Episode Phuket

Episode 4 – Phuket, Thailand:

I really want to go there.  It looks like Cabo San Lucas, but with  monkeys and less white people.

Date with Constantine:

Pretty impressed with Constantine’s go-with-the-flow attitude.  They’re exotic “Forget Paris” style date was canceled on account of boats flipping over and torrential rain falling from clouds. It’s very easy to get derailed and lose your cool when things go awry like they did for him and Ashley.  However he was able to maintain his composure and suggest they do something that normal people might do on a normal date.  Going to a commerce center (like they did) with lots of built in conversation is always a safe and fun date idea.  Constantine’s picking up on the old man’s wedding ring and pumping that topic for conversation (and a life lesson) was a brilliant strategy.  The ability to roll with punches and maintain a fun and positive attitude is very attractive to humans – particularly those with female parts.  This is probably biological and somewhat subconscious; as it conveys that you are reliable and will stick around through thick and thin.  He seems like a cool guy..

A day at the Orphanage

Growing up as a churchgoer, a weeknight youth group attendee, and regular mini-mission feel-good tripper, I can appreciate the allure of the ‘paint the orphanage’ date.  I also believe it’s a self-serving bit to make us believe we’re better humans than we actually are.  It’s a little bit like the movie “City Slickers”, where privileged snobs spend a few days “roughing it” as an escape from their everyday extravagances.  It’s also kind of insulting to people that actually have that life.  Yes, I do believe the orphanage is slightly better off with new paint and some crappy sporting goods. But really - a life altering event?  I’m pretty sure they could have just as easily donated the paint and helped the community in a significantly more productive way.  There are two dentists (Blake and Ashley) in the group!  Think maybe there’s a need for basic dental care?  How about Mr. Solar Power (Ryan)– any applicable use for his knowledge base?  But I digress… way to make a difference ABC. 

Side notes from the group date:

1. You could tell she felt a spark of attraction when she kissed JP.

2. Ryan is obnoxious and deserving of a towel party.

Ames

I had no idea he was that smooth.  No idea.  It was like he stepped on stage and morphed into his alter ego – introspective, confident and witty – ladies man Ames.  I was totally wrong about this guy.  Still needs a new haircut – he reminds me of Dan Aykroyd in “Trading Places”.

Power Rankings next week.