Watching Rachael Ray

Only two new shows this week - Monday and Tuesday. The original recaps of W/T/F are linked as available!

Monday
Dancing with the Stars Scoop - New

Want to know who’s got the edge this season on Dancing with the Stars? Host Samantha Harris is breaking it all down! Then, meet a woman who says she can communicate with animals, and see what happens when we put her to the test. Plus, Evette’s incredible (and budget-friendly!) makeover for a family that wants their kitchen to look just like Rachael’s.

Tuesday
April Fool’s Surprises - New

It’s April Fool’s Day so get ready for an hour of the unexpected! First up, Jarod Miller is back with jaw-dropping animals … and wait until you see his idea of a practical joke! Next, a hilarious star drops in for a round of celebrity “Stump the Rach,” and for dinner there’s no foolin’ that it’s the perfect spring meal.

Wednesday
The Rock

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is showing his softer side when he sits down to talk about becoming a father. Then, do you love designer jeans but don’t want to spend the money? Gretta is showing you how to get the season’s hottest looks for less. Plus, a takeout style dinner that’ll be done quicker than the delivery guy could make it over!

Thursday
30 Rock’s Back!

The hit show returns next week, but we have Tina Fey right now! She’s sharing stories from the show, reminiscing about her SNL days, and bragging about her 2-year-old’s artistic masterpieces! Then, is your struggle to look young getting old? Our beauty pro has five easy makeup tricks that can take years off your face.

Friday
Nicollette Sheridan

The sexy Desperate Housewives star has the scoop on her co-stars and her life at home with fiancé Michael Bolton. Plus, Lara Spencer has the latest celebrity Dish, and Rachael has a classic German meal with a smokey new twist!

Today we start with Rachael crawling in the back window of her set after a wave, and bumping her head. She laughs and says she didn’t think she had that much flexibility left, and then moves into talking about how easily someone can break into your house - even if you think you’ve taken enough precautions.

Former Jewel thief Walter Shaw is on the show to talk about home safety which he now teaches after 20 years of being on the wrong side of the efforts. A reader, Erica, allowed them to come in and set up cameras, and she swore there was no way someone could break into the master bedroom while she was downstairs with her family for dinner - 15 people were right under the room in question. The video, of course, shows that Shaw used Erica’s ladder to climb through a window and raid her bedroom, making off with jewelry, passports and social security cards. He made it inside and out in just 8 minutes, and called it “a piece of cake” and that there was “nothing to it”.

Erica was shocked, though relieved it wasn’t a real robbery, and glad she could help teach her family the lesson about safety. Through a very long segment where Rachael kept things light, there were some good tips to help protecting your family:

* Keep the window alarms on at all times - even when you are home.
* Choose clever hiding places for valuables. Five key areas are usually targeted - between the mattresses, the night stand, the bathroom, the vanity, the closet - so pick other places.
* Wire the floor of your bedroom closet with silent alarms
* Place heat sensors outside of the house to trigger lights.
* Consider smaller dogs as watch dogs - they’re yappers and hard to catch. They’re the most annoying.
* Lock the shed and the garage, and make sure your ladder is chained to stop a burgler from using it.
*The most important tip is to keep your mouth shut - don’t tell people of your new, expensive, possessions. There’s no reason to tell your stylist that your husband just bought you a diamond necklace. Don’t advertise.

You can hit the giveaway button down there, and win Walter’s book, where he talks about all this and more about his experiences. Even as light as the conversation was kept, remember that being burglarized is no joke, and very invasive as well as potentially dangerous.

Next up, Skeet Uprich is in the house, talking about being the town sheriff in Jericho (which we all know has recently been cancelled, though hadn’t been at time of taping, apparently.). They talk about the cultlike following of the show, and Skeet says it’s pretty humbling and great to be a part of something like that. It’s the first time in 26 years that a show has been brought back from the dead.

Skeet talks about being a dad to twins, and says it’s the best of life. He calls them an old married couple, very alike in ways, different in others. They have each other’s backs, but are the first to turn each other in. He loves the experience of being a dad, and he’s started taking cooking classes with his kids. They end the segment by doing some skeet shooting on a WII where they both did pretty awful, but Rachael came out on top by a score of 17-2.

To be honest, this is one of the shortest, and disappointing, TV star interviews ever - what’s with that?!

Next up, two moms who document their crusade to improve school lunches in a film called Two Angry Moms. Independent filmmaker Amy Kalafa teamed up with Susan Rubin to document how schools need to improve their lunches and how some have taken steps to offer healthier choices for kids. They’re even offering free teleclass, School Food 101. For more tips on what to be aware of and some tips - check out the Better School Food website.

