Some Initial Thoughts on Tonight's Episode

Maybe I'm alone here, but I was super excited to welcome Shawntel back into the picture. Yes, they painted her as the overconfident ("I'm sure Ben and I feel the same way about each other") dark horse coming in to steal Ben, but I welcome it.  Shawntel is smart, beautiful and very down to earth.  And yes, the entire thing with Ben seemed completely staged, but I have loved Shawntel since the Brad days, and could definitely see her with Ben.  The only question is whether she'd be able to bury people in his wine fields.

I agree with Shawntel that it shouldn't be about "fairness."  It should be about whether Ben could picture himself with Shawntel. If the answer is "definitely not," then fine.  But if he's remotely interested in her, put her in the line up.  He probably was not.  It was kind of fun to see the girls squirm a bit.  Particularly, Model girl.  As if Courtney is really going to go home.  She's bluffing.  Emily, Lindzi, Kacie B, Rachel, Jennifer and Nicki are already in love - they're not going anywhere. And does he really care about Jaclyn?  Good riddance.

I loved the dates tonight - the San Fran adrenaline date was "amazing" and Emily went straight to #1 on my list for Ben. I like her.  That said, I would never climb up a bridge for anyone.  Luckily The Husband has no interest in these sort of moronic adventures.  As for the rest, I like Jennifer too.  Lindzi is way more into him than he is into her.  Once Ben started referring to Kacie B as "sweet," we know this is a major blow to her rankings.  Whisking away Courtney to the same spot where JFK cheated on his wife may seem like a major bonus for the model, but I'm not sure anyone else sees it this way.  Plus her evilness is on the verge of being displayed for Ben.  Her true colors have to come flying out at any moment.

The group ski date was great - very creative way of showing the women in their bikinis during the day time.  No idea why Brittney got a one on one - surprised she has made it this far.  The question is whether that band that was playing was Brittney's favorite and if Lindzi would even care if it was.

Still loving Ben.  Kind of bummed that Shawntel has left us as soon as she came, particularly in tears.  Not to worry, Shawny - you can try it with him again - if not before the season's end (how awesome would it be if Ben chases down Shawntel during a funeral in the finale??), then after he breaks up with the last lady standing.  Only ladies who stand a chance with Ben at this point: Emily, Kacie B, Jennifer, Jamie (please?) and Lindzi.

I'm terrified of Courtney.

Full post will be up tomorrow night.  Let's hear your thoughts...