Lovable Orchid Paulmeier, a restaurant owner and mom of three from South Carolina, was an early front-runner in the competition. Many were surprised to see her go home mid-season.
Star Journals
Each finalist was given a Food Network journal upon arrival in L.A. Orchid used hers like a diary, writing an entry for each day in addition to challenge planning notes.
Smile for the Camera
The finalists also received digital cameras to document life behind the scenes. Someone snapped this shot of a smiling Orchid heading to the next challenge.
Pep Talk
"Keep energy up!!" Orchid writes in her journal. She followed her own advice and took home the first Camera Challenge win.
Showing Her Stuff
Alton Brown thought Orchid seemed natural and comfortable on camera as he directed the finalists' first promos.
Dear Diary
Orchid reflected on each day in her journal — some entries are about missing home and her kids, others shed light on the challenges.
A Contender
Jeff's and Orchid's strong performances made up for Juba's awkwardness and scored a win for their team in the first Star Challenge. That's two wins for Orchid in the first episode.
Bad Day
"I sucked today," writes Orchid after a disappointing challenge. On the opposite page, she wrote a prep list for her dish in the Scarpetta restaurant challenge.
Orchid's Misfire
Orchid got major flak from the judges for using canned oysters in her abalone-inspired seafood dish.
Farewell From a Friend
After Katy was eliminated, she left a farewell note for Orchid on her pillow, which Orchid saved and taped into her journal.
Bonding
"You are so warm, caring and determined to win!! YOU GO GIRL!!" Katy wrote to Orchid.
Duff's Angels
Orchid writes out plans for the dessert challenge. Her all-girl team ended up losing to the boys, but Orchid's pecan pie was a big hit.
Southern Comfort
Bob Tuschman said he hates pecan pie, but he couldn't get enough of Orchid's, made with chocolate chips and a bacon-graham cracker crust.
Cougar Town
Chris was Orchid's partner for the Cougar Town Challenge and she felt confident. "Watch out Jyll and Vic," she wrote in her journal. Orchid worried about this strong duo from the beginning.
Everybody's Friend
Many finalists in the house couldn't get along with Penny, but Orchid seemed to get along with everyone. There weren't many dry eyes when she was eliminated.
Full of Ideas
Orchid wrote out dozens of ideas for dishes she had in her back pocket, but the food truck challenge sent her home early.
Tough Team
On a team with big personalities Jyll and Vic, Orchid was overshadowed. Her positive attitude didn't waver: "This will not be the last time you see me, I promise. I'm going to keep going. Love you guys."