So, what’s for dinner? Pork Chops in Tangy Fire-Roasted Tomato Sauce with Bacon-Pea Polenta.

PS - sorry it’s been so long and slow in the recaps lately - between show repeats, and the business that comes with hamster watching over at Big Brother Craze, I’ve been swamped! I’m doing my best though!

A mixture of new and repeat shows this week - I’ll link to my original recaps in the title for the repeats where available.

Monday
A Burglar’s Tricks Revealed - New

Meet a man who says he can rob you and get away clean in only eight minutes while you’re home eating dinner! Don’t miss a shocking hidden-camera investigation and get tips from a reformed burglar about how to protect your family. Plus, Skeet Ulrich is one tough sheriff on the hit show Jericho, but is he a big softie when it comes to his twins?

Tuesday
Christie Brinkley’s Beauty Secrets - Repeat

She’s been America’s favorite cover girl for decades, so what’s Christie Brinkley’s secret for staying sexy after 50? The supermodel and super-mom reveals her head-to-toe beauty secrets, and then heads to the kitchen to help Rachael whip up a recipe from her latest cookbook!

Wednesday
Survival Guide for Moms - New

The kids, the housework, the job … do all these demands have you on the brink of a breakdown? We have the four simple steps you need to get your life back! Plus, a new bottom-of-the-jar recipe, Evette’s space-saving ideas, and an incredible story about pets rescued from a raging fire.

Thursday
Donald Trump - Repeat

He’s unstoppable in the boardroom, but is Donald Trump “unstumpable”? See if Rachael can Stump the Trump! Then, the “Human Lab” has three smokers who are trying new products to kick the habit for good, and Rachael’s cooking up a power burger that Trumps all others.

Friday
Rashida Jones - New

Actress Rashida Jones is talking about her new show Unhitched, her famous parents, and revealing what she never leaves home without! Then, check out the shopping cart that tells you how much your groceries cost, get an update from a guy who went around the world for free, and Lara’s on a top-secret mission in Panama to find the latest 007 Dish on the new James Bond movie.

There’s mostly repeats this week - so hit the Title Link to go to my original recaps!

Monday
Rach’s “Biggest” Mystery Taster

The elevator is coming down with a superstar, and he’s literally our biggest Mystery Taster ever! Plus, Dancing with the Stars winners Helio and Julianne are dancing into Rachael’s studio … and even taking her for a spin!

Tuesday
Teri Hatcher

Sexy TV star Teri Hatcher is our celebrity guest, and then we’re having breakfast, lunch and dinner with the stars of the smash hit High School Musical 2. Then, can the food you eat really boost your sex drive? You won’t believe what happens when we put three viewers to the test!

Wednesday
Michael Bublé’s Dream Date

Is your body image wrecking your sex life? Get tips for feeling sexy in your own skin and find out the one thing that could heat up your love life forever! Next, Michael Bublé drops in to perform his hit single, and he’s whipping up the perfect date dish with Rachael.

Thursday
Human Lab: Makeup

Kaley Cuoco from The Big Bang Theory takes you inside her fridge and shares memories of her TV dad, the late John Ritter. Then, our buddy Gretta is putting all the makeup claims you hear about to the ultimate test. Is there really such a thing as “no-smear” mascara and do those lipsticks that are supposed to last all day long really work? Find out which products survive our “Human Lab.”

Friday
Steve Carell

The hilarious actor stops by to talk about his movie, Dan in Real Life, and shares why it’s so difficult to discipline his precocious 6-year-old daughter. Plus, Lara Spencer’s sharing the latest Hollywood buzz, and you’ll need to open a can of beer for Rach’s chicken dinner!

So - Rachael looked good the other day in the black? Today… not so much. That green shirt is draped COMPLETELY wrong for her figure. Sigh. One step forward, two steps back… Anyway, we start off in the kitchen to make a snack for today’s Mystery Taster - The Ultimate Ham & Cheese Sandwich.

The Mystery Taster comes down the elevator, and the crowd goes WILD - it’s a big one! A TV Legend with 5 Golden Globes, 5 Emmys, and a career that keeps all of us laughing. Here’s the questions:

At the prom - coursage or boutineer? Didn’t go to the prom.
Shopping - Rodeo drive or 5th Ave? Rodeo Drive
Comedy team when a kid - Abbot and Costello, Jerry Lewis or Cheech and Chong? Abbot and Costello
Extra activities in high school - choir, drama club, athletic department, debate team? All of them.

