Survivor: Blood vs. Water - November 13 Episode Blog Party

Well, last week we saw Vytas win the first individual immunity of the season while brother Aras got the boot. Tyson, playing perhaps the sneakiest game this season, has the idol but was in no danger all along. Actually, unless you're Aras or Vytas, it made sense to get rid of Aras as he has a real chance to win it all. And, after all, he just might still have a chance as Redemption Island started up all over again.

As the show airs here on the East Coast, I'll update this post with the major happenings. Refresh the page to get the latest! But, as always, the real party is in the comments area ... come join us!

Here are the latest blog pool standings from that elegant Lifeguard Laurie:

End of Week 11/6
CALEB -- Glenn, ORKMommy
CIERA -- Andrea J, Karen in CA, Rochelle
GERVASE -- Jackie, Pam in NJ
HAYDEN -- Joanie, Quixotic Elf
KATIE -- David, Margo, Zoetawny
LAURA M -- AlbGlinka, JOKATS, rbennie
MONICA -- Becky, KayBeeRN, Russ
TINA -- Cheryl in NC, Lynn1, Terry in TX
TYSON -- Delee, meb
VYTAS -- Donna NY, ML

Redemption Island
ARAS -- Donna in FL, MikesGirl

Survivor fans ready?

Oh my, Immunity Challenge is coming only seven minutes into the episode! It's the icky food comp ... fun to watch, but I couldn't do it.

40 mealworms (live, of course)
3 ounces pig intestines
It's between Monica and Gervase for the win.
2 live grubs

Monica wins immunity!

The plan seems to be to split the votes between Vytas and Katie. Tribal is coming early in the episode, too -- 8:22pm. Hmm. Something must be up or VERY entertaining ahead!

The tally -- Vytas, Katie, Tyson, Vytas, Vytas, Vytas, Vytas.

Rats. He'll have duel with his brother to return.

Second Immunity Challenge -- Balance a sword on a shield, with other hand balance coins on the sword's handle.

Katie wins Immunity!

Due to Monica's wild vote for Vytas last tribal, she's a target this time ... perhaps more so than Tina. Still no one knows that Tyson has the hidden idol.

At Tribal Council, Tina hints she might have the idol.

The tally -- Monica, Tina, Tyson, Tina, Tina, Tina, Tina.

Her ploy didn't work. I personally would have preferred it if Monica went.

The Amazing Race: November 10, 2013 Episode Blog Party

Once again, the show isn't even scheduled until 8:30pm and football's running even later. Sigh. Once it finally starts here, I'll remove the word verification from comments and update this entry with the major events. Refresh the page to get the latest! As always, the real party is in the comments. Be there or be square.

I'll say it now before it even starts ... aren't we due for a non-Philimination leg? With my luck it will be Marie and Tim saved, my least favorite team. Actually, I think they're the only team I outright dislike this season. So, surely they'll be saved!

The Magnificent Margo has the latest pool standings as of the end of last week's show:

Ally And Ashley - LafayetteLisanne, Jackie,Tammy
Jason And Amy - Nicklepeed, PDXGranny, Brian, DLA
Leo And Jamal - MEB, Margo, Brenda, Caela
Nicky And Kim - Nana in NW, Jennasmom, David
Tim And Marie - SueGee, DKNYNC, Rbennie
Travis And Nicole - Delee, Laurie, Lynn1, Merrilee

Sorry you have been PHILIMINATED
Hoskote And Naina
Rowan And Shane - ML, Becky, Cheryl in NC, KayBeeRN
Chester And Ephraim - Buzzmaam, Donna in AL, Sharon S
Brandon And Adam - Donna in FL, Monty924, Sharon
Tim And Danny - JOKATS, Dusty, Zoetawny

Let's get this show on the road!

8:47pm ET and the show is finally starting here. Grr.

Teams will fly to Abu Dhabi. Leo and Jamal are on a flight that lands ten minutes earlier than the rest of the teams.

Detour - Sort it Out or Sew it Up -- the first is to duplicate a food platter, the latter is making a fishing net. Both tasks are quite difficult.

The Roadblock has them dropping 200 feet (?) on a zip line into a race track, taking a lap with a professional race car driver and noting the name of the winner of a race on a sign in order to receive their next clue.

Pit Stop:
1. Leo and Jamal - won a trip to Paris.
2. Jason and Amy (fourth time in second place)
3. Nicole and Travis
4. Tim and Marie (grr)
5. Ally and Ashley
6. Nicky and Kim ... but it's a non-Philimination leg and they're still in it!

Another double U-Turn ahead next week. Will someone PLEASE U-Turn Marie and Tim? Please? Thank you in advance!

Off Topic: That Was the Week It Was - November 10, 2013

Good morning, peeps! You've arrived at my weekly off television topic reflection on the week gone by in both words and photos I've taken along the way. Yes, this is Sunday morning and this is the view from here in New Jersey. No, not the real industrial New Jersey you see from the turnpike immediately outside the city. Nor is it the almost New England type farmlands and woods like Northwest New Jersey. Nope, this is northern Central New Jersey -- one of the most densely populated areas of the most densely populated state; a whole bunch of towns close together in what they call the Greater New York City Metropolitan Area.

As a result of locale, many folks commute from around here into Manhattan daily. I don't. Yet I have a love for the city. I'm awaking to news that some idiot shot two people at the skating rink in Bryant Park. Geez. Isn't anything sacred? When I go into the city with my camera around the holidays, Bryant Park is almost always on my agenda as it has a wonderful holiday atmosphere and I can actually get close enough to photograph the skaters (unlike Rockerfeller Center). Apparently not a random shooting, there had been a verbal confrontation between one of the shot skaters and the gunman. At this point, both victims (both skaters) are alive. But ... sheesh. What is WRONG with people?

In other local news, I want to grouse about change. Yes, I know change is always going to happen. But there has been a wooded area next to a brook just as my train approaches the town of Bound Brook. I've often seen deer there from the train. Plus, a man in a maroon truck drops off tons of breadcrumbs daily for at least the past ten years for the geese. This man has been at it daily, dumping about a big wastebasket size amount of bread. Daily ... rain, shine, snow, no matter the season. In the last week, they tore down all the trees and bulldozed it flat. Wah. I don't know what's going to go up there, but I'll surely miss what was.

Let's see ... I must have some good news. Hmm. Well, Vincent the Cat is doing well. But he does kind of have the life of leisure. So, he's bound to do well. There haven't been any more mice incidents.

On a positive local change in Plainfield note, now that the leaves are thinning on the trees, I can see one of the more notorious crime-laden public housing projects in Plainfield from the train. They've been talking about razing it for years. Well, it looks like that's imminent now. People are moving out and, as they do, each apartment is getting boarded up. Sure, the thugs who took it over years back will just find new places to do their "business." But, hopefully, it will be a new start and a much safer life for the innocent children who lived there and the elderly residents. No one should be afraid to walk out their doors in the daytime.

