It’s R&B week on American Idol and Usher is taking his mentor role seriously tonight and it’s all a little bit…too…for me. But at least he’s not just phoning it in.

Siobahn is up first, singing Through the Fire. Not sure I agree w/ Usher about her toning down her quirk. I mean, did Lauper? Did Gaga? I think not. But she tones it down all over the place and goes soft with the lead in…and then sharp. A lotta sharp. Yikes. She gets to her big notes, but to my ears it’s more off than on. Big voice, no doubt, but not really controlling it tonight. Not a good start to the night for me. And the overly calm face was kinda spooky, until you realize it’s because she’s trying really hard not to cry. Then you just feel sorry for her. Hopefully having an off night will be motivational and not crushing. Something she needs to learn at some point, anyway.

And, wow, did we need the backstage part? I mean, it’s good to know they’re there for each other, but enough piling on already. What is it with my shows this week? I already suffered through B/DWTS. (See below.) Drama, tension, fighting, nastiness, and a lot of awkward does not a fun entertainment night make. If I wanted that, I’d watch….all the stuff I don’t watch. Because of that. Come on, shows!

Well thank goodness Casey is up next! Woot, woot, and pass the umbrella drinks early in the evening! Looks like we might need ‘em! Singing Hold On, I’m Comin’. Double woot woot! And he’s clearly, so very clearly, in his element. He’s always been confident, but tonight he was On It. Liked the brass, but the backup singers actually brought the energy down. Wish they’d left it just for him to carry, but it was a very good performance. More comfort soul and good guitar licks. Mmm hmm. Workin for me.

Big Mike…ahhhh. The night keeps getting better. And I agree he can play and sing and make you feel…but I’ll also admit I’m ready for him to pump up the energy and do something other than a ballad. Even Teddy P brought it every once in awhile. That said, it was a beautiful piece. And he has a magnetic presence even simply on a stool with a guitar. Really well done. (And good on ya for consoling Siobahn earlier.) Consistent Top 3 for me.

Didi is up next, and….we’ll see. What Becomes of the Broken-hearted is her choice. I was thinking it would be nice behind a piano. She looked lovely. And sang in all of her Didi-ness kind of way, but it’s not my favorite thing. Then the end was rushed and weird and over the top. What was that? And I get why Ryan wanted her to tell us she sang the song to the guy who dumped her and was the reason why she tried out for the show in the first place, because we’d be sympathetic to that and vote for her after the drubbing she just took…I do get that, he wasn’t trying to be cruel. But yikes, more with the awkward. And given she’d just gotten drubbed, I’m sure it wasn’t the “See? I can TOO do this!” moment she wanted to shove in the guy’s face. Or…maybe that’s just me.

It’s Timmy TIme. Yep, that’s who I think about when I think R&B. Freckle-faced kid. Soul man. He’s singing Anita Baker’s Sweet Love. Usher called him out on the believability factor. His youth is showing. And that didn’t change for me while he sang. Just kind of surface-y song for me. I’m sure the teens and tweens will love it, but given he’s been in the bottom three before, I fear he could be booked on a return trip. Randy nailed it - it had no swag.

Andrew is up. I was hoping the talk with Usher might help him focus and give him the one on one info he really needed to be confident as he moved forward. And it did. Because this? Was my favorite Andrew performance BY FAR. Welcome back, dude. That was awesome. I’m finally glad we kept you around. Whew!

Katie. And Usher. Doing R&B. About like Tim Time. Doing Aretha’s Chain of Fools. I’m not really digging this, but I don’t know what she’d have done regardless. I’m sorry. Good voice, but not buying this song from her. Kinda pervy. And the whole look was weirdness.

Lee is up next and I’m thinking he should do okay this week. Singing Treat Her Like a Lady, which should fit his vocal range just fine. Usher was digging it and he hasn’t that much with the rest. I thought he did a really good job with this. Right in his wheelhouse. Very good job. His confidence visibly improved as he went along, which was fun to see. I think that qualifies as a moment.

Finally….Crystal! Midnight Train to Georgia…on the piano this time around. And her chops? They are just so strong and natural it wouldn’t matter what she played, where she stood, or what she sang. She’s just Got It. Great to see her personality, too. Loved it. My favorite of the night. And I loved that she sang it to her husband. Awww. Smooches.

Aaron closes the show and I have to admit I’m not so excited about this, but…he’s cute. He’s singing Ain’t No Sunshine. I hope he has a moment, but I’ve already had mine. So…he’s adorable. And not going anywhere. Nice close.

All in all, a really good night. Huge improvement over last week, but…yeah. My bottom three? Didi, Tim, and Siobahn this week. Assume Didi is done done. Still loving Mike, Crystal, Casey, and Lee, too, this week. Andrew totally brought it, and Aaron is solid. Meh on Katie, think she’s next in the bottom for me. What say you, Blog Babes?

And now…Bickering With the Stars. I was so put off by the performance show, with the tension, bitchy judges, overly stressed out dancers (thanks to waaaaay too much pressure and criticism from the judges affecting both pro and celeb, and it’s week TWO) I was too bitchy myself when it was all over to want to keep the poison going any further. So…wow. Cut it out judging panel. Lighten up. This is supposed to be a fun family show. That? Not even close. Tom can only do so much with the clever quips.

