOT the freestyle round of the finale! Anyway, she looked good, but the Jive is not her dance. She didn't have the bounce, the rhythm, or the balance needed for this dance. But she at least attempted the kicks and flicks, and she did her best to sell the routine. I have to give her credit for trying. And I appreciate her humbleness this week.
Len: "gave it your all"
Julianne: "content for days"
Bruno: "bendy and stretchy"
Carrie Ann: "out of sync"
Scores: 6, 7, 7, 6
My score: 6
Rashad & Emma
Samba
YASSS!
Hip action for days!
Samba rolls, which are so tough to do!
Great bounce!
Musicality!
Off the charts sex appeal and chemistry! They looked like the stars of an R&B music video.
I wish Rashad had been shirtless like he was in rehearsal, but I realize I can't have everything.
In summary: SMOKIN'!!
Unfortunately, the judges disagreed with me.
Julianne: "the song worked against you"
Bruno: "natural ability but not as clean or precise"
Len liked the mood and setting.
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
My score: 8
When I watched it a second time, I can understand what the judges are saying. I think Rashad and Emma were a bit out of sync. But it still worked for me. I stand by my score.
Normani & Val
Foxtrot - "Big Spender"
She was 10,000 kinds of hot in that red dress, and OMG, what a Foxtrot! Fast, sharp, precise, classy, sexy, musicality out the yin yang...this routine gets a YASSS from me as well! I wasn't thrilled with the table part at the end though; I thought it threw off their rhythm just a bit and it didn't give Normani the big finish that she deserved in this dance. Val leaped off the table, but she just laid down on it. If she had jumped into his arms, that would have been way better. So the end was a disappointment, but the rest of the performance was first rate!
Bruno: "big splendor! Fabulous - best of the night!"
Len: "full of joy"
Julianne: "Broadway" (that was a compliment)
But Carrie Ann was the lift police (booooo!!)
Scores: 8, 8, 9, 9
My score: 9 (It might have been a 10 if the end had been more exciting)
Charo & Keo and Nick & Peta were the bottom two couples.
Charo & Keo were eliminated.
Poor Keo! Please, DWTS, next time give him a celebrity that can dance and won't cause a scene nearly every week!
Once again, I LOVED Vegas week!
Let's do this theme again next season, dance fans! Fingers crossed!
End of part 2
librarianintx
Dancing with the Stars Vegas Nite Part 1
First of all let me say that I absolutely LOVED Vegas Nite, and I hope it becomes a staple of every season. The music and routines were fantastic, and just about every contestant raised their level of game this week.
Here we go!
Nick & Peta
Tango - Lady Gaga's "Poker Face"
I saw much improvement this week! Nick looked noticeably calmer, centered, and focused. The steps were crisp and polished, probably a little too careful actually, but there was intensity too, and definitely chemistry. Good job Nick!
Julianne: "You delivered"
Bruno appreciated his effort, but said he was stomping.
Carrie Ann: "It all came together"
Scores: 7,6,7,6
My score: 7
Mr. T & Kym
Foxtrot - Dean Martin's "Ain't That a Kick in the Head"
Okay, he had absolutely no frame, and he bungled the hat toss, but luckily one of the extra dancers (grrr) kicked it out of the way so he didn't trip over it. But on the plus side, he is definitely trying. And he looked happy out there. He attempted some musicality. I have to give him some points for effort.
Julianne: "debonair man" (He did look handsome!)
Bruno: "You got the style right"
Carrie Ann: "The audience was behind you"
Len: "gentle giant"
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6
My score: 6
Bonner & Sharna
Charleston - from "Mad, Star-Crossed Love"
He can't do lifts because of his injury. Their chemistry sizzled before they even started dancing. and I was impressed by his lightness and musicality. But the extra dancers ruined this for me. They were way too involved. And unfortunately, without the lifts and tricks, the routine was a bit boring for me. So they were not as good as last week, but I still a lot of potential.
Bruno: "needed to be higher octane"
Carrie Ann: "needed to be extraverted"
Len: "too safe"
Julianne: "needed more personality
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6
My score: 6
Heather & Maks (Alan)
Tango - Britney Spears' "Toxic"
She looked SLAMMIN' in that nude gown with her long hair flying - holy cow! She's had two kids? She and Alan are HOT together! They achieved tremendous speed on their Tango, and the camera work made the spins even more impressive. And thank goodness the show has used the original music in every routine so far! I loved the speed, intensity, and precision of this dance. Great job!! Maks was grinning!
Carrie Ann: "You brought the ballroom to Britney!"
Len: "loads of Tango content"
Julianne: "Y'all were so connected"
Scores: 9, 8, 8, 8
My score: 9
Charo & Keo
Foxtrot - "Chapel of Love"
I saw a calmer, more focused Charo, both in the routine and during the critique (what a relief!) It was impossible to see her footwork because her gown was so long; she had to hike it up constantly like she did last week. But there was a nice flow of movement, and it was actually a sweet, enjoyable dance.
Len: "lovely routine"
Juliane: "sweet and innocent"
Bruno: "refreshing, demure"
But Carrie Ann missed the "cuchi cuchi" which made Keo and Tom visibly afraid. :)
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6,
My score: 6
Simone & Sasha
Quickstep - Elvis' "Viva Las Vegas"
WOW! That dance definitely put the "quick" in Quickstep! It was a fun, high octane dance with a lot of personality. I especially liked the Elvis moves at the beginning of the routine, before they commenced tearing around the floor at warp speed. Simone had to get accustomed to being in hold, and I thought her frame was good. Man, that was fast: energizer bunny speed!
Julianne: "on your game"
Bruno: "fast track to Vegas"
Carrie Ann: "fantastic, but there was a lift"
Len: "fast, but in control"
Scores: 7, 8, 9, 8
My score: 9
End of Part 1
Here we go!
Nick & Peta
Tango - Lady Gaga's "Poker Face"
I saw much improvement this week! Nick looked noticeably calmer, centered, and focused. The steps were crisp and polished, probably a little too careful actually, but there was intensity too, and definitely chemistry. Good job Nick!
Julianne: "You delivered"
Bruno appreciated his effort, but said he was stomping.
Carrie Ann: "It all came together"
Scores: 7,6,7,6
My score: 7
Mr. T & Kym
Foxtrot - Dean Martin's "Ain't That a Kick in the Head"
Okay, he had absolutely no frame, and he bungled the hat toss, but luckily one of the extra dancers (grrr) kicked it out of the way so he didn't trip over it. But on the plus side, he is definitely trying. And he looked happy out there. He attempted some musicality. I have to give him some points for effort.
Julianne: "debonair man" (He did look handsome!)
Bruno: "You got the style right"
Carrie Ann: "The audience was behind you"
Len: "gentle giant"
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6
My score: 6
Bonner & Sharna
Charleston - from "Mad, Star-Crossed Love"
He can't do lifts because of his injury. Their chemistry sizzled before they even started dancing. and I was impressed by his lightness and musicality. But the extra dancers ruined this for me. They were way too involved. And unfortunately, without the lifts and tricks, the routine was a bit boring for me. So they were not as good as last week, but I still a lot of potential.
Bruno: "needed to be higher octane"
Carrie Ann: "needed to be extraverted"
Len: "too safe"
Julianne: "needed more personality
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6
My score: 6
Heather & Maks (Alan)
Tango - Britney Spears' "Toxic"
She looked SLAMMIN' in that nude gown with her long hair flying - holy cow! She's had two kids? She and Alan are HOT together! They achieved tremendous speed on their Tango, and the camera work made the spins even more impressive. And thank goodness the show has used the original music in every routine so far! I loved the speed, intensity, and precision of this dance. Great job!! Maks was grinning!
