A friend posted this on their Facebook and I just had to share it with y'all. You'll especially love it if someone from your past has tried to add you on Facebook and you'd rather slit your wrists than to accept them as a friend there...

The other night in Baton Rouge, 25-year-old Mitchell Deslatte drove up to the Troop A state trooper's station.

Sounds pretty standard, huh?

I didn't mention ... he was DRUNK!

Wait. It gets worse for him.

He was buzzed into the station and he asked the desk officer if he was in a HOTEL!

[pause for laughter]

And yes. He was arrested for DWI.

Apparently he missed the memo about not driving to a police station while drunk off your ass.

Why do people continue to abuse animals just so they can gamble??

In Shelton, CT, police arrested 19 people in connection with a bird fighting operation. No, they were not fighting roosters!

Would you believe it was canaries??

Yep! The people were actually fighting songbirds! Apparently, while the birds are normally docile, they will act aggressively towards one another. Especially in breeding season.

When are people going to understand that you can't treat animals this way?

Can you believe the finale is just one week away? I hope that the choreography gets a lot better for next week. The talent of the dancers might be increased this season, but the routines are not nearly as good as seasons past. Onto the recap!

Jeanine & Ade - Samba w/ Louis VanAmstel - They said they were pushing the "sexy" envelope but I don't think they ever even got to the vicinity of sexiness. Ade looked stiff and cheesy. I found it interesting that even though he was dancing with the most attractive female on the show, he came off looking really "gay" ... and ironically, they were dancing to Lady GaGa's "disco stick" song. Hopefully the voters will see just how bad Ade was and get rid of him!

Melissa & Evan - Broadway w/ Tyce Diorio - "Get me to the church on time" was the theme of the routine where Evan is the nervous groom and Melissa is his bride-to-be trying to get him to the church. Tyce said it all when he said that "Evan is a dream" to choreography in a Broadway number. 'Lil C is clearly an idiot to think that Evan didn't live up to expectations! Even Mary said that this routine could be renamed, "get me to the FINALE on time!"

[Side note: How great did Evan look in his underwear! Only he could make sock suspenders look sexy!]

Kayla & Brandon - Contemporary w/ Stacey Tookey - Technically this was a great performance but something was missing. I just didn't much chemistry between the two. I still think they danced wonderfully though.

Jeanine & Ade - Hip Hop w/ Nappie Tabs - This was another case of the choreography being much better than the performance. They weren't synchronized in some parts and at times Jeanine looked like a cheerleader trying to dance hip hop. I can't even say the choreography was that great. We need Wade, Shane and Mia choreography a lot more like they used to!

Melissa & Evan - Quick Step w/ Louis VanAmstel - I was very nervous for Evan when they announced the 2nd dance genre they had chosen. It wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it could be. 'Lil C was FINALLY impressed with the size of Evan's dancing. I did think that Mary shouldn't be critical of the dancers if the routine that has been choreographed isn't a true traditional quick step! They had fun and it was fun watching them - THAT is the point of this show!

Kayla & Brandon - Disco w/ Dorianna Sanchez - Once again, Dorianna choreographed a great energetic disco routine. I was exhausted just watching them! Like the first performance, I still didn't see the chemistry between the two dancers that really needs to be there for it to be a complete success. Also, the two seemed a bit manic at times. I can't blame them too much for losing some of the energy towards the end. I'm amazed they made it through without collapsing!

Group Numbers

Guys - Sonya created a "willy wonka" style routine with the guys being like moving pictures that come to a stop. Evan may not have danced the biggest, but even the judges thought he was the one who stood out the most. The other two met the expectations people had for them, but Evan surpassed what was expected from him. The guys, IMO, gave the better performance.

Girls - While the guys opened the show in a dynamic way, the same can't be said of how the girls ended the show. Sonya created a superhero of a routine but the girls didn't dance up to a super level. It seemed more like 3 people dancing on the same stage rather than a team of 3 dancing together. They could have really shined in this performance but they didn't.

Kayla - Strong but not spectacular.

Ade - He was manic and out of control. I think it is definitely his time to finally leave the competition.

Melissa - For once, she didn't bore me. However, I don't think her solo is big enough to compete with the other two girls. This might be her last week on the show.

Brandon - Yes, it's a brilliant performance. However, we've already seen it twice before!

Jeanine - Wasn't as fluid as we normally see her but she's done enough to make the finale.

Evan - He received the biggest applause out of the 6 dancers when he was introduced. He makes it all look so easy! He is easily the best performer on the show.

Who's going home? I think that Ade is clearly the guy who has not earned a place in the finale. Out of the girls, I think Jeanine is safely into the finale but I'm not sure which girl will join her there. Both Melissa and Kayla have spent time in the danger zone throughout the season. I think that Kayla deserves to be there just a fraction more than Melissa does.

The photo above is Olympic figure skater Nicole Bobek, who was the U.S. National Champion in 1995. She had a long amateur career, winning several titles as well as competing Internationally.

But that was then.

And this is now.

This is what Nicole Bobek looks 14 years later. She was one of 20 people arrested in a New Jersey methamphetamine ring. She was arrested in Florida and now faces charges of conspiracy to distribute meth. She is now facing up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

I remember watching her skate on television and to me, she was one of the best skaters to come out of the U.S. in my lifetime. I remember she was one of the hardest working, determined athletes I knew at the time. She was one who always persevered when no one expected her to do well. It's such a disappointment to see that this is who she has become.

I just wonder if she couldn't handle not being America's sweetheart anymore or just fell in with the wrong people?

I was reading something on MSNBC's website when this caught my eye.

New parents may balk at naming their newborn boys such tried-and-true but yawn-inducing names as Michael or David — but a new study shows that if they play it safe, they may be doing their babies a favor.

Congratulations to the people who've worked on So You Think You Can Dance the past 5 seasons on reaching their 100th episode!

One of the best things about the episode was bringing back three of the best past performances for an encore performance. We got to see Jamie & Hok reprise The Hummingbird and The Flower, Heidi & Travis in Mia Michaels' Emmy-winning The Park Bench, and Wade Robson's Rama Lama featuring himself and the Top 10 from Season 2! Getting to see Wade perform is even better than seeing his choreography performed!

With the good, comes the bad.

Katie Holmes insulted Judy Garland's memory with her performance.

She pulled a Britney and lipsynched the entire song - and not very well at that. Her dancing was mostly walking around and wiggling a little. Sad to think anyone thought she performed well! Also, did Tom Cruise turn her into a 45-year-old woman?? She looks much older than she is!

As for the bottom 4, Kayla & Janette and Jason & Brandon were the ones in danger. I was shocked to see Janette and Brandon in the danger zone. Goes to show that maybe Brandon's cockiness is turning off the voters and that Janette's solo really hurt her votes. In the end, we had to say good-bye to Jason and Janette. Jason leaving was not a shock, but I really did expect to see Melissa heading home as well. Well, maybe this week we can see Melissa & Ade head out together! Ah, that would be nice.

