DWTS Season 19 Week 7 10/27/14 Post Show Video Coverage

Janet: I will be posting the videos as I watch them, which is in order from low to high score. Also, since I have a lot going on in my life, I usually can't watch and comment on every video at once, so my reviews will grow over the next couple of days.

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Michael & Emma (20): It's no surprise that we find our favorite Mr. Waltrip tanking with a familiar last place score, this time a 20 with 5's across the board for his dance:

Overall impression: what a bore! Michael seemed more like a deer in the headlights than a dance partner, and it didn't help that Emma was really strutting her stuff. The comparison between the two was pretty sad. It seems like Michael is a bit surprised to still be on the show. We are too. Where is my antacid? On the positive side, the song chosen is a favorite and a classic! The outfits were great too, particularly Emma's—so cute!! Listening to the judge's comments, I had to laugh with Len, who is just as surprised as we are that Michael is STILL on the show. How could that even happen? Ok, well...Candace Cameron and Bristol Palin are a couple of examples there, blech. And you have to give Michael some credit for recognizing that he really and truly SUCKS. Yeah, I'd say he was overscored. I'd give him a 4.

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Antonio & Cheryl (27): Next in line is the handsome but board-like Antonio, who continues his pattern of barely improving and delivering a lackluster performance:

Overall impression: GREAT opening, awesome visuals and costumes, fantastic song. However, right off the bat, Antonio fails. No rhythm, no chemistry with Cheryl, and he seemed really uncomfortable and unsure of himself. After the dance got underway he relaxed a bit but was still very stiff. On the other hand, holy SMOKIN' BALL O' FIRE, did you see Cheryl?! WOWZERS! Her dress, her choreography and moves...WOOOOO!!!! She was exceptional!! Beautiful lines and extensions, she obviously loved the song and routine very much. I really enjoyed watching her become one with the music, what a sight! It's a shame that Antonio has no talent, because this could have brought the house down! 

The judges views were all on par with my own and I agree with their scoring. Antonio's comment in regards to the fact that he's not really improving, "I'm doing it for the fans" was kind of sad. I was not impressed with his dance at all tonight, but Cheryl was the bomb!

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Tommy & Peta (28): Coming in at just one point above Antonio, Tommy's performance proved that he's a better dancer than Antonio with a routine which was a impressive when you consider that he had to learn two dances this week and he's not a teenager anymore:

Overall impressions: What a fun routine for these two! It was a cute opening with great music. Tommy and Peta looked fantastic as they started up and danced across the stage. I was impressed by Tommy. He isn't a spring chicken and the quickstep had to be a challenge for him, but I felt that he did really well! Nice moves—though a bit slow and stiff here and there—and he had a lot of charisma and style. And Peta so obviously adores Tommy. She guided him through the dance with just the right amount of direction. To me, she looked like Marilyn Monroe in her expressions and glamour. Isn't she a stunner...I have so much respect for Peta. I really enjoyed this dance!

The judges were just as complimentary as I was in regards to Tommy's performance. It was wonderful to hear what they had to say about his dancing, I'm so glad he's making the judges happy too!

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Sadie & Mark (30) When looking over the list of dance scores, I was really disheartened to discover that Sadie's routine garnered not one but two 7's. Being that the Paso doble is one of my favorite dances, I hopped over to YouTube to check out their dance and discover why they didn't do very well this week:

Overall impression: Wow, what a FUN opening, I just loved it!! Sadie's wide-eyed innocent Dorothy appearance was awesome, and the zombie idea for Mark was fantastic! That transition to the red dress mid-dance was so clever! This routine had SO MUCH POTENTIAL!! But yeah, right away I saw a disconnection between the two, and Sadie's lack of polish for the moves. She was off time once in a while and seemed a bit overwhelmed by the choreography and the other dancers. It would have been brilliant if only they'd been able to practice for another week. Maybe this choreography was just a bit too much for Sadie. I think she handled it as well as could be expected, but I agree with the scores.

The judges comments were great to hear, Len nailed it with the comment about the choreography getting in the way of the dance. It did overpower the routine. In Mark's defense, he was right: there was excellent content and yes, they are supposed to entertain the audience. I do think it was too much though. By the way, did you get a chance to see Mark's face? (How could you not?!) WOW!! The makeup and contact lenses were so horrifying!! Anyway, I think the scoring was appropriate.

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Janel & Val (31): Wow, their dance got a 7 and the rest were 8's? What is going on tonight? I was feeling surprised, and a bit confused when I clicked on their video:

Overall impression: Nice opening, good music, great outfits—Val's suit was AMAZING—did you see a close-up when they went upstairs? Lovely fabrics, so beautifully fitted with so much class! Janel's gorgeous and original ensemble was so stunning, sexy and vamp-tastic!! I really enjoyed seeing the opening unfold into dance. Ok, ok, I can see what the problem is going to be here...this is a Viennese Waltz and Janel's outfit is so distracting and minimal, it is just not in keeping with this dance. I loved the lines and smooth flow, but well, all I could do was stare at Janel. *watches again to study the dance more closely* I have to say, I'd give this dance a 9. It's just awesome...but yeah, it's too sultry for a Viennese Waltz if you want to be picky. I will be interested to see if the outfit was the reason they gave her 8s and I'll bet that's why Len gave her a 7.