On the other hand, here at my apartment building, it's not cheap to live. Yes, some of the apartments are subsidized for elderly and a few families. But, for the most part, people in my building need to work for a living. As a result, it's safe to take trash out to the Dumpster at 2 in the morning if you feel so inclined. You're more likely to get frightened by a raccoon rather than Riff-Raff. Our latest landlord has really been doing well with upgrades and repairs. The elevator hasn't been out of order for more than a few hours at a time for months now. The new windows look spiffy. I'm pleased with the place and I haven't always been.

This week was rather mundane, so are my photos ... but I do have two Vincent photos for his fans! Later tonight I'll post the blog party for The Amazing Race. If you watch the show, come watch with us! We have cyberdrinks and snacks!

No, no ... not already!

Plainfield has its holiday decorations up on the street corners downtown. Sigh. Taken from the corner of East Front and Church Streets looking towards Watchung Avenue.

But, but ...

It can't be the holiday season already! Roses are still growing on East Front Street just two blocks away!

**CLICK THE 'READ MORE' BUTTON TO SEE THE REST OF THE PHOTOS**

Survivor: Blood vs. Water - November 6 Episode Blog Party

It sounds like tonight should be action-packed -- someone returning from Redemption Island and the merge is on! I do think that all those people who worried about Aras and Vytas getting together and thinking they should do something about it may have wished they had done so!

Lifeguard Laurie has returned to the real world after a splendid well-deserved time away from home. Here are the latest pool standings:

End of Week Three 10/30
Galang
KATIE -- David, Margo, Zoetawny
MONICA -- Becky, KayBeeRN, Russ
TINA -- Cheryl in NC, Lynn1, Terry in TX
VYTAS -- Donna NY, ML

Tadhana
ARAS -- Donna in FL, MikesGirl
CALEB -- Glenn, ORKMommy
CIERA -- Andrea J, Karen in CA, Rochelle
GERVASE -- Jackie, Pam in NJ
HAYDEN -- Joanie, Quixotic Elf
TYSON -- Delee, meb

Redemption Island
JOHN -- Ed in Ohio, Nana in the NW
LAURA M -- AlbGlinka, JOKATS, rbennie
LAURA B -- Buzzmaan, Laurie, SueGee


As the show airs here on the East Coast, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. Refresh the page to get the latest! As always, the real party is in the comments area. Come join us!

Survivor fans ready?

Duel time - this time it's do or die. The winner returns to the game; the two losers go home. It's an endurance duel -- hanging onto a pole as long as they can. Not surprisingly, due to size and weight, John is out first. Laura M. seems the most secure although Ciera would rather play her own game. Laura M. returns to the game -- Laura B. and John both out for good.

Drop your buffs. The merge is indeed on.

Even though she could have kept it for herself, Laura threw the Hidden Idol clue in the fire.

Tyson found the idol and says that he isn't going to tell anyone. We'll see about that! They always seem to tell.

First individual immunity up for grabs! They will be shown a series of pictures and each must show them back in order on a cube. Monica out first. Caleb and Katie out. Tyson and Tina out. Hayden out. First round done.

Second round. Laura out. Ciera out. Gervase out. It's down to Aras and Vytas. Vytas wins immunity! (It's a shame Aras is a big target for others.) Gervase and Tyson still go for an Aras exit.

The tally: Laura, Laura, Ciera, Ciera, Aras, Aras, Aras, Aras, Aras ... rats. I liked him! The Tyson/Gervase plan worked. But, Aras is going to Redemption. He's not booted yet!

The Amazing Race: November 3, 2013 Blog Party!

Once again, tonight's show isn't even scheduled until 8:30pm ET here in the NYC viewing area. That's due to football, of course. Now, I'm not really optimistic that it will even start at that time. Nonetheless, I'm posting this entry at 8pm ET. I'll take off the word verification for comments at 8:30pm-ish and joining in at that time.

Here are the latest blog pool results from Super Margo:

Ally And Ashley - LafayetteLisanne, Jackie,Tammy
Jason And Amy - Nicklepeed, PDXGranny, Brian, DLA
Leo And Jamal - MEB, Margo, Brenda, Caela
Nicky And Kim - Nana in NW, Jennasmom, David
Tim And Danny - JOKATS, Dusty, Zoetawny
Tim And Marie - SueGee, DKNYNC, Rbennie
Travis And Nicole - Delee, Laurie, Lynn1, Merrilee

Sorry you have been PHILIMINATED
Hoskote And Naina
Rowan And Shane - ML, Becky, Cheryl in NC, KayBeeRN
Chester And Ephraim - Buzzmaam, Donna in AL, Sharon S
Brandon And Adam - Donna in FL, Monty924, Sharon

Once the show (finally) starts in this area, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. As always, the real party is in the comments area. Come join us!

Okay, the show will be starting at 9PM ET here. Grr. I'll be here then.

Finally, it's starting. Seven teams remain. Who will be eliminated NEXT?

My least favorite team, Tim and Marie, are leaving first. They're heading to Austria by train. At least their Express Pass is now gone. My blog pool team is the last to depart. All the teams meet up at a layover in Poland. So, all are once again starting out even. Jason and Amy were there first, but can't jump due to the wind.

They're at the Vienna Opera House -Detour -- Light Brigade has them making a chandelier or Masquerade has them attending a Vienna Waltz in costume while matching their masks to a dancing couple. There is a Fast Forward. All that clue says is that it's weather-dependent. The FF is a 500-foot bungee jump. Child's play! Uh-oh. It's too windy. Jason and Amy decide to head back to the Detour.

Heh. Tim and Marie can't get a cab!

Roadblock - Teams must join the choir at the Vienna Boys Choir and sing a song to the satisfaction of the choir director.

Travis was the first to make it through the singing.

Nicky and Kim almost took Jason and Amy's waiting cab once the taxi driver himself took their bags out. He was tired of waiting. Then Tim and Marie took someone else's. They plan on blaming Leo and Jamal.

Next, they're searching for a clue in a maze. Then it's off to the Pit Stop!

Pit Stop order:
1. Nicole and Travis - win a trip to Anguilla. Travis is hoarse from singing.
2. Nicky and Kim
3. Leo and Jamal
4. Tim and Marie
5. Jason and Amy

Cool. Almost fisticuffs at the Pit Stop due to the cab theft.

6. Ally and Ashley
7. Tim and Danny ... Philiminated.

Aw. Sigh.

Off Topic: That Was the Week It Was - November 3, 2013

Hello, welcome to Sunday! This is my weekly off television topic reflection on the week gone by in both words and photographs I've taken along the way. Later tonight I'll be posting the Amazing Race blog party post. If you watch the show, please come join in on the fun as the show airs!

