It was the guy’s turn to have it out on American Idol and a big improvement over last night already, and I’m only one performance in.

These are my MAC notes as I watched:

Lee DeWyze is up first and I liked the rock/folk guitar vibe he put on that song. It was exactly the kind of up tempo fun I wanted last night and, other then Crystal, didn’t get on any level. So, nice start!

And we segue right into cutie patootie Alex Lambert, singing Trouble. Which made me cringe a little, as it’s been done already. This season. Alex. And while it wasn’t profound or water cooler chat worthy, it was a nice fit for his voice, and he seemed more confident about the choice. He’s still a cutie patootie who can stick around for another week.

OMG. So Tim Urban is really going to test just how devoted America is to keeping the Jonas Bro hair guy regardless of any actual singing talent. Whatsoever. By singing Jeff Buckley’s Hallelujah. Tim. Did you NOT see my lovely woodland forest creature sing this during the David Cook season? Where you absent that day? Because, honestly, you wanna talk MOMENTS? It was the high point of Jason Castro’s entire season. And that is the thing you want to deliver to us this evening? Sigh. So, I listen. And, okay. He doesn’t suck. And for him, this is high praise. I wasn’t on the same love train as the rest of the judgery, but I think that was mostly explained as vast relief of the lack of complete suckage. Especially on this song. So, golf clap, Tim Urban. But don’t mess with the Castro again.

So now, on the heels of Tim, my Sure Thing for going home this week, which apparently ain’t gonna happen now (sigh) we get Andrew Garcia, who, two weeks in, should have been enjoying the comfort of being the shoo in, and instead is teetering on the brink of disaster…and he’s up next. After that. So, keep the love train goin’ is all I’m sayin’ Andrew. Don’t fail me now. He’s going to change up XTina’s Genie in a Bottle, and I’m praying with everything I have that it’s another Abdul Straight Up Moment. Please. Okay, so I was on board with how he led us into the song, but when he got to the chorus, he went straight with it…and my confidence, it began to waver. I’m curious what the judgery will say. Not as strong as it could have been. Wish he’d have changed up the chorus more. It got better at the end…but I’m afraid he’s used up his last chance. We’ll see how the other five do tonight…

So, everyone is bringing the guitars tonight…and I’m likin’ it! Even better, is Casey James bringing his guitar and the cuteness with a Keith Urban song. I don’t even care if he has A Moment. I get three minutes and twenty six seconds of Casey Time. Shhhh, now. And pass the umbrella drinks! Aaaaand, deep, very appreciative sigh. Clearly the most at ease playing and singing together, and that was a lot more honest than I’ve seen from him, far more connected. Dare I say it, a Bowersox Worthy Moment. My joy…it grows. Well done, CJ. (Shut up Randy. Stop harshing my buzz.)

We go right into Aaron Kelly, and it’s all slow and warbly and not in my wheelhouse at all in terms of what I listen to. But he’s adorable and being all poignant and then with the Big Finish and when the kids get done voting for Tim, they’ll spend some time voting for this guy, too. Which means Andrew might want to get really, really nervous right about now…

So, now we’re going to find out what it’s like to go for the superstah moment as Toddrick reaches pretty dang huge going for Queen’s Somebody To Love. This could either carve out his place in this competition, or carve out his place on the Silver Stool of Doom next to my buddy, Andrew. Which will it be… He goes all gospel with it, and…I’m not loving the back up singers being all in this high key — he needed the whole chorus of gospel singers, they were far too lightweight for this duty — which isn’t helping him get everyone into it. But he went for it, and I think he pulled it out, in this case despite the singers. And? Killer sweater, dude. Mostly, bless you for not singing another ballad. Superstah!

Closing the show is Big Mike, in a tailored suit. From the waist up. This Woman’s Work is the song, and we start in a falsetto that scares me a little. Maybe more than a little…but he manages to hang on to it. And then he sinks into the richness of the song and I feel like I did the first time I heard Teddy Pendergrass. Which is to say really, really good. I loved this. And I’m not a fan of this music genre in general, but that sweetness? Was purely made of win.

And you know what I also loved? Up on the Balcony of Boredom, as the other singers watch their hopes slide a bit more deeply into a hole, everyone’s face is all concerned. Except for Casey. He is smiling, and enjoying this, and truly happy to see someone perform and perform well. And that is why I want it to be Crystal, Casey, and the Big Guy in the final three. Siobahn might round that out if it’s a foursome. Or Lee. Can we just move on along to that?

So…sticking around? A lot longer list than the Danger List. In fact, Andrew is almost a sure bet to be outta here tonight and I can’t say I’d go a different way. A shame, I like him. But comparatively? He’s the weak link. And, after Big Mike’s knock it out the park performance, I’m afraid Toddrick might be in danger, as it kind of eclipsed the wave he had going in his direction just before that.

On listening to the playback clips, taking them just for themselves, it was interesting to me. Lee sounded great. Then both Alex and Tim sounded off (and yes, I get it’s out of context somewhat, but I don’t care…it was jarring and discordant to me in this context) and then Andrew sounded shaky, but Casey’s clip was all smooth confidence and goodness. Aaron had a power note, Toddrick was rocking the gospel, and Big Mike was just laying down the law. So…based on that? It would be Alex and Andrew in danger, with Tim knocking on the door. Which won’t be the case at all…but interesting anyway.

