Survivor 38: Edge of Extinction - Season Finale Blog Party

Well, here we are -- season finale time. All but two castaways from the start of the season remain in the game. That's so to speak, I guess. While it's been interesting, it's definitely not a "twist" I hope to see repeated. We have five castaways playing the game with thirteen (!) more over in Extinction. One will be coming back tonight. And, they will need to get rid of three to get to the final three. Um. Okay. Whatever.

I'll be live blogging the major events as tonight's show airs here on the East Coast. Please refresh this page to get the latest news! As always, the real party is in the comments area -- feel free to join in on the fun!

Lifeguard Laurie has been diligently watching y'all in the blog pool. Here are the latest standings:

Gavin Whitson -- Brenda, KelseyNY
Julie Rosenberg -- Delee, MikesGirl
Lauren O'Connell -- Brian, Krysta Gibbon, Sharon N.
Rick Devens -- Auntie Leigh, Merrilee
Victoria Baamonde -- Indiana Jane, Karen in VS, SueGee

Jury & Extinction
Reem Daly -- David, Terry is a Texan, Sharon C
Chris Underwood -- Glenn Allen, Laurie
Aubry Bracco * -- Cheryl in NC, Margo, Petals
Eric Hafemann -- Bizaro22, Pinky, Shannon
Joe Anglim * -- Carol C, Kismet
Julia Carter -- Donna in FL, Monty924, Jennifer
David Wright * -- Dr_Celine, PDX Granny, Renee Buck
Kelley Wentworth * -- Donna in NY, Jenna G.
Dan DaSilva "Wardog" -- Jackie, Nana in the NW
Ron Clark -- Cherry Pie, Judi Sweeney, Rochelle
Aurora McCreary -- Ed in Ohio, marthalight

Let's see how the largest show jury will decide ... 

I guess they'll never film the finale in NYC again. They used to rotate between CA and NY.

We open up with a challenge for the extinct. Tied to a rope, through rope maze, obstacle course, untie knots, across a rope bridge, table maze, first to drop two balls gets back in the game.

Wardog, as usual, is lagging behind. He talked such a good game! Ron is slow, too. 

Joe, Eric and Aurora are leading. Aurora has one ball in. Joe has one in. Chris has one in. 

CHRIS WINS AND RETURNS TO THE GAME!

Jeff sits them all down and tells them that this was a social experiment. He starts off asking Reem her darkest moment. He then asks Joe and the theme seems to be never quitting for him. Onto David and what it's meant for him. He seems to think there's no place like home. Julia is grateful and now realizes how strong she is. Eric is all about his kids and not quitting. Aubry reminder of your true character. Kelley says she thought it was about game, not people and now realizes it's about who you are, not that you win. 

They get to not go back to Extinction but only Chris will play the game. Lots of tears. 

Live, Jeff calls Joe out. His hair is not in a man-bun. It's wild. Jeff asks him if a player like him can ever win? He asks if he might come back. He does have a feeling he'll come back. 

Chris hasn't even met some of the others. He tells them he does have information if people want to come talk to him. Thinking about it, he does have how the jury is leaning. He doesn't want to be immediately voted out. Victoria doesn't know him, but is worried about the two that do know him. He immediately teams up with Rick. But, since Rick backstabbed him before, can it last?

Chris also knows Lauren has an idol (because Kelley told him on Extinction). She's a bit leery. I think she's been a fairly strategic player. She's seriously thinking of trusting him.

Time for the first Immunity Challenge. Race through obstacles, across balance beam, collecting bags along the way, solve combination lock, puzzle. There is a reward of steak and chocolate cake for dessert.

Chris is doing poorly, but coaching Julie.

JULIE WINS IMMUNITY! 

She chooses Chris to go with her because he has never had Reward, nor even the merge feast. She then chooses Lauren as the second. That choice now has the others "very wary."

Julie tells us that she invited Chris to try to get Rick out of the game. Chris advises a split between Rick and Victoria because the jury thinks they're best for the end game. 

Victoria is telling the others that Chris needs to go because she thinks he'll work with Lauren and Julie. Rick isn't really keen to vote out Chris, but doesn't really trust him. He says he will be playing his idol tonight no matter what. He needs to know if Rick is working with him or against him. 

Rick and Chris talk. Chris tells him that he's loyal to him. Rick brings up the bag from Extinction … which contains the half of an idol like we had before. He gives Rick the half-idol. Chris tells Rick that Victoria is on the line. He tells us that he wants Lauren to play her idol for him. She says if Rick plays his, she will.

It's off to Tribal and Jeff's Probsting questions. He first asks Chris how he's adapting. Jeff brings up that Rick was ticked when Julie chose Lauren instead of him. Then he cries. Victoria thinks there's someone other than the easy vote Chris to go. Rick says it's him. Time to vote.

The tally … Rick plays his idol. Lauren plays her idol for Chris.

Rick, Rick, Rick, Chris, Victoria, Victoria

Victoria is gone. She tells Gavin she will vote for him.

In the middle of the night, Rick is up idol hunting. He put two fake idols out there with the notes from the real ones he had previously found. He found the real one! He gives Chris back the half, so now it's Chris and Rick with idols going into the final four. Julie thinks since two idols were played, there has to be another one. Julie finds an idol. Is it the fake? Lauren finds a scroll directing to an idol. (Rick's?) and gets the idol from there. Yep, Rick tells Chris that's a fake one.

Immunity Challenge time. Way up over the water, race over obstacles over the ocean gathering bags, solve puzzle.

Gavin and Chris are in the lead. Chris drops behind. Gavin and Rick in the lead. 

RICK WINS IMMUNITY!