That said, I loved Niecy, like the vibe between Erin and Maks, think Nicole is a ringer, but one who works so damn hard she has my respect anyway. Evan brought personality, Buzz brought charm, Jake and Shannen worked hard, Bobblehead Pam is in touch with herself, pretty much at all times, literally, Aiden needs to be nice to Edyta, Chad needs someone to cut him a huge freaking break, and Kate really, really needs to get very, very far away from my television screen. Now. Free Tony!

So, who is in the Bottom Two? Pam & Damian. Not Buzz. And not Kate. Cats and dogs, living together. Apocalypse on the horizon. I blame it all on the celeb-aquarium. Then, Yay, Pro Dance! Fun to see Ashley really get the chance to go full out with her return to the show. Fun times. Aaaaand, then that was over. And we’re on to the Haitian dance, which…cue the waterworks. That was so tough and so moving…. Wow. Even the Beach Boys couldn’t bring the sunny back. Aaaand, on from there to depression and red lights and people going home who really don’t deserve to. Good times! Shannen and Mark are in the bottom two and Tony is already planning to get completely schnockered after the show is over. Wow. Life, it is unfair. Shannen goes home, Mark is apparently injured anyway, and everyone is sad, and it’s just too painful to look at her disappointed dad..and why, show, why did you lose all your bright and shineyness this week? Please bring back the fun next week. Look it up if you have to. But…do it.

And, what you can do? Is enter this week’s contest. See Monday’s blog post for all the details! Then? You can join me at the shallow end of the pool, umbrella drinks for everyone! And DISH! Who would you have sent home on DWTS? (I don’t think I need to spell my choice out any further.) Who are you rooting for? I’m not really sure on that show as yet. Mostly rooting for the judges to gain some perspective and for everyone to chillax a little. Over on Idol…whose record would you buy? Who should go home tonight? For me, Crystal and Mike for the win, Casey right there with em. Didi or Tim going home makes the most sense.

Tags: Writing by Donna
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First, woot woot to the WVU Mountaineers for taking down #1 ranked Kentucky and making it to the Final Four!!!. Now they just have to take Duke out for a trip to the Big Game. Should be a tough match up! But I think they’ve got the game. We’ll see come Saturday!

On the Raaaaace last night, we had bunching! Finally! All the teams all left France on the same plane and traveled to the Seychelles, which appeared to have a rather huge airport for what looked to be a tiny (gorgeous!) island. From there, it was first come, first get on a helicopter, to get to the next part of the race. The islands, situated off the east coast of African in the Indian Ocean, are truly stunning. So, whether or not the racers have a good time on this leg, at least the scenery is lovely.

Team USA takes an improbable early lead, followed by Team Dad/Daughter, and Team Just Jordan (whose helicopter was followed by a rainbow. I know. But it’s too easy.) On the second round is Team Cops, Team Bitchy Partners, and, in last place, sob!, Team Cowboy. I hope that last place line up changes and soon!

So, for the detour it’s either get a 100 yr old turtle to hustle it, or hope your ox isn’t broken. (Yes, Colin, I’m looking at you!) It would help, of course, if you follow the rules, and, oh yeah, don’t forget your backpacks. Just sayin. Racers.

Team Whiny Models, way over them. Love the brothers. (Hey, that’s gonna leave a mark!) Felt bad for Dad/Daughter. It’s gonna be tough on that Alaska leg in swim trunks and leggings! But mostly, more Phil in swim trunks, please, show! Woot woot, indeed!! And underwater Phil? HA! Now let’s see Probst do that duty! Team Cops were generally less annoying, Team Bitchy, seriously more so, and Team Cowboy was breaking my heart. However, way to own your mistake and just get on with fixing it. Carol and Brandy. Models. We’re all anonymous unanimous about that, right?

The detour was harder than it had to be (did Team Bitchy Partners just leave their turtle wandering about?) but I really liked the underwater roadblock challenge and the map that was the clue to the pitstop. Cowboys in boardshorts? Comedy gold. Having to swim back to the boat? Not so much.

Team Dad/Daughter came in first, followed by Team Just Jordan! and Team Cops. Team Models and Team Bitchy Partners were next and last, in this (thankfully) non elim leg, were Team Cowboy. So, a little switch up in the line up. Nice to see! Rooting for the Dad/Daughter team and still hanging in there for the Cowboys!

Next week? Malaysia!

Right this very second? Your chance to win a signed book from my website bookshelf in this week’s Free Stuff Friday contest. To enter, just send an email to donna@donnakauffman.com with “Final Four? I want to be the Final One!” in the subject line. One winner will be announced in Friday’s blog. Good luck!

And right after you get done entering, come on back here and DISH! Who is your favorite to win Amazing Race? Are you watching DWTS tonight? Early faves? I think Team Dad/Daughter were my pick, but the lack of backpacks worries me. And DWTS has some strong contenders, but not sure who my personal fave is going to be yet. Team Cheryl/Chad have the early interest for me, though!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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It’s a rainy spring morning here in the nation’s capital where the cherry blossoms are blooming! A perfect day to curl up with a good book. Speaking of which, one of you lucky blog babes out there is going to win a free book this morning!