Regarding the judging remarks, their misgivings seemed reasonable but didn't really justify their low scores. I didn't notice the problem with her arms not continuing a flow all the time...I thought she was great in that department. I was unhappy to miss Len's comment, but I expect he didn't like all the "razz-ma-tazz" and her barely-there attire. I feel they underscored this dance, especially because their remarks didn't reflect a good reason to score 8's and a 7 instead of 9's and an 8.

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Lea & Artem (34): After reading the comments about Lea needing to be more confident with her dancing, I was very curious to see what everyone was talking about:

Overall impression: This was the first video this week to include behind-the-scenes practice sessions, and seeing Lea in tears over her routines was very upsetting to me. It's got to be extremely difficult to expose yourself and to know that the whole world will be able to see this too. I'd really hate that, it's so private. On the other hand, it shows how important her dancing is to Lea, and I just wanted to give her a hug. It was very connecting—who hasn't felt frustrated that way before?

I thought the dance premise was marvelous. The choreography, the music (awesome song and vocals!), the set, the outfits—everything was super. That being said, Lea was nervous and so careful, I could see a stiffness and concern in her that did affect her routine, unfortunately. Had she been more confident with at attitude of attack and conquer, this dance would have likely been a sizzling grand-slam, but I saw worry on her face and, combined with the memory of the practice video, I was holding my breath and crossing my fingers she wouldn't mess up and disappoint herself. The self-fulfilling prophecy is that I think she jinxed her performance by being overly worried. It was very good but it was just a bit stiff and "safe". 

The judges nailed it: the dance lacked the chemistry they usually have. They do need to give themselves a break. I hope that next week they will relax, and smack that puppy right out of the ballpark! :) (Oh, and Julianne and Bruno tumbling to the floor was just too funny!! :D)

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Alfonso & Witney (36): With another high score, I was looking forward to seeing what kind of choroegraphy the stunning Witney came up with this week for Alfonso!

Overall impression: It was wonderful to see another dance featuring a singer, and I liked how she was close enough to be visible while they were dancing, yet not distracting enough to take away from the performance. Alfonso's routine did not overly impress me, however—but it's only because I was thinking about Rick's opinion: a man really doesn't have to do much in some dances, one of which includes the Rumba. In this case, I definitely agree. He did have nice movement, great hip action and extension where it was called for, but mostly it was a dance for the lovely Witney to showcase her talent. I think she did a nice job of bring attention back to Alfonso as much as possible, but it was hard to tear my eyes away. A wonderful performance from both of them though, super job!

I enjoyed watching the judge's responses. They really highlighted why Alfonso should be praised, and I learned a few things to pay attention to as a reviewer. I am not a dancer, but I love to watch, and that being said, I don't know the technical aspects of a dance, so I appreciate learning a thing or too. :)

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Bethany & Derek (39): Holy smoke, what a score!! Nearly perfect, BOO-YAH!!! Do you know how hard it was to resist looking at this dance first?! I was so excited to arrive at the most anticipated performance of the night!!

Overall impression: How cool to see a video with another practice session! I just love to see what's going on before a dance, the nuts and bolts fascinate me to no end. In this case, watching Derek work with Bethany was absolutely riveting. He is so focused and such a force, it would be so hard to be his partner I think, because he demands 110% at all times. I get it, but I can see why Bethany was wilting at times. I loved watching how Derek works on a routine, what a relentless machine! From the scores they garnered, the practice paid off...

OMG this performance literally gave me CHILLS!! INCREDIBLE!!! *standing ovation* Derek does it again with perfection in choreography and explosive music, incredible set dressing with the drummers who moved around the floor as they danced. Insanely fabulous routine with crisp, sharp movement where needed, smooth glides across the floor when called for, an outstanding job every step of the way from my vantage point...WOW WOW WOW!!!! Of course, it doesn't hurt that the Paso is probably my favorite ballroom dance, and Derek always does such a fine job with this one. After all, he is a former IDSF World Youth Latin Champion, and it certainly shows in this routine!

Oh my, Bruno's remarks were just so great and described my feelings exactly! I loved what everyone had to say, but Len was wrong, and corrected by Julianne in regards to them becoming lost in the drummers. They could have gotten lost. They weren't. It was a performance which I will add to my all-time best dances of DWTS. OUTSTANDING!!!

Rick:  Outstanding Review Janet! Really like your format and the posting of the videos. I agree with almost everything with the exception of the comments related to Lea/Artem.

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Team Dances: Behind the Scenes: I was delighted that I got the chance to watch the
sneak peek video!

Overall impressions: It always makes me cringe when a team is picked. Who hasn't felt the horrible sensation of being picked last? I really hate it, but I think picking is necessary because drawing names from a hat could end up being a landslide for one team instead of two sort-of matched teams. I enjoy watching the chaos of getting so many people together for a dance. It can be a mess, but it can also be a remarkable transformation. Once again, it's hard not to focus on Derek. He's such a leader and he's so smart, and is quite good at organizing a team and making sure they focus on the important points. Truly, how could Alfonso's team possibly win, just based on the fact that Derek's led teams many times and Alfonso has not? They did have the right attitude though! I can't wait to watch the dances!

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Team Dances—Creep du Soleil: Wow, what a pleasant surprise!!

