Friday, September 2, 2011
Quick Cuppajoe Episode 1a: Thanks!
This is the first half of my first Audioboo-cast!
Take a listen and comment if you care or enjoyed!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
SYTYCD - Final 4
Kenny Ortega!
Katie Holmes!
The Final 4 fantastic dancers!
Let's see how they rocked it!
Marko and Melanie - Disco
Wow...they wait until this week to goof up. This is the first time I've seen a crack in the skills of these two. The lifts were almost telegraphed and labored. Not a bad job, per se, but they have done much better.
Sasha and Mark - Contemporary
Okay...let me get this out of the way, first. Mark is gorgeous. Something about him is more...sexy now. The routine wasn't as dynamic as we have seen from Sonya, but it was full of great moments for her. Was it my favorite of hers? Not by a longshot. Still, it was solid.
Tadd and Joshua - Hip Hop
Fun routine. Interesting to watch the two competing styles of hip hop side by side. Tadd is a smooth, slick hip hop dancer. Hard hitting and energetic, but with a slick as ice grace. Josh is much stronger and more animal in his style. Side by side, it was almost jarring, but it worked.
Melanie and Robert - Contemporary
Beautiful, beautiful work. This is kinda where the show begins. Emotionally riveting and such lovely pictures painted.
Sasha and Markova - Broadway
Aside from the awkward "Asian waiter" imagery, this was a fun routine. Sadly, most Broadway routines tend to be B O R I N G with a capital B, but it made me smile, so hopefully it isn't a forgotten routine for both of them.
Sasha and Tadd - Cha Cha
Felt kinda awkward. Lots of missed hand connections, weird positions. Ugh! Feel so bad for them.
Marko and Lauren - Contemporary
Another challenger emerges! Marko has been so strong this season and the beauty of this routine is that unlike other pieces tonight, it showcased his abilities.
Gorgeous.
Tadd and Melanie - Broadway
Gotta love a routine where Tadd is near naked! Both acted well, both danced well! Fun and one of the rare Broadway numbers that kept my interest from beginning to end.
Melanie and Sasha - Contemporary
Lovely. Again, where the choreography is amazing, the dancers rise to it and shine. There wasn't an obvious star in this piece. They were both amazing.
Marko and Tadd - Stepping
Wow...Katie has been taken over by aliens.
The routine was ill-conceived, poorly staged, and did the boys no justice. Had they both gotten a more serious or challenging routine, they might have put up a bigger fight.
Nigel was right. A girl will win and her name is Melanie.
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Katie Holmes!
The Final 4 fantastic dancers!
Let's see how they rocked it!
Marko and Melanie - Disco
Wow...they wait until this week to goof up. This is the first time I've seen a crack in the skills of these two. The lifts were almost telegraphed and labored. Not a bad job, per se, but they have done much better.
Sasha and Mark - Contemporary
Okay...let me get this out of the way, first. Mark is gorgeous. Something about him is more...sexy now. The routine wasn't as dynamic as we have seen from Sonya, but it was full of great moments for her. Was it my favorite of hers? Not by a longshot. Still, it was solid.
Tadd and Joshua - Hip Hop
Fun routine. Interesting to watch the two competing styles of hip hop side by side. Tadd is a smooth, slick hip hop dancer. Hard hitting and energetic, but with a slick as ice grace. Josh is much stronger and more animal in his style. Side by side, it was almost jarring, but it worked.
Melanie and Robert - Contemporary
Beautiful, beautiful work. This is kinda where the show begins. Emotionally riveting and such lovely pictures painted.
Sasha and Markova - Broadway
Aside from the awkward "Asian waiter" imagery, this was a fun routine. Sadly, most Broadway routines tend to be B O R I N G with a capital B, but it made me smile, so hopefully it isn't a forgotten routine for both of them.
Sasha and Tadd - Cha Cha
Felt kinda awkward. Lots of missed hand connections, weird positions. Ugh! Feel so bad for them.
Marko and Lauren - Contemporary
Another challenger emerges! Marko has been so strong this season and the beauty of this routine is that unlike other pieces tonight, it showcased his abilities.
Gorgeous.
Tadd and Melanie - Broadway
Gotta love a routine where Tadd is near naked! Both acted well, both danced well! Fun and one of the rare Broadway numbers that kept my interest from beginning to end.
Melanie and Sasha - Contemporary
Lovely. Again, where the choreography is amazing, the dancers rise to it and shine. There wasn't an obvious star in this piece. They were both amazing.
Marko and Tadd - Stepping
Wow...Katie has been taken over by aliens.
The routine was ill-conceived, poorly staged, and did the boys no justice. Had they both gotten a more serious or challenging routine, they might have put up a bigger fight.
Nigel was right. A girl will win and her name is Melanie.
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Wednesday, August 3, 2011
SYTYCD - Top 6
Christina Applegate!
Lil C!
6 fantastic routines!
Melanie and Twitch - Hip Hop
Who knew Mel could get funky? I liked it. It didn't rise to the level of Twitch and Alex's routine, but it was very good.
Sasha and Kent - Contemporary
It was sooooooo lovely. It wasn't the best routine ever, but God knows it just took her to the finale!
Marko and Janette - Paso Doble
It was a good routine but not as flashy as others.
Tadd and Ellenore
Unique, but it might leave voters cold after all the girl's routines.
Ricky and Jamie
It was okay. I found myself looking at Jaime more than Ricky.
Caitlynn and Pasha - Samba
Sexy and fun.
Sasha and Ricky - Wacking
Interesting time to bring in a new style for the contestants. It was a good routine and fun, but it won't be memorable.
Melanie and Tadd - Broadway
Was an incredible routine and it did seem like Tadd was dancing with an all-star. And Tadd was fantastic, too.
Caitlynn and Marko - Jazz
One of her best routines EVER and Marko is just effortlessly amazing!
Wow.
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Lil C!
6 fantastic routines!
Melanie and Twitch - Hip Hop
Who knew Mel could get funky? I liked it. It didn't rise to the level of Twitch and Alex's routine, but it was very good.
Sasha and Kent - Contemporary
It was sooooooo lovely. It wasn't the best routine ever, but God knows it just took her to the finale!
Marko and Janette - Paso Doble
It was a good routine but not as flashy as others.
Tadd and Ellenore
Unique, but it might leave voters cold after all the girl's routines.
Ricky and Jamie
It was okay. I found myself looking at Jaime more than Ricky.
Caitlynn and Pasha - Samba
Sexy and fun.
Sasha and Ricky - Wacking
Interesting time to bring in a new style for the contestants. It was a good routine and fun, but it won't be memorable.
Melanie and Tadd - Broadway
Was an incredible routine and it did seem like Tadd was dancing with an all-star. And Tadd was fantastic, too.
Caitlynn and Marko - Jazz
One of her best routines EVER and Marko is just effortlessly amazing!
Wow.
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Friday, July 29, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Chicago Last Full Day
Chicago Architectural Institute tour Chicago Old and New
We woke up to 70 some odd degree temps in Chicago and decided to take a walking tour of Chicago's Old and new buildings at 11am. Apparently, we shoulda heeded the weather warnings of 90 degree temps coming in. By midtour, I was soaked. The tour, itself, was wonderful, and the docent showed us as much of the exteriors as he could without us melting. The tour examined several of the intersections of the city where the architecture of the 1800s met the architecture of today. Brilliant tour.
Dripping in Sweat
80+ degrees and miserable..
Lunch at Halo
Graceland Cemetery
After lunch, we were really to late to do much of anything with our Go Cards, so we opted to take a long walk in the Graceland Cemetery. Many notable Chicago figures are held here for eternity.
Let me say, some of the tombs are works of art in and of itself.
Shower and Nap
Whew!!! The heat'll take it right out of you!
Dinner at Lou Malnati's
I'd been waiting for some great deep dish, Chicago-style pizza and I found this restaurant near the hotel. Dee-lish-ous pizza pie, with an awesome buttercrust and homemade sausage. Yummmmm!
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We woke up to 70 some odd degree temps in Chicago and decided to take a walking tour of Chicago's Old and new buildings at 11am. Apparently, we shoulda heeded the weather warnings of 90 degree temps coming in. By midtour, I was soaked. The tour, itself, was wonderful, and the docent showed us as much of the exteriors as he could without us melting. The tour examined several of the intersections of the city where the architecture of the 1800s met the architecture of today. Brilliant tour.
Dripping in Sweat
80+ degrees and miserable..
Lunch at Halo
Graceland Cemetery
After lunch, we were really to late to do much of anything with our Go Cards, so we opted to take a long walk in the Graceland Cemetery. Many notable Chicago figures are held here for eternity.
Let me say, some of the tombs are works of art in and of itself.
Shower and Nap
Whew!!! The heat'll take it right out of you!
Dinner at Lou Malnati's
I'd been waiting for some great deep dish, Chicago-style pizza and I found this restaurant near the hotel. Dee-lish-ous pizza pie, with an awesome buttercrust and homemade sausage. Yummmmm!
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Chicago Day 5
Field Museum
Wow! The Field Museum of Natural History is gimormous! We budgeted about 3 hours inside, but that only really got us through the first wing! So much to see and so much to experience, from Sue, the first nearly complete T. Rex fossil to an exhibit on North American mammals, Whales, and the progression of African people and culture to the Americas. A-maz-ing!