The Mystery taster retreats until later, and we move on to Green ideas to Clean. Evette is on hand with some eco-friendly cleaning tips, starting off with a viewer who wants better ways to clean her stovetop. Rachael admits that her husband does the cleaning, so she’ll learn something to. Baked on stove stains - use a paste of baking soda and water to rub into the stain. Baking soda provides the abrasiveness to get the stuck on stuff off - add vinegar and it cuts the grease too.

Cleaning silver without silver cleaner - fill large pan with hot water, line the bottom with aluminum foil. Add a squirt of dish soap and loads of salt. Soak the tarnished silver making sure the foil touches the tarnished area. Voila, shiny silver.

Cleaning the LCD-TV: Use a soft dry cotton cloth to remove fingerprints nd smudges — you can add a tiny bit if isopropyl alcohol on a damp cloth. Wipe the outside with used dryer sheets to dust after cleaning and help prevent future dust.

Tips not shown on the show: Microwaves - dampen a kitchen towel in water, set inside the microwave and run for 30 seconds - use the damp towel to just wipe the crusty food away. Revitalize CDs by dipping the end of a dishtowel in water, dab a bit of toothpaste on the tip. Rub the playing surface with the toothpaste in circles to work out the scratches, clean with damp towel and you’re good to go. Make your own furniture wipes by mixing equal parts water and lemon oil in a bowl and dip squares f cheesecloth into the mixture. Wring them out so they’re only slightly damp and store in air tight container - voila, eco-friendly wipes!

Rachael heads back to the kitchen to finish the snack for the Mystery Taster, who comes back down the elevator once again.

Back to the Prom - a dress, or a tux if you had gone? A dress. in drag. JUST kidding! A Dress.
Which EC activity in high school helped the most? Drama and Choir
Did you win any awards? Yes. Which ones? Emmys, golden globes,
When you won the award,, who’d you thank? That’s giving it away! My cast members Vicki, Harvey, Tim….

“No it is not, shut up, is it Carol Burnett?!” Of course it is, Rachael, and she pops around the corner to give her a hug and lead her to the table. Carol tells her she’s the cutest thing, all bubbly. And Rachael is, of course, a huge fan, and thanks her for all the years of laughter. The Carol Burnett Show was on for 11 years, and asks why there isn’t stuff like that today. Carol says it was like a broadway show on tv, and today the cost is just too much when you can gets Reality Shows for $1.98!

Bob Mackey designed every costume on the show - 50 of them a week, and they talk about the gut-busting spoof of Gone with the Wind, where Carol wore a gown made from the curtain. She declares Bob Mackey genius. She says she still goes to dinner with her castmates often, and when you do you have to know the Heimlich because of the laughter. She is also in with the new crop of comedians, working with Steve Carell and Jim Carrey in Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who. She’s thrilled to be part of the film, and she took her grandkids to the premiere last week, and the 11 year old was like “Oh grandma!” so now she’s cool.

She is also helping promote the arts to a new generation with a project at the Pasadena Playhouse, that is a tribute to her daughter, Carrie Hamilton. They’ve built it into a theater that works with kids at risk and encourages them to write, direct and act. An architect friend, Frank Gehry, is redesigning the theatre for free as a tribute to Carrie.

So - what’s for dinner? St. Patrick’s Day Reuben Hash which is shared by Stacey Antine - an Incredible Person (Sponsored by Eggs) who’s helping kids to eat healthier by getting to the root of the problem - showing them how to grow and cook their own food.

Wow - Rachael looks GOOD today! Love the outfit - she actually got it right today. So we go to viewers homes today, for “Theme rooms”. There’s a Fishing room, a penguin room, a Betty Boop bathroom, and a Wizard of Oz room too. But the clear winner is Adam’s KISS room. He says it represents who he is, he’s been in love with the band since he was four. Stacie, his wife, calls it ridiculous. The dude has EVERYTHING KISS, right down to chapstick and calogne. Stacie, being the good wife she is, allowed him to have ONE room in the house for all his KISS. They choose the Office because it was smile. Adam says his wife does what she needs to do in there and goes away really fast. She’d like to share the space, of course.

Kristan Cunningham is on the scene to do a makeover and she says it was her absolute favorite makeovers of all. Stacie and Adam say that it’d be functional with a place to read and relax and Adam says “Just without getting rid of all my KISS stuff!” Adam grabs some stuff to take with him, and scoots out so that KC can get to it. With IKEA in her pocket (…not literally, of course) she gets the office under control, complete with a closet shrine that plays KISS as the closet opens. Four days later and it’s time for the big Reveal.