Rick is beside himself with joy. He knows that they were all after him. He tells us both the Julie and Lauren idols are his fakes. He wants to play his idol on Chris if Gavin takes him final three and doesn't do a fire challenge. So, he's getting them to vote Chris who has a real idol. Julie is thinking since there were three idols, her own might be fake. Rick and Chris must decide which person will go home. The power is in their hand. They are tossing between Julie and Lauren.

Off to Tribal once again. Jeff talks about Rick's 4th immunity win and asks if it's due to the target on his back. Chris says he hopes his new bonds will get him through. They're talking about all the IFS going on. Trust issues are going on. 

Time to vote …

The tally --
It's the last night to play idols.

Julie tries to play the fake idol. Nope, no go. Lauren plays the fake idol, nope for her, too. Rick plays his real idol for Gavin. Chris plays his real idol for himself.

Chris, Chris, Chris, Lauren, Lauren.

Lauren is still giggling about all the fake idols and says it was so well played. She goes off wishing the others good luck.

The final four are Chris, Rick, Julie and Gavin. Both Chris and Rick were voted off before and won their way back in from Extinction.

Immunity Challenge time once again. Negotiate rocky walkway balancing blocks on a rope suspended pole, first to spell Final Three wins. Rick is doing horribly. Chis is leading. But, if the blocks drop, they have to start all over. He has all his blocks up and is retreating to the start. 

CHRIS WINS IMMUNITY! 

He gets to choose who will sit next to him and which two will fight for the third slot in a fire-making challenge.

Rick is a bit worried about Chris having control. He doesn't want to do fire. They do have practice time with the fire. He tries to convince Chris. Not so convincing, Chris thinks that Rick would be the million dollar winner over anyone. Chris is working with both Gavin and Julie to improve their fire skills. He wants them both to stand a chance to beat Rick. 

Going into the final Tribal now.

Both Gavin and Julie say they'll go fire. Gavin wants to go against Rick. 

Chris wants to have no regrets. He gives his necklace to Julie and HE will do fire against Rick. Wow. Julie and Gavin will be a part of the final three.

CHRIS DOES IT! HE'S IN THE FINAL THREE! Well played.

Rick Devens is now on the jury. Jeff talks to him live and Rick gets a standing ovation from the crowd.

Gavin, Julie and Chris are enjoying the fancy feast of a breakfast. Julie tells us she thinks she got to the final three because of the relationships she formed. Chris pleads his case to us. He doesn't have to convince me. At this time, he deserves the win in my opinion. Then Gavin wants us to think he's such a strong social player and adaptable.

Tribal jury time …
Outwit -- David asks strongest ally. Gavin says Victoria Chris says Rick. Julie says Ron and Eric and a secret relationship with Lauren. Chris is asked about social relationships on Extinction, he says providing food. Gavin says his social game was his strategic game. He denies being anyone's goat. Julie says she was going to use her emotional weakness as a strategy. Julie seems to be knocking some of the jury in pleading her case. Hmm. She needs to shut up. Gavin and Aubry click. 

Outplay -- Rick wants to know why so few found idols. Gavin said he looked a little. Rick wants to know if Chris had any advantages coming back. Chris brings up the final move. He also says you can't screw people around. His relationship with Rick was real. Gavin disagrees. Gavin is acting like Extinction is nothing. Wardog says it's about people playing better. 

Outlast -- Gavin says pretty much what he told us. He was playing for his family. Chris wanted to play a perfect game but got blindsided. When he came back he had to do the best move every time. Julie goes on about the life-changing personal journey. 

Time for the vote, but a commercial first.

Finally to the live show. We'll be in for a short reunion bit tonight. Just over a half-hour left.

The tally …

Gavin, Chris, Gavin, Chris, Gavin, Chris, Gavin, Chris, Chris, Chris, Chris …

Yep, I called it. 

CHRIS WINS!!!

Congratulations blog pool winners Laurie and Glenn Allen!

Reunion tidbits --
David Wright and Cochran are writing the CBS All Access Star Trek show
Jeff finally mentioned that he always calls Kelley "Wentworth."
Gavin again says "whenever" in place of the correct "when."
Rick wins Sia's award of $100,000. (She's done that a few seasons now.)

Next season will be …

Survivor: Two winners return Sandra and Boston Rob. Won't be competing, live on own island and mentor new players. Boot Camp. Survivor: Island of the Idols.

The Amazing Race 31: Episode 4 Blog Party

Wherever will we race to tonight? Since last week was a nonPhilimination, we know one team will be heading home tonight. Well, they don't actually go home. They get to be on a very cool vacation for the amount of time other teams run. Supposedly, that's to quell spoilers when a team gets home early. However, since they really do race in public, the teams are seen as they race. No way to stop that!

I'll update this entry with the major events as the show airs here on the East Coast. Refresh this page to get the latest news! As always, the party is in the comments area -- feel free to join in on the fun!

Here are the latest standings in the blog pool from SueGee. Strangely … they're just like last week! An nonPhilimination will do that --

From Big Brother
Rachel & Eliza -- Delee, Nickelpeed
Nicole & Victor -- Jackie, Jennifer, Jenna G
Janelle & Britney -- Donna in FL, David, Monty924

From Survivor
Corinne & Eliza -- Dr_Celine, Caela, Willie J
Chis & Bret -- Paula B., Megan in NC, SueGee

From TAR
Colin & Christie -- Donna NY, Petals
Becca & Floyd -- Merrilee, Judi Sweeney, Glenn Allen
Leo & Jamal -- Kelsey NY, Indiana Jane, Cheryl in NC
Tyler & Korey -- Sharon N, Ed in Ohio

Philiminated
Art & JJ
Rupert & Laura

Ready? Let's GO!