Who do you think is heading out? For the guys? For the ladies? Who is your fave? Is Big Mike knocking on Crystal’s door? I think that as a finale showdown could be awesome in terms of mad singing skills. Because Crystal v Casey in the end is going to be decided by who’s bringing the pretty (because we’re shallow like that) but that’s where I see this headed. One of those scenarios. Lee could be the dark horse in there. I don’t think any of the other ladies will hit final two. I just hope it’s not Aaron or Tim there in the last two weeks of the show in the versus Crystal slot. Because we already did that. Last season. And the one before that. Varying on the winner, but still. That needs to stop.

What say you, Blog Babes? After you get done entering this week’s Free (very sweet) Stuff Friday contest (rules in Monday’s blog) come back on over here and give us your DISH!!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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It’s Ladies Night on American Idol. 8 left. Who will go home on Thursday…and who makes it into the Top 12 and the “real” show? Are we still caring?

My MAC notes as I watched…

First up is Katie with Kelly Clarkson’s Breakaway, and wow, the key was way too low and she was really flat, sharp, and all those notes that make your ears hurt. Sorry, Katie. But not good.

Now it’s Siobhan the Quirksters turn. She is an odd little duck, but compelling in her own way. She’s doing The Animal’s House of the Rising Sun, which should be…interesting. But then, what choice for her wouldn’t be, really? Agreed it’s a bit of a slow and ploddy arrangement, but it certainly showcased her madd vocal skillz. So, golf clap, Quirky Siobhan, hearty golf clap!

Care Bear Lacey Brown gets no intro (because we all know she’s going home) and is gonna sing The Story and try to make us caring bears, too. Bears who vote. (And who don’t look at what she’s wearing…what is that? My eyes!) Aaaaand….sorry, L. You are rainbows and buttercups, and it was much better…but still not makin’ my voting fingers twitchy.

Katelyn Epperly is singing Carole King’s I Feel the Earth Move, and after last week, I’m more interested than I would have been before. And it’s not Coldplay. So she has that going for her. She nails the Carole King Look. However, the song sounded really shallow to me. No soul, no guts, no depth. (See: Crystal Bowersox singing…anything.) Generic, nothing new here. Move along. But the hair, that was dead on.

Lots of sleepy and slow tonight…without the wowza. These are 8 girls trying to make The Show. Am I the only one who is waiting for someone to come out and SING? It feels like Peter, Paul & Mary Night. (And if you just asked who they are…then I am officially old as dirt.) What are they thinking?

Didi Benami’s turn…and I hope she pulls it out tonight. She does pull out her guitar and some Fleetwood Mac. My hopes, they are raised. She does Rhiannan that way she does, and it’s all lilty and magically delicious. Not the Big Bang Moment I’m still craving, but good on ya, Didi. That was the sweetness.

Paige Miles is singing Smile, by Charlie Chaplin. And I am moaning Noooooo, by Donna Kauffman. Is she serious?/John McEnroe voice. Yeesh. I was counting on her to bring the rock superstah moment tonight. Denied!! I like her and I think she’s got Chops…but the whole time I listened to this, I kept thinking how sad it was going to sound when she has to sing it after being voted off the show. Yikeys. Squared.

Now Ryan says up next isCrystal Bowersox on the electric guitar with some Tracey Chapman. My gut response upon hearing that was dual. On the one side, I was all dayum, she’ll rock us some Chapman!! But given all the ploddy and slow and sloshy tonight, I was also a bit…really? Cuz Tracey can be a wee ploddy. I’m crossing fingers during this break that she pulls out the Give Me One Reason and slowly, but absolutely, positively, blows the doors off the joint. And? YES!! So, there will be no typing now. I’ll be back in three minutes and twenty six seconds.

Aaaaaand THAT? Is how it’s done, ladies and gentleman. YES, indeedy do. Can we just give her a recording contract right now? Definition of Confidence. Love. It.

All that said, I’m also worried about Crystal’s health. I’m thinking she’s not out of the woods yet with whatever her issue was last week. Immediately on finishing she was sitting down. I like that she’s not angling for any sympathy by discussing it, and has apparently asked to not talk about it, as Ryan is uncustomarily mum and they rocket through the post comments as well. So…here’s hoping you get back to 100%. Because if that was you at any less than 100%, I can’t wait to hear what you’re like when you’re full tilt boogie.

And now we get to close with Lilly Scott singing Patsy Cline? Be still my heart. Relevant, our Patsy? Prolly not. But she’s timeless to me, and I can’t wait to hear what Lilly does with it. She’s doing I Fall To Pieces, which, to be fair, isn’t my favorite and causes Lilly to make some funky faces. It’s a weird arrangement and a bit flat and sharp and doesn’t quite fill me with joy. Fortunately I have this on tape, so I can just rewind and watch Crystal again. Which I believe I will. So, I’m back now and the judgery is talking to Lilly and…whytheface? They liked it? Hunh.

So…going home? Paige, I believe is in the danger zone, as is Lacey despite being better tonight. Katelyn could be there, definitely Katie as well. Easier to say that I think Crystal is safe, and Siobahn. After that? Hard call.

What say you, Blog Babes of the Universe? Are you into it yet? And which guys have you anxious to find out what they’re singing tonight? It’s Casey and Andrew for me. The former because, well, have you seen him? I just want my three minutes and twenty six seconds of screen time, because I’m shallow like that. Pass the umbrella drinks my way! And the latter because I’m dying for him to pull this out. After that, probably Alex, because I’m finding him the Guy Siobahn. And Toddrick. Will he bring the dancing and the singing? WIll be get through an entire show without bringing up Big Mike’s new baby? And, for the love of all that is not the Jonas Brother’s hair, will we finally be sending Tim Urban home? Tune in to find out, then come here for the Morning After Commentary!