Apologies to JayT and Rambleredhead for not getting to hang out with them while in Chicago, but we will be back!
Ricky and Lauren!
We finished at the museum and headed to the hotel for our evening with Ricky and LaLaLauren. We honestly didn't know if we were going to have an evening free, but Ricky made the invitation and we couldn't have been happier! We also got to meet James Leroy, who is supercute, and his equally lovely partner, Bill. I even got to be a part of "the little show!"
The Southern
Afterwards, we all trooped out to The Southern restaurant. A great little restaurant in Bucktown, it serves good ole fashioned Southern food kicked up a notch, like Shrimp on cheesy grits, Mac and cheese with Gouda and some such cheeses. For you Foursquare folks that think you rarely get anything for your check-ins, we got a beer flight (slightly larger than a shot sized glasses of the bar's draft beers as a sample)! Good times and we learned that Ricky can talk and cruise simultaneously, and Lauren's breasts can do tricks! Thanks, y'all!
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Wow! The Field Museum of Natural History is gimormous! We budgeted about 3 hours inside, but that only really got us through the first wing! So much to see and so much to experience, from Sue, the first nearly complete T. Rex fossil to an exhibit on North American mammals, Whales, and the progression of African people and culture to the Americas. A-maz-ing!
Apologies to JayT and Rambleredhead for not getting to hang out with them while in Chicago, but we will be back!
Ricky and Lauren!
We finished at the museum and headed to the hotel for our evening with Ricky and LaLaLauren. We honestly didn't know if we were going to have an evening free, but Ricky made the invitation and we couldn't have been happier! We also got to meet James Leroy, who is supercute, and his equally lovely partner, Bill. I even got to be a part of "the little show!"
The Southern
Afterwards, we all trooped out to The Southern restaurant. A great little restaurant in Bucktown, it serves good ole fashioned Southern food kicked up a notch, like Shrimp on cheesy grits, Mac and cheese with Gouda and some such cheeses. For you Foursquare folks that think you rarely get anything for your check-ins, we got a beer flight (slightly larger than a shot sized glasses of the bar's draft beers as a sample)! Good times and we learned that Ricky can talk and cruise simultaneously, and Lauren's breasts can do tricks! Thanks, y'all!
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Chicago Day 4
The Art Institute of Chicago
We started our day at the Art Institute. This museum is one of the premiere art museums in America, housing works of art from Monet, Monet, Tiffany, O' Keefe, Munch, Cezanne, Whistler, Rubin and more. Paintings sculptures, furniture, modern, pop, folk...it was a full day's worth of wandering.
Millennium Park
We left the museum and took a short walk over to Millennium Park. There was a concert going on, joggers, skateboarders, camp groups and such. We ate next to The Cloudgate or "The Bean" and just enjoyed people-watching.
The Architecture Society of Chicago
We had our Go Cards and thought we would run over to the Architecture Society's location and book one of the walking tours of the city. About a block away from the museum, this building offers tours of the city's skyscrapers, giving the history of the buildings and its construction. The store is also a fun gift shop of things Chicago, plus items with fun design.
Tours were sold out, so we planned another day.
H&M
Dallas is getting one this summer, and once I lose a little more weight and get heroin thin, the pants will fit better. (Read: cut for men without butts.)
I still found some shirts, so it wasn't a loss.
Dinner : Halo Dreams
We stumbled upon this restaurant on our way to H&M. This Asian restaurant features Thai, Chinese, and Hawaiian foods and rated very well with Yelp! so try it if you get a chance.
Chicago Public Library
We passed the library several times w/o knowing what it was, we just noticed the beautiful ironwork at the top and decided to check it out. The library is the largest public library in the United States.
Barnes and Noble
Across the street, we shopped at onevof the college's Barnes & Noble locations for books and magazines. (Really, we stopped to pee, but apparently they don't like public restrooms in the city.)
Dunkin Donuts
Chicago loves Dunkin Donuts like the rest of the world loves Starbucks. One on just about every corner and e'rrybody comes in to special order a biilion. I was on a mission to either try the Captain America one or get my old standby, French Delight.
Zzzzz
Um...by that time, we were pretty wiped, so sleep came easily. Like, REALLY easily.
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We started our day at the Art Institute. This museum is one of the premiere art museums in America, housing works of art from Monet, Monet, Tiffany, O' Keefe, Munch, Cezanne, Whistler, Rubin and more. Paintings sculptures, furniture, modern, pop, folk...it was a full day's worth of wandering.
Millennium Park
We left the museum and took a short walk over to Millennium Park. There was a concert going on, joggers, skateboarders, camp groups and such. We ate next to The Cloudgate or "The Bean" and just enjoyed people-watching.
The Architecture Society of Chicago
We had our Go Cards and thought we would run over to the Architecture Society's location and book one of the walking tours of the city. About a block away from the museum, this building offers tours of the city's skyscrapers, giving the history of the buildings and its construction. The store is also a fun gift shop of things Chicago, plus items with fun design.
Tours were sold out, so we planned another day.
H&M
Dallas is getting one this summer, and once I lose a little more weight and get heroin thin, the pants will fit better. (Read: cut for men without butts.)
I still found some shirts, so it wasn't a loss.
Dinner : Halo Dreams
We stumbled upon this restaurant on our way to H&M. This Asian restaurant features Thai, Chinese, and Hawaiian foods and rated very well with Yelp! so try it if you get a chance.
Chicago Public Library
We passed the library several times w/o knowing what it was, we just noticed the beautiful ironwork at the top and decided to check it out. The library is the largest public library in the United States.
Barnes and Noble
Across the street, we shopped at onevof the college's Barnes & Noble locations for books and magazines. (Really, we stopped to pee, but apparently they don't like public restrooms in the city.)
Dunkin Donuts
Chicago loves Dunkin Donuts like the rest of the world loves Starbucks. One on just about every corner and e'rrybody comes in to special order a biilion. I was on a mission to either try the Captain America one or get my old standby, French Delight.
Zzzzz
Um...by that time, we were pretty wiped, so sleep came easily. Like, REALLY easily.
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Friday, July 15, 2011
Chicago Day 3: The Swarthy Edition
After a late wakeup, we decided to skip the Architectural Walking Tour and head straight to Adler Planetarium. The planetarium sits on the far end of Museum Park, but we decided since the weather was nice, we would walk it anyway. Well, the nice, cloud-covered, breezy morning we begin with quickly turned into a beautiful, bright, sunny day. Not hot by Dallas standards, but then again, we commit to the heat only long enough to go from building to car A/C and back again. These folks jog in it and stuff. Crazy.
By the time I dried off, we'd explored more than half of the planetarium.
When we finished, we decided we didn't want to short-shrift the Field Museum, so instead we headed to Navy Pier for our 2nd cruise of the coastline. We arrived a little early, boarded the upper deck, then waited...and waited...and waited, while broiling in the afternoon sun. (Mental note: pack handkerchiefs for dabbing one's brow in the summer.) The cruise took off and gave us a gentle breeze and 30 minutes of Chicago history. I cooled off enough to get a 2nd wind, so off we went to Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). Our passes helped us cruise by the line to the elevator and the limited wait was filled with videos and trivia about the building. I loved this aspect of the pseudo tour because you're never idly bored in line because you have plenty information and videos to draw your attention. We took lots of pictures at the top and even stepped out on the glass balconies of the Skydeck (mildly scary when you think about the drop). We hit the giftshop next, then made one last stop of the day at the Macy's on State St.. Beautifully laid out and decorated,
this store is truly a sight to behold (and they had a SALE!!!)
By now, it was 8pm and hunger had set in, so we walked along State St., until we found a diner, where the food was hot and the price was right. Worn out from the day, we found the hotel and after showers, kicked back so we could be fresh for Saturday travel!
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By the time I dried off, we'd explored more than half of the planetarium.
When we finished, we decided we didn't want to short-shrift the Field Museum, so instead we headed to Navy Pier for our 2nd cruise of the coastline. We arrived a little early, boarded the upper deck, then waited...and waited...and waited, while broiling in the afternoon sun. (Mental note: pack handkerchiefs for dabbing one's brow in the summer.) The cruise took off and gave us a gentle breeze and 30 minutes of Chicago history. I cooled off enough to get a 2nd wind, so off we went to Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). Our passes helped us cruise by the line to the elevator and the limited wait was filled with videos and trivia about the building. I loved this aspect of the pseudo tour because you're never idly bored in line because you have plenty information and videos to draw your attention. We took lots of pictures at the top and even stepped out on the glass balconies of the Skydeck (mildly scary when you think about the drop). We hit the giftshop next, then made one last stop of the day at the Macy's on State St.. Beautifully laid out and decorated,
this store is truly a sight to behold (and they had a SALE!!!)
By now, it was 8pm and hunger had set in, so we walked along State St., until we found a diner, where the food was hot and the price was right. Worn out from the day, we found the hotel and after showers, kicked back so we could be fresh for Saturday travel!
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Thursday, July 14, 2011
Chicago Day 2
Started our day with the Chicago Food Tour, once we figured out which way we needed to go on the Red Line.
