So, was I the only one who had a hard time keeping track of when the judges were in Puerto Rico and when they were in NYC? Seriously. And only 9 total tickets from PR? I’m thinking they won’t be racing to do that again next season. Still, thank you producers for listening and just cramming a few cities into one show and FINALLY being done with it.

Overall, it was a decent episode, with lots of feelgood stuff (how adorable was that little brother anyway?) and marginally entertaining side show stuff. Not too shabby. And it’s finally Hollywood time, all done with crappy singers (except the ones they put through) and on to the actual competition. Yay!

Any early favorites? (Of the less than 30% we’ve been allowed to see? I know.)

And I actually liked Simon last night. Not just because he called the boss, but he seemed genuinely invested in the process and was more or less human. I generally agree with his assessments anyway, just not with the way he chooses to deliver them, but last night was okay.

Alright, on to Top Chef: Season 5 Meets the All Stars from seasons past. First….really All Stars? What stars? Where? Miguel? Camille? Who signed up these people? Of course Season 5 won, but maybe that’s why the low end “All Stars” - to ensure this season actually came off looking like they could cook. And they barely pulled that off.

Yes, I know everyone will argue that Fabio should have gone home. Don’t care. Jeff, who I liked, too, was given a million and one chances to learn to self edit and didn’t, and also argued with the judges instead of letting Fabio hang himself. And isn’t as remotely entertaining as Fabio (Bunky bed? Ha! Monkey ass stuffed with fried banana? Ha squared!)so I’m glad he got the second chance…but also glad he acknowledged that to the judges. So, come on Fabio! Get with the program. Every week he has great concepts and almost great execution, but always blows it with one ingredient. Here’s hoping that trend changes.

I thoroughly enjoyed horndog Stephan being forced to admit he’s a douchebag (his word) and losing to Andrea. Very entertaining. Cannot wait to get Leah off my screen. Hosea-two-timing-hoser aside, does it drive anyone but me nuts that she consistently has this lazy speech and demeanor and kind of “wellllll……I dunno. I kinda just did this….” deep sigh and forlorn look while she slouches there. Seriously. Kick her off. That Jeff left before her grates.

Loved Carla’s win! Ba-dow, indeed! She’s also entertaining as all get out and has totally grown on my throughout the season. Won’t win, but love her attitude. Quick love. We’ll take it.

Next week looks a little grim. Perhaps they should consider giving them time to actually, oh, I don’t know…cook something. Fast food, indeed, Fabio. It’s not cooking…it’s rushing.

Okay…so now on to this week’s Blog Candy winner. Whole lotta entries this week - thanks for all the kind props on the new, upcoming release! The blog babe winner of an advance copy is? Lisa M! Woo hoo!!! Email me your address and your “candy” will be in the mail.

More candy coming next week (and Big Candy coming Valentine’s Week, so stay tuned!) Along with some Hollywood MAC (Morning After Commentary, for those who asked…not MAC n Cheese, although sometimes….) and more Top Chef. A few short weeks away from Amazing Race, Survivor, and Dancing With the Stars, which means winter is almost over and spring is around the corner. Yay! Longer days! Warmer weather!

Tags: Writing //