Don’t forget to enter this week’s Free Stuff Friday contest. Pretty sweet prize…an early sneak review copy of my June release, SOME LIKE IT SCOT! See Monday’s post for details…then trot right back on over here and DISH!!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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So, on the Oscars…hey Adam Shankman, you did a good job, yes you did. I found them eminently more watchable than usual. Not a big Alec Baldwin fan, but I didn’t loathe him, which was a pleasant surprise, and Steve was deadpan funny as always. Loved that you got LXD on there, even if it was a little long and a lot abstract. And yet, my finger, it only got a little twitchy on the fast forward button. So, a success in my book!

Not a surprise, that Jeff Bridges won Best Actor.. A surprise, how lovely his wife is and that they’ve been married 33 years. That’s 133 in Hollywood Years. Not a surprise, that Mo’Nique won. A surprise, Colin Farrell is in Crazy Heart? How did I not know this. Not a surprise, that Pete Docter won an Oscar (for Up), a surprise, that it took 8 tries. Not a surprise, that Hurt Locker won every award that it did. Surprise, that one of them was Best Director. Yay, Kathryn Bigelow for being the first female director to ever win an Oscar. Not a surprise that it also won for Best Movie. A surprise, and quite a lovely one, in the field of very deserving women, Sandra Bullock took home Best Actress. One night after she accepted, in person, her Razzie, for Worst Actress. I love it when the universe evens things out like this. You go, Sandy!

Then…over on that other race, you know, the Amazing one? Well, the Cute Cowboys found out that trains aren’t always better than taxis and dropped a critical number of spaces, then surprised (me anyway, they apparently knew they’d nail it despite having never done it) by having madd soccer skillz. I think they helped Team Detectives move ahead, then those wacky cops just didn’t do anything to screw that up, and went from last to first. They were so thrilled, you couldn’t help but be happy for them.

It was a tough leg, with scary bungee jumping with teammates other than your own, then having to slam down sauerkraut or hit five soccer targets, and then there was that beer chugging thing, which to be honest, I found unnecessary. I know the racers sign on for whatever, but I never think it should include things that otherwise alter your being. A shot of this or a chug of that is one thing, but that was a lot of beer and it just felt…inappropriate. For any one of a variety of reasons, up to and not limited to…there was no other option in that particular challenge. What if they were the team of recovering addicts from a few seasons ago? I guess they just lose and go home? Or, worse, feel compelled to fall off the wagon after years of hard won sobriety, because there is a million dollars at stake? It’s just the kind of stakes that don’t need to be there, or at least need to be an option challenge. But that’s me.

In other news, I am liking the Team Father/Daughter more. They came in second. Maybe they’ll get more screen time now. Team “Just Jordan”.…now, you tell me, when you look at the two brothers, and that ridiculous backwards hat…which one looks gay to you on first glance? Just askin. But he did do so well with consoling Brandy on their bungee jump when she was clearly purely terrified. Nice job and you’re forgiven for the fashion faux pas. But while I’m glad Cord could bungee and not lose his cowboy hat (hilarious!) I did kinda wish that baseball hat had taken flight.

I found myself feeling bad for Team Miss USA. After a hospital stint, she totally nailed the bungee, neither one of the blondes even screamed, then cramped up on the soccer. While I didn’t need to see her partner getting sick. Several times. I did find myself hoping they weren’t last. They are racing better than expected. Jeff and Jordan, Team Big Brother, however, not so much. They are vastly amusing, though. But did anyone else think that when they came in last, and then Our Phil finally told them they weren’t going home after all, that it was a non-elim leg…that they didn’t exactly look thrilled to still be in it? That was even funnier to me. I don’t know that I root for them, nor did I feel bad that they were last, but losing on a bum taxi ride, which was the only reason they were that far off, never feels right to me, though I know it’s part of the race. And…well, they do bring the funny. So, I don’t want them to win, but I don’t mind another leg.

Now on to the exciting part of any Monday…yes, it’s this week’s Free Stuff Friday announcement. As it happens, someone around here is having a milestone birthday next week. (I know I’m 36, but somehow my driver’s license says I’m almost 14 years older than that. I don’t know how that can be really.) So I want to do something special this week and next to celebrate this inexplicable warp in time. What would you say to winning, oh….an advance review copy of my June 2010 book, the launch book of my new Scots heroes trilogy, SOME LIKE IT SCOT? Well, you can! Just send an email to donna@donnakauffman.com with “I like it Scot!” in the subject line. Winner chosen on Friday from all eligible entries! Good luck!

So, Blog Babes...what did you think of the Oscars? Did your favorite win? Who lost that made you sad? And what the hell was wrong with George Clooney I want to know? Bad shrimp? Who is your emerging favorite on Amazing Race? Team Cute Cowboys for me! You know what to do! DISH!!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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So, on American Idol, America gets it pretty much right. Possibly slightly out of order of how I’d have done it, but close enough. Haely, Michelle, John, and Jermaine go home. Yes, Tim is still there. And yes, Danny Gokey still needs to be stopped. Wow.

Four more go home next week. Anyone want to take some guesses on who?

