I was so excited to see my all-time favorite Amazing Race team, John Vito & Jill, again. Sadly, they were Philiminated in tonight's first episode. John Vito & Jill have many excellent qualities, but a sense of direction isn't one of them. Therefore, it wasn't really a huge surprise that they got lost on the way to a national park in Ecuador.

In a completely non-shocking development, Rob & Amber finished tonight's leg in first place. In a somewhat more shocking development, they were actually shown doing a good deed on camera when they made sure their airport parking lot shuttle stopped to pick up Danny & Oswald.

Speaking of Cha Cha Cha, they ran a flawless leg to finish second. More importantly, they were still their charming selves. What darlings. While I knew I'd root for the Cha, I surprised myself by also rooting for Teri & Ian. I don't know how it happened, but I'm now a firm supporter of Team Asshat. I even find his "Hooyas" adorable. What's wrong with me?

Other notable moments from the premiere:

• Charla beat one of the Frats in a footrace. I dislike her team, but "ha ha!"
• Nice use of the Miami Vice soundtrack during the opening while teams arrived via speedboat
• As always, animal hijinks are appreciated. Tonight's Detour task was a bit too sad, however. How can horse's hooves get so long? Poor things.

It's funny how little some of the teams have changed. David & Mary are still too helpful for their own good. The Guidos are still over confident. Most teams still think that speaking Spanish just means adding an "o" to the end of every word. God, I love this show!