"Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth." - 1 Corinthians 13:6

MOVIE REVIEW:

I'll admit it now. I have a crush on Katherine Heigl. I love her on television, I loved "Knocked Up", and I didn't mind "27 Dresses." Her latest movie, "The Ugly Truth", proved that a crush can only go so far when putting up with a bad movie. One of my favorite settings for a movie is the broadcasting/news industry, but even that setting and Heigl couldn't save this film. With a script full of hokey dialogue, and about as much character development as a three panelled weekday comic strip, this movie is just plain ugly.

Wanting to be a cross between "Cyrano de Bergerac" and "Anchorman", this film fails to deliver anything but an occasional smile, and a whole lot of watch checking. Heigl plays a producer whose show is in trouble due to lack of viewership. To stir things up, her superiors bring in Gerard Butler's character - a shock television personality who is about as politically correct as Jerry Springer. He basically just uses questionable language and talks about sex to boost ratings, and I didn't buy it for a second.

There are no characters we really can cheer for as the script puts them in such one-dimensional situations that we've all seen before. I wouldn't recommend seeing this movie until it's out on DVD. When you rent it, you just need to fast forward until you see a baseball game scene, and look for the jumbotron camera operator...you'll recognize this person as Bobaloo from "I Survived a Japanese Game Show!" That was seriously the best part of the movie for me. So *1/2 out of **** for the movie, and Bobaloo accounts for that half star. Peace!

"Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred." - Proverbs 15:17

In 2004, Walt Disney Studios announced that "Home on the Range" was going to be their final traditionally animated film - the days of "Beauty and the Beast", "Aladdin", and "Bambi", to name a few, were coming to an end. With Pixar and Disney successfully signing on to continue the success of the more dimensional characters, storytelling was second to animated quality. Fortunately, Pixar has a stellar reputation, and they have yet to produce a film that didn't become a smash hit and critical darling. Something must have changed though, because if you've been to the movies lately, you may have seen a trailer for the new film "The Princess and the Frog." The Disney film proudly announces itself as the return to traditionally animated films - and also takes pride in the fact that after years of princess films, there will finally be an African American princess.

This leads us to the point of this post. If you haven't seen the trailer, watch it now by clicking HERE (sorry, YouTube disabled the embedding option), and then continue reading.

Okay, tell me if I'm wrong - but does it not look like this new princess will be a FROG for most of the movie?! This could be one of the most offensive messages sent by Disney in the history of their films. The first movie that I ever saw in theaters, "The Song of the South", still isn't out on DVD because of a few racial remarks, but I think that's nothing compared to a company boasting it's first African American princess character and then having her turn into a frog of all things?! I'm white, and I'm turned off by this - I cannot imagine what the African American community is going to do - or maybe have even started doing - to react to this. Maybe the film will be a nice, touching, family film, but that's not the point. The point is simply you don't advertise a film priding itself in having the first African American princess, and then turn said princess into a slimy reptile for an hour and a half!! I really don't think that I'm overreacting, but feel free to share your thoughts about this. All right, I'm stated my case. What do you think?

"Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy." - Romans 13:13

MOVIE REVIEW:

In short: Well, at least the poster's cool.

Ang Lee, the brilliant director of "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", "The Ice Storm", and "Brokeback Mountain" heads to upstate New York to tackle a story about one of the world's biggest musical events in history. Or so I thought. "Taking Woodstock" is instead a movie that wastes almost every opportunity to be interesting, and instead tells a dull story about dull people living on the outskirts of the Woodstock concert event of 1969. I will tell you this up front: there is not a single concert scene on the Woodstock stage. If you know that Woodstock was a concert where thousands upon thousands of hippies flocked to hear a great line-up of music, than this film will teach you nothing new about the event. One of my favorite comedians, Demetri Martin, proved that he could act in addition to his night job, but the script squanders his talent, along with the talent of everyone else involved. There is a great story to be told about these people, but Ang Lee must have fittingly been on something when he agreed to make this garbage hit the silver screen. When the movie ends, if you stay through the whole thing (four people walked out at my screening), you'll be left scratching your head. There are three storylines or plot elements that are unresolved...I won't explain them in detail as not to spoil it if you still decide to brave it, but doing so would be sadistic. I would highly suggest NOT seeing this movie, as it will bore and frustrate you.

* 1/2 out of * * * *.

"As one of them was cutting down a tree, the iron axhead fell into the water. "Oh, my lord," he cried out, "it was borrowed!" - 2 Kings 6:5

MOVIE REVIEWS:

Normally I just post reviews for movies that I see in theaters, but as the age of Netflix and Redbox is upon us, I thought I would give you all a little bit of information about some new DVD releases. Please note that later I will post my review for the movie "Taking Woodstock" which I am going to see in a couple of hours. But now onto the DVD reviews...

"Adventureland" was out in theaters roundabout the time I was in Japan. When I returned, it was barely playing anywhere and I decided to catch it at the cheap theaters instead. To my sadness however, the cheap theater near me chose not to screen it at all. So this past Wednesday, I decided to watch it on DVD. Was it worth the wait? No. But it wasn't terrible either.

Centering around one guy whose plans for the best post-college summer ever come crashing down when his parents don't deliver on their promise to fund a trip to Europe, the film follows his journey to find a job and stay employed at a zany area amusement park full of unoriginal, miserable characters. My favorite moments came when SNL cast members Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, playing the owners of the park, were on screen. If I had paid to see this in theaters, I would have felt like I wasted my money. It plays better on DVD, and I would suggest watching it but not getting your expectations too high. It's passable. I would give it * * out of * * * *.

Last night I watched "Duplicity", starring Julia Roberts and Clive Owen. Another movie that was out while I was in Japan and I never got to it upon my return, I was excited to see this hit the DVD shelf. Written and directed by the Oscar-nominated Tony Gilroy - the guy who brought us the brilliantly acted but kind of boring "Michael Clayton" - this film trudged along until it hit it's second hour and then became almost as fun as "Ocean's Eleven." Owen and Roberts were very good together as a couple who, as the viewing audience, we don't know who to trust. The supporting cast is strong, and the ending was very original. Aside from the slow first hour, my only other complaint is that the film jumps around from location to time period so often it may be hard for some to follow. This isn't one of those movies you can have on in the background and still be able to follow. Still though, on DVD it's totally worth the rental fee (or it's FREE if you go to your local library like I did!) and I would give it * * * out of * * * *.