Over on Survivor, things continue to get interesting. The Villains are still vastly entertaining as Russell goes off to hunt yet another idol and Rob calls him a “hobbit on crack” making me laugh quite merrily. Then Coach has a meltdown of Full Mesnick proportions, and, of all humanoids, it’s Tyson who consoles him. Of course, when he agrees to help steer Coach down the right path, he tells him he might have to say things Coach won’t want to hear, then immediately goes on to list all the things that Coach does that make Tyson crazy. Well, okay, and the rest of us, too. But that was kind of amusing. Followed by Rob giving Coach a very heartfelt speech about how he is in the game and he’s not an outsider, getting all bromance about it…then following up the touching moment by telling Coach to man up for God’s sake and grow a pair. Ha. Rob is made of win. That is all.

Over on the Heroes tribe, they are made of the opposite of win. Twice. And talk turns to getting out Tom and his idol and Colby, who are not one in the same thing at all. Then JT decides he needs Candace to go because keeping Tom is better for him, leading Cirie to get all Cirie on everyone, and back with the program, which then prompts JT to have to choose between Alliance 1 and Alliance 2, and…well, it was a lot strategery about alliances and future strength when tribes merge. And no one ever seems to think about getting rid of the broken toed bump on a log that is Rupert. Is he contributing something we don’t see? I’m just askin. End of the day, or the council, as things may be, JT goes with the Man Alliance.

Yes, it was good to see strategery and I’m not even upset by the move in terms of pure game play, which clearly wrenched JT’s personal code more than he’d have liked as he was near tears at Tribal, and Jeff Probst beat up on Rupert, and James still doesn’t get it, but dayum, show, can we have challenges whereby James has to oil himself up every week? Every. Week. and Jeff loses his patience some more with every other person on the tribe and makes them all feel like douches separately and together, and then the world tilts crazily off its axis…Cirie goes home. Wha? I mean, I know. I get it. But my humorous private interviews….gone. I’m left with what the show thinks passes for clever private interviews. Russell and Parvati. Blarg. At least the latter of the two was blessedly not on the screen much this time. So thank you for that, show. Now bring Cirie right on back here. Right this instant.

Dangit.

Classy exit, though. As always. Still luv huh. Always will. And next week? Yeah, someone else gets hurt. Maybe they need to rethink putting the hard in the hardcore part of their challenges of late.

So…before we get to all the delicious dishness, it’s time to announce who wins the Free Stuff Friday free stuff. But even before that, a Public Service Announcement from me. It looks like the snow has taken a break long enough for me to get out to the post office and FINALLY get all the books mailed out from the last month or so. My apologies for the lengthy time frame, but they’re on the way. And those of you who had a side of chocolate with that… I did not forget!

This week? The winning Blog Babe is Dagmar! Woot! Just send me an email and a few choices from my website bookshelf (in case I’m out of your first choice) along with an address…and I promise to actually get the book to you in the near future!

Exciting Announcement! Next week’s Free Stuff Friday contest will be awarding a Very Special Prize. Tune in Monday for all the details, and the latest Amazing Race MAC!

But right now? Who is going home on Idol next week? Who should go home? What about Survivor? Are you rooting for a tribe, or individual players? Or no one? And what about Amazing Race? Can the Cute Cowboys make it three in a row? These things need to be cleared up. And you can help. So DISH already!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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…and a dive.

So. Not the Week of Improvement that the guys managed to pull of last night.

I was happy to hear that Crystal Bowersox was going to be on, after a medical emergency (rumored to be dealing with a diabetic issue) and was even more thrilled when she came out first and sang like the superstah she is. Lovely opening. Such a natural talent. I luv huh.

Aaaaand…yeah. I should have just ended the evening’s work right here.

Haely came out next and was the completely ridiculous teenager that she is. Which isn’t to say all teenagers are ridiculous. Most aren’t. Like all of the other teens on the show this year. Except for she totally is. And, I’d rather not have to watch or listen to her being one on my tv. I felt bad for her with the judgery, I did. She’s a kid. And it was harsh. But one way to avoid watching that awkwardness again, is to…well, you know what not to do America.

Next was Lacey and…sigh. She was totally My Little Pony With Care Bears On Top. And Simon had it completely right. She is rainbows and unicorns…and I’m all for those. Just not on this show.

So, we’re three in and I want to send two of them home this week already. Not boding well.

Then we get Katie, also a teenager, but not so ridiculous. Major natural ability, and certainly much closer to handling herself on the world stage than Haely, but ultimately, the song showed that while there is a future there for her…I don’t think it’s this year. Don’t want to send her home, but she’s not winning this thing, either.

Didi is up next and my hopes, they rise. I like her. I hope I still feel that way three minutes and twenty six seconds from now. She takes on Lean On Me and gives it her own Norah Jones vibe…except the singer it’s reminding me of is Megan Corkrey. From Idols Past. This is not a good thing. Sigh. She’s not going home, so that’s something. But not a big thing.

Michelle has the chops, so she is going to sing…Creed. Hunh. I’ll just wait to see where this goes. Man, one line in and I’m cringing, y’all. Cring. Ing. She might take this somewhere, but I’d have already changed the station. Now we’re to the chorus and I’m working hard not to hit the FF button. Oh, what the heck. Live boldly.

Lily comes on and I’m hoping she does what Didi did not. I like the guitar…wish she’d picked a different song. Blarg. Only because it’s just been done to death. But she did showcase her voice, maybe a wee bit too much on every. single. line. but overall, definitely upper echelon. Not that this was particularly difficult this week. But I like that she’s different. I like it a lot.