Adam admits that he was nervous, especially when KC touched the first thing and it broke - a Gene Simmons action figure. Rachael says “you broke the mans DOLL?” and is quickly corrected “ACTION FIGURE!” - geeks of the world unite! Adam and Stacie are both thrilled with the finished result, of course! It’s a good mix of function, with a lot of the KISS memorabilia visible there - easily hideable with sliding doors. He of course LOVES the closet Shrine, with flame lights and auto playing music when the doors open. He says opening those doors was like entering a portal into KISS world. Both are thrilled, and Stacy says it’s fun now, she likes paying bills in there now.

Rachael tells Adam they feel bad that they broke a piece of his memorabilia, so have a replacement, and out comes Gene Simmons with a KISS Lamp, and Adam is starstruck as Gene gives Rachael a spin and hugs KC. He then trades glasses with Adam, and the tongue flicking happens, and Adam is ALL SMILES. Gene says it’s a wonderful thing when a Women sees that a man has passion for her, and his thing, and supports him. She knows he’ll never stand between him and her shoes! Nice.

After a break, Gene joins Rachael at the Kitchen Table, and he pulls over RC (the warmupguy) to show off his KISS tattoo. Adam says it’s not every day he gets to meet his hero. Gene tells him he’s jealous about the love he has from his wife, he’ll always been number two to her. KISS is going on tour again, their 35th year, and Helsinki sold out in 7 minutes. He says he’s doing t because his mother wants a bigger house and he loves his mother. He promises that when you go to a KISS show, even if you don’t like the music you’ll walk out saying it’s the best show ever.

They talk about Family Jewels that’s coming back. He says he never has a clue what’s going to happen on the show, and he points out that Rachael doesn’t use cue cards, and adlibs - it’s the same for him. So they show a clip of the show with him and his mother, and Gene is clearly touched by it. He takes a lie detector test in an upcoming show - to prove that he’s been with thousands of women. He’s been with his partner for 25 years, and they have two kids. Everyone is curious as to what he’s done before settling down, and tonight we’ll find out. He does say that he turns the tables on Shannon because he wants tot know about her too. Rachael calls us who don’t watch the show losers. Whatev’ Rach. Not everyone’s a KISS fan. (grin) But if you are, hit up the behind the scenes parenting advice from the legend himself.

Then it’s a what’s for dinner throw down from the winner of the burger contest in the Every Day with Rachael Ray magazine. Jerk Pork Cheseburgers with Green Apple Slaw and Rachael’s South Beach Burger with Mango Slaw.

PS - Both Wednesday and Thursday’s shows were repeats. You can catch my original recaps of them here and here.

We start off in the kitchen today as Rachael talks about March Madness coming up, and Top Chef which goes to Chicago this season. On hand, of course, is Top Chef judge, Tom Colicchio, who Rachael says is actually very nice, even if he’s mean at times on the show. He rebuts with he’s not mean - just firm and fair. He says he considers his mom his top chef, because she made sure dinner was on the table every night and missing wasn’t an option. He started in the kitchen at an nearly age, as well.

They talk about Panini Bars, and some tips for making the sandwiches - a great way to get the whole family involved. Some tips - don’t worry about having a fancy panini machine, use a cast iron skillet, and use a smaller pan and weight to weigh it down. Make sure you don’t overstuff them, because if it starts to steam and you want paninis to be crispy. They get busy making some Panini’s of course, and Tom gives another tip - put the sauces and such in the center, with the meat on the outside, so that the bread doesn’t get soggy. He adds to the Buffalo Chicken craze by making a Buffalo Chicken Panini. Be sure to check out the Joy of Eating for more recipes.

And a Turkey Ruben is apparently called a Rachel. Who knew?

They talk about Chicago, and the buildings, the food and the music, and he loves that he got to spend some time there. He is still surprised that the show has become so big, but he loves that it’s a double threat - the reality side, and the food. He doesn’t get to interact with the contestants at all on the reality side, so enjoys watching the show to catch the rest of what happened. It’s Panini’s for everyone! Pick up the Top Chef Cookbook too!

Next up- celebrating your divorce! Belisa Vranich says it’s a trend that’s more and more mainstream. No pity parties here, just a celebration of beginning a new chapter in their life. Molly, after the end of her 8 year marriage, decided to have a very tongue-in-cheek items that are common at such parties: Black balloons to pop, Just Divorced banners, and a divorce cake with the frosted groom being tossed over the side. Vranich stresses that it brings closure - don’t forget to mourn the end of the marriage, but be sure to celebrate the start of your new life as well.

