No, it’s not as dramatic as it sounds – but, Serena definitely had words for me when we were reunited at The Next Food Network Star After Party.

Oh, and yes – she did address the unforgettable “singing” moment.

Watch the clip, it’s pretty funny.

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Been there, done that … won that — Melissa D’Arabian‘s back on Star tomorrow night, and I’m eager to hear any advice she may have for the finalists.

As someone who knows what it takes to hang tough in this competition, she’s the perfect person to help these guys stay motivated. And her direct, no-nonsense approach may be just what they need at this point in the race. Here, listen to her share a key belief she feels is essential for scoring a win.

An added bonus: Melissa’s joining us for an encore appearance in tomorrow night’s Star chat. Catch up with her at 9pm/8c! (Can’t make it? Post your questions for Melissa here.)

P.S.: For any of you who may be wondering just how good her Ten Dollar Dinners really are (or if ten bucks will really get it done), I’m here to tell you that my experiences with her recipes, eight so far, have been excellent. Last week, I made her Lemony Shrimp Scampi Pasta and it was just fantastic. A light, summer-perfect dish that only cost ten dollars. (All right, $10.47, but that still counts.)

Does it seem to you like this season of Star is just flying by? It’s actually hard for me to believe it’s been six weeks since I was watching these guys for the first time. To give myself a reality check, I think about just how much has happened: finalists who seemed incredible in the premiere have gone home; others I was sure wouldn’t last past Week Three are flying high. I have to say that for me, Brad has been the biggest surprise by far. Like Susie speculated in Week Two, I initially felt that he was just too nice. She questioned whether his upbringing might get in the way, and I thought, definitely. Doesn’t Southern decorum mean manners and courtesy come first?  And while those certainly aren’t negatives, Star competition can be pretty tough and ruthless.

So despite his many charms – the kind demeanor, the super-sweet smile, the hat (not to mention his mad cooking skills) – I refused to get my hopes up. The guy had two more weeks, tops. I wasn’t about to buy in. Well, I guess he showed me. Instead of letting those qualities get in his way, he’s made them part of what he’s about when it comes to his food … and when it comes to the Brad you see on camera. Amazing, but I really didn’t think it would happen. Did you?