Desiree Hartsock's Bachelorette 9 Blogs - Discussion

The Bachelorette's Desiree Hartsock Blogs About Her First Rose Ceremony

Driving up the windy road in Malibu to where I would be starting a new chapter as The Bachelorette, I had no idea what to expect. When Chris Harrison showed me my new home, I was awed by the enchanting view of the ocean. I find solace and peace at the beach, so having such an amazing view of it made me feel right at home and ready to begin this journey.

Never in a million years did I think I would have an opportunity to meet 25 eligible bachelors in the hopes of finding love, so I was more than excited to get that first night started! As I stood in front of the Bachelor mansion in my shiny silver dress, I was filled with hope and eagerness to see what kind of men would come strutting out of those limos. I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous, but I had been in their shoes before and knew that they would be even more nervous than I could possibly be. The thought of grown men shaking in their suits with sweaty palms made me empathize with them and I wanted to make them feel comfortable.

One by one, I was blown away by the quality of men that I was being introduced to and the creativity they were showing. I wanted to make an impression on Sean the first night I met him by making a wish in the fountain, so I really enjoyed Michael's entrance by fishing for those coins I tossed in last season so we could make new wishes. I love a man who can make me laugh, so another entrance that was witty and fun was Chris getting down on one knee to then only wipe sweat from his brow and tie his shoe. Way to scare me and trick me all at the same time!

The most memorable entrances that night came from someone who forgot a piece of clothing, and another who had too many layers on. As Zak W. walked out of that limo without his shirt on and abs of steel blazing, I couldn't help myself but to giggle like a schoolgirl. Of all things, I was not expecting someone to greet me practically naked. I could tell right away that it was meant as a joke and I liked that he didn't take himself too seriously. Talking about steel, Diogo came out as a full-on knight in shining armor, but could hardly move in the get-up. I had to direct him on where to stand because he could barely see out of his helmet! It was a bold move and he was sweet for going all out to impress me. Unfortunately, I didn't feel a romantic connection with him, but I appreciated the effort he put into it.

Best Impressions

The biggest impression of the night was Ben bringing his 3-year-old son Brody with him. It melted my heart seeing his little boy come out of the limo first to hand me a flower that he picked. It was adorable to say the least and Ben was so sweet and charming. It meant a lot for me to know he has a son and for that not to be kept a secret. After my conversation with Ben, I realized that we had a lot in common with our interests and our values so I knew I wanted to get to know him better and hand him the first rose.

I remember Tierra getting the first rose last season and what a negative impression that left on the rest of us. I didn't want Ben getting the first rose to have the same effect, so I handed out a few more right after him. Little did I know the men were still envious and stressing out about the roses. I guess women and men may be more similar than we think!

I didn't want to limit the impressions to only one rose handout, so I decided to stay in the moment and hand them out as I got to know each guy. I was amazed by all of the interesting and intriguing men, and it made it difficult to know whom I wanted to give first impression roses to! If it went by conversation alone I could have handed out a dozen more, but I wanted to keep some for the rose ceremony.

I actually dared Zak W. to cannonball into the pool never thinking that he would actually do it. He showed how spontaneous he could be and that was very deserving of a rose. I just didn't know where to put it! Another highlight of the night was talking with Juan Pablo and breaking up the monotony of conversation with a nighttime game of soccer. I loved that everyone came out to join in. It truly made and unbelievable night even more special and fun!

Although I politely turned down Jonathon's offer to go to the "fantasy suite" during his entrance, he continued to interrupt my conversations with other men to try and lure me into a private room. His persistence made me feel very uncomfortable and his behavior was not of someone I would want to date, so I knew I had to send him home before the rose ceremony. Regardless of his intoxication level, no man should ever think a girl is only worth a dark, private room.

Adrenaline Rush

The great conversations and unique personalities kept my adrenaline going all night, so before I knew it the rose ceremony began and the fate of these men were now in the roses I was holding. It was hard to make the decisions, and hard to know that sweet, incredible men would be leaving, but I felt confident in the men who got roses. I felt like the luckiest girl in the world as I looked around at the 19 gorgeous men that were left, and I felt ready to get the dates started!

I am SO excited to have you all share in my journey and hope that you will tune in for some extraordinary dates next week. These upcoming dates set the tone for the entire season – they're filled with adventure, fun, road trips, romance, iconic sites and even a rap video. You don't want to miss out on these men in costume rapping their hearts out for the "right reasons." And as you saw at the end of the show, there are men along the way that are definitely NOT here for the right reasons.

Thanks for watching and for reading my Bachelorette blog!
– Xoxo Desiree

The Bachelorette: Desiree Hartsock Blogs About Her First Dates
The Bachelorette: Desiree Hartsock's Blog About First Dates, Early Drama
Former Bachelor contestant Desiree Hartsock is calling the shots and handing out the roses as the current star of The Bachelorette. The bridal stylist will blog all season long on PEOPLE.com about her dates, the guys and the difficult decisions she must make. You can also follow Desiree on Twitter.

After a wonderful first night meeting the men on The Bachelorette, I was extremely anxious and excited to see what kind of connections I could form. I had great conversations with almost everyone and although it was a little overwhelming, I felt good about picking the guys for my first dates. After seeing the men in their suits, I was most looking forward to seeing them in casual clothes to get a better idea of who they are

I had butterflies walking into the mansion to pick Brooks up for our date. It was the start of an incredible new chapter of my life.