Overall impression: Could they have gotten a better song?! OMG I LOVED THEIR OUTFITS!!! Great entry, really fun choreography, and they did very well to lead with 
Tommy and then Peta up front first because she really set the energy and excitement for the routine. Their duet was AWESOME and SO MUCH FUN!! And WAY TO GO Antonio!! That overhead lift was AMAZING!!! Witney and Alfonso were fantastic, their mime moves were really great to watch. Mark and Bethany totally rocked it with their great costumes and super choreography! I was really super impressed by this team dance and I have to admit, I wasn't expecting such an outstanding performance! GREAT JOB TO ALL OF THEM!! :)

I think the judge's comments were fair. They were out of synch, but like I mentioned, I was kind of expecting a nightmare, so being out of synch here and there, who cares?! THEY ROCKED IT!!!

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Team Dances—Itsy Bitsy: Yep, they killed it!

Overall impression: Wow, another performance that gave me chills! Again with the outstanding choreography, spidery touches in all regards and fabulous individual pair solos.

I loved that they put Lea up front, what a confidence builder for her to have the spotlight position! Perfect syched dancing--this is always such fun to watch when it's done well. Great job leading into the pair dances. Of course Derek and Bethany were incredible. Loved the funky hiphop which blended into a tango, complete with crisp, clean movement, which then transformed back to hiphop. So cool. The entry of Val via a flying leap was super, and his dance with Janel was so funky and hot! I liked how they spun out of the shot and we then got to watch Emma and Michael take the stage. He did just fine. Yes, you could see that he made mistakes but they had him in the frame only long enough to show that he was part of the team. And finally, having Lea and Artum finish off the pair duets with their slick duo was perfect with some very nice moves, a cool lift and slide through the legs. Super blend back into the team dance and I just loved them climbing up onto the web at the end. FABULOUS!! I loved this routine so much!

This video does not include the judge commentary so I found that elsewhere to find out what they had to say. I can see why it might have been omitted, since basically everyone said the same thing: GREAT JOB! And I had to laugh because Bruno said they killed it and I'd said the same thing before seeing his remark! Too funny!

DWTS Season 19 Week 7 10/27/14 LIVE COMMENTS BEGIN with Rick/MK LaRue

MK LaRue: First dance of the night Tommy and Peta doing the Quickstep. Gotta say, I'm not a Tommy fan. I think Peta does all the work and Tommy just skates by on her "coattails" so to speak...but for a 76 year old guy, he did ok, but 7's I feel were a bit too generous overall for his performance. I think actually the only reason he is still there is because of the viewers not his overall progress.

Lea and Artem with the Argentine Tango were up next. It was AMAZING!!! Gave me the chills. I think Julianne was so right. They are letting the pressure get to them and that's what's making them lose their chemistry...and can I just say, Bruno falling off his chair with Julianne: HILARIOUS!!!! Haha! Lea needs to take a chill pill and really believe she's awesome because she IS doing great! The only reason they did so bad last week is because they were pushing too hard.

Rick:   Did the judges say that again about Lea and Artem or are you just referring to last week's comments?

Loved the Halloween video where the crew scares everybody! I saw that on YouTube already and it was super funny.

Rick:  You must be East Coast because I will not be getting this for another hour and a half.  I'll try to follow your comments once I see the show.

MK LaRue: Sorry, Rick, I didn't mean to jump ahead of you but up next is Bethany and Derek doing the Pasa Doble (?) I don't think I spelled that right. It was a good dance: dark, intense but honestly, I didn't feel the chemistry I usually see from them. I have to say I found myself agreeing more with Len and Julianne (which I never agree with Len!).

Antonio and Cheryl doing the Viennese Waltz: I'll leave them for Rick. And Rick, I'm so sorry, but I'm also giving you the gruesome task of evaluating Michael and Emma and their Jive...I just can't do it.

Rick:  I won't be able to see the dances until 7 pm my time which is 10pm yours.  I am in the Pacific Time Zone.  So I can't comment for another hour and 10 minutes.  So if you want to.please comment.  And thanks for giving me Waltrip LoL.

MK LaRue: No problem! I will happily give anyone else Waltrip any day! ;-) Janel and Val doing a Viennese Waltz. To me, it was cute. They have good chemistry together and really seem to be good friends. I would say that they did a great job overall and I agree with Julianne. Janel deserves a bit more of a harsh critique because she does do a good job with all of her dances.

Rick:  Anybody would give Waltrip away except for the left turners (NASCAR).  It shocks me that it appears so many watch this show.

Rick's Couple Comments:  
Tommy and Peta: I have to say that was a pretty weak quickstep. Very little content and even with the dumb down version he still didn't show much energy.  I think 7s is over scored to. However, I guess it's ok when you consider his age. Plus, he probably isn't going to be around that much longer. He'll be happy to rest his knees I would think although to hear Peta tell it that's all he's been doing anyway...LOL.

Lea and Artem: I agree with MK, this was a brilliant AT. The theme was right on and it was a great opportunity for Lea to show off those incredible legs. And show off she did. Good, crisp, staccato movements, mature content and great emoting.  She is a very gifted dancer, I just wish she believed that. Scores were ok, although I would have liked to see all 9s.

Bethany and Derek. All I can say is this was the dance of the night. She looked perfect, emoted the theme flawlessly and handled complicated choreography without error.  I know there are some who don't quite connect with Bethany, but I think her improvement is stunning.  She is now the front runner in my opinion. Derek does it again. Scores (39) were right on, Come on Len, take that 10 paddle out of your butt!