** Sorry about the lateness of this! I was without internet for the past few days! It was written following the performance show and before the results.**

We're only two weeks away from crowning the winner of Season 5! Hard to believe that we're almost to the end of the season already. So far, the people I have expected to make it to the end are still in the competition .... but will they make it through this week?

Is anyone else irritated that they had Ellen Degeneres as a guest judge? The woman can't dance very well and didn't know much about the dance genres! I'm a huge fan of hers, but I don't think she needed to be on there, especially since she was using the same jokes over and over.

Jeanette & Evan - Jazz w/ Sonya - I'm a big fan of Sonya's choreography but this concept of focusing on "wanting to make people shut up" just didn't really work for me. That said, even Nigel finally had to agree that Evan is really starting to show what kind of a star he is going to be. As usual, Jeanette was great and Mia even told her that she is her favorite dancer this season. That is very high praise, especially since Jeanette is a salsa dancer and Mia usually loves just the contemporary dancers.

Jeanine & Brandon - Waltz w/ Hunter Johnson - This routine was a mess from the starting lift. Hunter gave them a really slow waltz that demanded extreme control and while they didn't have huge mess-ups, passable isn't good enough for this point in the competition. I think this performance was extremely forgettable.

Melissa & Ade - Cha Cha w/ Tony & Melanie - Ick! This was the coldest Cha Cha I have ever seen on this show. The performance was awkward and you could tell the nerves they had during rehearsals were still there throughout the live performance. How could Nigel think this was hot? This guy has no business judging on a dance show. When the other two judges disagree so strongly so many times in one show, it's time to replace them. [Now we know how Paula Abdul must feel!] At least Mia agreed with me that this was Ade's worst performance this season.

Kayla & Jason - Broadway w/ Tyce Diorio - They lucked out that this was a jazzy number but Jason is not suited for Broadway. As always, Kayla was great although as a pair, the two didn't seem to have much chemistry together on stage, which surprised me. And Nigel insulted Gene Kelly by comparing Jason to him. I think people will forget this performance and we'll see these two in danger of being eliminated.

Dance 2

Janette & Evan - Rhumba w/ Tony & Melanie - I was reallllly worried for Evan that they would get a ballroom routine. I think Evan handled this ballroom routine much better than his previous attempt. This is the first time I think he has been 100% comfortable with his partner and contrary to Nigel's comments, it WAS sexy. Come on, look at his butt in those pants! Janette was great as always, but I think we could be seeing Evan winning the entire show. One of the reasons Benji won in season 2 is because he wasn't just another dancer. When you watched him, you knew it was Benji without even being told. Evan has that same quality.

Jeanine & Brandon - Pop Jazz w/ Laurieanne Gibson - If you're not familiar with Laurieanne, she is Diddy's choreographer from the Making The Band series on MTV. The biggest surprise about this performance is that for once, my attention was mostly on Brandon. Normally, Jeanine draws people's attention to her. I'd be surprised if these two don't make it to the Final 4.

[Jumping up on the soapbox]

I have to take a moment to mention Nigel's comments after their performance. He said that everything up to this point had been flat and boring. Well, Nigel. You cannot blame the dancers for the genres or choreography on this show. Up to this point, the performances had been ballroom, lackluster Broadway and slow jazz. If you think the show has been flat or boring, look to the producers and choreographers before you try to make the dancers feel bad about something they have no control over. And just because YOU don't think it had been exciting, the viewers of the show AND the other three judges felt differently. Quit your whining and make the improvements to the show you feel are necessary. You are the executive producer, after all. That means YOU are partially to blame.

[Jumping back down]

Melissa & Ade - Contemporary w/ Tyce Diorio - First, let me say how great the dancing of this routine was. It's one of those performances where it doesn't matter how good the technique was, just the performance quality. That being said, I was ashamed of Nigel. Had he not been told that the piece was about a woman with breast cancer, I don't think he would have been so moved by it. I just don't buy his 'sincerity' anymore on this show. As for the others, I can tell they felt something powerful and their reaction was genuine. On too many occasions, Nigel has seemed like he is putting on an act and for me, it seemed like he was this time as well. Despite the performance, I still think that these two are in danger of being eliminated.

Kayla & Jason - Hip Hop w/ Shane Sparks - Jason was a zombie who is trying to turn her into his zombie mistress. Well, the description of the routine was far better than its execution. Contrary to Jason's prediction, it was not scary. As for the execution, overall is was alright but they were out of sync in places and I don't think they hit some moves as hard as they needed to.

It was nice to see Kayla and Jeanine work harder on doing a real solo from start to finish, instead of just throw move after move. Apparently, Jason and Ade missed that lesson again this week. Just doing a big trick and not much else won't get you the title on this show. Evan had a blip with dropping his hat but was still the best solo of the night. Brandon continues to turn me off with his cocky attitude. The worst solos were Janette and Melissa. Janette tried to do some sort of contemporary solo in her salsa dress and Melissa looked like a ballet dancer trying to lead a dancersize class. They both had hideous solos!

My Bottom Four

Melissa
Kayla
Ade
Jason

I think that Ade should be going home this week, but I think Jason will be leaving instead. As for the girls, based on all the routines I think it should be Melissa going home. It will be interesting to see if popularity or great dancing will win out in the vote this week.

I know that people don't like to read about horrible things happening to children, but I think it is important that these stories get told. Sure, people know bad things happen but I think people just kind of blow it off these days. If they don't know what is happening, it's like it doesn't really happen.

I've read and blogged about some terrible behavior of parents but this might be the worst yet, or at least one of the worst.

Frank Lombard, the Associate Director of the Center for Health Policy at Duke University, was arrested when he got caught in an Internet sting. Apparently, an unnamed informant (who is also facing molestation charges) led police to Lombard.

It seems that Lombard identified himself online as "perv dad for fun," admitted molesting his 5-year-old adopted son and tried to persuade a person (an undercover cop) to travel to North Carolina to have sex with his son. He even suggested which hotel he should use!

Lombard is now facing up to 20 years in federal prison. It's times like these when I kind of wish that he could be castrated. Maybe then he'll know what it's like to be violated.

Well, maybe he'll become someone's bitch in prison.

Lombard, meet your cellmate, Bubba. Enjoy.

First I should apologize to those who've been coming here every day and not finding a lot of new items. If you have been reading, you'll know that I suffer from depression. It's safe to say it's kicking my butt right now. Thankfully, I start Zoloft next Monday. I'm hoping they give me something for anxiety so I can sleep at night.

Okay, enough about depression.

I had a looooong day today. Normally, I spend the day in bed but today, I had to get out of bed for a change. Today was my 3-month appointment with my pain specialist. I wish that I could go in there and show her how good I feel, etc. But I can't. I did, however, get an increase in my pain meds. You see, when I came back to her care she decreased my dosage because of breathing issues (longtime narcotic usage can cause it). For now, it's been decided it must just be my childhood asthma coming back. Not sure that's it, but that works for now. Hopefully now I will be able to get out of bed more.

