This week Ben and the girls jetted off to gorgeous Vieques, Puerto Rico! This week was extra exciting for the girls because EVERYONE got to go on a date! Ben is getting closer to finding his future wife and certain girls are definitely starting to stand out, some for good reasons and some for bad (Courtney). This week's episode was filled with baseball, lots of skin, and a shocking rose ceremony elimination.
The first one-on-one date went to Nicki. A helicopter (of course) arrived at the Bachelor beach house to pick Ben and Nicki up for their date. They take a ride together around the beautiful island. They end up being dropped off at a historic park. The couple buys snow cones together and it looks like its going to be a beautiful day for an outdoor date. Unfortunately that was not the case. Suddenly it starts POURING rain. Ben and Nicki are completely drenched and have to run to find the closest shelter from the rain. It looks like their day is going to be completely ruined because of the now flooded Vieques. Thankfully, Ben can think on his feet and they decide to go shopping and buy some dry clothes. They pick out the most authentic Puerto Rican threads they can find. Nicki finds a beautifully colored dress and Ben buys a completely white outfit with a big hat that makes him look like a 70 year old Puerto Rican man. Thankfully the weather clears up while the couple has a fun time shopping. They take a walk and discover a wedding going on. They sit on a nearby bench and watch while discussing Nicki's previous marriage. Nicki tells Ben what went wrong and what she'll do differently this time. The evening portion of the date they spend more time talking while lounging and drinking wine. Ben and Nicki seem to have a good connection and he gives her the rose.
The group date ladies: Lindzi, Courtney, Jennifer, Kacie B., Emily, Rachel, Casey S., Jamie, and Blakely. This week's group date is a physical test, the girls have to play baseball! The girls and Ben are assisted by a few Carolina Gigantes coaches and run some drills. (This date would be my worst nightmare. I am not athletic in the least and I'm pretty sure if Ben saw me playing baseball that would assure my immediate elimination.) Some of the girls were super athletic and did great while others definitely struggled. After drills are over, Chris Harrison makes an appearance. The girls all know that when Chris shows up unexpectedly, it usually means something bad. Chris informs the girls that there will be a beach party for the later portion of the date. The problem is there isn't enough room for all the girls. The girls have to split into teams and play a baseball game against each other. The winning team gets to spend the night partying on the beach with Ben. The losing team has to go back to the house Bachelorless. Since there is an uneven number of girls, one girl gets to play both teams, which assures her invite to the beach party. Chris lets Ben make the decision of which girl will play on both teams and he chooses Lindzi (lucky girl).
Blue Team: Blakely, Emily, Rachel, and Jennifer.
Red Team: Courtney, Kacie B., Casey S., and Jamie.
The baseball game is really intense and of course its accompanied by the most intense Bachelor music (usually reserved for the finale). The game ends up being tied and having to go into an extra inning. Unfortunately, it is Jennifer who strikes out giving the win to the Red Team. Blakely, Emily, Rachel, and Jennifer are tearfully sent back to the house. During the beach date portion, Courtney is constantly bad mouthing all the girls. She thinks none of them are a threat to her except maybe Kacie B. (oh yes she is!). Ben and Kacie B. have some nice one on one time and Ben confesses every woman he's fallen really hard for doesn't seem to love him back. Kacie B. gets the rose and Ben tells her she makes it easy for him to open up. Courtney pulls Ben aside and tells him she wants to go skinny dipping with him. As we find out later in the episode, this is not just flirty talk.
The second one-on-one date goes to Elyse. We haven't really gotten to see much of Elyse. She's only been on one group date so she was really excited that she had a one-on-one this week. Ben takes Elyse on a private yacht (jealousss). They spend the afternoon drinking wine and talking while the yacht cruises around the island. At one point, the couple jumps off the boat and takes a swim together in the ocean. The boat docks at a beach where a beautiful dinner is set up for them (nice chandelier in the middle of the beach Bach producers). Throughout the date, it seems that Ben isn't really feeling it. During dinner he tells Elyse he has felt missed connections between them. He didn't find what he wanted to during their date. Ben thinks his relationships with the other women are far past what he feels he could get to with Elyse. He does not give her the rose and she is immediately eliminated. I want to scold Ben because while having his "you're not getting the rose" speech he was holding the rose in his hand the whole time! Poor girl thought he was going to hand her the rose and was totally shocked he sent her home. Ben puts Elyse on a boat and sends her home. Ben ends the date by throwing the rose into the ocean (thanks for the symbolism Bach producers). When the man comes to get Elyse's bags, the girls are shocked that she was sent home, realizing that not everyone is as safe as they think they are.
Sounds like a normal episode of The Bachelor, right?
Wrong.
After finding out Elyse is gone, Courtney decides to go to Ben's hotel room (bigggg no no). Ben is surprised to find Courtney in a robe waiting with wine when he arrives back from the date. Courtney says she's going to keep good on her promise to skinny dip with Ben. At this point, Courtney just makes me sick. She is rude, manipulative, cocky, and what we've most recently learned, a slut. In her interview she says Ben has "probably never skinny dipped with a model before" and she's going to "make his day." Could this girl be anymore into herself?! She and Ben go out to the beach and they quickly ditch their clothes and go out into the water together. Courtney has to be the BIGGEST slut in Bachelor history. Courtney is doing whatever it takes, like losing any respect or dignity people had for her, to get that rose from Ben. It's so obvious that Courtney is not there for Ben at all. The only thing she cares about is beating the other girls. She will do whatever it takes to make the other girls jealous. The sight of Courtney and Ben naked and making out in the water is disgusting.
Cocktail party time. Jennifer tells Ben she really likes him and she hasn't felt like this in a really long time. Blakely really opens up to Ben about how this process is changing her for the better and she's so happy about that. Ben is pleasantly surprised by his conversation with Blakely. Emily tries to make up for her mistakes last week. She tells Ben that she wants to focus on him and doesn't care about Courtney anymore. Sounds nice, right? Wrong. The conversation immediately flips and Emily starts bashing Courtney all over again! I literally yelled at the TV "WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?" Emily obviously got a second chance last week and it looks like she just screwed herself over again. During the rose ceremony (see full list below), it comes down to Emily and Jennifer. I think everyone was POSITIVE Emily was going home after sticking her foot in her mouth for the second week in a row. But apparently Ben believes in 3rd chances because Jennifer got the boot.
Next week: Panama, the two-on-one date (ah!), and a shocking interruption by Chris Harrison involving Casey S.! Can't wait! Have a great week girls!
IN:
-Nicki
-Kacie B.
-Lindzi
-Jamie
-Rachel
-Courtney
-Casey S.
-Blakely
-Emily
OUT:
-Elyse
-Jennifer
A weekly recap of ABC's The Bachelor.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
A Week with Mother Nature
This week Ben and the ladies made their way to breathtaking Park City, Utah. The dates this week embraced the great outdoors (just Ben's style). As we're getting closer and closer to finding the right girl for Ben, emotions are running high. Ben is starting to develop real, deep connections with the girls and with that comes the drama.
The first one-on-one date went to Rachel this week. At this point in the game girls are definitely becoming more jealous of each other getting special one-on-one time with Ben, but this week Kacie B. was especially emotional about it. Kacie B. seems to be having a really difficult time because she's developed a stronger connection with Ben than most girls so far and its hard for her to watch other girls spend time with him.