Did you set your clocks back an hour? This is the time change I enjoy rather than that annoying "spring forward" change. I recall last year that wasn't the case, though. Last year I was still deep into a power outage from Hurricane Sandy -- daylight was precious and not to be wasted. As I wasn't working the clock change day, I actually slept in. When I awoke and realized (thanks to my cell phone) that it would be dark an hour earlier in the evening, I almost cried. My candles and batteries were both running low at that time into the ordeal. No open stores for miles seemed have any. Thankfully I had plenty of batteries for my MP3 player which is also a radio. That was my big link with the outside world.

Last year at this time I was living in a weird post-Sandy surreal kind of existence. This year was much different. Our weather this week was mostly sunny with above seasonal temperatures. Overnight last night, the colder air crept in. Oh well, it is that time of year. Last year around this time we had snow on top of the Sandy woes. I can't complain.

On Wednesday it was overcast, but I made my way over to Westfield for a Mindowaskin Park and Trader Joe's visit. As a result, lots of fall foliage and (of course) duck shots in today's entry. I've always loved Trader Joe's, but thought it was small and cramped. Oh my gosh, I love it even more now because it's more than doubled in size! I noticed during my latest visit that, in addition to the wine and beer they carry, they now have a small section of actual hard liquor. Most are name brands, but I did pick up a bottle of Trader Joe's brand "Rum of the Gods." It was very reasonably priced and I think I'll make cookies with it and have an occasional rum and Coke. I'm not a big drinker, but I occasionally will imbibe.

The kids actually had Halloween in the city this year after two years of it being canceled. Last year was Sandy, the year before a six inch snowstorm. Both resulted in downed wires and downed trees for Halloween. Even though the holiday was on, I kept up with having no trick-or-treaters here at my apartment. I haven't had any for the dozen years I've lived here. As I arrived back in town after work, I did see the downtown streets full of children in costume. Good for them!

On Saturday, I had the day off from work to attend the Plainfield Library Photo Contest Exhibition opening and awards presentation. Going into the contest this year, I had trouble with the theme of "Plainfield Celebrates." I usually work on Saturdays when they hold the fun city events.  I also had trouble getting the Saturday off to attend the event as a new boss didn't like the short notice although I've said I needed a Saturday off in November for nearly two months. I just didn't know which one!

Much to my surprise, I won first prize for a photo I really love, but thought too somber for a win. I won a third place prize for a photo I took the 4th of July parade the last knee replacement recovery summer (which is why I had the parade Saturday off). And I won a Special Time Capsule Award for a photo I took during Sandy recovery, the only Sandy-related photo entered. The photos in the competition become a part of the local history archives in the library. Just as we look back on photos of days gone by, someday in the future folks will be checking these photos out for a clue about what our lives are like.

On the home front, the workers showed up yesterday to do Crazy Joe's (across the hall) windows and the common area/stairway windows. It's amazing how much better the building looks with all the new windows! I think the only windows which remain to be done are the ones in the stairway by the elevator. They'll probably show up this morning to do them. If my "huge" five dollar rent increase hadn't gone down in the beginning of September, I'd be very worried about a rent hike with all the building improvements.

Eep, this is way long-winded and there are tons of photos, as well. Let's get to it! If you click on an image, it will take you to the Photobucket page with a larger image. Close that page to return directly back to the blog!

Eagle! Bald eagle in flight!

Unfortunately I didn't get any great photos of it. I spotted it flying over my workplace near the Bridgewater Train Station. At first I thought it was a large hawk, but then I noticed the white head and tail. EAGLE! Woot! Woot! I watched it for nearly a half-hour. Alas, it decided to either fly too high or to soar too fast when flying low and this was the best shot I got of it. But, man ... an eagle here in Central Jersey! While I've seen some in the far north part of the state and also in Connecticut, it's a first for here.

True dat

In front of the First Unitarian Society of Plainfield on Park Avenue. I also can't help but notice the Amazing Taste lunch truck in the background. Mmm.

What? Mums again? Yes!

These were growing in a planter on Elm Street in Westfield.

**CLICK THE 'READ MORE' LINK TO SEE THE REST OF THE PHOTOS**

Survivor: Blood vs. Water - October 30 Blog Party

Good evening! Happy Mischief Night to all! Hopefully we'll see some sort of mischief on the show tonight. Now, that could be fun. The tribes switched up last week leaving Vytas alone with the women on on tribe, Ciera alone with the men on the other. Vytas managed to last through one tribal council. But I'm not sure he can make it through another if the women decide to stick together!

Here's the latest on the blog pool from Travelin' Lifeguard Laurie:

Galang 
KATIE -- David, Margo, Zoetawny
LAURA B -- Buzzmaan, Laurie, SueGee
MONICA -- Becky, KayBeeRN, Russ
TINA -- Cheryl in NC, Lynn1, Terry in TX
VYTAS -- Donna NY, ML

Tadhana
ARAS -- Donna in FL, MikesGirl
CALEB -- Glenn, ORKMommy
CIERA -- Andrea J, Karen in CA, Rochelle
GERVASE -- Jackie, Pam in NJ HAYDEN -- Joanie, Quixotic Elf
TYSON -- Delee, meb

Redemption Island 
JOHN -- Ed in Ohio, Nana in the NW
LAURA M -- AlbGlinka, JOKATS, rbennie
KAT -- Jig, Petals

Off the Island 
RUPERT -- Brian, Kelsey NY, Sharon S.
RACHEL -- Donna in AL, Merrilee MARISSA -- Jennas Mom, PDX Granny CANDICE -- Dusty, Monty924
BRAD -- Brent McKee, Kelly D. Sharon N.

Quit 
COLTON -- Gaylos, Nickelpeed

As the show airs here on the east coast, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. Refresh this page to get the latest. But, as you all know, the real party is in the comments area. Come join us!

It's Duel Time! Let's see if Kat has a complete meltdown. She sobbed and hung onto Hayden before they got started. Oops. Hayden said his relationship with her is stronger than the game. Will he take Jeff's bait and swap places with her? 

When Hayden asks what's their best longterm shot for the win, Kat said he stands more of a chance to win it all. She duels. Untie knots, release machete, hack rope, release puzzle pieces and then, of course, a puzzle. John finishes first! Laura is second, Kat is gone. John once again gives the clue to Monica. She burns it again. 

Uh-oh. Aras seriously thinks that Gervase and Tyson can be trusted. Oops.

The Immunity Challenge has the tribes chained together at the ankle, navigating obstacles, collecting bags, making bolos and throwing them. The reward is a fried chicken picnic. 

It was fairly close, but Tadhana wins. 

Gah. Laura B. tells Vytas they've decided to vote him out. I wonder if that might do her in instead.

Tribal Council time -- Laura once again says that Vytas will be leaving. @@

The tally: Vytas, Laura B, Laura B, Laura B.

She blew it for herself. She's off to Redemption Island.

Next week a person returns from Redemption Island and the merge is ON! 