Unfortunately, my blood pressure was high again today. So, looks like I will need to go on HBP medicine. Turns out the anti-inflammatory I've been on can cause high blood pressure, so we've discontinued using it to see if that makes a change. Can't win can I?

After the doctor's visit, we drove next door to the Perkins Rowe shopping village to see the new Harry Potter movie. While it is the best of the movies thus fair, they changed and/or left out wayyyy too much and even added a pointless scene that doesn't even take place in the book. Why do they do that? Morons. Despite all the inconsistencies, it was still a good movie.

We topped the day off with lunch at CiCi's Pizza (yes it's cheap and I love it!) and stops at the library and Whole Foods for the best tuna. If you have a Whole Foods nearby, check out their tongul tuna. I get the "no-salt-added" and it is the BEST tuna I have ever had.

So, I had a great day with my hubby. Wish I felt up to doing this stuff more. Hopefully in a few weeks I will. Here's hoping!

Not long ago I told you about a new ice cream flavor that I had discovered. Well, I found another one! Apparently, it's a regional flavor and I'm soooo glad it's in our region! If you like blueberry pie and ice cream, you're gonna love this. It's called "Delta Blues" and is creamy ice cream with blueberries, blueberry sauce and blueberry pie crust pieces. YUM!

Last night I had probably the worst "depression" night I've had in a long time.

Trust me, I've had some doozies too.

Have you ever just laid there thinking of the possible things you could do and not be motivated to doing any of them? And to top it off, I thought about doing NOTHING and wasn't even motivated to do that!

Fortunately, in a week-and-a-half I will be going on Zoloft. I'm thinking possibly of asking to get something for anxiety as well. Anyone know much about Xanax or another one?

So, did your favorite remain safe for another week?

Mine did!

He may have been the Dancing Milkshake, but he continues to be popular with the viewers. Anyone else see similarities between Evan and Season 2 Champ Benji Schwimmer? Evan has that same kind of geeky charm that viewers fell in love with three seasons ago when they crown Benji as America's Favorite Dancer. I hope we see that charm bring Evan the title as well!

As for those in danger, I don't think there were any real surprises. The Bottom 2 girls were Melissa and Randi, as I expected. I was sure that Evan was garnering the votes and not Randi, and I was right. On the guys side, I don't think anyone was surprised to see Ade and Kupono in the danger zone.

In the end, Randi and Kupono made their exits from the show.

Score another kill for the Paso Doble!

Anyone else think Evan and Brandon will just march into the finals?

Say goodbye to the pairings.

We've reached the Top 10 and now we get to see how well the dancers can work with different partners after dancing with the same partner the last five weeks. Some did well, but at least one pairing was a disaster. This show is different than American Idol in that if you have a bad week, you could be doomed even if you're popular. On Idol, you can be a trainwreck like Sanjaya and stick around for six weeks.

This week the dancers would each perform three times - one with a new partner, one solo and a group number. I'm not a fan of the group number to be honest. It's not fair for a couple to get a ballroom number and no way to redeem themselves in a second couple performance. Some, like Jason & Jeanine, were blessed with their own style. Others, like Randi & Kupono, got the kiss of death paso doble. More about the group numbers further down.

Kayla & Evan - Viennese Waltz w/ Tony & Melanie - Oh dear God. The tallest female and shortest male dancer get ballroom. Fortunately the fixed this by putting flats on Kayla and heels on Evan. That just shows how great a dancer Kayla is that she made it look like she was dancing in heels! Was the technique the best? No. But it doesn't matter. This show is about finding the FAVORITE dancer, not the best ballroom technique. The audience is going to vote based on how they feel not on a technique checklist! As Debi said, Evan handled his big woman! So shut it Nigel and Mary!!

Jeanette & Ade - Hip Hop w/ Nappie Tabs - Can we please tell Ade to take the damn pick out his hair? It's bad enough he does it in the video packages. I understand it's a style thing but just because it is doesn't mean we have to promote it. As for the dancing, it was just okay. I normally love the routines that Nappie Tabs creates but this one was really cheesy.

Jeanine & Jason - Contemporary w/ Travis Wahl (Season 2 Runner-up) - These two hit the luck jackpot in being the only couple to get their own style. You can tell Travis has been greatly influenced by Mia Michaels and he put together one hell of a routine. These two looked like they'd been dancing together all season and we easily the best performance of the night.

Randi & Kupono - Paso Doble w/ Tony & Melanie - Wow. I think Randi was the sorriest to see a new partner this week. She had been doing phenomenally until this trainwreck of a performance. First off, who's idea was it to put a brunette wig on her? It made no sense! What was worse was Kupono's performance. The Paso is the most masculine dance I can think of and he was like a wilted flower! He really needs to learn how to dance with masculinity. At the end, he even almost dropped her! Randi better hope the viewers pick up for the phone for her because Kupono may have just caused her to be collateral damage and bought her a ticket home.

Melissa & Brandon - Broadway w/ Tyce D'Orio - At first I was worried for them. Then I saw that the choreography didn't look like a Broadway style routine, which saved them. They did a routine inspired from the 60's show Hair. IMHO, I wasn't that impressed with the performance. Yes, Brandon's trick were good and Melissa was a passable hippie, but seeing the level that Evan can do, this wasn't even up to that standard. I think we could see one of these two in danger - which could possibly show us which of the pair viewers have been voting for.

Evan - Easily the best solo of the night. I love watching his Broadway-style performances. The others should really watch Evan's performances to see how to put together a proper solo from start to finish.

Kupono - He is finally learning how to put together a cohesive solo, rather than a bunch of moves put together. Still isn't difficult enough to win on this show and he will probably still be leaving the show.

Jeanine - This wasn't my favorite of the night but even when she is off she is great. She is able to transform other people's choreography but she struggles a little with her own creation.

Jeanette - It's always hard to put together a solo when your style is ballroom, or salsa in this case, but she did a very good job. She did well in showing off her incredible leg action and her amazing personality.


Jason - It started out great artistically but trailed off at the end. He really needs to put more thought into doing a full solo well. It's only 30 seconds, come on!

Ade - The performance needs to match the song. This was a solo song but fast movement. It's like he thinks if he takes off his shirt and does one big trick that it will suffice. He belongs in the Bottom 2 guys for sure.

Kayla - This was just too busy. When you try to pack so much into a 30-second solo, you lose the value of the performance quality.

Melissa - Technically, she is the best dancer on the show. But she is so boring. If this was a technical competition, she would win hands down. She needs to find a way to make people pick up the phone and vote for her.

Randi - This was the first time doing a solo on the live show and it wasn't really that good. It was sloppy and manic and even I saw her fall out of her turn sequence. I think we'll see that people have been voting to keep her because she was paired with Evan. I think she deserves to stick around at least one more week, but I'm not sure she will.