Nicole was our tour guide on our walk and she was perky for 11.
Stop 1: the Ashkenaz Deli for a delicious pastrami Reuben sammich!
Stop 2: Tea Gschwender for Cranberry Mango green tea. I'm not usually a tea drinker, but it was delicious and refreshing!
Stop 3: The Spice House for a delicious sampling of spices and rubs.
Stop 4: Old Town Oil
Delicious EVOO and balsamic vinegars!
Stop 5: The Fudge Pot
Chocolate Shan Gri La!
We got to sample their chocolate toffee. Smooth chocolate, crunchy toffee, amazing flavor!
Stop 6: Delightful Pastries
Here we had pirogees and kolaches. Yummy food from a bakery dedicated to the traditional foods of Poland.
Stop 7: Bacino's Italian for a Stuffed Spinach Pizza. It was good. I couldn't rave because I generally don't love or eat spinach, but the flavor of the sauce and crust made up for it.
After our food tour, we got directions to the Nature Museum near the Lincoln Park Zoo.
It's a beautiful, beautiful building, from an architectural standpoint, that houses a wonderful butterfly exhibit, a nature park, and exhibits on the wildlife native to the area. The Butterfly museum is a must-see.
From there, we took a walk along the beach along Lakeshore drive,
envying all the fit, gorgeous joggers who passed by us.
The day was long, so we worked our way back "home"ward and picked up some tea at the place on the tour and found a train back to the hotel. Dinner was in the hotel's Thai restaurant. Then back upstairs to read and let our legs recover from the day.
Tomorrow: More architecture and museums!
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Nicole was our tour guide on our walk and she was perky for 11.
Stop 1: the Ashkenaz Deli for a delicious pastrami Reuben sammich!
Stop 2: Tea Gschwender for Cranberry Mango green tea. I'm not usually a tea drinker, but it was delicious and refreshing!
Stop 3: The Spice House for a delicious sampling of spices and rubs.
Stop 4: Old Town Oil
Delicious EVOO and balsamic vinegars!
Stop 5: The Fudge Pot
Chocolate Shan Gri La!
We got to sample their chocolate toffee. Smooth chocolate, crunchy toffee, amazing flavor!
Stop 6: Delightful Pastries
Here we had pirogees and kolaches. Yummy food from a bakery dedicated to the traditional foods of Poland.
Stop 7: Bacino's Italian for a Stuffed Spinach Pizza. It was good. I couldn't rave because I generally don't love or eat spinach, but the flavor of the sauce and crust made up for it.
After our food tour, we got directions to the Nature Museum near the Lincoln Park Zoo.
It's a beautiful, beautiful building, from an architectural standpoint, that houses a wonderful butterfly exhibit, a nature park, and exhibits on the wildlife native to the area. The Butterfly museum is a must-see.
From there, we took a walk along the beach along Lakeshore drive,
envying all the fit, gorgeous joggers who passed by us.
The day was long, so we worked our way back "home"ward and picked up some tea at the place on the tour and found a train back to the hotel. Dinner was in the hotel's Thai restaurant. Then back upstairs to read and let our legs recover from the day.
Tomorrow: More architecture and museums!
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Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Chicago Day 1
We began our day by getting up, let me say, Jack getting up all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at 5 o'dark in the morning. He then gave me the opportunity to sleep in until about seven o'clock in the morning. We went downstairs to have breakfast, and our rule is usually not to eat chain restaurant food on vacation, so we ate at the hotel diner.
After breakfast we walked to the Navy Pier from the hotel. We had to cross Grant Park
and about a mile and a half to 2 miles later we made it to the Architectural Shore Cruise. (Side note: we also had our first Chicago podcaster moment thanks to Rob Lindley and the phrase "doinger shorts." One of the little boys assisting on the cruise was freeballing in a pair as the ship sailed up to land. Later, we would notice his "runway walk" on the deck and figured we'd found a true seaman.) The Shore cruise is a fantastic way to see all of the wonderful building of Chicago, with an unobstructed view from the water. The cruise took us up the river and all the way to the Sears Tower and back to the Navy Pier. Once we were back at the pier, apparently all of the parents and children were awake and we had entered our own private hell of tour groups. Lots of lots of children's tour groups. Still the Navy pier is a fun and interesting place to walk around. We found ourselves in the museum of stained glass and it was beautiful.
After the stained-glass museum we worked our way up to the midway where we rode the Ferris wheel and the swings.
We took a ride on the water taxi from the Navy pier across to the museum park where we went to the Shedd aquarium. The Shedd aquarium is one of the best aquariums we've ever been to, full of wonderful experiences and it's probably one of the best places in Chicago to take children.
There are many picture taking opportunities within the Shedd aquarium, from the shark tank to the coral reefs to the many special exhibits within. Today, we went to the Jellies exhibit, a fascinating look at the lives of jellyfish.
About three hours later, we left the Shedd aquarium and made our way back to the hotel...worn out and really ready to go to bed. After a quick shower and nap, we left the hotel and made our way to the Tamarind restaurant. Some good Thai food later, and we came back to our room to crawl into bed and plan another day.
Tomorrow: The Chicago Food Tour!
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After breakfast we walked to the Navy Pier from the hotel. We had to cross Grant Park
and about a mile and a half to 2 miles later we made it to the Architectural Shore Cruise. (Side note: we also had our first Chicago podcaster moment thanks to Rob Lindley and the phrase "doinger shorts." One of the little boys assisting on the cruise was freeballing in a pair as the ship sailed up to land. Later, we would notice his "runway walk" on the deck and figured we'd found a true seaman.) The Shore cruise is a fantastic way to see all of the wonderful building of Chicago, with an unobstructed view from the water. The cruise took us up the river and all the way to the Sears Tower and back to the Navy Pier. Once we were back at the pier, apparently all of the parents and children were awake and we had entered our own private hell of tour groups. Lots of lots of children's tour groups. Still the Navy pier is a fun and interesting place to walk around. We found ourselves in the museum of stained glass and it was beautiful.
After the stained-glass museum we worked our way up to the midway where we rode the Ferris wheel and the swings.
We took a ride on the water taxi from the Navy pier across to the museum park where we went to the Shedd aquarium. The Shedd aquarium is one of the best aquariums we've ever been to, full of wonderful experiences and it's probably one of the best places in Chicago to take children.
There are many picture taking opportunities within the Shedd aquarium, from the shark tank to the coral reefs to the many special exhibits within. Today, we went to the Jellies exhibit, a fascinating look at the lives of jellyfish.
About three hours later, we left the Shedd aquarium and made our way back to the hotel...worn out and really ready to go to bed. After a quick shower and nap, we left the hotel and made our way to the Tamarind restaurant. Some good Thai food later, and we came back to our room to crawl into bed and plan another day.
Tomorrow: The Chicago Food Tour!
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Wednesday, July 6, 2011
SYTYCD Top 14
Carmen Electra!
Travis Wall!
Let's go!
Guy group - Contemporary
Interesting, yet not dynamic.
Melanie and Marko - Jazz
Choreographed to "Americano," the dance was strong and entertaining, still it wasn't maybe as strong as the song.
And with the "he didn't inhale" comment, I love Cat Deeley a bit more.
Sasha and Alexander - Hip hop
Uhhhh...no. Not as sharp as it needed to be. It was kinda hip hop lite.
Jordan and Thadd - Waltz
They did a good job! Jack didn't love it or believe the connection, but I thought it was nice and believable.
Clarice and Jess - Contemporary
Jack "A lot of the dancers don't seem to dance between the steps."
I liked it and so far it's my favorite of the night. Needed to be tighter with the music, but otherwise it was great.
Ashley and Chris - Salsa
It was cute, the lifts were great, but there were moments of awkwardness.
Ryan and Ricky - Jazz
Jack "I started to fall asleep."
I thought it was oddly enjoyable.
The choreographers are lacking tonight.
Caitlynn and Mitchell - Contemporary
OMG!!!! The routine of the night! Dynamic! Powerful! Emotional! It was everything!!!!
Girls Routine
The girls killed it!
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Travis Wall!
Let's go!
Guy group - Contemporary
Interesting, yet not dynamic.
Melanie and Marko - Jazz
Choreographed to "Americano," the dance was strong and entertaining, still it wasn't maybe as strong as the song.
And with the "he didn't inhale" comment, I love Cat Deeley a bit more.
Sasha and Alexander - Hip hop
Uhhhh...no. Not as sharp as it needed to be. It was kinda hip hop lite.
Jordan and Thadd - Waltz
They did a good job! Jack didn't love it or believe the connection, but I thought it was nice and believable.
Clarice and Jess - Contemporary
Jack "A lot of the dancers don't seem to dance between the steps."
I liked it and so far it's my favorite of the night. Needed to be tighter with the music, but otherwise it was great.
Ashley and Chris - Salsa
It was cute, the lifts were great, but there were moments of awkwardness.
Ryan and Ricky - Jazz
Jack "I started to fall asleep."
I thought it was oddly enjoyable.
The choreographers are lacking tonight.
Caitlynn and Mitchell - Contemporary
OMG!!!! The routine of the night! Dynamic! Powerful! Emotional! It was everything!!!!