Nine teams remain. Who will be eliminated next?

Teams have to go to Snowtown, Saigon. It's going to be a gathering point as it doesn't open until 6:30am. Once inside, they slide down through the snow going for a clue. 

Bret and Chris have their Speed Bump -- fill up container with snowballs and deliver in Ho Chi Minh City. Teams are heading to the city. Rachel is all irked because Eliza tried to steal their taxi.

Roadblock -- must learn motor bike skills to pass drivers test on one.

The Afghanimals get through the Roadblock first followed by Elissa and Rachel. 

Detour - Irritation or Irrigation. Deliver fish or build irrigation wheel.

Cprinne and Eliza are the only ones remaining at the Roadblock/ Even Chris and Bret did their Speed Bump and passed them on by.

Once again Colin/Christie and Nicole/Victor are leading heading towards the Pit Stop.

Pit Stop order:
1. Colin/Christie -- win a trip to the Dominican Republic
2. Nicole/Victor
3. Chris/Bret
4. Becca/Floyd
5. Tyler/Korey
6. Leo/Jamal
7. Janelle/Britney
8. Rachel/Elissa
9. Corinne/Eliza -- Philiminated, not full of grace and dignity, either.

Due to the Survivor finale next week, The Amazing Race won't return until the 22nd.

Survivor 38: Edge of Extinction - Ep. 13 Blog Party

They seriously need to do something with all of the castaways still hanging out over on Extinction Island. Next week is the season finale and we still have all but two castaways remaining technically in the show. It looks like a jury of thirteen?!?! Oh my! 

I will be live blogging the show's major events as it airs here on the East Coast. Refresh this page to get the latest news! As always, the real party is in the comments area -- please feel free to join in!

Here are the latest blog pool standings from the Luverly Lifeguard Laurie --

Aurora McCreary -- Ed in Ohio, marthalight
Gavin Whitson -- Brenda, KelseyNY
Julie Rosenberg -- Delee, MikesGirl
Lauren O'Connell -- Brian, Krysta Gibbon, Sharon N.
Rick Devens -- Auntie Leigh, Merrilee
Victoria Baamonde -- Indiana Jane, Karen in VS, SueGee

Jury & Extinction
Reem Daly -- David, Terry is a Texan, Sharon C
Chris Underwood -- Glenn Allen, Laurie
Aubry Bracco * -- Cheryl in NC, Margo, Petals
Eric Hafemann -- Bizaro22, Pinky, Shannon
Joe Anglim * -- Carol C, Kismet
Julia Carter -- Donna in FL, Monty924, Jennifer
David Wright * -- Dr_Celine, PDX Granny, Renee Buck
Kelley Wentworth * -- Donna in NY, Jenna G.
Dan DaSilva "Wardog" -- Jackie, Nana in the NW
Ron Clark -- Cherry Pie, Judi Sweeney, Rochelle

Survivor fans ready? 


Rick is trying to convince everyone his idol came from  Extinction. Gavin feels bad about betraying Ron and thinks it will now put everyone's focus on getting Rick out. Rick knows he's a lone wolf and looks for an idol. Meanwhile, although some are believing idols and advantages might just be found on Extinction, Lauren knows otherwise. She thinks she'd like to add a second one to her pocket. But Rick is really going after it. 

Welp, Rick found an idol and we're heading into the Reward challenge. Helicopter trip over the island, fancy meal. Toss a ball, catch on the other side of an obstacle. Dig under a beam, get two balls, then land the balls on a narrow perch.

Gavin wins Reward, chooses Victoria saying she hasn't been on Reward, then Lauren. The others mention that Aurora hasn't been on Reward just like Victoria.

The three on Reward think Rick needs to go next. They want Aurora in there with them sticking together. Victoria tells her she wants Julie out after Rick. Aurora isn't a happy camper.

Extinction -- they get the letters they wrote to themselves before the game. Overly dramatic similar the the drama and tears when the "loved ones visit." 

On camp, since he now has an idol, Rick decides he should torment the others. After all, he knows they all want him out anyway. He's having a ball letting them follow him around and hiding. 

Time for the Immunity Challenge. Race to slide tiles into a target, two handles to transport through obstacle course, solve puzzle -- a six word phrase. 

Not living on the edge tonight is the phrase. Rick Devens wins! He knows the second target after himself is Julie. He wants to try to keep her int the game.

Aurora is calling Rick a thorn in her side. The others are still talking about taking Julie out. Julie knows that the only one who really would work with her is Rick. She tries working on Lauren to possibly target Aurora. Lauren makes the suggestion of Aurora to Gavin. Rick himself wants to create some chaos at tribal and get the Gavin alliance turning on each other.

At Tribal, Jeff already has Julie talking about the four person alliance. Aurora once again says how much they need to get Rick out. As they all talk about getting him out, Rick is grinning like the Cheshire Cat. Rick talks about how Aurora is sitting on the bottom of her alliance. He also says he's going to play his idol to save Julie and pulls the idol out to show them. It's wrapped up, they don't know if it's real or fake. 

The tally -- Rick does NOT play his idol.

Aurora, Julie, Aurora, Aurora, Aurora … she's out! 

Naturally, she grabs the torch and heads to the fast growing city of Extinction. 

Jeff says one will come back from Extinction next week. I guess we'll just have a huge jury.

Survivor 38: Edge of Extinction - Wednesday Technical Problems

We had one anonymous commenter on last night's show post who kept experiencing technical problems while watching the show. He or she kept hearing just the show theme music instead of the dialogue. No one else partaking in the comments had the same issue.

Well, anon … it's not your television. It's not your cable company. And, you're not alone. CBS has made the episode available online, no CBS All Access needed due to the issue. I saw this article today. Since you're anon, I can't give you a personal heads up. I hope you see this!