Another movie that was released on DVD this week was "Sunshine Cleaning." I did see this in theaters, but if you missed it, I thought I would post my "warning" here. Starring Emily Blunt (The Devil Wears Prada), Amy Adams (Julie & Julia, Doubt), and Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine), the film deals with a down on her luck single mom and sister who begin working as crime scene clean-up attendants. While the previews made it look like a happy, bubbly, carefree time at the movies, I was seriously depressed after my screening. This film deals with the issue of "What do I with my life if I'm unhappy?" but doesn't provide any insight other than 'just try to change but things most likely won't work out.' The acting is great, the story is a little disjointed but still well-written, but again, watch with caution and have a good comedy on the back-burner if you get too depressed. I would give the movie * * 1/2 out of * * * *.

A suggestion for the comedy to watch post-"SC" would be "I Love You, Man." While earning it's R-rating, it is far more tame than other R-rated comedy fare of late. Relying on even parts of laughter and storyline, the movie starring Paul Rudd and Jason Segal is a refreshing buddy flick that will please just about everyone old enough to watch it. While it didn't break any comedy ground, I really liked the relationship of all the characters - it was like a long episode of some really well-written sitcom, and while some might consider that a bad thing, it is just the film to leave you smiling. I would give it * * * of * * * *.

Okay all, happy renting!

"Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." - 2 Timothy 4:8

Greetings!

So many of you are new to my blog - you haven't known me pre-"I Survived a Japanese Game Show". Those of you that have been my friends for a while though know that for the past four years, on September 26th, I post what I call "The Dan Awards." It's silly really, but it's become sort of a tradition. This year is the fifth awards blog-emony - basically I give out recognition to my favorite things in the past year of my life. About a month before (which would be now), I post my nominees. Unlike other award shows though, my nominees might change right up until the night before as things that happen right up until when I make that post could change an outcome. From best film to best cd to more offbeat awards, I cover a whole spectrum of things all for the purpose of having fun. So don't be offended or take this post too seriously - it's just for fun. That being said, here are the nominees for the fifth annual DAN AWARDS!

Best Movie (Viewed by Dan from 9/27/08 to 9/26/09)

Away We Go

Inglorious Basterds

Slumdog Millionaire

Up

Wanted

Best CD (Purchased by Dan from 9/27/08 to 9/26/09)

Free by Gavin DeGraw

When the World Comes Down by The All-American Rejects

Day and Age by The Killers

Best Song (Downloaded or Uploaded Legally by Dan from 9/27/08 to 9/26/09)

"Show Me What I'm Looking For" by Carolina Liar

"All My Days" by Alexi Murdoch

"Mona Lisa" by The All-American Rejects

"Never Say Never" by The Fray

"Joy Ride" by The Killers

Best Concert/Performance (Attended by Dan from 9/27/08 to 9/26/09)

The All-American Rejects - Boston, MA.

The Killers - Boston, MA.

Paul McCartney - Boston, MA.

Ray Romano & Brad Garrett - Boston, MA.

Vampire Weekend - Boston, MA.

Best or Most Memorable Accomplishment or Moment (from 9/27/08 to 9/26/09)

Standing in the Freezing Cold at the Inauguration of President Barack Obama - Washington, DC.

Coming in Third in a Small Stakes Poker Tournament in Vegas - Las Vegas, NV.

Getting Selected and Participating in the show "I Survived a Japanese Game Show"

Seeing a "Milk Shake" at the Wiener Circle

Moving Into a New Apartment That is Full of Awesomeness

Best TV Show (Scripted -watched by Dan from 9/27/08 to 9/26/09)

30 Rock

The Big Bang Theory

Grey's Anatomy

How I Met Your Mother

Parks and Recreation

Best TV Show (Reality - watched by Dan from 9/27/08 to 9/26/09)

The Amazing Race

Big Brother

I Survived a Japanese Game Show

Survivor

Top Chef

There are other categories too, along with the worst of the year awards. I will post more nominees and categories as the time grows closer. Peace!

"There is only cursing, lying and murder, stealing and adultery; they break all bounds, and bloodshed follows bloodshed." - Hosea 4:2

When I awoke this morning, and flipped on the news, I was met with the coverage of the death of Senator Ted Kennedy. If you are expecting some touching eulogy from me, you're going to be let down. Yes, I am a fairly liberal person. I voted for Obama, among other Democrats, and on a cool Facebook app, it has me pretty far to the left. I respect my government leaders - even former President Bush - even when I disagree with them. We live in a great country, and we need to at least be civil in our criticisms.

Sen. Kennedy, who hailed from my home state of Massachusetts, was a polarizing figure and one of the hardest working senators this country has ever seen. Whether you're a Democrat, Republican, or somewhere in the middle (or somewhere else), you have to at least tip your hat to all of his accomplishments.

The Kennedy name stands for so much - but Ted Kennedy began his career as the zit on the face of a politically charged family of greatness. If the Chappaquiddick incident had not occurred, there would have been a strong chance Sen. Kennedy would have become President Kennedy at some point. I am a forgiving person, but when it comes to my elected officials, I want someone with a little bit higher list of moral standards. Murderer? Adulterer? Not today thank you.

I actually have seen Sen. Kennedy speak twice - both on campaign stops - one for President Obama, and one for Governor Deval Patrick. Both times his speech was slurred and he appeared quite "under-the-influence." I remember being frustrated as I wanted someone more composed expressing the same concerns. I'm sure he was gifted, he just wasn't making it easy to respect him.

So while my sympathy does go out to the Kennedy family, I am not going to be one of those people who act all gaga over someone who got away with so much. I didn't shed a tear for Michael Jackson, and I will not shed one for Sen. Kennedy. We must move on from this, and not forget the political battles Sen. Kennedy stood for - bringing those battles fresh life with new people who can carry the torch in a post-Kennedy world. I'm sure someone will step up to that challenge.

"As for the saints who are in the land, they are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight." - Psalm 16:3

FILM REVIEWS:

Let me just get this out of the way right now: 'Inglorious Basterds" is one of the most entertaining 2 1/2 hours at the movies I've had all year. Quentin Tarantino again constructs a complex, unique, and multi-layered story that unfolds chapter style. This time, the tale is about a group of rag-tag Jews who are sent into Nazi-occupied France to wreak havoc on German soldiers. Led by Lt. Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt), the "basterds" are a take-no-prisoners bunch who don't just do their job well, but enjoy scalping, dismembering, and bashing in the heads of Nazi soldiers. The film jumps between this storyline and that of a young Jewish girl whose family is slaughtered and her plan for revenge. There are twists, turns, and more shocks that I can or would want to list. While brutally violent at times, anyone of age could see the film as a majority of the violent moments one can see coming in time to squint. Every element of this movie is top-notch - so I would highly recommend it. It's one of the years best films. * * * * of * * * *.