Girls Routine
The girls killed it!
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Friday, July 1, 2011
Mark Halipern Calls The President a Dick
Douchebag of the year goes to...
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| Mark Halperin Calls Obama a Dick | ||||
| ||||
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
The Voice - The Final 4
Javier - Piece By Piece
Loved it! Suited his voice and it seemed like a perfect song for Him
Dia and Blake - Won't Back Down
Fun performance! Dia's voice is unique and she made some interesting choices in the song.
Vicci - Afraid to Sleep
I liked the song, but I don't think the song went as big as the song promised. That's the sad thing because I had high hopes for Vicci's original song.
Beverly and Christina - Beautiful
Oh. Em. Gee.
Not just a beautiful rendition, but beautifully done. The only issue...singing it WITH Christina brings up the automatic comparison to the amazing voice of Christina, and it naturally paled.
Dia - Inventing Shadows
Jack "I liked it. It sat really well in her voice."
Me "She has a great voice and sound, but the song was sleepy to me."
Javier and Adam - Man in the Mirror
Wow! The first duet of the night where the performer shined at least as brightly as the coach. They sounded great together and it sat well in his voice.
Beverly - Lovesick
She always owns the stage, always gives great show. I didn't love the song. I WANTED to love it, but it wasn't catchy or
Vicci and Cee-Lo - Love Is a Battlefield
I couldn't stop smiling! Vicci is the only person onstage that gives Beverly a run for her money as far as performance is concerned. Great performance and great sound.
Rarely is there a show with such a tough call.
Based on duets
Jack - Man in the Mirror or Beautiful
Me - Man in the Mirror or Love is a Battlefield
Based on Singles
Jack - Inventing Shadows
Me - Piece By Piece
Loved it! Suited his voice and it seemed like a perfect song for Him
Dia and Blake - Won't Back Down
Fun performance! Dia's voice is unique and she made some interesting choices in the song.
Vicci - Afraid to Sleep
I liked the song, but I don't think the song went as big as the song promised. That's the sad thing because I had high hopes for Vicci's original song.
Beverly and Christina - Beautiful
Oh. Em. Gee.
Not just a beautiful rendition, but beautifully done. The only issue...singing it WITH Christina brings up the automatic comparison to the amazing voice of Christina, and it naturally paled.
Dia - Inventing Shadows
Jack "I liked it. It sat really well in her voice."
Me "She has a great voice and sound, but the song was sleepy to me."
Javier and Adam - Man in the Mirror
Wow! The first duet of the night where the performer shined at least as brightly as the coach. They sounded great together and it sat well in his voice.
Beverly - Lovesick
She always owns the stage, always gives great show. I didn't love the song. I WANTED to love it, but it wasn't catchy or
Vicci and Cee-Lo - Love Is a Battlefield
I couldn't stop smiling! Vicci is the only person onstage that gives Beverly a run for her money as far as performance is concerned. Great performance and great sound.
Rarely is there a show with such a tough call.
Based on duets
Jack - Man in the Mirror or Beautiful
Me - Man in the Mirror or Love is a Battlefield
Based on Singles
Jack - Inventing Shadows
Me - Piece By Piece
Thursday, June 23, 2011
SYTYCD - Top 20 Redux
No one got the boot, so they all got to meet guest judge Debbie Reynolds!
Ryan and Ricky - Jazz
Great dance, full of sex and passion. Only regret, the fact the two were smiley all the way throughout.
Caitlynn and Mitchell - Contemporary
Dancing to Adele, they did a beautiful job with the story. Dramatic and beautifully danced.
Missy and Wadi - Cha Cha
Fifty percent awesome. Missy looked really good. Wadi...not so much. No hip action, no rhythm, just awkward.
Iveta and Nick - Bollywood
Jack - Looked like they just learned it.
Me - I give them so much credit for getting thru the routine with power and energy.
Miranda and Robert - Hip hop
Jack - I didn't like it AT ALL!
Me - I thought they did a fabulous job with such intricate choreography.
Clarice and Jess - Contemporary
Lovely. Simply lovely.
Jordan and Tadd - Viennese Waltz
I really kinda love Jordan. And Tadd is really kinda spectacular. The pair are for me the ones to beat.
Melanie and Marko - Jazz
Really a good routine.
Sasha and Alexander - Hip hop
Another NappyTabs routine! So well executed, so strong!
Ashley and Chris - First hot tamale train of the season! The routine was fun and kinda challenging. They did a good job with it.
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Ryan and Ricky - Jazz
Great dance, full of sex and passion. Only regret, the fact the two were smiley all the way throughout.
Caitlynn and Mitchell - Contemporary
Dancing to Adele, they did a beautiful job with the story. Dramatic and beautifully danced.
Missy and Wadi - Cha Cha
Fifty percent awesome. Missy looked really good. Wadi...not so much. No hip action, no rhythm, just awkward.
Iveta and Nick - Bollywood
Jack - Looked like they just learned it.
Me - I give them so much credit for getting thru the routine with power and energy.
Miranda and Robert - Hip hop
Jack - I didn't like it AT ALL!
Me - I thought they did a fabulous job with such intricate choreography.
Clarice and Jess - Contemporary
Lovely. Simply lovely.
Jordan and Tadd - Viennese Waltz
I really kinda love Jordan. And Tadd is really kinda spectacular. The pair are for me the ones to beat.
Melanie and Marko - Jazz
Really a good routine.
Sasha and Alexander - Hip hop
Another NappyTabs routine! So well executed, so strong!
Ashley and Chris - First hot tamale train of the season! The routine was fun and kinda challenging. They did a good job with it.
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Wednesday, June 15, 2011
SYTYCD: Top 20!
First competition week with the contestants: Judges this week Nigel, Mary, and Megan Mullaly! Let's go!
Jordan and Tadd: African-Jazz
Fun routine and well-choreographed. No lack of energy.
Sasha and Alexander: Contemporary
Such a good job with one of Travis' routines. Raw, powerful, and so impactful.
Both are such wonderful contemporary dancers, that it was almost effortless.
Clarice and Jess: Broadway
Danced well, but boring for me. Raves from the judges and the choreographer.
Ryan and Ricky: Lyrical Hip-Hop
Wow! Fun, intricate routine from Christopher Scott. It was really fun and the dancers did a great job with the routine.
Caitlynn and Mitchell: Jazz
Sonya's choreography is usually amazing, but this wasn't my favorite. Robert filled in for the injured Mitchell and did a fantastic job.
Miranda and Robert: Latin
Wow! Fun routine. Don't know if the technique was 100%, but it was certainly fun. But it was just fun!
Missy and Wadi: Jazz
Wow.
Wow.
Wow. Athletic, dynamic, rhythmic. Performance of the night so far!
Melanie and Marko: Contemporary
Sometimes the work of Travis Wall is so amazing you forget that he didn't win! This is one of those times. The dancers did an incredible job with the piece and the only critique is at times there are moments when Marko lost his balance.
Ashley and Chris: Hip Hop
Good, but did not live up to the routines of earlier in the night.
Iveta and Nick: Ballroom
I think this is officially the end of the Curse of Quickstep! Great routine, great footwork, and entertaining!
Top 2:
Missy and Wadi
and
Melanie and Marko
Least effective:
Clarice and Jess
and
Ashley and Chris
Probably going home:
Ashley and Mitchell
Jordan and Tadd: African-Jazz
Fun routine and well-choreographed. No lack of energy.
Sasha and Alexander: Contemporary
Such a good job with one of Travis' routines. Raw, powerful, and so impactful.
Both are such wonderful contemporary dancers, that it was almost effortless.
Clarice and Jess: Broadway
Danced well, but boring for me. Raves from the judges and the choreographer.
Ryan and Ricky: Lyrical Hip-Hop
Wow! Fun, intricate routine from Christopher Scott. It was really fun and the dancers did a great job with the routine.
Caitlynn and Mitchell: Jazz
Sonya's choreography is usually amazing, but this wasn't my favorite. Robert filled in for the injured Mitchell and did a fantastic job.
Miranda and Robert: Latin
Wow! Fun routine. Don't know if the technique was 100%, but it was certainly fun. But it was just fun!
Missy and Wadi: Jazz
Wow.
Wow.
Wow. Athletic, dynamic, rhythmic. Performance of the night so far!
Melanie and Marko: Contemporary
Sometimes the work of Travis Wall is so amazing you forget that he didn't win! This is one of those times. The dancers did an incredible job with the piece and the only critique is at times there are moments when Marko lost his balance.
Ashley and Chris: Hip Hop
Good, but did not live up to the routines of earlier in the night.
Iveta and Nick: Ballroom
I think this is officially the end of the Curse of Quickstep! Great routine, great footwork, and entertaining!
Top 2:
Missy and Wadi
and
Melanie and Marko
Least effective:
Clarice and Jess
and
Ashley and Chris
Probably going home:
Ashley and Mitchell
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Rise of the Planet of the Apes Trailer 2011 HD
Saw this trailer this week and this kinda freaked me out.
Just sayin'.
I demand this in every theater this summer!