Rachael surprises Molly with a trip to Cancun for her and 3 friends - and you can enter for the chance to win one as well. Here’s more info too, on Divorce Cakes, Divorce Decorations, The Ex Knife holder, and even a Wedding Ring Coffin, that Jill talks about behind the scenes here.

We move on to Lipstick Jungle, a recurring theme the past couple weeks. Today it’s Linsday Price, who she introduces as the girl on the choo-choo train on the Toys R us commercials back in the day! She brings a sample of her favorite lip gloss, Beaute Lip Gloss, created by her friend, and worn by Lindsey often.

Lindsey says she’s a good cook, but very precise as it’s always a big event - place cards, fresh flowers, dinner party, etc. Her mom, of course, is the opposite and doesn’t use measuring cups, and is very low maintenance. Mom tells her “watch Rachael Ray!” instead of thinking too much. She loves New York City, and is happy to be eating her way through the city - like take-out at 4am.

Lindsey has jokes that her acting has come full circle, she grew up watching Pretty in Pink, and being in love with Andrew McCarthy, and now she’s making out with him. She says he sparkles, and no one plays a millionaire like him. She adores Brooke Sheilds too, and the three of them have a chemistry that builds a great friendship and it makes it easy to go to work.

Then it’s back to the kitchen for dinner: Pasta Alla Norma and Orange & Arugula Salad.

Monday
Tom Colicchio

Top Chef Tom Colicchio is showing you how to host your own “panini party” and talking about the show’s brand new season. Then, just as weddings are celebrated with a ceremony, now women are throwing divorce parties to mark a new chapter in their lives. Find out about the trend, and see why Lipstick Jungle’s Lindsay Price is plotting a little revenge on her co-stars.

Tuesday
Gene Simmons Surprises a Superfan

One ultimate KISS fan … one weary wife … one wild makeover from Kristan Cunningham and a huge surprise from Gene Simmons himself! Plus, the self-proclaimed burger queen (that’s Rachael, obviously) debuts her newest burger recipe.

Wednesday
Kelsey Grammer

We knew him as Frasier for 20 years, but now Kelsey Grammer has a new personality in primetime! See what happens when Rachael puts him in the hot seat to see how well he knows his co-star Patricia Heaton. Then, what does your wardrobe say about you? Colby Donaldson gets the brutal truth straight from the guys.

Thursday
Jarod’s Wild Animals

It’s a “wild” show today! First up, one of the stars of the wildly popular Grey’s Anatomy comes by with behind-the-scenes stories, and then wild animal guy Jarod Miller is tormenting Rach with some deadly creatures! What’s for dinner? Rach whips up spinach and artichoke hummus with “wild catch-atori.”

Friday
Mystery Taster

Our brand new Mystery Taster is a five-time Golden Globe and six-time Emmy winner … tune in to see who’s coming by! Then, from stained silverware to dirty appliances, we’re giving you the five everyday cleaning tips you need to know along with a St. Patty’s day feast for morning, noon or night!

First off -I love the cut of that shirt on Rachael! Not too fond of the lace, but the shape of it is really nice. Anyway, we start off talking about Oprah and her new show, The Big Give, and how it’s better then reality shows that are the worst of the worst, but this one challenges you to be as good as you can be. The host of the show, Nate Berkus is there to talk a bit about being picked as host of a show that’s so big and beautiful - he says it’s like an out of body experience. He’d done makeovers on the Oprah’s show before, and he wasn’t sure he wanted to be on TV more - but he did it because it’s an amazing show.

It’s a complete emotional roller coaster, but more of an inspiration to think of your life different. The Big Give is basically a search for the next American Hero - they’re everyday people, not angels. One woman was there because she’d made a lot of bad choices, and figured it was time for botox and a boob job, or to turn her life around. That’s why she’s on the show.

Rachael issued a challenge of her own in tribute to the show. She challenged 10 PTA moms to make a difference with one week and 40 gallons of paint and supplies at their disposal. The ladies clean up the local playground that was in bad shape, as well as spent time to help a local little girl and her mother. Victoria is 10 years old and has cerebral palsy and had recently spent 5 weeks in the hospital after a surgery. They painted and decorated her room, and raised $1500 to go toward the medical bills with a bake sale. The giving continues with donations of a chair lift, free groceries for a year, and $20,000 n gift cards from Sears and Kmart.