The Amazing Race - October 27, 2013 Blog Party

Oh my. The show might even be on time-ish tonight here on the East Coast. I believe it might be a few minutes late. But I wasn't watching the football game, so I can't be sure.

Last week we had one of those "To be continued ..." endings with the first place team being told to keep racing. Yet, they did win their prize. Hmm. As the show airs here tonight, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. I know we have a Double U-Turn ahead.

Since there was no resolution to last week's leg, Margo's blog pool standings remain the same --

Ally And Ashley - LafayetteLisanne, Jackie,Tammy
Brandon And Adam - Donna in FL, Monty924, Sharon
Jason And Amy - Nicklepeed, PDXGranny, Brian, DLA
Leo And Jamal - MEB, Margo, Brenda, Caela
Nicky And Kim - Nana in NW, Jennasmom, David
Tim And Danny - JOKATS, Dusty, Zoetawny
Tim And Marie - SueGee, DKNYNC, Rbennie
Travis And Nicole - Delee, Laurie, Lynn1, Merrilee

Sorry you have been PHILIMINATED
Hoskote And Naina
Rowan And Shane - ML, Becky, Cheryl in NC, KayBeeRN
Chester And Ephraim - Buzzmaam, Donna in AL, Sharon S

*************************************
8:07pm ET and 60 Minutes just ended. Tim and Marie did end up giving the extra Express Pass to the doctors, Travis and Nicole. That was in exchange for Pit Stop information.

Pit Stop continuation ...
2. Jason and Amy
Then three couples came in at once. Gah! I can't keep track!
Nicky and Kim were the last team to arrive, still in it, still racing.

All teams are even again on a boat and heading for Poland.

Detour - Pose or Polka. Copy stance of Neptune statue and get money from tourists. Polka is dancing, but of course! Uh-oh. At least the Neptune people have to wear their costumes until the end of the leg. Tim or Danny (whichever) might have to wear a dress!

U-Turn is just a'waiting ahead. Jason and Amy don't use the U-Turn.

Tim and Marie decide to use their Express Pass because they fear both Detours and the double U-Turn. So far, no one has used the U-Turn.

Eek! Tim and Danny U-Turned Leo and Jamal. They're the first to use it.

Roadblock -- Who has a sweet tooth? They have to search the longest apartment building in Poland for a certain pastry ... and they need to be nice. Since Tim and Marie aren't in costume, it's obvious they used the Express Pass.

Leo and Jamal U-Turned Brandon and Adam. Sigh. I was liking Brandon and Adam.

After completing the Roadblock, the teams must meet Phil on the longest pier in Europe. The last team checking in MAY be eliminated.

1. Tim and Marie - Won a trip to Hawaii
2. Jason and Amy
3. Nicole and Travis
4. Nicky and Kim
5. Tim and Danny
6. Leo and Jamal
7. Ally and Ashley
8. Brandon and Adam -- Philiminated. Wah.

Off Topic: That Was the Week It Was - October 27, 2013

Good Sunday morning to everyone near and far! Welcome to my weekly off television topic reflection on the week gone by in both words and photographs I've taken along the way. Later tonight I'll be hosting the blog party for The Amazing Race episode. But now we're talking off topic.

By Wednesday of this week our temperatures dipped here to a bit below average and that's where they remain. I don't mind. Sure, it's a bit chilly, but I like the nip in the air. And, at least we don't have a monster storm looming on the horizon as we did last year at this time. It even looks like the kids will have Halloween for the first time in two years around here. Last year we had Sandy with wires and trees down all over and no power. The year before we had a snowstorm with wires and trees down and no power. Sandy was a lot more horrific, but the snowstorm knocked us out for three days nonetheless.

I keep disrupting the writing of this entry to go down to the front entrance of my building looking for my Sunday newspaper. Sheesh. It was finally there at 7:15. It used to be out there by 6am. The longer it sits out there, the more of a chance it will disappear.

Often it seems that I'm the only one up early in the morning on Sundays. Not so much today. Every time I went to the elevator, it was on a different floor. Then, once I had my paper in hand, I had to go down to the basement before I could head up to my floor. A man from the floor above me was already in the elevator heading down there with his laundry. I also saw someone going up the back stairs (we have glass doors leading to them). Hmm. I hope they're not all vampires or zombies at this early hour!

Let's see. What else? Well, work is a bit hectic once again. Or still. I have a new boss who doesn't really seem to be used to a very busy atmosphere. She's learning. As for me, I can only do what I can do. I can suggest things to her, but that's about it. I'm still training new management -- she's not new, just new to us. Oh well, it keeps the roof over my head and Vincent gets his catnip, cat treats and cat toys!

Back on the home front, it looks like all the windows except for Crazy Joe's across the hall have been done. That's odd as he's been fussing about wanting new windows for nearly ten years now. Since Mario the super seems to be knocking on doors to set up times for them to be done instead of calling, maybe they just haven't caught Joe at home.

Heck, Mario was lucky he caught me. Had he tried in the evening, I usually don't answer door knocks unless I'm expecting someone. They're usually people wanting us to switch our electrical supplier, FIOS, Spanish speaking Jehovah's Witnesses or Farrakhan's Nation of Islam folks. The latter two have absolutely no interest in me. We have an intercom system. If I don't let someone in the building, I pretty much don't want to see them.

Onto this week's photos ...

Defying the season

The roses at one home on East Front Street in Plainfield want to believe it's still spring.

I see the light!

My early morning train arrives in the dark of night. Well, pre-dawn. Plainfield Train Station, NJ Transit.

**CLICK THE 'READ MORE' LINK TO SEE THE REST OF THE PHOTOS**

Survivor: Blood vs. Water - October 23 Episode Blog Party

Ah, tonight's the night! In the promos, Jeff is supposed to be "mixing it up" with the tribes. I wonder how they're going to do that ... will "loved ones" be on the same tribe? Will it be by gender? Hmm.

As the show airs here on the East Coast, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. Refresh the page to get the latest! But, as always, the real party is in the comments area. Come watch (and party) with us!

But first ... here are the latest blog pool standings from Lifeguard Laurie (who's hoping to see pretty leaves and a possible snowflake this week) --

Galang Team
ARAS -- Donna in FL, MikesGirl
GERVASE -- Jackie, Pam in NJ
KAT -- Jig, Petals
LAURA B -- Buzzmaan, Laurie, SueGee
MONICA -- Becky, KayBeeRN, Russ
TINA -- Cheryl in NC, Lynn1, Terry in TX
TYSON -- Delee, meb

Tadhana
CALEB -- Glenn, ORKMommy
CIERA -- Andrea J, Karen in CA, Rochelle
HAYDEN -- Joanie, Quixotic Elf
KATIE -- David, Margo, Zoetawny
VYTAS -- Donna NY, ML

Redemption Island
JOHN -- Ed in Ohio, Nana in the NW
BRAD -- Brent McKee, Kelly D. Sharon N.
LAURA M -- AlbGlinka, JOKATS, rbennie

Off the Island
RUPERT -- Brian, Kelsey NY, Sharon S.
RACHEL -- Donna in AL, Merrilee
MARISSA -- Jennas Mom, PDX Granny
CANDICE -- Dusty, Monty924

Quit
COLTON -- Gaylos, Nickelpeed

 ********************************************

Survivor fans ready?