After watching Xmen: First Class this weekend, I NEED this in every movie. We sat down and after the theater filled, this dude rolled in with his homey and sat in the vacant seat between me and another guy. Party foul #1. Then in the middle of the movie, this ass decides to not only answer his phone, but carry on this hushed CONVERSATION during the movie. So, I have no sympathy for this kinda shit.
The Alamo Theater in Austin created this No Texting/NO Phone Calls PSA after warning a patron twice to stop texting. Please...enjoy!
Here's the rest of the story:
http://gawker.com/5809262/movie-theater-turns-customers-angry-voicemail-into-anti+texting-psa
The Alamo Theater in Austin created this No Texting/NO Phone Calls PSA after warning a patron twice to stop texting. Please...enjoy!
Here's the rest of the story:
http://gawker.com/5809262/movie-theater-turns-customers-angry-voicemail-into-anti+texting-psa
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
American Idol Finale - Scotty vs. Lauren
3 Rounds, no filler. One winner. Let's go!
Favorite Songs of the Season
Scotty - "Gone"
Good relaxed performance. As good as anything he's done.
Lauren - "Flat On the Floor"
Restrained, but good.
Idols' Idols
Scotty - "Check Yes or No" from George Strait
Wow...this is the most boring Idols finale ever.
Lauren - "Sure Felt Right" from Carrie Underwood
Good, but again, just not a moment.
1st Single
Scotty - "I Love You This Big"
The song was good, but it seemed a bit safe. Not that it wasn't sung well, but the buildup didn't happen like I hoped.
Lauren - "Like My Mother Does"
Wow...just when you think she might not have one this season, she had her moment. She nailed it. Just when she needed it.
Round 1
Scotty, by a hair.
Round 2
Lauren, solidly.
Round 3
Lauren, solidly.
If the girl vote doesn't kill her chances, Lauren will be your next American Idol.
Favorite Songs of the Season
Scotty - "Gone"
Good relaxed performance. As good as anything he's done.
Lauren - "Flat On the Floor"
Restrained, but good.
Idols' Idols
Scotty - "Check Yes or No" from George Strait
Wow...this is the most boring Idols finale ever.
Lauren - "Sure Felt Right" from Carrie Underwood
Good, but again, just not a moment.
1st Single
Scotty - "I Love You This Big"
The song was good, but it seemed a bit safe. Not that it wasn't sung well, but the buildup didn't happen like I hoped.
Lauren - "Like My Mother Does"
Wow...just when you think she might not have one this season, she had her moment. She nailed it. Just when she needed it.
Round 1
Scotty, by a hair.
Round 2
Lauren, solidly.
Round 3
Lauren, solidly.
If the girl vote doesn't kill her chances, Lauren will be your next American Idol.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Teen Idol Dreams Come True
When I was a kid, I would come home from school and do my homework in front of the TV while my Mom watched her "stories." She was pretty faithful to her CBS soaps and would do housework to Young and the Restless, Search for Tomorrow, As The World Turns, and Guiding Light. Before long, I too was hooked on the one show I would catch the tail end of. In the early 80s, supercouples were just coming into being and GL had its own with Kelly and Morgan. This is John Wesley Shipp, the actor who played Kelly Nelson.
At least this is how he looked when he was at Laurel Falls with Morgan. I didn't know I was gay then. Didn't know what the word meant. I DID know, I LIVED for the days when he was in his Speedos at Laurel Falls and not in his doctor's scrubs.
Today, hubby, our friend Kathy, and I went to dinner and just happened to run into him and his costar, Amanda Pays at a tiny little out of the way restaurant. He was in town for Dallas Comic Con and having dinner with friends and I managed to catch sight of him on the way to the restroom. When he returned, Kathy stopped him and he was absolutely wonderful. Gracious and kind, he took the time just to chat with us and sign autographs. Here is what he looks like today:
(sans beard...I just liked the shot!)
He has certainly aged well, and made a man old enough to be past them, feel butterflies in his stomach at just meeting him.
Thanks for being a wonderful example of not only how to treat fans, but just being a great guy.
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At least this is how he looked when he was at Laurel Falls with Morgan. I didn't know I was gay then. Didn't know what the word meant. I DID know, I LIVED for the days when he was in his Speedos at Laurel Falls and not in his doctor's scrubs.
Today, hubby, our friend Kathy, and I went to dinner and just happened to run into him and his costar, Amanda Pays at a tiny little out of the way restaurant. He was in town for Dallas Comic Con and having dinner with friends and I managed to catch sight of him on the way to the restroom. When he returned, Kathy stopped him and he was absolutely wonderful. Gracious and kind, he took the time just to chat with us and sign autographs. Here is what he looks like today:
(sans beard...I just liked the shot!)
He has certainly aged well, and made a man old enough to be past them, feel butterflies in his stomach at just meeting him.
Thanks for being a wonderful example of not only how to treat fans, but just being a great guy.
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Wednesday, May 18, 2011
American Idol Top 3 - SemiFinals/Homecoming
The Idols are down to the Top 3: Lauren Alaina, the country powerhouse in-waiting, Scotty McCreery, the old soul country crooner in the 17 year old body, and Haley Reinhart, our blue-eyed soul/blues wailer. They all got a chance to visit their hometowns this week and received the heroes' welcome and get a taste of home before two square off next week in the finale.
This week is three songs: Artist choice, Jimmy Iovine's choice, and Judges' choice. Let's see what they can do...
Oh...and they got coached by Beyonce'
Scotty - "Amazed"
Effortless. He has a very natural flow, and his performance quality has improved. Very nice.
Lauren - "Wild One"
Wow...when she is confident, she is a belter! Go girl! Full of power, control, and confidence.
Haley - "What Is and What Should Never Be"
Fun rock performance. Indulgent as hell, but she went for it! She had a small slip, but didn't miss a beat!
Round 1: Haley, just for the fearlessness.
Jimmy Iovine's Picks
Scotty - "Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not?"
Again, another solid performance. He is a natural performer.
Lauren - "If I Die Young"
Again, another rock solid performance. I think she really is starting to believe in herself and it shows such confidence.
Haley - "Rihannon"
Haley is fighting her ass off! She said they are not gonna vote me the hell off!
Round 2: Scotty
Judges' Pick
Scotty - "She Believes In Me"
The Judges raved, and i think he did a good job with a boring song.
Lauren - "I Hope You Dance"
She is killing tonight! So far, for me, she's the one to beat.
Haley - "You Oughta Know"
It had such potential, but for me it felt awkward.
Round 3: Lauren
I think Haley's going home. I think she peaked too early in the show, the last song wasn't her strongest, and sadly, I think the country music audience will band to keep their artists on the show.
This week is three songs: Artist choice, Jimmy Iovine's choice, and Judges' choice. Let's see what they can do...
Oh...and they got coached by Beyonce'
Scotty - "Amazed"
Effortless. He has a very natural flow, and his performance quality has improved. Very nice.
Lauren - "Wild One"
Wow...when she is confident, she is a belter! Go girl! Full of power, control, and confidence.
Haley - "What Is and What Should Never Be"
Fun rock performance. Indulgent as hell, but she went for it! She had a small slip, but didn't miss a beat!
Round 1: Haley, just for the fearlessness.
Jimmy Iovine's Picks
Scotty - "Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not?"
Again, another solid performance. He is a natural performer.
Lauren - "If I Die Young"
Again, another rock solid performance. I think she really is starting to believe in herself and it shows such confidence.
Haley - "Rihannon"
Haley is fighting her ass off! She said they are not gonna vote me the hell off!
Round 2: Scotty
Judges' Pick
Scotty - "She Believes In Me"
The Judges raved, and i think he did a good job with a boring song.
Lauren - "I Hope You Dance"
She is killing tonight! So far, for me, she's the one to beat.
Haley - "You Oughta Know"
It had such potential, but for me it felt awkward.
Round 3: Lauren
I think Haley's going home. I think she peaked too early in the show, the last song wasn't her strongest, and sadly, I think the country music audience will band to keep their artists on the show.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Idol Top 4
Songs that Inspire and the Songbook of Lieber and Stoller + Gaga!!!!
Inspiration
James - "Don't Stop Believin'"
He breezed through it kinda effortlessly. He sounded great!
Haley - "Earth Song"
The voice was there, the build-up wasn't. Felt truncated. Randy said it sounded screamy. I just think it wasn't a great song choice.
Scotty - "Where Were You When the World Stopped Turnin'"
Scotty never ceases to amaze. The difference between this performance and Haley's was it was the perfect song choice and the perfect performance.
Lauren - "Do It Anyway"
Fantastic vocal! Fantastic choice! If she ever truly believes in herself, she could win it.
Lieber/Stoller (Coached by Gaga)
Haley - "I Who Have Nothing"
Way to come back swinging!
She had a moment. She delivered the song beautifully!
Scotty - "Young Blood"
Scotty's facial expressions when he sings a fun song are kinda scary. Vocally was great. Side note: wonder how many votes he picked up/cast off with his attitude with Lady Gaga.
Lauren - "Trouble"
She embraced the character and I appreciated it. Vocal throwaway, but she took Gaga's notes and it worked.
James - "Love Potion #9"
He is amazing to watch! He is so comfortable up on the stage and such a vocal powerhouse, he's the one to beat!