Now on to a movie that is less of a joy to watch. "District 9" is a alien tale told in a very new way. Playing out it's narrative in documentary style, the story is intriguing until it wears out it's welcome. Some of the movie is riveting, while other portions feel like you're stuck watching someone else playing a video game. The movie was almost two-hours long, but could have been almost half that and remained just as effective. While every alien movie involves suspending reality, this one pushes it as it takes itself too seriously. I don't want to sound too harsh as I did appreciate much of what the makers were doing here. I just would have liked to see a little more character development and less violence. Brutal violence doesn't bother me if it aides to the story (like "Inglorious Basterds) but they go a little too far in this film. About six people walked out of the showing I was at, and I was left feeling a little sick to my stomach. That aside, if your stomach is made of iron, I would suggest seeing this. * * * of * * * *.

Happy movie watching everyone! Peace.

"A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal..." - Proverbs 12:10a

Sorry it's been a few days for an update. It's been a rough week. I'm not going to get into it much, but in short, this past weekend my dad ended up in the hospital....thankfully he is fine now (hopefully) and home safe. That's just a stressful and scary thing - but I am so thankful he's doing well now!

Monday, someone who volunteered at the library (and used to work there for years) who I was not super close to, but I did know, passed away. It was really sad as she was such a sweet person, and did so much good for the library. Just a couple of months ago she was passing by my desk, asking about what was new in my life, and working hard as a volunteer. Now she is gone. It's so sad, and she will be missed.

Then yesterday, our family had to make the tough decision to put our 16 year-old Shetland Sheepdog named Taffy down. She was very ill, and her quality of life was very small, however it doesn't make losing her any easier. She was a great dog, I loved her a ton, and am really sad. There is no easy way to cope, but I do know that Taffy had a great long life, and she was loved (and spoiled!) by her family.

I'll update the blog on a more regular basis next week, I just need a few days right now. Thanks!

"Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." - Psalm 55:2

I saw "Ponyo" last Saturday - my review will come later today. Upon seeing the film, it completed my "Five Films to See This Summer" list, so I thought it only fitting to now post my "Five Films to See This Fall" list. Now, according to Entertainment Weekly, they consider December a fall month. I do not. So the following five films I will mention, in reverse order of my excitement level (but I am dying to see them all!), are all scheduled to be released in either September, October, or November. I just want to say narrowing this list down to five was really tough - there are over twenty movies that I am looking forward to seeing in the three months. And my favorite film of the year so far, "Away We Go", wasn't in my last list of five films to see for the summer, so you never know. That being said, here are the ones that really stand out at this point:

5. The Invention of Lying - 9/25

WHY I CAN'T WAIT:

If I had to order up a movie, it would pretty much be "The Invention of Lying." Some of my favorite people working in the entertainment industry today - Tina Fey, Jennifer Garner, and Ricky Gervais - are a part of this comedy about a perfectly honest world that is shaken by one man's discovery of how to lie. Producers are comparing it a comedy film meets a Twilight Zone episode, and from the trailer, it looks hilarious.

POTENTIAL PROBLEM:

September is often considered dumping ground for movies that aren't Oscar-worthy or strong enough to make money during the summer or holiday months.

4. Fantastic Mr. Fox - 11/13

WHY I CAN'T WAIT:

Anyone who knows me knows that I love stop-motion animation, with Wallace and Gromit being two of my all-time favorite characters. This new film boasts the vocal talent of Meryl Streep, George Clooney, and Bill Murray, to name a few. Based on the Roald Dahl book, this movie has classic written all over it.

POTENTIAL PROBLEM:

It has classic written all over it unless the animation is too clunky and the humor too slapstick. I think I'll like it, but the masses might think it's not that 'fantastic.'

3. Broken Embraces - 11/20

WHY I CAN'T WAIT:

Pedro Almodovar is one of the greatest working directors of our lifetime. When he releases a film, critics go crazy. His last effort, "Volver", was one of the best movies in the year it was released and earned an Oscar nomination for Penelope Cruz. This new movie, also starring Cruz, tells the tale of one actresses relationship with a director. As Almodovar and Cruz are close friends, I wonder how semiautobiographical this film will be...and I can't wait!

POTENTIAL PROBLEM:

Sometimes Almodovar's films are too crazy for their own good - but I think this will be great.

2. 9 - 9/9

WHY I CAN'T WAIT:

Produced by Tim Burton and the director of Wanted, this post-apocolyptic tale has a trailer that cannot help but excite. It's so good that I am just going to post it below instead of trying to explain.

POTENTIAL PROBLEM:

As mentioned above, September is a dumping ground. In this case though, they could just be going for the gimmick of releasing 9 on 9/9/09, so we'll see! Also, this movie might get confused with Nine, a musical that is opening just a few weeks later.

1. The Road - 10/16

WHY I CAN'T WAIT:

My favorite novel in a long time gets adapted into a feature film starring Viggo Mortensen and Charlize Theron. I am nervous, but excited. Cormac McCarthy, the book's author, was so mad when his All the Pretty Horses was released and was terrible, that he now holds control over certain production elements when his books are adapted for the screen. His last work to hit theaters, No Country for Old Men, ended up winning the Best Picture Oscar. So fingers crossed!

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS:

Where do I begin? Well, first, the movie should have been released last year. Delays are never a good sign. Secondly, Charlize Theron gets a big billing - as the wife character? The wife is dead in the book, and only referred to briefly. I am worried that this tale of a father's love for his son will get butchered - which is sad. And the book is almost always better than the movie.

So that's that. The movies that came really close to making the list: Where the Wild Things Are, The Box, Extract, The Informant!, and Shutter Island. Happy movie watching everyone!

"But the prophet who prophesies peace will be recognized as one truly sent by the LORD only if his prediction comes true." - Jeremiah 28:9

Sorry this second journal entry is coming later than I had said - I fell asleep earlier than expected last night. Here is the second journal entry - if you didn't read the first one yet, do that - they go in order - that post is below this one. Peace!

3/25/09

From My Hotel -- Tokyo -- Japan

Last night was incredible. We took a bus to two busy sections of Shinjuku to shoot theme song/promo ad spots. I felt like such a celebrity, I won't deny it's awesomeness!! It's so silly really, but still totally cool. I had to come up with a pose, which made me feel stupid - until I decided to do the sterotypical library "shhhhh" finger. I hope that doesn't come across as snooty 'cause that's what I am her to try and CHANGE about librarians. Yesterday we also met with a couple producers of the show. I am actually shocked at how nice they all are. It's incredible really. I always pictured these top honchos to be execs who just hog most of the credit after writing a check from a poolside seat in L.A. The people on this though are all working their butts off.