Carrie Ann: "You brought the ballroom to Britney!"
Len: "loads of Tango content"
Julianne: "Y'all were so connected"
Scores: 9, 8, 8, 8
My score: 9
Charo & Keo
Foxtrot - "Chapel of Love"
I saw a calmer, more focused Charo, both in the routine and during the critique (what a relief!) It was impossible to see her footwork because her gown was so long; she had to hike it up constantly like she did last week. But there was a nice flow of movement, and it was actually a sweet, enjoyable dance.
Len: "lovely routine"
Juliane: "sweet and innocent"
Bruno: "refreshing, demure"
But Carrie Ann missed the "cuchi cuchi" which made Keo and Tom visibly afraid. :)
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6,
My score: 6
Simone & Sasha
Quickstep - Elvis' "Viva Las Vegas"
WOW! That dance definitely put the "quick" in Quickstep! It was a fun, high octane dance with a lot of personality. I especially liked the Elvis moves at the beginning of the routine, before they commenced tearing around the floor at warp speed. Simone had to get accustomed to being in hold, and I thought her frame was good. Man, that was fast: energizer bunny speed!
Julianne: "on your game"
Bruno: "fast track to Vegas"
Carrie Ann: "fantastic, but there was a lift"
Len: "fast, but in control"
Scores: 7, 8, 9, 8
My score: 9
End of Part 1
Monday, April 03, 2017
Week Three of Sugar Journal
I didn't do great, but I could have done worse.
Did I say that in week two also?
I drank 8 ounces of apple juice three days this week.
I ate low sugar cookies most, but not every day this week.
I enjoyed a mini cupcake last Monday.
And on Saturday I indulged in three bites of red velvet cheesecake. A friend took me out for a late birthday dinner. When she told the waiter that we were going to share a dessert, I told her that I was trying to cut back on sugar so I would only eat a bite or two. I would have been fine if she had said, "Okay, we won't order dessert." But she did order it, so I felt I had to take a few bites. Of course it was delicious. :)
I also ate something called a beaver nugget. Beaver nuggets are sold in big bags at Buc-ees, an awesome convenience store in central Texas. I'd never heard of beaver nuggets until Saturday. A beaver bugget tastes kind of like and resembles captain crunch cereal, but drenched in maple syrup. It was instantly addictive, like crack, but I only ate one. So that was my success of the week - limiting myself to one beaver nugget.
librarianintx
Did I say that in week two also?
I drank 8 ounces of apple juice three days this week.
I ate low sugar cookies most, but not every day this week.
I enjoyed a mini cupcake last Monday.
And on Saturday I indulged in three bites of red velvet cheesecake. A friend took me out for a late birthday dinner. When she told the waiter that we were going to share a dessert, I told her that I was trying to cut back on sugar so I would only eat a bite or two. I would have been fine if she had said, "Okay, we won't order dessert." But she did order it, so I felt I had to take a few bites. Of course it was delicious. :)
I also ate something called a beaver nugget. Beaver nuggets are sold in big bags at Buc-ees, an awesome convenience store in central Texas. I'd never heard of beaver nuggets until Saturday. A beaver bugget tastes kind of like and resembles captain crunch cereal, but drenched in maple syrup. It was instantly addictive, like crack, but I only ate one. So that was my success of the week - limiting myself to one beaver nugget.
librarianintx
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
DWTS Nite 2 Part 2
Simone & Sasha
Cha Cha
It always helps when they dance to a great song. The routine had a lot of energy but I thought it was low on cha cha content. The tricks were fun, but flips and splits aren't usually a part of cha cha. I think Sasha choreographed more side-by-side dancing because Simone wasn't comfortable dancing sexy with him. I still enjoyed it. It was spicy and exciting.
Bruno: "smoldering"
Carrie Ann: "out of sync"
Len liked it (rather surprising in my opinion)
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 8
Chris & Whitney
Jazz
Um....
He says he can dance, even though he has rods in his back. But that wasn't really dancing. Once again, it was a comedy routine. Or was it? I'm confused. Was it intentionally bad dancing again, or am I being harsh when he was actually trying? I honestly don't know. I guess there was a smidge of improvement. But if it was intentionally bad again, don't look hurt and upset when you get 5's.
Yay for the fun song. Boo for the extra dancers!
I guess the judges felt they needed to be encouraging.
Carrie Ann is inspired by him.
Even Len liked it! (????)
Bruno said he enjoyed it.
Scores: 6, 5, 6, 5
Normani & Val
Oh my goodness, they just got off a flight from Japan! And after the show they leave for China! That's quite an insane schedule!
They danced a great cha cha! Lots of content, lots of partnering, and the crowd added energy to the performance. I wish the stage had been bigger though; the dance felt a bit restricted at times. Still, a very solid routine. They have strong chemistry and she looked stunning in her yellow dress.
Julianne: "rock star"
Bruno: "jet set"
Carrie Ann: "dancing with a star - star quality"
Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8
Rashad & Emma
Viennese Waltz
Last week was not a fluke! Rashad is a contender!
That was a strong, sexy, Viennese Waltz. Rashad had very good partnering skills and a good frame. He was the man on that floor; Emma was not leading him, or doing all the work in the routine. They covered the dance floor, and the performance had a lovely, lyrical quality. I was very impressed. These two have chemistry out the wazoo!
Julianne: "so hot - you are the man!"
Bruno: "steamy - 50 shades of Viennese Waltz"
Len: "flow and movement - flat footed - but I liked it"
Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8
Mr T & Kym
Paso Doble
You can tell he's trying. The paso likely suits his ability more than any other dance. Kym did most of the work but he had some partnering skills in there. It wasn't much of an improvement from last week, but some is better than none.
Bruno: "You needed big moves"
Carrie Ann: "You hit every step"
Len: "I salute you"
Julianne: "intensity and focus"
Scores: 6, 5, 6, 5
David & Lindsay
Cha Cha
The song was "Bust a Move," which was so fun. Once they finally got to the dance floor, the routine wasn't half bad. There was at least a little cha cha in there. It was entertaining. But it was also a hot mess. And there were extra dancers. :( A cute ending to Latin week, but not a strong finish.
Carrie Ann was disappointed.
Len: "pigeon-toed"
Julianne: "charisma"
Bruno: "put on a show"
Scores: 7, 6, 7, 7 (Okay, this time I agree with Len. That dance did not deserve 7's)
The elimination was very rushed. Charo & Keo and Chris & Whitney were in the bottom. Chris & Whitney went home. I wish it had been Charo. Hopefully next week.
Normani & Val and Rashad & Emma tied for the high score of the night with 32.
My favorite routines:
Nancy & Artem
Heather & Alan
Normani & Val
Rashad & Emma
Thanks for reading dance fans!
librarianintx
Cha Cha
It always helps when they dance to a great song. The routine had a lot of energy but I thought it was low on cha cha content. The tricks were fun, but flips and splits aren't usually a part of cha cha. I think Sasha choreographed more side-by-side dancing because Simone wasn't comfortable dancing sexy with him. I still enjoyed it. It was spicy and exciting.
Bruno: "smoldering"
Carrie Ann: "out of sync"
Len liked it (rather surprising in my opinion)
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 8
Chris & Whitney
Jazz
Um....
