Some of my Favorite Things

These are some of my favorite things........ I am sharing because I love them so much that I want everyone else to love them too.


This summer I discovered Zoya nail polish at my local salon. The amazing thing about Zoya, besides the color palette is that it is the longest lasting nail polish on the market and boasts a toluene, formaldehyde, DBP (phthalates) and camphor free formula that is also vegan friendly. A friend and I became so obsessed that we started picking colors for one another; we even ordered more than once. Stock up cause they're only $7.00 a bottle, much less than designer brands but much better than designer brands.





find it at www.zoya.com

I seriously love the notebooks from oh joy! They are feminine and unique, and I would love to carry one around in my handbag because they're just so beautiful.




find them at http://www.ohjoy.com/shop/all/

I recently discovered Gala wine glasses at Crate & Barrel; I asked an employee there if they would have them for a few more months and she said, oh they're not going away, we've had them for over ten years. These glasses are classic; I love them.



find these at www.crateandbarrel.com

Calligraphy Stamps by Primele: when I discovered these while browsing of etsy, I knew I was in love. These stamps may look ordinary but they are anything but ordinary. Available in three different designs, you can personalize your own return address stamp for all your special mail. They are available in three different designs: script ($59.00), curl ($62.00), and floral script ($64.00). I will order one before the year is out!



Find these at http://www.etsy.com/shop/Primele ;)

Voluspa Candles have been a favorite of mine for a long time; I stand in stores that sell them smelling the various scents and taking it all in. I like so many of them but my favorite is Olive Leaf Vervaine!



Pick your favorite at www.voluspa.com!

So You Think You Can Dance Season 7!

These are all my favorite dances from Season 7! There were so many great ones, and it was hard to choose a Top 10 or Top 20 dances so I decided to just pick all my favorites and briefly tell you why.

Week 1

Cristina and Mark danced a jazz routine by Sonya Tayek to Starstuck by Santigold--- why was it amazing? because Nigel said she danced tremendously and Mark brought out the best in her. Mia said she was partnered with the best and was proud of her for how well she did. Adam said he was stunned and didn't think it was going to work as well as it did.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=43352

Alex and Allison danced a contemporary routine by Sonya Tayek to Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley--- why was it amazing? one reason it that the judges were on their feet in week 1! Nigel told Alex he set a new standard for So You Think You Can Dance. Mia said it was the best ever. Adam said the dancers upped the choreographers game.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=43313

Robert and Courtney danced an African routine by Sean Cheesman to Norweg by Cirque Du Soliel--- why was it amazing? Robert Roldan grew arguably more than any other dancer on SYTYCD this season, and this was just the beginning of his greatness. Adam called him one of the best contemporary dancers.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=43343

Week 2

Adechike and Allison danced a contemporary routine by Mandy Moore to Listen to Your Heart by DHT--- why was it amazing? Nigel saw major improvement in this young man who he said does not interrupt emotion with steps. Adam said he dances with so much passion.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=43947

Ashley and Mark danced a contemporary routine by Travis Wall to Wonderful by Annie Lennox--- why was it amazing? Mia called Ashley one of he fave girls in the competition. Adam likes how she completely loses herself in the music.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=43957

Lauren and Dominic danced a lyrical hip hop routine by Tessandra Chavez to If I Were a Boy by Beyonce--- why was it amazing? Mia called it an outstanding performance from both dancers. Adam commented that Lauren took his notes.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=43982

Week 3

Adechike and Lauren danced a hip hop routine by Dave Scott to Hot N Fun by N.E.R.D. and Nelly Furtado--- why was it amazing? Nigel said that Dave Scott brought something out of Adechike; natural swagger, natural fun, and personality. Adam gave him a standing ovation for listening and learning.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=44534

Ashley and Ade danced a contemporary routine by Dee Caspary to Cosmic Love by Florence + The Machine--- why was it amazing? Because Ashley developed her choreography, and Mia said she was a cut above all the other female dancers in the competition. Adam called her one of the best ever female contemporary dancers to appear on SYTYCD.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=44543

Robert and Courtney danced a jazz routine by Sonya Tayek to XXXO by MIA--- why was it amazing? Adam called it an engaged and committed performance nailed complete with punctuation on all the right places.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=44547

