“The Goodbye Gossip Girl”

Time to toss your caps and gowns girls and gals, it’s graduation day for our favorite Gossip Girl socialites.

For the first time this season those at the focus of the gossip fight back. After being interrupted right in the middle of their big day the class of 2009 can’t help but have their feelings hurt as cruel labels are handed out to each who matter, cause those with new names to feel abused and those with no names to feel ignored. You really can’t win, can you?

Serena is especially tired of all the drama that’s come her way due to Gossip Girls’ scheming. She launches a witch hunt to find out exactly who is responsible for the brutal blasts. First finding support among her tightest friends; Dan, Chuck, Nate and Blair, she then manages to anger the whole class as Gossip Girl fights back. Promising to not only keep her identity a secret, but to also follow the crew right into college. Heaven help us! I was hoping the buck would stop here.

Those staying behind may receive slightly more peace. Jenny is crowned Queen Bee, already determined to lead a peaceful pack. Even better, true love has found Lily and Poppa Humphrey during their new engagement. Hope their love can make it through another shocking discovery, because I think they’re about to meet the son they once left, found and lost again.

So, will next year bring peaceful bliss to the new couple Chuck and Blair with Georgina ready to show up at her door? Could Dan’s brother end up his roommate or best friend first? Will Serena finally find her Dad? Will this show survive another season? As long as the tweens are alive,  GG will thrive.

XOXO ~Dena

And it all comes down to this.

Tonight, CBS aired their 18 live season finale of Survivor. After spending 39 days and nights out in the wild of Brazil James “JT” Thomas Jr. outwitted, outlast and of course, outplayed all 15 members of his competition.

Perhaps, making his biggest betrayal of the season in order to persevere in strategy J.T. and his strongest alliance member sent home Taj, their third musketeer. This left them with Erinn, who, let’s face it, stood no chance of winning more than one of two jury votes if she were to make it to the final two.

After winning immunity, yet again, the game was completely in J.T.’s hands as he had to decide between his best friend on the show Stephen whom he’d promised to bring to the end and Erinn, the girl who he could most definitely win again.

After bringing along Stephen and pleading out his case to the seven jury members it turns out that J.T. was able to be both loyal and a vote-sweeping winner. Winning every single one of the jury members votes this good ol’ country boy made it to the very end and walked away, not only a winner, but with several new friendships that may just last a life time. Not many people who have won Survivor can say that.

It’s true, I never did want J.T. to win, but obviously I missed something about this survivor that his cast members never forgot. He must have truly swept them off their feet. To that, I tip my hat. Well done good ol’ boy!

With only five contestants left, tonight’s Survivor was a real nail-biter.

On the one hand you’ve got Coach. He’s arrogant, fake, a drama king, and yet, a huge fan of the good ol’ boys club. The club in which J.T. holds a V.I.P. membership. With J.T. always holding all the cards, and Stephen previously willing to go along with whatever his country buddy suggested, all hope looked lost for our other contestant on the chopping board, Erinn.

Truth be told Erinn hasn’t looked like much of a contender from day one. Physically, she’s no star athlete. Mentally, she’s a follower. She sort of reminds me of last season’s Susan to be honest. The whole season Susie merely floated along practically forgotten about. Yet, when it came to the season finale, she came in as the winner’s biggest threat. Who knew? That’s how I feel about Erinn. She’s still here and moving on to live another day… who knew?

Thank God Coach is gone though. It supremely irritated me to see him so easily pull the wool over J.T. and Stephen’s eyes when he all of a sudden tried to avoid exile island by playing up his weaknesses. Then, to play the martyr on top of it, you’ve got to be kidding me! I’ll give him this, he knew how to play the game. He knew exactly how to suck up to J.T. and be the “brave warrior” role model. I just thank God that Stephen’s smarter than I once gave him credit for. Perhaps he caught on to the fact that J.T. just might throw him under the bus in order to save Coach for the final two in the end. And why not? Just as Jeff said during their final challenge, this is the challenge they’d be waiting for “young buck” against “old warrior.”

My vote for the season winner: Stephen. He earned some major brownie points in my book tonight.

” Valley Girls” (S02E24)

You’ve got to love a good flash back Gossip Girl style.

Brittany Snow guest starred as a young Lillian who, once expelled from boarding school, runs away from home with mom to crash at her music mogul Dad’s pad. Too bad 80’s star Andrew McCarthy won’t have her. It seems there’s still a little bit of brat stuck in this pack.

Though I can’t remember one present day episode where Lilian’s sister graces us with an appearance, I really can’t wait for that day. She was everything a cool older sister is meant to be and more. First by standing up for what she believes in against a youthful Van derWoodsen, and then again by bailing lil sis Lillian out of jail.

Hmm, bailing someone out of jail, sound familiar? Perhaps that’s what inspired grandma to show up at Serena’s defense when grown-up Lillian had her thrown in a cell to save socialite face. In any case, Serena’s just as determined as her mother was at that age. She doesn’t allow either grandma or mom to come to her rescue. Instead she breaks out for the only important life event of high school still left to complete: Prom.