Thank you to all who entered this week’s Free Stuff Friday contest. Winner receives the book of his or her choice from my website bookshelf…this includes an advance review copy of my upcoming release, SOME LIKE IT SCOT, if so desired!

And this week’s winner? Danny! Woot woot! You just need to email me at donna@donnakauffman.com. with a mailing address and a few title ideas (in case I’m out of your first choice.) Unless you’d like the advance copy, then just let me know that. I do have that in stock! Congratulations and happy reading.

I hope everyone enjoys their weekend. See you back here next week with more MAC and more Free Stuff!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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So, first, on American Idol, to the surprise of absolutely no one, Paige went home. Tim and Katie rounded out the bottom three. No shockers there, either. There was some banshee screaming by Miley which I fast forwarded right the heck past, followed by some winsome whytheface what the hell was that by a Jonas bro and Disney princess…which triggered the fast forward finger before the commercial break preceding it was even over. I had this show done in ten minutes. Given how bad the performance show was this week, that’s about all of my time it warranted anyway.

Which? Left puh-lenty of time to savor another most excellent episode of Survivor. Both tribes had to send someone home. On Heroes, after sending Tom home instead of an injured James last week, and after he showed he was pretty darn agile in the challenge this week….but couldn’t keep up with JT in an impromptu beach race, and, apparently, more importantly, had no idea that when he ate bananas, he was supposed to offer them to the rest of the crowd…ended up being voted out this week. Over Colby. Who had given up, stated as much, and said his good-byes to the group before tribal. Now, I get it. But I don’t. James would have given his bum leg and all of this other extremities to stay in that game. Colby? Not so much. So, I was annoyed. But on the other hand, James would have very likely permanently damaged his leg if he’d stayed, as he was being pretty reckless with that injury. So, for his own sake, probably not a bad deal. However, Colby? Man up, Dude. Man. Up. It’s embarrassing. Also? James has definitely been off his meds or something this season, but he was pretty damn hilarious last night. I loved the beach race vs JT, and didn’t even mind him ripping into Colby - laughing, mind you - at tribal. Which Colby owned. And I appreciated. But when he and JT were leaving the beach and he offered him a banana? I laughed so hard there might have been a small tear. Ha! And HA again. Oh, and Amanda? All new levels of wow. Seriously with the doe eyes and crying. Haven’t you learned anything? At all? Or, you know, matured, since your last venture out here? You can man up right along with Colby.

However…as entertaining (for once) as the Heroes were last night…even better over on the Villain tribe. It was the showdown night between Rob and Russell and I’m hopin’ it’s the first of many. Ah, deliciousness. Now, I have been on the Rob Train since he stepped foot on his first island. And I’m absolutely rooting for him here, too. I was happy he won immunity and was safe. Very. But I will admit that I am very, very much enjoying him butting heads with our little garden gnome, Russell. Say what you will about the guy, but he should have won Samoa, and I was rooting for him there. He deserved it. And I am very happy to see him playing the game hard this season, too. You don’t have to like him to be entertained as all heck by him. And I am! He made one of the boldest moves in Survivor history last night. Rob thinks he’s got the night won, with either Parvati or Russell heading out. And he did. Hands down, he had it figured out coming or going. I like that he’s smart and I so respect his game play. So far, for me deserves the win here, this season.

But I have to admit…in this instance, I was totally pulling for Russell to get one over on him. Just because. It was fun. Come on, admit it! You loved it! I loved the look on Rob’s face as that fourth vote for Parvati went up. Loved Russell giving her the idol at tribal. And going double down with his speech to Coach before he did so, all but guaranteeing him Coach’s undying allegiance as a much needed fourth player in his alliance. That? Was brilliant icing on the cake. The look on Tyson’s face then. HA! Everything about that was made of awesome. And Tyson? Dude. How could you not have figured out that you didn’t have to change your vote? At all. You’d have still been safe and sent one of those two home. You switched up for NO reason. HA! And? Ahahahahahahahahaha. Oh, that was lovely payback for his most annoying previous season. Loved. It. So Tyson essentially votes himself out of the game (buh bye! Don’t let your torch hit you on the way out!) leaving Rob to understand that maybe Russell is already playing in the big leagues right beside him. Setting up one helluva a continuing story in this game. I think this might go down as my favorite season ever. And to think I was going to give it a pass.

Also? Don’t forget to enter this week’s Free Stuff Friday contest. Advance review copy of SOME LIKE IT SCOT is up for grabs is you want it! Check out Monday’s blog post for the details. Winner announced in tomorrow morning’s blog.

In the meantime, oh, let’s do some DISHing, shall we?? I can’t imagine anyone was upset about Paige going home, but what do you think about the theme next week on Idol? R&B with an actual mentor this time - Usher. I’m looking forward. It has to be better than this week. Not that I have any actual real confidence in that statement. And, on Survivor….who were you pulling for at tribal? Are you really upset Tyson left? Are you in your happy place, anticipating a Rob/Russell showdown like I am? Mostly, you know what I’d really love? The two of them teaming up and running this game right into the ground, then going head to head at the final council. Love. That. Best two of all time in a finale showdown. I find it hard to believe that will happen. But a girl can dream. Would you have sent James home? Or Colby? Is ANYone wondering how come Rupert’s name NEVER comes up?? I mean, sure, James has a bum knee, but even then he beat Rupert in the challenge. Come on! And they’re in the same alliance, so that ain’t it. Sacrifice one, or the other, who cares? So, what say you, blog babes? DISH!!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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So, as is quickly pointed out by the judgery on American Idol last night, going home on Week 2 pretty much sucks. Of course, being booted out any week isn’t exactly Good Times, but this week, you go home, you stay home. No tour for you!