Jose and Anya danced a Samba routine by Dmitry Chaplin to Long Time by Shakira--- why was it amazing? Nigel said that Jose possesses a smile and charisma that no one can teach; he has magic in his eyes. He also said that Jose controlled Anya in the routine. Mia called him humble, open, and joyful.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=44577

Alex and Twitch danced a hop hop routine by Tabitha and Napoleon to Outta Your Mind by Lil Jon-- why was it amazing? Well for one, it was arguably one of the best performances in SYTYCD history! And now I have to quote the judges:
Adam Shankman: This is your world and I’m just visiting.
Mia Michaels: Who the hell are you? You have defied everything about the ballet world. I am completely shocked.
Nigel Lythgoe: To Nappy Tabs: The best routine you’ve ever done on the show. At the end of the day this is a ballet dancer doing the most incredible hip-hop routine.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=44591 and this version has all the amazing comments--- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-V0aNyY_ei0&feature=related

Week 4

Lauren and Pasha danced a cha cha by Jean Marc Genereux and France to Telephone by Lady Gaga and Beyonce--- why was it amazing? Mia called her hot. Adam said she was sharp, specific, and strong.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=45357

Jose and Lauren danced a contemporary routine by Mandy Moore to Never Tear Us Apart by INXS--- why was it amazing? I felt like this was one of the most real performances of the season. Nigel asked Jose how it felt dancing with Lauren, and he said it felt amazing. Nigel told him he accepted the challenge of SYTYCD and he delivered tonight and brings so much joy. Mia told Jose she believed every step he took and there was so little ego. Adam said he is one of the most beloved contestants on the show.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=45360

Kent and Comfort danced a hip hop routine by Dave Scott to You're Not My Girl by Ryan Leslie--- why was it amazing? Nigel liked that the routine suited Kent's style. It was Justin Timberlake-esque.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=45363

Ashley and Dominic danced a hip hop routine by Tabitha and Napoleon to How Low by Ludacris--- why was it amazing? Nigel called it a strong performance, Mia called her hardcore, and Adam said she was a contender to win this.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=45372

Lauren and Kent danced a contemporary routine by Travis Wall to Collide by Howie Day--- why was it amazing? Nigel said for three reasons, one, it showed what a great contemporary dancer Lauren is. Two, it showed what a great contemporary dancer Kent is. Three, it showed what a great contemporary choreographer Travis is. Mia called it stunning, gorgeous, there was a connection, and technique. Adam felt it was so real that he shouldn't be watching.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kf1t7VJ1jX4

Week 5

Adechike and Anya danced a salsa routine by Liz Lira and Danny Davalos to Oyelo Que Te Conviene by Eddie Palmieri--- why was it amazing? I saw tricks I have never seen before. Mia, of all people, thought it was amazing. Anya called it the fastest salsa she has never seen. Adam called his performance great and said he was there for Anya every second.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=45985

Robert and Allison danced a contemporary routine by Travis to Fix You by Coldplay--- why was it amazing? The judges gave a standing ovation and Nigel said if people don't vote for Robert there is something wrong. It was a perfect routine with the perfect choreographer with one of the best dancers ever on SYTYCD. Mia said, Robert you were stellar, and this took me back to when my mom was sick. Adam said Travis, if you don't get an Emmy nomination for this; there is no God. Adam said it will definitely be one of these performances of the season.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnguqsMQmg4

Billy and Anya danced a jive by Louis Van Amstel to Paradise by the Dashboard Light by Meatloaf--- why was it amazing? One of the judges used the phrase "sex bomb" and Billy, for the first time, really connected with a female dancer. Adam called it his fave Billy performance thus far.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=45998

Kent and Neil danced a Broadway routine by Tyce DiOrio to Shoeless Joe from Hannibal Moe from Damn Yankees--- why was it amazing? Firstly, this is not the first time this magic duo comes together; these two dancers are so perfectly matched. Mia exclaimed, I love boys! It was great entertaining, strong male dancing; I loved everything about it. Adam said they both have a great future in Broadway. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcuMU7Mu24c

Lauren and Billy danced a jazz routine by Mandy Moore to Boogie Shoes by KC and the Sunshine Band--- why was it amazing? Because it was another adorable Mandy Moore routine; it was so cute and so retro. Nigel said, Billy you really connected with your partner and jazz fits you. Mia said coolest thing ever. Adam said, Lauren the guys have something to be scared of.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=46010