The Amazing Race 31: Episode 3 Blog Party

Two teams Philiminated in the first two episodes. The first episode Phil said a team WILL be eliminated. The second episode, he said MAY be eliminated. What will he say tonight? Are we due a non-Philimination? 

I realize there are spoilers out on the web regarding the winning team and the two other teams in the finale. I ask that no one post the spoilers in the comments here. If you wish to know, just Google the show name, season number and "spoilers." Then, when you find out -- keep it to yourself!

I will be live-blogging the major events as they air here on the East Coast. Refresh this post to get the latest news. I hope it's not like last week with a gaggle of teams arriving atop of each other. I couldn't keep up with them! The party itself is in the comments area -- feel free to join in!

Here are the latest blog pool standings from Lifeguard SueGee:

From Big Brother
Rachel & Elissa -- Delee, Nickelpeed
Nicole & Victor -- Jackie, Jennifer, Jenna G
Janelle & Britney -- Donna in FL, David, Monty924

From Survivor
Corinne & Eliza -- Dr_Celine, Caela, Willie J
Chris & Bret -- Paula B, Megan in NC, SueGee

From TAR
Colin & Christie -- Donna NY, Petals
Becca & Floyd -- Merrilee, Judi Sweeney, Glenn Allen
Leo & Jamal -- Kelsey NY, Indiana Jane, Cheryl in NC
Tyler & Korey -- Sharon N, Ed in Ohio

Philiminated
Art & JJ
Rupert & Laura

On your marks, get set … let's go!

Nine teams remain. Who will be eliminated next?

They're off to Vietnam next and have to use (and promote) the Travelocity app. 

Once there, they have to pick up a package of herbal remedies from the House of Vietnamese Medicine. 

Team Fun tries to make up and explain the U-Turn to Tyler and Korey. Meanwhile, Rachel and Elissa try to apologize to Team Fun. One apology seems to be accepted, the second one not so much.

BB makes an alliance to not U-Turn each other.

Vietnam is where Floyd got heat stroke during their season. Not so good memories for him!

Teams are racing around a building looking for the doctor.

Detour -- Catch you own prawns or dance with a dance group.

Leo and Jamal try to head the Survivor gals the wrong way, but they're onto them.

Team Fun finishes the dance first and heads to the Roadblock which is memorizing and singing a song in Vietnamese.

Watching the teams try to remove the prawns from the hooks is a hoot. Only Tyler and Korey and the Survivor Gals chose that. Rachel/Elissa are stuck on the dancing detour as other teams (including Victor/Nicole) pass them.

Team Fun hits the Roadblock and it's up to Floyd to take it on. Meanwhile, Elissa wants to quit the dancing. Chris and Bret are just about to start the dance. The Afghanimals and Britney/Janelle are still roaming about lost.

Chris/Bret head off fishing for prawns after one horrific try at dancing. The Survivor Gals beat out Tyler/Korey at prawns. 

Floyd got the Roadblock done on the first shot and they're headed off to the Pit Stop. Janelle/Britney made it through the dancing and now it's the Afghanimals trying to dance.

Eliza shows up as Victor is trying to learn the Roadblock song. She starts screaming so he heads off to do it. Heh. He made it through it despite Eliza.

Pit Stop --
1. Becca and Floyd, Team Fun! Also won a trip to the Bahamas.
2. Nicole/Victor
3. Colin/Christie
4. Tyler/Korey
5. Corinne/Eliza
6. Janelle/Britney
7. Rachel/Elissa
8. Leo/Jamal
9. Chris/Bret -- NON-PHILIMINATION!

All teams still in it. Chris and Bret will have to do a Speed Bump in the next leg.

Survivor 38: Edge of Extinction - Episode 12 Blog Party

Okay, now we're going into the 12th episode with all but two castaways technically still on the show. At present time, there are more sitting over on Extinction than there are playing the game. My personal guess is that only one of the Extinction bunch will be eventually let back into the game. But what will happen with the jury? I can't imagine a jury as large as fifteen voting. Hmm. If I were there, I'd be thinking "I could have spent this time leading the good life on Ponderosa!"

Tonight is the -- in my opinion -- the overly dramatic "loved ones visit" episode. While I sometimes find it interesting to see who arrives for whom, that's it. Sorry, but they've been gone about a month at that point doing a reality television show. Perhaps I'm a bit callous, but I just don't get all the tears and drama. There have even been recent complaints from various castaways about how many make this visit episode a goal like making it to the merge or making it to jury. Of course, I feel the goal should be to make it to the win. Maybe that's just me.

I'll be live-blogging the major events as the show airs here on the East Coast. Refresh the page to get the latest news. The party is, as always, in the comments area -- feel free to join in! A separate post for The Amazing Race is sitting in the wings and will appear a few minutes before the show.

Lifeguard Laure has returned from her Pacific Ocean gig watching the beaches in Hawaii and here are the updated blog pool standings --

Aurora McCreary -- Ed in Ohio, marthalight
Gavin Whitson -- Brenda, KelseyNY
Julie Rosenberg -- Delee, MikesGirl
Lauren O'Connell -- Brian, Krysta Gibbon, Sharon N.
Rick Devens -- Auntie Leigh, Merrilee
Ron Clark -- Cherry Pie, Judi Sweeney, Rochelle
Victoria Baamonde -- Indiana Jane, Karen in VS, SueGee

Jury & Extinction
Reem Daly -- David, Terry is a Texan, Sharon C
Chris Underwood -- Glenn Allen, Laurie
Aubry Bracco * -- Cheryl in NC, Margo, Petals
Eric Hafemann -- Bizaro22, Pinky, Shannon
Joe Anglim * -- Carol C, Kismet
Julia Carter -- Donna in FL, Monty924, Jennifer
David Wright * -- Dr_Celine, PDX Granny, Renee Buck
Kelley Wentworth * -- Donna in NY, Jenna G.
Dan DaSilva "Wardog" -- Jackie, Nana in the NW

Survivor fans ready?