One of the judges on The Big Give is Jamie Oliver, the Naked Chef. He joins Rachael and talks a little about being on the show, but he’s really there to show off the clip of them at the South Beach Food & Wine Festival, where they had a healthy kids cook-off. Justin Willman was the MC and a team of mom and dad judges tasted the offerings whipped up by Team Ray - with Sydney and Ramal - and Team Oliver -with Jenna and Justin

After 20ish minutes, they served up Monte Cristo Sandwich with Fruite Compote, against Flapjacks with Sernifredo Ice Cream Sundae. The judges declared it a tie, with all the kids getting gift certificates to Willams Somoma. Check out the Yum-o organization for more kid friendly meals!

And what’s for dinner? Talapia Sammies.

We start off the show with cool stuff off the bat, heading over to the set of Lipstick Jungle, where the ladies show us some of their favorite things, from candles, to instant bronzer, to ‘skin food‘ for extra dry skin, before Kim Raver joins Rachael at the kitchen table for a chat, Votivo candles in hand.

She laughs because they need all those little favorite things because they work 16 hours a day - she even nurses between takes as she’s got a newborn as well as a five year old. The morning makeup trailer is like a daycare with all the kids!

They talk about her challenges of shooting the show, Lipstick Jungle, the last few months of her pregnancy, and how much she appreciates the producers of the show allowing her to work while pregnant and with kids. It mirrors what the show itself is about, women who have families and juggle them with work.

She asks how it is making out on the job, and she laughs because no one told Rob Buckley that she was 6 months pregnant when he got the roll - but he was amazing, though it was very awkward at times, as they had to choreograph it to have his muscular torso cover her pregnant belly from view. They joke about the New York vs. LA, and she jokes about Jack Bower being hot, and how funny he is too. She’ll always be an East Coaster at heart, and how her son is street savy even at 5, and loves to give directions. Other differences are the mellow coffee makers, as she’s shaking going JUST GIMME THE COFFEE! It was a cute interview - Kim is very funny, and animated! Check out Lipstick Jungle on NBC.

Next up, Breast Implants for women after 40, a new trend. Rachael has a couple of viewers - one Lisa who ‘loves the twins’ she recently acquired, going from an A cup to a D. She said when she had kids, and they blew up, then disappeared was unfair, so she got the surgery. She did it for herself, not for her husband or anyone else, and that’s the way to go. She encourages her children not to even think of it until after they have kids, because that changes your body so much. Her husband supported her in whatever decision she made. Her bottom line? If you want too - go for it!

The other Lisa is considering having the surgery done, and facing the worries about recovery time, and if it’s even right to have 18 year old breasts on a 40 year old body. Dr. Lisa (another Lisa!) Cassileth is a surgeon and says she sees more older women in their 40s getting breast augmentation done. She considers it more restorative at that age, than augmentation - trying to reverse what pregnancy did to the body. There’s a different opinion, of course, offered by the president of National Research Center for Women and Families, saying there are other ways to feel good and better about themselves and their lives.

Lisa Russo disagrees, saying she had plenty of confidence before the surgery, she was just dissatisfied, and fixed t. Zuckerman reminds everyone that there are some risks, and it’s also costly and usually uncovered by insurance. Bottom line, gather information, and do what’s right for you.

Sean Aiken (related to Clay? No?) has spent the last 47 weeks working a different job every single week. At 26 years old, just after school, he was struggling with the what to do after school, what path to take. So he decided to travel the country and test out 52 jobs in 52 weeks - and every penny he makes he donates to charity. What will week 53 bring? A book about his experience, including all that he’s learned along the journey and the advices he’s picked up along the way. Here’s a preview of some of his advice for college grads!

What’s for dinner? Spanish Shrimp & Chorizo with Sweet Pea Couscous.

Today’s show was a repeat - and you can catch my original write up here! It originally aired on October 29th, 2007, right after Drew had taken over The Price is Right. And that Philly Cheesesteak Pizza STILL looks good! I seriously need to try that one!

So, let’s see what’s going on elsewhere around the blogaverse concerning Rachael Ray?

Anthony Bourdain has been nothing but consistant in calling out Rachael Ray for everything from her lack of culinary background, to reports that she’s nothing more then a bitch to fans and a hack at best in the kitchen. He’s never shied away giving his opinion on ANY cook/chef - because that’s what he does. However, he did mention that at the South Beach Wine and Food Festival, that he had a surprising run in with Rachael Ray herself.

He prefaces the statement with the fact that his event was a huge success, but he felt diminished and drained by it all. Perhaps he’s not angry anymore. He admits that it shakes you to the core when people you’ve been insulting for years turn out to be decent - not just in general, but to YOU in particular.