Antonio and Cheryl: He's so wooden and tentative. Not strong at all and that's a killer when it comes to a Paso. He also got a little mouthy with the judges regarding performing for the fans.  Over scored in my opinion, all 6s would have been appropriate.

Michael and Emma: If this was a jive, then I'd like to know when the jive became a slow dance.  Just remarkable how bad this guy is. And Michael, no one but NASCAR can believe you are still there. All 5s and I still think it may have been over scored.

Janel and Val: This woman oozes sex appeal.  She looked nasty and she delivered this dance in such a delightfully evil mode . Her musicality, lines and ability to emote are top notch.  Definitely underscored even though I agree there could have been more Viennese Waltz, but then Len always has a problem with the amount of time in hold for this particular dance
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Alphonso and Witney:  I still don't get the love for Alphonso, he's dumpy and lacks any graceful movement whatsoever. He does know the steps, but really, how much does the male have to do in a rumba. However, I couldn't take my eyes of Witney.  She is so incredibly beautiful,  that it takes my breath away. Not sure he deserved all 9s but Witney deserved 11s.

Sadie and Mark: I think the judges were right on regards to this dance. Not one of Mark's better efforts. She is so talented but he didn't really show her strengths at all. Seemed like he tried to hide her with gimmicks  I'd have much rather seen her do a pure Paso without all the smoke and mirrors. Still, I thought she should have gotten 8s.

Team Dances: They were meh to me. Derek's team won, ho hum. Another week and that freaking Waltrip is still around.  He's putting a bad spin on this season and that's a shame because we have 5 couples who are the real deal. He's gotta go next week, right? Tell me he will go next week please...

Your turn Janet.

Janet: Great commentary you two! I'll be giving you my views tomorrow! GREAT FUN READING!!!

Rick's Question: What do you think of the teams for Monday's group dances?

I finally got our blog up and running and right out of the gate, Rick's got a question for me:

Monday night is Halloween at DWTS!

So Janet, what do you think of the teams for Monday's group dances?

Janet: Oh wow, I'd seen the DWTS news story headlines going on about a Halloween episode but I didn't know they would be doing team dances! I'm EXCITED! I really love those, but honestly, the best team experiences are when there are two really strong teams. I do NOT see that happening this week, unfortunately. I mean, come on. Team Creep du Soleil features the strength of Alfonso and Sadie—and they are very good—but the problem is that the team is going to be a disaster because of Antonio and Tommy. Antonio is horrible, and although Tommy is fabulous for his age, unless they are very clever, he won't be able to get that performance polished along with his partner dance. I predict that both of them are going to tank the team dance, and there is no way in the world that Alfonso and Sadie will be able to overcompensate to cover for their faux pas. And let's face it: when's the last time that one of Derek's teams has lost? Um...I can't remember that far back! :D Team Itsy Bitsy is fairly bursting with unstoppable talent which includes our fan favorite Lea, as well as Janel and Bethany! Yes, they are skunked with Michael, but he's the only weak link and they should do just fine. Maybe they can stuff him in a coffin for the entire routine?!

What do YOU think about the team dances?

Rick: I have to agree to a point. Antonio and Tommy will not be able to keep up with the dynamo that is Alphonso/Sadie and that disparity will really stand out, so yes, I think the Bethany team has a better shot. My only concern is that Waltrip is so bad, he could be worse than these two all by himself!

Janet: Oh, you are so mean! :D But you may have a point! I say stuff him in a coffin! He can be set dressing!

Tommy is one smooth operator, but DWTS
is so demanding, he may not be able to keep up!

Rick: WOW, look who's talking about being mean. Although, when you are right you are right Janet. However, I am sure Mr. Hough will somehow find a way to make Waltrip at least passable or maybe hide him and itsy bitsy team will win. So, Bethany's team in a landslide. Also, when you look at the other team, you have to consider that Tommy will probably have problems trying to learn two dances in a week since he can't remember steps from hour to hour and comparing him to his other less challenged partners will really stand out I think. Oh well, I guess I'll just sit back and watch Peta and Witney! There are worse things for a DWTS junkie to do.

Janet: LOL, I agree completely on watching those two ladies! You know, I used to be pretty meh about Peta's looks, but after seeing her year after year, I have changed my feelings and I think she's really stunning and she gets the most wonderful feisty, saucy expressions! She has an unusual look which is so striking. I think she's the best female pro currently on the show. Oh, I get to ask you the next question!

Too Much Fun for YouTube!

DWTS Fiends, UNITE!
If you've landed on this page, you're crazy about Dancing with the Stars! I know I am...maybe a bit too much. I can't help myself, I just love this show! I love to talk about it, I love to write about it, and I've just found out that two people bantering back and forth about this show is so much fun we had to start a team blog! We want YOU to be part of the fun, so please add your comments and we will pull you into the conversation!

The Meeting of Two Like-Minds

Since I don't get network television I have to wait for people to upload videos to YouTube or DailyMotion, but once I get to watch each dance, I can't keep my trap shut! I end up spending a lot of time writing up my impressions on every dance I watch, and sometimes I get some really cool comments. I also enjoy reading what other people have to say.

Michael Waltrip really needs to go home. Really.

That Guy is a HORRIBLE Dancer!!!