Brandon - Like many others, I have been waiting to see his solo for weeks. I wasn't impressed. It was desperate and I didn't believe the emotion he was trying to portray in the routine. I think he is an amazing dancer but I don't think he should win the whole show.

The girls started off the show with yet another Balliwood routine. Do we really need this many routines because of Slumdog Millionaire? It was well danced and the best bit was the faces on the backs of their heads. I would rather have seen something contemporary to be honest.

The boys, I thought, had the better performance. I was really worried for them when they announced it was an African dance routine. Especially for poor Evan. Or as Nigel called him, the Dancing Milkshake. This was an incredibly difficult routine and I have to say they all impressed me. And I love that new choreographer Jeffrey Page let Evan add some humor to the performance (he stuck his stomach out in the little posing section). Awesome way to close the show.

Who Should Go?

First, I think we could see something interesting. In previous seasons we have seen couples that have never been in the Bottom 3 before the Top 10 see one of the two in the Bottom 2 during the Top 10 week. That goes to show who the voters are really voting for in the pairing. Only in Season 2 did a couple never find themselves in the Bottom 3 nor in the bottom 2 before the Finale (Champion Benji & Donyelle). Will we see this happen this week? I think we could.

I think out of the girls, Melissa and Randi could be in danger of leaving. It's also possible that Jeanette could as well. In the end, I think it SHOULD be Melissa but I think we'll find out that people have been voting for Evan and not for Randi. As for the guys, I really want to see Ade be eliminated but I think that hideous performance Kupono had will be his last.

Not having taken a school bus to school as a kid, I don't know how well people know the bus driver. After all, you're entrusting your child's safety to a complete stranger!

Do you know their name?

Their driving record?

What about if they have a criminal record?

Chances are you barely know their name. In fact, in Baton Rouge they have a system of busing kids from one side of town to the other where kids have to change buses in the middle of the trip. Many people haven't even met their child's bus driver. Even if you have, you may not know the secrets their bus driver is keeping.

A lot of folks in Bossier City, LA, wish they had known.

A few weeks ago, 75-year-old bus driver, Thomas Smith Jr., was arrested for having sexual contact with two teenage boys who live near him and used to ride his bus. Apparently, the man use money to entice the boys into his home and have them insert objects, such as cucumbers and toys, into his rectum. He paid them $20 for each occurrence. He did not molest the boys.

He retired from his job the day after being arrested, before the school could fire him.

Apparently, his secret was pretty well-known around his neighborhood. He admitted to paying teens and even adults who need money for drugs to perform his fetish on him. Smith told investigators he got the fetish 40 years ago after watching a porn video. That same day, while living in New Orleans, he stopped at a grocery store and bought vegetables to use and has been that way since.

As revolted as I am by his actions, I am more troubled by the teens. They'd been doing this for 2 years. What have their parents been teaching them, or not teaching them, that they'd be so willing to continue this behavior for the little amounts of cash he offered them? Hopefully the teens' parents will get these kids some help and begin teaching them why this behavior was so wrong.

After last night, only 10 dancers remain in the competition to become America's favorite dancer. As with past seasons, it is the Top 10 that are guaranteed spots on the National tour once the show ends.

The evening started with a hip hop group routine choreographed by Nappie Tabs (Napoleon & Tabitha), followed by the first two couples learning their fate.

For the first time this season, I had all three couples correct in the Bottom 3! I was sure that Kaitlyn & Jason and Jeanine & Philip would be dancing for their lives. I was ecstatic to see Melissa & Ade in the Bottom 3 as well. The look on Kayla & Kupono's faces said it all - they were shocked. Unlike American Idol, people voting for this show actually care about the performances.

After watching the six solos, it was clear to me that Kaitlyn was dancing for the final time. She just didn't do enough to stay around. Plus, she'd been in the Bottom 3 a total of three times and that is hard to overcome. As for the guys, I thought the weakest solo was Ade's. I knew Philip was in trouble though. In his own style he was AMAZING. But this show is about all genres of dance and for that reason, he was the dancer cut instead of Ade.

On a positive note, Nigel and the other producers decided that both Kaitlyn and Philip would be going on tour, and not just as replacements or occasional performers. Smart move. Philip will sell lots of tickets for them.

So, the Top 5 girls are Jeanine, Jeanette, Melissa, Kayla and Randi. The Top 5 guys are Brandon, Ade, Jason, Kupono and EVAN. Now we are voting for the individuals and not for the couple. Now, instead of the judges choosing one of the Bottom 3 of each gender, the lowest vote getter of each gender will be eliminated. Now voting is even more important to keep your favorite in the competition. [Vote for EVAN!]

It is clear that the two most popular couples are Randi & Evan and Jeanette & Brandon, since they are the only dancers who have not been in the Bottom 3 at all this season. The question is, which of the four are people really voting for?

Well, the day has finally come.

Big Brother 11 premiered tonight!

As usual, they will have three episodes each week: Sunday @ 8EST/7CST, Tuesday (Power of Veto) @ 9EST/8CST, and Thursday's live eviction show @ 8EST/7CST. As usual, Head of Household competitions will take place on Thursday's show.

There are a few changes and twists this season. First, the house has been turned into an 'Eco-Machine' with walls made from recycled wood, composting of leftover food and even a waterfall, which uses recycled water.

The major twist this season is that the houseguests, although playing individually, have been put into 3-person teams based on what clique they belonged to in high school: brains, populars, athletes or 'off-beats'. Also, Julie announced that there would be a 13th houseguest joining one of the four teams, who would also be the first Head of Household (HoH). Four former contestants, each representing one of the cliques, were all hoping to have a second chance in the game.

The former houseguests vying for the one spot were: Season 5's "Cowboy" Mike, Season 8's Jessica, and Brian & Jesse from Season 10. None of these four would compete in the HoH competition, but they would play a role in the challenge.

The first HoH competition, called "The Wedgie," had the contestants inside a pair of giant briefs and holding onto a hanging toilet seat. The challenge was simply to hang onto the seat, with the final remaining person claiming victory for their clique. All members of the winner's clique would be safe from eviction this week. Not surprisingly, the Brains and the Off-Beats were the first two teams eliminated from the competition. Braden and Laura put up a great fight, but it was the Athletes who won the first competition.

That means Meathead is back.

Jesse is so cocky that he makes Narcissus look humble. [Am I the only one dreading have to listen to him whine again this season?]

So, now that we know which of the former contestants is back in the house (and I am sure he will find himself nominated for eviction as soon as possible), it's time to take a look at the other 12 houseguests. Here are my first impressions of each houseguest:

Braden - 28 - surfer - I think this guy thinks he is actually smart. Someone give him a dictionary so he can look up the true meaning of the word.

Casey - 41 - teacher/DJ - This guy was complaining about being put into the Off-Beat clique ... I'm wondering how this guy even got cast for the show! I feel sorry for his students. I couldn't imagine listening to this guy all day.