Proudly crowned prom King and Queen after Chuck stuffed the ballot box, Nate and Blair achieved everything she once dreamed of and more. And then, suddenly, he wasn’t worth much more. Officially offing it with Nate, Blair decided that she was ready for bigger and better things, apparently bigger than staying with her high school boyfriend.  That’s a pretty lame reason if you ask me. I wouldn’t be surprised if Chuck is more the reason then she’d like to let on. We shall see…

“What a Difference a Day Makes”

It was beautiful, it was sad, it was breathtaking, it was moving, but most of all, the 100th episode of Grey’s Anatomy was everything it was hyped up to be and more.

On the day of Meredith and Derek’s wedding, you’d expect perfection. The skies would open up into beautiful sunlight, people would hum, heck even birds would sing, but that just wouldn’t be life now would it? No, life is so much more than that. If there’s one thing Shonda Rhimes, the creator, and her team of writers know, it’s how to make you appreciate life, in all it’s ugly and beautiful complexities.

Instead on the big day, Hunt, George, Lexi, Torres and Cristina and forced into a trauma involving a van full of kids just about to graduate college. When their lives should be beginning, the team watches as six lives end. It’s heartbreaking but inspiring to see the impact these kids lives instantly have on each team member.

Meredith rides a high after accomplishing her first solo surgery. The chief looks on like a proud but anxious Poppa but in the end her surgery, and day are a success. Derek, however, is forced into a much darker day. When Izzie reports that Denny, her hallucination, is back, Bailey, Derek and Izzie rally to find out what’s causing his sudden appearance despite a clean MRI. That’s when the worst news of all season comes…

Izzie has a new inoperable tumor. She’s losing her hair, her strength, even the ability to control her own brain, and she’s most likely going to die. So instead of receiving a wedding present from her dedicated wedding planner, Meredith gives one. Karev and her dearest friends turn what could have been one of the worst days of her life, into what could end up being one of the best by giving her the wedding she’s always dreamed of.

In next week’s special two-hour season finale, it’s time to find out which cast members we’ll be saying good bye too. Regardless of who stays or leaves, it’ll be the complexity of  heartbreak mixed with happiness; because really, that’s the only way that Grey’s knows how to exist.

This is the episode of Survivor that always makes me cry a little. No matter how predictable, expected and drama filled the “family reunion” episode can get, I still feel the need to shed a tear when I see those poor, dirty, starving people meet up with the family members that look at them with such pride and excitement.Would I put myself on an island in such conditions to win a million dollars? Probably not the first game I’d choose to win cash, but I do respect those that have chosen this route. They’re crazy, no doubt, but they still deserve some respect.

Having seen her husband come and go, with a lil pep talk in between, it was a little sad to see Debbie go tonight. Oh, don’t get me wrong, it was definitely her time, but still, she’s come so far. She’s definitely managed to hold on much longer then I ever gave her credit for. She’s just too conniving. If anything, she left because she was just too good at the game. While the boys are managing to hold on regardless of their brains and brawn, Debbie felt the first sacrifice of being a threat. Her gift of the gab just wasn’t enough of a bargaining chip to keep her around any longer.

I bet Coach was pretty annoyed tonight at J.T. and Stephen’s betrayal, yet again. However, as soon as they fill him in on all that Debbie was doing to sabotage Coach’s existence I guarantee he acts as if she was never going to make it and would be happy to help her pack. He’s such a tool. (Is it mean for me to point out that his visitor wasn’t even family or friends but rather an assistant coach who helps him stretch?) I sort of feel bad for the guy when I’m not being annoyed by him.

In any case, from here on out, I’m rooting for Stephen unless somebody else does something mind blowing to impress me. There’s no way Erinn will win. The only reason why she’s even still here is because she’s not much of a threat, but they’ve almost put her on the chopping block before. Now, it’s only a matter of time. I’m happy to see J.T. go because I don’t feed into his “good ol’ boy” act. Yes, he’s probably an amazing person, but he’s just as conniving and ruthless as the rest. His personality is keeping him afloat, but in part, it’s a sham because he too is playing this game to the fullest and chopping others down at the knees. Taj is sweet and I’d be perfectly content if she won, but part of me looked at that big ol’ house that her family was sitting in and realizes that if she missed out on more money in order to give it to someone who might need it more, well, that’d be okay. As for Coach… are you kidding me? I hope he’s next.

(S02E23) “The Wrath of Con”

Georgina’s back and better than ever. It didn’t take much for this holy roller go remember her roots. With a little designer help from Blair, scamming from Poppi and a whole lot of anger from within, Georgina’s about to do the dirty work for the whole team in order to seek revenge for what was stolen. I guarantee no church camp has ever gone to such lengths to get back collection bin cash.

With Georgina back in action, Gabrielle guilty as sin, and Poppi on the run, you’d think someone else would be behind bars. Poor S, Momma L is only trying to do what’s best. Besides, shame on you for thinking you’d earned those prized family jewels. As the saying goes, like mother like daughter.