He says he can dance, even though he has rods in his back. But that wasn't really dancing. Once again, it was a comedy routine. Or was it? I'm confused. Was it intentionally bad dancing again, or am I being harsh when he was actually trying? I honestly don't know. I guess there was a smidge of improvement. But if it was intentionally bad again, don't look hurt and upset when you get 5's.
Yay for the fun song. Boo for the extra dancers!
I guess the judges felt they needed to be encouraging.
Carrie Ann is inspired by him.
Even Len liked it! (????)
Bruno said he enjoyed it.
Scores: 6, 5, 6, 5
Normani & Val
Oh my goodness, they just got off a flight from Japan! And after the show they leave for China! That's quite an insane schedule!
They danced a great cha cha! Lots of content, lots of partnering, and the crowd added energy to the performance. I wish the stage had been bigger though; the dance felt a bit restricted at times. Still, a very solid routine. They have strong chemistry and she looked stunning in her yellow dress.
Julianne: "rock star"
Bruno: "jet set"
Carrie Ann: "dancing with a star - star quality"
Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8
Rashad & Emma
Viennese Waltz
Last week was not a fluke! Rashad is a contender!
That was a strong, sexy, Viennese Waltz. Rashad had very good partnering skills and a good frame. He was the man on that floor; Emma was not leading him, or doing all the work in the routine. They covered the dance floor, and the performance had a lovely, lyrical quality. I was very impressed. These two have chemistry out the wazoo!
Julianne: "so hot - you are the man!"
Bruno: "steamy - 50 shades of Viennese Waltz"
Len: "flow and movement - flat footed - but I liked it"
Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8
Mr T & Kym
Paso Doble
You can tell he's trying. The paso likely suits his ability more than any other dance. Kym did most of the work but he had some partnering skills in there. It wasn't much of an improvement from last week, but some is better than none.
Bruno: "You needed big moves"
Carrie Ann: "You hit every step"
Len: "I salute you"
Julianne: "intensity and focus"
Scores: 6, 5, 6, 5
David & Lindsay
Cha Cha
The song was "Bust a Move," which was so fun. Once they finally got to the dance floor, the routine wasn't half bad. There was at least a little cha cha in there. It was entertaining. But it was also a hot mess. And there were extra dancers. :( A cute ending to Latin week, but not a strong finish.
Carrie Ann was disappointed.
Len: "pigeon-toed"
Julianne: "charisma"
Bruno: "put on a show"
Scores: 7, 6, 7, 7 (Okay, this time I agree with Len. That dance did not deserve 7's)
The elimination was very rushed. Charo & Keo and Chris & Whitney were in the bottom. Chris & Whitney went home. I wish it had been Charo. Hopefully next week.
Normani & Val and Rashad & Emma tied for the high score of the night with 32.
My favorite routines:
Nancy & Artem
Heather & Alan
Normani & Val
Rashad & Emma
Thanks for reading dance fans!
librarianintx
DWTS Recap Nite 2 Part 1
It was Latin Nite, but they didn't make as big a deal about that as they usually do.
Nancy & Artem
Cha Cha
Artem is so excited to have a contender!
I loved their pink outfits!
I thought it was a crisp, tight, sharp, proper cha cha, although she lost her balance at the end of the routine. It could have been down and dirtier, but I enjoyed it. She looks so happy!
Oops, Artem had some kind of wardrobe malfunction at the end. Why didn't they let us see it?! :)
The judges were not as happy with the dance as I was.
Julianne: "missed a step - it threw you off"
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
Erika & Gleb
Foxtrot
"I don't need you to like me; I need you to make me look good" Erika to Gleb. Okay. That will make for a strong partnership. Not.
It was good in places; it was rough in places. There was a stumble or two. It was a sexy dance. But I just have a hard time rooting for her. I know I should just be critiquing the routine, but I'm an emotional person. Personality plays into it for me.
The judges liked the dance better than I did.
Julianne liked her confidence and liked the routine.
Bruno said she had good lines.
Len: "a little past romantic"
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
Charo & Keo
Paso Doble
Okay, she looks amazing! And it seemed like once again, this dance would be in her wheelhouse. But she struggled a lot with her costume. Her dancing just didn't quite match with the intensity of the music. Given her age, she did pretty well, but overall, the routine didn't live up to the build up that was presented in the pre-dance video package. I was also surprised at how short the performance was.
She was also exceedingly annoying during and after the judges' critiques: yelling, running around, screaming, arguing, insulting Bruno. I guess it was supposed to be funny, but I just felt sorry for Tom and Keo. Poor Keo. He deserves combat pay this season. What does DWTS have against him? His partner last season, Jodie Sweetin, was a decent dancer, but not a contender. Every other season Keo has been given terrible partners.
Scores: 6, 6, 7, 6
Nick & Peta
Foxtrot
Another short routine.
I thought in the beginning Peta made him look pretty good. But overall I wasn't impressed with his frame or his partnering skills. The dance looked messy. But I think there's still potential here. He needs some of Erika's confidence - and a meditation lesson or something. He did look very dapper at least.
Carrie Ann: "breathe and relax!"
Len: "too hectic - no control"
Julianne: "less is more - simplify"
Bruno: "too skippy"
Scores: 7, 5, 7, 6 (I thought Len's score was too low. It wasn't THAT bad.)
Heather & Maks
Jive
Ooops, Maks is injured. Here comes Alan to the rescue!
The hip hop / extra dancers interlude in the middle of the routine was unnecessary. This was a fantastic dance: fun, flirty, sexy, high energy, but not over the top. Heather and Alan had mad chemistry, and Heather showed lots of personality. She looked young and exuberant. I loved it!
Carrie Ann also loved it.
Len didn't like the hip hop part (no surprise there)
Julianne thought it was hesitant.
Scores: 8, 6, 8, 8 (Len is an a$$. That dance did NOT deserve a 6!)
Bonner & Sharna
Viennese Waltz
Bonner said this dance ties in to his roots of the Texas two step...um...okay...
Another short routine!
But it was lovely and definitely romantic. I saw a big improvement from last week. Bonner was tender and his partnering skills and frame were quite good. I liked it. The music fit well with the dance too, even though it was a country song.
Julianne: "great execution"
Bruno: "sweet and touching"
Carrie Ann: "elegant and refined"
Scores: 8, 6, 8, 7 (What is Len's problem tonight?!?!)
End of Part 1
Nancy & Artem
Cha Cha
Artem is so excited to have a contender!
I loved their pink outfits!
I thought it was a crisp, tight, sharp, proper cha cha, although she lost her balance at the end of the routine. It could have been down and dirtier, but I enjoyed it. She looks so happy!
Oops, Artem had some kind of wardrobe malfunction at the end. Why didn't they let us see it?! :)
The judges were not as happy with the dance as I was.
Julianne: "missed a step - it threw you off"
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
Erika & Gleb
Foxtrot
"I don't need you to like me; I need you to make me look good" Erika to Gleb. Okay. That will make for a strong partnership. Not.
It was good in places; it was rough in places. There was a stumble or two. It was a sexy dance. But I just have a hard time rooting for her. I know I should just be critiquing the routine, but I'm an emotional person. Personality plays into it for me.
The judges liked the dance better than I did.
Julianne liked her confidence and liked the routine.
Bruno said she had good lines.