Top 2
James and Lauren
Bottom 2
Scotty and Haley
No one truly failed. Haley had one less effective song, but her 2nd song was a standout. If there was any justice, Scotty would go. He'll have a country music career. What will probably happen: Haley's gone.
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Inspiration
James - "Don't Stop Believin'"
He breezed through it kinda effortlessly. He sounded great!
Haley - "Earth Song"
The voice was there, the build-up wasn't. Felt truncated. Randy said it sounded screamy. I just think it wasn't a great song choice.
Scotty - "Where Were You When the World Stopped Turnin'"
Scotty never ceases to amaze. The difference between this performance and Haley's was it was the perfect song choice and the perfect performance.
Lauren - "Do It Anyway"
Fantastic vocal! Fantastic choice! If she ever truly believes in herself, she could win it.
Lieber/Stoller (Coached by Gaga)
Haley - "I Who Have Nothing"
Way to come back swinging!
She had a moment. She delivered the song beautifully!
Scotty - "Young Blood"
Scotty's facial expressions when he sings a fun song are kinda scary. Vocally was great. Side note: wonder how many votes he picked up/cast off with his attitude with Lady Gaga.
Lauren - "Trouble"
She embraced the character and I appreciated it. Vocal throwaway, but she took Gaga's notes and it worked.
James - "Love Potion #9"
He is amazing to watch! He is so comfortable up on the stage and such a vocal powerhouse, he's the one to beat!
Top 2
James and Lauren
Bottom 2
Scotty and Haley
No one truly failed. Haley had one less effective song, but her 2nd song was a standout. If there was any justice, Scotty would go. He'll have a country music career. What will probably happen: Haley's gone.
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Wednesday, May 4, 2011
American Idol - Top 5 (Now and Then Night)
Sheryl Crow is the mentor of the week for the Idols.They get to sing a song from the past and a song from the last 5 years. Here we go!
Contemporary
James Durbin - "Closer to the Edge"
I was hoping for a better performance. He sounded kinda strident. He loves working the crowd, but vocally it wasn't awesome.
Jacob Lusk - "No Air"
Jacob, you are an underdog not because you look AWKWARD when you perform. Strong vocally, but visually disturbing. Oooh Boo...don't dance. You need not shake the pear-shape badonkadonk like Jordin!
*Lauren Alaina - "Flat on the Floor"
Look at what happens when you believe in yourself! Effortless and controlled.
And she seeemed to believe she could rock it out. Great job!
Scotty McCreery - "Gone"
Scotty sounded great! Even the odd ghetto swagger was working for him. Youthful, yet still like he was in control. And THANK GOD the jokes about the mic control, took.
*Haley Reinhart - "You and I"
WHAT?!? Unreleased Lady Gaga?!?
I LOVED it!!! That was wonderful! Jennifer?!? Randy?!? WHAT? THE? FUCK?
It was a great performance! And you didn't have ANY issues with the 30 Seconds to Mars BULLSHIT that James sang that was so nichey.
Oldie
James Durbin - "Without You"
Depth. A really good performance. He was an emotional wreck and it was all over his face when he sang.
Jacob Lusk - "Love Hurts"
He had me for the first 2/3rds of the song. This was the only way to totally redeem himself from "No Air" He mostly did that. Some will beat him up for the "chu'chiness" of the end.
*Lauren Alaina - "Unchained Melody"
This just pissed me off! The first 90% of this song was FLAWLESS! It was so well done and she caressed every note and did it so well that when she punked out at the end and didn't hit "the note" it hurts.
Scotty McCreery - "You Were Always on My Mind"
Not bad, not explosive. Meh. Consistent, but not an Idol moment performance.
*Haley Reinhart - "THe House of the Rising Sun"
OMFG! Haley just murdered that song! Vocally, it was OUTSTANDING!
Top 2
Haley and Lauren
Bottom 2
Jacob and vaguely, James
Jacob will prolly go home tomorrow.
Contemporary
James Durbin - "Closer to the Edge"
I was hoping for a better performance. He sounded kinda strident. He loves working the crowd, but vocally it wasn't awesome.
Jacob Lusk - "No Air"
Jacob, you are an underdog not because you look AWKWARD when you perform. Strong vocally, but visually disturbing. Oooh Boo...don't dance. You need not shake the pear-shape badonkadonk like Jordin!
*Lauren Alaina - "Flat on the Floor"
Look at what happens when you believe in yourself! Effortless and controlled.
And she seeemed to believe she could rock it out. Great job!
Scotty McCreery - "Gone"
Scotty sounded great! Even the odd ghetto swagger was working for him. Youthful, yet still like he was in control. And THANK GOD the jokes about the mic control, took.
*Haley Reinhart - "You and I"
WHAT?!? Unreleased Lady Gaga?!?
I LOVED it!!! That was wonderful! Jennifer?!? Randy?!? WHAT? THE? FUCK?
It was a great performance! And you didn't have ANY issues with the 30 Seconds to Mars BULLSHIT that James sang that was so nichey.
Oldie
James Durbin - "Without You"
Depth. A really good performance. He was an emotional wreck and it was all over his face when he sang.
Jacob Lusk - "Love Hurts"
He had me for the first 2/3rds of the song. This was the only way to totally redeem himself from "No Air" He mostly did that. Some will beat him up for the "chu'chiness" of the end.
*Lauren Alaina - "Unchained Melody"
This just pissed me off! The first 90% of this song was FLAWLESS! It was so well done and she caressed every note and did it so well that when she punked out at the end and didn't hit "the note" it hurts.
Scotty McCreery - "You Were Always on My Mind"
Not bad, not explosive. Meh. Consistent, but not an Idol moment performance.
*Haley Reinhart - "THe House of the Rising Sun"
OMFG! Haley just murdered that song! Vocally, it was OUTSTANDING!
Top 2
Haley and Lauren
Bottom 2
Jacob and vaguely, James
Jacob will prolly go home tomorrow.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Glee - Great Performances
Turning Tables
Gwyneth Paltrow is an amazing talent, and though she's not quite Adele, you can't deny she has a wonderful voice.
Gwyneth Paltrow is an amazing talent, and though she's not quite Adele, you can't deny she has a wonderful voice.
American Idol - Top 6 Songs of Carole King
The idols lost Stefano last week, but now they are focusing their talents on the music of living legend Carole King. Mentored by Babyface this week, so they have major assistance this week.
Here we go.
Jacob Lusk - "Oh No Not My Baby"
One of his better performances. Not mushmouthy, not overblown, but controlled chaos.
The only issue, her catalog is deep with familiar songs, and this wasn't it. What was up with the Boyz II Men attire this week?
Lauren Alaina - "Where You Lead"
She took the notes, she trusted her voice, and she did it!
Really good job.
Haley and Casey - "I Feel The Earth Move"
Good, but forgettable.
*Scotty McCreery - "You Got a Friend"
Best performance yet. No mic affectations, wonderful voice quality, and still in his wheelhouse.
*James Durbin - "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow"
What?!?
WHAT?!? James just rocked out to Carole King. The intro was amazing.
Lauren and Scotty - "Up on the Roof"
They sounded amazing, but they needed to connect more.
Haley Reinhart - "Beautiful"
Not a fan of the choices, but
Casey Abrams - "Hey Joe"
Not my favorite Casey performance. The growl was fine, the vocal was impeccable, but it wasn't the most memorable.
Jacob and James - "I'm Into Something Good"
Kinda fun, despite the near flashing of J. Lo's girly bits.
Safe
James, Scotty, and Lauren
In Jeopardy
Not so much: Haley
Kinda: Jacob and Casey
Casey may just have growled himself out of the competition. Ouch.
Here we go.
Jacob Lusk - "Oh No Not My Baby"
One of his better performances. Not mushmouthy, not overblown, but controlled chaos.
The only issue, her catalog is deep with familiar songs, and this wasn't it. What was up with the Boyz II Men attire this week?
Lauren Alaina - "Where You Lead"
She took the notes, she trusted her voice, and she did it!
Really good job.
Haley and Casey - "I Feel The Earth Move"
Good, but forgettable.
*Scotty McCreery - "You Got a Friend"
Best performance yet. No mic affectations, wonderful voice quality, and still in his wheelhouse.
*James Durbin - "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow"
What?!?
WHAT?!? James just rocked out to Carole King. The intro was amazing.
Lauren and Scotty - "Up on the Roof"
They sounded amazing, but they needed to connect more.
Haley Reinhart - "Beautiful"
Not a fan of the choices, but
Casey Abrams - "Hey Joe"
Not my favorite Casey performance. The growl was fine, the vocal was impeccable, but it wasn't the most memorable.
Jacob and James - "I'm Into Something Good"
Kinda fun, despite the near flashing of J. Lo's girly bits.
Safe
James, Scotty, and Lauren
In Jeopardy
Not so much: Haley
Kinda: Jacob and Casey
Casey may just have growled himself out of the competition. Ouch.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
American Idol Top 7 - 21st Century Music
We kick the show off with Pink's "So What" (and the awkward singing of Paul). Mark Ballas in the audience showing support for his girlfriend Pia.