Chima - 32 - journalist - This chick was in the commercials saying, "no one likes a crybaby." Um, I didn't know Bitches was one of the cliques being used on the show. I see her (and her laugh) getting on people's nerves right away. I think she'll find herself on the chopping block very soon.

Jeff - 30 - advertising sales - He is easily the most attractive guy in the house this season (I am sure Jesse would argue with this but Jesse is looking like a steroidal rock IMO). The girls are already crushing on him (even the married ones) and I don't see anyone wanting to get rid of him anytime soon.

Jordan - 22 - waitress - There is always one naive girl in the house. She seems sweet, but I can see people using her for her duration in the house.

Lydia - 24 - special effects make-up artist - I dig this girl but I think she's going to have a hard time fitting in with the rest. I think she is one of those people you need a lot of time to get to know and that is a problem in this game.

Kevin - 29 - graphic designer - It would be nice of Big Brother to cast a gay contestant who isn't a stereotypical gay. This guy is already on my last nerve and it's only night 1. If I never hear the word "blackanese" again in my lifetime, I'll be happy.

Laura - 21 - bikini model - All I can say is boobs, boobs, boobs. That's about all this girl is. I'm surprised she doesn't fall forward. Something tells me that she'll be competing with Chima for 'bitch of the house'.

Michele - 27 - neuroscientist - Poor Michele. Her game plan was to not let the other houseguests know just how intelligent she is (she has a PhD.), and Big Brother decides to out her anyways. It will be interesting to see if she can find away to succeed in the social aspect of the competition.

Natalie - 24 - tae kwon do champion - From the get-go, Natalie is hiding stuff from the rest. Like Michele, she downplayed her athletic skills and even went as far as telling the others that she is 18 and just graduated high school (of course, Kevin called her out on the age thing). Obviously, she was outed as an athlete anyways. I think if the athletes hadn't won HoH, she would be on the block. She'll still be up for eviction soon anyways, though.

Ronnie - 30 - gamer - He was crying when he was over-acting as he was pretending to be excited about get his key on camera. He may be the gayest straight person I've ever seen. I have a feeling he is not cut out for the back-stabbing, etc., in this game.

Russell - 24 - mixed martial arts/real estate broker - He is way too cocky to do well in this competition. Jesse should know already that it's not the best strategy in this game. He may also be the dumbest guy in the house.

Well, that's my first impressions. I'm sure some will change, while others will hold true. It's too early for me to pick a favorite ... How about y'all?

Well, it's time to dance to get into the Top 10 ... and onto the national tour. This week, couples had two chances to impress both the judges and the viewers. Overall it was a very good week, with only a few routines falling a bit short. As usual, I disregard what Nigel says, and post my own thoughts. Considering I vote for the show, my opinion is more important anyways.

Melissa & Ade - Disco w/ Dorianna Sanchez - The outfits were flashier than the dancing. Am I the only one who doesn't care if these two are on the show or not? Melissa was really stiff and Ade crossed the line into cheeseball territory. Nigel thought they were tremendous. Can we tell he wants these two in the Top 10?

Kayla & Kupono - Contemporary w/ Mia Michaels - In this awesome creation, Kupono represented Kayla's addiction, always coming back despite her tries to get rid of him. This is the first time Kupono looked like he actually belongs in the top 20. As always, Kayla was incredible. I would be shocked if she were to go home this week.

Kaitlyn & Jason - Foxtrot w/ Tony & Melanie - I was bored with this routine. Jason was supposed to be a "macho gangster" but he never even came close to it. The ending was actually pretty amateur. Kaitlyn was great but there was no chemistry between the two of them. They need to really bring it in their second dance if they hope to continue into the Top 10.

Jeanine & Phillip - Russian Folk Dance - What the hell? It was a "traditional" Russian Folk dance, but it was really simplistic moves. For once, it is clearly the choreographer's fault with this one. The two did well with what they were give but they weren't given enough.

Randi & Evan - Hip Hop w/ Nappie Tabs - These two get some of the weirdest concepts. This time, Randi has just found out she is pregnant and Evan is proposing. That's not the best model to put in front of the kiddies at home people! The choreography was brilliant and suited them well. If they don't make the Top 10, something is wrong!

Jeanette & Brandon - Argentine Tango w/ Miriam & Leonardo - We saw these two dance a couple weeks back and they were awesome. Now, it was time for them to teach Jeanette and Brandon an authentic Argentine Tango. WOW! That's all I can say about this routine. It was clearly the best ballroom routine ever in show history. And now, I am finally seeing Brandon as a legitimate contender for this season's title.

Melissa & Ade - Waltz w/ Ron Montez - I can't put my finger on it, but there is something missing when these two dance. Technically, they are both great. In fact, Melissa may be the best technical dancer in show history. For once, the judges didn't fawn all over these two. If it were my choice, Ade would be the guy to go home this week. I just think the other guys belong in the Top 10 more than he does.

Kayla & Kupono - Broadway w/ Joey Dowling - This show just didn't have that WOW! factor. It was from West Side Story and it seemed like it would do better as a group number, not a twosome. They were supposed to dancing like they were in "love at first site". That emotion was completely missing from this performance. I'm not sure this routine will keep them safe this week, even with the outstanding first dance they did.

Kaitlyn & Jason - Lyrical Jazz w/ Mandy Moore - It's great to see them in their own style for a change. In their own style, the two were really pretty great. I'm sure we'll still see these two dancing for their lives again this week.

Jeanine & Phillip - Jive w/ Tony & Melanie - This was LIGHTYEARS better than the last time they danced a ballroom routine. Even Nigel acknowledged the vast improvement on Phillip's part. I think we might still be seeing them in the Bottom 3.

Randi & Evan - Samba w/ Pasha & Anya - Doing ballroom is so tough when you're short like these two, but I thought they pulled it off. And come on, who wouldn't like watching Evan in those super tight pants? [Pause for visual]

Jeanette & Brandon - Jazz w/ Wade Robson - Wade Robson is such an artistic GENIUS. This routine had the two as a pair of thieves - Brandon, the pensive one, and Jeanette, the impulsive one. This was easily the best routine of the night IMHO. I think I may finally be a fan of Brandon's.

My Bottom Three

Kaitlyn & Jason
Jeanine & Philip
Melissa & Ade

I have a feeling that Jason or Philip could be going, but I really think it should be Ade. As for the girls, I think Jeanine is safely into the Top 10. Of the other two, I think if Kaitlyn can bring an amazing solo, she'll be safe. I think nerves of being in the Bottom 3 for the first time could derail Melissa & Ade.

I hate my phone.

Back when my partner lost their job, we had to import his work number onto my AT&T account. So, my number changed so we could do the Family Plan and I gave him my Blackjack. They had a deal on a RAZR phone, so we got that for me. I can't stand it.

