Now, I’m not saying that when I was 24 I wasn’t aware of what I loved or didn’t love about how my parents communicate, or that I didn’t recognize or value being on the same page as the guys I dated. But at 24 I was wrapping up a Masters degree, partying with my friends, considering a move to Europe, in an on-and-off long distance relationship, and in the “off” moments, enjoying dating all sorts of guys. My mind just wasn’t really on finding a husband, much less how we would communicate 10 years into our marriage. But let me be clear: I point out the above as a compliment, not a criticism. I have friends in their 30s who still prioritize superficial things when it comes to dating, not valuing things like communication skills and shared values enough. There’s too much emphasis on attraction and not enough on what makes a good partner. So while a part of me thinks 24 year olds should just chill and only get married if the right person conveniently comes along, I do think if you do want to tie the knot this young, then by all means you should absolutely approach it with Hannah’s longterm mindset. I’m impressed.

Oh, and Word Watch. Hannah: “Tyler just completely cracked open and showed me more of his heart and allowed me into things I think are really hard for him to talk about. But he did that with me a that shows me a lot about the trajectory of our relationship.” 👏🏼👏🏼

Back at the hotel, Mike’s date card arrives. A few things stood out to me here. First, I like Mike but felt his reaction to getting this date card was inconsiderate, bordering on obnoxious. You can get a date card and smile quietly to yourself and express being excited (as Peter did perfectly last week), but out of respect for your fellow housemates, save your celebrating for your ITM. Mike’s ear-to-ear grins, many of which were in an obviously disappointed Connor’s direction, felt not only rude, but almost like the two of them have some sort of beef we were never shown. (I don’t actually know, mind you, but this analysis reflects how over-the-top Mike’s smiles felt to me.) And lest you think Mike’s smiles were taken out of context, note where the guys on his left are looking (in Connor’s direction) when he’s grinning, as well as when Connor leaves the room. Second, note Connor’s Direct-Look-Into-Camera™ as Mike’s name is called and he realizes not only is he not getting another 1-on-1, but he now has to talk about it…