Jose and Dominic danced a B-Boy routine by Tabitha and Napoleon to Battle for the Beat by District 78--- why was it amazing? Adam said, Jose, that's how you compete. You just came out and schooled us, that was mad hot!
http://www.rickey.org/?p=46015

Adechike and Kent danced a contemporary routine by Dee Capary to You Only Disappear by Tom McRae--- why was it amazing? Mia said their vulnerability and power combines make for an amazing marriage. She said, Adechike, Desmond Richardson will be so proud of you, and Kent, I am so in love with you. Adam said a super athlete can be a super artist.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mJ54esz_eE

Week 6

Lauren and Twitch danced a hip hop routine by Tabitha and Napoleon to My Chick Bad my Ludacris--- why was it amazing? Adam said who are you? And Mia said, you were so aggressive, but you maintained your sexiness throughout. Guest judge Kenny Ortega said, Lauren, you could power Los Angeles.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISmrcuPDaL8

Kent and Kathryn danced a jazz routine by Sonya Tayek to Tightrope by Janelle Monae--- why was it amazing? Kenny called Kent the guy to beat. Nigel said, Kent you may have just outdanced an all star.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTSmadlLsBQ&feature=related

Adechike and Comfort danced a lyrical hip hop routine by Tabitha and Napoleon to Fallin by Alicia Keys--- why was it amazing? Adam said it was so intense, beautiful, and horifying. Adam also added that it was unbelievable for a contemporary dancer to dance a hop hop routine like that. Mia said it was like a dance film and that Adechike has so much in him and let so much of it out on that floor. She said we got to see who you really are Adechike, and Comfort you are the Mary J. Blige of dance.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5McyQQ29X5A

Kent and Twitch danced a step routine by Chuck Maldonado to ProNails by Kid Sister--- why was it amazing? Nigel said Kent has combated everything thrown at him. Mia said they have amazing chemistry together and that it was disgusting, filthy, gross, and amazing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1gY183d_z0

Week 7

Robert and Kathryn danced a contemporary routine by Stacey Tookey to Heaven is a Place on Earth by Kate Thompson--- why was it amazing? Nigel loved the emotional connectivity and Robert's maturity and growth. Adam said the way they supported each other was amazing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZB-cUTCy70

Billy and Ade danced a contemporary routine by Stacey Tookey to Mad World by Michael Andrews--- why was it amazing? The judges gave a standing ovation. Nigel said it was the most maturity he has ever seen from Billy. Guest judge Toni Redpath said it was two amazing dancers with contrast and performances that transcended dance. Mia said it was sheer perfection and thanked Stacey Tookey for keeping her on her toes. Adam told Billy it's like he was born on the show.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qp1odkX7RPE

Jose and Kent danced a Broadway routine by Spencer Liff to From This Moment On from Kiss me Kate--- why was it amazing? Mia said friggin fantabulous and she wants Kent to do this kind of dancing forever.
http://www.rickey.org/?p=47280

Week 8

Lauren and Pasha danced an Argentine Tango by Miriam Larici and Leonardo Barrionuevo to Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla--- why was it amazing? Nigel said the passion and the intensity was incredible. Nigel said he wanted to dance with Pasha and it was overall magnificent. Mia said the choregraphy was amazing and the dance itself was mesmerizing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E81hcQQRm5s

Robert and Dominic danced a hip hop routine by Tabitha and Napoleon to Scars by Basement Jaxx--- why was it amazing? Nigel found it hard to critique Robert and thought it was brilliant. Mia called it dope. Adam called Robert sickness.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3x1LS5tVaM

Kent and Neil danced a contemporary routine by Travis Wall to How it Ends by DeVotchKa--- why was it amazing? It was the second time these two dancers were partnered together, and again it was brilliant and stunning. Tyce said excellence was delivered by the choreographer, dancer, and all star. Mia said it was so uncomfortable that it was genius and she was at a loss for words. Mia said the combination of the three of you was perfect.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEI9GSwrxxY

Week 9

The Final Week to me was all about the woman who won the competition, Lauren turned into two strong, sexy, and amazing performances....