I've been wanting an IPhone for awhile now but there is no way we could afford one. I can't even upgrade to one because I'm not eligible for an upgrade until December.

So, I am looking for someone wanting to sell or just get rid of their old IPhone. I know lots of people got the new one recently, so I am hoping there is someone out there who can help.

Anyone??

The other day, Darin told me he bought a pool. Immediately, I was worried about what he might have done. What he bought was a $10 blow-up pool from Dollar General. This pool is barely big enough for a small child, let alone a grown adult.

After Darin blew the pool up, I heard him laughing in the kitchen. He came in and told me about the warning label he found on the bottom of the pool.

That's right folks. It says, "no diving."

WHAT?

Who the hell would think it was okay to dive into a wading pool? The sad thing is, someone had to have done this at some point for them to think they needed to include a warning label.

On Monday we drove down to Houma, LA, to go to the clinic that I wrote about a couple weeks back. Last week, I had gone in to get my breathing checked out. They prescribed an inhaler (that I was on as a kid and it's not doing anything) and sent me down to the charity hospital to get a chest X-ray.

The great thing about going there for the X-ray is that since I have no income or insurance, I don't have to pay for anything that I get done there. The X-ray was normal, so that doesn't help us figure out why I'm having this weird breathing issue. No telling what they will have me do next. Would be nice to figure out what is going on.

This past Monday, I had an appointment with the mental health counselor on staff. I have been in desperate need of a counselor and also for anti-depressants for the past six months. The appointment itself went pretty good. It's always nice to know that someone understands what you've been through, what you're currently going through and the thoughts that go through your mind. This visit was basically for him to get to know me and for me to get comfortable talking with him. He has already told me that I will go on meds - most likely Zoloft. They have a pharmacy at the clinic and it will only cost $4 for a month's supply.

Here's the scary part ...

When I first went into the back to see the counselor, they took my vitals. When the nurse took my blood pressure, it was 160/120. Now, I have never had problems with my blood pressure. Usually when I am in pain it goes up a bit (like 130/90) but never that high. Apparently, my pulse was racing at 120. After my appointment, they took the BP again. This time, I was at 200/120. That's when it was decided I was going to the ER. After a 2-hour wait, I was finally see by the triage person. My BP was ranging between 135/95 and 165/95. They asked if I had taken anything to get it lower and of course I hadn't. The EKG they did was also normal.

Weird, huh? So now we get to try to figure this out, too.

At least I was fine.

What do you get when you cross a Mormon father, a teen singing sensation and a hooker? Why it's Jeff Archuleta, father of American Idol's David Archuleta. If you haven't heard, he got busted in a massage parlor about to get a "happy ending" to his massage. Plus, he admitted to having done the dirty deed there several times before. Well, here is his story starring Scott Baio. Enjoy.

Well folks, I must admit that I missed the first half of tonight's episode. From what I gather, I didn't miss much. I made it home in time for most of Ed's date and I did hear her say that she declined the "fantasy suite" with Reid and Kiptyn. I wasn't surprised when she went to the suite with Ed, though. As she put it, Ed needed to "catch up" to the other guys. I have a feeling she has already decided that Ed is 'the one'.

I found it interesting that she declined the first two opportunities. She said that she wasn't ready for that with them yet, but she did go with Ed. And Ed has had less time with her than the first two! Plus, last season she did go with Jason. Now there is some food for thought. Oh, I bet you're wondering if she spent the night with Wes, too. Well, they didn't really get to that point.

As we all know, Wes has a girlfriend. I don't care how many different times he states that he doesn't have one and despite his pleadings, he isn't a bad liar. He's actually done quite well to keep it from her (or so they'd have us believe). I also don't take a whole lot of confidence in Laurel's attempts to also deny that they are still in a relationship. If she really wasn't, she wouldn't be trying so hard to keep this stuff in the media. How much you want to bet that she wants to be an actress? Oh, and apparently she has a thing for Bachelor men ... she dated Brad Womack.

As for their date, they spent the whole day together and things started unraveling at dinner. Apparently, Jillian felt that Wes was being distant with her during the day and she decided that it was time for another round of "Does Wes have a girlfriend?" Once again, he denied it and started doing a monologue about not being with this Laurel person. Wes even told Jillian that "Numero Uno" is what is most important and the person he is most concerned with on the show. I know, right. Such a shock that he is only looking out for himself. Then he mad e a serious blunder.

He meant to say "my ex-girlfriend," but what came out was "girlfriend. I mean, ex-girlfriend."

Yeah, I think it was kind of awkward at the point. There was a moment or two of silence and then Wes picked up the "fantasy suite" card and read it out loud. He said that they should go for it. Jillian just looked at him with a look on her face that said, "what the fuck?!" I laughed really loud at that moment. It was the look we've all been waiting for! Then she put him in a cab and said good night. That was probably the biggest 'dis' ever on the show. Oh, another great Wes-ism was, "I have a song off my 2nd album that is #2 in Chihuahua, Mexico."

I thought it hilarious to see Wes so confident at the beginning of the Rose Ceremony. In fact, after Ed and Reid received their roses, Kiptyn told Wes that Wes could be leaving and Wes said, "it ain't me dude."

WRONG! There is no more Wes. I'd like to think that Jillian finally saw through Wes' act. I think it is more believable that she already knew about his situation and kept him around for the producers to draw out the storyline as much as they could. The funniest part was his "confessional" in the limo. He went on about how he is the first bachelor in history to get to the final 4 with a girlfriend and that "everyone's gonna know my name." Oh, and he already is planning a tour and all to promote his band's new CD. He thinks people will actually buy this one.

I'm sure that CD will be in the $3 bin in just a week or two.

Let's face it. This season has been pretty boring. In fact, the final 5 guys may be the most boring group of contestants in show history. This week was the hometown visits, which usually provide some entertaining moments. There were some 'surprises' this week, although, they aren't surprises when we already know they're going to happen.

So, for the hometown visits. What did we learn? Reid's family thought she should marry him to be a part of their contractor business as a designer. Michael has a twin brother who is even less interesting than himself. Kiptyn's family is a bunch of pretentious snobs. Jesse's family is "toast" ... if you've seen My Big, Fat, Greek Wedding, you'll know what I mean. As for Wes? His band got a ton of airtime and his mother clearly doesn't know her son very well because she told Jillian that he is a 'straight-up, honest guy'. Have they met? Apparently not.

As we knew from last week, Jake flies to Austin to tell Jillian about Wes' girlfriend. So, he just happened to fly to Austin and call Tanner, of all people, to make sure he's doing the right thing, and we're supposed to believe he just did this all on his own? As was revealed in an interview, Jake supposedly approached the producers about getting one more chance to speak to Jillian. At first, they decline, but when he explains he wants to warn her about Wes, they agree to let him. If you believe he did it all on his own, you're an idiot.

