What can I say? Blame it on vacation. It's a proven fact that people overcompensate on stuff missed when they were busy the first moment they have a chance. The list includes sleep, food, self-pampering, gimmicks, and yes, the boob tube. So here we go with the commentaries.

Introduction

[Mar 12 2005, 03:54 AM]

(Instruction: Read the following in Ryan Seacrest feeling-cool voice)

America has voted and they're down to 12. Who will follow in the footsteps of Kelly, Reuben, and Fantasia? Find out. Only here on American Idol.

On Mario Vasquez' Sudden Drop-out +

Initial Picks from the 12

[Mar 18 2005, 04:32 PM]

Sayang naman si Mario Vasquez! I like him pa naman. I really wonder why he disappeared from the show just like that. The stories going around are pretty interesting: a record deal offer, disagreement with the AI producers, gay nude photos all over the net, personal stuff, etc. Take your pick. Entertainment mongers are having a field day.

Anyway... Right now, I am rooting for the following people:

* Bo - I think that he and Constantine bring a unique dimension to American Idol since rockers sila. Constantine is ok but I think Bo sings better and he seems to be a more "genuine" rocker. Na-turn off kasi ako sa version ng "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic" ni Constantine. Bo is the real thing!

Rock n Roll Bo!

* Anwar - has one of the best voices, knows how to choose his songs, and as Simon says (hehe... parang game!) is "a really nice guy." Syempre hindi naman talaga dapat factor 'yun since it's a talent contest so talent comes first. Pero sa akin factor. Ayoko nung lalaki ang ulo. I guess it's part of charisma.

* Nadia and Vonzell - These girls just know how to work it!!! Actually, wala akong masyadong gusto sa girls nung una. Inisip ko nga unfair na kailangan 6-6 kasi halos lahat ng nakikita kong potential American Idol eh boys. But when they were cut down to 12 and nagsimula na sa todo biritan, these girls showed na kaya nilang makipagsabayan sa boys. They got the vocals, the showmanship, and even the fashion sense.

Who I want out:

* Mikalah Gordon - I found her cute nung start with her bubble personality and funny voice (talking that is, mala-Fran Drescher) pero now parang mayabang na asiwa na. Ewan ko. Something has changed talaga sa kanya.

TOTALLY HOT EPISODE

[Mar 24 2005, 06:01 AM]

Tonight's show was hot! Flamin'! I echo Randy in saying that the idol stars got their game on. The performances were great! It must have dawned on the contestants that this is big, that this is it, so they gave it their best.

I especially like the middle part. THE WINNERS in my opinion are:

* Bo Bice - Ngayon ko lang narinig 'yung "Time in a Bottle" but I fell in love with it when Bo sang it. Nung nag-start and it registered to me na ballad with accompanying strings ang kakantahin niya, medyo napa-uh-oh ako. but Bo proved that he could do a subdued number and still rock!!! Yeah! Bo is the man!!!

* Nikko Smith - The way he sang "Incomplete" did Sisqo's version justice. The dude had it going on!

* Vonzell Solomon - I've always thought Vonzell has a stand-out personality even if she is the dark horse in this contest. So to Simon's "For the first time, America will remember you" comment: No, Vonzell is not forgettable! But yes, America will especially remember her tonight! "Whoahoah... you got the best of my love... whoahoah" Sobrang saya ng performance niya! She lit the stage!

Vavoom Vonzell!

Kudos also to Carrie and Jessica! Their vocals brought the house down. And as Simon says, they've proven that the girls are determined to be at par with (and possibly even outdo) the boys. I'm not particularly fond of them but i must say, good job. I'm glad they are showing their stuff.

The rest were also good. Anwar, Anthony, Scott... The only loser for me is:

* Mikalah - She seemed so out of it! Parang sobrang distant and trying hard ng dating niya! Tsk tsk... Where has her spunk gone? Sa iba medyo ok pa eh kahit di sobrang galing.

I admit that I'm a bit disappointed with Nadia lalo na bet ko siya! Oversinging! Bawi lang sa showmanship, good intentions, determination, and fashion sense. Pero relatively ok pa rin. Layo sa pagkakalat ni Mikalah! So kahit papaano, in pa rin sa akin si Nadia! Sana lang next week she picks a good song.

Constantine's cover was admittedly ridiculous but it wasn't sooo bad. Carry pa rin niya.

Overall: I'd say Mikalah's bad number plus Nadia and Constantine's so-so performances are forgivable when weighed against the rest that were awesome. It was a very good show! Tanggalin na si Mikalah please para sobrang swak na sa mga next weeks... I hope the numbers get even hotter as there are fewer and fewer contestants left.

P.S. Natatawa ako kay Paula. Why the hell does she have to kiss Simon whenever he makes a positive comment? Wala lang, parang over ang pagkampi niya sa mga contestant... just the thought of kissing Simon... on televison pa... broadcasted in different countries... yuck! Girl, what are you thinking???

FRAN DRESCHER IS OUT!

[Mar 27 2005, 01:20 AM]

Yesss!!! Mikalah finally got eliminated!

Like I said, the girl showed a lot of promise at first with her personality. She was full of spunk and was so fun! But then, she got boring. With her last 2 or 3 awful performances, IMHO she deserves the boot.

From Fun, Funky, and Fabulous

To Boring and Bland as a Rock

PLAYING PAULA ABDUL AND RATING THE IDOLS

[Mar 31 2005, 03:17 AM]

I found tonight's show disappointing. A let-down considering how hot AI was last week. Konti lang ang "wow" performances. Maraming "ok lang."

Well, the theme was a bit boring to begin with... ho-hum... So maybe that's one factor. Akala ko pa naman "soundtrack of hit TV shows" 'coz that's what has been going around in forums. I sure hope they think of more creative themes next time. All the same, I'm gonna give my assessment like I did for the other episodes...

First up, Anwar... Sorry to Anwar fanatics but I've crossed him out of my favorite list seeing this week's show. He has a really good voice and a very pleasant demeanor but Randy Jackson is right. (I usually disagree with him and Paula since they're all praises and don't really listen but tonight he was correct most of the time.) Anwar does leave it up to the one big note in the end. He needs to pace the entire song, get into the entire performance. I really wish he'd wow me, wow us all, again.

Moving on from that. Vonzell and her big finale: wow!!! I've always believed in this girl. She has now officially moved up my favorite list to take Anwar's place. She is getting better and better. I've heard good versions of the song from past AIs and which is the best is subject to debate but hers was definitely a good one. To her "I have nothing... nothing... nothing!" I say, "Girl, you've got something... something... something!" She looked great too! She could actually pass off as a member of Destiny's Child. Go Vonzel!!!

Definitely Something!!!

Nadia - Another one of my faves! Good vocals and showmanship but I didn't like the song she sang that much. She has a tendency to be uber artistic and disregard melody and popular songs. That's gonna cost her.

Alternative Girl Nadia Turner

Constantine - Although I'm not crazy about him and I know a lot of people want him out because they say it's showmanship and not voice that's pulling him through, I gotta admit his rendition of "I Can't Make You Love Me" was great! He has got charms! I found him endearing despite myself.

Bo - Unfortunately, I didn't catch his performance as he was the first one. Heard he didn't do too well. Awww... too bad for Bo. Boo!

Anthony, the pretty boy - Ummm... just being honest here... the "feeling sexy" vibe and bright green shirt didn't quite work for me!

Scott and Nikko - Scott's "One Last Cry" had some good parts and some bad parts. He should be more consistent next time. Nikko is good and all but he comes across as boyband-ish to me with his song choices. They're both "just ok."

Carrie and Jessica - This is so weird. I know they are good but I just don't like them. I appreciate them when they perform well (like tonight, Carrie made use of her fantastic pipes!!!) but I don't feel for them. They somehow lack charisma... I remember thinking "This girl isn't only really really blonde, she's really really bland too" about Carrie when she dished out a perfect-notes-but-obviously-mechanical performance.