No pressure, or anything.

We’re told that this week the 11 remaining singers will take on their choice of any song that has ever been #1 on the Billboard charts. Which have been around for over 100 years. Seems like just yesterday… Or I am officially as old as dirt. Now, this was the good news. The bad news is it’s mentor week time again. Okay, that’s not bad. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed mentors in the past (Smokey Robinson, Dolly Parton, Andrew Lloyd Weber, even Barry Manilow!) But this week, we’re applying a whole new meaning to the term mentor. And that meaning is…it apparently no longer has any. Because it’s Miley Cyrus. All 17 years of life experience that she has. What, Justin Bieber was too busy?

But I try to reach beyond my immediate repulsion of the idea that this kid has any real place telling these other kids (almost all of them older than her) what to do despite her successes, open my mind, think bigger thoughts, be the better woman… Yeah…. Nope. Still repulsed.

Hopefully the performances will cleanse the mental palate.

First up, we get Lee DeWyze. I will spare you the recap of all of the bountiful wisdom they gain from their esteemed mentor and just get on with the singing stuff. He’s singing The Letter by the Box Tops. Good choice. They give him a hard time for not having more stage presence, and that’s a valid point, but I don’t ever think stage performing is going to be his strong suit. I think his voice has a nice, gravelly edge to it and that’s going to have to sell him. I don’t see him suddenly dancing out like Big Mike. He’s not that guy. Except….the performance begins and he totally tries to be that guy. With the tower of brass power aiding and abetting, and back up singers, too, along with with the jacket, black shirt, and medallion he apparently borrowed from Tom Jones’ wardrobe, oh…he goes for it. I’m not sure he found it, but he definitely gave them what they thought they wanted. (How’s that working out for ya?) I was fine with Lee and his guitar, looking like Shaggy from Scooby Do. So what do I know? I know he sounded just fine, I like his voice. I wasn’t super keen on his arrangement. That and the singers, etc, made it kind of nightclubby-cabaret-ish to me. It wasn’t relevant as his previous performances were, in terms of defining him as a recording artist. (Hey, Simon…what I just said!) But, all that said, he’ll be on the tour.

Next we get Paige. Hopefully with recovered vocal chords. Against All Odds by Phil Collins is the song choice. It was off pitch right from the start. And that’s a shame. I was hoping for a Big Recovery week for her, and a stand out performance. Unless she recovers from that opening, it ain’t gonna happen. I know she was trying for that soft/belt-it-out balance, but she’s only anywhere even near on when she’s cutting loose. I fear for her this week. In fact, unless someone else can’t sing at all tonight, that was the knell of death for her.

Oh, Tim, TIm, Tim. Switching it up Freddy Mercury style. Hmm. Just….why? Crazy Little Thing Called Love doesn’t seem like something you’d sing. And of all the diverse advice you and the rest are being given, one consistent comment is we (America = royal we) need to know what kind of recording artist you’d be. This one said…middle Lido Deck, Royal Caribbean. I mean, what was that? I get putting the guitar down and putting one of Ellen’s snazzy jackets on, but that song in particular begged for a fun guitar element, or…something. And not the mosh pit of teen spirit. I’m confused. And not voting for Tim.

And might I just interject that while Miley is actually trying to do her best to offer advice of some kind, her voice is strangely…repellent. I mean, for a singer, it’s a harsh speaking voice that’s really not pleasant on the ears. Odd. And fast-forwardable.

I really need a pick me up. So far, I’m not on anyone’s love train tonight. Next we have Aaron Kelly, who has laryngitis/tonsilitis….and the world’s most adorable crush on Miley Cyrus. Okay, their meeting? Was cuteness rolled up with puppies and Skittles. But what it wasn’t? Was making me want to Vote Aaron. He picks Aerosmith’s I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing, which I’m sure he’ll do fine with, assuming he can sing at all…and a song I am so sick to death of hearing that I’m not sure any rendition could ever get me excited about it again. I do realize that, when you have to pick a song that made it all the way to #1 on the charts, we’re all going to have heard it a time or three or million. It’s just that, even taking that into consideration? Done. To. Death. Emphasis on the road kill. And yet, he does imbue it with his teenager earnestness and even shaky voiced, he did a good job with the song. Comparatively speaking thus far (and this scale, it is small) it was the better performance thus far tonight. Still hating the song choice, but thanks for doing something right with it.

Yay, Crystal is up next. Singing Janis Joplin ~ Bobby McGee. Gee. There’s a huge shock. In fact, I’m kind of surprised she went with something so obvious. She does seem to be changing it up a little, and let’s hope that makes it impressive. She’s impressive, but I’m wanting more from her lately. I was, however, impressed that she took the Miley Moment seriously and had her sign the guitar. You’ve got class, Crystal. Opening notes and I’m already SO on board with this rendition. Not sure she should go screechy all the time, but with Joplin, it’s a fair risk to take. Wow, way to keep the vibe going. I’m digging it. And so is the crowd. I’m still on this magic carpet ride. I worry about her putting the guitar down. A lot. Simon, we think alike once again. Don’t fix what ain’t broke. But if anyone can afford to take the risk one week, it’s probably Crystal. Even if it tanks, she won’t go home on one bad week at that stage of the game.

