We’re so close to the end! This week we had hometowns (and no rose ceremony), which included a lot of heartwarming and fun moments! Let’s get to them.

Us too, Nick

My Takeaways

In my opinion, we started the week with the most successful home town date, which was an interesting choice by producers. I guess it was low drama so best to get the normal date out first. From the beginning, Raven and Nick’s chemistry was out of control. That make out in the rice field was HOT!

I was genuinely moved by Raven’s dad telling her about his clean bill of health. I know first hand what its like when one of your parents is battling serious health issues, and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. You can tell that this is a tight family, and Raven is looking for a love like her parents’. Nick got the stamp of approval, but was Raven’s dad worried about a shotgun wedding?

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During her hometown date in Dallas, Rachel takes Nick to her church. I loved how welcoming all of the congregation seemed towards Nick, especially the lady who tapped him on the shoulder while the minister was addressing him.

‘Hey, he’s talking about you’

At home, I think America was collectively disappointed that Nick didn’t get to meet Mr. Lindsay and accidentally call him Sam to his face. We did get to meet Rachel’s mom and sisters, and talk a lot about the fact that Nick and Rachel are an interracial couple. I understand that this is a serious issue, but I hope that Rachel’s entire season isn’t spent discussing interracial relationships in America. As far as I’m concerned, love is love.

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Corinne’s hometown date actually made me like her – kinda. I’m starting to see why Nick has been keeping her around – who wouldn’t want to spend time with that friend who is willing to throw down her credit card for a $3,000 shopping spree. I’m kidding (a little), it is evident that Corinne really does like Nick and he enjoys having fun with her. I don’t see them having a sustainable grown up relationship, but I don’t think Corinne is quite as diabolical as I did at the beginning of the season.

Finally, we are graced with the infamous Racquel’s presence. It was really heartwarming to see how excited Racquel was to see Corinne, and I do think Corinne sees her as a member of the family. As exciting as it was to meet Racquel, the real star of this date was Corinne’s dad, who we never see without a drink in his hand.

I thought it was an interesting look into post-Bachelor life when Corinne’s dad asked her what Nick did for a job and she said, “he was a software salesman.” I don’t think Nick has been a software salesman since he was on Andi’s season. Corinne’s dad is very concerned that Nick won’t be able to support his daughter’s lifestyle on Instagram ads and paid appearances.

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I think Vanessa wins for best “date” portion of the hometown dates as she takes Nick to meet her students. You could really tell how much she means to them. It was a real ‘I’m not crying you’re crying’ moment when a few of her students started to tear up.

Vanessa’s parents aren’t together, so Nick gets to meet both parents separately. Vanessa’s family seems very hung up on what will happen to this relationship once it enters the real world. Where will they  live aka Nick will you move to Canada because Vanessa is not allowed to leave? While in the actual real world I don’t think anyone should be forced to move unless they are absolutely certain and ready, Bachelor world is not the real world. Of course Vanessa will move to L.A. to be with Nick, and perhaps to sit in the audience while he competes on Dancing With the Stars. (I think Kaitlyn is the only lead in recent memory to move for their fiancé).

Vanessa’s dad is having none of Nick’s attempts to charm. He continuously questions Nick on whether he is serious about his daughter because there are still 3 other girls in the process. When Nick asks Vanessa’s dad for her hand in marriage, he scoffs at the request. He can’t give his blessing (happily) when Nick also asked three other dads the same question.

The rose ceremony will be back in New York City, and all the women are nervous. Not as nervous as Nick is though, when he opens his hotel room door to see ex-lover Andi Dorfman standing there.

Best Tweets

When #TheBachelor brings up "tonight's rose ceremony" with 3 minutes left in the episode. https://t.co/ClwTCFSFea

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Bach Bracket (@bachbrack) February 21, 2017

How are they not having cheese pasta right now? #TheBachelor

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Princess Problems (@PrincessProbz) February 21, 2017

Rachel's family: "Nick, do you know what these items on your plate are?" Nick: "Yes? I do eat food from time to time." #TheBachelor

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Bachelor Burn Book (@bachelorburnbk) February 21, 2017

Best Dressed

I loved the camisole Raven wore to her hometown date. I’m pretty sure it was the Zoe by CamiNYC, and I can’t find it in stock anywhere. You can find a similar top here (same designer) and more similar camisoles here and here (lower price point!).

I also really liked Vanessa’s hometown outfit. The lace-up of the top adds some sexiness, but the fur vest makes it acceptable for that Canada weather. I found some similar lace-up tops here and here, and (faux)fur vests here and here!

I think Raven is my favorite going into the rose ceremony (besides Rach, obviously), although Vanessa is equally impressive. There is just a fun side of Raven that I like that I haven’t really seen in Vanessa Who do you guys think is going to take home Nick’s final rose? Let me know in the comments!

xo
Em