Katelyn is on, singing Coldplay. Playing piano…and I will endeavor not to be bored. But…Coldplay? Sigh. I think Randy isn’t the only grumpy one tonight. Nothing wrong with this, particularly, other than its dirge-like, mind numbing pace, but even beyond that I do not find I care about her as a singer. Sorry. The FF finger, so twitchy!!

Paige, save me. And she goes for Kelly Clarkson. It seemed rushed out of the gate. She can sing. Big. But wow, bad choice in general in terms of inviting the audience in to enjoy it with her. Whereas the last one was too sllllloooooow, this one was too fast to really enjoy it. But she’s not going anywhere.

Closing the show is Shioban the Quirky. And, so, okay..maybe Haley’s not the only ridiculous one. Sigh. Just sing already. Please. Then she comes out and sings Aretha. Yeah. Because that’s young. And relevant. I know she can sing. But yikes. And then I’m all wow, dayum, what a note! Yet… we’re in the shower with Kelly a minute later.

Seriously…show. I’m wanting to like you. But you’re making it hard for me to stay in this relationship.

Tomorow night, I’d like it to be Tim & Jermaine going home, please. And for the girls…well, anyone who isn’t Crystal, Lily, or Paige and I’m good.

What about you? Did you think Lily beat Crystal? Apples/orangey to me, but, in a word, no. But a close second! And Paige could be there if she’d just get past her own song choices. Did the guys blow the girls away? Maybe not blow, but a better success rate for me. But even then….I could winnow this down to ten…heck, eight, tonight, and be very happy. I miss Adam Lambert. I do. I miss having a singer i can’t wait to hear each week. Crystal, save us all. Blog babes? DISH!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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So, last night on American Idol, due to Crystal Bowersox being ill, they changed it up and put the guys on first. What follows is my MAC (Morning After Commentary for those just joining us…) as the show unfolded…

First up, Michael Lynch and dayum, that was niiiice. Smooth, soulful, lovely. I could rewind and watch that again right now, that’s how smooth that was. Huge improve.

John Park brings us some John Mayer. I’m not a fan of Mayer (seriously, John? Shut up.) But Mr. Park also seemed to learn his lesson from last week’s debut. Sounded good with Gravity. Hard to follow Big Mike, especially doing something soulful, but he did a better job than last week. He’s not in the winner’s position yet, but he shouldn’t go home on that performance.

Mmm, Casey. Killer baby blues. And I honestly just like the guy. And btw, John? The first five seconds of this performance was what they meant by authentic. I don’t think this knocks Bo Bice out of the box as Bo has a much bigger bluesy voice, but the electric guitar was a nice touch. I wish his voice had more power. But there are those baby blues. Yeah. He’s not going anywhere.

Alex Lambert is the cuteness and I can identify with his competitive nerves. My youngest always had to do that before every football game and once he did, he was calm and good to go. I hope he’s comfortable up there this week. I can’t imagine performing for the third time in your life on that stage. Wow. And you know what? I like the guy this week. Serious cuteness and a pretty sweet sound, too. Hunh. Who knew? Wow, the guys are really stepping it up this week!

Toddrick Hall decides to take on Tina Turner, which would have had me rolling my eyes, but his humble interview with Ryan pre-sing had me hoping he keeps the improvement trend going tonight. (And what a dancer. Triple threat! I can see why Christina Applegate and Adam Lambert have been hyping this guy now.) And he’s not hard to look at, either. (Pass me the umbrella drink and just get it over with.) What is with the ballads tonight? Possibly not as deeply soulful as say Big Daddy Mike, but he’s trying. Not sure he has enough to be the winner…and agree, go with your strength. Dance. I also think it’s got to be confusing to know to what degree to implement the advice their getting. He honestly tried to do that, and to learn and grow, and for that he gets mad props from me.

Jermaine Sellers is up next. Not quite as humble, our Jermaine, but I wish him well. Singing Marvin Gaye…(why can’t these guys be current? And STOP changing it up so much.) I really think the ones who are struggling are applying too much of every nuance of what the judges say to their performances and losing themselves in the process. Toddrick I hope gets it figured out. Jermaine? Not so much. He’s not a bad singer, he just doesn’t do anything for me. I’d be okay if he goes home this week. Boot #1 of the night for me.

Onto our seventh performer is Andrew Garcia! Yay! Man, I hope he brings it, because I love him. I love his voice. I could listen to him for a long time. Well…not a step forward. He had a few flat notes and I hope he brings his guitar back next week. Pout. I hope he’s back next week, because he was my number one coming into this, but the judgery is right, he’s not really bringing it.

Aaron Kelly is up and he’s also the cuteness. Surprised he went the non-country route. The opening didn’t get me going, maybe he should have infused a little country into it…but he can truly sing. More confident, this week. And there’s the cuteness, so I’m thinking he’s safe.

Tim Urban is up next and…wow. What do you do when you bombed so spectacularly last week, but didn’t go home? Tough being this guy. But, on the other hand, what have you got to lose, really? It could only get better…or get you sent home for reals. He did a better job, but that’s not saying much. Was it enough to stay? Not thinking so. He’s got the same kind of vibe as Alex Lambert, but Lambert has a better grip on his sound and Tim isn’t going to be special enough to stay. So he’s Boot #2 for me tonight. But then, he was last week, too. We’ll see.