Rachel and Ben's date begins with a helicopter picking them up at the house (classic). After taking a short tour of the Utah landscapes, Ben and Rachel are safely back on land and take a canoe out on the lake. They row the canoe out to the middle of the lake with breathtaking scenery that provides a romantic moment for the couple. They share a kiss on the canoe which would have been so much sweeter if there hadn't been gnats flying around EVERYWHERE (come on Bach producers, think we could take care of that next time?). Then the couple shared a picnic by the lake. This is when it starts to get awkward. Rachel and Ben's conversation is extremely lacking. They have nothing to say to each other and Rachel just awkwardly starts talking about things around them to break the silence. Their conversation has absolutely no substance to it and consists of Rachel just rambling. Us girls at home can definitely tell that something is off. Ben says in his interview that he doesn't think Rachel shows any interest in him. The awkwardness continues at dinner and we are all positive that Rachel is not going to receive a rose on this date. Then, somehow, Rachel talks Ben into keeping her by confiding in him that its very hard for her to open up but she's really trying. Ben still sees potential with her so he gives her a rose hoping she will open up eventually. Even though Rachel is still in the running, I don't see their relationship continuing much further after the lack of chemistry we all witnessed on their date.
Group date lucky ladies: Jamie, Casey S., Blakely, Lindzi, Samantha, Nicki, Kacie B., and Courtney. The date begins with our Prince Charming riding up on a horse (literally). The girls join him and they all go horseback riding. Everyone seems to enjoy it and have a good time. The next task is a little more difficult for the girls: fly fishing (um, what?!). The girls have absolutely no idea what they are doing, which gives Ben an opportunity to spend some one-on-one time with the girls to help them. Courtney is being especially catty on this date. She's bad mouthing the other girls and acts like she has Ben eating out of the palm of her hand (which she kind of does, unfortunately). Courtney pulls him aside while they are fly fishing and of COURSE he is captivated by her and we have no idea why. Courtney has about as much personality as a wall. The other girls are all annoyed by Courtney and to make it even worse, she's the only girl who catches a fish.
The later part of the date consists of lounging around the pool. We find out that Ben has been in love 4 times (does anyone else think that's a lot?). Nicki and Ben bond over both having lost someone close to them very recently, but Samantha interrupts. Samantha rudely asks Ben why she's been on 3 group dates. Ben is offended by this because Samantha has had a date every week and not all the girls have so she should not be complaining. Ben tells her that he has observed that she's emotional and dramatic and doesn't think that she is there for him. Ben doesn't think Samantha is taking this opportunity seriously and he doesn't see it going any further. He unexpectedly sends her home right in the middle of the date (love it when they make their own rules!) The other girls on the date are shocked by this sudden elimination. After the drama, Kacie B. gets to spend some alone time with Ben. He tells her that he wanted to kiss her so badly during fly fishing but he wanted to be sensitive to the other girls' feelings (so sweet). Ben admits that he really likes Kacie B. and that their relationship is growing faster than the others. At this point we are all positive that Kacie B. is going to receive the rose on the date, but Courtney isn't going to let that happen. She pulls Ben aside and tells him she's having a super rough time and she's upset. This is classic case of a girl working a man. She totally tricks Ben into giving her the rose to comfort her and assure her of his feelings. Then Courtney proceeds to brag to the camera about getting the rose and how"winning" she is. Irritating much?
The last one-on-one goes to Jennifer (yay!). Jennifer seems like a really sweet, genuine girl and I was really glad that she got to have a one-on-one this week. Their date begins with just a normal hike up a mountain, but then Jennifer learns this date is anything but normal. Ben shows Jennifer a huge crater in the ground and then informs her that they will be rappelling down it (at this point I would start questioning if this guy was really worth it). They strip down to their bathing suits and begin repelling into the giant hole in the Earth. After they get a good ways down, they unhook their harness and fall down into the water below. Ben and Jennifer (Affleck and Garner?) play around in the water and share a few kisses. Then they have some time to clean up and get beautified (thanks Bach producers) for an outdoor dinner. They discuss past relationships (classic first one-on-one date convo) and Jennifer shares that she walked away from a four and a half year relationship because the man wasn't going to marry her (good for you girl!). Their dinner is cut short because it starts storming. Ben and Jennifer run together in the rain to get inside (super romantic). After they are dry and inside, Ben tells Jennifer that he feels really comfortable with her and gives her the rose. Ben then surprises Jennifer with a Clay Walker concert (I'm sorry, who?) and they have a great time singing and dancing together. Overall it was a great date for Ben and Jennifer.
One quick side note: while Ben and Jennifer were on their date Blakely did Emily's highlights. Does anyone else find that weird? I guess there must not be a lot to do when you aren't hanging out with our Bachelor.
Cocktail party time. Emily is concerned about Courtney being fake to Ben and decides to confront Ben about it. I really like Emily but we have learned from previous seasons that this is a HUGE no no in The Bachelor/Bachelorette handbook. Of course Ben doesn't want to hear it and he tells Emily she needs to not worry about Courtney because it will only drive her crazy. The only thing Emily needs to be concerned with is her relationship with Ben. Emily makes the mistake of relaying her conversation with Ben to some of the girls including Casey S., who happens to be Courtney's best friend in the house. Uh ohhhhh. Casey S. then gets up (where are her pants?!) and immediately goes to tell Courtney what Emily was saying. Courtney then confronts Emily and the drama ensues. The only highlight of the evening is that it snows! This creates a very romantic moment for Ben and Nicki as they watch the snow out on the balcony. Then its time for a pretty uneventful rose ceremony. The only really notable thing was how cute Chris Harrison looked in his striped shirt and skinny tie. Ben waits to give Emily the last rose so us girls at home were nervous that she had screwed herself over but thankfully she is around for another week to redeem herself.
Next week: Puerto Rico, skinny dipping, and more trash talk! Have a fabulous week bachelorettes!
IN:
-Courtney
-Rachel
-Jennifer
-Lindzi
-Jamie
-Nicki
-Kacie B.
-Elyse
-Blakely
-Casey S.
-Emily
OUT:
-Monica
-Samantha
The first one-on-one date went to Rachel this week. At this point in the game girls are definitely becoming more jealous of each other getting special one-on-one time with Ben, but this week Kacie B. was especially emotional about it. Kacie B. seems to be having a really difficult time because she's developed a stronger connection with Ben than most girls so far and its hard for her to watch other girls spend time with him.
Rachel and Ben's date begins with a helicopter picking them up at the house (classic). After taking a short tour of the Utah landscapes, Ben and Rachel are safely back on land and take a canoe out on the lake. They row the canoe out to the middle of the lake with breathtaking scenery that provides a romantic moment for the couple. They share a kiss on the canoe which would have been so much sweeter if there hadn't been gnats flying around EVERYWHERE (come on Bach producers, think we could take care of that next time?). Then the couple shared a picnic by the lake. This is when it starts to get awkward. Rachel and Ben's conversation is extremely lacking. They have nothing to say to each other and Rachel just awkwardly starts talking about things around them to break the silence. Their conversation has absolutely no substance to it and consists of Rachel just rambling. Us girls at home can definitely tell that something is off. Ben says in his interview that he doesn't think Rachel shows any interest in him. The awkwardness continues at dinner and we are all positive that Rachel is not going to receive a rose on this date. Then, somehow, Rachel talks Ben into keeping her by confiding in him that its very hard for her to open up but she's really trying. Ben still sees potential with her so he gives her a rose hoping she will open up eventually. Even though Rachel is still in the running, I don't see their relationship continuing much further after the lack of chemistry we all witnessed on their date.
Group date lucky ladies: Jamie, Casey S., Blakely, Lindzi, Samantha, Nicki, Kacie B., and Courtney. The date begins with our Prince Charming riding up on a horse (literally). The girls join him and they all go horseback riding. Everyone seems to enjoy it and have a good time. The next task is a little more difficult for the girls: fly fishing (um, what?!). The girls have absolutely no idea what they are doing, which gives Ben an opportunity to spend some one-on-one time with the girls to help them. Courtney is being especially catty on this date. She's bad mouthing the other girls and acts like she has Ben eating out of the palm of her hand (which she kind of does, unfortunately). Courtney pulls him aside while they are fly fishing and of COURSE he is captivated by her and we have no idea why. Courtney has about as much personality as a wall. The other girls are all annoyed by Courtney and to make it even worse, she's the only girl who catches a fish.