Who I think will be in the bottom three:

Anthony

Jessica

Scott

Who I think should be in the top three
(at least top five):

Vonzell

Bo

Anwar (yeah, he just has to recover the touch he lost)

ONE OF THE BLAND ONES OUT

[Apr 1 2005, 06:39 PM]

Nasa bottom 3 nga si Jessica Sierra. And she was the one voted out!

Well, in my opinion, like I mentioned before, bland kasi siya. You need to have appeal to develop a fan base 'coz votes are important. Kita mo si Constantine, he performs well sometimes and poorly other times pero andun pa rin. He has loads of fans kasi 'coz he knows how to work it. Medyo overstaying na nga but I must say deserve rin niya kahit papaano kasi like Simon points out, Constantine "know[s his] target audience and how to appeal to that target audience."

Isa pa talaga iyang si Carrie. Sorry to her fans. I respect your opinion. Kanya-kanya naman 'yan eh. Wala lang rin talaga siyang appeal sa akin like Jessica. Pero siguro rin it's 'coz I'm not really into country. But I do admit she sings well, maybe even the best notes-wise among the girls.

OBSERVATION ABOUT MUSIC

[Apr 3 2005, 05:47 PM]

A little something I've noticed: People are very different when it comes to preference in music.

It might set the stage for conflict but I like it that way. It gives us the benefit of so many artists, songs, albums, etc. Talk about setting creativity free!!! It'd be really boring (totally ho-hum ) if everyone liked the same thing.

I really find this fascinating. Don't you guys notice that while there is such a thing as universality (which is why so many songs have the same topics--ex. love, why there are "classics" and genres, etc.), people are very personal with their music? They have a particular taste and take that taste very personally. Sometimes they don't get other people's musical taste. And of course they think their fave songs are the best. It's so illogical but it's undeniable normal human behavior. And it's great. It's fantastic. We all just need to remember individuality and respect 24/7.

AI AWARDS

[Apr 3 2005, 05:47 PM]

If I could give out my own American Idol Awards, they'd be:

Best For Radio (ergo just close your eyes and enjoy the music... would get you into the mood if on the radio more than TV... but this is meant as a compliment 'coz he made it even though he's not very good-looking. I'd have him any day kaysa mga pretty dancers non-singers who have a totally undeserved flourshing career) : Scott Savol

Most Probably Gonna be turned into a Matinee Idol : Anthony Federov

My Fashion Sense Rocks : Vonzell Solomon

Putting the F in Fashion

My Fashion Sense Sucks : Anthony Federov, when he was wearing that bright green (or is it lime?) loose Ricky Martin-like polo... eek!

CONSTANTINE'S CHARMS + FAN BASE ISSUE

[Apr 8 2005, 05:54 PM]

Like a friend of mine put it, "Constantine knows how to flirt with the camera! Good strategy 'coz that'll make millions of phone-owning American girls support him."

My opinion of Constantine has always been that he is definitely not the best singer among the boys but he knows how to work what he has, namely charms and that musical-theater thing (which made last week's theme the perfect opportunity for him to capture even more hearts.)

We all see that it's really working. Gosh, even Paula said she's "falling in love with him." Must admit, he is endearing in some way. He's starting to grow on me. +++ points for Constantine!

"Smoldering Idol"
Source: Reality TV website

Moving on from "Smoldering Idol" as Simon tagged him, I just want to ask: Why the hell was Nikko voted out?!? And Vonzell part of the bottom 3????!!!! Argh!!!! What are these people thinking? I'd sure like to know.

While Nikko did have a pitchy start in that performance the votes were based on, I think there were others who gave even less satisfying performances. It just so happens that they have a larger fan base. Hello? Anthony Federov??? Sorry to his fans. I liked him in the auditions but his past performances clearly indicate that there are others who deserve the American Idol title better. And there is also Scott. Even Bo. (I like him but bad last 2 weeks). I really think Nikko deserves to stay for at least a week or two more. He brings a unique R&B flavor to the show. It was totally unfair!

FORD COMMERCIAL

[Apr 8 2005, 06:40 PM]

I just want to say ang ganda nung FORD commercial. 'Yung "Everybody's got something...." It's the best commercial bit I've seen for this season.

SOB STORY MY ASS!

[Apr 10 2005, 11:43 PM]

The sob story thing with Anthony Federov is going a bit too far.

While I do want a contestant with a sad story to win just to go prove dreams do come true and provide some inspiration, life story should only be one factor. There is talent, choice of song, image, and charisma too. We should go for the total package. "Star quality" in its total sense.

GO ANWAR, BO, CONSTANTINE, NADIA, AND VONZELL!!!

[Apr 10 2005, 11:43 PM]

I now have a fave five.

Anwar has taken the judges' comments seriously and improved. I'm glad for him. Gusto ko siya dati then na-bore na ako but now he's striking my interest again.

So right now, I think it's anybody's game. It would really depend on the choice of song and the strategy to get votes.

Go Vonzell! Baby V!

Go Bo! Raise your performance level. Not a very good past 2 weeks.

Go Nadia! Show 'em that class!

Go Anwar! Remember, whole song! Not just final big notes!

Go Constantine! Work it!

MY TOP TWO

[Apr 12 2005, 05:19 PM]

Someone asked me who is my one ultimate bet.

Hmmm... that's hard. But I'd say it's a toss between Bo and Vonzell.

Although I admit hindi solid and voice ni Vonzell. Medyo pitchy minsan. So i guess Bo. Pero kailangan niyang bumawi talaga.

AND THE GAME IS ON!!!

[Apr 13 2005, 08:05 PM ]

Baby V's hard work, good strategy, sweet demeanor, and determination finally paid off! As Paula says, she's like sunshine, some bright sweet light up that stage. Even Simon agrees that she's very likeable and that she's growing. Yey for Vonzell! You go girl!

Anwar is back in the game! It's great watching him deliver a complete song, a stunner not just for the last few parts but from start to finish!

And it's official. I've officially crossed the "like line" when it comes to Constantine. I'm including him in my bets. He's riding the contest so well, tapping on what works for him. The tough Simon acknowledged his growth in the competition. "Astonishing!" Can you believe that came out of the great critic's mouth?

As of April 13, this is my top five (I noticed that I change my mind a lot when it comes to bets in AI. I guess it's 'coz I have a basic like-dislike then I judge the individual performance. So this is bound to change. But anyway, just for now at least...):

* in random order *

Vonzell

Bo

Anwar

Nadia

Constantine

[Pattern: rockers, blacks, people with good showmanship and fashion sense, surprising/exciting/takes risks and shines]

So that leaves out Carrie, Scott, and Anthony. I don't have anything against them. It's just that I don't have anything FOR them either.

Carrie has a truly beautiful voice! She just really needs to work on her personality/image. I love Pat Benatar's "Love is a Battlefield" but I felt a certain lack with her interpretation. It appeared so forced.

I am honestly glad Anthony got back up the horse after being battered with "Hideous!" and lots of negative comments lately. Maybe he'll be safe this week. That's unless his numerous fans relax because he's got good reaction this week.

I am soooo not liking Scott right now. Confidence is one thing. Overconfidence is another. I don't know if it's just me but his response to the judges was just a tad bit hoity-toity.

I wonder what tomorrow's elimination has in store for us and the Idols.

A UNIQUE WINNER + ON SIMON COWELL

[Apr 14 2005, 06:09 PM]

I'm really hoping the winner of this season is a unique talent. We already have a pop/ballad belter in Kelly, an R&B hommie in Reuben, and a diva in Fantasia. It would be nice to get a treat in the form of a different sound and an exciting personality!

Cruel (but Correct) Simon, Pretty Paula, and "Keepin' it REAL" Randy

On Simon: My initial impression of him was "What a prick!!!" I really didn't like the way he put contestants down, especially his truly hurtful metaphors and blunt show of dislike.