We open up with the aftermath of the Wardog ouster. Rick thinks every time he's trusted Ron, he's been lied to. Ron realizes that and gives him the advantage thinking he will need his trust. Of course, the advantage is no good, but Rick doesn't know that.

Right to the loved ones Reward Challenge time. I simply cannot report on all the tears and drama. Can you hear my eyes rolling?

Race with a bucket, get water from ocean, toss water to loved one's bucket, loved one fills container to raise flag will win. Love and a picnic is the reward. 

Ron and his husband Lloyd win Reward. Who will come with them? He picks Julie. Then he picks Gavin (who said he was married two days before he had to leave for the show). I actually think that was a thoughtful decision, but not all the others feel the same.

GAH! Gavin -- "Whenever I left …" NO! It's NOT "whenever." It's WHEN. I really cringe every time I hear that.

The ones not on the picnic are talking Rick for the next target. They think he's out there looking for an idol. He catches Victoria and Aurora going through his bag. Rick decides he'll use Aurora going through his bag as a weapon to target her. While looking, he finds a clue saying that the idol is in the trees above their camp. He finds it and thinks in addition to what Ron gave him, he's golden.

The Immunity Challenge is a repeat of the perched between two walls, last one up wins.

Rick out first. Ron out. Victoria out. Julie out. Oh my gosh, Ron carries her because she can't walk. Aurora out. Lauren and Gavin left, Lauren drops.

GAVIN WINS IMMUNITY!

Ron is thrilled because Rick went out first and he thinks all Rick has is that fake advantage. Little does he know …!

Back at camp, Rick is getting the silent treatment. He thinks Ron might be the only one who will work with him, but doesn't trust him. Ron is convincing Rick that Aurora's the target. He thinks if everyone else votes for Rick and Rick happens to have an idol, it will be Aurora going home with Rick's vote. The girls are thinking it might be wise to split the vote and vote for Ron to go. 

Aurora wants to give Gavin her extra vote advantage (last time it can be played). She figures if it goes to a tiebreaker and her name is in there, Gavin is the only real safe one. Gavin is in a quandary as Ron let him go on Reward yet he doesn't want to alienate Lauren and Aurora.

Off to Tribal Council. The million jury members troop in. Rick brings up Aurora going through his bag. Lots of talk about lots of plans. Jeff asks Ron Probsting questions about his choice for Reward partners. Jeff likens this season to a pinball machine with people in place of the balls bouncing about. Aurora admits she doesn't want to be sitting next to Rick in the final three. Jeff is really stirring the pot this Tribal.

The tally -- Rick plays the menu Ron gave him and asks for immunity, finds out it was expired. So, he lights into Ron and Julie and plays his idol.

Rick, Rick, Rick, Rick, Aurora, Ron, Ron, Ron …

RON is voted out! Aurora is giddy. Of course, he heads off to Extinction. And, of course, they're all still on Eviction. When is that herd going to thin?

The Amazing Race 31 - Episode 2 Blog Party

That's quite the start we got off to last week! I remain surprised that Rupert and Laura squeaked through to the mat. Will they be able to do it again this week? I was even more surprised a previous TAR team was Philiminated. Was I surprised that the leading teams to the mat were previous TAR teams? Nope. Unfortunately, Art and JJ, although good people, were the weakest returning team. Now the BB and Survivor folks just have the tougher ones against them.

I'll be live blogging the main events and constantly updating this entry as the show airs here on the East Coast. Refresh the page to get the latest happenings! As always, the real party is in the comments -- feel free to join in on the fun!

Lifeguard SueGee was kind enough to open the gate for stragglers and re-shuffle the blog pool to reassign the first boot folks. So, here's the latest blog pool update going into tonight --

From Big Brother:
Rachel & Elissa - Delee, Nickelpeed
Nicole & Victor - Jackie, Jennifer, Jenna G (obviously the J Crew!)
Janelle & Britney - Donna in FL, David, Monty924

From Survivor:
Rupert & Laura - Brian, JonMD1267
Corinne & Eliza - Dr_Celine, Caela, Willie J
Chris & Bret - Paula B, Megan in NC, SueGee

From TAR:
Colin & Christie - Donna NY, Petals
Becca & Floyd - Merrilee, Judi Sweeney, Glenn Allen
Leo & Jamal - Kelsey NY, Indiana Jane, Cheryl in NC
Tyler & Korey - Sharon N, Ed in Ohio

Philiminated:
Art & JJ

Where will we be racing to tonight? Let's go!

They're heading to Laos next. Colin tells us he's grown since last on the show 15 years ago. We'll be the judge of that.

Rachel/Elissa have a failed attempt to work with Team Fun (Becca/Floyd). The Survivor teams drift to each other and are all on the same flight.

The teams have to "give back" to the Monks. But there is a waiting period. Corinne/Eliza have a bit of run-in with the Afghanimals and find out they're not Team Fun.

Teams make their way on foot to the next clue and encounter a Double U-Turn. Rachel thinks they really need to U-Turn someone while the Nicole/Victor don't see the need. Then we go to commercial.

GAH! She U-Turns Team Fun because they wouldn't work with her. 

Detour has them memorizing the Lao alphabet or prepare barbeque. 

Team Fun U-Turned Tyler and Korey. They did it mainly on the suggestion of the Afghanimals who didn't want the blood on their hands.