The later part of the date consists of lounging around the pool. We find out that Ben has been in love 4 times (does anyone else think that's a lot?). Nicki and Ben bond over both having lost someone close to them very recently, but Samantha interrupts. Samantha rudely asks Ben why she's been on 3 group dates. Ben is offended by this because Samantha has had a date every week and not all the girls have so she should not be complaining. Ben tells her that he has observed that she's emotional and dramatic and doesn't think that she is there for him. Ben doesn't think Samantha is taking this opportunity seriously and he doesn't see it going any further. He unexpectedly sends her home right in the middle of the date (love it when they make their own rules!) The other girls on the date are shocked by this sudden elimination. After the drama, Kacie B. gets to spend some alone time with Ben. He tells her that he wanted to kiss her so badly during fly fishing but he wanted to be sensitive to the other girls' feelings (so sweet). Ben admits that he really likes Kacie B. and that their relationship is growing faster than the others. At this point we are all positive that Kacie B. is going to receive the rose on the date, but Courtney isn't going to let that happen. She pulls Ben aside and tells him she's having a super rough time and she's upset. This is classic case of a girl working a man. She totally tricks Ben into giving her the rose to comfort her and assure her of his feelings. Then Courtney proceeds to brag to the camera about getting the rose and how"winning" she is. Irritating much?
The last one-on-one goes to Jennifer (yay!). Jennifer seems like a really sweet, genuine girl and I was really glad that she got to have a one-on-one this week. Their date begins with just a normal hike up a mountain, but then Jennifer learns this date is anything but normal. Ben shows Jennifer a huge crater in the ground and then informs her that they will be rappelling down it (at this point I would start questioning if this guy was really worth it). They strip down to their bathing suits and begin repelling into the giant hole in the Earth. After they get a good ways down, they unhook their harness and fall down into the water below. Ben and Jennifer (Affleck and Garner?) play around in the water and share a few kisses. Then they have some time to clean up and get beautified (thanks Bach producers) for an outdoor dinner. They discuss past relationships (classic first one-on-one date convo) and Jennifer shares that she walked away from a four and a half year relationship because the man wasn't going to marry her (good for you girl!). Their dinner is cut short because it starts storming. Ben and Jennifer run together in the rain to get inside (super romantic). After they are dry and inside, Ben tells Jennifer that he feels really comfortable with her and gives her the rose. Ben then surprises Jennifer with a Clay Walker concert (I'm sorry, who?) and they have a great time singing and dancing together. Overall it was a great date for Ben and Jennifer.
One quick side note: while Ben and Jennifer were on their date Blakely did Emily's highlights. Does anyone else find that weird? I guess there must not be a lot to do when you aren't hanging out with our Bachelor.
Cocktail party time. Emily is concerned about Courtney being fake to Ben and decides to confront Ben about it. I really like Emily but we have learned from previous seasons that this is a HUGE no no in The Bachelor/Bachelorette handbook. Of course Ben doesn't want to hear it and he tells Emily she needs to not worry about Courtney because it will only drive her crazy. The only thing Emily needs to be concerned with is her relationship with Ben. Emily makes the mistake of relaying her conversation with Ben to some of the girls including Casey S., who happens to be Courtney's best friend in the house. Uh ohhhhh. Casey S. then gets up (where are her pants?!) and immediately goes to tell Courtney what Emily was saying. Courtney then confronts Emily and the drama ensues. The only highlight of the evening is that it snows! This creates a very romantic moment for Ben and Nicki as they watch the snow out on the balcony. Then its time for a pretty uneventful rose ceremony. The only really notable thing was how cute Chris Harrison looked in his striped shirt and skinny tie. Ben waits to give Emily the last rose so us girls at home were nervous that she had screwed herself over but thankfully she is around for another week to redeem herself.
Next week: Puerto Rico, skinny dipping, and more trash talk! Have a fabulous week bachelorettes!
IN:
-Courtney
-Rachel
-Jennifer
-Lindzi
-Jamie
-Nicki
-Kacie B.
-Elyse
-Blakely
-Casey S.
-Emily
OUT:
-Monica
-Samantha
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Hearts Left in San Francisco
Last night's episode was a pretty crazy one. The mystery woman finally appeared, a bachelorette left on her own terms, and one bachelorette passed out at the rose ceremony! So if you didn't get to watch last night's episode here's what you missed:
This week Ben brought the girls to San Francisco, which is currently where he lives. The girls were very excited to get to spend time with Ben in the city by the bay. The episode began with Ben meeting up with his sister, Julia, to discuss how his experience is going so far. Julia's sister seemed very concerned for her brother and was hopeful that the experience would work for him this time. One notable thing about the conversation Ben and Julia had was Ben told her about Courtney and how drama free she was. Um, WHAT?! Obviously Ben is on some other planet when it comes to Courtney because besides Blakely, Courtney is the front runner for causing the most drama in the house. But like I've said before, Ben is captivated by Courtney for some reason and can't see through her facade.
The first date of the week goes to Emily, the epidemiologist who cleverly stole the first kiss on the first night from Ben. The beginning of their date starts with the classic Bachelor "run to each other and jump hug." A little cheesy of course, but if we cared about cheesy we wouldn't be watching The Bachelor, would we girls? Ben and Emily's date is an exciting one! They have to climb to the top of the Golden Gate Bridge together. The Golden Gate Bridge was not built to be climbed so trekking to the top was a very scary and unsettling task. I don't know about y'all, but I was nauseous just watching it! The Bachelor is known for having dangerous dates that force the couple bond because they help each other through it. Ben and Emily both were uneasy about climbing the bridge but they persevered together (a kiss from Ben was great motivation) and they made it to the top! The view from the top of the bridge was absolutely breathtaking. I know all our hearts at home sank a little bit wishing it were us on top of that bridge.
After climbing the bridge, Emily and Ben have a nice dinner outside with a beautiful backdrop of the lit up Golden Gate Bridge. They have a nice dinner chatting and sharing stories, including the time Emily was matched with her own brother on an online dating website (fear)! Their dinner ends with Ben giving Emily the rose (no surprise there). The date ends with Emily and Ben taking in the gorgeous bridge together and kissing (cue the fireworks, literally).
Next is the group date. The lucky ladies are: Blakely, Jaclyn, Kacie B., Erika, Samantha, Monica, Rachel, Jamie, Nicki, Casey S., and Elyse. The girls are told to dress in sundresses and bathing suits, hoping they will have a nice day at the pool. Boy were they in for a huge surprise. They were very inappropriately dressed for a date of snow skiing. Yes that's right, skiing in bathing suits. Ben blocked off a street in San Francisco and had it covered in snow so he and the girls could ski. Ben and the girls had a lot of fun suffering their way through skiing nearly naked. Many people were standing by watching because it certainly was a sight to see 11 girls skiing in their bathing suits.
The later part of the date consists of a luau themed party with lots of cocktails. Ben makes his way around the girls. He and Rachel have a short make out sesh which provokes Casie B. to get jealous. Ben notices and decides to take Casie B. aside. He takes her on a short walk and they have a great conversation. Our Bachelor admits to the cameras that he really likes Casie B (yay!).
Meanwhile, the girls back at the house receive the next one-on-one date card and its addressed to Brittney. Brittney's reaction is very odd and shocking. She seems disappointed to get the one-on-one date. What girl in their right mind would be DISAPPOINTED to have all of Ben's attention for an entire day?! Brittney shockingly admits that she is going to leave the show. Her exit comes completely out of left field. She says that she's sad she's not going to see what would happen with her and Ben while we're left at home thinking WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! Brittney interrupts the group date to tell Ben she's had a change of heart and wants to leave. Ben is left shocked and hurt at Brittney's sudden exit from the show. This girl made her poor grandmother come all the way out there to introduce her to Ben and now she's quitting? We're all a little confused but you have to respect her for not sticking around and wasting Ben's time. Brittney's exit leaves Ben feeling insecure as he's realizing that this game is a two-way street and he could still end up with no one. Ben gives the group date rose to Rachel.