But as I got more familiar with the show and learned how to "really listen" to the performances (ergo look at the notes, take note of all the aspects of the performance, compare, study the strategy, etc.), I've realized that although he can be a meanie, he is indeed right most of the time.

The guy knows what he's talking about. That is especially in comparison to Randy and Paula. (Well, Randy at least tries to "keep it real" sometimes. But Paula is... babbling... and over in her support.)

So now I tend to listen to Simon to get the real score. And most of the time (not every time!) I agree. He can be biased at times (example: pimping Carrie) but he fundamentally speaks the truth, what other judges cautious of how the public would react to them dare not say.

So I guess this is what I can say about Simon: Don't dismiss him and his musical judgment. Just make sure that at the end of the day, it's still you who decides how you feel about each contestant. Just take his advice in stride.

NADIA VOTED OUT!

[Apr 16 2005, 10:30 PM]

And my top five becomes four...

Unfortunately, it's curtain call for the funky, sultry, and sexy Nadia.

Buh-bye Nadia!

Even though I don't want her to go, I can see why she has to go. The competition is getting tougher and tougher. So the contestants need to keep coming up with something to please the viewers in order to get the votes they need. Sadly, Nadia didn't make the viewers and their votes priority.

My diagnosis: Nadia is too avante-garde. When the theme was Billboard 100 hits, she said that it wasn't her kind of thing, that she was into less popular artsy songs. She proved it by going for not-that-melodious songs almost all the same. And last week, she showed the same non-conformity. Even Randy Jackson didn't recognize the song. The result is that voters didn't find her very endearing.

It sucks... But I guess it's a lesson. Yes, we should go for what we want, express our individuality, not be chained down by norms. BUT (it's a big but) we should also recognize our undeniable connection to others and somehow keep them in mind.

Tsk, tsk... so unfortunate! But that's the way it goes...

Bye-bye Nadia!

ASIA VOTES

[Apr 21 2005, 04:03 PM]

Here are the results of this week's ASIA VOTES:

1. Constantine

2. Carrie

3. Bo

* hindi pinakita 'yung gitna *

* tapos last si Vonzell*

---------------------------------------------------------

Huh??? Di ko gets!

Kaya ba #1 sa atin si Constantine eh dahil ang mga nagbo-bother to text dun eh mga nag-bo-bother mag-text sa reality artista searches here? I'm not generalizing but Asians especially Filipinos are said to have a penchant for believing the image and supporting the underdog, mapa-politika o entertainment. Ang image ba ni Constantine ang nakapagpataas sa kanya? Don't get me wrong. I like Constantine and I do think patok siya sa taste ng Asia. But #1??? I want to know why. Didn't the people catch the performances? While he was good, he wasn't that great last night. There are far more deserving people. Siguro nung week ng musicals, I'd have voted for him to be top one, but not this week. Bo and Vonzell delivered the best performances sa disco music show.

Wawa talaga si Baby V., magaling pero wala masyadong fans. Ganda pa naman ng "I'm every woman" niya. She's so full of personality. Is this a bias against blacks? Medyo nasa lower half rin kasi sa asia votes si Anwar.

I'm really curious sa voting pattern na ito. Sobrang fan-driven. I've said before na importante talaga ang fans. I claim that until now. Pero kakaiba ito. Exag na! Parang hindi na nag-ma-matter ang show!!! Hindi lang 'yung basta endearing ang performance kaya undoubtedly nagustuhan ng tao. Naging "suportahan ang sariling manok" type na. Naging mas mataas pa si Carrie with her horrendous hairdo and totally unergetic performance (which totally misses the point of the disco theme) kaysa kay Bo na walang makakakontrang best for the night.

MY TOP FIVE BECOMES THREE a.k.a. ANWAR... OUT! NOOOOOO!!!!!

[Apr 21 2005, 04:58 PM]

Okay... now I'm really baffled sa taste ng America.

Why oh why did Anwar have to go?????????

Anwar: Didn't last 'til "September"

Hindi man best ang performance niya, it was pretty good. What I got from watching him is this feeling na parang mas free siya, mas into the performance.

Issue kaya ang rumors na bading siya? Kung totoo man iyon eh hindi ako magugulat. But then again hindi naman dapat factor 'yun. Boses po!!! Hindi sexual orientation!!! O talaga lang konti ang fans niya? That brings me to question those who are still in dahil lamang sa fans at sobrang hindi dahil sa talent.

Kainis talaga! I think Anwar very much deserves to stay longer.

LOKOHAN IDOL

[Apr 29 2005, 05:58 PM]

I'm starting to get really bored with "American Idol," especially now that its rival "The Amazing Race" is getting more and more exciting.

Unlike TAR kasi where teams make it or get eliminated based largely on their performance and just partly because of luck, I am seeing that performance matters less and less while fan base + politics (the messy, evil kind) matters more and more sa AI. Although syempre, hindi naman natin masisisi since search for a star ito so boto ang importante. Pero kasi naman, sumosobra na. I'm slightly uncomfortable sa ganung set-up kahit I find AI a good show considering the basic concept.

Ano ba kasi ang nangyayari?

Una, natanggal si Anwar! *boo*

Tapos si Constantine! *boo*

At natira pa si Scott! *boo, boo, boo*

I found this week's show with the 2000-2005 theme hardly worth viewing (thus, the lack of a commentary for that one) with half of the Idols delivering sub-par numbers. But the elimination was worse.

I am not a die-hard Constantine fan although I do like him and he's one of my bets. And I did think that he didn't do that Nickelback song justice. He ineffectively shifted back to rocker mode after impressing everyone with his more dramatic and more likeable song choices. But still, there was some showmanship.

And that is in comparison to the sucky performance of Scott and Carrie's so-so already-been-done-before country shtick. Of course, I didn't count on the bland blonde to be voted out because she has loads of fans. But for her to be part of the top three whilst great-performance not-so-many-fans Vonzell as well as better-performance-than-Carrie and has-a-relatively-strong-fan-base Anthony are in the bottom is baffling. Multiply the bafflement a thousand times and that's how I feel about Scott. Kasama pa sa top 3 after such a horrendous performance! I think Simon nailed it when he commented "Pack your bags" and whoever didn't see that is blind aside from tone-deaf.

Tsaka kasi kung papipiliin ako between two singers na parehong hindi as super galing as the other vocalists and their performance for the week hindi gaano kaayaaya pero 'yung isa may charisma at 'yung isa wala, eh di doon na ako sa may charisma. At least nakaka-entertain with his personality at may showmanship.

Constantine
I'd take him any day over Scott!

Oh America, how do you vote? And why do vote that way? I really wanna know: who are you putting in the top 3?

At this point, I think Bo and Carrie are good bets for the finale. Although I'm personally rooting for Bo and Vonzell. Sana Vonzell makes it kahit sa third spot lang kasi improving naman siya at magaling performances kahit di siya kasing sikat ng iba.

Top Five:
From this roster will rise THE AMERICAN IDOL

Kapag nakapasok pa si Scott sa top three, pakitawagan si Janay (for those who can't remember, Janay is the black teenager na mukhang tuod at parang frozen on stage each time kumakanta siya, sobrang painful panoorin!) and let's turn this into "Lokohan Idol."

CROSS-COMMENTARY

[May 7 2005, 05:32 PM]

Thank you very much America!

I'm satisfied with this week's performance and elimination shows. The competition of the final four is one to watch out for.

------------------------------

Cross-Commentary (Wednesday performance vis-a-vis Thursday results) of each contestant in order of appearance:

Anthony: I'm not familiar with his first song "Poison Ivy" so I couldn't tell if he had pitch problems or not. I'd say the number is okay, but just okay. Ho-hum.

