Dancing with the Stars...

[RobiLee]

I know I sound like a broken record, but Derek Hough is incredible. His choreography is so far above and beyond everyone else's. I really wish Ricki wouldn't pucker her mouth like she does, but other than that . . . she is fantastic to watch. I wasn't overly excited with any of the other dances, except for the Team Paso routine. THAT was awesome.

Gotta say this . . . Maks and Hope are quite possibly one of the worst pairings I've ever seen on the show. I just feel bad for her. She is not my favorite, anyway, but she just looks miserable with Maks.

I 100% agree with every statement you just posted.

[finn's mom]

I 100% agree with every statement you just posted.

Hope and Maks seriously seem to bring out the worst in each other. Did you watch the rehearsal package for their group routine? Maks walked out in frustration and Derek immediately went to Hope's side to help her. He's just a class act, all around. I know he has his breaking point, and I've seen him get testy just like everyone else, but overall, he truly seems to just want to help people be their best.

[Grace]

How cool is this

J.R. Martinez Named Rose Parade Grand Marshal

Pasadena - The grand marshal for Pasadena's 123rd Tournament of Roses is a certain crowd pleaser.

Leading the Jan. 2 procession of floats will be J.R. Martinez, the "Dancing With the Stars" contestant, "All My Children" daytime soap opera star and Iraq War veteran seriously burned when his Humvee hit a land mine.

He will also toss the coin before kickoff of the 98th Rose Bowl Game in honor of all wounded military personnel.

The Tournament of Roses Association announcement Tuesday says Martinez is a perfect fit for the "Just Imagine ..." parade theme.

Martinez says he's grateful for the opportunity to share his message of hope and possibility.

Tournament President Rick Jackson says Martinez is an inspiration because of his courage and dedication to helping all Americans facing challenges.

[RobiLee]

How cool is this

Very cool! I love JR. His spirit and personality are amazing. To me he is like a bright shiny star and anyone around him his going to glow. I mean look at Karina. I've always thought she was a beautiful dancer, but her personality seemed a little hard to me. This year with JR she seems a little softer and more fun.

[Scooter's Mom]

Very cool! I love JR. His spirit and personality are amazing. To me he is like a bright shiny star and anyone around him his going to glow. I mean look at Karina. I've always thought she was a beautiful dancer, but her personality seemed a little hard to me. This year with JR she seems a little softer and more fun.

She does seem a lot softer!

[Scooter's Mom]

So sad about the results this week.

[RobiLee]

I was disappointed with the results and sad to see that couple go. Really thought it should have been someone else, but I don't vote so I guess I can't complain...lol

[RobiLee]

Hope and Maks seriously seem to bring out the worst in each other. Did you watch the rehearsal package for their group routine? Maks walked out in frustration and Derek immediately went to Hope's side to help her. He's just a class act, all around. I know he has his breaking point, and I've seen him get testy just like everyone else, but overall, he truly seems to just want to help people be their best.

OMG...don't they, though?? Their relationship seems so volatile(?not sure if that is the right word). I actually thought Maks was a tad bit abusive in that last package. Definitley not a good pairing. I'm not sure but I think I had read somewhere that he actually pushed for her to be his partner. Not sure about that. LOVED the way Derek stepped in there. I do sometimes wonder how much the editing plays in all of this though. I mean, every show wants to have a bad guy. I've never disliked Maks. Always enjoyed watching him dance and he sure as heck isn't hard to look at and I've even giggled at his cocky attitude, but this year his arrogance is a little over the top for me.