Big Mike handles Miley well. Literally. He chooses When A Man Loves A Woman and sings her right into a puddle of Big Mike Love, so…I’m thinking this might go well for him. I do think he’s keeping it consistent with what he’s offering. He’s the new millennium Teddy Pendergrass. And I am perfectly okay with that. Ahhh. That was niiice if a little overwrought. Sharp suit, though, big guy. Still Final Three for me.

Andrew is singing Marvin Gaye’s Heard It Through The Grapevine aaand, if rehearsal is any indication, let’s just say he should be really, really happy that Paige sang so badly tonight. Because…not special, my man. Yikes. He puts down the guitar…and slide dangerously into Tim Territory tonight. Not relevant nor who he is as a singer. Thank goodness I’m not the only Andrew fan out there. Make the tour. Just….make the tour. And, oh, I don’t know, bring it. Soon.

Katie takes on Fergie’s Big Girls Don’t Cry, which is the freshest choice so far. She has a soulful voice for how young she is, which makes it hard for this fresh faced teenager. A little pitchy, okay a lot, but it wasn’t a bad song choice. I wish she’d sung it a lot better, she has the chops to sing it better than that….but compared to Paige, she’ll make it through this week.

Woot woot! We now interrupt this program to pass out the trays of umbrella drinks and adjourn to the shallow end of the pool…. Ahhh. Okay, now, Casey James takes his turn. And makes me happy. His song is Huey Lewis (Love!!!) and The Power of Love. And yeah, yeah, he’s not the rock bottom gravel voice of say, Bo Bice, but honestly? I do not care. Sign me up. Take this gig on tour. He brings the fun. And the candy. I’m all for that.

Didi is up next and she’s tackling It’s No Good and let’s hope she brings it. The cello player brought it. Liked that. She gave it her all, but I think she’s someone with an interesting voice who is on the verge of being great, but falls just shy. Maybe with some studio help, it would be truly remarkable. But on stage, this was a little overworked and fell a lot short for me personally. Shouldn’t go home, but not winning this thing.

Siobhan, rocking the mohawk and the deep quirk, and even more of an Amazon than Miley (what was that in rehearsal? It’s like she’s high…and being dressed by the DWTS Stoner Wardrobe Dude. And liking it.) She takes on Stevie’s Superstition, which….hunh. I’ll reserve judgery till I hear what she does. Aaaand….I honestly don’t know what that was. People keep saying female Glambert. Not in my book. She’s got her own book. And I’m not sure where I’d shelve it. A crazy end note does not a superstah make.

So…who goes, who stays? I’m thinking Paige goes, Tim in the bottom with her…and not sure on that third stool, but I don’t think it matters. Sorry, Paige. All in all, one of the worst weeks ever. Just…what was the point of all that? Did we learn anything, class? Not so much.

Tonight, we’re defining the Top 10…and Survivor sends home not one, but two players. Hmmm…. Who should stay, who should go home? Pick your poison. And DISH!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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Last night launched a new season of Dancing With the Stars. Did you watch? Did you cheer? Did you groan? I did all of those things. And I laughed. First, Hi Tom!! So good to have Our Affable Host back. Even better, he’s partnered with a capable co-host in Brooke Burke. She hosted the Rock Star competition show and won this show, which gives an added insight, so I think it’s a good fit. She’s a much more confident hostess than Sam could ever hope to be.

Overall, it was a good night. Not many surprises. Nicole Sherzinger and Evan Lysacek were both good, Buzz Aldrin and Kate Gosselin, not so much. A lot of “could do well with improvement” types that can turn the tide of the show, too. And a few who will probably sink quickly. I miss having Julianne, Lacey, and Kym there as pros, but am happy to see Ashley back. And the new guy, Damian, looks like a pretty good choreographer. A little bummed that Derek once again gets paired with the Sure Thing, so I’m hoping others will surge forward and garner crowd appeal. None of the contestants make me gnash my teeth just by their very presence (no Tom DeLay’s this season) though Kate Gosselin can stop being in my immediate line of vision any day now and I won’t miss her. She’s not all that on the dance floor, so I’m not thinking she’ll be long on the show, either. It will be interesting to see what kind of fan support Buzz might get. For 80, he was giving it his best shot. And Ashley as his partner is quite adorable. I think the pro/am matchups are all good this season.

I hope Aiden the soap opera hunk improves because I’m not in any hurry for that eye candy to take a walk (yes, it’s an umbrella drink season, blog babes! Join me in the shallow end of the pool right off and get cozy!) I thought The Bachelor looked mighty cute, in that mighty morphin’ power ranger kinda way he has about him. Looks pretty sweet in a tux. And rounding out the Eye Candy Report, Evan isn’t hard on the eyes, and neither is Chad Ochocinco, who I think did a great job and has really good chemistry with Cheryl. On the pro side, we get Max, Derek, and the new guy, Damian, too. So, all in all, a nice balance to the Erin Andrews, Nicole Pussycat Doll, and Pamela Anderson’s of the competition. (And speaking of Pamela….was she high? What was that backstage? Endorphin rush?) She’s the only woman I know who can create chemistry with herself.