It was his second number that surprised me. He did a Backstreet Boys ballad for the current Billboard hit category, whoah! I didn't think Anthony was that much of a pop star! Hehehe... ;P But I agree with Simon, the song suited him. I'm sure it made his teenage girls fanbase very happy.

For making up in the second performance after not-very-good comments when he first came out on stage, I'd say the birthday boy is worthy of his birthday gift.

Scott: I loved that first song! He showed fighting spirit and class in doing "On Broadway" to get back at Simon. I'm handing Scott major props for that one. Way to go!!!

Telling Simon he ain't packing his bags and giving up
'til he gets on Broadway

Too bad his second song was a bit off. He just might have pulled off another "escape" if that had been good. While he got the R&B vibe, the general performance was sub-par from the original.

I do think he deserves the boot. He deserved it weeks ago. So I'm glad he finally got it. I must say thought that things turned out well for him. At least people would remember him for that great, fun, feisty last performance! It did cap his "American Idol" adventure well. For that, I'm happy for him. Buh-bye Scottie!

Vonzell: Maybe I am biased because I'm a fan but I really could not and up to now cannot see how Simon found her 2 numbers a mess. They looked and sounded pretty good to me!

Vonzell's bright personality came out with that catchy Elvis tune. Though I don't think her vocals were perfect for the Billboard current hit like Randy Jackson claims, it was pretty close to perfect. I just love Vonzell!!!

America disagreed with Simon. Yey! In my opinion, Vonzell wasn't vulnerable that Wednesday night and she very much deserves to be a part of the final four.

Bo and Carrie: I'm evaluating them together 'coz they performed the same and got the same results.

For their good song choices, fantastic vocals, aesthetically-pleasing look, and "American Idol" fire, they both received the ticket to become THE IDOL they had coming. I wouldn't be surprised if we get a Bo-Carrie finals.

Country Girl Carrie: Though Boring, Very Consistent

BETS

[May 11 2005, 01:27 AM]

Marami-rami na sa mga gusto ko ang natanggal--sina Anwar, Nadia, at Constantine. Hopefully di na matanggal ibang bets ko.

My preferred order:

4. Anthony

3. Carrie

2. Vonzell*

1. Bo*

* interchangeable, kahit sino sa 2 manalo masaya ako

But I think hindi likely matupad ang order na gusto ko kasi I'm basing that from my own degree of like for the contestants.

I think it'll be:

4. Vonzell

3. Anthony

2. Bo

1. Carrie

That's just what I think AS OF NOW. Syempre mas madali to assess then analyze the outcomes upon seeing the show and taking note of the AI environment (fanbase, politics, theme for the week, etc.)

I just hope this season is worth watching and that it produces a quality Idol.

BUH-BYE BABY V!!!

[May 20 2005, 05:53 PM]

Waaahhhh!!!! Out na si Baby V! :(

Ang saya-saya ko pa naman when she made it to the final five at nung nakalusot siya from Anthony's fanbase to enter final three.

So predictable ang Bo-Carrie. According to fanbase and the build-up ng makers ng AI that is. But it's not exciting! For me at least. Sobrang mechanical ni Carrie. Maganda na sa kung maganda ang boses. And she does have the pop star look. Pero walang feelings. Walang spirit. I feel like mas mukhang battle/exciting match kung Bo-Vonzell showdown.

Hay naku... GO BO!!!

AI TURNED UPSIDE DOWN!

[May 26 2005, 09:35 AM]

After seeing last night's show, napa-"Whhhhaaaaaatttttt the hell happened?" ako.

I like Bo exactly because he has spirit and a signature style. He exudes confidence and rocker spunk sa performances niya kaya nga siya unique and very likeable.

Tapos kagabi ganun.

Ano kaya nangyari? Sa lahat naman ng show na pwedeng i-botch up, eh itong crucial one pa.

Tapos it's the opposite for Carrie. Medyo may feelings na siya ngayon. Bland blonde no more!

Parang nabaligtad ang mundo and I can't help but feel na planado ng AI team. Too much of a coincidence kasi na na-reverse ang performance style nilang 2 eh.

Kung sabagay, between the two of them, it's Carrie who needs the title. She has the look and the voice pero di pa enough para ma-package siya ng maayos. A title would in that aspect. Si Bo naman pwedeng ma-offer-an na agad ng contract and he'll sell records with or without the title.

I'm not saying for certain na rigged ang AI. Baka nga nag-succumb sa pressure si Bo kaya siya naging sablay or super gumaling si Carrie dahil motivated. Theory ko lang na may foul play.

I hope for AI's credibility that the deserving person based on the performance from start to finish wins!

OKAY... WHATEVER!

[May 26 2005, 12:32 PM]

Hay naku.... kainis ang results! Mas ok talaga ang CBS with TAR this season kaysa AI... pero sige na nga...

CONGRATULATIONS CARRIE!

Kung sabagay, the girl has the face and the talent. Sana lang talaga those handling her maisip na ipa-undergo siya sa image/personality/style enhancement program at nang hindi siya nakakabato.

But for me... BO IS THE IDOL!!!

Anyway, nasa after the contest naman yan if they succeed or not.

Note: Posts have been edited to suit blog format. For the original version and/or to participate in a discussion about the show, visit:

Here are some commentaries I posted on iNEXUS (kinda got into the habit of posting my ideas and feelings there since my blog was down) about the best adventure show on cable TV. Go gaga over the latest season of "The Amazing Race" with me.

INTRODUCTION

[Feb 11 2005, 12:08 AM]

They have traveled all around the world. They have completed a lot of tasks, not letting roadblocks stop them. Couples have fought, couples have learned to appreciate each other. Jerry Bruckheimer already has 6 seasons under his belt. And now there's a new one. Welcome to the wonder known as "The Amazing Race!"

PILOT EPISODE + AND THEN THERE WERE TEN

[Mar 10 2005, 03:15 AM]

Season 7 has just began.

So far so good. I enjoyed it. Different players and different locations but same old "Amazing Race" brand of fun.

I must say though that I didn't expect the driver guys to be booted out first.

I thought that their driving skills would come in handy and that they'd be good for challenges that require lack of kaartehan. However, as it turns out, weight is a far more important factor. The two couldn't run fast so they hit the mat last. Too bad for them. But anyway...

The teams I wanna win:

* Debbie and Bianca - They're smart nice girls who obviously have a strong bond. They kicked everyone's butt for the first leg of the race!!!

* Lynn and Alex - the gay couple who provide lots of humor to the show

* Meredith and his wife Gretchen - (Got confused. Apparently Meredith is a guy! Poor guy being names like that!) I have a soft spot in my heart for the oldie team. Though I know that they're at a disadvantage when strength is considered, I like them for the love and understanding they exhibit in comparison to bickering young couples.

* Uchenna and Joyce - To represent the blacks! They're the symbol of the marginalized here. And they do need the money with their problems and all!

The team I don't wanna win:

* Only one actually. Just Rob and Amber. I don't like all the deceit and cut throat competition they showed on "Survivor" and are now showing in "The Amazing Race."

Everyone else is fair game to me.

Can't wait to catch episode 2.

AND THEN THERE WERE TEN

[Mar 11 2005, 06:52 PM]

Grabe, foot race na naman to the finish!

The blonde girls are out.

Ok lang... Wala lang.
I didn't really think they would last too long.

ON THE EVIL KNOWN AS TEAM ROMBER

[Mar 18 2005, 05:05 PM]

I can see why some people would root for Rob and Amber (a.k.a. ROMBER). Oo nga, they're competitive and thus they make the game more exciting.

Pero I stand firm on my dislike. I'll watch them--after all, they're interesting to watch--but I won't support them. Gusto ko manalo people who are truly deserving.

AND THEN THERE WERE EIGHT

[Mar 18 2005, 05:05 PM]

Grabe, hindi ko akalaing matatanggal sina Debbie and Bianca.