Len: "a little past romantic"
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
Charo & Keo
Paso Doble
Okay, she looks amazing! And it seemed like once again, this dance would be in her wheelhouse. But she struggled a lot with her costume. Her dancing just didn't quite match with the intensity of the music. Given her age, she did pretty well, but overall, the routine didn't live up to the build up that was presented in the pre-dance video package. I was also surprised at how short the performance was.
She was also exceedingly annoying during and after the judges' critiques: yelling, running around, screaming, arguing, insulting Bruno. I guess it was supposed to be funny, but I just felt sorry for Tom and Keo. Poor Keo. He deserves combat pay this season. What does DWTS have against him? His partner last season, Jodie Sweetin, was a decent dancer, but not a contender. Every other season Keo has been given terrible partners.
Scores: 6, 6, 7, 6
Nick & Peta
Foxtrot
Another short routine.
I thought in the beginning Peta made him look pretty good. But overall I wasn't impressed with his frame or his partnering skills. The dance looked messy. But I think there's still potential here. He needs some of Erika's confidence - and a meditation lesson or something. He did look very dapper at least.
Carrie Ann: "breathe and relax!"
Len: "too hectic - no control"
Julianne: "less is more - simplify"
Bruno: "too skippy"
Scores: 7, 5, 7, 6 (I thought Len's score was too low. It wasn't THAT bad.)
Heather & Maks
Jive
Ooops, Maks is injured. Here comes Alan to the rescue!
The hip hop / extra dancers interlude in the middle of the routine was unnecessary. This was a fantastic dance: fun, flirty, sexy, high energy, but not over the top. Heather and Alan had mad chemistry, and Heather showed lots of personality. She looked young and exuberant. I loved it!
Carrie Ann also loved it.
Len didn't like the hip hop part (no surprise there)
Julianne thought it was hesitant.
Scores: 8, 6, 8, 8 (Len is an a$$. That dance did NOT deserve a 6!)
Bonner & Sharna
Viennese Waltz
Bonner said this dance ties in to his roots of the Texas two step...um...okay...
Another short routine!
But it was lovely and definitely romantic. I saw a big improvement from last week. Bonner was tender and his partnering skills and frame were quite good. I liked it. The music fit well with the dance too, even though it was a country song.
Julianne: "great execution"
Bruno: "sweet and touching"
Carrie Ann: "elegant and refined"
Scores: 8, 6, 8, 7 (What is Len's problem tonight?!?!)
End of Part 1
Monday, March 27, 2017
Week Two of Sugar Journal
From Sunday, March 19th - Sunday, March 26th:
It wasn't a great week, sugar-wise, but it could have been worse.
On the plus side:
I only had one serving of juice.
I only had one serving of Gatorade
On the minus side:
I had low sugar cookies five of the seven days.
I had a serving of something called "brownie brittle" (14 g of sugar) on Saturday. It is VERY good!
I also had Greek yogurt five of the seven days, but I've already given myself permission to have that.
So yeah, could have done better, but definitely could have been worse. I'm blaming hormones to a certain extent.
I'm starting the week on a bad note, though. I just ate a mini vanilla cupcake. At least it was a mini, and I only ate one. I can at least congratulate myself that I stopped at one. And I didn't eat any of the candy that was set out next to the cupcakes at work.
My willpower sucks. But I'm working on it.
librarianintx
It wasn't a great week, sugar-wise, but it could have been worse.
On the plus side:
I only had one serving of juice.
I only had one serving of Gatorade
On the minus side:
I had low sugar cookies five of the seven days.
I had a serving of something called "brownie brittle" (14 g of sugar) on Saturday. It is VERY good!
I also had Greek yogurt five of the seven days, but I've already given myself permission to have that.
So yeah, could have done better, but definitely could have been worse. I'm blaming hormones to a certain extent.
I'm starting the week on a bad note, though. I just ate a mini vanilla cupcake. At least it was a mini, and I only ate one. I can at least congratulate myself that I stopped at one. And I didn't eat any of the candy that was set out next to the cupcakes at work.
My willpower sucks. But I'm working on it.
librarianintx
Thursday, March 23, 2017
Inspirational Meme on Facebook
The quote says it all.
You always have the ability to save yourself,
to make your life better,
to be your own shelter,
your own salvation.
You have the power.
It is forever within you.
librarianintx
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
DWTS Recap Nite 1 Part 2
Heather and Maks
Viennese Waltz
Yup, he's still arrogant.
This was a very fast Viennese Waltz. And it was a very strong Viennese Waltz. I thought her yellow dress looked beautiful on her, and they make a striking couple. Their technique was better than Nancy and Artem, but I preferred Nancy and Artem's dance. It had more artistry, more expression, more soul. It made me feel more than Heather and Mak's routine. I liked this, but my expectations were higher.
Carrie Ann: "beautiful lines, but you're hiding your personality"
Julianne: "grace and youthful exuberance"
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
David and Lindsay
Quickstep
He is the first baseball player on DWTS!
The song was cute and I liked the baseball theme. I love his personality, and I adore Lindsay, but this dance was just okay for me. The judges liked it more than I did. I don't have much to say about it. It was good, but not great. The theme is what made it memorable for me.
Carrie Ann: "one of my favorite dances"
Len: "not a home run, but you got to first base"
Scores: 7, 7, 7. 7
Erika and Gleb
Salsa
She's a singer in addition to being on the "Real Housewives".
That was a salsa? Um...okay. I didn't see a lot of salsa content. I also didn't see a lot of chemistry. It was over the top, and I'm not sure how popular this dance...or she...will be with the fans. I'm all for female empowerment and a strong, confident woman, but her personality is off-putting. I found it hard to root for her. There's confidence and then there's arrogance. She doesn't have an endearing personality.
Len: "flair and confidence but too raunchy"
Bruno: "caligula's palace"
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6
Rasha and Emma
Cha Cha
There it is!
There's the DWTS performance that will be on repeat for me!
OMG, Emma might FINALLY have a contender!!
Hands down, this was the performance of the night, and most definitely the song of the night for me. I adore Bruno Mars, and that song is made to dance to! It was a super fun, sparkly, AND proper cha cha. I loved everything about it! Dance of the night for me!
Tom: "solid gold!" (Hell, yes!)
Julianne: "best dance of the night!" (Oh, yeah!)
Bruno: "revelation of the night - star quality" (Agreed, but he came across as surprised that his dance was so well-received. He was endearing, not arrogant. Take notes, Erika)
Carrie Ann: "you have our attention" (for sure!)
Of course Len had to be a wet blanket, but whatever.
Scores: 8, 7, 8, 8
Mr. T and Kym
Cha Cha
Um...there were a few seconds of cha cha in that number. The rest of the routine looked like a Mr. T workout video.
That was not dancing.
Period.
And there were extra dancers. Ugh!
Carrie Ann: "lots of mistakes"
Len: "T stands for tenacity and trying, but not technique"
Scores: 5, 5, 5, 5
Simone and Sasha
Tango
The song was fast, and so was the tango. It was crisp, tight, and they covered the floor rapidly. Technique-wise, it was the best dance of the night. Simone had a good frame, and definitely showed that she is a strong contender for the mirrorball trophy. She is a powerhouse, and without a doubt the two shortest dancers in the competition will be a dynamic duo.
Julianne: "the whole package"
Carrie Ann: "power couple"
Len: "dance of the night"
Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8
Final thoughts:
Overall, it was an enjoyable first night of the season, and I look forward to the weeks to come. There are some strong dancers this time, especially among the ladies, as I expected. My favorite three of the night, in order:
1) Rashad and Emma
2) Nancy and Artem
3) Simone and Sasha
librarianintx
Viennese Waltz
Yup, he's still arrogant.