Time for the duel! Laura won't let Ciera switch with her. They're on a balance beam untying bags of number tiles. They have to complete a "puzzle" with the numbers. Laura wins! John comes in second place. Bye-bye Brad Culpepper. Laura chooses to give the hidden immunity idol clue to Vitas. She doesn't want to put the target on Ciera's back. Vitas doesn't want it either and it goes in the fire.

Here comes the switch-up.

Er, after the commercial, that is.

"Drop your buffs, we're going to draw for new tribes." Tyson goes last so the fates can decide. Gervase, Aras and Tyson switch, with Ciera being the only woman on that tribe (Tadhana). Vytas is the only man on his tribe (Galang).

Caleb shared the hidden idol clue and Tyson is already a food sneak once again. Tyson is also trying to get any target on himself switched to Aras. Meanwhile, Vytas is working on fitting in with his women.

Immunity challenge time ... diving down to a cage, releasing gate, getting puzzle fish trap, vertical puzzle. Reward is a picnic lunch including sandwiches and brownies.

Eek! Laura and Tina forgot to get the trap! Sheesh! Despite that, they almost won the challenge. But it was indeed a Tadhana win.

Kat worries about Monica strategizing too much. Tina told Monica. Kat lies to Tina. Hmm. Vytas might be able to squeak by this week. Things seem between Kat and Vytas even though I'd rather see Monica go.

Tribal Council time.

The tally: Vytas, Kat, Kat, Kat, Kat ... Hayden's gal is headed to Redemption Island!

The Amazing Race: October 20, 2013 Episode Blog Party

Tonight's episode isn't scheduled to start here until 8:30pm (ET) due to football games. You know how I love that. Grr. Once it does start, I'll post the major happenings here in this entry as it airs. But, as always, the real party will be in the comments area. Everyone is welcome to join in!

Here's the latest blog pool standings from Margo the Magnificent:

Ally And Ashley - LafayetteLisanne, Jackie,Tammy
Brandon And Adam - Donna in FL, Monty924, Sharon
Jason And Amy - Nicklepeed, PDXGranny, Brian, DLA
Leo And Jamal - MEB, Margo, Brenda, Caela
Nicky And Kim - Nana in NW, Jennasmom, David
Tim And Danny - JOKATS, Dusty, Zoetawny
Tim And Marie - SueGee, DKNYNC, Rbennie
Travis And Nicole - Delee, Laurie, Lynn1, Merrilee

Sorry you have been PHILIMINATED
Hoskote And Naina
Rowan And Shane - ML, Becky, Cheryl in NC, KayBeeRN
Chester And Ephraim - Buzzmaam, Donna in AL, Sharon S

***************************************

It's starting! The teams are heading off to Norway next! All teams are on the same flight this time.

Detour - Hang Your Heads (hanging fish heads) or Hammering the Cods (smashing cod into jerky).Heh. Tim and Marie (the evil ones) don't know they're hanging their heads on an unmarked pole instead of a marked one. Everyone is passing them!

Roadblock - Who's the biggest swinger? An arctic plunge from a bridge in a harness, then a swim for the clue. Then they have to pull a boulder with a brand placement vehicle to get their next clue.

Ha! Tim and Marie left their clue behind thinking the coins they found were the clue.

Can you tell I'm not keen on Tim and Marie?

Pit Stop:
1. Brandon and Adam - also won $5,000 each.

Uh-oh ... the teams are still racing. They got a clue to carry on.

Heehee. The doctors realize Tim and Marie don't know where the Pit Stop is and try to get the spare Express Pass from them.

Then we get "To be continued."

Sigh.

On a bright note, they played a bit of Fish Heads by Barnes and Barnes during the credits.

Double U-Turn ahead next week!

Off Topic: That Was the Week It Was - October 20, 2013

Good morning! It's Sunday morning, yep. You know what that means. It's time for my weekly off television topic reflection on the week gone by in both words and photographs I've taken along the way. Later tonight we'll have The Amazing Race blog party. I do hope to see you there!

I do have a few television related things I'd like to bring up before I get into the week. Odd, but both have to do with commercials --

First, I see the YouTube "Kid President" is now on the Meineke commercials. Very nice. Not only is his upbeat attitude infectious, but he has some serious health issues -- he has a brittle bone disease and has suffered over 70 broken bones so far in his life. It's good when good things happen to someone who's had their share of bad.

Second, as I was watching Brooklyn Nine-Nine (one of the only new sitcoms I haven taken to so far this year), I was wondering if there would be an Allstate "Mayhem" commercial as Dean Winters was the guest. Yup, there was!

Okay, enough television for the off television topic post!

My week started last Sunday morning -- yes, it always does, but this was different! Workmen showed up to rip out my old original (about 50 years old) windows and replace them. What an ordeal that was! They were supposed to have been here the day before, but switched to Sunday. That's good in a way as I was home on Sunday, not Saturday. The project lasted from about 9am until 1pm, partially because the contractors were doing another apartment at the same time. I wouldn't want them in here when I wasn't home and the super (whom I trust) can't be everywhere at once. Poor Vincent was trapped in the bathroom for all that time. There's a window in there, but it only leads out to the ventilation chute. That one wasn't replaced.

The landlord who bought this building about a year and a half ago has really made many improvements. New attractive glass entrance doors on the side and front. Railings for the steps at the door in the rear as well as a raised platform for the exit -- rain water used to puddle right in front of the door. New washers and dryers in the laundry room. Brighter lighting in the stairways and halls. IF the elevator goes wonky, it's fixed within a day.  They also installed a new emergency phone in there -- one I'm less likely to accidentally set off while toting packages or bags. Heck, they even fixed the light on the first floor button in the elevator. I can't recall that working in the past ten years. This landlord is the first (out of four since I've lived here) who has actually stopped ALL the leaks from the apartment above me! And, they only raised my rent $5 this year.

All that said, I do wish they'd watch how many people, including children, live in the apartments. I don't see how, when the building is only studio, one bedroom and two bedroom units, people can have five kids in an apartment ... often with two adults! There's a sticker from 1983 inside one of my kitchen cabinets saying my unit passed inspection and maximum occupancy is two tenants. Mine is a one bedroom. I guess that's all changed, huh?

In other news, I had good news this past week on the personal front. At least, good prospective news. I'll go more into things when (and if) they come to fruition. One has to do with blogging, the other with photography. Ah, two of my passions! 