Scotty McCreery - Swingin'
Okay...I'm SOOOO glad the group called him out on his mic handling. Good singing, but Jimmy Iovine called it...the audience can get tired of the same ole Scotty. Not a breakout performance.
*James Durbin - "Uprising"
Great theater! Great entrance! Great song choice! Great performance! It was a perfect choice for him and it made him a standout.
*Haley Reinhart - "Rolling In The Deep"
Treacherous waters!!!! Adele is becoming one of the Untouchables (Whitney, Mariah, Celine).
Haley just validated why she's still around. She just sang the eff out of that song!
Little bouncy still, but she managed to rein it in.
Jacob Lusk - "Dance With My Father"
Something was off. He was great, as usual, but it wasn't the Moment. The earpiece issue seemed to throw him, but beyond that it wasn't as broad as it shoulda been.
*Casey Abrams - "Harder to Breathe"
Casey is a MONSTER! He looks like a Hobbit. But he just gave a kick-ass rock performance! He breathed such life into a fun rock-pop song. Wow! He made the 7 second delay guy work!
Stefano Langone - "Closer"
So disappointed. That was not a singer's song. It is more a performance song, but it just didn't go where it needed to go. He's a vocal powerhouse, but that was not the best performance.
Lauren Alaina - "Born to Fly"
She sounded pretty good, but it was a throwaway song. Not really a challenge. She made it so effortless that it seemed understated.
Top 2
James and Haley (Casey, as well)
Bottom 2
Stefano and Scotty (although Jacob is on notice)
I don't think Stefano saved himself this week
Scotty McCreery - Swingin'
Okay...I'm SOOOO glad the group called him out on his mic handling. Good singing, but Jimmy Iovine called it...the audience can get tired of the same ole Scotty. Not a breakout performance.
*James Durbin - "Uprising"
Great theater! Great entrance! Great song choice! Great performance! It was a perfect choice for him and it made him a standout.
*Haley Reinhart - "Rolling In The Deep"
Treacherous waters!!!! Adele is becoming one of the Untouchables (Whitney, Mariah, Celine).
Haley just validated why she's still around. She just sang the eff out of that song!
Little bouncy still, but she managed to rein it in.
Jacob Lusk - "Dance With My Father"
Something was off. He was great, as usual, but it wasn't the Moment. The earpiece issue seemed to throw him, but beyond that it wasn't as broad as it shoulda been.
*Casey Abrams - "Harder to Breathe"
Casey is a MONSTER! He looks like a Hobbit. But he just gave a kick-ass rock performance! He breathed such life into a fun rock-pop song. Wow! He made the 7 second delay guy work!
Stefano Langone - "Closer"
So disappointed. That was not a singer's song. It is more a performance song, but it just didn't go where it needed to go. He's a vocal powerhouse, but that was not the best performance.
Lauren Alaina - "Born to Fly"
She sounded pretty good, but it was a throwaway song. Not really a challenge. She made it so effortless that it seemed understated.
Top 2
James and Haley (Casey, as well)
Bottom 2
Stefano and Scotty (although Jacob is on notice)
I don't think Stefano saved himself this week
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
American Idol - Music from the Movies
Jennifer is the Most Beautiful Woman in America, Pia was robbed, Paul McDonald - "Old Time Rock and Roll" He doesn't need to dance. Ever. Ever...Ever. Vocally okay, but not necessarily blowing away. Lauren Alaina - "The Climb" (and I love Will.I.Am. ) Beautiful job and I loved the colors in her voice, but I don't think she murdered this song as much as we wanted her to. It opened well and the promise was there, but she didn't have her moment with it. **Stefano Langone - "End of the Road" WHAT?!? You just stood up on that stage and went toe to toe with Boyz II Men and held your own!!! You go, boy!!!!!! Scotty McCreery - "I Crossed My Heart" Jack "Why doesn't someone take him aside and talk to him about the way he holds his mic?" He gave a really good performance and it was so totally in his wheelhouse, country radio should pick him up. **Casey Abrams - "Nature Boy" Wow! What a wonderful JAZZ performance! Natural! Smooth! Swagger! Amazing! Haley Reinhart - "Call Me" Here is where her youth gets in the way. Vocally, she has the chops, but the performance quality was awkward. She didn't connect to the lyric. She's a teen singing about being a slut and performing with her hair. **Jacob Lusk - "Bridge Over Troubled Water" He's got an amazing instrument. No doubt. I have the utmost respect for him. Some of the visual tics were subdued. Now, I pray he takes next week to surprise me. James Durbin - "Heavy Metal" w/Zac Wylde Stuck to his guns and woke the audience up! Not exactly a singer's song (there was a 20 second song break), but he did bring it. Top 2 Casey, Stefano, and Jacob Bottom 2 Haley and Paul America will probably vote Stefano out, but Paul needs to go.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
American Idol - Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Week
Steven Tyler kicked off the show with a history of one of the most important musical institutions in popular American music, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Gwen Stefani and Will.I.Am provided assistance to the singers, so let's see what all that help did for the Idols. Jacob Lusk - "Man in the Mirror" Oddly, the song wasn't very interesting. No matter if he was singing with Siedah Garrett or Michael Jackson, it was just kind of a walk-through. Not horrible vocally or anything, but I tend to expect more from him now. Haley Reinhart - "Piece of My Heart" Too perky for the song, but vocally stunning! She can sing her butt off, but she needed to connect to the lyrics more. Casey Abrams "Have You Ever Seen The Rain" Really in his element. Not a big challenge for him vocally, but he is an artist without any peer in the group, so he stands out. Lauren Alaina "Natural Woman" You go, girl. Very natural and she made some wonderful choices vocally. James Durbin "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" Jack "I thought it was really, really good." Me "Kinda sleepy." Took a chance on a ballad and it mostly paid off, but it could get lost in all the more powerful performances. Scotty McCreery "That's All Right Mama" Vocally it was on point, but I can't watch him holding the microphone like that. He had a little hip hop flavor in his performance, then he would grab the mic and start looking like a creeper. Pia Toscano "River Deep, Moutain High" Vocally it was pretty damn amazing. Performance quality still needs to perform it. She still has that "fashion model with the amazing voice" quality. Jennifer called it: she needs to she what the performers before her had and exuded and work that into her performances. Stefano Langone "When a Man Loves a Woman" I don't know why America is sleeping on him. He is as good as Jacob is, without all of the awkward facial tics. Paul McDonald "Folsom Prison Blues" Wow. This is actually the best I've seen him perform. Energetic, fun, and you could hear his voice. It worked! His quirkiness didn't kill the song. Top 2: Pia and Paul Bottom 2: Jacob (boring) and James (rock, but not formidable) It's a tough week and the performers were really very good. I may be wrong, but looks like James could go home.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Kirstie Alley & Maksim Chmerkovskiy - Cha-Cha-Cha
The woman no one expected to do well and the glorious middle finger she shot her haters. Proof positive that it's not the size of the woman, but the drive in the talent.
Wendy Williams & Tony Dovolani - Cha-Cha-Cha
I wanted (Oh how I wanted...) Wendy Williams to do well, but this is what we get.
Dancing with the Stars (Week 3)
Story Week This week, stars have to dance to a song and a story that has deep personal meaning to them. Here's how they did, minus the emotional backstory to cloud the issue. Wendy Williams - (Foxtrot "Last Night a DJ Saved My Life") Ugh...this was a mess.You could see her counting the steps and walking through the routine. Beautiful, as always, but about as comfortable on the floor as one Ms. Kardashian. Chelsea Kaine - (Cha Cha "Chelsea") She is one of my favorites this season. She's got musicality and she looks like a real dancer. Carrie Anne called it...she looks a little like Julianne, so good for her! Chris Jericho - (Rhumba "Let It Be") A lovely performance. His hips were a little wonky, but otherwise it was good performance. Kendra Wilkinson - (Rhumba "You and Me") Okay, what the hell happened in the smoke? Once she started dancing, it was actually very good. Sexy, hot, and controlled. Romeo - (Rhumba "I'll Be There") Very nice, but the emotional aspect felt very different from the one Chris did. He was more graceful than Chris, but it was just okay. Hines Ward - (Samba "Fantasy") Loved it, despite the couple of bobbles! Very natural, fun, and joyful. Petra Nemcova - (Waltz "You Raise Me Up") Very lovely dance. Dmitri did a great job with choreography and she looked very natural and graceful in the routine. Sugar Ray Leonard - (Paso Doble "My Prerogative") Ouch. What in the world did they see (the judges) that I didn't?!? He walked through it and looked awkward. (And producers, please stop making the dancers do cheesy Kirstie Alley - (Rhumba "Over the Rainbow") A performance worthy of 9s and let the jokes fly about Maks crumbling under the weight ... Ralph Macchio - (Rhumba "Stay Gold") There wasn't quite as much fluidity as one would expect from the dance, but it was a good effort. Top 2 Chris and Hines (Kirstie gets a special pass) Bottom 2 *sigh* Wendy and Sugar Ray Wendy needs to be the one to go.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
American Idol - Top 11 (Week 2) Elton John Week
Tomorrow night, 2 singers get cut after the judges saved Casey. Here's how it went down:
Scotty - (Country Comfort) One of Elton's only country songs.