This was a very fast Viennese Waltz. And it was a very strong Viennese Waltz. I thought her yellow dress looked beautiful on her, and they make a striking couple. Their technique was better than Nancy and Artem, but I preferred Nancy and Artem's dance. It had more artistry, more expression, more soul. It made me feel more than Heather and Mak's routine. I liked this, but my expectations were higher.
Carrie Ann: "beautiful lines, but you're hiding your personality"
Julianne: "grace and youthful exuberance"
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
David and Lindsay
Quickstep
He is the first baseball player on DWTS!
The song was cute and I liked the baseball theme. I love his personality, and I adore Lindsay, but this dance was just okay for me. The judges liked it more than I did. I don't have much to say about it. It was good, but not great. The theme is what made it memorable for me.
Carrie Ann: "one of my favorite dances"
Len: "not a home run, but you got to first base"
Scores: 7, 7, 7. 7
Erika and Gleb
Salsa
She's a singer in addition to being on the "Real Housewives".
That was a salsa? Um...okay. I didn't see a lot of salsa content. I also didn't see a lot of chemistry. It was over the top, and I'm not sure how popular this dance...or she...will be with the fans. I'm all for female empowerment and a strong, confident woman, but her personality is off-putting. I found it hard to root for her. There's confidence and then there's arrogance. She doesn't have an endearing personality.
Len: "flair and confidence but too raunchy"
Bruno: "caligula's palace"
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6
Rasha and Emma
Cha Cha
There it is!
There's the DWTS performance that will be on repeat for me!
OMG, Emma might FINALLY have a contender!!
Hands down, this was the performance of the night, and most definitely the song of the night for me. I adore Bruno Mars, and that song is made to dance to! It was a super fun, sparkly, AND proper cha cha. I loved everything about it! Dance of the night for me!
Tom: "solid gold!" (Hell, yes!)
Julianne: "best dance of the night!" (Oh, yeah!)
Bruno: "revelation of the night - star quality" (Agreed, but he came across as surprised that his dance was so well-received. He was endearing, not arrogant. Take notes, Erika)
Carrie Ann: "you have our attention" (for sure!)
Of course Len had to be a wet blanket, but whatever.
Scores: 8, 7, 8, 8
Mr. T and Kym
Cha Cha
Um...there were a few seconds of cha cha in that number. The rest of the routine looked like a Mr. T workout video.
That was not dancing.
Period.
And there were extra dancers. Ugh!
Carrie Ann: "lots of mistakes"
Len: "T stands for tenacity and trying, but not technique"
Scores: 5, 5, 5, 5
Simone and Sasha
Tango
The song was fast, and so was the tango. It was crisp, tight, and they covered the floor rapidly. Technique-wise, it was the best dance of the night. Simone had a good frame, and definitely showed that she is a strong contender for the mirrorball trophy. She is a powerhouse, and without a doubt the two shortest dancers in the competition will be a dynamic duo.
Julianne: "the whole package"
Carrie Ann: "power couple"
Len: "dance of the night"
Scores: 8, 8, 8, 8
Final thoughts:
Overall, it was an enjoyable first night of the season, and I look forward to the weeks to come. There are some strong dancers this time, especially among the ladies, as I expected. My favorite three of the night, in order:
1) Rashad and Emma
2) Nancy and Artem
3) Simone and Sasha
librarianintx
DWTS Recap Nite 1 Part 1
Here we go, dance fans! :)
The opening was very cute, and I think it gave me some insights on who can dance this season.
Normani and Val
Quickstep
This quickstep was VERY quick! Very energetic. I was worried about her long white dress (which looked GREAT on her, by the way), but thank goodness she didn't fall. I thought it was a very strong first dance. The music was as fast-paced as the dance.
Tom: "high octane start"
Len: "needed more body contact, but first class"
Carrie Ann, Julianne, and Bruno all gave positive comments.
Scores: 7, 6, 7, 7 (Very respectable scores for a first dance. Len usually grades low.)
Nancy and Artem
Viennese Waltz
I love the Viennese Waltz, and I absolutely adored this one! It all worked perfectly for me - the music, the lovely blue costumes, the wonderful flow of movement they had across the stage - everything. Nancy still has that dazzling smile, and she looked positively radiant during the dance. Perhaps it was a tad choppy in places, but I thought it was a dreamy dance. They make a stunning couple.
Julianne agreed that "it was a bit bumpy" but she loved Nancy's arm extensions.
Len: " a pairing with great promise" (I agree!)
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
Chris and Whitney
Cha Cha
Okay, I am SO happy that he used his iconic song from "Saturday Night Love." "What is Love" is such a great song. And I totally get that it was intentionally bad dancing. And I guess that's okay for week one. But he can't do intentionally bad dancing every week and expect to stay. The voting public will tire of that I think. It was all comedy for him; only Whitney and the extra dancers (grrr!) were doing the cha cha.
Bruno: "cha cha cha in an alternative universe"
Julianne: "you did your thing. Don't lose that."
Scores: 5, 4, 4, 4
Chris was obviously disappointed in the scores, and I'm sorry, but that irritated me. Did he think he should have received the scores that Normani and Nancy earned? He didn't dance! He jerked his body around and let his partner do the dancing. Comedy is great, but you have to actually dance in order to earn scores.
Rant over.
Let's move on.
Bonner and Sharna
HELLO Bonner!
Yowsa!
Cha Cha
That opening when they met each other on the ranch, or whatever, looked like the beginning of a porno. Not that I've seen that many pornos, of course. But wow, what a set up. Unfortunately, the dance didn't deliver that level of sex appeal that was very evident in the beginning. I mean, he's definitely hot, she's definitely hot, the chemistry is absolutely there, but they were out of sync pretty much the entire dance. His pelvic thrusts were great, but their bodies were not together at the right times. It was a rather sloppy dance, and the lights and annoying extra dancers were distracting. There is absolutely potential here though. Overall I just felt let down. It was a smokin hot introduction with a disappointing outcome.
Len: "work in progress"
Julianne: "a little behind the music"
Bruno: "Sharna, you are in for the ride of a lifetime!"
Scores: 6, 5, 5, 6
Charo and Keo
Salsa
Well, it wasn't fair, really, because salsa is in her wheelhouse. This would be like giving Heather hip hop or pop on the first week. That is what she already knows how to dance, and I would guess that Charo already knows at least some salsa. It was campy, it was predictable, and it was at least a fairly proper salsa. There was virtually no rehearsal footage; why do you think that was? Maybe because she already knows how to dance salsa?
Len: "nailed the performance - need to work on the technique"
Bruno: "caliente!"
Scores: 6, 5, 5, 5
I thought her antics during the judges' critiques and scores was highly annoying. Her screaming into the mike and causing a ruckus got old very quickly for me. Poor Keo. When he is going to get a contender?
Nick and Peta
Cha Cha
I don't watch "The Bachelor," so this is my first time "meeting" Nick. He's funny. And very cute. He gave Bruno a rose and blew him a kiss! I loved that! Overall, it was a strong first dance. He did some recognizable cha cha moves and had good hip action. I also thought his chemistry with Peta was solid. Their connections were a bit choppy a time or two, but better than Bonner and Sharna in my opinion.
