We were watching MasterChef last night, and at one point Christina Tosi, one of the judges, started choking and coughing after tasting one contestant’s scrambled eggs, which she declared were too peppery. I have no doubt she was heavy handed with the pepper grinder, but Christina carried on the charade so long that I said, “Enough with the histrionics already!” At which point Tara and Audrey both looked at me and snickered.
“What?” I asked.
They exchanged a knowing glance between themselves, mumbled something along the lines of “this is what we were talking about earlier” but refused to say more.
“Are you questioning my use of histrionics?” I asked, pressing the issue. And then I hit PAUSE on the DVR, typed the word into Google, and read aloud the definition.
“See?!” I said. “It really is the perfect word for this situation!” I think most of you would agree had you seen Christina’s wildly exaggerated coughing fit. It wasn’t until later…much later, in fact…that I realized how my dramatic, defensive response could be considered a bit histrionic, as well.
Oh, the irony.
I still don’t know why they were laughing at me, either.
We’ve been watching America’s Got Talent this season for the first time in years, and enjoying it quite a bit. We were inspired by last month’s Tape Face show, a gift from Tracy; we enjoyed the comedian so much, we decided to check out AGT again in the hope of discovering some other great acts. This season has not disappointed! It’s hard to pick a favorite, given that there are so many talented people this time around. I’m pretty sure one of the many gifted singers is going to win, though. That’s usually the case.
Anyway, Audrey asked why we ever stopped watching in the first place, as the kids and I used to really like the show. The truth is, I don’t know! Maybe it was a general reality television burnout, or perhaps I was bummed that Recycled Percussion didn’t win Season 4, or maybe I got too busy courting Tara. For whatever reason, the show dropped off my radar for a few years. But it’s back now.
This has actually been a trend as of late. In the past year, I have started watching a bunch of shows I’d given up for dead years earlier. First up was Survivor last fall, followed by The Amazing Race in the spring. Maybe I’m just on a general nostalgia trip as of late.
Come to think of it, this whole idea of moving back to Rapid City is yet another example of me rediscovering the past. Hmm. How interesting.
Everything old is new again, I guess.
Mark Petruska 
I have really tried to discipline myself to stop these got talent shows. There is so much amazing talent displayed by unnoticed regular people. Before I know it 3 hours have passed.
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Tell me about it, Carl. We’re going into Portland today, and the people watching is sure to be a smorgasbord for the eyes! I’d give reality the edge over reality TV.
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Mark, I learned something from you on this post, I don’t think I’ve ever heard the word “histrionic” or would even know what it meant. So thanks for the definition.
As you know, I don’t watch TV or have cable, so I’ve never seen America’s Got Talent, but know of it. The only reality show I’ve ever watched (and only because I’ve seen it on a DVD series) was Project Runway.
Hope you’re having a super weekend, my friend!
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Tara’s a big fan of Project Runway, though admittedly that’s usually my cue to tune out or go read a book. 🙂
Have an excellent weekend, Ron! Hope it isn’t too hot and humid out your way.
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It seems your use of histrionics was correct, possibly both in conversation and your actions, but no harm no foul at least you were correct.
We also enjoy AGT but have basically stopped watching the singing competitions, I like the variety of acts on AGT and have been surprised at how well Simon has done as a judge.
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I agree! It would be nice if somebody other than a singer won for a change. I’d love to see a really talented magician (there have been many over the years) get his or her due.
I’ve always liked Simon as a judge. I think he improves any competition show he is on.
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Well, I’m trying to catch up on Big Brother after my vacation, so AGT has taken a back burner! And then there’s 90 Day Fiance and Southern Charm. You’re talking to the Reality Queen here.
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Ha – I can tell! I haven’t seen Big Brother since Season 1. But if they ever bring back Joe Millionaire, count me in.
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I have never heard the term histrionics til now. Your use of it seems legit to me.
I’m out of loop in vocab as well as your life – possibly moving to Rapid City?! Well, it’d be easier to visit you and Tara then, but there’d probably be less geoduck involved.
Slowly re-entering the blogosphere. Have patience with me. lol
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It’s nice to see you back, Jess! Yes, Rapid City is on our radar, because housing prices in Portland/Vancouver have skyrocketed and we are being priced out of the market. I’ve always loved Rapid, and the cost of living is a lot lower. We’re taking a road trip out there in October so Tara can check it out.
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