For this week’s episode of “The Bachelor”, Joey spent the week traveling to the four final girls’ hometowns to see where they are from and meet the families. Hometowns can usually be drama-filled, but this season’s familial meetings went smoothly. This is great for Joey and the girls, but a little boring for the viewers. Bachelor nation, grab your wine: it is time to recap hometown week.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Kelsey was first up on the hometown visits, where she introduced Joey to her dad, Mark, her sister, Taylor, and her brother, Matthew. The family introduction was emotional for Kelsey, as she lost her mother a few years ago to cancer. 

The Anderson family was very supportive of both Joey and Kelsey, and their connection appeared to be very strong.

Side note, as I’ve seen mentioned on social media, Kelsey’s dad, Mark, has my vote for the next Golden Bachelor. 

During the visit, Kelsey admits to her father that she thinks she loves Joey, and the visit ended on great terms.

Rancho Cucamonga, California

Next up, Joey headed to the great state of California to see Rachel. Rachel has previously expressed concerns about her family and Joey mixing well, especially due to her families culture and traditions, and this showed through her emotions this episode.

Joey proved those concerns wrong when he charmed Rachel’s family by greeting her mother with a mano po, a Filipino gesture for greeting your elders.

Rachel’s mom and dad both showed hesitation about the relationship, but ultimately wished the couple the best and gave them their blessing.

The visit ends with Rachel crying from emotions and admitting to Joey that she is falling in love with him. 

Becker, Minnesota

Daisy’s hometown visit with Joey began with a trip to her family’s Christmas tree farm, where the couple explored her old stomping grounds. The farm was beautiful and Daisy even got a surprise from her friends. 

During the visit with her friends, Daisy expressed to her friends that Joey has helped heal her fear that she will not find someone who will be with her despite her health issues. I know losing her hearing and her health issues are a big part of her life, but girl, there is so much more to you than that. Don’t sell yourself short. 

Of the four girls remaining, Daisy has been the most held back with her feelings. She has not admitted that she loves Joey, and she has put up a wall out of fear of getting hurt.

Thankfully, receiving her parents’ blessing allowed her to break down that wall and admit her feelings. 

Joey met Daisy’s parents, where they expressed some concern but ultimately gave their support.

Each parent has expressed the fact that there are still three other girls involved and the concern with that. As my mother said while watching, “we all know this, folks.” The girls and their parents knew what they were signing up for. Although I’m sure it’s tough, that’s the whole premise of the show. 

Daisy’s visit ended on a good note, with both Joey and Daisy happy with how it went.

Niagara Falls, New York

Last but certainly not least, Joey headed to Niagara Falls to see Maria and meet her family. Before meeting the family, the couple sat down and discussed their current relationship status and concerns. 

Joey expressed his unease about Maria almost leaving last week and how that was difficult for him. But Maria reassures him she is here to stay.

During conversation, Maria admits that she has never brought someone home to meet her family. Is this a red flag? I would say so. 

During the family meeting, Maria’s father, despite his intimidating vibe, falls to Joey’s charm and gives both Maria and Joey his support. 

Maria admits her feelings to her father and friend, but what about Joey?

Ending the visit, Maria tells Joey she appreciates him being here and that her feelings are growing, but shocks both Joey and the viewers when she doesn’t admit she is falling for him. She freezes, leaving Joey evidently surprised. 

Live reaction, 9:46 p.m.: I predict Rachel will not get a rose. I don’t think her connection with Joey is as strong as the other girls. My mother predicts Maria will be sent home.

From four to three

Satin was the attire theme for this ceremony (although probably not planned). Daisy stunned in a gorgeous red dress, Kelsey rocked an emerald green dress and Rachel went with a black backless dress. Maria went for a purple sparkly gown with a slit, being the only girl not going for the satin look. They all looked fabulous.

At a very emotional rose ceremony, the first rose went to … just kidding! Before he could give out the first rose, Maria asked to talk to Joey privately, where she expressed that she is falling in love with him, as she didn’t offer her true feelings after her hometown visit. 

Daisy received the first rose, with Kelsey receiving rose number two. Both predicted and not surprising. 

The third and final rose, earning a spot in week 8, went to Rachel. Jaw = dropped.

Maria being sent home was not on my predictions list. I think they undoubtedly have a lot of chemistry, and I am very sad to see her go. However, we better be seeing more of Maria. The Bachelorette is calling her name. 

Joey, Daisy, Rachel and Kelsey are headed to Tulum, Mexico, for week 8, where relationships will deepen and the group of three ladies will soon turn into two. Bachelor nation, we are so close to a proposal. 

Kelsie Horner is assistant managing editor. Contact her at [email protected].