So, looks to be another entertaining season! Tonight we get 11 Idols singing. The theme this week is #1 Billboard Hits (was supposed to be Teen Idol week…) But instead, they ditched that and got an actual current teen idol as the mentor. Current Teen Idol. Mentor. One of these things is not like the other. And who did they tag? Yeah. Miley Cyrus. (……crickets……) Fortunately, they won’t be singing from her vast music songbook, but still. A mentor? Really? I mean, can you just see her trying to explain to Crystal how she could, you know, like totally improve her performance? Seriously?

So, that could be entertaining as well. I’ll be checking it out…with finger poised on the fast forward button!

Don’t forget to enter this week’s Free Stuff Friday contest. Details in Monday’s blog post. Up for grabs is an advance review copy of my late May release, SOME LIKE IT SCOT. Get your entries in, winner announced on Friday. Hence, you know….the name of the contest.

In the meantime, you need to DISH! Who were you surprised to find you liked more than you’d expected after watching rehearsal clips (Chad and Shannen for me.) And who surprised you by being a better dancer than expected? (Umm……) Or worse? (I thought Erin might be better, Aiden, too.) Are you rooting for anyone yet? Right now, Chad and Cheryl really got my attention in the beginning. I like Chelsea a lot as a choreographer and I think she’s cute with Jake. Yeah, yeah, I hear you groaning….and I care not! Like her or not, I admire how he’s been such a solid supporter for Vienna this entire time. Guy gets brownie points from me. He has her back and she has his. We should all be so fortunate. (Yes, JESSE. I’m looking at you. Wow, dude. Just…no words.) And was that Gia next to Vienna in the audience? Show of hands on who’d have rather watched Gia as the next bachelorette? I’d like to see Shannen make it a week or two, just because it really is cool how much it means to her dad. Very awesome that he could be there to watch, given his medical issues. Mostly I’m hoping someone gives Nicole and Evan a run for their money (Chad!) so it’s not a slam dunk season. What say you, blog babes?

Tags: Writing by Donna
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Good morning, Blog Babes! It’s a rainy, drizzly day here in the nation’s capital, but warm…so there is that. Should bring those cherry blossoms around any second now! And it’s good writing weather. My dogs think it’s good sleeping weather, which means they’re leaving me to play my imaginary literary friends, so this is win-win really!

Last night on Amazing Race, wasn’t so much made of win for a few of the teams. There hasn’t been any bunching points in several legs now, so it’s maybe not quite as exciting as Team Cops stays out in the lead (I want to like them more, but the warm fuzzies just aren’t happening for me with them) and everyone else kind of scrambles around. I did like the tasks through the wine country of France. Just Jordan was entertaining, as was watching all those champagne glasses being stacked on top of each other. I thought Caite and Brent got mighty annoying (not to mention testing the dim bulb limits…wow! (Along with BB Jordan’s bulbiness, I felt my own IQ dropping by the minute and I was just watching!) I would have been happy with a Team Miss USA exit, but it was Jeff/Jordan instead. Not remotely surprising. I did enjoy how they seem to at least go with their particular flow. Was worried that Team Cowboys scenic tour of wine country was going to doom them, so was very happy when they made it through the last challenge quickly and came in fourth. The Duct Tape Solution for Team Dad/Daughter’s tire problem was made of awesome (unless, you know, you’re the rental car agency…) and I was happy to see them continue to do well. Brandy/Carol weren’t as supremely annoying as they’ve been, but the love, it is not returning for me. So we’re down to six teams, with Team Cop keeping a comfortable lead, and Team Caite/Brent on the perennial elimination bubble. I am only okay with one of those things, and it would be the bubble part. I can’t believe I’m actually hoping for bunching, and yet…I am.

Tonight we get the premiere of Dancing WIth the Stars…aaand, I’ll leave it at that until we see what’s shaking. Literally. I am happy that it’s Brooke Burke backstage with the mic this season, because, well, she has to be an improvment, right? Right??

For this week’s Free Stuff Friday Contest just drop an email to donna@donnakauffman.com with “March Madness? I need book madness!” in the subject line. Winner receives a free book from my website bookshelf (and yes, that would include an advance review copy of my May release, SOME LIKE IT SCOT!) I will draw a winner from the entries and announce it in Friday’s blog. Don’t forget to check! There’s a winner or two out there who hasn’t yet claimed their prize. And if you have, and haven’t received your book, please let me know as all prizes have now been sent out and should have reached their destinations.

Well, I am off to play in imaginary Scotland for the day with a half-naked Scot who should be full Monty by the time I’m done writing today. Yes, it’s a tough job (no…no, seriously) but I am ever so thankful I get to be the one to do it! I am working on the next in the upcoming series, launching end of May with SOME LIKE IT SCOT (see contest info above!) and following with this one, which is titled OFF KILTER.