Scotty has a fantastic voice, deep and rich. I need him to stretch. He is singing ballads week after week. He is deep dish country and that is his home, but he's gonna be challenged in the coming style weeks and he HAS to show growth.
Naima - (I'm Still Standing)
The reggee flavor was interesting. Like Scotty, she's an artist who knows herself. She did a good job making it her own, but it's really a "fuck you" song and it didn't deliver on the intent of the song.
Paul - (Rocket Man)
Toothpaste sales for him.
Wow...there is next to no power in his voice. Elton has a SUBSTANCE to his voice, but Paul doesn't.
*Pia - (Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me)
Gorgeous! Knocked it out of the park! I mean, she did a lovely, composed job and she was so natural. The call about ballads was right, but she is one of my favorites.
Stefano - Tiny Dancer
Jack and I disagreed slightly. Jack hated it. I thought he did a servicable job and it was a nice showcase for his voice. Still, his voice is kinda awesome.
Lauren - Candle in the Wind
Still can't believe she's 16. She gave a very beautiful vocal performance. The visual performance was a little awkward, but it;s one of the few moments we wanted to hear the song go longer. Effortless, controlled, and full of color.
James - Saturday Night's Alright
Kinda fun! The choreography worked itself out and he was fun in a ballad HEAVY show. He knows himself, what he loves to do and what he's singing. (Bonus points for the Pepsi joke)
Thia - Daniel
I love her voice. It was masterful and the ending was gorgeous! I hope to God America gives her a break.
*Casey - Your Song
One of the best performances of the year. Subtle, without any of the vocal indulgences, yet still very Casey.
*Jacob - Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word
Jacob is so freakin' AMAZING! I'm stunned. It was done so brilliantly, it was magic.
*Haley - Bennie and the Jets
Really good. She served up a great performance that was confident and solid!
Top 2 - Jacob and Casey (Pia and Haley were great, as well)
Bottom 3 - Paul, Naima, and Stefano
Going Home: Paul and Stefano
Scotty - (Country Comfort) One of Elton's only country songs.
Scotty has a fantastic voice, deep and rich. I need him to stretch. He is singing ballads week after week. He is deep dish country and that is his home, but he's gonna be challenged in the coming style weeks and he HAS to show growth.
Naima - (I'm Still Standing)
The reggee flavor was interesting. Like Scotty, she's an artist who knows herself. She did a good job making it her own, but it's really a "fuck you" song and it didn't deliver on the intent of the song.
Paul - (Rocket Man)
Toothpaste sales for him.
Wow...there is next to no power in his voice. Elton has a SUBSTANCE to his voice, but Paul doesn't.
*Pia - (Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me)
Gorgeous! Knocked it out of the park! I mean, she did a lovely, composed job and she was so natural. The call about ballads was right, but she is one of my favorites.
Stefano - Tiny Dancer
Jack and I disagreed slightly. Jack hated it. I thought he did a servicable job and it was a nice showcase for his voice. Still, his voice is kinda awesome.
Lauren - Candle in the Wind
Still can't believe she's 16. She gave a very beautiful vocal performance. The visual performance was a little awkward, but it;s one of the few moments we wanted to hear the song go longer. Effortless, controlled, and full of color.
James - Saturday Night's Alright
Kinda fun! The choreography worked itself out and he was fun in a ballad HEAVY show. He knows himself, what he loves to do and what he's singing. (Bonus points for the Pepsi joke)
Thia - Daniel
I love her voice. It was masterful and the ending was gorgeous! I hope to God America gives her a break.
*Casey - Your Song
One of the best performances of the year. Subtle, without any of the vocal indulgences, yet still very Casey.
*Jacob - Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word
Jacob is so freakin' AMAZING! I'm stunned. It was done so brilliantly, it was magic.
*Haley - Bennie and the Jets
Really good. She served up a great performance that was confident and solid!
Top 2 - Jacob and Casey (Pia and Haley were great, as well)
Bottom 3 - Paul, Naima, and Stefano
Going Home: Paul and Stefano
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Monday, February 7, 2011
National Anthem Fail compilation
While we can fault Christina for screwing up the lyrics, let's just look at how easily one can screw up the lyrics.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Vacation wrap-up
So, I had a week of vacation held over from the previous calendar year that I was able to take this past week and it was glorious in its simplicity. As much as I love to travel and as much as I love my partner, this was a Me-cation, a week of doing stuff for and about me, and after being worn to a nub in retail, I needed it.
The following is a list of things I accomplished for myself, or the household, in the last 7 days. This may not be a complete list as I've slept since the events of the list, but I feel like I got a lot of stuff done. Yay, me!
Slept late...everyday. (Apparently, I was tired. I only saw 8am once.)
Got Christmas packed away.
Worked out. (Huge accomplishment because I'm currently under 200 and plan to stay there. I started to list excuses why working out wasn't happening. I'll spare you.)
Discovered Southern Maid donuts.
Watched Suze Orman.
Felt guilty about my finances.
Bought a book.
Began organizing my finances.
Put financial plan in action.
Began dreading frugality.
Began shopping with Christmas gift cards to feel better.
Looked at credit report. (Free online...everyone should do it.)
Envied Hubby's credit score.
Organized slum of an office.
Realized the OWN Network was taking over my life.
Cleaned bedroom and rid self of random crap I held onto for years.
Mailed belated Christmas gifts.
Realized I was a gift hoarder.
Found gift for mother I forgot to mail.
Sent friend Suze Orman video. (I shouldn't suffer guilt alone.)
Updated blog.
Cooked dinners instead of eating out.
Planned spending for household for rest of 2011.
Fixed broken light pullchain on ceiling fan (the wonders of the internet).
Setup husband's wireless printer.
Backed up files on my old laptop.
Purged closet of clothes I don't wear and donated them to the local LGBT center in town.
Watched 3 movies. (2 really good ones and a TOTAL crap one that was fun.)
Finished all of the ironing for the week.
Exchanged CD I received as a gift for clothes. (Although I still don't like Target's donations, I just don't know how to quit you.)
Cleaned up after the puppies.
Listened to podcasts.
Found some new music. (Nothing to be too excited about...MJ and Eminem. Will listen this week.)
Read half of Stephen King's "The Dome." (Good stuff!)
Wow...I did get some stuff accomplished this week, all without spending myself into more debt. I feel pretty much rested, although on these cold mornings the electric blanket makes oversleeping a reality. Tomorrow, I'll return to retail and try not to refer to it as Hell. I'll ease back into the grind, discover what I missed in the last week, and hope the rest of the year goes as wonderfully as the first part. Paying off credit cards will be the biggest boogerbear for me, not just because of the amount, but because I made a list of things I want, but don't need right now and I'm an electronics whore, so my Wants are expensive. (New iPad, anyone?)
So my Me-cation was a success!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
The following is a list of things I accomplished for myself, or the household, in the last 7 days. This may not be a complete list as I've slept since the events of the list, but I feel like I got a lot of stuff done. Yay, me!
Slept late...everyday. (Apparently, I was tired. I only saw 8am once.)
Got Christmas packed away.
Worked out. (Huge accomplishment because I'm currently under 200 and plan to stay there. I started to list excuses why working out wasn't happening. I'll spare you.)
Discovered Southern Maid donuts.
Watched Suze Orman.
Felt guilty about my finances.
Bought a book.
Began organizing my finances.
Put financial plan in action.
Began dreading frugality.
Began shopping with Christmas gift cards to feel better.
Looked at credit report. (Free online...everyone should do it.)
Envied Hubby's credit score.
Organized slum of an office.
Realized the OWN Network was taking over my life.
Cleaned bedroom and rid self of random crap I held onto for years.
Mailed belated Christmas gifts.
Realized I was a gift hoarder.
Found gift for mother I forgot to mail.
Sent friend Suze Orman video. (I shouldn't suffer guilt alone.)
Updated blog.
Cooked dinners instead of eating out.
Planned spending for household for rest of 2011.
Fixed broken light pullchain on ceiling fan (the wonders of the internet).
Setup husband's wireless printer.
Backed up files on my old laptop.
Purged closet of clothes I don't wear and donated them to the local LGBT center in town.
Watched 3 movies. (2 really good ones and a TOTAL crap one that was fun.)
Finished all of the ironing for the week.
Exchanged CD I received as a gift for clothes. (Although I still don't like Target's donations, I just don't know how to quit you.)
Cleaned up after the puppies.
Listened to podcasts.
Found some new music. (Nothing to be too excited about...MJ and Eminem. Will listen this week.)
Read half of Stephen King's "The Dome." (Good stuff!)
Wow...I did get some stuff accomplished this week, all without spending myself into more debt. I feel pretty much rested, although on these cold mornings the electric blanket makes oversleeping a reality. Tomorrow, I'll return to retail and try not to refer to it as Hell. I'll ease back into the grind, discover what I missed in the last week, and hope the rest of the year goes as wonderfully as the first part. Paying off credit cards will be the biggest boogerbear for me, not just because of the amount, but because I made a list of things I want, but don't need right now and I'm an electronics whore, so my Wants are expensive. (New iPad, anyone?)
So my Me-cation was a success!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Thursday, January 13, 2011
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