So it's Season 19, Week 6 and I winced my way through a particularly gruesome performance by the oh-so-untalented Michael Waltrip and his poor sacrificial lamb, Emma Slater, and left the following review:

Janet's review: Well, it was a nice performance, but unfortunately, poor Michael always looks like he ran into the door on the way out onto the dance floor and he can't remember what he's doing. He wants so BADLY to do well. He's been practicing so hard but he cannot get his routines to look smooth and flowing because from my vantage point, he's not confident nor comfortable with all of the steps. A shame. He has no rhythm at all. :(


I little while later I got an alert that someone had left a comment. It was from a user I'd never noticed before, Rick Barbera:

Rick: This was so over scored. He deserved 6s and that's only because Emma is so good. What a farce. How he overcame the 20s from last week to be safe is just beyond belief. He should have gone in week 2. I still can't believe that many NASCAR fans watch this show. Please vote him off next week and end this travesty.

That comment had me chortling in mirthful glee and I immediately fired back with another in return:

Janet: Couldn't agree more! :)

I rarely get follow-up comments other than a customary +1, so I was surprised to find a YouTube Bell telling me that he'd said something else. 

Tony & Betsey were a great team!

Rick: If he had any class, he would have bowed out when Betsey was voted off. She wasn't going to win, but man did she show improvement. This guy is a joke and just plain creepy. Thanks for your comment Janet.

Laughing in glee, I was delighted to read Rick's response and off we went on a merry discussion which followed over the course of several days... 

Janet: I think dancers have TRIED to bow out in the past but from what I know, they aren't allowed because of contracts they sign. He is a joke, he is creepy, and Betsey WAS so much better in all regards. She had pizzazz, charisma, ability, and she was such fun to watch. And, by the way, I watched Jonathan's routine after this one, and though I thought Jonathan had been just a bit better in previous weeks (really, that would equate to "horrible"), he blew the roof off the joint tonight with his great routine. It's incredible that Jonathan went home and this loser is STILL here. Unbelievable.

Dorothy Hamill got the boot way too early in Season 16!!

Rick: What about Billy Dee in season 18 and Dorothy Hamill in season 16? They left due to injuries and Sara Evans left due to a divorce a few seasons back. Anyway, I guess I was being facetious when I said that regarding bowing out. Plus, it probably wouldn't be fair to Emma at any rate. When you allow voting to be 50% of the score, you grudgingly have to accept that the people have spoken. That's assuming you believe DWTS results. That said, you can't tell me that Janel and Val were actually in jeopardy last night. They have great scores, he's wildly popular and Janel has a million twitter followers dying to get her the Mirror Ball Trophy. I am a Lea Thompson fan (not in small part due to the fact that she is in my age group ;)) but I am impressed with Janel (great presence and dance skills) and Sadie (beyond belief natural talent) also. Yep, I agree, Jonathan deserved another week after all that improvement. I suspect Michael will go next week and Tommy Chong the next. 

Rick has his list of Top 5 dancers

Rick: These are my Top 5—Alfonso, Lea, Janel, Sadie and Bethany. Lea will probably go after Tommy. Not because she can't dance, but I don't think she will get the voting support that the others will garner. Too bad, technically she is the best one out there IMO, and her legs should get 9's all by themselves!

Janet: LOL, we certainly think much the same! I had to laugh...sort of...when I saw that Janel and Val were in jeopardy. The thing is, you just never know with this show--remember Joey Fatone getting the boot 2nd in Season 15? AHHHHHH!!! That's just one example of "LOL, in jeopardy, RIGHT....and then "NO WAY. THEY GOT 86'd!!" I too, am a Lea fan, she's just so awesome, AND in my age group too! I agree with your order, though, lol, you missed poor Antonio in your line-up. I think he's going to go either before or after Tommy. Tommy is such a crowd favorite and ever-so-tasty-but-talentless-Antonio can't dance his way out of a bag, so it's possible Tommy will outlast him...I kind of think Alfonso will win the show, but Bethany has Derek and she's great, Sadie is a natural and a firecracker and has a perfect pro with Mark, and Janel and Val are incredible together. Really a toss-up, isn't it? Lea, I agree, is likely going to fall by the wayside once things start getting serious. Boo, because she rocks and I agree with your assessment! :)

Lea is as lovely as she is talented!

Rick: Ooops, I did miss poor Antonio didn't I? Well, all I can say for him is he is...well...forgettable and tasty is not a word I would use to describe him. Lea, is tasty. I agree, he will probably go before Waltrip and that's a shame. I think Tommy will be almost happy to go, He's got to be tired at this point. Great run though and I can't help but be impressed with his style and sense of humor. I hope Alfonso doesn't win, his dances all look alike to me with the exception of the flamenco. How long can you go with different variations of the Carlton. My money is on Janel to take it but it would make me smile if Sadie pulled it off. I'd be overjoyed if Lea made it to the final three though. It's really nice Janet, to meet another great mind!! LOL

At one point, some guy couldn't restrain himself from a text-bomb (similar to a photo-bomb but without the creepy image) :D:

Thomas: Haha Go waltrip!!!! #NASCARnation

Rick: If Waltrip is the best you got to offer as a dancer, you guys need to stick to left turns!