The weather this past week wasn't as dreary as the last few. What rain we had confined itself to the overnight hours. As it should, of course! So, I got in some decent photos. This week it's supposed to be about ten degrees cooler on the average. That's okay with me. I have new less drafty windows!

Red leaves in the sun

Although the leaves are growing more sparse, the color is glorious at this tree outside the Friends Meeting House (Quakers) on Watchung Avenue in Plainfield.

Late season bee

This one's working the spotted knapwood at the Bridgewater Train Station.

**CLICK THE 'READ MORE' LINK TO SEE THE REST OF THE PHOTOS**

Survivor: Blood vs. Water - October 16 Blog Party

Good evening, Survivor fans! The promos for tonight's show are hinting quite blatantly at yet another blindside. It brings to mind last week's show in which it seems like Caleb all of a sudden thinks he's in charge after Brad's ouster. While I so didn't want another season of Colton (and got my wish), as of this point, I've kind of liked Caleb. Hmm ... wonder if the blindside will be him.

How's the swimming, you ask? Well, the water's just fine. For some of us, that is. Here are the latest standings from the Super Soaker LifeGuard Laurie:

End of Week Three 10/9
Galang Team
ARAS -- Donna in FL, MikesGirl
GERVASE -- Jackie, Pam in NJ
KAT -- Jig, Petals
LAURA B -- Buzzmaan, Laurie, SueGee
LAURA M -- AlbGlinka, JOKATS, rbennie
MONICA -- Becky, KayBeeRN, Russ
TINA -- Cheryl in NC, Lynn1, Terry in TX
TYSON -- Delee, meb

Tadhana
CALEB -- Glenn, ORKMommy
CIERA -- Andrea J, Karen in CA, Rochelle
HAYDEN -- Joanie, Quixotic Elf
KATIE -- David, Margo, Zoetawny
VYTAS -- Donna NY, ML

Redemption Island
CANDICE -- Dusty, Monty924
JOHN -- Ed in Ohio, Nana in the NW
BRAD -- Brent McKee, Kelly D. Sharon N.

Off the Island
RUPERT -- Brian, Kelsey NY, Sharon S.
RACHEL -- Donna in AL, Merrilee
MARISSA -- Jennas Mom, PDX Granny

Quit
COLTON -- Gaylos, Nickelpeed

*********************************

As the show airs here on the East Coast, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. Refresh this page to get the latest! But, as you know, the real party is in the comments -- come join in on the fun!

Redemption Island Duel Time!
They have to build a bridge with planks, then un-build it and solve the puzzle with the planks. John wins! Brad comes in second. Candice is out of the game. He once again gives Monica the clue to the hidden idol. She once again tosses it in the fire.

Ew. They really don't need to show us disgusting wounds and toenails falling off. Ew.

Time for the Immunity Challenge!
Race down a slide, grab a ring, toss on a post, get a point for the tribe. Reward is steak, vegetables, spices and a wok ... or fishing gear.

OH MY GOSH! Tadhana won a challenge! About time! They chose the steak, possibly not the best decision as they could use the fishing gear for the rest of the game.

Aras would like Laura M. to be the vote as she might knock Brad out of Redemption Island and thus become a better ally for their own game.

The tally: Laura B, Laura M, Laura M, Laura M, Laura M. She's blindsided and headed to Redemption Island.

Ah, looks like Jeff is mixing things up with the tribes at the next Redemption Duel. Hmm ...

The Amazing Race: October 13, 2013 Episode Blog Party

Oh my gosh! The show is starting on time tonight here on the East Coast! Woohoo! I guess that must mean the pigs are flying over Hoboken!

As it airs, I'll update this entry with the major happenings -- refresh the page to get the latest! However, the real party is where it always is ... in the comments area. Come join us!

Margo's latest blog pool standings:
Ally And Ashley - LafayetteLisanne, Jackie,Tammy
Brandon And Adam - Donna in FL, Monty924, Sharon
Chester And Ephraim - Buzzmaam, Donna in AL, Sharon S
Jason And Amy - Nicklepeed, PDXGranny, Brian, DLA
Leo And Jamal - MEB, Margo, Brenda, Caela
Nicky And Kim - Nana in NW, Jennasmom, David
Tim And Danny - JOKATS, Dusty, Zoetawny
Tim And Marie - SueGee, DKNYNC, Rbennie
Travis And Nicole - Delee, Laurie, Lynn1, Merrilee

Sorry you have been PHILIMINATED
Hoskote And Naina
Rowan And Shane - ML, Becky, Cheryl in NC, KayBeeRN

***************************

Teams are flying to Lisbon, Portugal.

Once in Lisbon, a painting clue heads them to the Coach Museum and a Detour clue -- Tiles (making a figure of tiles) or Miles (figuring mileage between several cities on Magellan's journey from a giant map).

Roadblock - Who has s hand for slings and arrows? Dressed in armor, they have to shoot arrows at a target with a huge contraption. Then it will be onto a castle for the Pit Stop.

The last team to arrive MAY be eliminated.

Pit Stop --
1. Nicole and Travis, won a trip to Costa Rica
2. Jason and Amy
3. Nicky and Kim
4. Tim and Danny
5. Brandon and Adam
6. Leo and Jamal
7. Ally and Ashley
8. Tim and Marie

Sigh. Phil meets Chester and Ephraim at the airport when they arrive after all the other teams already made it to the Pit Stop. Their bad luck flight streak did them in ... Philiminated.

Off Topic: That Was the Week It Was - October 13, 2013

Yep. It's once again Sunday morning! G'mornin' to ya! This is my weekly off television topic reflection on the week gone by in both words and photographs I've taken along the way. Later this evening, you're all invited to the blog party for The Amazing Race, but this here isn't about television.

It was a doldrums kind of week here with more gloomy skies than not. Thus, it was another week of not great photos for the most part. It's pitch-dark as I head to the train station most mornings. The saying "the darkest hour is before the dawn" is definitely right. While I'm not one to wander around Plainfield alone at night, walking to the train in the morning hours is different. The denizens of the dark are finally asleep and, while quiet, the folks I do see on my early morning walk are all heading to work ... just like me.

I come up with nicknames in my mind for those I encounter in my daily journeys:

• There's Banana Man at the Bridgewater Train Station. He parks his car at the Target parking lot across the street to avoid the $4 daily parking fee at the station. He's ALWAYS eating a banana as our paths cross.
• There's Confused Lady at the Plainfield Train Station. She's been taking the early train for a good six months now and still looks confused about where she wants to sit (on the mostly empty train) daily. She also looks befuddled every day when the conductor wants to take her ticket and takes forever to dig through her purse for one. If she catches the train home daily, she'd do better off with a monthly ticket, but it just might confuse her.
• There's the Waving Man outside Everybody's Food Market on East Front Street. He doesn't work for, but hangs around the market -- a Jamaican/West Indies run establishment -- during business hours. He arrives before the store opens, moves the newspaper stack out of the elements and sits in his car, apparently awaiting the person who opens. He always waves and says hello.
• There's Spike Lee Lookin' Dude with the shih tzu doggie. He usually has a cup of coffee in one hand, the dog leash in the other. We greet, small talk about the weather and go our separate ways.
• There's the regular bunch of Latino workers awaiting rides. These aren't guys looking for work -- they definitely have steady landscaping and/or construction jobs. They buy their breakfasts at the restaurant which used to be Mi Ranchito (don't think it still is) on East Front Street and tote small coolers for their lunches. They often say good morning in unison as I pass by.