Bruno likened him to Justin Timberlake (I totally see that!)
Carrie Ann: "a bit disjointed...calm down"
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6
End of Part 1
The opening was very cute, and I think it gave me some insights on who can dance this season.
Normani and Val
Quickstep
This quickstep was VERY quick! Very energetic. I was worried about her long white dress (which looked GREAT on her, by the way), but thank goodness she didn't fall. I thought it was a very strong first dance. The music was as fast-paced as the dance.
Tom: "high octane start"
Len: "needed more body contact, but first class"
Carrie Ann, Julianne, and Bruno all gave positive comments.
Scores: 7, 6, 7, 7 (Very respectable scores for a first dance. Len usually grades low.)
Nancy and Artem
Viennese Waltz
I love the Viennese Waltz, and I absolutely adored this one! It all worked perfectly for me - the music, the lovely blue costumes, the wonderful flow of movement they had across the stage - everything. Nancy still has that dazzling smile, and she looked positively radiant during the dance. Perhaps it was a tad choppy in places, but I thought it was a dreamy dance. They make a stunning couple.
Julianne agreed that "it was a bit bumpy" but she loved Nancy's arm extensions.
Len: " a pairing with great promise" (I agree!)
Scores: 7, 7, 7, 7
Chris and Whitney
Cha Cha
Okay, I am SO happy that he used his iconic song from "Saturday Night Love." "What is Love" is such a great song. And I totally get that it was intentionally bad dancing. And I guess that's okay for week one. But he can't do intentionally bad dancing every week and expect to stay. The voting public will tire of that I think. It was all comedy for him; only Whitney and the extra dancers (grrr!) were doing the cha cha.
Bruno: "cha cha cha in an alternative universe"
Julianne: "you did your thing. Don't lose that."
Scores: 5, 4, 4, 4
Chris was obviously disappointed in the scores, and I'm sorry, but that irritated me. Did he think he should have received the scores that Normani and Nancy earned? He didn't dance! He jerked his body around and let his partner do the dancing. Comedy is great, but you have to actually dance in order to earn scores.
Rant over.
Let's move on.
Bonner and Sharna
HELLO Bonner!
Yowsa!
Cha Cha
That opening when they met each other on the ranch, or whatever, looked like the beginning of a porno. Not that I've seen that many pornos, of course. But wow, what a set up. Unfortunately, the dance didn't deliver that level of sex appeal that was very evident in the beginning. I mean, he's definitely hot, she's definitely hot, the chemistry is absolutely there, but they were out of sync pretty much the entire dance. His pelvic thrusts were great, but their bodies were not together at the right times. It was a rather sloppy dance, and the lights and annoying extra dancers were distracting. There is absolutely potential here though. Overall I just felt let down. It was a smokin hot introduction with a disappointing outcome.
Len: "work in progress"
Julianne: "a little behind the music"
Bruno: "Sharna, you are in for the ride of a lifetime!"
Scores: 6, 5, 5, 6
Charo and Keo
Salsa
Well, it wasn't fair, really, because salsa is in her wheelhouse. This would be like giving Heather hip hop or pop on the first week. That is what she already knows how to dance, and I would guess that Charo already knows at least some salsa. It was campy, it was predictable, and it was at least a fairly proper salsa. There was virtually no rehearsal footage; why do you think that was? Maybe because she already knows how to dance salsa?
Len: "nailed the performance - need to work on the technique"
Bruno: "caliente!"
Scores: 6, 5, 5, 5
I thought her antics during the judges' critiques and scores was highly annoying. Her screaming into the mike and causing a ruckus got old very quickly for me. Poor Keo. When he is going to get a contender?
Nick and Peta
Cha Cha
I don't watch "The Bachelor," so this is my first time "meeting" Nick. He's funny. And very cute. He gave Bruno a rose and blew him a kiss! I loved that! Overall, it was a strong first dance. He did some recognizable cha cha moves and had good hip action. I also thought his chemistry with Peta was solid. Their connections were a bit choppy a time or two, but better than Bonner and Sharna in my opinion.
Bruno likened him to Justin Timberlake (I totally see that!)
Carrie Ann: "a bit disjointed...calm down"
Scores: 6, 6, 6, 6
End of Part 1
Monday, March 20, 2017
Spotify
I joined Spotify a few weeks ago, and I love it! For less than a cost of a CD per month I have access to virtually the entire world of music! I can listen to albums, lists of hit singles by a particular artist, I can create my own playlists, or listen to playlists created by others. I can listen to today's hits, or look up the Billboard Hot 100 from a particular year. I can download whatever I want to listen to when I don't have access to streaming wi-fi. So I download playlists and albums to my new 64 gig smart phone, and then I have plenty to listen to when I'm on long rides around the city, or on the bus to Houston.
Having Spotify means that I can listen to many artists that I wouldn't otherwise be able to because I can't afford to buy dozens of CD's. And since I am often a bigger fan of singles than album tracks, I like being able to listen to the hit singles of a particular artist. But having Spotify has also made me listen to album tracks more, because I can afford to now!
Hours spent in transit, exercise time, and household chores are so much better with Spotify!
I'm not a paid spokesperson. I'm simply a satisfied customer. Check out Spotify. It is SO worth the money!
librarianintx
Having Spotify means that I can listen to many artists that I wouldn't otherwise be able to because I can't afford to buy dozens of CD's. And since I am often a bigger fan of singles than album tracks, I like being able to listen to the hit singles of a particular artist. But having Spotify has also made me listen to album tracks more, because I can afford to now!
Hours spent in transit, exercise time, and household chores are so much better with Spotify!
I'm not a paid spokesperson. I'm simply a satisfied customer. Check out Spotify. It is SO worth the money!
librarianintx
My Thoughts on the DTWS Cast
Tonight's the night, dance fans! Are you ready?
I'm pleased with this season's cast. There is no one I dislike, so that's a bonus. There are only three people I don't know: Bonner Bolton (bull rider), Rashad Jennings (football player), and Erika Jayne (from the Real Housewives series).
I think there are some serious contenders this season, especially among the ladies. I believe Simone Biles (gymnast) and Heather Morris (Glee actress) will compete for the Mirrorball trophy. Nancy Kerrigan (ice skater) and Normandi Kordsi (Fifth Harmony singer) could also do very well. Rashad Jennings could be a contender. Some NFL players have made it all the way to the top, while some have flamed out early. Charo and Chris Kattan could be the comedic contestants, but who knows? Maybe one or both of them will do well. Charo is paired with Keo, and he has been unlucky nearly every season that he's been on the show, so that doesn't give me much hope for Charo's chances. Same with Emma, who is paired with Rashad, so he may not do well.
I'll miss Derek, Mark, Cheryl, and Jenna this season, but I'm happy that Kym and Peta will be back. We'll see what kind of mood Maks is in. He's got arguably the best celebrity partner this season (Heather Morris), so hopefully he won't be pissy and arrogant. Perhaps fatherhood and impending marriage have changed him.
librarianintx
I'm pleased with this season's cast. There is no one I dislike, so that's a bonus. There are only three people I don't know: Bonner Bolton (bull rider), Rashad Jennings (football player), and Erika Jayne (from the Real Housewives series).