The Strong Babes a.k.a. My Superfaves

NOOOOO!!!!!!!! I love them. Tsaka sila pa naman ang first place sa first leg. Sayang naman! I really feel they could've gone a long way. They have the strength, the wits, the bonding, the charisma. Shucks, this is what's bad with TAR, isang malas na mali lang like mawala, wala ka na!

DIE YE EVIL ONES + AND THEN THERE WERE SEVEN

[Mar 24 2005, 06:50 AM]

Ugh, now I have even more reason to dislike Rob and Amber! I concede... ang galing ng schemes nila. But it's really not endearing. Not the least bit.

Ang masasabi ko lang sa episode tonight:

* Sobrang malas nina Alex and Lynn. Grabe, sayang! They had the advantage and they got it going pero minalas talaga sila. Ayon nga kay alex, "Well, luck is part of the game. What can you do?"

* Parang kulang dahil wala ang tough chicks na sina Debbie and Bianca! I sure would have loved to see Debbie telling that assh*le Rob off one more time!

* Feeling ni Ray!!! 'Yung mga comments niya about the oldies sobrang reflective of a pathetic need to be taught some manners. Sobra kung magsalita, hindi naman magaling. He doesn't deserve to be grouped with those at the bottom raw eh quitter naman siya! FYI Ray, nasa last teams kayo kasi 'di niyo kinain 'yung 4 pounds of meat. So you do deserve to be there. Ha! Kainis!

* Ibang klase ang bouts ng mother and gay son. Fighting again and again with one clinging on to every bit of hope while the other having adopted a "realistic" view and given up, I'm not surprised they lost.

I'm looking forward to next week's episode. Exciting ang preview. May nahulog at nagdugo. May car accident. Totoo kaya 'yun or nasa editing lang nila like 'yung nahulog si Uchenna sa horse? Whether its true or hyped up, ka-abang-abang!

SUPER AMAZING EPISODE + AND THEN THERE WERE SIX

[Mar 31 2005, 03:55 AM]

This week's show is to date THE BEST AND MOST EXCITING EPISODE OF THE AMAZING RACE 7!!!!!

Kaya naman pala special back-to-back 2 hours.

Sobrang dami kong comment. I don't know where to start. O.M.G.! Here we go:

* Ang tindi ng kapangyarihan ng KARMA!!! After saying things like "I'm not letting a 70-year-old man and his wife beat me. Not even in checkers. No matter what, we've got them beat..." and "These people are not in our game level (something to that effect)" Ray and Deana got what they deserve! A boot out! Sobrang saklap pa. From first place (which they only got 'coz they got lucky with a FAST FORWARD) to last place! Bwahahahahaha!!!! Nalampasan sila ng previously last place and na-aksidente pang old couple na linalait nila. By two levels! Not one! But two! Serves 'em right! Yabang kasi ni Ray eh. All talk naman. Parating pinapagalitan si Deana pero si Deana naman gumagawa ng majority ng tasks, lalo na mahihirap.

* I now have sobrang respect for Meredith and Gretchen. Inisip ko talaga matatanggal na sila but they were able to hang on for two more legs. I doubt they'll get far pa (siguro 1 or a few episodes na lang) but I think that they've already achieved so much. For one, considering that they're old and minamaliit ng iba at tinatayaang matanggal, they stayed on quite long. Secondly, kahit na-aksidente tuloy pa rin. Moreover, with no money and no possessions they survived pa. Ibang klase talaga!!! And they're always so kind to everybody, so supportive of each other (unlike Ray and Deana who bicker 90% of the time), and so determined kahit nasa bottom pack na. I wish them all the best! Kahit ma-eliminate na sila, they've proven their worth.

* The brothers are starting to grow on me. They're so funny kasi. I like 'yung maling sulat sa clue, yung "Go home to your mother, give her a nice warm hug, eat all the enchaladas you can until you enter a food coma..." Haha!!! Kulit talaga! Tapos yung T-shirts pa na binili nila sa kids WWF. Dami nila hirit all throughout the show.

* Lynn and Alex gain points in my book for saying "We're people first, racers second." Tsaka "The money is the prize but being here is a price in itself (something to that effect)." They gain even more points by living up to it. It was awfully nice of them to go down the car and the brothers out when the truck flipped over. Yes, it's a race pero what's a few minutes naman to check up on people's safety/people's lives? Sobrang bow ako sa kanila for that.

* And super minus sa already negative impression ko kay Rob and Amber for simply passing by (hello, kahit binuksan lang window for ONE FRIGGIN' MINUTE like the rest of the teams did just to ask, "Are you ok?" Wala talagang konsensiya! Ano kaya kung sila ma-aksidente!!!) It's one thing to be strategic. It's one thing to want to win. But it's another to be mean, manipulative, and downright evil!

* Pansin ko rin, ROMBER are not really as "great" players as some people think they are/make them up to be. Ako lang ba nakakapansin? Rob sucks at tasks and he always chooses the "more sissy" one. Sure, they have moments! Like the taking-books-to-the-library move but for the most part, hindi sila kagalingan. Mas tough pa nga yung POW tsaka si Uchenna. Rob was last sa shooting arrows thing. Naunahan pa ni grandpa tsaka ni Joyce! 'Yung sa ibang nakakalamang sila, they're only able to do so because they use their fame in getting people to help them. I guess what I'm trying to say is that they are good but only in comparison to the other players and because of lucky breaks. But they are in no way exceptional. AR is different from "Survivor" you meanies! Stop injecting it in.

"Surving" the Race

* Natawa lang ako kay Joyce. Kasi dun sa shopping, sabi niya agad kay Uchenna "I don't want to do it. You do it." Pero volunteer naman siya sa arrows. Kakaibang babae! Hahahaha...

* Andaming "evening the game out" points sa 2 leg na ito. Long waits, same bus ride for all, activities by batch, etc. Siguro the producers are spicing it up. Gotta admit that it's working. This has got to be the closest and most exciting season! Paiba-iba talaga positions ng mga teams.

* Questions lang po: Bakit wala pa ulit yield? Bakit kaya nagbago rule sa non-elimination? (pati naman gamit! sobrang kawawa ng players) Hindi ba 3-4 ang non-elimination? (eh di malamang meron next week matatanggal after nun non-elimination ng baka 2 sunod. hmmm....)

Whew! haba na nito! Anyway, to wrap up, basta for me astig talaga ang episode na ito! Thrice ko pinanood. Palipat-lipat ako ng konti sa "American Idol" pero objectviely, as fans ng pareho, natabunan ng AR ang AI this week.

FAMEWHORES VS. GAYS

[Mar 31 2005, 09:44 PM]

Fact 1: Lynn and Alex hate Rob and Amber.

Fact 2: Rob and Amber hate Lynn and Alex

The result = more competition

Thus more excitement for us viewers! So yipee! Magpatayan lang sila! Sige lang. Hehehe... Joke!

ON THE CONTESTANTS

[Apr 1 2005, 06:32 PM]

I just love dissecting and discussing the episodes.

I actually wasn't looking forward to the summary. But since there are never-before-seen footage included, I'm interested. I wonder what the contestants do in "lull times" like waiting sa airport. And i want to see them do/say crazy things.

Sa totoo lang kasi, sa last episode lang nag-focus talaga and we learned a lot about the contestants. That's when we've seen the oldies' strength and determination, Uchenna and Joyce's soft side, Lynn and Alex and Brian and Gregg's closeness to each other, etc. I want more of that.

I've only noticed the POW and pageant queen Ron and Kelly recently. Actually, they're kinda good. Silent workers. But kinda boring. I hope they spice things up.

The brothers are definitely funny. I bet they're good company.

TOP FIVE + SUMMARY

[Apr 8 2005, 07:08 PM]

I really really like this season. Panalo! Usually kasi at this point, the game gets a little boring na tapos magpi-pickup na lang ulit ang pace when it's already the final 3. But nooo! Daming exciting na nangyayari. Parang buhok na ginamitan ng *toot* shampoo, it just keeps getting better and better. Hehe...