The alphabet is very tonal which is hard and the BBQ has them getting the ingredients which might be harder than cooking them!

Upon completion of the Detour, they're off to Elephant River. Heh. Elissa has to tell Rachel to calm down. Rupert finished the alphabet and claimed, "We did something!" He was proud. Team Fun finished both Detours and are ahead of many of the teams who had only one to do.

Roadblock - The Afghanimals make it first. They must use Lao commands to make an elephant cross a river, then find a musician on the other side. Nicole and Victor are second. Nicole is thrilled to be on the elephant!

They head to the Pit Stop by boat and Phil said MAY be eliminated. It's Victor/Nicole and the Afghanimals in the lead.

Pit Stop order
1. Leo/Jamal - won $2500 each
2. Nicole/Victor

Rupert is having elephant trouble despite he claims that's his soul animal

Wow the teams coming in one after another.

I can't keep up with it.

Both teams with U-Turns are safe.

Last to arrive are Rupert/Laura -- Philiminated

I'm surprised they didn't go last week. 

Survivor 38: Edge of Extinction - Episode 11 Blog Party

So, now we have all returning castaways sitting over there on Extinction Island. I guess that technically gives at least one of them a shot at getting back in the game for the win. To be honest, I'm a bit surprised they weren't targeted and picked off one by one right from the get-go. I'm never sure why reality shows think it's a good thing to have a few returning players join in with a new cast. They never make it to the end. I'm not keen on "all star" versions of the shows, either. But, at least, that creates a more even playing field.

I'll be live blogging the major events as they air here on the East Coast. Refresh this page to get the latest news! Y'all know the party is in the comments below, right? Feel free to join in! Up here it ain't no party, ain't no disco, ain't no foolin' around. Okay, maybe a little fooling around …

A post for The Amazing Race is sitting in the wings ready to pop up before that show airs. If you're watching both shows, head on over there at the end of this one!

Here's the latest update on the blog pool (they need to get some of these folks outta there!) --

Aurora McCreary -- Ed in Ohio, marthalight
Dan DaSilva "Wardog" -- Jackie, Nana in the NW
Gavin Whitson -- Brenda, KelseyNY
Julie Rosenberg -- Delee, MikesGirl
Lauren O'Connell -- Brian, Krysta Gibbon, Sharon N.
Rick Devins -- Auntie Leigh, Merrilee 
Ron Clark -- Cherry Pie, Judi Sweeney, Rochelle
Victoria Baamonde -- Indiana Jane, Karen in VS, SueGee

Jury & Extinction
Reem Daly -- David, Terry is a Texan, Sharon C
Chris Underwood -- Glenn Allen, Laurie
Aubry Bracco * -- Cheryl in NC, Margo, Petals
Eric Hafemann -- Bizarro22, Pinky, Shannon
Joe Anglim * -- Carol C, Kismet
Julia Carter -- Donna in FL, Monty924, Jennifer
David Wright * -- Dr_Celine, PDX Granny, Renee Buck
Kelley Wentworth * -- Donna in NY, Jenna G.

Survivor fans ready?

We start as Kelley arrives at Extinction. Of course, Lauren is missing her back at camp. She's saying Ron and Wardog flipped. She's uncertain who she can work with now. Wardog's way of working things has alienated many -- Gavin is angry and wants him targeted. Ron told Julie about the extra vote in order to get back in her good graces. It looks like it just might work.

Rick think he, Ron and Wardog need each other in the game. They think they're each other's biggest threat and biggest hope to stay in the game. They think the others will go for them any chance they get. it seems like Aurora is their main target … at least for now.

To a REWARD challenge. They have to swim, dive, go under a platform, retrieve three rings and first team to get rings on target wins. It's a trip away to a feast and showers and stuff.

Lauren, Wardog, Rick, Julie  (Blue) versus Ron, Gavin, Victoria and Aurora (Yellow) in a schoolyard pick. 

Blue wins it no thanks to another poor challenge performance by Wardog.

We have a trip to Extinction. Kelley is mad at herself for not trusting her gut and using the idol. Reem is thrilled that Kelley finally got voted out. Kelley apologizes to her but Reem is still ticked. After all, Kelley was instrumental in getting her voted out. Time for introspection time for Kelley. Um, okay. 

Back at camp, the ones who lost the reward have some bonding time. They're talking taking out Rick. Gavin wants to get closer to Aurora. Ron accused Aurora of being the "Rice Nazi." He tells us she gets on his last nerve.

But the Reward people are having a wonderful time. They're spreading mud bath on each other, talk about bonding. They got to play in a hot spring. Rick doesn't think Lauren or Julie are serious players. They're wrong. However, Julie and Lauren are bonding a bit. But Lauren thinks Rick is the most dangerous while Julie wants to take out Wardog.

Immunity Challenge time! Race over obstacle carrying buoy, go through tunnel with buoy, then buoy through netting, keys, unlock locks, puzzle.

Rick wins Immunity again! His only real competition was Aurora. Gavin is sure Wardog will be going tonight. I'm not as sure.

Lots of scuttlebutt about Wardog going home. But it's also leaning towards Aurora. Aurora is certainly the better physical competitor. Lauren is torn -- she thinks she needs to do what's best for her own game. Aurora is contemplating using her extra vote advantage. She might need it.

Off to Tribal Council! Jeff asks Wardog about the atmosphere back at camp. He says that all are talking and Gavin claims Wardog talks at him, not to him, so now they don't talk. Ohh … Wardog threw Ron under the bus with Kelley ouster and Ron said it was true. They're already working the jury. 

The tally -- 
Aurora, Wardog, Aurora, Wardog, Wardog, Wardog, Wardog …

So, my pool pick Wardog bites the Extinction. Yes, he heads to Extinction … of course. He's a Wardog.