I am so ready to start playing the game. I am so excited. As nice as many of the contestants probably are, I just want to start sending people home. As there can only be one winner, there's no point in acting all sad when people leave. My early prediction of the first out will be the tall black girl. She has diva written all over her. Last night, as we were heading into the city, looking at this awesome place, she was doing word puzzles. My word, how could someone not enjoy this place and choose an activity book as an alternative. If she wants to turn her back on Japan, I am more than willing to help her pack her bags. It's early though, so we'll see.

I am so happy right now. So thrilled to be here and in this game. Now let it begin.

Hours later, it did. Peace!

"You say, "I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge uprightly." - Psalm 75:2

I'm on my lunch break now. I should be cleaning for poker tonight, but as I was doing that very task, I came upon something I had lost and am now so happy to have found. It's my journal from my time in Japan. Now, I only had it for two days - because I didn't think we were allowed to have it in the house, so it's really just my "first impression" entry and my "second thoughts" entry. I wanted to share these with you all a while ago, but since it went missing, I could not. Well now, without further delay, here is my first post. I'll post the second entry tomorrow. This one was written before I even knew the names of the contestants - see if you can tell who's who:

3/24/09

From My Hotel -- Tokyo -- Japan

I'm in Japan. I'm actually in Japan. My word. I cannot process everything yet, but I am excited. This reality show adventure is a dream, as sad as that may sound, and I am pumped. Yesterday was the first time the contestants all came into contact with each other. We aren't allowed to talk or signal to each other, but in the whole airport process I couldn't help but start to size up the competition. I don't know much about the people themselves obviously, but observing things like book/magazine choices and food selections for on the plane gave me some things to work with. Here's what I've got so far:

* This one girl, who looks about 13, bears a striking resemblance to the Swiss Miss girl.

* Another girl, who is quite attractive, happens to be a smoker. I really hope I don't get her on my team. I know from past experiences that smokers don't perform well at athletic challenges.

* One guys is like this large, friendly, helpful dude who might have problems in the challenges due to his weight. We'll see.

* An African American girl stands over six feet tall in her shoes.

* There are these two girls who I cannot at this early stage of not looking/not talking get any sort of read on. One has red hair and the other brown - that's all I've got now.

* There is the dread-locked guy who insisted on salad for lunch yesterday, which tells me he is health conscious. He looks fit, which means he could be trouble in challenges - or an asset if he's on my team.

* Another African American girl would probably top my list of "Potentially Most Annoying." She already has been talked to about talking too much, and seems to comment on everything. I am not exactly looking forward to when her "flood gates" are legally opened.

*This one guy seemed to miss the memo about not wearing clothing with crazy patterns and designs. I know almost nothing when it comes to fashion and stuff, but it doesn't take a designer or art critic to tell this guy looks like a walking Pollock rejected painting.

*There is this one girl who I have crossed paths with awkwardly twice in the process already. She looks like she could be partly Asian. We were called to two different places near each other during finals, and shared an elevator while remaining completely silent. Then we ended up on the same airport shuttle to our LA hotel. I have no read on her yet though.

*There is this one guy who looks like an athlete, and hopefully ends up on my team at the beginning, but could be a physical challenge later.

So those are my early thoughts. The one thing that strikes me as odd is there are no "old" people in the cast. As there is one less guy, maybe they are going to bring back the older guy from PA who got sick last year and had to leave the competition. The whole cast is young and for the most part in relatively good shape.

Yesterday's flight was so long but I couldn't sleep due largely in part to being excited. There was good in-flight entertainment - a bunch of movies and shows to view for free - which I did. I finally saw "Vicky Cristina Barcelona" and wondered why it got all the good reviews. It was sort of stupid. I decided to watch "Slumdog Millionaire" for the third time and still think it's one of the best movies in a long time. I watched "Kung Fu Panda" as well, which was pretty good - about what I had expected. When I started writing, the sun was down, but now it's up. My hotel room has a decent view of some part of Japan. I can see a small park amidst tons of tall buildings. In the park there is a group of people all in a clump. One person wearing a white hat is circling them. I have no idea what's going on, but it's fun to observe - I think if I had to guess it is some type of exercise class. Now they are all in a big circle. Okay, I'm going to stop for now. They ("they" being the casting parents Mindy and Billy) said they would be taking our journals from us, along with our iPods, at some point, so I don't know when and if I'll get to update this again.

So that's the end of the first post. Number two will be posted tomorrow. I had to edit it slightly for some private show details I don't want to get in trouble for sharing, but I added nothing now - that's what was going through my head as soon as I arrived! Peace!

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." - Ephesians 2:10

First off, I posted a new poll - my first non-"ISAJGS" one - and please people, for the love of Rome Kanda, just vote once. I love you to death but voting hundreds of times only skews the the actual opinion. In the first poll I posted, Yari won by over eight hundred votes. No offense to her, but 95% of the vote? Someone obviously figured out how to vote more than once with cache clearing mechanisms and what not. Don't you think you could feel safe, ohhhhh, after voting one hundred or two hundred times. And my polls have no sway on the show, and I doubt ABC execs reads this blog (if you do, hi there, how's it going - soooooo, I am totally open to either "The Bachelor: Christian Edition" or a cameo as a patient on "Grey's Anatomy" - just throwing that out there). Where was I...oh, SO frequent voter, don't you know on the lightning strike of a chance that there is ever a Majide all-stars, I don't think they (the execs) are going to see "Yari support" in my blog poll as the reason to bring her back. What point is your life at where you can just vote eight hundred times and justify that time spent? Woah. Harsh. I know. I should just be thankful you make my blog statistics look freaking awesome - but please for the love of voting integrity, just vote one time. If you want to spread the word about the poll to friends and family to have your opinion heard, so be it. But seriously. I guess I shouldn't judge "time well spent" though - being overly bored the other night, I resorted to opening up Paint - which is one of the most lame things ever. So I created the lousy piece of crap below- I call it:

"Ugly Octopus Meets Big Weird Fish And Decides Not to Say Hi Despite Knowing She Needs Friends But No, Even She Won't Sink to His Pathetic Level As She Doesn't Need Friends That Badly And She Is Sure to Make New Better Pals When She Starts Her New Job Next Week as a Temp Worker Holding 'Going Out Of Business' Signs For A Local Underwater Furniture Retailer That Is Going Under (Pun Intended) Due to the Economic Downturn Brought On By the Bush Administration or Maybe the Clinton Administration, She Doesn't Know As She Only Voted Once Because Someone Paid Her to Do So Which May Have Been Ethically Wrong But She Needed Cigarette Money."