First off, kaka-windang naman 'yun! 2 teams ang nagkamali at pinabalik. Akalain niyo ba? Exag!

Meredith and Gretchen keep their cool as they
go back for a clue missed

Buti na lang pasok pa rin sila. I really like Uchenna and Joyce. That couple shows strength and teamwork sa mga challenges. I mean, wow! They were the only ones who were able to do the native "carry it" task. That's aside from Uchenna being the first to finish the 4 lbs. of assorted meat eating task some episodes back. I like Meredith and Gretchen too because of the determination they are showing. It's quite something that they made it this far considering their age and the penalty from the last non-elimination. Paulit-ulit kong sasabihin, kahit matanggal na sila sa next episode, astig na talaga sila para makaabot ng ganito.

Pero sa computation ko, non-elim next week.

*praying for the oldies to keep holding on*

Secondly, I'm sad that the brothers were eliminated. Dang! Wish this was a non-elimination leg. Would B&G really have finished the race with only their boxers on? Scary but amusing thought. ;P

They'd definitely go down as one of the most lovable and funny players. I know maraming may favorite sa kanila. Tsaka benta sa marami mga jokes nila. They're consistently fun! Got booted out in style! Say niyo?!?

Lynn and Alex were also very funny putting layers of clothes on feeling na mahuhuli sila at non-elimination ito. Sabay sila, "What???" when Phil announced they're team #4.

Kulit talaga ng mga players na ito! Making fashion statements and coming up with so many quotable quotes.

On the summary episode:

Mas lalo lang ako nabuwisit sa ROMBER seeing how dinaya nila ang super bet kong sina Debbie and Bianca. (I missed the early half of that epi kasi) Kainis talaga! How could Rob put a straight face on the time the girls were being very kind and diplomatic nakikipagbati when he knows na may ginawa siyang masama sa kanila? Evil talaga! Hindi 'yan mananalo. Makakaabot siguro sa top 3 but karma will find a way. Mala-Colin and Christie. The good players, the truly deserving people, will push through!

On the lighter/non-hating side... naging close pala talaga sina B&G sa blondies. Yihee! I want to see them together sa finale ng TAR.

Last 5 teams in!!! I'm counting on 2 more non-elims so there's an extension in someone's stay, a yield, and harder challenges! So excited!!!

Non-Pit Stop Surprise

[Apr 13 2005, 07:59 PM]

Wow! That non-pit stop thing came as a surprise!

What's happening? In my computation, this leg is supposed to be a non-elimination one. Have the producers decided to make the leg worth two legs so that instead of having two non-elim rounds that would leave two unfortunate teams with no resources, there is a better chance to make up ground and there would only be one losing team (but one that is deserving of being stripped of money and things)? Or are they merely extending the season by an episode?

If it's the former, I like it 'coz that's fair and it would provide more excitement. But if there's a different big twist, I dunno. Might be good news or bad news for my fave and hate teams. Oooohhhh, I'm so curious. What's up with this?

Anyway, my observations/comments/reactions:

* The new alliances:

[Rob and Amber

+

Ron and Kelly]

[Lynn and Alex

+

Uchenna and Joyce

+

Meredith and Gretchen]

Very very interesting! Spices things up...

* It was awfully nice of Lynn and Alex to help Meredith and Gretchen out. I also like they way they're so patient with each other. If only they don't encounter bad luck that much... It's like unfortunate circumstances are naughtily seeking them out.

* It was weirdly nice that the Indians welcomed the granny team so warmly. But why only them? Is it 'coz they are last? 'Coz they are old? 'Coz they're the most liked? So strange. But nice just the same. I know I wouldn't mind an entire mob of people waving at me, shaking my hands, cheering, and asking for autographs. Hehe... ;)

* It is enjoyable watching ROMBER and Ron and Kelly think of ways to stab each other even if they are working together. Hahaha... Rob just always finds ways of showing his cunning. Why does he feel the need to broadcast his lack of morals on international TV? Why oh why? He just had to say that he found Ron and Kelly's decision to not yield them stupid. He just had to open his big evil mouth and say he would have yielded the POW and pageant queen if he and Amber got to the yield mat first! Wow, how very Rob! What can we expect from a person like that? Sorry to his fans. I commend ROMBER for being one of the top contenders but I really am not ok with the way they play the game. It's such a testament to the kind of people they are.

Moving on, let's talk about the preview:

* A party? Maybe that's the explanation for the non-pit stop. Maybe there's just a halt to the AR tasks.

* If I caught that right, Meredith was already raising his voice at Gretchen! Whoah, that's a first! Hope it's just a "Leave it up to me" temporary bout. It's so not like them. Fighting is so unnecessary, a dent on the relationship and a waste of time-bad for the task.

BUNCHING UP + ENERGIZER BUNNIES + MY BETS

[Apr 20 2005, 03:30 PM]

Now there's only one team to be eliminated before the climactic final three... This show just keeps on getting better and better!

* On the non-pitstop/non-elimination twist

I'm happy that it was a continuing leg so the oldies didn't get the boot. I'm really rooting for them now. Plus, all the remaining teams got to rest a little and party with the locals. Fun! Fun! Fun! Tsaka nag-bunch up pa (read: bunching up = more competition). I really like this twist. In your face ROMBER!

* Fast forward

Ooohh... that was some fast forward!

Joyce undergoing a Hindu good luck ritual:
Off with the hair!

I gotta hand it to Joyce for being very brave and allowing herself to be shaved bald. Though Uchenna was communicating support for his wife (with the way he asked "Are you ok with this?" again and again it was obvious that he didn't want her to go through something she did not want to do), she still went ahead and did the sacrifice for the benefit of their team. They rightfully deserve being first place.

If I were in Joyce's shoes, I'm not sure what I would have done. Maybe I'd have panicked or something. So I really give her the props... Way to go Joyce!!!

Just entertaining some what-if thinking: I think Amber wouldn't have done it. The pretty pageant queen Kelly certainly wouldn't have. In fact, I think if it was Kelly there, she would have thrown a fit and said stuff like "I'm a pageant queen! No way am I letting my beautiful brown hair go!" or something equally maarte. The gays would think its a fashion crime. The only team that I think would even consider it are the oldies. Game na game kasi si Gretchen! But even that is unsure since they didn't have to decide. So I really think Joyce was awesome for having done what she did! And in a super-determined, no fuss way pa!

* Energizer Bunny

Ang tatag talaga nina lolo at lola! Now they're officially the oldest team to have made it that far.

Grabe... ako talaga dreading but expecting their elimination mula noong 7 teams pa. I'm so glad they've proven me wrong thrice. Nakakapit pa rin sila. They have earned all the "Amazing Race" viewers' respect. *my hats off*

I think their magic formula is their good relationship with each other. Hardly nag-aaway (Iyon lang medyo sumigaw si Meredith nung nasa camel but that's understandble 'coz he was in the heat of a situatin tapos Gretchen laughed it off lang and they continued being sweety-sweety), parati silang understanding and supportive. Hayyy... ang swerte nila to be so old and have each other... I really won't forget the time Gretchen fell in the cave and they still kept on going. Tsaka 'yung Gretchen asked for a hug when she was getting frustrated finding the clue in the boxes last episode. Naaalala ko lolo at lola ko. Matanda na pero walang patid ang pagmamahalan.

I'm also starting to dig Gretchen's weird granny humor and her spunk. Count her shrill makulit voice in pa!

* Lynn and Alex

Awww... so sad to see them go.

They're one of my top 3 teams pa naman out of the five. I'm guessing (though hoping my guess is wrong) na matatanggal na oldies before final 3. Badtrip nun. Ayokong manalo sina bwisit ROMBER. Okay na rin sina Ron and Kelly pero medyo boring and petty sila. In that case, Uchenna and Joyce na ako.