She danced a hip hop routine with Twitch choreographed by Tabitha and Napoleon to Power by Kanye West.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pv-7BnIb1Zg&feature=related

She danced a cha cha cha with Pasha choreographed by Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin to Not Myself Tonight by Christina Aguilera.
http://il.youtube.com/watch?v=NY04YYcx7_o

So You Think You Can Dance Season 7: So Far....

This season has been a groundbreaking one on So You Think You Can Dance. We have welcomed the all stars, contestants from the previous six seasons who have come back to dance with the new Top 10, well 11 initially, instead of 10 couples of 20 dancers. We started with six men and five ladies; we have had three injuries in three consecutive weeks (two dancers had to leave the competition because they would not be able to continue dancing this season). Alex Wong, the early front runner and quick fan favorite was forced to drop out after revealing on the show that he had a lacerated Achilles tendon. Ashley Galvan suffered a rib injury the following week causing her to also bow out of the competition. Finally, just last week, Billy Bell sat out for an undisclosed injury but promised to return next week to fight it out. No one was voted out this past week, but executive producer and judge Nigel Lythgoe told viewers that two dancers would be going home this coming week.



My prediction for the top three is AdeChike Torbert, Lauren Froderman, and Kent Boyd. I have to say though that my love this season for Jose "Full Deck" Ruiz and Robert Roldan has only grown this season, and both are amazing dancers.



The All Stars:



Ade Obayomi a contemporary dancer from Season 5 (he made it to the top 6): Ade has been touring as a dancer for the Alicia Keys Element of Freedom tour, appeared in the music video "Hard" with Rihanna, and has also danced for Beyonce on the Grammy's.



Allison Holker is a contemporary dancer from Season 2 (she made it to the Top 6): Allison has toured with Clay Aiken and worked with choreographer Louis Van Amstel on the show "Broadway with a Twist". She cites Travis Wall, Danny, and Will as her dream partners.



Anya Garis is a ballroom and Latin dancer from Season 3 (she made it to the top 12): Anya has appeared on Dancing with the Stars and been a ballroom standout for the past ten years. She has also toured with the Broadway show, "Burn the Floor" and also cites Travis Wall as her dream partner.



Comfort Fedoke is a hip hop and krump dancer from Season 4 (she made it to the top 8): Comfort has danced on the Michael Jackson European tribute tour, in the movie Honey 2, and appeared on Glee. She cites Ade and Jason from Season 5 as her dream dance partners and is inspired by Travis Wall and the mark he has left on the show. Comfort is also a writer and will soon add singer to the list when she releases her first single.



Courtney Galiano is a jazz and contemporary dancer from Season 4 (she made it to the top 4): Courtney has danced in music videos for Adam Lambert, Kat Deluna, and Daddy Yankee. She also danced for Jennifer Lopez on Dick Clark's New Years Rockin' Eve. She says Kathryn (Season 6) and Katee Shean (her current roommate) inspire her as a dancer.



Dominic "D Trix" Sandoval is a breaker and hip hop dancer from Season 3 (he made it to the top 8): Dominic auditioned for SYTYCD in 2007 and hasn't turned back since. He is now a member of Quest Crew, Stepboyz Entertainment, and Flexible Flav. He has danced for Snoop Dogg, Usher, Pitbull, Sean Kingston, and Donna Summer. He says his dream partner would be none other than Twitch.



Kathryn McCormick is a contemporary dancer from Season 6 (she made it to the top 3 and was the top female dancer): Kathryn had a supporting role in Fame remake. She lists Will Wingfield as her dream partner.



Lauren Gottlieb is an everything kind of dancer who specializes in hip hop, contemporary, and jazz from Season 3 (she made it to the top 6). She is a choreographer in her own right as well as a clothing designer and dance teacher. Lauren has danced for Carrie Underwood, Mariah Carey, on five episodes of Glee, the Hannah Monatana movie, assisted Tabitha and Napoleon Dumo with Cirque du Soliel's "Viva Elvis", and the list goes on.

Lauren says her dream partner would be Twitch, Mark Kanemura, Ade, and Travis all for different reasons and she is inspired by Chelsie Hightower.