The question would be if Jillian would believe Jake or Wes. I don't think it matters. The producers will get her to keep Wes around as long as they can to add some drama to the boring season. They have to do something to get viewers to watch, right? After the weakest, and most awkward, television argument ever, Jake left and Jillian & Wes did some whiny banter before going to see Wes' family. Of course, they don't show her saying who she believes. Come on, you know she knows! I just think she is halfway interested in a couple guys and what's the harm of keeping the "bad boy" around to create some drama for the viewers. If anyone buys that this guy actually thinks he is a "bad liar" and

Then, another "surprise" ... Ed is back! He 're=prioritized' and realized that being on a television dating show was more important than his job. Don't get me wrong, I liked Ed. I just lost any respect I had for the guy when he did this. Last time I checked, it's pretty important these days to make sure that you keep your job. Anyone else think this was planned? Yeah, looks that way to me too. Regardless, Jillian tells Ed to come to the Rose Ceremony and she'd make her decision there.

At the rose ceremony, roses were given to Reid, Kiptyn, Ed, and Wes. What a surprise. At least we know the Wes will be elimination on Monday night's episode. Also, the commercials for the show have already shown us Wes telling Jillian he has a girlfriend. Can't wait to see what she thinks of him being an ass on television to sell CDs.

Well, in this case it was an arm and a leg for the cell phones and guns that four Somali men allegedly stole. That's right. The men were found guilty of theft and therefore they each had one arm and one leg amputated.

"We have convicted them of theft, so they deserve to have their arms and legs amputated," said Sheik Abdul Haq, the al-Shabab judge in the capital, Mogadishu.

The U.S. considers Al-Shabab a terrorist group with links to Al Qaeda, a claim that Al-Shabab vehemently denies. The group, which controls much of Somalia, is trying to drive out the government and replace it with a strict form of Islam.

"These sentences were ordered by a sham al-Shabab court with no due process or guarantees of fairness," said Tawanda Hondora, Amnesty International's Africa deputy director. Amnesty International had appealed to Al-Shabab to not carry out the sentence but obviously that fell on deaf ears.

Am I the only person who finds this disgusting? I cannot imagine why any rational person would want to live under this kind of system. There's the catch though ... these are NOT rational people.

I have to say, I'm not sure how I feel about the Top 14 group number. I know Tyce D'Orio is a great jazz choreographer but for me, it is his Broadway numbers that are his bread and butter. I thought the 'picture frame' prop was interesting but there were so many people doing so many different things simultaneously that I couldn't focus on anything. Maybe if I watch it a few more times it will grow on me. But I doubt that.

As for the results, I have to say I was really shocked by one of the Bottom 3 couples. It's one of the couples I thought might actually get to the Top 10 without ever being in the Bottom 3. So here we go ...

First up to hear their fates were Carla & Vitolio and Evan & Randi. It was no surprise when Cat said that one couple would be safe and the other dancing for their lives in the competition. After watching the clips from last night, it was revealed that Evan & Randi were ... SAFE! Something tells me that this couple is right up at the top of the standings. It was no shock to me to see Carla & Vitolio in the bottom. In four weeks of live shows, both of them had now been in the Bottom 3 for three of the four weeks.

Next up were Jeanette & Brandon, Kayla & Kupono and Melissa & Ade. First to be sent to safety was Jeanette & Brandon. Again, it was not surprising when Cat revealed that Kayla & Kupono would once again be dancing to stay in the competition. Mia made it clear that she was shocked to see them in the Bottom 3 again. I have to say I don't think it is Kayla's fault they're in danger of leaving.

Lastly, the final two couples, Kaitlyn & Jason and Jeanine & Phillip, were brought out to hear their fates. I was shocked to hear that Jeanine & Phillip were in the Bottom 3! As Mary pointed out, it was weird that they'd gotten through Broadway and Ballroom without being in the Bottom but they do Hip Hop (Phillip's genre) and they end up there. The great part about this is that at least we get to see them do solos on their own styles for the first time.

The solos were a bit anti-climatic. Jeanine was phenomenal and Phillip was quite strong, but those were the only highlights. Vitolio and Kupono did dreadful solos. Neither one of them were at the caliber necessary to survive on this show. Still, I thought Kupono was slightly better. Kayla really could have done more with her solo. We've already seen her do awesome solos, so we know she is capable of it. Carla was a major disappointment. She was the first soloist and I already knew she'd probably be cut.

In the end, Carla and Vitolio finally got cut from the competition. To be honest, Vitolio should have been sent home in week 1, so at least he managed to last 3 more weeks.

As y'all probably noticed, I've adopted a new name for the blog. Well, I'm "trying it on" as Carrie Bradshaw would say. Of all the suggestions and the ideas from my own head, this is the one that really jumped out at me.

And no, I can't take the credit for this one.

Well, I could. But then Gooster might try to hunt me down.

Hmmm ... Maybe I should then! That might be fun.

If you look down on my blog list, you'll see his name on there. His blog is definitely worth checking out. Be forewarned though, if you're adverse to seeing nudity or reading about sex or gay issues, it's not the blog for you.

Back to the name ... what do y'all think?

Is it just me or are we seeing a lot of stories about idiotic behavior from teachers?

The first one I read about tonight was a North California elementary school teacher named Crystal Defanti, who sent her students home for the summer with a video of class memories for them to enjoy. Dumbass should have thought to watch the DVD before giving it to the students. Had she done that, she'd have caught a huge mistake she made.

The DVD contained 6 seconds of her having sex on her couch!

Initially, the Sacramento area school sent a letter home to parents asking them to return the DVDs, but then switched to asking them just to destroy them. No word on any kind of punishment for the bonehead teacher. What would y'all suggest?

The second teacher was a Yakima, Wash., woman named Sue Graham who decided to send a 5-year-old student home with a surprise in his backpack.

Feces! That's right, the woman put a plastic bag containing poop with a note that read, "This little turd was found on the floor in my room." The child was moved out of her classroom following the incident.

Initially, the district had said that "appropriate action" was taken against the longtime teacher but KIMA-TV had requested public disclosure of the incident. A letter sent to the teacher in May was released by the school. In the letter, the teacher was warned that similar behavior in the future will result in disciplinary action, including termination.

Wait, does that mean she wasn't punished? If all she got was a warning letter, I don't see how that is "appropriate actions" being taken.

Seems to me these two are in the wrong line of work.

Meet Asia Thomas from Dallas, Texas. Apparently, she got thirsty. So thirsty in fact that she took her three children to the Lakewood Landing bar in Old East Dallas. No, she didn't bring her kids into the bar.

She left them in the car!


The kids were left in the car for at least 45 minutes while their mother was knocking back cocktails with friends. Fortunately it was at night and wasn't as hot as it would have been in the daytime.

How stupid can someone be to leave their three children (ages 6mos-4yrs) in their car while they party it up in a bar? I understand she is 23 and probably not a competent mother, but common sense should tell you that this is a bad idea.