Janet: LOL, well I don't blame you for not seeing anything delectable in Antonio...personally, his ego is getting in the way of everything, ugh! I don't think he likes being out of his element, which is standing on a pedestal with adoring fan girls swooning around him. That's just so sad. And you are right, Lea IS tasty! She's got it goin' on and she can make fun of herself too. What an awesome, hawt and saucy chickadee! Yes on Tommy likely looking forward to the end of this competition, I'm actually pretty surprised he's still on the show, so grats to him for the long run! Alfonso...he's too smug, in my opinion. I'd prefer someone to win who deserves it and isn't expecting it. I'll push my money into your pile, rooting for Janel to win. She's classy, talented, fun, and I'd love to see her get that trophy. I feel the same for either Bethany or Sadie winning. As the weeks go by, I'll have a stronger opinion as to my final order! *tries to boot Michael out the door* And I totally agree, Rick, it's great fun chatting with a like-mind! *high five*

OK, Janet, Who are your top four picks for this season?

Rick: High Five back at ya! Come on now, you need to make your picks now. It would be to easy if you wait two weeks. Who are your top 4?

Janet: Urgh...well...Alfonso has a groin injury...that could be a game killer for him. If he heals up, he'll win I think. Don't forget that his partner is the "living Barbie Doll", Witney, who is so beautiful and an awesome dancer, I am sure that lots of people will vote for them just because they're KooKoo for Koko Puffs over her! LOL :D 2nd Bethany because she's got Derek in her corner and she's very good. Janel 3rd because she's so polished. Sadie 4th. You know, I have to disagree with you on Alfonso's dances all looking the same. Witney has great choreography and he's doing all kinds of different, super moves. Oh, and btw, I have never watched the show he was in and really didn't even know anything about him--so my opinions are based fairly on his talent, or what I see, anyway. When it comes to Lea, though, she's my fan favorite (OUR fan favorite), and she's also quite the marvelous dancer! :D

Witney is a real-life, dancing Barbie Doll!

Rick: As one of those kookoo for KoKo puffs over Witney, I see what you are saying. She is absolutely drop dead gorgeous and crazy talented. She seems like a sweetheart to, but I am not enamored with his dancing, although I was really impressed with his flamenco. He just looks kind of dumpy to me, so there isn't a graceful appeal that I like to see. I never watched his show either, I am just not a sitcom guy. Don't see Bethany 2nd, I see Janel 2nd and Sadie 3rd. Sadie is quite the natural talent, her performance level is way beyond her years and she's got all that Bible belt vote. Remember Candace Cameron Bure from last season? Bethany will be 4th, even though I think she has been underrated, has a confident presence along with a great body ;). Although, she is the wild card as you pointed out, she has Derek and lots of people just vote for him no matter who his partner is (i.e Amber Riley season 17). And most importantly, Bethany has the twitter votes with over 2 million followers. Your picks are well thought out and more than likely will be spot on. However, still feeling it for my (our) Lea and yes, I did watch her sitcom, Caroline in the City. I'll bet you an hour of watching Witney videos!!

Alfonso is a fine dancer but pales in Witney's dazzle!

Janet: :D :D You know, you DO have a point about Alfonso being kind of "dumpy". You nailed it. There is a slight "shambling mound" quality to that guy. Maybe that's why I'm so impressed by his excellent hoofing! :D I agree with the missing polish though. Hmm. Well, we'll have to see. You have another excellent point with Sadie being natural and having a huge bible belt contingent behind her. It makes a difference, as you well-stated with Candace, who really drove me crazy with her conservative EVERYTHING and inserting religion every time she could. We got it, let's move on! I'm glad that Sadie can display her feelings about religion without forcing it down everyone's throats like Candace did.

(QUE: Janet stumbles off the road into the convoluted land of tangents...)

As for Derek, I'm a hopeless fan and admire him SO MUCH. How can you NOT? He's unbelievably talented, and yet extremely humble and not arrogant. No ego. He even admits going the wrong way for a while before finding himself. I will always give utmost respect to people like Derek. There is no excuse for arrogance and posturing. So yeah, I adore Derek, but to be honest, can you think of anyone on DWTS who IS arrogant? I mean, Maksim used to be but someone bashed a 2x4 upside his head and now he's just so awesome. Cocky, yes, but he recognizes that too much arrogance will get you into trouble, and there really is no BEST at anything. (Oh, and finally, Caroline in the City? Never saw it...hmmm, I may have to check it out!)

Danica was the bomb!!

Rick: I am not saying Alfonso doesn't have skills, I just don't think he should necessarily be the front runner. That voting block for Candace really robbed two deserving contestants from season 18. Danica and Charlie. IMO Danica was the 2nd best female dancer (who can compete with Meryl, the queen, and maybe the best ever of DWTS). Charlie was terrific and really handled difficult routines. Sharna did such a great job with him and should have been rewarded with the finals. They had to almost dumb-down Cameron's dances and even then she didn't get it right. It should have been Meryl, Charlie, Danica and Amy in that order for season 18.