- can you not tell it's been a long crazy week at work so far and I have chosen today to let off my insane steam in blog form. At least I'm not kicking kittens or something. Or hamsters. That would be terrible. But if you steal this picture for your blogs or anywhere else, you better believe I will sue the living daylights out of you. Just kidding. You love the picture. You know you do. If you steal it, then at least have the courtesy of keeping the title with it. The title is the most important part. OMW, my week has been crazy and this is the most disjointed post I have ever done. I forgot what I was even going to write about, but I think the picture above actually has you lunging for one of your other favorite sites instead, and I don't blame you. Go do that instead. Or heck, vote for the 458th time in the poll. Until tomorrow...

"He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness." - Hebrews 5:12

I thought today I would blog about the websites that are in my daily surfing routine. If blogging is a selfish act like recently discussed, than I want to prove those critics wrong. I want to share these sites with you - thus steering you away from my blog and onto places that I enjoy. Many of them are very popular, so they will come as nothing new. So here are my top ten favorite websites, in alphabetical order.

1. Amazon.com's Deal of the Day Page CLICK HERE

Now I love Amazon.com as much as the next guy, but seriously, their "Deal of the Day"/"Gold Box" page is incredible. When I wake up every morning, it's literally the first website that I check before I even get out of bed. If you aren't an avid Amazonite, basically every day the biggest online retailer chooses one item and marks it way down. Some days the bargains are incredible - others not so much - but it's always worth checking. To the right of the DOTD, there are "Lightning Deals" - specials that last only a matter of hours. I must visit this page a half a dozen times a day, and I usually get something from it at least once a month. It's a great way to save money and get some really cool stuff!

2. Facebook CLICK HERE

So if you haven't heard of Facebook you obviously live under a rock and are on my blog by sheer accident. Seriously, I love the site though - I won't lie. I probably spend more time on Facebook than any other website. My favorite application is Flixster - it lets me keep track of all of my movie reviews and see what my friends are watching - it's great.

3. G-Mail CLICK HERE

I have e-mail accounts with Juno, Hotmail, Yahoo!, and G-Mail, and the e-mail service from Google remains my favorite. For one, it interacts very nicely with Blogger, which makes updating this very blog quite simple. There is also a ton of free space, a nice set of layouts (mountains are my choice) and it's not crowded with too much info like Yahoo! mail.

4. Hulu CLICK HERE

Whoever invented Hulu obviously hates the human race. I love that the ads for the company are depicting aliens using Hulu to take over the world as it dumbs humans down. What Hulu does is provides hours upon hours of free tv shows and movies to watch legally from your computer. From old classics to new reality shows (I Survived a Japanese Game Show included!), there is something for everyone to get addicted to.

5. IMDB CLICK HERE

IMDB stands for The Internet Movie Database. It's a great site for entertainment lovers as it provides information on all movies and television shows. It is the end all of online entertainment technical info, and also provides fun facts, award history, and actor/actress biographies among other features. I also love the fact that my initials are DB, so I'MDB...get it...haha...cheesy, I know. Love the site though - check it out.

6. Lee's Movie Info CLICK HERE

Lee's Movie Info is a box office tracking website that also has up to date film reviews and polls. I check it every Sunday afternoon to see which movies did well that weekend. While I am not a big fan of the critics who write for the site, the numerical information and tools that go along with it are a movie junkie's dream. Like you can compare how two movies did side by side - so if you want to see if "The Return of the King" made more than "Iron Man" for instance, you can line them up and examine trends in their box office grosses week to week. It sounds geeky, and it might be a little, but it's addicting!

7. PicApp CLICK HERE

I love sites like PicApp which provide me with free quality clipart. I am one of those people who never downloads anything illegally - I just hate online theft. This database provides entertainment and media pictures I can use free of charge in this blog. Most of the pictures I post are from PicApp, and if you write a blog or anything online for that matter, this is a great resource.

8. Rotten Tomatoes CLICK HERE

This is my favorite movie website of them all. What RT does is compiles all the accredited film critics movie scores and generates one rating. Before you go to see any movie, you should check this site. Now, I don't always agree with one or two or even a dozen critics - but that's the beauty of this site - it compiles TONS of critics, not just one or two regional ones. I know people where I work who judge whether or not to see a movie on what our local critic has to say - which is silly, as that is just one person. Getting the overall feel is a lot more helpful. The site also has a great news ticker and some interesting interviews with celebs. Check it out.

9. SPLAT Blog CLICK HERE

The blog for SPLAT, which stands for Shrewsbury Public Library Advisory Team, is near and dear to my heart...because I update it. It's boring for you most likely. Boring unless you live in Shrewsbury and are or are related to a teen, then you should check it out. The blog talks about teen events that I am running at the library. I am nowhere near as loyal an updater to that blog as I am this one, but oh well.

10. YouTube CLICK HERE

This is another "of course you go there" site, but I couldn't leave it off. From funny animated shorts to friends v-logs, I cannot stay away. I am on the site every day for one thing or another. Here is one video you should watch if you haven't already - the star of it might look familiar - it's one of my all time favorites:

"My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music." - Psalm 57:7

CHECK THIS OUT:

During my college days, I worked as an evening/weekend shift supervisor for the Steelman Library at Southeastern University (where I also attended and graduated from). I loved the job - it was actually one of my all time favorite positions I have ever held. I made many friends while working there, and one of them, Matt Hagelberger, has now "hit it big" with his band Terra Terra Terra. In my opinion, their music is like a Christian version of Linkin Park, but with a little lighter pop sound. Check out their Myspace or Amazon.com to find out how to buy the CD and listen to samples. Let me know what you think in the comments section of this post. Remember, you don't need to be a Blogger member to comment. Peace!

"Before that time there were no wages for man or beast. No one could go about his business safely because of his enemy, for I had turned every man against his neighbor." - Zechariah 8:10

Last night, two new reality show competitions began. "There Goes the Neighborhood" on CBS, and "Shark Tank" on ABC. The first features a real-life neighborhood put behind a giant wall and cut off from the world. The neighbors must compete in challenges to win both safety from being voted out and luxuries, all fighting for an eventual $250,000 grand prize. Frankly, the show is one of the most evil concoctions I have ever seen. You have a neighborhood that gets along really well, and you throw money into the mix and of course things are going to get ugly. And even if you could get past that part of the show, the first challenge was so dumb - hosing down family members to read numbers - that the show better not become a hit. I think this neighborhood will regret signing up for this program. Did they not think this through? They have to live with each other once the show is done!! If I had to live with the likes of Jamie, Drew, Justin, or Kimberly for instance from "I Survived a Japanese Game Show" once our show had completed taping, I think I would go insane. I will not be watching "There Goes the Neighborhood" anymore. If you didn't catch it, I would not suggest tuning in next week.