Since Brittney left, the one-on-one date is still up for grabs. Ben asks Lindzi to go on the date with him. She is thrilled because she hasn't had a date with Ben in 2 weeks. Ben and Lindzi's date consists of exploring the city after hours. First, they stop to get some ice cream and then they take a trolley car to city hall, which is closed. For some magical reason (thanks Bachelor producers), Ben has a key! He opens city hall and they walk into the enormous lobby to find Matt Nathanson performing a concert. The couple dances to their own private concert and share a few kisses. After the concert, Ben and Lindzi go to a password only speakeasy to have dinner. The speakeasy is a neat place where bookcases open into new rooms. The two have a nice dinner and Lindzi tells him how her last relationship ended with a text saying "Welcome to Dumpsville. Population... you."(heartbreaking). Lindzi adds another rose to her collection and the two go to a piano shop where Ben plays the piano for her. They spend the rest of the evening laughing together and having a great time. Ben really seems to like this one.
Now its time for what we've been waiting for. The mystery girl shows up. We learn that the mystery girl who has come to try to win Ben's heart is Shawntel Newton, who was a previous contestant and 4th runner up on Brad Womack's (second) season. Shawntel boldly shows up at the cocktail party and walks right past the girls with her head held high to find Ben. As viewers, we're all a little confused by why Shawntel is here. We don't ever get a full explanation but what I can gather is that Shawntel saw Ben on The Bachelorette and liked him. After the show was over, she must have reached out in someway to him and talked a little bit. When she found out he was going to be the new Bachelor she was heartbroken so she decided to come on the show and fight to win his heart. Shawntel tells Ben she will be at the rose ceremony and if he would like to keep seeing her to give her a rose. The girls are INFURIATED by Shawntel's unexpected appearance. They immediately start bashing Shawntel and Courtney even threatens to leave if Shawntel gets to say. I am supportive of Shawntel, if she really saw potential between her and Ben she should fight and do whatever it takes to get her man. I do agree, however, that it would be incredibly unfair if Ben were to keep Shawntel over another girl.
Now its time for probably the most dramatic rose ceremony EVER. The girls are all fuming that Shawntel is there and participating in their rose ceremony. As the names are called the drama builds and emotions are high. As each name is called that doesn't belong to Erika, she looks sicker and sicker. Finally, Ben is about to hand out the final rose and begins to give a little speech to the girls. There are three girls left: Erika, Jaclyn, and Shawntel. Suddenly, Erika falls to the ground and basically passes out. The producers run to the scene and clear out all the other girls while they give Erika some water and time. After Erika pulls it together, Ben continues his speech. Ben tells the girls that the final rose will go to no one tonight (I LOVE it when they make their own rules, although I know it has to piss of our fave host, Chris Harrison). The girls are SHOCKED. Erika sits down fighting passing out again and Jaclyn runs out of the room sobbing. Shawntel just gets angry and gives Ben a short goodbye. Shawntel walks out emotional and embarrassed. I think that Ben did the right thing with not giving the rose to Shawntel. I also commend him for not giving out the final rose because he didn't want to waste any girl's time he didn't feel a real connection with.
Here's what we have to look forward to next week: The girls and Ben conquer Utah, a potential unexpected elimination, and Courtney finally gets ganged up on by the other girls (can't wait)! Have a fantastic week girls!
IN:
-Lindzi
-Rachel
-Emily
-Courtney
-Kacie B.
-Elyse
-Jamie
-Jennifer
-Casey S.
-Blakely
-Monica
-Nicki
-Samantha
OUT:
-Jaclyn
-Erika
-Shawntel
-Brittney (by choice)
This week Ben brought the girls to San Francisco, which is currently where he lives. The girls were very excited to get to spend time with Ben in the city by the bay. The episode began with Ben meeting up with his sister, Julia, to discuss how his experience is going so far. Julia's sister seemed very concerned for her brother and was hopeful that the experience would work for him this time. One notable thing about the conversation Ben and Julia had was Ben told her about Courtney and how drama free she was. Um, WHAT?! Obviously Ben is on some other planet when it comes to Courtney because besides Blakely, Courtney is the front runner for causing the most drama in the house. But like I've said before, Ben is captivated by Courtney for some reason and can't see through her facade.
The first date of the week goes to Emily, the epidemiologist who cleverly stole the first kiss on the first night from Ben. The beginning of their date starts with the classic Bachelor "run to each other and jump hug." A little cheesy of course, but if we cared about cheesy we wouldn't be watching The Bachelor, would we girls? Ben and Emily's date is an exciting one! They have to climb to the top of the Golden Gate Bridge together. The Golden Gate Bridge was not built to be climbed so trekking to the top was a very scary and unsettling task. I don't know about y'all, but I was nauseous just watching it! The Bachelor is known for having dangerous dates that force the couple bond because they help each other through it. Ben and Emily both were uneasy about climbing the bridge but they persevered together (a kiss from Ben was great motivation) and they made it to the top! The view from the top of the bridge was absolutely breathtaking. I know all our hearts at home sank a little bit wishing it were us on top of that bridge.
After climbing the bridge, Emily and Ben have a nice dinner outside with a beautiful backdrop of the lit up Golden Gate Bridge. They have a nice dinner chatting and sharing stories, including the time Emily was matched with her own brother on an online dating website (fear)! Their dinner ends with Ben giving Emily the rose (no surprise there). The date ends with Emily and Ben taking in the gorgeous bridge together and kissing (cue the fireworks, literally).
Next is the group date. The lucky ladies are: Blakely, Jaclyn, Kacie B., Erika, Samantha, Monica, Rachel, Jamie, Nicki, Casey S., and Elyse. The girls are told to dress in sundresses and bathing suits, hoping they will have a nice day at the pool. Boy were they in for a huge surprise. They were very inappropriately dressed for a date of snow skiing. Yes that's right, skiing in bathing suits. Ben blocked off a street in San Francisco and had it covered in snow so he and the girls could ski. Ben and the girls had a lot of fun suffering their way through skiing nearly naked. Many people were standing by watching because it certainly was a sight to see 11 girls skiing in their bathing suits.
The later part of the date consists of a luau themed party with lots of cocktails. Ben makes his way around the girls. He and Rachel have a short make out sesh which provokes Casie B. to get jealous. Ben notices and decides to take Casie B. aside. He takes her on a short walk and they have a great conversation. Our Bachelor admits to the cameras that he really likes Casie B (yay!).
Meanwhile, the girls back at the house receive the next one-on-one date card and its addressed to Brittney. Brittney's reaction is very odd and shocking. She seems disappointed to get the one-on-one date. What girl in their right mind would be DISAPPOINTED to have all of Ben's attention for an entire day?! Brittney shockingly admits that she is going to leave the show. Her exit comes completely out of left field. She says that she's sad she's not going to see what would happen with her and Ben while we're left at home thinking WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! Brittney interrupts the group date to tell Ben she's had a change of heart and wants to leave. Ben is left shocked and hurt at Brittney's sudden exit from the show. This girl made her poor grandmother come all the way out there to introduce her to Ben and now she's quitting? We're all a little confused but you have to respect her for not sticking around and wasting Ben's time. Brittney's exit leaves Ben feeling insecure as he's realizing that this game is a two-way street and he could still end up with no one. Ben gives the group date rose to Rachel.
Since Brittney left, the one-on-one date is still up for grabs. Ben asks Lindzi to go on the date with him. She is thrilled because she hasn't had a date with Ben in 2 weeks. Ben and Lindzi's date consists of exploring the city after hours. First, they stop to get some ice cream and then they take a trolley car to city hall, which is closed. For some magical reason (thanks Bachelor producers), Ben has a key! He opens city hall and they walk into the enormous lobby to find Matt Nathanson performing a concert. The couple dances to their own private concert and share a few kisses. After the concert, Ben and Lindzi go to a password only speakeasy to have dinner. The speakeasy is a neat place where bookcases open into new rooms. The two have a nice dinner and Lindzi tells him how her last relationship ended with a text saying "Welcome to Dumpsville. Population... you."(heartbreaking). Lindzi adds another rose to her collection and the two go to a piano shop where Ben plays the piano for her. They spend the rest of the evening laughing together and having a great time. Ben really seems to like this one.