Janet: Oh please don't get me started with last season! * screams bloody murder * Danica WAS AMAZING! Charlie WAS AMAZING...their routines were so incredible...the fact that Candace got to move forward while they were axed...totally MIND BLOWING and so WRONG. Charlie's "Happy" routines is one of my all-time favorites of DWTS. Danica, well, she's as talented a dancer as she is beautiful And again, so talented, so BRILLIANT, and yet, so humble. I bow to her, and you know, Charlie was so cool about getting unfairly booted from the competition. I really thought it would be Meryl and Charlie for first and second, with a Danica or Amy getting 3rd and 4th. James 5th. Amy is like an impossible wonder woman, I'm so happy that she got 2nd, though I would have loved to have seen her win, she was GREAT. Oh, and NeNe should have been kicked right after Candace. She didn't come close to Danica or Charlie. As well, James was an excellent dancer and his routines were usually very good and one of them was just THROUGH THE ROOF!

Rick, who are your favorite pros?
Janet: Hey, you asked me a question, so now I get to ask you one: who are your favorite pros? (they can be previously on the show too) I love Derek, Julianne, Tony, and Karina Smirnoff. Witney is awesome but gosh, I just sit and drool at her because she's so distracting! :D (Who doesn't love eye candy?!)

Derek is not only an exceptional dancer, he's a great man.

Rick: Eye candy is right regarding Witney. Sheesh, I could watch her sleep. Let's face it though, the female pros are all gorgeous. One of the many things I like about dance is it creates in the dancer such a confident air that you are drawn to them. So,yes I love Witney but the Aussie's are pretty damn awesome to, Peta, Sharna and Emma. Jenna Johnson is great. I like Derek for all the reasons you stated (that was confirmed to me last season with Amy Purdy. No one else could have done what they did considering the obstacles) and he is the best, that can't be argued in my opinion. It irritates me when people rag about him for getting partners that can dance as most of their comments are just plain BS.His contestants do well because of him. Mark is really good (loved what he was able to accomplish with Katherine Jenkins in Season 14, my 2nd favorite contestant of all time), along with Val. Have to say, I am really impressed with Artem and what he is doing for Lea (admittedly, he has an awful lot to work with), particularly when you consider this is his first year. The one I'd really like to see back on the show is Tristyn, the Irish guy. He was so patient with his partners (who were not very good) and he seems to have this great sense of humor that has to be invaluable throughout the rigors of this show. Maks I never cared for, always thought he was a bit of a thug until my girl Meryl wrapped him around her little finger and never bought into his immature rantings. She made him into a teddy bear and got him his mirror ball. He did really well with her, but truth be told, she could have won with me as her partner. She was just that good. Never have I seen a contestant with such an ability to emote the theme of the dance. That AT she did in week 4 with Val has got to be the sexiest dance I've ever seen. That double split thing she did was almost orgasmic. Remarkable, out of this world talent and skill. I think she is the best ever. Who's your favorite of all seasons?

Julianne's Samba outfit was MEOWTASTIC!

Janet: I agree with your feelings about dance. It's a wonderful thing to watch. And I simply LOVE watching people blossom through a season, it's a joy to behold, esp when you see the look of disbelief and happiness when they have nailed a routine. To me, it is wonderful to see these famous people in a more vulnerable state. I love to know who they really are. DWTS really gives a nice glimpse this way.

The female pros are like dancing flowers, that's for sure. I think one of my very favorite performance has got to be Julienne and Apollo's Saucy Samba. Their routine was outstanding and her costume just OMG WOWZERS! I LOVED their Paso Doble too, it was sensational. I think they were an incredible pair, very raw and full of passion.

Yes on all the things you said about Derek. I think there are some very fine pros on that show, but Derek is the modern Fred Astaire + Gene Kelly, combined together and then again some. He's got it all. Hilarious when people say he's no good, what a bunch of morons. I expect you are like me, I've watched every season, and he was REALLY GOOD when the show started, and he just got better and better.

What a fabulous pair Maks & Meryl made!

LOVED what you said about Meryl wrapping Maks around her little finger. Completely true, and it was obvious to all including Maks, who couldn't be happier to discover that the way to the mirror ball trophy would be to have a woman who was stronger than he was to keep him going in the right direction. It was an awesome thing to see.

And yes on Meryl NAILING the mood of the dances. She was the best dancer ever on the show, no question there. 

Rick: Charlie's Mary Poppins routine should be a DWTS classic. Absolutely perfect. Amy Purdy's aren't born every day. She is a once in a generation human being. Just maybe the strongest most inspiring person I've ever seen. I thought she'd be around for a couple of weeks and the novelty would wear off and she'd go home. Nope, shows you how wrong I can be. That girl, with no lower legs could dance. She had musicality, technique and an incredible performance quotient. Just one of the most remarkable things I have ever seen. Derek deserves a lot of the credit to be sure and no one and I mean no one else could have pulled it off but him. Big time respect to DH.

What a show Charlie & Sharna put on!

Janet: Oh yes, the Mary Poppins dance! Sad to say, though I loved the dance and I agree it was perfect, I detested the music, I just hated it so much it made my ears bleed! I also hated the animation, it was so hokey in my opinion. :D A total shame because the performance was incredible. Truly, that doesn't mean I wouldn't have given their performance an 11 if I could have! :D Charlie and Sharna were so awesome together. Ooooo, it still pisses me off that he was made the sacrificial lamb!! * GLARE *

LOL, we are two peas in a pod when it comes to Amy Purdy and also in regards to Derek being the only one who had the chops to direct the super-human entity of Amy to the heights that she achieved. Who could have known? I remember being completely STUNNED from the moment I saw her and from that day forward, my jaw would drop in amazement to see the miraculous transformation that happened with each passing week. I can't even wrap my head around it. I cried many times throughout the season when I watched her dance, it just blew me away, and puts a tear in my eye thinking about her now. There's only one Amy Purdy, and how lucky she was to be paired with the almost unbeatable Derek Hough. How wonderful it was to see her being so gentle and encouraging to her. How they worked together and together they truly achieved greatness.