Does the same hold true for boys? Are the Humphrey guys destined to be broke and woman-less? Sure, Dan’s got the brains for Yale, but will he ever  have the tuition? With Lillian out of the picture my magic eight ball says “don’t count on it.”

As for all of the drama we’ve continuously seen issued by the Blair, Nate and Chuck love triangle, I couldn’t be more over it. Obviously Blair and Chuck are meant for each other. Misery does love company. Too bad they’re disastrous romantics who will never allow themselves to be happy. Lucky Nate, he gets the leftovers.  Victory, how sweet it is.

(S02E22) “Yours, Mine and Ours”

According to E! Online Private Practice! Online will most likely be returning for a third season. Even after this pathetic attempt at a second run, the boost the show receives from post- Grey’s Anatomy fans has kept it alive. Switch the time and let’s just see how it survives.

Speaking of surviving, in tonight’s finale, Violet was left with her life dangling on a cliffhanger ending. Her one chance of survival seemingly left when Cooper didn’t walk into the life-ending drama going on in his living room but instead turned his sights towards the life-changing drama Charlotte was facing. Meanwhile, poor Violet is about to have her baby literally cut out of her by a psycho patient that believes the baby really belongs to her.

As for also possible partings that next season may see, Naomi has decided to take over Charlotte’s job and leave Sam and their practice behind for good. Seeing as her new digs will be just one floor up I’m sure that doesn’t mean she’s gone for good. God knows they love to mix the love dramas between the two floors.

Dell is another character that just may have seen his curtain call. After committing, perhaps the biggest faux pas to date at Oceanside Wellness when he accidentally switched patients embryos, the word “fire” is of course being thrown around. However, since Addison can’t keep her cool long enough to deliver her “almost-lover’s” wife’s baby, Dell’s act of kindness in taking over may just help him since Addison will most definitely owe him big time.

And did you just note how soap opera-esque that last line sounded? Such is Addison’s life apparently. Ever since Noah showed up, they’ve turned into the TV world’s worst couple and the viewers most unrealistic characters. I can hardly stand how wish-washy and pathetic the two act due to their uncontrollable lust. Save it for One Life to Live. I don’t watch daytime TV for a reason.

(S05E19) “No Good at Saying Sorry (One More Chance)”

The scene is now set for  a much anticipated 100th episode.

Of course there will be a wedding. Now that we know Izzy’s cancer is not going away without a serious fight, one which she may not win, Meredith and Derek have decided to move up their wedding so that she can see it come to fruition. From the previews it should be stunning. I think it would actually be an excellent time for Izzy to part from the show. Can you imagine the heartache? What better send off for such a major character than right after she witnesses love at it’s best; something we know she clearly holds so dear. Then again, maybe I’m less of a romantic and more of a twisted soul. We shall see.

As far as love goes, I see Arizona and Torres really making a run of it. After both Sloan and Cristina suggest Torres just lie to her family in order to reform bonds, Arizona gives her the support she needs should she choose to go that route. Torres is better then that though, and it’s what we all love her for. This couple couldn’t be more kind hearted and perfect for each other if they tried.

My only hope in the love department is that Hunt and Cristina get back on the right foot. He’s trying, he’s just a bit misguided. Cristina’s smart though, I honestly don’t think she’ll be ignorant to his immense efforts for long. Maybe one day they’ll have the type of love that Lexi and Sloan have. Perhaps unconventional, but sweet and fresh all the same. Steamy may be older, but that doesn’t make him any less of a man. He even went out to meet her newly reinvented sober dad.

Next week there are certain key truths with which we can count on. There will be drama. There will be beauty. And there will definitely be love. But what will make the show remarkable enough to truly stand out as something special. Well that, ladies and gentleman, I can’t wait to find out.

I can’t honestly say that I’m surprised Sierra was voted off of Survivor tonight. The writing’s been on the wall for sometime for this drama stirring contender. I cannot wait until she has her ultimate moment to shine in the last episode. Can you imagine how off she’ll go on the top two? It really wouldn’t matter who they are, she’ll find something to say I’m sure.

For all the grief they gave Sierra for disloyalty, I believe that she’s a lot less sneaky than some players. How the majority of the team sees J.T. as someone they can trust with their life is beyond me. He himself seemed surprised that he was still able to play trustworthiness as his ace card. I guess being a good guy around camp pays off. Too bad being a good girl doesn’t have the same benefits. Debbie’s about to be given the boot. And I highly doubt that her only alliance, Coach, will have any qualms about showing her the door.

Speaking of Coach, you have no idea how disappointed I was when he used his ninja mind tricks to win individual immunity. Then, to add on even more pain, he went on bragging about how awesome it was and why he was just destined to win. Get over yourself warrior. If the players know what’s good for them, they’ll be voting you out next.

As for my prediction as to who will win in the end, well that would definitely be Stephen right now. He’s stepped up his game and he’s becoming more of a leader. He’s the only player with an immunity idol tucked away. Additionally, not one person has made him their enemy. Though I must wonder, who voted him out tonight? And what exactly did that name card say? Hopefully it went along these lines “couldn’t decide, knew you’d be an easy wasted vote.”