Now its time for what we've been waiting for. The mystery girl shows up. We learn that the mystery girl who has come to try to win Ben's heart is Shawntel Newton, who was a previous contestant and 4th runner up on Brad Womack's (second) season. Shawntel boldly shows up at the cocktail party and walks right past the girls with her head held high to find Ben. As viewers, we're all a little confused by why Shawntel is here. We don't ever get a full explanation but what I can gather is that Shawntel saw Ben on The Bachelorette and liked him. After the show was over, she must have reached out in someway to him and talked a little bit. When she found out he was going to be the new Bachelor she was heartbroken so she decided to come on the show and fight to win his heart. Shawntel tells Ben she will be at the rose ceremony and if he would like to keep seeing her to give her a rose. The girls are INFURIATED by Shawntel's unexpected appearance. They immediately start bashing Shawntel and Courtney even threatens to leave if Shawntel gets to say. I am supportive of Shawntel, if she really saw potential between her and Ben she should fight and do whatever it takes to get her man. I do agree, however, that it would be incredibly unfair if Ben were to keep Shawntel over another girl.
Now its time for probably the most dramatic rose ceremony EVER. The girls are all fuming that Shawntel is there and participating in their rose ceremony. As the names are called the drama builds and emotions are high. As each name is called that doesn't belong to Erika, she looks sicker and sicker. Finally, Ben is about to hand out the final rose and begins to give a little speech to the girls. There are three girls left: Erika, Jaclyn, and Shawntel. Suddenly, Erika falls to the ground and basically passes out. The producers run to the scene and clear out all the other girls while they give Erika some water and time. After Erika pulls it together, Ben continues his speech. Ben tells the girls that the final rose will go to no one tonight (I LOVE it when they make their own rules, although I know it has to piss of our fave host, Chris Harrison). The girls are SHOCKED. Erika sits down fighting passing out again and Jaclyn runs out of the room sobbing. Shawntel just gets angry and gives Ben a short goodbye. Shawntel walks out emotional and embarrassed. I think that Ben did the right thing with not giving the rose to Shawntel. I also commend him for not giving out the final rose because he didn't want to waste any girl's time he didn't feel a real connection with.
Here's what we have to look forward to next week: The girls and Ben conquer Utah, a potential unexpected elimination, and Courtney finally gets ganged up on by the other girls (can't wait)! Have a fantastic week girls!
IN:
-Lindzi
-Rachel
-Emily
-Courtney
-Kacie B.
-Elyse
-Jamie
-Jennifer
-Casey S.
-Blakely
-Monica
-Nicki
-Samantha
OUT:
-Jaclyn
-Erika
-Shawntel
-Brittney (by choice)
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
A Week in Sonoma
So this week our Bachelor decided to take the ladies to his hometown in Sonoma, CA! I know what you're thinking. Isn't that supposed to be the last episode where Ben shows the final two girls his hometown?! Usually it is but our Bachelor Ben makes the rules this season and the first stop he wanted to make was his hometown (maybe the future home of one of our bachelorettes?!).
The first date card arrives at the Sonoma mansion and its a one-on-one date for Casie B.! Ben takes Casie B. on a date in downtown Sonoma. They take a nice stroll around downtown and Ben gives Casie the history of his hometown. The couple has fun making their way in and out of little shops. At a candy shop, Casie buys a special gift so she can share one of her secret talents with Ben. She's a baton twirler! Casie is as cute and charming as can be as she teaches Ben a few of her tricks. After strolling around town Casie B. and Ben make their way to dinner at a restaurant in downtown Sonoma. I personally liked this because Casie and Ben's date was so real. A lot of times the dates on The Bachelor are over the top and unrealistic. This date was exactly how it would have been in the real world. Strolling around town, looking in shops, and eating dinner at a nice restaurant instead of the typical extravagant seven course dinner set up in the middle of fountains somewhere. Ben and Casie have a great dinner and good conversation as they discuss the loss of Ben's dad and how it affected him. As usual, there's a rose on the table throughout the meal. And of course Ben gives the rose to sweet southern Casie B. He'd be crazy not to (she's one of my personal front runners). After dinner, Ben takes Casie across the street to the Sebastian Theatre. Casie is surprised when her own home videos show up on the big screen. She and Ben watch both of their home videos of Christmases, birthdays, and family time. Ben was an absolutely adorable baby! After seeing videos with his dad, Ben starts to get really emotional and tears up. After the videos are over, Casie comforts Ben. Sharing that moment together definitely forms an emotional bond between the two of them. The date was pretty much perfect. And like every perfect date should end, it ended with a kiss!
This was probably my favorite Bachelor/Bachelorette date ever. It was such a simple date but so real. I really loved the part where they showed home videos because it was a creative and special way for them to learn about each other.
Next is the group date! The date card names are read off and the lucky girls are: Brittney, Rachel, Jennifer, Blakely, Emily, Jenna, Shawn, Monica, Samantha, Jamie, Nicki, and Jaclyn. The girls arrive at Sonoma's town square to meet Ben. He informs them that today they are going to be performing a play! The best part? Ben has arranged for a bunch of children to help. I think Ben specifically chose to involve kids in this date so he could see how the woman interact with children. Before performing the play, the girls have to audition for the kids. Each girl gets on the stage and the kids get to tell them how to act. The majority of the girls make complete fools of themselves but still have fun with it. We get to see Ben joking around with the kids which makes all of us at home fall even more in love with this seemingly perfect man. The most interesting audition had to be Blakely's, purely because of her outfit. Not only did Blakely come to play, but so did her HUGE boobs. She wore a super skin tight romper which had no where near the capacity to contain her boobs. She definitely made a statement in her skimpy attire. Next up is the play. The girls have to dress in CRAZY costumes including a gingerbread man, a donkey, and my personal favorite, a weasel. The play is about Prince Pino (Ben) and his search for love in Bachelorville. The girls and Ben make fools of themselves in front of the town of Sonoma and it is hysterical. The play was an excellent opportunity for some of the girls because a few girls' characters had to kiss the prince! The best part of the play by far was when Ben stripped down to just some skimpy shorts. Ben looked so good every female jaw dropped in the place!
Later in the evening, the girls went to a pool party (a Bachelor group date favorite!). The pool party is heavy on the drama. A bunch of girls in bathing suits and only one man? Of course its time for the claws to come out! Our bitch of the group finally emerges at the pool party. Blakely. She is the typical Bachelor villain. She's a super catty bitch around all the girls but its masked when she's with Ben. He's completely fooled by her and has no idea how horrible she truly is. Blakely grinds on the other girls' nerves because she acts very cocky and tells them she deserves the rose on the date. Ben and Jennifer have a nice private moment where they have a full on make out sesh! And it was totally initiated by Ben. Then, Blakely THROWS herself on Ben and it upsets the other girls. Samantha calls her a "candy striper hooker" which is actually a pretty accurate description. The girls spend the rest of the night gossiping about Blakely and when some comes over to talk to them, they immediately disperse. And of course, Ben is completely blinded by all of it and gives the rose to Blakely.