I think there are some serious contenders this season, especially among the ladies. I believe Simone Biles (gymnast) and Heather Morris (Glee actress) will compete for the Mirrorball trophy. Nancy Kerrigan (ice skater) and Normandi Kordsi (Fifth Harmony singer) could also do very well. Rashad Jennings could be a contender. Some NFL players have made it all the way to the top, while some have flamed out early. Charo and Chris Kattan could be the comedic contestants, but who knows? Maybe one or both of them will do well. Charo is paired with Keo, and he has been unlucky nearly every season that he's been on the show, so that doesn't give me much hope for Charo's chances. Same with Emma, who is paired with Rashad, so he may not do well.
I'll miss Derek, Mark, Cheryl, and Jenna this season, but I'm happy that Kym and Peta will be back. We'll see what kind of mood Maks is in. He's got arguably the best celebrity partner this season (Heather Morris), so hopefully he won't be pissy and arrogant. Perhaps fatherhood and impending marriage have changed him.
librarianintx
A Week with Much Less Sugar
If you count Monday - Saturday being one week (because I can't remember for sure what I ate and drank a week ago Sunday, then I think I did fairly well with cutting back pretty drastically on sugar. (I do have a bad habit of qualifying, though, don't I?) :)
During that week, I did not have any salad dressing. I only drank one eight ounce bottle of juice. I did not have any Gatorade!
The one sugary thing I'm allowing myself every day if I want it is Greek yogurt. The kind I buy has 8 grams of sugar I think. I ate yogurt twice that week.
Finally, I ate low sugar cookies twice that week, on Friday and Saturday.
I'm pleased with those stats. The hardest part of this routine is what to drink. I'm not a good water drinker, but I'm trying to become one. I know I am chronically dehydrated, so I'm going to be smart about this. If I have to, I will drink juice or Gatorade to make sure I get liquids. I'm also drinking a protein shake on the days that I don't eat low sugar cookies.
I had an appointment with a breast specialist last week, and I asked her about the research into a correlation between sugar and metastatic breast cancer. She said the correlation is with obesity and breast cancer, not a direct link yet with sugar. But she said cutting back on sugar is good for everyone, and when I told her about the protein drink substitution, she said that's a great idea. She said getting calories from protein rather than sugar is better anyway.
librarianintx
During that week, I did not have any salad dressing. I only drank one eight ounce bottle of juice. I did not have any Gatorade!
The one sugary thing I'm allowing myself every day if I want it is Greek yogurt. The kind I buy has 8 grams of sugar I think. I ate yogurt twice that week.
Finally, I ate low sugar cookies twice that week, on Friday and Saturday.
I'm pleased with those stats. The hardest part of this routine is what to drink. I'm not a good water drinker, but I'm trying to become one. I know I am chronically dehydrated, so I'm going to be smart about this. If I have to, I will drink juice or Gatorade to make sure I get liquids. I'm also drinking a protein shake on the days that I don't eat low sugar cookies.
I had an appointment with a breast specialist last week, and I asked her about the research into a correlation between sugar and metastatic breast cancer. She said the correlation is with obesity and breast cancer, not a direct link yet with sugar. But she said cutting back on sugar is good for everyone, and when I told her about the protein drink substitution, she said that's a great idea. She said getting calories from protein rather than sugar is better anyway.
librarianintx
Tuesday, March 07, 2017
Facebook Meme
On a day like today, when my head is full of worry and doubt and useless rumination, I saw a meme that was exactly what I needed to read. This is the important part:
"Today is not yesterday, so do not look back on what should have been.
Today is not tomorrow, so do not dread the future.
Today is NOW, so be present, alive, hopeful, and productive..."
This should be my mantra.
I was meant to read this today.
Everything happens for a reason.
librarianintx
"Today is not yesterday, so do not look back on what should have been.
Today is not tomorrow, so do not dread the future.
Today is NOW, so be present, alive, hopeful, and productive..."
This should be my mantra.
I was meant to read this today.
Everything happens for a reason.
librarianintx
Thursday, February 23, 2017
Interesting Observation
Something random that I thought about this morning. So much of our behavior is learned behavior. We often learn to fear things or situations at a young age, and it can be difficult to overcome those fears. For some, fears are never overcome. For others, they are able to change their frame of mind. Why can some people do it and other people can't?
Two examples in my life that I think are quite fascinating:
I love butterflies, but I greatly fear cockroaches.
I think squirrels are adorable, but I don't like rats.
How different are butterflies and cockroaches? Both are insects. Both can fly. Both have beady little eyes. Now, its true, butterflies are brightly colored, lovely, and fragile, while cockroaches are not attractive and are tougher creatures. But why can't I change my mindset? I see a cockroach, and my mind instantly reacts with fear. I still remember being terrorized by my older cousin, being chased into the bathroom, him turning the light off and putting a large, live cockroach down the back of my shirt. I remember the apartment complex I lived in with my mother and sister after my dad passed away, where large roaches would squeeze in through the front door. I could hear them scratching in my closet at night, and I even woke up once with one on my pillow. The stuff of nightmares, right? I still have a terrible fight or flight response when I see a cockroach. I haven't been able to get past my fear. But I have the opposite reaction when I see a butterfly. Its all about love and joy and admiration when I see a butterfly. Why can't I change my mindset, my emotions, my physical reactions, and feel no negativity when I see a cockroach?
The example of a squirrel versus a rat is not as extreme, but still comparable. To me a squirrel is cute, fun to watch, interesting, etc. Like rats, squirrels have tails, fur, and beady eyes. Both are rodents, aren't they? Yes, they are, I just googled the answer. :) I'm not as scared of rats, but that's because I've had much less negative experiences with rats. In fact, I've had some positive interactions with rats, because I have a friend who used to raise pet rats. So I've held rats and talked to them and hugged them (as much as you can hug a rat) Still, I'm convinced that if a rat ran across my kitchen floor I would scream and run out of the apartment. But why? What did the rat do to me? Did it bite me, attack me, chase me, harm me in any way? Likely no. So why do I fear them? In the case of rats, I think society's views are one reason. In the case of cockroaches, it's definitely learned behavior because of experiences. My mom has always been afraid of cockroaches as well.
I don't like being so afraid of roaches. Fear takes my power away. It makes me weak. It makes me feel small and stupid and down on myself. I've had a fear of cockroaches pretty much my whole life. Yet I've never been harmed by a roach, except the emotional toll I put on myself due to my fear. So when will I learn that the only damage has basically been self-inflicted? Can I change my way of thinking? Can I eradicate the emotional and physical reactions I have when I encounter a roach? If I see a roach and think calm, beautiful thoughts often enough, can I change the learned behavior?
librarianintx
Two examples in my life that I think are quite fascinating:
I love butterflies, but I greatly fear cockroaches.
I think squirrels are adorable, but I don't like rats.
How different are butterflies and cockroaches? Both are insects. Both can fly. Both have beady little eyes. Now, its true, butterflies are brightly colored, lovely, and fragile, while cockroaches are not attractive and are tougher creatures. But why can't I change my mindset? I see a cockroach, and my mind instantly reacts with fear. I still remember being terrorized by my older cousin, being chased into the bathroom, him turning the light off and putting a large, live cockroach down the back of my shirt. I remember the apartment complex I lived in with my mother and sister after my dad passed away, where large roaches would squeeze in through the front door. I could hear them scratching in my closet at night, and I even woke up once with one on my pillow. The stuff of nightmares, right? I still have a terrible fight or flight response when I see a cockroach. I haven't been able to get past my fear. But I have the opposite reaction when I see a butterfly. Its all about love and joy and admiration when I see a butterfly. Why can't I change my mindset, my emotions, my physical reactions, and feel no negativity when I see a cockroach?