Mark Kanemura is a contemporary dancer from Season 4 (he made it to the top 6). Mark just finished touring with Lady Gaga and has also danced for Janet Jackson, Katie Holmes, Carrie Underwood, Keri Hilson, and Beyonce. Mark has appeared in numerous Broadway shows including "Sweet Charity", "The Nutcracker"," The King and I", "Grease", and "Gypsy".



Neil Haskell is a contemporary and jazz dancer from Season 3 (he made it to the top 3). Neil appeared in the MTV film "The American Mall". He has appeared in several Broadway and off Broadway shows in main roles including, "The Times are A Changin", "Altar Boys", and "9 to 5". His dream partner is Cheslie Hightower.



Pasha Kovalev is a ballroom and Latin dancer from Season 3 (he made it to the top 6). Pasha has appeared on Broadway in "Burn the Floor" and took the show on a world tour. He and Anya make appearances together and teach dance. Pasha is most inspired by Blake, Travis, and Danny (Season 3). He has also choreographed on several season of SYTYCD.



Stephen "Twitch" Boss is a hip hop dancer and popper from Season 4 (he was the runner up to Joshua Allen). Twitch is about to become a household name (as if it wasn't already) because he is starring in "Step Up 3D" and recently landed the lead roll in "Stomp the Yard 2: Homecoming". He belongs to the dance groups Breed OCLA and Chill Factor Crew and he has been helping to promote the Dizzy Feet Foundation. This wall will also see him launch the tWitch Boss Clothing Line. His dream partner would be Lauren Gottlieb and he is most inspired by Ivan Koumaev.



The Top 6 from this Season



Adechike Torbert is a 23 year old contemporary dancer with flavor who began dancing at the age of six. What I notice most in Adechike's is his personality, precision, and strength. Adechike looks up to tWitch and attended the Boston Conservatory before auditioning for the SYTYCD.

Billy Bell is a 20 year old contemporary dancer who began dancing at the age of 12. Billy, to me, is just such a hard worker; he takes in everything the judges tell him and he executes it. Billy looks up to Legacy and is inspired by Allison Holker.

Jose "Full Deck" Ruiz 23 year old b boy dancer who started his dance career late at age 14. Jose is honestly a sensitive, gentle, passionate person, and that comes across clear as day in his dancing. His smile completely lights up a room; he looks up to Legacy .

Kent Boyd is an 18 year old contemporary jazz dancer who started dancing at age eight. He cites Travis Wall as an amazing professional dancer. Kent continues to surprise me every week with his versatility and his popularity among the public. He looks up to Kathryn from Season 6.

Lauren Froderman is an 18 year old contemporary jazz dancer who began dancing at just the age of three! Lauren is the embodiment of a female dancer, so it's no surprise that she is the final female standing in this competition. She is inspired by Lauren Gottlieb.

Robert Roldan is a 20 year old contemporary dancer who started dancing at age 11. He looks up to Travis Wall and Allison Holker. Robert is just amazing because he is totally committed to every dance, every step has meaning to Robert. He cites the press lift in the water in the movie "Dirty Dancing" as perfection.

go to www.fox.com/dance and click contestants to see the rest of the contestants from this season's top 11!

In my next blog: all my face performances from this season so far, and there have been quite a few.

The Bachelorette Season 6 Week 6: Ali--- Justin Goes Down!

Ali finds out from another girl who was on Jake's Season with her that Justin has a girlfriend from the beginning and he tried to cover it up. He did this to gain publicity, and he told his girlfriend about the whole scheme before he even left to do the show. Apparently she found put that he was dating another girl besides her, and then her feelings turned to anger, so she revealed Justin's secret.

When Ali confronted him, he tried to deny the whole thing. She tells him how she gave up her job and apartment to come there and find love and he f****d with that. She said that what he did is unspeakable and not just unspeakable because of what you did to me but what you did to this woman who is supposed to be your best friend. She kicks him off the show, and then a series of voicemails are played of Justin to Jessica's (said girlfriend) voicemail.

Ty gets the one on one date and they go to the Turkish baths. Ali says that after what happened with Justin, Ty has restored her faith in men. Ty reveals to Ali that he struggled with his ex working, but says that living ans experience made him change. Ali says she has concerns about how traditional Ty is, but she offers him a rose because she appreciates how open he is. She says he surprised her.