Lee Dewyze winds up the show for us, and I liked his backstory about his school years. Motivational and very true. This guy has such an authentic voice…the one I wish Casey had. Needs to work on the flat stuff, which was harsh tonight….but hope he stays around. He hits it right, it will be memorable.

So, tonight for me? Big Mike owned the night in terms of all around performance. Casey made me want to keep liking him. Same with Andrew and Lee. My surprise this week was Alex Lambert. Cutie patootie…and good chops. In the playback at the end of the night, still really got me. I hope Toddrick stays around, and Aaron already will. Beyond that, Tim, Jermaine, and, sadly, John, are the ones in danger for me.

Tonight it’s the ladies and I hope Crystal, as my frontrunner, is back up and running. I also hope the girls bring it like the guys did last night. Could be getting interesting in here!

What did you think? DISH!!

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So, last night on the Bachelor finale, for anyone who has internet access, was probably not a huge surprise. Jake chooses Vienna. And while I know Tenley seems like such a doll and a true sweetheart, you could tell, watching them together, that Jake wasn’t himself with her. He was right in telling her he’d put her on a pedestal and that she was perfect “on paper” but that “thing” you gotta have…he didn’t have. You knew he wanted to, because she was the It Girl, no doubt. But there was this disconnect at the core of it.

Most telling was the boat trip on their last date - even before he tried to awkwardly tell her that things weren’t where they needed to be…my feeling was that after his time with Vienna the day before, he actually felt like he wasn’t being faithful by being with Tenley. He was really uncomfortable. I knew then his decision had been made.

I felt badly how things went initially for Vienna with Jake’s family and I know how badly he felt for kicking things off with her as he did. But, you know, while I agree that she’s definitely not as mature as some of the other women, after awhile, the piling on has really become just as immature. Lighten up with the poor girl and let her have a chance. Sheesh. Given the enormity of all she’s had to handle since the show has started, I actually think she’s handled things pretty darn well. I sure as hell wouldn’t want to be in that kind of situation. And as Jake said, several times, all that matters is that they feel they have it right. And other than being a bit young in dealing with a roomful of catty women, I never saw Vienna as the villain, especially compared to the Loathed Ones of season’s past. There were a few of them in the house this season, too….but the villain wasn’t Vienna.

In fact…the biggest one of all, very annoyingly…is the next Bachelorette. Yeesh! I’m guessing Tenley turned them down, and frankly, just as well. She’s not comfortable enough in her own skin and too conservative in all ways, I think, to handle that kind of “journey.” Gia, on the other hand, might have been fun. But….no. We get Ali.

Yippee.

So, back to not watching for me. It was interesting taking a peek this season, but I think I’ll duck out now. In the meantime, we have Dancing With the Stars heading our way in a few weeks! Once again, an interesting line up. And once again, I have no clue who I will like, root for, or cringe over. Seems like a crazy mix as usual. It will be interesting to see who rises to the top, who becomes a viewer fave, and who we will want to see off the dance floor as soon as possible.

Surprising (to me) Jake is one of the DWTS contestants, which is kinda wild, but might be fun to watch his dorkiness try and dance. I hope that deflects the heat from Vienna and allows her to just root for him and sit on the sidelines for awhile. I like that she’s moving to Dallas and I do hope things work out for them. Will be interesting with him remaining in the spotlight, how that works out.

Other celebs this season on DWTS… Pamela Anderson, Pussycat Doll Nicole Sherzinger, soap stud Alden “eye candy” Turner, Kate (shudder) Gosselin, Shannon Doherty (who could luck out w. Kate being on the show and not be the most hated woman in the room), NFL player Chad Ochocinco, gold medal winner Evan Lysacek (I love this choice!), Reno 911’s Niecy Nash (never watched it, so have no clue who she is), ESPN’s Erin Andrews, and Buzz Aldrin (cool choice…but he’s 80! Don’t go hurtin’ the Moon Man!)

Don’t forget to enter this week’s Free Stuff Friday contest. See Monday’s post for the deets. And tonight they sing again on Idol. I hope we are all more impressed. Right this very second…it’s time to DISH! Are you over the Bachelor? What’s your early take on DWTS lineup? Are we caring about Idols singing?

Tags: Writing by Donna
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Last night on Amazing Race, the show decided to find out just how far it could test the patience and good will of all of the contestants. Results? Pretty damn far.

All of the teams struggled for the most part of the various tasks during their journey through Chile and Argentina. Beautiful, beautiful country, so it was hard to be watching, knowing what Chileans are facing right now.

I’m still not sure I love any of the teams, although a few are starting to climb up in estimation. Which wouldn’t include Team Girlfriends. They started to get on each other’s nerves, but they seem to at least realize that’s not a healthy way to behave. Only dating for 5 months and they go on a race around the world? That’s a little new-relationship dicey anyway.

Team Joe Is The Leader started to get on my nerves a little. I figured his He-Man-Order-My-Wife-Around part would start to emerge at some point, and it did on this leg. But not only did he think that a compass means you don’t have to count steps to know when to change direction, he also face planted off the big wooden polo horse. Twice. His wife, however, had neither of these issues. Which begged the “Gee, it looks like Joe needs to get down off his high horse” response and made me laugh. A lot.

Did you know there is a Team Father/Daughter team on this race? I’m not sure the show does since it rarely gives them screen time. And they seem like good racers with a great relationship, so that would be nice to see a little more of. I liked their second place finish and how dad swapped his beanie for the gaucho’s cowboy hat.