TCA Tour - Day 12">

On the flip side, a breath of reality tv fresh air came in "Shark Tank", a Mark Burnett ("Survivor", "The Apprentice") creation which is both captivating and original. If "The Apprentice" and "American Idol" were smashed together, this is what you would get. Instead of singers, you have potential business owners or inventors, and instead of judges, you have real-life investors looking for the next big ideas. There are no "rounds" or "eliminations" or "voting offs/firings", just deals or rejections. The format is simple - a "contestant" walks in, presents their idea(s), and gives their demands for what money they need. The "sharks" then run over the pros and cons, and either back out of the idea, buy the idea, or counter-offer. It's fascinating! I love that you could miss an episode (not that I would want to based on the stellar premiere) and you could still tune in the next week and be entertained fully. I wish the show was longer than one hour per week - it's seriously the best new reality show I've seen in ages.

Oh, and "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" is back - but it never really left. It's been on, in syndicated form, ever since it ended it's primetime run five years ago, so it's not that big of a deal, especially since they made the new primetime version the same style as the syndicated one - which was a bad move in my opinion. It is great to see Regis back in the host chair though - it's a good show to have on when you have nothing better to watch, I just won't go out of my way to catch all of the episodes.

Well, I have to go get ready for work. Did any of you catch either of those two new shows? What did you think?

"I belong to my lover, and his desire is for me." - Song of Solomon 7:10

FILM REVIEW:

I've been looking forward to "Paper Heart" for months now. I actually posted the trailer to the film in my blog on Friday, April 24th, 2009. So having waited just over three months for an independent film, was it worth the wait? The answer, in short, is "no." "Paper Heart", number four on my "Five Films to See This Summer", was an offbeat movie-going experience that was quirky but not satisfying as a whole.

The film is about love, and how hard it is to find it in a world where there are so many people trying to define the undefinable. Basically, the movie is preaching to the choir. If I wanted to make a documentary on how evil it is to burn kittens, I think everyone would agree with the point I was trying to make. The makers of this film broke zero ground - believe me - I'm single, and this film didn't help me at all.

If you've seen "When Harry Met Sally" or the more recent "He's Just Not That Into You", you know that those films are broken into chapters - each which begins with a couple or person in love briefly talking about one aspect of a relationship. "Paper Heart" is basically a collage of a bunch of those moments, which only breaks away from that style to follow a relationship between real life actors Charlyne Yi and Michael Cera - who both play themselves as the film is told documentary style. While I was rooting for their relationship to work, every time that storyline began to grow, the film would cut away to one of the small collage pieces, and it was just downright frustrating.

There were plenty of "smile" moments, and it wasn't overly long like so many of this summer's disappointing films, but again, it was far from satisfying. This is the third movie I've seen this weekend that I'm giving **1/2 of **** to. I'm hoping my luck will change soon with the releases of "Ponyo" and "District 9."

"Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus." - 2 Timothy 2:3

FILM REVIEW:



"G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra" is a stupid movie. If you get nothing else from this review, remember that fact. Now that being said, I enjoyed "G.I. Joe" immensely, and if you enjoyed the ads for the movie, you'll probably have fun too. The plot doesn't really matter, but there is a story about a pretty cool new weapon that is sold to the American army by an evil weapons dealer who double crosses the Americans and nobody can stop him aside from an elite force - you guessed it - the G.I. Joe's. 90% of the movie is one cool fight sequence after another. There are cool weapons, cool toys, cool cars, and cool chick fights - it appeals to everyone's inner 16 year-old boy. There is one half-way decent twist, but since the story is second to the action, it really doesn't matter.

"G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra", as a summer movie, delivers the goods. It is certainly not going to win any Oscars, but it's not trying to. Sienna Miller, a fine actress who plays one of the many characters in this film, said that none of the actors involved in this movie will be turning in their best acting work. When even the cast knows the movie is stupid, it's a good sign. It means they didn't make a movie for snobs - they made a movie to appeal to their target audience. Some movies like "Iron Man", "The Dark Knight", and "Watchmen" can appeal to both fans and critics, but "G.I. Joe" falls short. So while the critic in me wants to give this movie one star, and the 16 year-old in me wants to give this movie four stars, I'm going to settle in the middle giving "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra" a **1/2 out of **** rating.

"Tell this rebellious house a parable and say to them: 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: " 'Put on the cooking pot; put it on and pour water into it." - Ezekiel 24:3

FILM REVIEWS:

Last weekend I saw the movie "Funny People" and last night I saw the movie "Julie & Julia" - both movies have similarities, so I felt reviewing them at the same time wasn't a cop-out, but instead a time saving measure on both my part and yours. Each film revolves around people who are not satisfied with their lives. In "Funny People", Adam Sandler gives a great performance as a miserable man. Part of me wonders how semi-autobiographical the film is in contrast with his own life. In "Julie & Julia", Meryll Streep and Amy Adams both play women who are unsatisfied with just going through the motions of day-to-day life, and take on cooking as a means of quelling their boredom.

The lack of plot in both films is upsetting. Both have very strong casts, they both have solid direction, but as I am always one to commend good writing, this time, I think the screenwriters are to blame for wasting the talents of so many good performers. "Funny People" is too depressing for it's own right, and "Julie & Julia" is a bit boring. Both films outstay their welcome by at least a half an hour, and both end on an odd note which is far from uplifting. I've seen much worse movies this year. If you're looking to escape the summer heat, these aren't the worst way to spend $6 bucks. That being said, I cannot fully get behind either of these movies - so you're warned. I would give each **1/2 out of ****.

On a side note, one scene in "Julie & Julia" talks about people that blog. They describe them as self-centered and a few other far from flattering terms. I just found that funny, and I assure you it has nothing to do with why I gave the movie a far from stellar review. Peace!

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7

"I Survived a Japanese Game Show" is over. Twelve Americans made their way to Japan, not knowing what to expect other than the craziness that is "Majide." The group, of which I am proud to have been a part of, competed in some of the most insane games that man has ever concocted. After the dust settled at Toho Studios, a short, underestimated housewife from Bartlett, Illinois remained as the Majide champion. I want to send out my congrats to Cathy, the winner of season two. Cathy was a joy to live in the Majide guest house with, and brought tons of luck and skill to the Red Robots in weeks three and four. During the show, Cathy was selfless - teaching people on both teams stretches, wishing them well, and being a total class act. I also want to send out kudos to Linda. A total competitor through-and-through, and someone I am proud to call a friend - she came so close and should be totally proud of her accomplishments. I really hope to be in close touch with both of these incredible women in the future.