 Oh well, onto the photos for this week ... 

Yay! Acorn season!

This squirrel at the Plainfield Train Station was one busy little dude.

Getting colorful

The foliage is still being very selective around here. Some trees, mostly smaller ones, are already barren. But, many trees are still green. I took this from North Avenue looking towards the Friends Meeting House on Watchung Avenue, Plainfield.

**CLICK THE 'READ MORE' LINK TO SEE THE REST OF THE PHOTOS**

Survivor: Blood vs. Water - October 9 Episode Blog Party

Oh my gosh ... is the newbie team ever going to win ANYTHING? At least, with the "loved ones" twist this season, there's a bit of a new dynamic in the midst due to the connections. Otherwise, it would just be another season of watching experienced veteran players trounce the newcomers.

As the show airs here on the East Coast, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. As always, the real party is in the comments. Please join us!

Here are the blog pool standings as of the last episode, brought to you by that ever-rockin' LifeGuard Laurie:

Galang
ARAS -- Donna in FL, MikesGirl
GERVASE -- Jackie, Pam in NJ
KAT -- Jig, Petals
LAURA B -- Buzzmaan, Laurie, SueGee
LAURA M -- AlbGlinka, JOKATS, rbennie
MONICA -- Becky, KayBeeRN, Russ
TINA -- Cheryl in NC, Lynn1, Terry in TX
TYSON -- Delee, meb

Tadhana
BRAD -- Brent McKee, Kelly D. Sharon N.
CALEB -- Glenn, ORKMommy
CIERA -- Andrea J, Karen in CA, Rochelle
HAYDEN -- Joanie, Quixotic Elf
KATIE -- David, Margo, Zoetawny
VYTAS -- Donna NY, ML

Redemption Island
CANDICE -- Dusty, Monty924
MARISSA -- Jennas Mom, PDX Granny
JOHN -- Ed in Ohio, Nana in the NW

Off the Island
RUPERT -- Brian, Kelsey NY, Sharon S.
RACHEL -- Donna in AL, Merrilee

Quit the game
COLTON -- Gaylos, Nickelpeed

****************************

Survivor fans ready? Let's partay! And, watch the show. Of course.

Redemption duel time!
Uh-oh. Husband and wife will have to duel against each other ... and Marissa.

They have to unravel a rope on a horizontal ladder doohicky, get puzzle pieces and solve a puzzle. John wins! Candice survives in second place and Marissa gets the boot. Candice told John to give the clue to the hidden idol to Monica. He went with it -- to put a target on Monica's back due to Brad being institutional in his tribal ouster. On Brad's advice, Monica burns the clue.

Immunity Challenge time!
Paddle out to crates (five of them), gather crates with puzzle pieces, solve puzzle, raise flag. Ho-hum. Reward is tea and biscotti or can be traded for fishing gear. Galang (veteran players) win once again. Oy.

Tribal Council
Ciera is worried, as she needs to be. Caleb should be worried. Whoa! Caleb says he will write Brad's name down and puts the rest on the spot.

The tally: Brad, Ciera, Ciera, Brad, Ciera, Brad. It's a tie. Re-vote time. We see Hayden scribble out where he started to write Ciera and put Brad's name instead.

The re-tally -- Brad, Ciera, Brad, Brad.

Big Bad Brad is headed to Redemption Island!

The Amazing Race: October 6 Blog Party

Grr. Once again we're delayed by football here on the East Coast. That's two for two, not good odds at all for the start of the season.

But, speaking of odds ... Margo has announced the blog pool random picks!

Ally And Ashley - LafayetteLisanne, Jackie,Tammy
Brandon And Adam - Donna in FL, Monty924, Sharon
Chester And Ephraim - Buzzmaam, Donna in AL, Sharon S
Jason And Amy - Nicklepeed, PDXGranny, Brian, DLA
Leo And Jamal - MEB, Margo, Brenda, Caela
Nicky And Kim - Nana in NW, Jennasmom, David
Rowan And Shane - ML, Becky, Cheryl in NC, KayBeeRN
Tim And Danny - JOKATS, Dusty, Zoetawny
Tim And Marie - SueGee, DKNYNC, Rbennie
Travis And Nicole - Delee, Laurie, Lynn1, Merrilee

Sorry you have been PHILIMINATED
Hoskote And Naina

Although I'm putting the post up at the normal 8pm ET start time, I can't update this entry until the show comes on. Once it does, as it airs, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. As always ... the real party is in the comments area. Come join us!

I expect the show to start here in the NYC area at about 8:45pm. Grr.

8:45pm ET -- Finally we have theme music and the show is starting!

The first clue has them in a bunching situation with a ship not opening until morning. Then it's off to the salt mines.

Detour - Has them riding bikes, choosing between brining and mining tasks. Then they take a thousand-mile bus trip to Santiago, Chile.

The Roadblock has them shining shoes, putting together a shoe shine stand and delivering it.

Pit Stop order --
Leo and Jamal got there first, but hadn't paid the cab right.

1. Chester and Ephraim - they won a trip for two
2. Leo and Jamal
3. Brandon and Adam
4.Jason and Amy
5. Travis and Nicole
6. Tim and Danny
7. Ally and Ashley
8. Tim and Marie
9. Nicky and Kim
10. Rowan and Shane -- Philiminated

Off Topic: That Was the Week It Was - October 6, 2013

It's Sunday morning. Good morning to ya! A bit later I will post the blog pool picks for The Amazing Race and the blog party post as the show airs here on the East Coast. But, you're at my weekly off television topic post reflecting on the week gone by in both words and photographs I've taken along the way.

We had another rather muggy and warm week here in this area. While the temperatures weren't bad at all, muggy isn't my favorite kind of weather. It's supposed to rain tomorrow night and the weather following that should be more seasonable for this time of year here. Good. Of course, I think all of us have a bit of trepidation as we head to the year anniversary date of Sandy. I don't particularly want to be a Rider on the Storm again this year!