Team Miss USA spent a night in the hospital with food poisoning before running the leg. And while they’re not my fave team, I have to give them props for not only racing, but completing a leg that was fairly taxing both physically and mentally, and with very little sniping or losing of patience.

Team Bro/Dude also did fairly well. I liked Just Jordan’s need to make sure his polo jersey was cute. They did well with the steer roping task, and though the polo tested their patience, they got through that, too.

Team Big Brother needs to learn to Read Their Clue. Even after Joe asked them where the station was, they couldn’t figure out they were bringing their loot to the wrong bandit. But for as frustrating as it all was for them, they sort of just bumble along and seem to laugh at their own ineptness. I thought Jeff’s comment on how they might want to think twice before procreating was funny. Especially since you known darn well they will anyway. Your mileage may vary.

Team Police Detectives... Sigh. I think I know how they got off work long enough to go on this race. Their respective departments were happy to get them off the streets for a while. Wow, they’re really not great. Three legs and I think they’ve come in next to last each time. I’m going to start calling them Team Get Smart. MIssed it by that much!

That leaves Team Mom Lawyers coming in last, who just got that haystack leg they couldn’t get past. They couldn’t get that steer roped no matter how patient they remained, and then the polo game pretty much did them in completely. I felt bad for them and was hoping, as clearly they were, that it was a non-elim leg. No such luck and we say goodbye to the moms.

Winners of the leg? Why Team Cute As Gravy Cowboys, of course! I am starting to like these guys a lot. I loved how tickled they were when they got a fake gold tropy for completing the polo task. These boys like their bright shiny objects, don’t they! Then had to laugh when Cord started to make his acceptance speech. And speaking of our cowboys — you guys think we novelists make up our rough, tough hero names, but I’m here to tell you….we don’t have to! Jet and Cord? Seriously? Come on. But these guys race with common sense, seem to be having a lot of fun, are quick to make fun of themselves, but also seem to have a good sense of when to roll their eyes at their competitors. So far, they’re the fun bunch team for me. And did you see how excited they were about their 10-day Patagonian prize for winning their leg? Certainly more suitable for the two of them than the sailboats they won on the last leg!

Okay, so the Olympics are over. I loved the hockey game, and feel pretty dang good about our silver medal performance! The closing ceremonies were fun, especially loved how they made fun of the non-performing arm of the indoor torch. The highlights were great and I feel like my vacation is over and now I have to go back to my regular life. I will miss you, Olympics!

On to Free Stuff Friday! I’ll be giving away a book from my website bookshelf this week. Alls ya gotta do is send an email to donna@donnakauffman.com with “Now what? I need a book!” in the subject line. I’ll draw a name from the pile and announce it here in Friday’s blog. Good luck!

But right after you enter, come back here and DISH! Are you watching the Race? Does it seem like Phil’s eyebrow has gone mysteriously quiet. Where are the pops, Phil!? Who is your favorite team? Has anyone seen the movie Valentine’s Day and found it as surprisingly charming as I did? My hopes, they were not high, but I actually enjoyed it. Tonight is the Bachelor finale. I will watch through the fingers of the hands that will be covering my eyes. Chris assures us its the most romantic ever and that Jake is happy… I wonder about this. But will be checking it out. So, is it Tenley or Vienna? I don’t even know who to root for…so I won’t. Are you?

DISH!!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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I was speaking at a book club meeting last night (best group ever!) and so only got as far as finding out who got booted from Idol. And that was…interesting.

On the girls side...Janell goes home and Katie’s look of terror changes to one of happy relief. Then ARod gets the bad news and looks like she wants to cut a bitch. Yikes, Ash, you might work on that whole gracious loser thing. She had such a diva attitude, I wasn’t upset that she got the axe despite there being worse singers left in the bunch.

Then it was the guys turn…Tim Urban looked beyond stunned (join the crowd, Tim!) when he was told to sit down, while Joe Munoz of the actual decent singing voice had to make his final walk to the stage. So, clearly we’re not judging on talent already. And then poor Alex Lambert looked like he was going to stroke out while standing next to Tyler “I’m channeling Jim Morrison!”…and, just as with ARod, my dreams came true and they send Tyler home. And, like Ashleigh, he could also take a few lessons in gracious exits as well. (Whining about not getting enough feedback? Really Tyler?)

So, not the most predictable exits, but none of them made me unhappy. Four more go home next week! What did you think of the evictees? Are your faves safe? Who should go next??

On to the free stuff! Lots of entries in this week’s contest, but only one winner. And, this week, that would be? Cindy B!! Congratulations! Send me an email at donna@donnakauffman.com with a few book choices (in case I’m out of your first choice) and an address and your prize will be on its way (if it ever stops snowing! Sheesh with that already!!)

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend. Enjoy the last few days of the Olympics!

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So, it’s kind of a draw for me between Guys and Ladies Nights. I had high hopes but they were dashed pretty early on. Like the girls, there is some talent here, and the song choices weren’t as horrible, and I think the watchability was better in terms of star power, but the delivery wasn’t consistent at all. Listen and don’t watch, and you’ll get what I mean.

I also meant to comment on this last night, but I don’t know if it’s Ellen’s being on the show, or Paula not on the show, or what, but though Simon still doesn’t pull punches (which I’m fine with) he seems to be more in the business of actual constructive criticism this year, truly designed to help, pro and con, instead of just a thumbs up or nasty aside down. I’m enjoying that part already.