I have to say that this season may be the most talented season from top to bottom. Normally, we'd see some dancers who don't perform live as well as they did during the auditions. This season, I think it is more a matter of taste than a matter of talent. At times, all the dancers have shown brilliance on the live show, but as they say ... someone must go again this week.

Before the dancing even began, Mia had something to say. She was asked what it was that she wanted to let everyone know and I had a feeling I knew what it was. Back during the audition process, she let her feelings about Brandon abundantly clear. She was NOT impressed with him. I think it was more that there had been this huge buildup throughout the year about his talent and he was doing just enough to get through but not doing anything really, really special. As Mia said, those who teachers see the most promise in tend to be the toughest on those individuals. Without naming any names, Mia announced that her opinion about a person on the show had changed. Well Mia, I'm still not terribly impressed.

Jeanette & Brandon - Cha-Cha w/ Jean-Marc & Frances - Jeanette is a salsa dancer so she should be right at home doing the Cha-Cha and she was! I thought she was incredible but Brandon just wasn't up to her level. I know the judges were impressed with his performance, but I just haven't seen a reason to root for him. Just because someone is a wonderful dancer does not mean they will be able to do well in the competition. This is America's favorite dancer ... not necessarily the best dancer. I'd like to see what Brandon does in a solo. I think they could end up in the Bottom 3 this week.

Kayla & Kupono - Contemporary w/ Sonya - I like that Sonya has gotten back to her "darker" side of choreographing. Kayla was pulling away from Death while Kupono is trying to pull her towards it. Kayla was probably more amazing in this performance than in any one so far, and that is saying something. Kupono's problem is that I didn't notice him all the much. Even when he was lifting her, my eyes were focused on Kayla. Sorry Nigel, Kupono is not the "new man" that you thought he was. They'll probably be in the Bottom 3 and Kupono may end up going home.

Randi & Evan - Broadway w/ Joey Dowling - Joey is new to the show and it surprised me that Tyce wasn't choreographing the routine. The pair danced a number from the hit show Sweet Charity, which was the legendary Bob Fosse's directorial debut on Broadway. The routine was very much inspired by the "Mod" style and, despite Nigel's comments, was PERFECT for Evan! All I can say is that his character was extremely difficult and he never broke it. Also, Randi was extremely good, even if not her best. They SHOULD be safe.

Kaitlyn & Jason - Pop Jazz w/ Brian Freidman - Um, this was weird. I dig Brian's stuff normally but I just didn't care for this. Kaitlyn was an alien who destroyed Earth and is looking to impregnate Jason. They've been in the Bottom 3 the past 2 weeks and they didn't need something the viewers wouldn't get. I hope they make it to next week but I wouldn't be shocked to see them in danger again.

Jeanine & Phillip - Hip Hop w/ Napoleon & Tabita aka. Nappie Tabs - I think this is easily the best hip hop routine this season and quite possibly, in the entire series. The pair were bound together by a length of chain to demonstrate how each couple on the show needs to work as a pair. I must admit I was nervous about the chain but they coped with it extremely well. These two are one of the two best couples on this show! They should be safe.

Melissa & Ade - Pas de Deux w/ Thordal Christensen - This is the first time this classic ballet style or Thordal have been on the show. The two danced the famous love scene from Romeo & Juliet and I have to say, Melissa was absolutely exquisite. This was her lifelong dream and she was a dream in the role. I'm not a fan of Ade. I didn't believe it from him. I think maybe it is his personality I just don't like. Someone needs to tell him to get that damn pick out of his hair during the video packages. I still think they'll be safe. I'm hoping it is Melissa they are voting for and not Ade. I'd hate to see him even make the finals.

Carla & Vitolio - Quick Step w/ Jean-Marc & Frances - Let me start by saying that I am a huge fan of Jean-Marc's choreography. I think the problem with this performance is that neither person is a ballroom dancer. They've both been in the Bottom 3 twice and I am afraid they'll be there again.

My Bottom Three

Carla & Vitolio
Kayla & Kupono
Kaitlyn & Jason

I think it will be the same couples who've been in the Bottom 3 a lot already. I think the viewers have already decided who their favorites are. I think from this grouping, it should be Carla and Vitolio going home this week. Interesting to see that it is the Contemporary dancers who seem to be finding their way into the Bottom 3 week after week.

The producers of the show also made an announcement in order to fill the extra time. They've created the Dizzy Feet Foundation (note: Nigel's Twitter name is dizzyfeet) which will help kids have access to classes and schools that normally wouldn't have the opportunity. Debi Allen, Carrie Ann Inaba and many others are involved. What made me choke was that Miley Cyrus is on the steering committee! She doesn't dance! Hell, she can barely sing! Oh, and Katie Holmes is involved and later in the season, we will be forced to watch her dance. Lord, help us.

Well, I know that I have been slacking the past week on my blogging. I apologize to anyone who has been visiting and seeing no new posting. That will change, I assure you. For those who don't know, we lost my grandmother Friday morning around 1:30am and while I was mentally prepared for it, you can't be totally emotionally ready for it. In fact, just last night I went to call her without thinking. So of course, I had a bit of a breakdown but IMO, that is healthy.

I talked to my mother yesterday to hear about the funeral. Everything was beautiful, just as if my grandmother was controlling the weather and traffic. It had rained while everyone was in the church but when they went to go to the cemetery, the sun came out. I'm just glad my Meme is no longer suffering. She was ready to go but I'm not sure how many of us were ready to let her go.

I know I haven't mentioned my parents much in the blog ... I don't really speak to them much. As I mentioned back around Mother's Day, it's just healthier for me not to have her in my life. I've given her kind of a "get out of jail free" card because of my grandmother's passing but that was in serious jeopardy once I found out some things regarding my grandmother's belongings.

Several years ago, my grandmother and I discussed her wishes for after she'd gone. Originally, she'd said that my mother would give people things they wanted. Last December we talked about it again when I made my last trip to see. We'd put it off as long as we could. I hate saying this, but I was her favorite grandchild. I was also my grandfather's. Mostly it was just because I was the one who wanted to spend a lot of time at their house and always checked on her and visited my grandfather in the nursing home before he passed. It's a difficult position to be in but it's one I learned to live with.

It also means that I was the one who have the unenviable task of discussing what would happen to certain items. To be honest, out of the grandkids only myself and one cousin really would be taking anything. My cousin told me that my mother had made the decision to just let whomever take whatever they wanted. I knew it was because she didn't want to have to deal with anything like packing, sorting, etc., because it would be too difficult. I'm glad that I was able to convince her that other people already promised my grandmother that they would do all for my mom because we knew she would be a basketcase.

I'm glad that I will be able to have certain things of hers and my grandfather's. Of course, I'd rather have them around more.

On a side note ... Another reason I hadn't posted much is because I am putting together a blogject (yes, I made that word up!), which I am hoping will become a series of blog postings. It will also help me get back to the objective I had when I started this blog; healing. So, be looking for that soon!