Say’s Bourdain:

In the last three, up-is-down and down-is-up days Rocco Di Spirito bailed me out, Emeril Lagasse generously fed me, Jamie Oliver talked child rearing with me for hours. Cat Cora was civil and … drum roll please … Rachael Ray was unfailingly polite. I fear I might even have hurt her feelings. They might as well have worked me over with tire irons. I feel an utter beast this morning.

Way to go, Rachael! you’ve unsettled the beast!

In other news, this week Rachael announced her new Name Brand stock in a box. They don’t even sell her EVOO in my neck of the woods (The trials and tribulations of living in the Frozen (…or, currently, melting…) North!) so I doubt I’ll be able to find this and try it anytime soon. You can, however, buy it online at Gourmet Food Express. Her Stock-in-a-box joins her other signature items, All Italian EVOO, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, and Balsamic Drizzle. The price for the Stock in a Box - Beef or Chicken, is just $4.95, comparable with the brands I get up here in Alaska.

For those who want more Donny Osmond even after yesterday’s fun interview - check this out! He stayed behind the scenes and answered some exclusive viewer questions!

Enjoy!

What did Rachael do to get arrested? By Jesse L. Martin, even? Easy, she pretended to be taking money for seat upgrades out in the audience line. Jesse brought her down the elevator in handcuffs, and let her lose at the kitchen table as he joked “I got to arrest Rachael Ray!” and she countered with “I got to be arrested by Jesse Martin!”

She says Jesse is back, and she didn’t even have to bribe him with buffalo chicken wings this time! He says he’s horrible in the kitchen, with not one good thing he can put together. Rachael promises to talk him through a meal the next time he entertains. She says “Call me any time!” And he’s all alright - but don’t you forget and fret when I call! Deal struck!

He used to work in the same building of the show in Guiding Light. It was his first gig, and he had a small part as the first boyfriend and got mustard on the face. He laughs and says in soap operas, you never know when it’s really over? But the mustard clued him in, his stint was done.

He loves working with the cast of Law and Order, and is in his nineth year on the show. He still remembers the first day, though - totally nervous working with Merkerson and Orbach. He says he was scared to death, he pulled out a file, and his hands were visibly shaking. Sam Waterston thought it was cute that he was nervous, as everyone went “awww!”

Rachael is a self proclaimed Law and Order Junkie, and asks him about this song that he has. Apparently, the theme song has words! “Law and order is on… law and order is aaalllllwayyyys on….. always on!” Jesse is a VERY funny guy - the interview was a definite treat!

Next up, it’s a woman who’s determined to help herself! Rachael Ray is amazed at how huge the self-help section is. There’s help for things that Rachael didn’t even know it’s problems. The spent a year, sort of, with Beth, who decided she needed a plan. She put herself on a year long self help journey. One program a month, with proven experts. From getting healthy, to better parenting and relationships. She says that Men are from Mars, Women are from venus - well, it’s full of clichés. She says it would have been ironic if she ended the year as she started, but she’s definitely changed.

She had a great moth following the advice of Suze Orman, and you can read about her journey in her book, Helping me Help Myself. The one thing she really liked was The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, which is about setting goals in life.

The hardest thing for her was spending a year thinking about herself so much. She always had put her husband and kids and keeping house in front of herself, so she felt self-absorbed. But she learned that helping yourself, helps you help others. You just end up being a happier person. Of course, the funniest thing about the interview to me? Beth talks as fast, if not faster then Rachael herself! Ha!

There was one thing Beth wanted that she didn’t get too -learning how to cook, and Rachael’s on hand to help her make the perfect pork chop - Maple-Glazed with Scallioin Smashed Potatoes & Escarole.

What’s for dinner? Why something made with Rachael’s new Stock in a Box the Flavor that Rocks - Popeye Risotto with Beefy Balsamic Mushrooms.

It’s right to the action today, and Rachael should so not be wearing THAT particular style of wrap dress, as it doesn’t really show her cute little figure well. Sigh. I swear, they listened to me about the hair - why can’t they do so about the clothing?!

They’re off to surprise a staff member who’s singing Puppy Love (Badly!) at Kareoke night, and gets surprised as Donny Osmond joins in and sings it for her! Rachael joins them on stage to dance with Donny, but refuses to sing. He eventually coaxes a single note out of her, but that’s it! After the clip, he joins her at the Kitchen Table for a sitdown talk.

He teases her about not singing, and the audience chimes in to sing with him. Rachael says she only sings in the car - she has no notes! Donny, of course, starts off the rest of the interview by saying how awesome the show is, a class act with food! He says it was even better when he was startled with Robin, the makeup woman, opening her sweater - to reveal her vintage Donny and Marie t-shirt. Awww.