The example of a squirrel versus a rat is not as extreme, but still comparable. To me a squirrel is cute, fun to watch, interesting, etc. Like rats, squirrels have tails, fur, and beady eyes. Both are rodents, aren't they? Yes, they are, I just googled the answer. :) I'm not as scared of rats, but that's because I've had much less negative experiences with rats. In fact, I've had some positive interactions with rats, because I have a friend who used to raise pet rats. So I've held rats and talked to them and hugged them (as much as you can hug a rat) Still, I'm convinced that if a rat ran across my kitchen floor I would scream and run out of the apartment. But why? What did the rat do to me? Did it bite me, attack me, chase me, harm me in any way? Likely no. So why do I fear them? In the case of rats, I think society's views are one reason. In the case of cockroaches, it's definitely learned behavior because of experiences. My mom has always been afraid of cockroaches as well.
I don't like being so afraid of roaches. Fear takes my power away. It makes me weak. It makes me feel small and stupid and down on myself. I've had a fear of cockroaches pretty much my whole life. Yet I've never been harmed by a roach, except the emotional toll I put on myself due to my fear. So when will I learn that the only damage has basically been self-inflicted? Can I change my way of thinking? Can I eradicate the emotional and physical reactions I have when I encounter a roach? If I see a roach and think calm, beautiful thoughts often enough, can I change the learned behavior?
librarianintx
My Comment About Facebook
I want to clarify something I said in my previous post. I made a comment about Facebook being mindless. Or at least that's how I think people will interpret it. But I don't think Facebook, or any social media, is mindless. I am a fan of social media. I think Facebook and other social media are important tools in our society. What my intention was in the comment is that sometimes I spend too much time mindlessly scrolling through Facebook. I feel I could be making better use of the day doing something productive like reading or writing. Facebook plays a role in my life, and I have no plans to give it up. What I would like to do is curtail the time I spend there. I want my time with Facebook to be quality versus quantity.
librarianintx
librarianintx
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
This morning
This morning was all about not wasting time. Not a single precious second.
First accomplishment of the morning: I got out of bed ten minutes earlier than usual! Good job! I shouldn't admit that ten minutes early is ten minutes after my first of three alarms goes off. It's still an accomplishment!
First disappointment of the day: Even though I got up ten minutes early, I was only ready five minutes early.
But five minutes is five minutes! It's amazing how much you can achieve in five minutes.
First new routine: Taking my vitamins before I leave. The concern here is that the half a glass of water I consume with the vitamins will result in an uncomfortable need to urinate during the as-yet unknown duration of my morning ride to work. But I take a chance and drink the water. Update: All went well in that department.
Second new routine: Exercising during the wait for my ride to arrive. I have tried various ways to make good use of the time that Metro Access keeps me waiting during their frustrating thirty minute window. Journaling hasn't worked. I can't get on the computer because I have to be looking out the window. Checking Facebook is mindless enough, but that's why I want to find a more productive activity. Exercising might be the solution. It's something I can do while still obsessively watching the parking lot. Being ready five minutes early doesn't feel like an accomplishment when you end up standing at the window for sometimes as long as thirty minutes, or more. I only did three lunges on each leg, one leg lift on each side for ten reps, and ten toe lifts. Didn't want to overdue on the first morning. I can do more later.
Second accomplishment of the morning: I was able to make good use of the hour-long ride by reading in the car. Thankfully the headache and nausea that often accompany such an endeavor decided to stay at bay this morning. I could have listened to my audio book, which would have minimized the chance for illness. But I wasn't in the mood for hearing about the search for the bodies of the Romanov Imperialist family.
Second disappointment of the morning: While my inner ear symptoms didn't impede me, the flaming sunrise did, but luckily only at times. I managed to get to page 34 of The Fundamentals of Caregiving that I'm reading on the Nook app on my phone. That would be even more of a cause for celebration if I knew what page I started on when I entered the vehicle, but hey, I'll take it. And hopefully I managed to close my eyes often enough that I'm not any closer to cataracts than I was before I stubbornly refused to wear my non-prescription sunglasses.
So I arrived at work feeling at least somewhat accomplished: I read, I exercised, I took my vitamins, I got a head start on my daily water consumption without a bathroom emergency.
Success!
librarianintx
First accomplishment of the morning: I got out of bed ten minutes earlier than usual! Good job! I shouldn't admit that ten minutes early is ten minutes after my first of three alarms goes off. It's still an accomplishment!
First disappointment of the day: Even though I got up ten minutes early, I was only ready five minutes early.
But five minutes is five minutes! It's amazing how much you can achieve in five minutes.
First new routine: Taking my vitamins before I leave. The concern here is that the half a glass of water I consume with the vitamins will result in an uncomfortable need to urinate during the as-yet unknown duration of my morning ride to work. But I take a chance and drink the water. Update: All went well in that department.
Second new routine: Exercising during the wait for my ride to arrive. I have tried various ways to make good use of the time that Metro Access keeps me waiting during their frustrating thirty minute window. Journaling hasn't worked. I can't get on the computer because I have to be looking out the window. Checking Facebook is mindless enough, but that's why I want to find a more productive activity. Exercising might be the solution. It's something I can do while still obsessively watching the parking lot. Being ready five minutes early doesn't feel like an accomplishment when you end up standing at the window for sometimes as long as thirty minutes, or more. I only did three lunges on each leg, one leg lift on each side for ten reps, and ten toe lifts. Didn't want to overdue on the first morning. I can do more later.
Second accomplishment of the morning: I was able to make good use of the hour-long ride by reading in the car. Thankfully the headache and nausea that often accompany such an endeavor decided to stay at bay this morning. I could have listened to my audio book, which would have minimized the chance for illness. But I wasn't in the mood for hearing about the search for the bodies of the Romanov Imperialist family.
Second disappointment of the morning: While my inner ear symptoms didn't impede me, the flaming sunrise did, but luckily only at times. I managed to get to page 34 of The Fundamentals of Caregiving that I'm reading on the Nook app on my phone. That would be even more of a cause for celebration if I knew what page I started on when I entered the vehicle, but hey, I'll take it. And hopefully I managed to close my eyes often enough that I'm not any closer to cataracts than I was before I stubbornly refused to wear my non-prescription sunglasses.
So I arrived at work feeling at least somewhat accomplished: I read, I exercised, I took my vitamins, I got a head start on my daily water consumption without a bathroom emergency.
Success!
librarianintx
Wednesday, February 01, 2017
Muslim Day at the Capitol in Austin
There is so much negativity in the news, with Trump's immigration ban, Supreme Court pick, and horrible nominees for Cabinet positions. So here is something to smile about, to feel good about, to rejoice in. Two years ago the police had to be called in because of so many people protesting the biennial Muslim Day at the Capitol.
This year, approximately 1000 people turned out - not to protest - but to form a human chain of protection around the Muslim people who came to the Capitol to meet with legislators about the issues that matter to them. I wasn't able to be there, but here are some pictures from the event.
I heard that there was one lone protester this year. One protester, and about 1000 supporters and allies.
You done us proud again, Austin.
librarianintx
This year, approximately 1000 people turned out - not to protest - but to form a human chain of protection around the Muslim people who came to the Capitol to meet with legislators about the issues that matter to them. I wasn't able to be there, but here are some pictures from the event.
I heard that there was one lone protester this year. One protester, and about 1000 supporters and allies.
You done us proud again, Austin.
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