And Ellen? Yeah, I’m digging her. She’s direct, not just a happy mouthpiece. It’s clear she truly loves the show and respects the power of it as a career maker, enough that she tells the singers what she really believes, good or bad. Sort of like, you know, you or I would.

Kara is a bit longwinded for me, though Randy seems a teeny bit more cohesive. As a panel, they’re certainly more constructive than the panel was when it was Dawg, Pauler, and Simon. A bit too verbose now, with four articulate speakers, but overall, I think the singers get significantly more helpful feedback than in seasons past, even if it’s more for us viewers to have to slog through.

It’s interesting to me, also, to see the power struggle…well, not struggle, but the seesaw developing between Simon and Ellen. I like that she isn’t afraid to voice her opinion, and in an easygoing way, but still, she speaks up. America generally tends to go with Simon’s flow and I get why…but this is the first time the panel has had someone with Ellen’s separate star power, and her followers are legion and loyal. What’s not to love about her, if you know what I mean. So when she counter punches Simon, in her own nice way, it will be interesting to see who America tends to follow.

Okay, so here are my MAC notes, in order, written as I watched them sing…

Toddrick Hall - agreed he came off like a dancer trying to sing. Too alt with the arrangement. I liked watching him more than listening to him. Hope he sticks around, because he can do both.

Aaron Kelly is next. I’m not big follower of country, so I’m the first to say I’m not a good judge of the genre. But as a singer, it was just passable for me, at best. Clearly, given the judges reaction, I have no clue what I’m saying.

Jermaine Sellers: I want to like this guy. I get that he has chops. However, I was bored ten seconds in. Even when he did take off, I wasn’t really feeling it. It wasn’t the kind of song that pulled me in to the groove of it. Or maybe I’m just in a mood. I dunno.

Tim Urban…well, Simon kind of said it all here. Yikes. And yet, truth. Three notes in and I’m not thinking he’s the best replacement choice for Chris Golightly (who was axed when he failed to reveal a recent contract he was involved in. Though concluded right before his audition, they are still required to list their contractual history and he didn’t report it. Big ooops, Chris, big oops.) Not sure who I’d have picked, the auditions are a blur now…but, sorry Tim. Your stay, I fear it is short.

Joe Munoz has a lovely enough voice, but again, a nice ballad. Not a showstopper and not something you’ll be talking about the next day. Only noticeable tonight because it was less bad than the two that preceded it. Again, Simon Says truth.

Tyler Grady...like listening to him, but though I’m okay with the 70’s thing, he’s hard to watch for me. And he tackles American Woman, which, when I heard that was his song choice, made me cringe as it’s been done on the show and done well. And, as feared, though he does the right things with changing it up a little, his vocals don’t back it up. Michael and Bo both outdid him on this. Easily. Nice try, though.

So, come on Lee Dewyze. Do Something. Save this disappointing night for me. A bit shaky, which strikes as mostly nerves. Because otherwise he seems the most natural singer so far tonight, much like Crystal Bowersox was last night. Very in tune with who he is as a performer. I hope he can get the voice under control. I’d like to see him stick around.

John Park is the cuteness about Shania Twain, then sings God Loves The Child, which…really? Whytheface with the song choices? And, my opinion? It does not change as he begins to sing. And guy has madd range. But seriously, John? Go for FUN. And…um….current. Just sayin’. Again, Simon = truth. Sadly. I hope he sticks around and figures his stuff out.

Big Mike aka New Daddy is up next. Singing Maroon 5… I either forgot he played guitar or had no idea. I think it’s the latter. And wow, Biggie M…horrible song choice. (What were the first three judges listening to? It was limp.) Simon, truth. Mike is charming and has charisma, but he made no impact with this song. At all. Just rushed through it, monotonous tone, nothing noteworthy. Yikes. I had higher hopes. (And careful with the ‘you want some of this?’ stuff. I like you. Let’s keep it that way.)

Alex Lambert. Stinkin’ adorable. But who is this guy? And 19. He’s a baby. I have no idea what he’s singing. I think there’s a voice in there somewhere but I am clueless to what that hot mess is he’s singing is about. Figure it out and do it quickly, Alex. Because? Stinkin’ adorable.

Casey James…now we’re talkin! Do not even think about disappointing me! Urgh with the love song choice. Except I love LOVE his voice. And he’s very (very) easy to watch. Sweet combination. Can’t wait to hear him rock it out. Loved him smiling the whole time. Dayum. Amped up the charisma fo sho. We’ve officially achieved hotness tonight.

Andrew Garcia closes the show, as, in my humble estimation, he absolutely should. Every week. And? One line in and you know you’re in really, really good hands. This guy? Already there. This show is just the tool he needs to make it official. Song choice? Yeah, maybe not the best, but he’s got big chops. You started the night my favorite, and your stock, it has only risen. So good. SO.

Who goes home? Tim Urban, first choice. Then it gets a little trickier. The replay highlights were even more ouchy the second go around. I’m really not sure, since most of them didn’t pull a big night. Almost easier to say who should definitely stay. Casey, Andrew, Lee, for sure. Like with the girls, I could easily chop this down to six in one week and let’s get on with the Top 12 right now.

What do you think? Who is a superstah? Who needs to pack now, reserve a flight home? Don’t forget to enter the contest this week - see Monday’s blog for details. Winner announced tomorrow. But right now? DISH!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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