Good luck with the contest this week. But right now? Time to DISH!! Who are you rooting for on the Race? I’m still with Team Cowboy and Team Dad/Daughter. The rest can go home in no particular order, though I’d keep Team Just Jordan around a bit longer than the rest…but then they have to go, too. And who’s watching the NCAA?? Wow, what a tournament so far, huh? Can you believe Kansas went down? And check out Cornell! I don’t have any money tied up in brackets, so I can enjoy the mayhem and daily massacres and be excited about the double digit teams who have made it to the Sweet 16. For me, I’m a WVU fan, so go Mountaineers!!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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But first! I’d like to thank everyone for making my Big 5-0 a Big Deal this week. Thanks for all the notes and emails. Made the big day more fun. Blog Babes Rule! But then, we knew that!

Okay, on to the Free Stuff. We had a ton of entries this week - yay! - but only one can win…and this week’s Special Blog Babe is? Kimberly S!! Woot woot Kimberly! Just send me an email (donna@donnakauffman.com) with a few title selections from my website bookshelf (in case I’m out of your first choice) and a mailing address, and your prize will be on its way!

And speaking of prizes…I have officially, post Snowmaggedon I…and II…..and III…caught up with getting everyone’s prizes in the mail. So, if you’re a Free Stuff Friday winner and your book hasn’t arrived, please email me!

I hope everyone is enjoying spring weather like we’re having here in the DC area. Have a great weekend and I’ll be back here Monday with some Amazing Race MAC and another Free Stuff contest!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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So, it’s time to send someone home on American Idol and the only surprise of the night is that Tim Urban landed in the bottom three and Andrew Garcia didn’t. Now, I happen to like the guy, but given his performances, I would perfectly understand him getting booted, comparatively speaking. I have no idea who is voting for him. Besides me. Yes, I did. Underdogs need love, too. But, honestly, I expected the totals to go something like: Crystal: 10 million; Casey: 9 million; Andrew: 3. So color me surprised that he stayed.

Joining Tim were Paige and Lacey, which was pretty much predictable. As was the growth coming out of Lacey’s head. What was that? Who dresses her? Clowns? In the dark? I really have no idea. Fortunately she no longer has to face the nightmare that clown wardrobe personnel would certainly have to be. Nor do we. Also good, they let her choose which of her performances to reprise. Bad, is the resurrection of Sing For Your Life, which I hate. They didn’t save her, she wasn’t surprised. Buh bye, Lacey.

I would discuss the guest performers (I use that last word quite generously) but am trying to keep this an umbrella-drink-free, family-friendly MAC today. So, David Cook, nice to see you. And I’ll leave it at that.

Today would be your last chance to enter this week’s Free Stuff Friday contest to win a free book from my website bookshelf. Check out Monday’s blog for the details. Then come back here tomorrow and see if you won! In the meantime, your thoughts on tonight’s eviction? Happy? Sad? Terrified that clowns might come to your home and dress you like Lacey? All worthy of thought and discussion. Start…now. DISH!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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And tonight, the show begins. American Idol: The Real Deal. We get a honkin’ big theme with The Rolling Stones songbook. A lot to live up to, but a lot to choose from. What follows are my MAC (Morning After Commentary for the new Blog Babes who are asking….and welcome!) notes, written as I watched the show…

First up is Big Mike. We’re getting a bit of background with each singer tonight and I like how he portrayed his childhood so positively. Even as he talks of his mom’s death, he casts it in the manner of how it inspired him to go on to become the man he is today. Very nice. And the appeal of the big guy grows a bit more. He’s singing Miss You… He definitely has charisma and he does bring energy to the stage. Along with some kinda awkward but somehow endearing dance moves. But it’s a big stage and what could be a subdued song, he instead brings a real R&B vibe to, and me likey! Boy got pipes. Good show opener. Two thumbs up!

Didi Benami is up next. Singing Play With Fire. No guitars yet tonight. Interesting slowed down Jim Morrison-y type version, and she’s doing an okay job with it. I’m not sure I’m in love as it continues. Sort of has an overall ‘one note’ feel to it. But for the direction she decided to take with it, she did a good job. I think it will come down to personal taste. Overall, it’s a performance that should keep her here.

Casey (woot woot!) James is up next. Wait, let me get my umbrella drink. (It’s just Coke Zero. Honest. But with umbrellas, for cuteness.) Ahhh. Okay….now he can sing! Wasn’t sure about his mom at first, but when I got that they are all musicians, it made sense. And I like that James Gang. I do. Pretty sweet, actually. So, far, so good with the family stories. Yay! And double yay - electric guitar, baby! Singing It’s All Over Now... Loved the song, loved his voice, his sound. For him, this kind of performing is very, very effortless, but is truly purely him, which is why I think the judges are a bit dismissive, saying he’s Bar Band Guy. Well, this is one Bar Band Guy whose CD I would buy. It’s comfort music being delivered by a very capable performer. Goes down nice and smooth. Just sayin. I’m glad the judges finally (mostly) got that what he is, is already enough. He stays.

Lacey Brown (I’m trying to stay positive here) is next. And…okay, so I really love her dad. Rainbows, unicorns, and all. Goodbye Ruby Tuesday. Probably the right song choice for her, and the strings are a nice touch. She does the best she can with it. But, it’s the weakest tonight, so far. Sorry, Lacey. This is first bottom two performance for me. (And again…what IS she wearing? Victoria’s Pirate?)