Craig, Kirk, Chris, and Roberto oil wrestle for time with Ali and surprisingly Craig won by beating Roberto. Ali and Craig eat dinner on a boat, and Ali comments on how positive and patient Craig has been throughout this whole process, and he says he will always be this way. He tells her that she is beautiful inside and out as they are watching the fireworks.

Frank receives the second one on one date with Ali and they go to the Spice Bazaar, and Ali dresses as a belly dancer when they play dress up at the store. Ali and Frank go to a very romantic dinner spot where Ali says her relationship with Frank scares her, but she still feels something special for him. She gives him a rose.

Ali decides to fore go the cocktail party because she already knows who she wants to send home. Roberto says he and the other guys must be playing back every moment in their minds that they have spent with Ali. Ali concludes by saying that there is one guy that she didn't feel that special connection with.

The Final Five
Ty
Frank
Roberto
Kirk
Chris

Craig is eliminated.

The Bachelorette Season 6-- Rated R is Super Lame on Week 5, Ali

Week 5

In Iceland, the guys compete for a date with Ali by writing her a poem. Kirk ultimately won because not only was his poem really sweet but he also was the only one that looked at her and walked up to her when he read it. Kirk and Ali go sweater shopping and don matching sweaters, how cute! Then they talk about Kirk's dating history and he says that he has dated some great women, but none for over a year. Ali says that this concerns her, and as a result she isn't sure she can give him a rose.

Kirk explains himself, he was an All American Track Athlete in college and he found himself getting really sick in school; he ended up discovering that the house he was living in had mold and asbestos. It was deemed unlivable. Kirk says the experience taught him to appreciate life more, and that he can definitely see himself falling for Ali and being with her.

Kasey finds out that he is to go on the two on one date with Justin and doesn't want to have any part of it. Frank urges Kasey to come clean with Ali and tell her about the tattoo.

On the group date, Ty took the lead because they went horseback riding and he's kind of a cowboy. Roberto comments that Ali is a natural riding the horse and the guys make fun of Chris L. because he can't ride a horse.

Justin (Rated R) gets his cast off, boo!

Ali comments how Frank has been non existent on the date while Frank complains about not having enough alone time with Ali.

The group arrives at a blue lagoon known for its healing properties. Ali takes off all her snow clothes in seconds to reveal a bikini and she goes into the water. Craig says he stripped down so quick he almost forgot to put his swimsuit on. Roberto said he has never taken his clothes off so fast in his life, as he was first into the water.

Hightlights: I liked Ty's manliness on this date, and Chris L's vulnerability.

Lowlights: Where was Roberto on this date? Frank: he complains all the time.

Ty receives the rose on the group date.

The two on one begins with a helicopter ride over the volcano. Justin says he is the best man between him and Kasey, ewwww! I cannot even go through this date because it is so sad. I feel bad for Kasey because Ali ends up giving the rose to someone who is full of lies.

Cocktail party highlight: Roberto tells Ali he is a shy guy. Ali says she wouldn't have gone up to Roberto if they weren't on the show because he is way too hot. He says, that's not true, and she says, you're blushing Roberto.

Kasey and Chris N. are eliminated.

The Bachelorette Season 6, Week 4 Ali!

Ali goes to New York City and gets a make over from InStyle; she says it's to prepare her for her dates this week.

Kasey gets his first one on one date with Ali; wow this should be creepy and it is. The two embark on a helicopter ride around the city. Then they go on a picnic lunch, and Kasey starts singing; it does not sound good at all. In fact, I really want him to stop singing. Ali is sitting there knocking back a glass of wine, probably wishing the date was over, so uncomfortable.

Kasey says you're different from all the other women cause you're Ali. He says I am here to guard and protect your heart, and I know that a woman is right for me when she does the same for me. The problem with Kasey is that he says all the right things and I really want to believe him, but it's too good to be true, and his voice throws me off. Ali says that she doesn't believe that everything is saying is genuine and therefore she cannot give him a rose, but she doesn't want him to leave.

Craig, Kirk, Roberto, Jesse, Jonathan, Frank, and Ty go on a group date with Ali to Broadway........

The guys compete for a date with Ali by singing for her and some Broadway producers from The Lion King.

Jesse did awesome his singing was really impressive, but Roberto (Rico suave) won the date because he was the only one who sang to Ali.