Speaking of incredible women, let's not forget within the first thirty minutes of tonight's episode, we lost Megan.

I was really sad to see that she was the next to depart the game. I was pulling for a Linda, Megan, Cathy final three. Megan is one of the most thoughtful people I know. She actually rescued my bib with my name on it (the one I wore in challenges) and had it framed. Cathy and Megan both hosted eight others at their homes in Chicago for our own reunion party. I personally may not have won the $250,000, but winning friendships with Cathy, Linda, and Megan is a GREAT consolation prize!

After Megan left, it only made sense for Linda and Cathy to root for Justin to win against Brent, as Brent was obviously the tougher physical competitor. Time and time again though, Majide has proven to be a game that isn't about strength, but about numerous other elements - coordination, flexibility, and a whole lot of luck.

This proved true as Justin was victorious and sent Brent home. Brent was a really nice guy. He slept a lot when not playing in the games - which I cannot fault him for as the whole process was exhausting. I wish him only the best. This brings us to the best moment in the finale for me. Watching Justin go home. Seriously. This has nothing to do with the fact he beat me in last week's episode. It has everything to do with the fact that he is a low-life drunk who was so rude to the Japanese people in tonight's episode that he can kiss his Rogaine endorsement deal goodbye. To add gasoline to the fire, Justin was constantly bashing on everyone in the house - not performance attacks, but personal attacks. I was so sick of him by the end of my time there, and it didn't get better when seeing the crybaby again in Chicago. Funny thing is, if Justin is remembered for anything, it will be a toss up between his rude comments in tonight's episode and the fact he looks 44 and is 22. I was going to be more civil but after tonight, I was just done with him.

So that wraps up season two of "I Survived a Japanese Game Show." Wow. It seems like just yesterday I was sending the following e-mail to the casting department at ABC:

Last winter, I was selected to be interviewed for the show "Million Dollar Password" on CBS, but my meeting was snowed out and I couldn't go to the reschedule date. I hope it was meant to be and you see the dynamic personality that I am that those casting folks saw. I am a Young Adult Librarian, which is an awesome job where I get to work with 5-12 graders from all walks of life. I have a Broadcasting degree from Southeastern University, and have won both student worker and production awards. On my own time, I love to play poker, watch television (The Amazing Race being my favorite show), and just hang with friends. I tend to be very principled - which some people would find annoying. I am a proud Christian, and I have never had a drop of alcohol and I only swear when I am really ticked off. You said to be brief, so in short, I will bring to the show both intense competitiveness and sheer entertainment - what more could you be looking for?

It seems like just yesterday I was on a plane, watching "Slumdog Millionaire", anxiously waiting for the plane to land in Japan to begin this great adventure. It seems like just yesterday that I was in the parking lot of a Japanese 7-11, getting miked for the first time, wondering what the heck I had gotten myself into. It seems like just yesterday the contestants crowned Megan the Majide Homecoming Queen in a pageant we held in the house. And it seems like just yesterday I saw myself on television for the first time and felt totally sick to my stomach. This chapter in my life closes now, but a new one will begin...tomorrow. Tonight I congratulate Cathy and celebrate her victory.

One last time...HAIIIIIIIIIIIII MAJIDE!!!

"Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." - 1 Corinthians 9:25

No, that's not me above. Tell me for a split second you thought it was! How cool would that have been!?

I love poker. Love it. While the actual "National Poker Week" was a couple of weeks ago, today was my poker day. Every time a major holiday falls on a weekend, my work gives us a floating holiday. So today was my "Fourth of July" - which I renamed "Poker Day." Poker Day is not over yet, but as I am in between games, I thought I would update you all, as I'm sure since you're on my blog you have nothing better to do. I am not one of those cocky morons who brings $1000 to a casino to blow in front of the chicks in hopes of getting some attention. The most I ever bring is $100 - and that is $100 I am okay with losing as I have budgeted it out accordingly. This morning, my buddies Dennis, Phil, and Karina and I trekked down to Mohegan Sun ("a world at play" - not, "the wonder of it all") and entered ourselves into a $50 No-Limit Texas Hold'em Poker Tournament. There is something amazing about poker. I love how it combines both luck and skill. I love card games, and T.H.'em is by far my favorite. The cards were "in the air" at 9AM, and let's just say today wasn't my day. I got the worst cards for a while, and then when I actually got a hand - usually a King/Jack suited or something, the flop would come 2/5/9 or something bizarre, and some no-nothing would bet it like their life depended on it. I'm not going to take you through the game hand by hand, but I was eliminated in the seventh round (rounds based on blind levels.) I thought that was funny as I was eliminated in the seventh round of Majide. Dangit, I need to find a sport or activity that has a maximum of seven rounds, and then I'd be doing pretty freaking awesome! As mentioned a moment ago, my poker day is not over. My friends (who fared better than me, but still didn't end "in the money") and I just got back to my apartment, and now we're all getting ready for poker tournament number two! Tonight's game is a cheap, friendly game - my favorite kind. We have a game every week that is not about winning money, but about socializing. I think that's the other reason I love the game so much. Pre-Dan apartment poker nights, I didn't see friends much at all. When I graduated college, most of my friends dispersed to areas not near where I am now, but fortunately for the game of poker, I have made a few good new friends (well, not new anymore - we've been having poker nights for over a year now.) It's the perfect game to both play but also get to know people over conversation. I always am boggled when a friend touches base with me after years and is like "wanna go see a movie" and that's it. Seriously? I love movies, but what's the point in going out of our way to catch up if we're just going to sit in a dark room and stare at a screen. One of my awesome friends, Manda, always pairs our movie get togethers with a lunch, and that makes sense. I'm rambling now, but oh well. I need to go anyways as I have to set up a new poker table I bought for tonight's event.

And on a second note - HOW EXCITED ARE YOU ABOUT THE "I SURVIVED A JAPANESE GAME SHOW" FINALE TONIGHT?!?!?!?! I am just happy the winner will get their check weeks sooner than they would have before. Unless it's Justin. I am sure somewhere a pot dealer is sitting anxiously by a television set, cheering for a Justin victory as he knows he'll be the recipient of a good portion of the winnings.

Peace!

