(43-253) VALIANT

I was going to write this post yesterday, in which case it might have been slightly more timely; but I felt that I had to tell share the finalization of Luis' DJ name first; and I didn't want to miss the opportunity to express my thoughts on "DWTS" with you.

This week on "DWTS," the celebs were asked to pick a song that had personal meaning to them.  Now in case you're unaware, the stars don't typically pick their songs.  It's my understanding that the producers assign them a song.  So allowing them this type of input makes things a little more interesting.  When you add in the fact that the song was supposed to be one that meant something to them and that they had to incorporate the story of why it was important to them in their dance; it proved to be a very powerful and moving show.

Were all of the dances phenomenal?  Of course not.  But there were two outstanding performances and those are the ones that I want to highlight.  According to Dictionary.com the definition of valiant is "1. courageous, intrepid, or stout-hearted; brave 2. marked by bravery or courage: a valiant deed" and this week the effort put forth in the performances of Chris Jericho & Cheryl Burke and Kirstie Alley & Maksim Chmerkovskiy were positively VALIANT!

When Cheryl was partnered with Drew Lachey in season two of "DWTS"  and choreographed their freestyle to "Save a horse ride a cowboy;" I was a fan.  When Cheryl and Emmet Smith performed to "Can't touch this," in season three; I was still on her bandwagon.  But when Cheryl did her self-promoting "What A Feeling" freestyle with Gilles Marini; I wanted to kick her ass.  Pardon my French.  Gilles had been such a fantastic competitor that season; and he should have won the mirror ball trophy, but Cheryl choreographed this lousy freestyle that only showcased HER and he lost.  Ever since then, I have not been a Cheryl fan, BUT this week she redeemed herself (a bit) in my book, when she arranged a dance that did justice to Chris Jericho's  touching story of the loss of  his mother.  Chris (who used his given name of Chris Irvine for that number;) chose "Let it be," and Cheryl's choreography really echoed the sentiments that Chris had shared in his package.
I didn't know anything about Chris, before "DWTS," but I have to say that he's been impressing me since day one; and it's not just because he's a hot tamale.  There's just something about a strong man, who can move his body so precisely and show vulnerability at the same time.  If I had a paddle, (the judges kind of course;)  I would have given them a ten,  for everything that they did and all that they made me feel.

When I wrote "Two Standouts," I sang Kirstie Alley's praises; as well as gushed on and on about why I want, I mean like Maks.  But this week's routine gave me new reasons to love them both.  Let's start out with the fact that Kirstie shared an extraordinarily painful experience with us; in explaining why she had chosen "Over the rainbow" as her song.  I was prepared to be moved, just after hearing her story.  But shortly after the music started, Maks fell and he brought Kirstie down with him.  Maks managed to get up, as did Kirstie; but it was clear that Maks was in pain.  Nonetheless, Maks continued with the dance; which was breathtaking and  they received a score of 21, accompanied by  accolades from the judges.  I think that this particular routine was valiant on two accounts.  One, that Kirstie had the courage to share this very private experience with the audience and have it translated into a dance for the world to see her grief, her pain and her resilience; and two, for Maks to take full responsibility for his fall and apologize for it profusely.

I can honestly say that these two performances are some of the reasons that I'm such a big fan of reality TV.   I'm thoroughly convinced, that not even the best writers could have written scenes with the heart, soul and honesty, that were demonstrated on this week's "Dancing With the Stars."  Lastly, I want to  acknowledge Chris, Cheryl, Kirstie and Maks, because I know from experience who terrifying it can be to expose your real self and your feelings, to the world.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING 

(43-239) Two Standouts

Season twelve of "Dancing With The Stars" began this past Monday; but I didn't get to watch it until today.  As usual there were some contestants that I could do without; but there were two standouts that I thoroughly enjoyed; and will be looking forward to watching week after week.

My first fave came as a big surprise to me.  It's none other than the "Karate Kid" himself; Ralph Macchio.  Ralph is paired up with Karina Smirnoff.  I've had mixed feelings about Karina during past seasons; but I must say that I like her a lot more, now that she's no longer engaged to Maksim  Chmerkovskiy.

My second fave is Kirstie Alley; and I swear that it's not ONLY because she's partnered by  Maksim Chmerkovskiy.  Now before I go on and tell you why I am am pulling for Ralph and Kirstie; I think that it's only fair to acknowledge my "slight" obsession with Maks.

If this isn't your first time at this rodeo, then you probably know that "DWTS" is one of my very, favorite shows; and that the thing that I like best about it, is Maksim Chmerkovskiy!  Maks has been mentioned countless times on "The Bumpy Ride;" so much so, that there's been more than one occasion where I've given my, "this is not becoming an all Maks blog disclaimer."  Some of you may even recall  "The Queen's Big Coup," where I shared the story of how I had come to meet, hug and have my picture taken with the drop dead gorgeous Maks.

Now even thought I absolutely hate how heavy I was in this picture; I'm going to share it again for those of you who've never seen it before; and for others who might like to see it again.     

U turn ahead:  Other than his hairdo, I found  Ralph's performance to be impeccable.  He had moves, he was light on his feet; and he was very entertaining.  I was pleasantly surprised to say the least; and I think he was well deserving of the 24 out of 30 points that he received for his performance of the Fox trot.  Following Ralph with 23 points, was my girl, Kirstie Alley.  First let me say, that for a 60 year old woman, I think that she looks amazing.  She's beautiful, sexy and vivacious; and I think that it takes a great deal of courage for her to go on a dance show when she is so often criticized and harassed about her weight.  Watching Kirstie, I definitely got the impression that she is comfortable in her own skin; and that she knows who she is, for better or for worse.  Her personality was infectious.  She's quirky, and funny, but most of all, she seems REAL, and I admire that; A LOT!   I thought that Kirstie had more rhythm than any of the other female celebrities and she had marvelous chemistry with Maks. 

Some might wonder "How difficult could it be to have chemistry with Maks?"  But I have to tell you that as much as I desire; I mean like him; I have gotten the impression in the past that he was not a fan of "big girls."  Seeing Maks interact and embrace Kirstie for who she is,  has given me hope that when Observational Humorist, Paige Ramos, gets the opportunity to dance the Samba with her partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy; he'll bring it, just like he would if he were dancing with Twiggy. But for now, I'll just have to be content to live vicariously through the effervescent, Kirstie Allie.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING