This may be the best first dates of any season I can remember in recent Bachelor history. And I’m not just talking about the chemistry between Juan Pablo and the girls. The actual dates themselves were original, exciting and looked like something I’d want to do.
Let’s start with Winter Wonderland date. Clare (who reminds me more and more of Trista Sutter, the original Bachelorette), was absolutely adorable in her giddiness for Juan Pablo. Actually all of the girls seem quite smitten with him. Their date was spectacular – romantic, fun, and allowing for the right amount of deep conversation a la hot tub. You can tell Clare was falling in love within seconds. Once she started melting her ice queen former self and broke out the “Dad” card, I knew she was in it to win it. And who can blame her – did you see how Juan Pablo looked at her and kissed her. The man has skills.
Loved that they got to go sledding, ice skating and hot tubbing all in a snowy forest. Not a bad effect for it to start snowing while getting their own private concert. What better way to snuggle up together than in wet bathing suits? Love is blooming for Clare, and I hope it continues because as we all know, whoever gets the first date NEVER comes out on top. Maybe Clare can be an exception.
I thought nothing could top Date 1, but then adorable, dimpled Kat gets taken to Salt Lake City for what I at first thought was a drugged out rave, but turns out it’s a 5K electric dance party at night??! Who knew such a thing existed? I guess thousands of Utah residents. What a unique date. Given, it didn’t seem like Kat and JP got much intimate talk time, but who cares? First dates are about feeling the chemistry, and they definitely had it.
It’s almost like the show hired a whole new crop of date planners to get some fresh ideas. No jumping off of bridges and buildings (though that’ll probably come next week). These dates were a thousand times better than wrestling, roller derby and all the other insane ideas that have been in season’s past.
Even the photo / charity shoot was unique because it involved the element of DOGGIES!!! What a great idea. I would have been in heaven. I’ve got to get my dog, Wally, to meet Molly, btw. They’d totally hit it off. So glad that Juan Pablo did not delay sending home Veronica. She’s an emotional and physical nightmare. This is one of the first times where the audience is aware of a CRAZY in the bunch and The Bachelor actually discovers it AND does something about it right away. Bonus points again to JP – he’s smart.
Some new bright stars emerged tonight:
(1) Cassandra – we knew she was beautiful, but I worried that her being 21 was too young. It’s probably still too young for a 32 year old, BUT, she’s got a 2 year old son which means she’s a single mom and automatically launched into a different lifestyle than other 21 year olds. Plus Juan Pablo certainly has a crush on her. Was glad to see a normal reaction of a mom separated from her small child. I like this girl.
(2) Kat. I loved her spontaneity at the 5K Dance Electric date and she’s a great dancer, which Juan Pablo digs. We don’t know much about her except that she’s kind of flirtatious, is exceptionally pretty and has the cutest dimple ever.
(3) Renee. She’s become the group therapist. I see her slipping into the friend zone, especially after the non-kissing of JP.
Still loving Nikki (though I hope she doesn’t get caught up in all the female drama going on. She seems a lot more attractive when focused on her pediatric nursing). Andi was great too – I liked her honesty and willingness to wear only a sign at the photo shoot. Elise was not quite as brave, but luckily, Lucy likes to be naked (can’t she get arrested for walking down the street nude??). Kelly was quite scary looking in her photo shoot make up, but she was a great sport. I wouldn’t have picked her out from the crowd, but appreciate that she’s a dog lover.
Was relieved that Cristy got the final rose this week. We haven’t seen much from her, but she’s so pretty and I really hope we get to know her better.
One thing is for certain – Juan Pablo’s charisma is off the charts. He knows how to make each woman feel appreciated and excited about being with him. He looks them directly in the eye, which is a great quality (it’s so intimidating, even Sharleen became shy – thankful she apologized for her reaction to receiving the first impression rose).
Amy Long seemed very sweet, but Juan Pablo needs a bit of a chase. Never saw any chemistry between JP and Chantel, but was sad to see our token African American leave so early on.
Can’t wait to hear all your thoughts on this week’s dates. What a great episode it was! Hope this momentum keeps building.