Next week is the "loved ones" episode. Never my favorite, but they don't ask me.

The Amazing Race 31 -- Season Premiere Blog Party

While I generally prefer "normal new people" on TAR, I think this season should be quite entertaining. Since this blog covers all three shows involved in the cast, it's all familiar faces. There are a few I'd personally not see again on the show :::cough... Rachel, Colin, Rupert …. cough::: -- overall, I like the teams chosen. I just think two of them have had more than needed of their fifteen minutes of fame and one is insufferable. Everyone (in their bios) think the former racers will have the edge. I guess we'll see!

I will be live blogging the major events as they go down from here on the East Coast. Refresh this page to get the latest news! As always, the party is down in the comments area. Please join in on the fun!

Lifeguard SueGee has made the random selections for the pool. Who's your team?

From Big Brother:
Rachel & Elissa -- Delee, Nickelpeed
Nicole & Victor -- Jackie, Jennfer
Janelle & Britney -- Donna in FL, David
From Survivor:
Rupert & Laura -- Brian, JonMD1267
Corinne & Eliza -- Dr_Celine, Caela
Chris & Bret -- Paula B, Megan in NC
From TAR:
Art & JJ -- SueGee, Willie J
Colin & Christie -- Donna NY, Petals
Becca & Floyd -- Merrilee, Judi Sweeney
Leo & Jamal -- Kelsey NY, Indiana Jane
Tyler & Korey -- Sharon N, Ed in Ohio 

Are we ready? 1, 2, 3 … let's GO!

They're starting out in Los Angeles. We get the introductions from Phil. 

It looks like this "reality clash" is going to take a few minutes. 

They have to dig into a HUGE octopus sand sculpture for their clue to their first destination.

They're heading to Japan - Rachel, Rupert teams got it first. Colin and Christie have two children now -- 11 and 6 years old. We'll see how much he's matured.

All the teams are on the same flight to Tokyo where they'll have to take a bus to the destination for the next clue. Only limited numbers of clues are in either of the two locations. They're rather slowly finding the clues. 

They are directed to the Roadblock in a building. Who wants a sweet new pair of shoes? Inspired by a crazy game show. They must find one pair of shoes, biting into it to see if it's chocolate. Some are still looking for the clues to get there. Rachel is running behind. So is Rupert. As for the shoes, they must eat the chocolate ones once they find them. 

Leo and Jamal are in the lead followed by Janelle and Britney. 

Who wants to climb Mount Fuji? Roadblock, climb 21 stories. It's a slippery slope. Meanwhile, Victor is having extreme issues with the chocolate sandals. Rupert and Laura are still roaming around lost in Tokyo. 

Colin and Christie are next in line at the climbing behind the Afghanimals. The cousins are headed to the Pit Stop. Ohh … Phil said WILL be eliminated, not MAY be eliminated. Corinne and Eliza just got the clue to the shoes. Art and JJ are lost and just got the clue after two teams already hit the welcome mat. Rupert and Laura are at the shoe Roadblock with Corinne/Eliza and actually found the chocolate shoes first. Corinne./Eliza are thinking they're the last team. They don't know that Art and JJ JUST got the clue to the shoes.

Pit Stop order:
1. Leo and Jamal, also won a seven-day cruise.
2. Colin and Christie 
3. Tyler and Korey
4. Rachel and Elissa
5. Becca and Floyd
6. Victor and Nicole
7. Bret and Chris
8. Janelle and Britney
9. Corinne and Eliza
Rupert and Laura are still roaming about lost. JJ/Art are still struggling with the slope.

JJ tells Art that they should take a four-hour penalty because Art can't make the slope. Rupert/Laura arrive at Mt. Fuji. They tell Rupert/Laura they're taking the four hour penalty. Rupert is the one going for the slope. They don't think he'll be able to do it either. And … he is making it! He got it!

10. Rupert and Laura
11. Art and JJ -- Philiminated.

I had predicted a Rupert first ouster. I was close.

Survivor 38: Edge of Extinction Ep. 10 Blog Party

We're heading into the tenth episode and only two castaways have left the show -- and, that's because they actually gave up and quit. Sure, many have been voted out, yet they still remain. It's kind of like the Hotel California: you can check out, but never leave! That said, the promos have tonight being two Tribal Councils. So, two more will leave. Or stay. Or whatever.

I'll be live blogging the major events of the show as it airs here on the East Coast. Refresh this page to get the latest news! As always, the real party is in the comments area -- feel free to join in on the fun! 

Remember: immediately after Survivor airs, we have the season premiere of The Amazing Race 31 with teams from Survivor, Big Brother and TAR. A separate post will cover that show. Just refresh the blog after this show and join in for another blog party there!

Here are the latest blog pool standings from the Lovely Lifeguard Laurie:

Aurora McCreary - Ed in Ohio, marthalight
Dan DaSilva "Wardog" - Jackie, Nana in the NW
David Wright * - Dr_Celine, PDX Granny, Renee Buck
Gavin Whitson - Brenda, KelseyNY
Julie Rosenberg - Delee, MikesGirl
Kelley Wentworth * - Donna in NY, Jenna G.
Lauren O'Connell - Brian, Krysta Gibbon, Sharon N.
Rick Devens - Auntie Leigh, Merrilee
Ron Clark - Cherry Pie, Judi Sweeney, Rochelle
Victoria Baamonde - Indiana Jane, Karen in VS, SueGee

Jury & Extinction
Reem Daly - David, Terry is a Texan, Sharon C
Chris Underwood - Glenn Allen, Laurie
Aubry Bracco * - Cheryl in NC, Margo, Petals
Eric Hafemann - Bizaro22, Pinky, Shannon
Joe Anglim * - Carol C, Kismet
Julia Carter - Donna in FL, Monty924, Jennifer

Grab your adult beverages and let's get started!