The last one-on-one date is Courtney (ugh). Courtney is the other bitch of the house. She's way too into herself and constantly brags about the connection she has with Ben to intimidate the other girls. The girls in the house hate her. I could be wrong about this but if the majority of the girls in the house hate another girl, there's definitely a reason why. Courtney's date with Ben was exactly like she is, boring. Although Ben does bring his cute dog Scotch with him and we get to see how much he truly loves that dog he baby talks to. Ben takes Courtney to the Redwood forest for a picnic lunch. After they spend the rest of the afternoon sitting and talking by the water, they get cleaned up and go to dinner (a candlelight table set up in the middle of the woods, what happened to realistic Chris Harrison?). Ben, OF COURSE, is completely gaga for Courtney. He's obviously already head over heels for her and we're all wondering why (classic Bachelor Brad Womack and Emily). Ben gives Courtney the rose (shocker) and the only thing she seems concerned with is showing off her rose to the other girls. Courtney seems to be much more interested in the competition with the girls than Ben.
Now its time for the cocktail party. The party starts out good with Ben catching up with Lyndzi since he didn't see her all week, but then it turns bad fast. Ben pulls Samantha aside so they can talk but Blakely, who already has a rose this week, steals Ben from Samantha. All the girls are immediately irritated by this and their irritation grows when Blakely tries to steal him AGAIN from another girl. Jenna struggles to find the right words when she is trying to explain herself to Ben and just comes off as really weird. Jenna gets upset and goes upstairs to get in bed and cry (yes I'm serious). Meanwhile, Blakely overhears some girls bad mouthing her and runs upstairs to cry in a corner. Yes ladies that's right, we now have two girls crying upstairs. Ben, our heroic Bachelor, comforts them and pulls the crying girls out of their weep caves because its time for the rose ceremony!
The rose ceremony was pretty straight forward and uneventful minus the fact that every time the camera was on Jenna during the ceremony she looked like she was gonna start sobbing on the spot. Which she did end up doing. She did not receive a rose this week (see full list below) and had an emotional breakdown as she said her goodbyes to The Bachelor cameras.
This was a great episode this week and now our Bachelor is one step closer to finding love! Here's a few things we have to look forward to next week: The girls are going to San Francisco, Brittney has a confession for Ben, someone passes out at the rose ceremony, and the new mystery girl arrives!
Have a great week girls!
IN:
-Casie B.
-Blakely
-Courtney
-Jennifer
-Emily
-Elyse
-Jaclyn
-Erika
-Rachel
-Lyndzi
-Nicki
-Casey S.
-Samantha
-Monica
-Jamie
-Brittney
OUT:
-Shawn
-Jenna
The first date card arrives at the Sonoma mansion and its a one-on-one date for Casie B.! Ben takes Casie B. on a date in downtown Sonoma. They take a nice stroll around downtown and Ben gives Casie the history of his hometown. The couple has fun making their way in and out of little shops. At a candy shop, Casie buys a special gift so she can share one of her secret talents with Ben. She's a baton twirler! Casie is as cute and charming as can be as she teaches Ben a few of her tricks. After strolling around town Casie B. and Ben make their way to dinner at a restaurant in downtown Sonoma. I personally liked this because Casie and Ben's date was so real. A lot of times the dates on The Bachelor are over the top and unrealistic. This date was exactly how it would have been in the real world. Strolling around town, looking in shops, and eating dinner at a nice restaurant instead of the typical extravagant seven course dinner set up in the middle of fountains somewhere. Ben and Casie have a great dinner and good conversation as they discuss the loss of Ben's dad and how it affected him. As usual, there's a rose on the table throughout the meal. And of course Ben gives the rose to sweet southern Casie B. He'd be crazy not to (she's one of my personal front runners). After dinner, Ben takes Casie across the street to the Sebastian Theatre. Casie is surprised when her own home videos show up on the big screen. She and Ben watch both of their home videos of Christmases, birthdays, and family time. Ben was an absolutely adorable baby! After seeing videos with his dad, Ben starts to get really emotional and tears up. After the videos are over, Casie comforts Ben. Sharing that moment together definitely forms an emotional bond between the two of them. The date was pretty much perfect. And like every perfect date should end, it ended with a kiss!
This was probably my favorite Bachelor/Bachelorette date ever. It was such a simple date but so real. I really loved the part where they showed home videos because it was a creative and special way for them to learn about each other.
Next is the group date! The date card names are read off and the lucky girls are: Brittney, Rachel, Jennifer, Blakely, Emily, Jenna, Shawn, Monica, Samantha, Jamie, Nicki, and Jaclyn. The girls arrive at Sonoma's town square to meet Ben. He informs them that today they are going to be performing a play! The best part? Ben has arranged for a bunch of children to help. I think Ben specifically chose to involve kids in this date so he could see how the woman interact with children. Before performing the play, the girls have to audition for the kids. Each girl gets on the stage and the kids get to tell them how to act. The majority of the girls make complete fools of themselves but still have fun with it. We get to see Ben joking around with the kids which makes all of us at home fall even more in love with this seemingly perfect man. The most interesting audition had to be Blakely's, purely because of her outfit. Not only did Blakely come to play, but so did her HUGE boobs. She wore a super skin tight romper which had no where near the capacity to contain her boobs. She definitely made a statement in her skimpy attire. Next up is the play. The girls have to dress in CRAZY costumes including a gingerbread man, a donkey, and my personal favorite, a weasel. The play is about Prince Pino (Ben) and his search for love in Bachelorville. The girls and Ben make fools of themselves in front of the town of Sonoma and it is hysterical. The play was an excellent opportunity for some of the girls because a few girls' characters had to kiss the prince! The best part of the play by far was when Ben stripped down to just some skimpy shorts. Ben looked so good every female jaw dropped in the place!
Later in the evening, the girls went to a pool party (a Bachelor group date favorite!). The pool party is heavy on the drama. A bunch of girls in bathing suits and only one man? Of course its time for the claws to come out! Our bitch of the group finally emerges at the pool party. Blakely. She is the typical Bachelor villain. She's a super catty bitch around all the girls but its masked when she's with Ben. He's completely fooled by her and has no idea how horrible she truly is. Blakely grinds on the other girls' nerves because she acts very cocky and tells them she deserves the rose on the date. Ben and Jennifer have a nice private moment where they have a full on make out sesh! And it was totally initiated by Ben. Then, Blakely THROWS herself on Ben and it upsets the other girls. Samantha calls her a "candy striper hooker" which is actually a pretty accurate description. The girls spend the rest of the night gossiping about Blakely and when some comes over to talk to them, they immediately disperse. And of course, Ben is completely blinded by all of it and gives the rose to Blakely.
The last one-on-one date is Courtney (ugh). Courtney is the other bitch of the house. She's way too into herself and constantly brags about the connection she has with Ben to intimidate the other girls. The girls in the house hate her. I could be wrong about this but if the majority of the girls in the house hate another girl, there's definitely a reason why. Courtney's date with Ben was exactly like she is, boring. Although Ben does bring his cute dog Scotch with him and we get to see how much he truly loves that dog he baby talks to. Ben takes Courtney to the Redwood forest for a picnic lunch. After they spend the rest of the afternoon sitting and talking by the water, they get cleaned up and go to dinner (a candlelight table set up in the middle of the woods, what happened to realistic Chris Harrison?). Ben, OF COURSE, is completely gaga for Courtney. He's obviously already head over heels for her and we're all wondering why (classic Bachelor Brad Womack and Emily). Ben gives Courtney the rose (shocker) and the only thing she seems concerned with is showing off her rose to the other girls. Courtney seems to be much more interested in the competition with the girls than Ben.
Now its time for the cocktail party. The party starts out good with Ben catching up with Lyndzi since he didn't see her all week, but then it turns bad fast. Ben pulls Samantha aside so they can talk but Blakely, who already has a rose this week, steals Ben from Samantha. All the girls are immediately irritated by this and their irritation grows when Blakely tries to steal him AGAIN from another girl. Jenna struggles to find the right words when she is trying to explain herself to Ben and just comes off as really weird. Jenna gets upset and goes upstairs to get in bed and cry (yes I'm serious). Meanwhile, Blakely overhears some girls bad mouthing her and runs upstairs to cry in a corner. Yes ladies that's right, we now have two girls crying upstairs. Ben, our heroic Bachelor, comforts them and pulls the crying girls out of their weep caves because its time for the rose ceremony!
