Two episodes in, time to take stock.

The sad #1: my second fav team was Philiminated -- in the first leg, nonetheless. Well, I'm too longtime a fan not to see it coming. A potentially very good team with a healthy relationship to boot. Alas, also with such damned bad luck. Curiously, Jill gave this impression that the no-longer couple may be "on a new path that's definitely more than just friends." Whoa, careful there, guys. That IMO is one of the most difficult kinds of relationship to manage. Wish them the best.

The sad #2: Kevin and Drew were just shades of the Amazing Racers that I think it's for the best that they're no longer around. Drew was clearly hurting and out of shape, heart not entirely in the Race. And what's up with that walking away from Phil? I hope that's not what a marriage does to you. Wish them the best as well.

The great #1: Romber finished first in the first leg. Still the functional couple we knew. Still the obnoxious Boston Rob everyone hates. Still the gorgeous Amber I fell in love with in the Australian Outback.

The great #2: Romber finished first in the second leg.

My predictions -- as predicted -- were off. As far as the Philiminations go anyway. I still think the Coal Miner and Wife are on borrowed time, but Teri and Ian surprised me by going reasonably strong, while looking pleasant at the same time. My take: these two and Team Guido saw how they were being portrayed in their respective seasons and are easing it a bit, just enjoying the Race this time around. There go two of everyone's -- I'm using the term loosely, of course -- villain teams.

Having seen how they were being portrayed and yet staying true to their annoying roots are Charla and Mirna. All right, to be fair to Charla, she does seem a tad better than her cousin -- which isn't saying much.

Also going surprisingly strong are the Chas. Well, surprising to me, that is. It's a long season, of course, but as of now, these two are giving Romber a run for their money.

As for the rest of the field, well, Uch and J aren't exactly getting a nice couple edit these two first legs, that's for sure. What's with that look on his face when the wife took the Roadblock? Eric isn't doing too badly, considering Danielle has contributed next to nada so far. I'd like to see a physical task or two where this team will shine. After all, she's the girl with big guns. No, seriously -- go watch her season. Beauty Queens are all right, but they gotta stop that "everyone thinks we're just some dumb blondes and we'll prove them wrong" routine. It's getting old faster than you can say Vanna White.

Allow me to be stubborn still and pick David and Mary as the next to go. I mean, there's only so much a woman who shrills can do, right? Coal miner's wife or not.

In other news, Pacarku tries to hide behind a bowl of... pasta? Hmm...

Current music: Skeelo - I Wish
Current mood: happy