Haaayyy... nawala na mga gusto kong sina Debbie and Bianca, Brian and Greg, at Lynn and Alex. *sadness* I'm just hoping my other bets Meredith and Gretchen and Uchenna and Joyce hang on a little longer.

The question on every TAR fan's mind: Who will make it to the end???

A very disturbing yet exciting question it is. I can't wait to find the answer out.

EXTENDED POST ON THE EXTENDED LEG

[Apr 21 2005, 02:50 PM]

Additional comments on the extended leg... brought about by watching a replay of the episode...

I'm torn between happiness for Meredith and Gretchen tsaka sadness for Lynn and Alex. Pero ganyan talaga eh. Malas nila at nagkandawala-wala sila.

Pero at least maganda ang pag-exit nila sa show. Like my other favorites Debbie and Bianca tsaka Brian and Greg and very unlike 'yung mga hindi ko masyadong gustong team namely all-talk-no-action Ray and Deana and forever-bickering Susan and Patrick, they truly enjoyed the race. They played clean and embodied the TAR spirit. Plus, their relationship with each other became stronger. That is a prize in itself. So i guess we fans should still feel happy for them.

On the elephant challenge:

* Si Kelly, dahil maganda, tinulungan agad ng locals. O di ba? ;) Nagamit rin niya ang pagiging pageant queen niya. Hahaha... Winner! :) Tsaka in fairness magaling siya nung nagkasabay sila ni Amber sa camel. She made Amber eat her dust! Sa episode na ito ko lang medyo nagustuhan si Kelly. It was probably 'coz she wasn't whining tsaka magaling siya sa mga task. Sana ganito na ang ipakita niya sa susunod. Although I'm doubtful kasi sa preview eh she has Ron cornered with talk on commitment. Awayan kaya ito?

* Sina Meredith and Gretchen, pansin niyo ba na puro bata ang tumulong? Sa ibang team medyo mixed pero sa kanila puro bata. I wonder tuloy. Does it have anything to do with the fact that they're old? Baka malapit ang loob sa kanila kasi nga grandpa and grandma.

* Tawa ako ng tawa kina Lynn and Alex when they said, "Gretchen, you look fabulous up there!" Bading na bading talaga! Funny! :)

* I won't even say anything about Rob shouting at the kids and forcing them to push. Let me quote, "It's hard organizing Indian child labor!" Ay, no comment na nga. mahirap na. Just regard it as an additional clue as to why i don't like him.

KARMA

[Apr 29 2005, 04:56 PM]

Karma proves to be the best contestant in "The Amazing Race" as it catches up to the four remaining teams and gives each of them their just desert.

----------------------------------------------

Karma has once again retaliated for the always-bashed-but-cannot-be-broken old couple Meredith and Gretchen.

M&G the Energizer Bunnies :
Breaking TAR record and proving detractors wrong

I am sensing some kind of a pattern here.

Ray and Deana were the first to taste the curse. After saying nasty remarks about M&G and even misleading them during a challenge, the snooty Ray and pushover Deana were booted off.

Next in line were brothers Brian and Greg. They made the mistake of uttering an innocent but nonetheless qualified as against-the-oldies comment during the start of a leg. They said that being the last to leave and with M&G being the ones directly in front of them, they'd love to "take [the couple] out." They weren't able to do so as they hit the mat last.

Lynn and Alex followed. The gays were very helpful at first, even including the 70-year-old man and his wife in their plans to catch a flight. But they did say those two are "stupid" during the milk-the-goat challenge. And when the boyfriends were racing against the grannies for the last slot, the former expressed a wish for the latter to get lost or be far behind. It was Lynn and Alex who came down on the wrong palace before finding the real pit stop. They got bad news from Phil.

And for this episode, ROMBER were bestowed the say-something-bad-about-M&G-and-you'll-pay-for-it curse.

Of course, this is all just a theory. It rose up from observations of the previous episodes and an exchange of ideas we have in another TAR thread. But it's really interesting how those who say bad things about others and wish others bad luck get the ball of luck reversed.

Linked with the first karma action of retaliation, karma caught up to Rob to shove what the guy had coming to himself right up his ass.

Finally!!! Oh, Rob being "punished" for all his scheming and evil antics is such a joy to witness! :) :) :) He had his comeuppance! And it came hard! And it was all-over international television! Hahahaha... :lol:

* pardon me from being mean and enjoying this, I just really really don't like Rob and dishonest people in general *

Rob tried to mess with Gretchen by asking her if they got in the earlier flight. It prompted the 66-year-old lady to find the best flight. With the of Uchenna and Joyce, they left earlier and had the evil alliance (ROMBER and Ron and Kelly) trailing behind.

Ha! :p In you face Rob! You just got messed up by trying to mess other people up! How does that feel? Maybe you should consider that next time you decide to be an ass...

I love Rob's look of annoyance and Amber's look of panic when they learned from the people in the boat that two teams have already passed and they've been had. It reminded me of the "can't-wait-to-see-the-look-on-their-faces" airplane incident. Only this time, the black couple and M&G weren't gloating over the LOSERS' defeated faces.

You're not so smart after all, Rob, are you? God, I was horrified that he didn't even know what a gnome is. And, as can be expected, he was pulling people, shouting, and all that during the scales task.

But anyway...

Karma proves that in the end, good, smart, and strategic players triumph.

I say this because of Uchenna and Joyce. I get more and more impressed with them as the season comes near the end.

They've proven that they have:

* physical strength (I cite the grounding-rice, carrying-things-on-their-heads, and hunting-exercise challenges among others),

* emotional strength (Joyce having her head shaved has, like I said in my previous post, proven how tough she is),

* love for each other/teamwork (They bicker but only sometimes as compared to Ron and Kelly's what-were-you-thinking kinds of responses to each other whenever they're fighting),

* honesty (They have never cheated or cracked an evil scheme), and

* compassion (They have helped M&G a lot and the preview shows Uchenna helping them again so if there's such a thing as the M&G curse, could there possibly be an M&G blessing to lead the good Samaritans to win TAR? Hmmm...).

They have it all.

So at this point, I really really want Uchenna and Joyce to win! They are in my opinion the only solid, capable, deserving team left.

I am still rooting for Meredith and Gretchen but it would come as no surprise if they don't end up in the final three 'coz they're not as physically strong as the other teams.

That said, however, I want to say that I liked Gretchen all the more when she braved that climbing and rappelling challenge.

Gretchen: 66-year-old woman with a
teenager spirit

Wow! :) That's something to tell her grandchildren about. But I think they're growing tired and losing money (because of the non-elimination punishment) so it's okay if they hang their caps. But even if it's too much to hope for, M&G making it to the finale and winning would be a real treat! Good luck oldies!

I liked Kelly last episode but I'm back to not liking her again. What was that commitment argument all about??? This girl needs to think before she speaks. Ron got out of the army by being a POW??? Does she know what being a POW means? I'm sensing that she hears the ticking of her biological clock so she's getting desperate.

Still, I give Ron and Kelly props for being the only team to choose the mental challenge (the one with posts, numbers, and a chest) and getting it done quickly and efficiently.

Now that they only have passports and the clothes on their backs, they need to rise up to the challenge like M&G did. They need to prove themselves.

This leaves the "Survivor" team. The chance of me rooting for ROMBER is close to zero. Not unless Rob undergoes a complete attitude makeover and Amber grows spine.

But I guess they'll make it to the top three. That's okay. At least they're interesting to watch even if they make my blood boil. And I know some people like them so they have fans, unlike Ron and Kelly whom most people find bland.

So with these, I cheer, "Go for the win Uchenna and Joyce!"

I'm curious to see what kind of luck the 4 teams will have for the next episode. Just one more elimination to go before we get the top 3 for the big finale... I certainly hope the deserving people make it to the end. Calling on karma... Please be there again.