They talk about WOAH moments, and he talks about when Stevie Wonder was on the show. He spent a week coming up with his favorite Stevie songs, and then Marie came up and said NO! It’s all wrong! He stood up to her…. that time! He sung what he wanted him too. According to Marie, he joked, women rule! And now that he’s married for so long… she was right! He married his childhood sweetheart, and he beams about his new grandbaby - just born the day before filming - his first granddaughter after 5 sons and 1 grandson! That’s gonna be one spoiled little girl!

Donny and Marie are going to get back together for a show in Vegas. It’s already sold out 8 months in advance. She’ll even throw some dance moves on the show. “She’ll say ‘I’m a better dancer, because I was on Dancing with the Stars!’ and I’ll just say back ‘you didn’t win!’”

Rachael is completely twitterpated, and it’s kinda cute. They show a clip of Donny in the movie College Road Trip. And yes, he may be showing up to try and show Marie up on Dancing with the stars next year. He tries to convince Rachael to do it too, and she says no way. The costumes are too small for people who love food! Her real excuse, she has five jobs and not enough time.

He loves to work with Lara - but he has a problem with her! She’s taller then he is, and has to stand on a box so that he looks taller then her! No one will notice that NOW, Donny! He says he’s up for anything that’s a challenge - he never loses sight of the fact his family is number one, but other then that, he’ll try anything!

Then it’s Colby again, showing off his stint at the sleep center in an attempt to solve his snoring problem. He gets hooked up to 27 electrodes on his body, and a team of experts nearby to examine his condition at the National Sleep Center. Colby says that it’s not the sterile lab you’d expect, so it’s comfortable. Sort of.

We see a clip as Colby goes through the process with Dr. Michael Breus, a specialist in sleep disorders. They hook him up, and settles in for 6 hours of sleep. The doctor says that he simply doesn’t get into deep sleep, which is the most refreshing wake up and feel great sleep. He woke more then 20 times, but didn’t have apnea (where the throat closes and you don’t breathe). Breathing levels were good, but he does snore - a lot. The diagnosis is that his sleeping problems probably have more to do with the fact he’d broken his nose before and it affected his breathing. He’s going to look into a surgical procedure to help solve that, and Rachael, of course, is going to follow along in the process.

Then we meet Seth Bixby Daugherty, an Incredible Person. He stopped working in the swanky restaurant, in order to go to work in school cafeterias, with Real Food Initiative. He works in the St. Paul, MN, schools to take out the processed foods and replace them with healthy choices, fruits and veggies and healthier versions of old favorites. He says that simply, it’s the best decision he made in his life.

All of that, and what’s for dinner? Chicken Fajita Soup!

Monday
Donny Osmond

Just call it “puppy love” when the legendary entertainer pulls a prank on one of Rachael’s unsuspecting staff members … and Rachael is next! Then, round 2 of our “Snore No More” challenge has Colby checking in to a sleep lab, where he’ll spend the night wired up to 27 electrodes. Will that do the trick, and what can help the snorer in your house?

Tuesday
Jesse L. Martin

Just what did Rachael do to get Law & Order’s Jesse L. Martin to slap handcuffs on her, and why does he need Rachael’s help? Then, meet a woman who tried a different self-help plan every month for nearly a year … did all that help do her any good? And don’t miss Rachael’s favorite shortcut for adding big flavor to any meal.

Wednesday
Drew Carey

Now you know him as the new host of The Price Is Right, but Drew Carey is also hosting a round of “Stump the Rach!” Then, are you always late? (Rachael is and her staff gives her a hard time about it!) We’re doing a “late intervention” with a chronically late mom, and sharing four easy tips that’ll have you running on time. Plus, a groundbreaking idea for dinner: Philly cheesesteak pizza!

Thursday
Breast Implants After 40

It’s a growing trend - women over 40 getting breast implants. Why are they doing it and what are the risks? Then, what can’t the gorgeous women of Lipstick Jungle live without? Cast member Kim Raver shares the details along with the truth behind those sexy love scenes! Plus, a college grad who’s trying 52 jobs in 52 weeks, including a stop at our show.

Friday
Oprah’s Buddy Nate Berkus

The host of The Big Give drops in to help 10 Rachael Ray viewers pull off their own life-changing projects that give back to their community and a very special young woman. And it’s our first-ever kids competition as Rachael and Naked Chef Jamie Oliver lead two teams of kid cooks in a fight to the finish!