The rose ceremony was pretty straight forward and uneventful minus the fact that every time the camera was on Jenna during the ceremony she looked like she was gonna start sobbing on the spot. Which she did end up doing. She did not receive a rose this week (see full list below) and had an emotional breakdown as she said her goodbyes to The Bachelor cameras.
This was a great episode this week and now our Bachelor is one step closer to finding love! Here's a few things we have to look forward to next week: The girls are going to San Francisco, Brittney has a confession for Ben, someone passes out at the rose ceremony, and the new mystery girl arrives!
Have a great week girls!
IN:
-Casie B.
-Blakely
-Courtney
-Jennifer
-Emily
-Elyse
-Jaclyn
-Erika
-Rachel
-Lyndzi
-Nicki
-Casey S.
-Samantha
-Monica
-Jamie
-Brittney
OUT:
-Shawn
-Jenna
Monday, January 2, 2012
The First Night
Well ladies tonight was the night! After many months of bad TV on Monday nights our show is finally back! And it was a great one!
The show began with a recap of the last season of The Bachelorette when Ben made it to the final 2 and proposed to Ashley Hebert in front of all of America. It reminded me how much I liked Ben and respected him. Ashley had the nerve to let Ben get down on one knee and propose when she knew her heart already belonged to JP. Unlike most previously rejected bachelors, Ben Flajnik didn't let Ashley "sugarcoat" anything and called her out on it.
The beginning of the show was as classic Bachelor as it comes. Ben gave his opening monologue about his new search for love and how his experience with Ashley has changed him for the better. I was very pleased to see The Bachelor producers are still a big fan of the "brooding balcony shot" that played several times during Ben's monologue. It is definitely notable that Ben is looking tan and cuter than ever. We also learn the Ben plays the piano, definitely a plus in an eligible bachelor.
We were greeted by our favorite host/we always hope he's secretly the next bachelor, Chris Harrison. Chris was looking better than ever in a nice black pinstripe suit. Is it just me or does Chris seem to age in reverse? I swear every season he looks more and more handsome. Chris was adorable as always and can never do wrong in our eyes. He's so wise but charming at the same time.
So then we meet the girls. We get to see several bios on some girls. It seems this season has a very eclectic crowd. The first girl, Lindzi C., is a cute girl who rides and loves horses. She seems pretty down to earth and sweet. Then we meet a girl who is tough enough to eat cowballs (Amber T.), a cute southern belle from Tennessee (Kacie B.), a superficial, arrogant model (Courtney), a sweet nurse (Jamie), a daughter of a British diplomat (Lyndsie J.), a Carrie Bradshaw wannabe (Jenna), a mom (Shawn), and a 26 year old divorcee (Nicki). My favorite by far from the bio segment was Jamie. Jamie had no father and a mother who struggled with drug addiction. Jamie worked to gain custody of her younger siblings and lives in a trailer while working hard to support all of them. Jamie seems like a real girl who isn't into all the drama, which is just what Ben needs.
We meet the rest of the girls when they exit the limo to finally meet our bachelor. But before we do, Chris gives one of his great, inspirational pep talks to Ben before he meets the women. (I have a little crush on Chris can't you tell?) Ben says he doesn't regret the experience on The Bachelorette at all because it helped open him up. As we see the introductions some girls immediately stick out as quality and others just annoy us. Intros were filled with cheesy pickup lines ("you're guilty of being sexy" oh come onnn), awkward introductions (Jenna misquoting Ben), a big hat, a pageant sash, and many other interesting ways to catch a man's attention. The most important thing that happened during intros was this season's FIRST KISS. That's right girls. The FIRST KISS happened on the very first night! The lucky girl who got to test our cute Bachelor's lips was Emily, a student studying for her PhD in epidemiology. Emily did it in a totally cute, non-awkward way by using her epidemiology skills to teach Ben how to sanitize properly (including his breath!).
My favorite intro of the night had to be Brittney's. Her sweet grandmother Sheryl emerged from the limo and hobbled on crutches to meet Ben. Our bachelor was a little confused by the age of this bachelorette but he soon found out she was a sweet way to catch his attention. Sheryl introduced her granddaughter Brittney to Ben and hobbled inside to leave them alone. Jennifer, an accountant, gave a list of numbers involved with her life which came off sweet and sincere, and not cheesy in the least. There were many Bachelor firsts tonight and here is one of them: Anna walked straight by Ben inside the door without saying anything to him. A little risky I must say but it worked, she definitely got his attention for at least a minute. Lyndsie J. wrote a poem for Ben and dorkily recited it to him. The showstopper introduction and another Bachelor first belonged to Lyndzi C. Instead of using the usual limousine to make her entrance, Lyndzi C. rode in on a horse. Usually its Prince Charming, not Princess, who rides in on a white horse, but I think in this case it could still apply. Lyndzi C.'s entrance was definitely a winner because later in the night she received the first rose of the season! The ever worshipped first impression rose!
As the cocktail party begins inside, Ben talks with girls individually and begins the "get to know you" conversations. We learned that Rachel, a fashion sales rep from NYC, left her job for the show, adding some pressure on Ben. He seems to have a good conversation and some chemistry with Lindzi C. Other girls do unique things to catch Ben's eye. Shawn plays soccer with him, Casie B. teaches him how to line dance, Emily does a cute rap, Elyse (a personal trainer) makes him do push ups, and Dianna blindfolds Ben making him guess what kind of candy he's eating.
But with every gathering of more than 2 girls, drama is created. Monica admits to our Carrie Bradshaw wannabe Jenna that she doesn't feel anything for Ben, but still wants to stay on the show. Jenna immediately begins have a meltdown because Monica is obviously there for the wrong reasons. Monica is obviously the Wes type, only on the show to become famous and put on a show for the cameras. Monica then adds to the drama by getting drunk and flirting with Blakely. Yes you read that correctly, a possible lesbian among the bachelorettes. This is yet another Bachelor first, but it was bound to happen sometime. Jenna gets even more emotional because of the way Monica is acting. She ends up locking herself in the bathroom and having a full blown sobfest. The first night and we already have a girl weeping in the bathroom. This season is definitely going to be a killer drama filled one to say the least. Jenna proceeds to make Ben uncomfortable by crying to him about the situation. Poor Ben takes it like a champ.
After all the drama and tears, its time for the first rose ceremony! Ben makes some good picks but of course he makes some bad (for the full list see below). He keeps Monica and Jenna, both of the drama instigators. But what fun would The Bachelor be without a little drama? Chris Harrison makes his favorite appearance to remind Ben that "there is only one rose left to give out tonight." Ben knows this, the girls know this, us girls at home know this, so why do they do it? I think The Bachelor producers like to intensify the drama. I also think they like to give us another glimpse of the cutie that runs the show. After Ben makes his picks, he toasts the ladies to the great journey that is ahead of them.
Then comes our FAVORITE part of the entire show. Five words. This season on The Bachelor.
We get a preview of the all the drama in the coming weeks and it makes us so excited we think we're going to die before the next Monday arrives. Tonight's preview was filled with some Bachelor favorites: helicopters, hot tubs, fireworks, private concerts, lots of tears and smeared mascara, and LOTS of kissing. The biggest shock was that a mystery bachelorette will be joining the rest of the girls! We don't know who she is. She could be a girl from Ben's past or a total rando! The question is can they even do that? Bring in another girl later in the game?! Sadly, we'll have to find out the answers to these questions in the coming weeks (ugh I know how will we make it!). They packed so much drama into such a small amount of time. Ben appears to be skinny dipping in the ocean with model Courtney. Another Bachelor first. One girl passes out during a rose ceremony. And it appears that our Bachelor may end this entire journey brokenhearted! It seems that one of the final 2 bachelorettes may change her mind at the final rose ceremony. Unfortunately, that wonderful little preview is all we're going to get for now! Let's hope this week speeds on by!