They open the show after Tribal. Although the idol wasn't needed, David thanked Rick for the idol share doohickey. They all seemed a bit stunned by the Tribal. It seems they think Aurora was the downfall of Julia. Wardog is already scheming with a group of six. He thinks they'll go after Aurora next. She knows it and is worried. She won't give up, but …!

Right to the Immunity Challenge. Bars resting on shoulders, must squat, too high flag will pop, too low urn will fall. Jeff is bribing people to not compete with pizza and either beer or root beer. Victoria, Kelley, Ron and Lauren choose to chow down.

Wardog, Gavin and Julie are out. Rick Devens out. It's only David and Aurora left. Aurora tells him she cannot drop because she's the target. Of course, David is wary that he's the target. Whoops! David out.

AURORA WINS IMMUNITY! 

Sure enough, David's name is brought up as a target since they can't go after Aurora. David thinks they might be able to get Victoria and possibly even Aurora on his side and go against Wardog. He knows Wardog is after him. It seems he might actually be making headway on it. He keeps calling the Lesu 3 the "power trio." Wardog's style (dictating votes) has rubbed some the wrong way. Plus, I'll add in -- he's no good in challenges. I say that even though he's my pool guy. Ron is unsure. He doesn't really trust David.

Already heading to the first Tribal of the show. Jeff asks if there was an emotional drain after the last Tribal. Rick thinks he and David are in trouble and they need help. Julie thinks she and Ron are on the bottom of their alliances. Rick thinks they need to make a bold move. Wardog says that he, Kelley and Lauren are super strong. Ron says Wardog is very aggressive and vocal. Sure enough, Wardog speaks up and might sink himself.

Time to vote …

The tally -- no one uses an idol --
David, Wardog, David, Wardog, David, David, David, David …

Rats. David is gone. He promises to them that he will "crawl his way back in." Of course, he heads to Extinction.

On Extinction, Joe hands out seven bottles with seven clues to an advantage. David, the one still most in game mode, heads off looking as do the others. David does find it. He must send an advantage to someone else currently in the game.

Immediately to another Immunity Challenge. Balance a paddle on a stand, roll a ball down into a dimple. First to get five balls in dimples. Rick brings forth the advantage and announces it was from David -- he only has to get four balls in.

RICK DEVENS WINS IMMUNITY! (Thanks, David.)

Wardog and others are talking the easy vote would be to target Aurora. Hmm … but now he's telling us he thinks it's time for the last returnee to be voted off -- he's ready to turn on his ally, Kelley. He thinks he's in stealth mode. He's going around to all to convince them. Ron thinks it should be Aurora and that Julie would think the same. Kelley thinks she's probably in a good position, but tells us she's glad she has a hidden idol. Aurora gives Ron her advantage of the extra vote. He's actually pondering using it to vote her out! Oy! 

Tribal Council time once again. Time for Jeff's Probsting questions. Aurora says this is the first time her name has come up when she didn't have Immunity. They talk about blindside. Kelley says every time isn't the right decision. Is it time to worry about who to sit with at the end? Ron says too aggressive can be a threat. The camera goes to Wardog. Heh. It's time to vote.

The tally --
No idols played.

Aurora, Kelley, Aurora, Aurora, Aurora, Kelley, Kelley, Kelley, Kelley.

"Wow, guys, a lot of lying going on." Kelley should have played her idol. She's headed to Extinction with a torch.

The Amazing Race 31 -- Returning Teams

The Amazing Race will make its 31st season debut following Survivor tomorrow night -- 9pm ET/PT. I've already posted about the Big Brother and Survivor teams on the show. Now it's time for the returning TAR teams. Tomorrow night I'll be live blogging the show as it airs here on the East Coast. Yes, there will be a party in the comments.



Sigh. Of the returning teams, this is the one I least want to endure once again. Colin and Christie, although they did well on their season (TAR5), taking second place. I find him insufferable, aggressive and ruthless. I really can't believe they're still "life partners" this many years later. He's 38, a tech entrepreneur while she's 40 and … get this … a Sex, Love and Relationship Coach. Oh my.



Now, I liked this best friends team of Art and JJ. Art is a federal agent while JJ is a border agent. Well, maybe vice versa. They were on TAR20, didn't bicker with each other and ended up coming in second place. They're older now at the age of 49. I'm not sure how they'll hold up against some of the younger teams. But, they should be entertaining to watch!






Then there's Tyler and Korey, another team of best friends. The video above was their audition video for their season -- TAR28. Since they were on more recently, they're still on the young side. Tyler is 30 while Korey is 34. Neither works a tradition job. Tyler is a video blogger and Korey is a podcaster. (Wish I had those choices when I was young!) They came in third on their season. 



Leo and Jamal, cousins, are the only returning team that's been on the show two other seasons. They did back to back seasons 23 and 24 (All-Stars). They came in 4th place in both seasons. They were quite young then and now are only 31 (Leo) and 30 (Jamal). Leo owns a bar while Jamal is a customer financial services manager. They were entertaining and definitely have a strong team bond. I guess if we have to have a three-peater, they're okay. 





From TAR29, we have Team Fun -- Becca and Floyd. They were fun on their season despite a rather heartbreaking end for them. They came in 5th. They're also still on the young side. She's 28 and he's 23. (No wonder he made some drastic mistakes -- he was a child!) They're good friends and, overall, worked very well together. She's very athletic and is actually a rock climbing instructor. He's a client services manager and will try his hardest. I look forward to their return.