TRIBUTE TO MEREDITH AND GRETCHEN

[May 4 2005, 11:32 AM]

Waaahhh!!!!!!!!

This is so sad. :(

It's the end of the line for Meredith and Gretchen.

Akala ko pa naman makakalusot sila ulit with a non-elimination. Tsk, tsk... Sayang talaga out na sila! They sure looked determined to hang on. Sinubukan talaga nilang makapasok pa sa finale with the stronger teams. For that alone, I commend them. I must say, the sight of a 70-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman dragging boats tugged at my heart. The couple looked very pained. They had a difficult time as they lacked the brawns the younger ones still have but they cooperated with each other to complete the task. They worked together, with no complaints, with full trust, just like they always do.

But what is there to say? Sometimes life is like that. You give everything you can but it is still not enough.

* sadness *

Still, I am very very proud of them! They really put a game on. No one can accuse them of quitting or playing dirty or bickering with each other. They had none of that.

Here's my little tribute:

After keeping things together despite being broke and stripped of all possessions;

after staying on for more legs after that and surprising everyone week after week;

after Gretchen didn't make a fuss over the wound she got from that bad fall in the cave;

after Meredith so sweetly let his wife take a nice ride on the elephant thing in India not minding that the additional weight and less manpower made things harder for him;

after displaying their support for each other that instance Gretchen asked for a hug to be able to keep on searching for the clue;

after getting as far as second place;

after exhibiting camaraderie with the other teams (especially Uchenna and Joyce) and being nice to everyone;

after the clean game they played;

after never giving up;

after rising up each new leg, full of hope;

after that one final good deed of lending Ron and Kelly some assistance, a way of giving back for the time the POW and pageant queen helped make their non-elim punishment lighter;

after all of that...

Meredith and Gretchen have proven that they are AMAZING individuals with their character and strength as well as a truly AMAZING couple with their love and dedication.

I'm sure their family, friends, and fans are proud of them.

Cheers to this very inspiring team! They have made "The Amazing Race" season 7 very exciting and a real treat to watch!

MEREDITH AND GRETCHEN!!!!!

TAR FORMAT

[May 4 2005, 12:46 PM]

According to other TAR fanatics, there is news na "family edition" ang TAR 8. If ever it is true, that ought to be interesting.

I love the twists and surprises the network comes up with to make "The Amazing Race" even more amazing. We don't know, baka in the future they decide to include other nationalities.

ON THE TOP THREE

[May 4 2005, 01:42 PM]

Gotta hand it to those 2 teams (team ROMBER and team GO AMERICA!) for taking a risk. Like they say, you have to risk it to win big!

Kudos to Uchenna too for being so nice and trying to the oldies with carrying the boat!

My only criticisms:

* I wish Ron and Kelly would tone down their bickering.

* I also wish that ROMBER would stop getting people every leg to be their "tourist/slave/pointer/whatever" each and every time and try to make it on their own.

PHOTO STORY

[May 7 2005, 04:42 PM ]

I have a treat for you guys. :)

Here are some pictures I got from the official "The Amazing Race" website at CBS.com. I thought they'd be fun to share with you fellow TAR fans.

Here they are with my matching comments... Enjoy!

Kelly's "The Devil made me do it" artwork

I seriously don't know what to think about this.

On one hand, it is funny. ;P ROMBER deserve it since they have done "evil schemes" since the race's start. It's predictable 'coz I'm sure Ron and Kelly were really pissed (which is funny 'coz I know those two teams were aiming at each other and they both know it, so why the drama?).

On the other hand, it is a very childish thing to do. And so unnecessary. It's not like Kelly got something out of it. If anything, it exposed her biyatchness to the TAR viewers.

ROMBER with one of their many ferns all throughout the race

While I do appreciate the Survivors' charisma in getting people to follow them around, give them directions, help them, etc. and while there is no rule that prevents teams from asking for help, I don't like the lack of independence, use of "Survivor" fame (an unfair advantage), and occassional coercion.

I'd be more impressed with Rob and Amber if they try to make it on their own. They could ask for basic information. But getting someone to navigate for them from one detination to another and yet another is laziness and lack of skill. Why don't they use their skills the right way?

But anyway... It's not like I can do anything. So I'll just leave ROMBER alone with such style. It's their game. I can only not like them for it. Let's just see if they get a fern in the finale or not and whether that would affect their performance or not. The finale will be the ultimate test and judge.

Sherlock Holmes hands a clue

I liked this challenge. For me, it's one of the best for this season.

I wish they have more challenges that require thinking, really explain something about the destination and the culture there, and is just interesting. Like this.

FAIR GAME

[May 18 2005, 08:15 PM ]

Life finds a way of giving people their just dessert. It may be right away or far into the future. The person may recognize it or not even notice it. It may be in terms of a small, daily, trivial thing or it may be a big, grand , life-altering event. Whatever form it takes, the bottomline is that the universe has a scheme where everything is in order and justice prevails.

I truly believe that, which is why all throughout TAR 7, and in everything actually, I maintain that both goal/endpoint/vision and process are important. Kaya nga bilib ako kina Meredith and Gretchen, Brian and Greg, Debbie and Bianca tsaka Uchenna and Joyce.

1st place: Uchenna and Joyce

Uchenna and Joyce truly deserved to win. Panalo talaga sila for their skills, teamwork, strategy, principles, spirit, etc. It's really nice how the race has brought them closer and how now they have a chance to get a baby. Mabuti silang tao kaya pinagpala sila. I'm so happy for them. I really admire them for not giving up even if they didn't have any money or possessions. Bow rin ako sa hindi na lang nila pagtakas or pakikipagsabwatan sa driver (though I think hindi pwede, nasa rules ng TAR na you can only say you're in a race hindi pwede mag-name drop tsaka kailangan tapos lahat ng tasks and obligations kasama na ang transpo duties). That was a great testament to their strong sense of what is right and care for others. Aside from that syempre ang magandang relationship nila with the others and helping Meredith and Gretchen out. Tsaka they never gave up talaga. Uchenna and Joyce are winners in every sense of the word!

2nd place: Rob and Amber

I congratulate Rob and Amber for finishing second place rin. It's a very good slot, certainly commendable! Even if I'm not a fan of theirs, I can say that they deserve it. It is a product of their skills, teamwork, and strategy. Gaya ng sabi ni Phil, they're competitive players and they made TAR 7 exciting. 'Yun nga lang, they lacked that "winning factor" - the unique combo Uchenna and Joyce have, to get the gold medal and take it all. Parang ironic na nagulo at nahirapan sila sa paghahanap nung king of the havanas place whereas Uchenna and Joyce found that part easy because this time, it was them who had a fern. The driver really helped them. Blessing from heaven that he asked the question in spanish so the couple was led there without problems. Too bad for Rob and Amber!

3rd place: Ron and Kelly

Sina Ron and Kelly naman, nakakaawa. They didn't win na nga, nagkalabuan pa. I really hope they find a way to make things work. Maybe Kelly can lower her pride and bawasan ang kaartehan while Ron can be more sensitive and learn to deal with issues--Kelly's, his, and theirs as a couple. Kung hindi naman eh di at least learning experience ang TAR. Anyway, third is good too. Out of eleven. Ron and Kelly displayed the smarts, the strength, and the skills all throughout the race.

So really, all in all, I'd say it was fair. I'm happy with the results. I only wish that the next TAR (the family edition) would be as, if not even more, exciting. and I hope all the players are happy.

TAR 7 is truly unforgettable!!!

Note: Posts have been modified to suit blog format. For the original version and to read the complete discussion of the topic, visit:

iATENEO >> The Anything Goes Show >> Couch Potatoes >> The Amazing Race

[Pictures from The Amazing Race at CBS]

*** spat out from the mind of Rachelle @ 9:20 PM

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