ROSE CEREMONY
IN:
-Lindzi C. (first impression rose)
-Jamie
-Rachel
-Blakely
-Emily
-Casie B.
-Casey S.
-Brittney
-Erika
-Shawn
-Nicki
-Jennifer
-Elyse
-Samantha
-Courtney
-Jaclyn
-Monica
-Jenna
OUT:
-Amber B.
-Lyndsie J.
-Amber T.
-Dianna
-Anna
-Shira
-Holly
The show began with a recap of the last season of The Bachelorette when Ben made it to the final 2 and proposed to Ashley Hebert in front of all of America. It reminded me how much I liked Ben and respected him. Ashley had the nerve to let Ben get down on one knee and propose when she knew her heart already belonged to JP. Unlike most previously rejected bachelors, Ben Flajnik didn't let Ashley "sugarcoat" anything and called her out on it.
The beginning of the show was as classic Bachelor as it comes. Ben gave his opening monologue about his new search for love and how his experience with Ashley has changed him for the better. I was very pleased to see The Bachelor producers are still a big fan of the "brooding balcony shot" that played several times during Ben's monologue. It is definitely notable that Ben is looking tan and cuter than ever. We also learn the Ben plays the piano, definitely a plus in an eligible bachelor.
We were greeted by our favorite host/we always hope he's secretly the next bachelor, Chris Harrison. Chris was looking better than ever in a nice black pinstripe suit. Is it just me or does Chris seem to age in reverse? I swear every season he looks more and more handsome. Chris was adorable as always and can never do wrong in our eyes. He's so wise but charming at the same time.
So then we meet the girls. We get to see several bios on some girls. It seems this season has a very eclectic crowd. The first girl, Lindzi C., is a cute girl who rides and loves horses. She seems pretty down to earth and sweet. Then we meet a girl who is tough enough to eat cowballs (Amber T.), a cute southern belle from Tennessee (Kacie B.), a superficial, arrogant model (Courtney), a sweet nurse (Jamie), a daughter of a British diplomat (Lyndsie J.), a Carrie Bradshaw wannabe (Jenna), a mom (Shawn), and a 26 year old divorcee (Nicki). My favorite by far from the bio segment was Jamie. Jamie had no father and a mother who struggled with drug addiction. Jamie worked to gain custody of her younger siblings and lives in a trailer while working hard to support all of them. Jamie seems like a real girl who isn't into all the drama, which is just what Ben needs.
We meet the rest of the girls when they exit the limo to finally meet our bachelor. But before we do, Chris gives one of his great, inspirational pep talks to Ben before he meets the women. (I have a little crush on Chris can't you tell?) Ben says he doesn't regret the experience on The Bachelorette at all because it helped open him up. As we see the introductions some girls immediately stick out as quality and others just annoy us. Intros were filled with cheesy pickup lines ("you're guilty of being sexy" oh come onnn), awkward introductions (Jenna misquoting Ben), a big hat, a pageant sash, and many other interesting ways to catch a man's attention. The most important thing that happened during intros was this season's FIRST KISS. That's right girls. The FIRST KISS happened on the very first night! The lucky girl who got to test our cute Bachelor's lips was Emily, a student studying for her PhD in epidemiology. Emily did it in a totally cute, non-awkward way by using her epidemiology skills to teach Ben how to sanitize properly (including his breath!).
My favorite intro of the night had to be Brittney's. Her sweet grandmother Sheryl emerged from the limo and hobbled on crutches to meet Ben. Our bachelor was a little confused by the age of this bachelorette but he soon found out she was a sweet way to catch his attention. Sheryl introduced her granddaughter Brittney to Ben and hobbled inside to leave them alone. Jennifer, an accountant, gave a list of numbers involved with her life which came off sweet and sincere, and not cheesy in the least. There were many Bachelor firsts tonight and here is one of them: Anna walked straight by Ben inside the door without saying anything to him. A little risky I must say but it worked, she definitely got his attention for at least a minute. Lyndsie J. wrote a poem for Ben and dorkily recited it to him. The showstopper introduction and another Bachelor first belonged to Lyndzi C. Instead of using the usual limousine to make her entrance, Lyndzi C. rode in on a horse. Usually its Prince Charming, not Princess, who rides in on a white horse, but I think in this case it could still apply. Lyndzi C.'s entrance was definitely a winner because later in the night she received the first rose of the season! The ever worshipped first impression rose!
As the cocktail party begins inside, Ben talks with girls individually and begins the "get to know you" conversations. We learned that Rachel, a fashion sales rep from NYC, left her job for the show, adding some pressure on Ben. He seems to have a good conversation and some chemistry with Lindzi C. Other girls do unique things to catch Ben's eye. Shawn plays soccer with him, Casie B. teaches him how to line dance, Emily does a cute rap, Elyse (a personal trainer) makes him do push ups, and Dianna blindfolds Ben making him guess what kind of candy he's eating.
But with every gathering of more than 2 girls, drama is created. Monica admits to our Carrie Bradshaw wannabe Jenna that she doesn't feel anything for Ben, but still wants to stay on the show. Jenna immediately begins have a meltdown because Monica is obviously there for the wrong reasons. Monica is obviously the Wes type, only on the show to become famous and put on a show for the cameras. Monica then adds to the drama by getting drunk and flirting with Blakely. Yes you read that correctly, a possible lesbian among the bachelorettes. This is yet another Bachelor first, but it was bound to happen sometime. Jenna gets even more emotional because of the way Monica is acting. She ends up locking herself in the bathroom and having a full blown sobfest. The first night and we already have a girl weeping in the bathroom. This season is definitely going to be a killer drama filled one to say the least. Jenna proceeds to make Ben uncomfortable by crying to him about the situation. Poor Ben takes it like a champ.
After all the drama and tears, its time for the first rose ceremony! Ben makes some good picks but of course he makes some bad (for the full list see below). He keeps Monica and Jenna, both of the drama instigators. But what fun would The Bachelor be without a little drama? Chris Harrison makes his favorite appearance to remind Ben that "there is only one rose left to give out tonight." Ben knows this, the girls know this, us girls at home know this, so why do they do it? I think The Bachelor producers like to intensify the drama. I also think they like to give us another glimpse of the cutie that runs the show. After Ben makes his picks, he toasts the ladies to the great journey that is ahead of them.
Then comes our FAVORITE part of the entire show. Five words. This season on The Bachelor.
We get a preview of the all the drama in the coming weeks and it makes us so excited we think we're going to die before the next Monday arrives. Tonight's preview was filled with some Bachelor favorites: helicopters, hot tubs, fireworks, private concerts, lots of tears and smeared mascara, and LOTS of kissing. The biggest shock was that a mystery bachelorette will be joining the rest of the girls! We don't know who she is. She could be a girl from Ben's past or a total rando! The question is can they even do that? Bring in another girl later in the game?! Sadly, we'll have to find out the answers to these questions in the coming weeks (ugh I know how will we make it!). They packed so much drama into such a small amount of time. Ben appears to be skinny dipping in the ocean with model Courtney. Another Bachelor first. One girl passes out during a rose ceremony. And it appears that our Bachelor may end this entire journey brokenhearted! It seems that one of the final 2 bachelorettes may change her mind at the final rose ceremony. Unfortunately, that wonderful little preview is all we're going to get for now! Let's hope this week speeds on by!
ROSE CEREMONY
IN:
-Lindzi C. (first impression rose)
-Jamie
-Rachel
-Blakely
-Emily
-Casie B.
-Casey S.
-Brittney
-Erika
-Shawn
-Nicki
-Jennifer
-Elyse
-Samantha
-Courtney
-Jaclyn
-Monica
-Jenna
OUT:
-Amber B.
-Lyndsie J.
-Amber T.
-Dianna
-Anna
-Shira
-Holly
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