For that first date, I wanted someone who could be spontaneous and turn a seemingly awkward activity into fun and laughter. Brooks was the perfect choice. At first I was nervous about bringing him to a bridal salon because men don't typically know what to do around beautiful white dresses, but bridal design is my passion so it was important for me to share that. Thankfully Brooks didn't freak out. He took charge and made trying on suits and dresses hilarious and memorable, which is what I'm looking for – someone who can just let loose.

Looking into the mirror together as a couple, dressed as newlyweds, reminded me why I chose to be the Bachelorette and made me hopeful for what could be. I got genuinely excited! The best part about the car ride to the Hollywood sign with Brooks was our engaging and fun conversation. The natural banter and comfort we had continued and made the date so special. For me, the Hollywood sign represents everyone (including myself) who comes to Los Angeles to pursue their dreams, so the opportunity to sit on top of it carried a personal significance that meant so much to me.

At dinner that night, Brooks shared details of his life that are not easy to talk about. His openness allowed me to trust him and share my own life story. The setting was gorgeous on top of that bridge, but the greatest thing about the date was that we were able to get lost in conversation and truly be in the moment. We weren't focused on anything else. Dancing in the moonlight to Andy Grammar was the cherry on top. I was the happiest person alive after a successful first date and that geared me up for the dates to follow.

That's a Rap

Who would think making a rap video with 14 guys would be so much fun and hilarious? The point of this group date was to see who could let loose and not be afraid to make fun of themselves. It was hard to give everyone the attention I wanted to, but I found ways to make conversation throughout the day. I was having a blast changing into the different outfits for the scenes and watching the guys learn dance moves with Soulja Boy. There were some uncomfortable scenes leaving nothing to the imagination – if you know what I mean – but overall I felt comfortable with the guys.

I was able to learn more about each guy that night at the cocktail party. I have never received a gift like the one Zak W. gave to me. I enjoy writing and have had a journal since I was 8 years old, so his thoughtful gift left me speechless and interested to learn more about the first night's "shirtless man."

It was really tough for me to decide who to give the rose to. I had a great conversation with Ben where we shared stories about our childhood and our interests so I felt I had more invested in him. But I didn't realize how giving it to him would affect the others. I feel for Sean Lowe a lot more now knowing how difficult it is to hand out roses on group dates.

First Kiss

I was on a natural high after two dates and wanted to keep that joy alive on my date with Bryden. I love road trips – they're the best way to get to know someone you are dating. I have discovered red flags with exes while on road trips so I was interested to see how Bryden would be. He is very easygoing and also a little mysterious, which drew me in that first night. I knew he was from Montana and had never been to California before, so it was special to explore the Pacific coast and experience new sights.

Neither one of us knew how the kite worked on the beach. That broke the ice because every time the kite wouldn't work we would burst into laughter. We played in the waves, rocks and sand like two little kids. It was the most fun I have had at the beach in a long time. Bryden showed that he could go with the flow and make the most of everything, which I really liked.

I was excited to sit down at dinner and learn more about him. I could not believe the story of his horrible accident and how he made it through alive with such perseverance while learning a valuable life lesson – not to take life for granted. His decision to follow his passion and join the National Guard is admirable. While looking at the pictures of his accident and hearing what is was like to be hospitalized, all I wanted to do was take care of him. There was A LOT of build up for that first kiss – and I'm glad the night ended on a solid note.

Early Drama

I have been waiting for these episodes to start airing not only for the stories to unfold for viewers, but also so I can get a better glimpse into the drama that started to build amongst the men in the house. For this first week, I put my focus solely into conversations with the men and not on the tension. I didn't even think there would be drama this early on. As I'm sure you know, I only see what happens right in front of me, so I'm just as curious as all of you to watch it unfold.

There is so much that goes into these relationships and emotions that you see on the screen, so I hope this blog can give you a better idea of the feelings that are forming in front of your eyes.

Oh, one more thing, next week's events are unlike anything you've ever seen before. I always fear that someone isn't here for the right reasons – fortunately this liar gets caught. There is unbelievable confrontation, men playing rough, and sexy cowboys.

Thank you so much for watching and reading my Bachelorette blog.

– Xoxo Desiree

luvstx wrote:I had butterflies walking into the mansion to pick Brooks up for our date. It was the start of an incredible new chapter of my life.

It's a wrap. She has skillfully sent a shout out to the love of her life. So sweet!

luvstx wrote:I had butterflies walking into the mansion to pick Brooks up for our date. It was the start of an incredible new chapter of my life.

It's a wrap. She has skillfully sent a shout out to the love of her life. So sweet!

nd4reality wrote:The leads blogs are one of the clearest indications of who they pick. But for Brad 2.0 it was the blogs that nixed a chantal ending. This one just screams the ending - perhaps being spoiled is swaying this opinion.
Anyone think otherwise ?

atem wrote:

nd4reality wrote:The leads blogs are one of the clearest indications of who they pick. But for Brad 2.0 it was the blogs that nixed a chantal ending. This one just screams the ending - perhaps being spoiled is swaying this opinion.
Anyone think otherwise ?

I am too biased. I just want Desiree happy and get married!