Roberto is surprised to find out that his date with Ali is that they get to be extras together in The Lion King. Ali says that going through this experience with Roberto is making them fall in love. (SPOILER! why is it then that I heard she doesn't choose anyone at the end! Ali are you crazy? Roberto is amazing!)

My question of the night...... this takes place at the wrap party after The Lion King....... Ali is sick, she goes outside in the rain with Frank........ why does she like this guy so much? He is pretty lame.

Inside, Ali tells Craig she is impressed every time she talks to him.

The weatherman (Jonathan) attempts to get one on one time with Ali but fails miserably.

Kirk tells Ali that since she is sick she should take care of herself and go to bed, and not feel bad about having to leave the party. She then tells the guys as a group that she cannot give out the rose, and that Kirk is going to walk her to her room. She invites Kirk in and they talk and kiss (this guy is a serious cutie too!).

Kasey goes to get a tattoo on his arm of a shield in front of a heart with a rose and 11 stones (the top 11 guys!). Wow, Kasey this is kind of crazy.

Ali wakes up the next morning, and is really sick, and is supposed to go on a date with Chris L. (it is also his birthday). She instead invites him to come spend the day with her in her suite. He brings her soup and flowers (how sweet is that? it's his birthday and he is taking care of her, another nice guy).

Ali feels better after eating the chicken noodle soup Chris brought her and decides they should go out on the date after all. Ali rents out a club where Chris and Ali go and talk and he gets to talk to his dad by phone on his special day. Ali gives Chris a rose. Then they go to the roof for a Joshua Radin (Ali's fave singer) concert; the date ends with them kissing on the roof.

Just some things I wanted to mention from the cocktail party:

Why is the weatherman singing? This is not good. Why is Justin calling people out for lying when he does it more than anyone else?

The Top 9

Chris L.
Kirk
Frank
Craig
Chris N.
Roberto
Jutin
Ty
Kasey

Eliminated:
Jesse (wow this was a shocker to me, I thought they had some pretty hot chemistry)
Jonathan (not a surprise)

The Bachelorette Season 6 Ali, Week3

Roberto and Ali's first one on one date is perfection; they are picked up by a helicopter that lands on top of a high rise. Turns out they are having dinner on top of the building next to it and must cross to the other side by walking across on high wires. While crossing to the other side Ali has her first kiss with Roberto and says it is like nothing else she has ever experienced.

They have dinner and both start complimenting each other non stop..... Roberto calls Ali captivating, she says she feels they are connecting but wonders if she is pretty enough cause Roberto is so handsome. Then he tells her she is really cute, and she starts speaking Spanish and says "dame um beso", and Roberto says he can't refuse so he starts kissing her. I love the chemistry between these two. The night ends with Ali, of course giving Roberto a rose.

Then Ali had a group date with Kirk, John, Chris N., Chris L., Frank, Jonathan, Craig, Jeese, Justin---

The guys and Ali film a music video for The Barenaked Ladies; here's the highlights and lowlights:
highlights: Jonathan was cute, don't care what anyone else says. I think the fact that he was able to express more emotion than just about any other guy there spoke volumes. Kirk continued to kiss Ali in bed during his video scene even after the director yelled "cut", and she kissed him back.
lowlights: Frank, he's just weird. John should have spiced things up a little bit more.

The Wrap Party: Chris L. tells Ali that his mom passed away, and the tattoo on his heart is in memory of her. Jonathan made an awkward move by actually asking Ali for a kiss, dude you know I like you, but don't do that. I am liking this guy Kirk, Ali says she likes his energy, feels drawn to him, and feels safe and appreciated around him. He gets the group date rose.

Justin pulls a fast one and walk seven miles to Ali's house to spend some alone time with her. He doesn't tell the guys and he cuts into Hunter's one on one date with Ali. Hunter ultimately ends up not receiving a rose and is sent packing after a boring date with little chemistry.

Roberto and Ali once again have some precious one on one time at the cocktail party before the rose ceremony. It is here that she reveals to Roberto that Justin walked to her house. Roberto shares the news with the rest of the guys. The guys turn on Justin big time.

Besides Hunter, Steven and John are also eliminated.

The Remaining 11:
Roberto
Kirk
Chris L.
Jesse
Chris N.
Ty
Kasey
Craig
Frank
Jonathan
Justin