"The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil." - Proverbs 15:28

I want to thank everyone for their outpouring of support pertaining to my time on "I Survived a Japanese Game Show." My e-mail, Facebook, and MySpace message boxes have been flooded with questions - many of them the same, and I wanted to take the time to address them all in one place. You can call this the FAQ of Dan on "ISAJGS." All of the following questions have been asked of me more than once - some of them are really funny in my opinion!

Q. Did you really kill the sumo wrestler? (Asked by at least four young children, two of them being Cathy's! This pertains to my elimination game in episode two where I had to "glide" over a mountain of lubed up sumos. In the show, I make a comedic comment "I think I may have killed one of them....and I might be engaged to another.")

A. No. I didn't kill the sumo wrestler....I don't think so anyways! I will say that the sumos do get revenge on me though later in episode six when the Red Robots have to work as sumo servants.

Q. Who was your favorite original Red Robot?

A. Good question. Well, if I had to answer this question pre-episode five, I would say it's a tie between Jamie and Drew. They were both totally cool people when they weren't always ducking into the bedroom. I got a long really well with Justin at the beginning too - he took me back to my college days, or at least memories of people I knew in college. I think Yari is someone I would get along really well with if I didn't have to live in close proximity of her 24/7, but I have nothing nice to say about Kimberly. Nothing at all.

Q. Who was your favorite Green Tiger?

A. I actually loved all but one of the Green Tigers. I was really sad I wasn't put on that team in the beginning. For respect of the one person, who I don't hate, just didn't click as well with, I am not going to answer this question completely.

Q. Did Jamie and Drew have sex?

A. This is a popular "moms ask me when their kids are looking away question" - and the answer is "HOW WOULD I KNOW!!!!?" I really don't know, although the show's Executive Producer, Kent Weed, said on his blog that he knows for a fact a lot more than kissing went on between them in the Majide house.

Q. Were the squids real in the elimination game between Jamie and Drew?

A. Yes. And they smelled awful! I actually knew before even seeing the game raw seafood was involved - we could all smell something bad when we got to the set.

Q. Are you in touch with the cast members now?

A. Almost every day. It's primarily on Facebook. The cast has some threads going, and usually we all post something every day or every few days at the least. Kimberly is the only one not in on the dialogue. The video on my sidebar is a clip Bobaloo took from our reunion in Chicago.

Q. When did you tape the show?

A. The show was filmed this past spring. It was in Tokyo - some people out there actually think it was all shot in Los Angeles on sets - which I think is hilarious. Trust me, we were in Japan - I have the passport stamp to prove it! While the show was airing and I wasn't eliminated, people thought I was flying back and forth from Japan each week like the show was live or something - I could not handle that jet lag!

Q. Who do you want to win?

A. I answered this in my long-winded goodbye blog, but in short - Linda.

Q. Why didn't you volunteer yourself to go into the elimination game against Megan?

A. Funny story, but I am contractually not allowed to discuss it. Let's just say that was an option I explored and felt my best move in the game was to go another route. Obviously I was incorrect, but I don't regret anything. It's Majide, not rocket science!

Q. Was the sumo wrestler in the shower scene really naked?

A. Heck yes, heck yes, heck yes. I actually didn't think they were going to show that scene on TV. Those dudes obviously have a different set of standards.

Q. Did you really never jump on a trampoline?

A. My parents told me that I had one when I was really little, but I don't remember it at all. It had nothing to do with being homeschooled though. And I think for being as sore and injured as I was, I had a couple of really good jumps!

Q. Where did you go to school for your MLS (Master's of Library Science?)

A. I actually don't have an MLS. I have a Broadcasting degree from Southeastern University. I have extensive programming experience and training with youth - that's why I fit in well in the position of Young Adult Librarian. As of this month, I have worked in libraries on and off for ten years.

Q. What is a Young Adult Librarian?

A. Many people think a Young Adult Librarian is just someone young (like me) who works in a library. Not true. What a YA Librarian does is work with youths in their communities. I am responsible for building a book collection and running events for Shrewsbury teens and 'tweens in grades 5-12. My communication degree comes in handy!

Q. Your bio on ABC says you like poker - that seems weird for someone like yourself?

A. Love it. I would play every day if I could, but I am all about responsible gaming. I actually budget out what I can afford to spend on playing poker or blackjack, and only spend that. If I had won the big $250,000 prize, I would have played in the WPT Main Event in Vegas. Oh well - I'll stick to the $40 and $60 tournaments every couple of months!!

Q. What is something interesting about yourself that didn't come through on the show?

A. Two things people who know me well say they were surprised they didn't see on the show. One - people say I have a great sense of dry humor. And two, I lost 90 pounds in about a year and a half.

Q. Are you going to go on another reality show?

A. Doubtful, but if the opportunity arose, I would jump at it. Casting producers want fresh faces, and even though the show wasn't a hit, I am still known around the reality show community. My favorite show in the world is The Amazing Race and going on that would be incredible.

Q. Are you going to use your newfound notoriety for anything?

A. Well, my blog readership has increased! I would love to be an advocate for something, but I still think celebrities - even lowly reality show celebrities like myself - are annoying when they talk about causes like they are some authority. I will share my opinions in the guise of this blog, and for now, that's all. Who knows what the future holds. If you had told me six months ago that I would have been on a reality show, I would have laughed. We'll see what God has in store for me.

Q. Did you get to do much tourism in Japan?

A. No. What you saw on the show is pretty much the extent of it, with a couple of little exceptions. I was there for a show, not a vacation. That's not to say I didn't have a blast though!

Q. What was your favorite game to play?

A. Big Baby Go Boom Boom - I think that's the name of it (I had the hardest time remembering the names of the games, and still do!) - it was so much fun. Jamie, Justin, and I would have gone again just for fun if they had let us. We lost the game, but seriously, so much fun!!

Q. What was your least favorite game to play?

A. Stuck on Golf - that sticky stuff was a pure nightmare.

Q. Did you get to keep the costumes?

A. Nope - they are all in waiting for future Majide victims.

Q. Was the host really that annoying?

A. Rome Kanda was incredible. He is animated - really animated - but he is so dedicated and so personable that I think all of the cast mates respect him greatly. No Rome hate allowed in my world, that's for sure!

Q. Is Majide a real show?

A. I don't want to be the authority on this question - but I do know the answer. Just Google it. Just remember how you felt when you found out about Santa.

Q. What would you have done with the money had you won?

A. As mentioned above, I would have loved to play in the WPT Main Event in Vegas. I would have tithed 10% to churches and charities I support. My dream vacation is to go on an African safari, so I would have done that for sure. The rest would have been boring bill-paying and saving. I'm practical like that, haha!

Okay, hopefully I covered everything!!! Be blessed.