Amy is a real-life Wonder Woman!

Rick: When Amy came out in week 1 and did that cha cha, I just stared in disbelief. What a watershed moment. I knew at that moment we had something special going on here. Her contemporary to her father was one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen. Derek's choreography went to another universe that night and then the hug with her Dad brought tears, happy tears, to my eyes. Just a beautiful experience to see. In just about any other year, Amy would have won. She was just that special. Have you ever noticed how attractive Amy's family is. Her mother looks like Shelley Frabres and her sister his not quite Witney, but close. Amy is HOTT as well. Probably the best looking contestant family ever.

Janet: Yes, it was a joy to watch Amy, she stole the show and showed us all what IMPOSSIBLE looks like when it becomes reality. I'm glad you were just as touched as I was with her performances, and that tribute to her dad was a guaranteed waterworks show for sure. You know, I didn't actually look at her family, I was always so focused on her. But I'm not surprised they are are attractive. She's got a natural beauty that will stay with her for a lifetime.

Rick: Amy didn't win the Mirror Ball Trophy, but she was doing something much more important, she changed how we look at disability. Now that's a legacy.

Wearing "Cheetah legs", Amy danced like an angel.

Janet: Yes, Amy did something far more important than merely dancing. Her impact on how people think about disability is profound. I used to believe that there were a few people out there with disabilities who could soar, but within the parameters of their disability. Amy proved that if given the will and the talent, a disabled person can be better than most able-bodied people will ever be, including those who have spent their lives in the profession. Staggering. She is, like you said, a legacy.

Rick: And make no mistake, Derek is a huge part of that legacy. He could die today and he would have accomplished more in his short 28 years than most people ever do. And he's done it with grace, humility and class. I think we quite often give to much credit to a performer but in Mr Hough's case, it is deserved. 

Janet, who was your all-time favorite dancer/contestant?
Rick: Now, you never did answer my question regarding who was your favorite/best contestant of all time on DWTS? Come on, I won't laugh at you.....;)

Donald Driver & Peta Murgatroyd were a favorite pair!
What a combo of hawt chemistry, choreography & class! 

Janet: *huge, enthusiastic agreement in regards to your comments on Derek* I couldn't have said it better.

Oh yeah...favorite/best contestant. Hmmm, well I dabbled with my links to Julienne and Apolo. You are a BRAT, I must say...you won't LAUGH AT ME? RUDE! :D :D *gasp* Ok, to be honest, it's really impossible for me to answer that question. I love so many of the contestants for so many reasons, and the finest of them are very difficult to compare, because one will be stronger in one regard or another. I mean, as an overall through-the-roof dancer, is there really anyone to compare to Meryl? But in my opinion, that's not fair, either. She's a pro. She's been dancing all her life. You can't compare her with any other dancer because her level of skill and practice exceeds anyone that I can think of. If you take a look at the winners, runner ups and 3rd place finishers of every single season, you are going to have to agree with me: how can you possibly say that Amazingly Awesome dancer A is better than Amazingly Awesome dancer B? They are both incredible but different. Am I copping out? LOL, no, I think it's just impossible to say one is better than another, and I feel that way about my favorite dancers. I'm looking down the list right now and I just can't do it. There are so many who I loved so very much!

Rick, do YOU have a favorite dancer?
Janet: What do you think about that? Do you have a favorite? I promise I won't laugh at you for picking just one! :D :D

Rick: Yes you are copping out in regards to favorite of all time but I see what you are saying, particularly when considering 19 seasons. Maybe we can narrow it down to to 10 or 5 because there will always be valid arguments for each. It's like arguing who he greatest QB of all time is...just too many variables.

Katherine Jenkins was a joy to watch

I'll give you my top 5 in no particular order. I am basing it on their particular dance ability. Also, I don't totally agree with your regarding your statement about Meryl and being a pro. Yes, she is an ice dancer with tons of experience but I think it's a ballroom/latin dance is a whole new ballgame and dancing in on wood vs ice are completely different disciplines. While, the ice dancing is probably what gave her that incredible ability to emote, the technique, grace, movement and sensuality all had to be learned. Just my observation. 

My top 5 are: Meryl Davis, Katherine Jenkins, Nicole Scherzinger, Shawn Johnson and Kristi Yamaguchi. Yes, they are all women because women have a harder journey due to most dances being about the female. I mean, lets face it, a male is usually nothing more than a prop when it comes to the rumba, waltzes and the tangoes. Plus, it is my nature to like women more than men.....;)

Janet: Excellent choices! They all make my list too, but I'll add many more of my own: Apolo Ohno, Hélio Castroneves, Donald Driver, Emmett Smith, J.R. Martinez, Erin Grey, Amber Riley, Kellie Pickler, James Maslow, Zendaya, Melissa Rycroft, and Joey Fatone.

Gotta disagree with you on your kidding remark about men merely being props! :D There are countless examples out there of male contestants being equal in the rumba, waltzes and tangoes. A powerful, talented man is so wonderful to watch in these dances! :)