Andrew Garcia…PLEASE, take advantage of the huge gift America gave you last week. I beg you. And, while we’re here, can I just say that I’m liking the positive angle they’re taking with the family background clips. We all have drama of some kind or other, some more than others, so it’s nice to see them focus on the positive thing that influenced each performers turn toward a career in music. I’m liking that a lot this evening. Thank you, show. So, Andrew is taking on Gimme Shelter. Wow, that’s a lot. No guitar, either. And that’s a mighty big stage. I’m scared a little. For Andrew, he does a surprisingly decent job, actually, but will it keep him here? It wasn’t a showstopper and I get why he had to move away from the guitar for a week given the criticism…I just hope that keeps him here.

I interrupt this MAC talk to tell you that I love Mark Valley in Human Target. (Yes, in that order. And yes, another round of umbrella drinks! Service in the shallow end of the pool, please.) I just caught up on the whole season in the past two weeks, and next to Leverage, my favorite new add to the Must Watch list. Move over, Simon Baker. Just sayin.

Katie Stevens… Okay, so this is going to sound cruel, mostly because, well, it is. But I hope she tanks. I do. I know, she’s a kid. I get it. But I want Andrew to stay. So, Katie must go. It’s just math, really. Don’t send hate mail. She’s singing Wild Horses. That might do it. So, she does a good job with it…maybe she should consider a country career. Her deeper, mature-voice-for-a-kid might do her well in that venue. So…the bottom two is still in question. Rats!

Tim Urban is next. He grew up in a family with ten kids. T-E-N. One shower. Think about it. No, really. He now has my complete sympathy, no matter the Jonas Bro hair or the less than brilliant pipes. That you got to where you are, and you appear well fed and well groomed? Good on ya! He’s singing Under My Thumb. With guitar. Kind of sing-songy for Jagger. Jamaican Jagger. Just missing the steel drums. No, really. Jamaican. Tim Urban. That? = Wrong. (I mean, Tim singing about dominating a woman? Possessing her? Really?) But he’s cute, with a great smile, defends the choice well. I don’t see the bottom two in his future. Unfair? Perhaps. Yet, true. Mon.

Siobhan is from Cape Cod. Interesting! And her family makes Tim’s look intimate. Yikes! Quirky family, so you get where she comes from. I’m excited to see what she does. Which is a new thing after the past three performers. So, I’m feeling pretty good. She takes on Painted Black. Oooh. I’m ready! She kind of goes all GaGa Longstocking on us. In a good way. Mostly. When the song picks up, her voice needed to get stronger, and it was still kind of too diction perfect for me. Really nasal. She needed more of that last note (sans the screechy) injected into the chorus. So…not sure how I feel overall. Definitely disagree with the judges. More potential than pay off for me. But lots of potential. And it kept my attention. (She even looked beautiful with the glasses on. They totally worked. It’s so weird. I like it.)

Lee DeWyze is up next. And he takes on my personal, absolute favorite (I know, I’m a geek, but this one is special to me…) Beast of Burden. Take care with this one, dude. Glad he has the guitar. So, he goes all Dave Matthews with it, which is to be expected. I guess. Even as it breaks my heart. It’s just not…that song. Not for me. But I get it. I do. And he does a good job. I mean, it’s not reggae. And yet…dude. You’re killing me. Hard. Crystal? Save me. That’s all I’m sayin.

Paige is up next, and I understand she had laryngitis this week, so I have no idea how she’ll perform. A shame, really. Because it’s a gift for her to be here this week, too, and she does have the pipes. Nice to see at least one person go truly old school Stones. Honky Tonk Woman. Which I’d have seen from Crystal, so this is fun. Wish she felt better. But if she was voiceless as recently as yesterday, that was amazing!

Penultimate performance is Angie by Aaron Kelly. Now, on the one hand, he’s way too young and far too sweet to be singing such an angsty, wrenching song. It’s totally not believable on that scale. And yet, he has that soulful, pure voice that lends itself really well almost despite himself. He’s not my genre of music, but he’s not going anywhere, nor should he. Well done, kid.

And they close with Crystal…because, duh. Singing You Can’t Always Get What You Want….and how perfect is that choice? She has a great deal of confidence with what she does, and she’s naturally pretty reserved, I think, other than when she’s performing, so, to some, that might be seen as cocky, but, like Casey, I just see it as honestly having a good time up there, doing what comes very, very naturally. And that? Was some sweet honesty.

Overall, pretty good Top 12 night. I miss having a Lambert in the competition this year. I mean Adam, btw. It’s really the Dave Matthews Jason Mraz season, which isn’t me. But I am liking these guys well enough and look forward to where we go next. I hope Big Mike doesn’t get lost in the crowd, having gone first. For me, I most enjoyed listening to him, Casey, and Crystal. Siobahn as interesting, but still a bit odd for me. Lee, Didi and Aaron pulled it out well, as did Katie. Leaving Lacey, Andrew, Paige, and Tim on the bubble. For me. We all know Tim’s not going anywhere. So I fear for the other three.

What say you, Blog Babes? Who did you love? Who would you send home? Oh, and don’t forget to enter the contest to win a free book this week. Check out Monday’s blog post for the details. Tune in here tomorrow to see the AI Who Goes Home MAC…but right now? DISH!

Tags: Writing by Donna
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