My week was a bit uneventful once again. Work, home, eat, sleep and pay a lot of attention to a certain cat. I received my box of goodies ordered from Amazon.com with a gift certificate from my brother. So, I've started reading Stephen King's newest book (hardcover first release, half price!), enjoying new bath salts (not the drug kind, mind you) and bath foam, and playing with my new knives. Er, cutlery set. My other set was about 35 years old, its block discolored over the years and some of the knives broken or missing. It was time. I have a Peapod grocery delivery coming today and will get a chance to test out the slicer knife on a small roast. Woot.

Y'see, it's the little things. As the Rolling Stones say, "You can't always get what you want, you get what you need." I needed relaxing baths, an interesting book and knives!

Otherwise on the home front, all is quiet for the most part. The upstairs neighbor is still the best one ever up there and it's a relief to not worry about my bathroom ceiling flooding.

Last night coming home, it was dark but the streets in Plainfield seemed quite alive with skateboarders, couples walking, families with children in strollers and it all seemed very mellow. Probably there won't be too many evenings like that left. When I got to the bodega near my apartment, someone was playing P-Funk and people were nodding their heads to the music and they said hello. It all seemed so urban, yet so small town homey.

Oh well, the super just knocked on my door. Yes, on a Sunday morning. He wanted to set up a date to put new windows in. When they replaced the windows on the first floor last year, they told me not all the apartments will be getting them. I've noticed more and more getting them over the past few weeks. While new windows are going to be nice, it's definitely worrisome with Vincent and my work schedule. We decided he'll come by next Saturday around 8am before I leave for work. I'll put Vincent in my big old cat carrier crate thing before I go and they'll set him loose in the apartment when they leave.

Onto this week's photos, nothing really fancy once again ...

Who's your mum(s)?

Yep, 'tis the season of the mum. I found these on Berckman Street in Plainfield.

Let there be roses

Still hanging in nicely on East Front Street in Plainfield.

**CLICK ON THE 'READ MORE' LINK TO SEE THE REST OF THE PHOTOS**

Survivor: Blood vs. Water - October 2 Blog Party

Guess what day it is! Why, it's Survivor day, silly camel! Maybe tonight we'll see Colton (who should never darken my silver screen again) quit ... once again. As the show airs here, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. Y'all know the real party is in the comments, right?

A few things before we get started:

• If you want in on the blog pool for The Amazing Race run by the Amazing Margo, you need to go to this post to sign up. The deadline is Friday, midnight ET. 

The current blog pool standings (LifeGuard Laurie rocks!) for Survivor: Blood vs. Water going into tonight's show are:

Galang
ARAS -- Donna in FL, MikesGirl
COLTON -- Gaylos, Nickelpeed
GERVASE -- Jackie, Pam in NJ
KAT -- Jig, Petals
LAURA B -- Buzzmaan, Laurie, SueGee
LAURA M -- AlbGlinka, JOKATS, rbennie
MONICA -- Becky, KayBeeRN, Russ
TINA -- Cheryl in NC, Lynn1, Terry in TX
TYSON -- Delee, meb

Tadhana 
BRAD -- Brent McKee, Kelly D. Sharon N.
CALEB -- Glenn, ORKMommy
CIERA -- Andrea J, Karen in CA, Rochelle
HAYDEN -- Joanie, Quixotic Elf
JOHN -- Ed in Ohio, Nana in the NW
KATIE -- David, Margo, Zoetawny
VYTAS -- Donna NY, ML

Redemption Island
CANDICE -- Dusty, Monty924
MARISSA -- Jennas Mom, PDX Granny
RACHEL -- Donna in AL, Merrilee

Off the Island 
RUPERT -- Brian, Kelsey NY, Sharon S.

Survivor fans ready?

Redemption Island time. Tyson realizes Rachel was ousted in the hopes of getting him to take her place. He's staying with his tribe. Colton's crying (AGAIN) and says he doesn't want to be there any longer.

I say, don't let the palm frond hit you on the way out, Colton.

Ah, Jeff brought up that his last exit was faked! He fusses more and then quits. He then runs to Caleb and cries. Caleb stays! Cool. I have no issues with Caleb other than his weird affection for Colton.

The duel is a dominoes type challenge. Candice wins! Marissa comes in second. Rachel (Tyson's gal) is sent packing. Candice give John a second clue to the hidden idol.

John decided to share the idol clues with Brad. But Brad isn't sure that John really trusts him or, for that matter, that he might not really trust John.

The Immunity Challenge has them dueling their loved ones a pair at a time on a platform on the water. The reward is either comfort (mosquito net, etc.) or fishing gear.

Galang wins Immunity once again. They get the comfort items as they already won fishing gear.

Brad, worried that John will go with Candice after the merge instead of him, wants to break up the Five Guys (no burgers and fries) alliance and blindside John. The guys are suspicious and think they should vote out Brad. Brad told them the clues to the idol.

Tribal Council time -- the tally --
Cierra, John, John, John, John. John goes to Redemption Island. Thanks, Candice!

The Amazing Race: Season Premiere Blog Party!

Yep, it's the big night -- the season premiere of The Amazing Race -- and it's delayed due to a football game here on the East Coast. Grr. I believe it's going to start about fifteen minutes late here even though I'm getting this post up on time at the right time! (Grr.) This isn't a good way to start out the season, for sure. Once again I implore CBS to revamp their lineup on Sunday evenings! Go ahead and SCHEDULE 60 Minutes at 8pm ET instead of 7pm, schedule the prime time shows accordingly and drop one from the evening. If no sports run over 7pm, use sports filler until 8pm. It's not so much that our show comes on later -- it's more of a bother to me that it's so unpredictable week to week!

</ vent>

Once again, there will be a blog pool going for the show. I know Merrilee was the winner last year (and she kept reminding us, as she should). Who will win this year? We're starting the pool with the second week (next Sunday). Please sign up on the blog pool sign up post as your message might be missed elsewhere. Margo is the lady in charge and she always rocks! Please have your name in by Friday night, 10/05, by midnight ET!

As the show airs here, once it starts, I'll update this post with the major happenings. But, as always, the real party is in the comments ... come join the fun!

They're starting off in the "old Wild West" and heading off to South America. The first place winner of the first leg gets two Express Passes -- one they keep, the other to give to a team of their choice. Heading to Chile, two flights available.

The Roadblock has one partner on each team paragliding while the other follows them.

A second Roadblock has them collecting fish from fishing boats while in a rowboat and delivering them to the fish monger.

Uh-oh. The doctors team -- Nicole and Travis -- in first place takes a cab to the Pit Stop instead of walking as per the clue. 30 minute penalty.

Pit Stop --
1. Tim and Marie (locals from Morristown, NJ) won both Express Passes.
2. Doctors Nicole and Travis (after their penalty)
3. Rowan and Shane
4. Chester and Ephraim
5. Nicky and Kim
6. Ally and Ashley
7. Leo and Jamal
8. Jason and Amy
9. Tim and Danny
10. Brandon and Adam

Hpskote and his daughter Naina were the last team to arrive. Philiminated. That's okay. I don't think I could deal with watching that father much longer!