The only thing that bothered me about this episode was that Kripke promised at the beginning of the season that this season would be about Sam and Dean reforging their relationship.

I agree - 100% - it's really been an awful disappointment in that respect so far. I guess he really meant he was going to take the whole damn season to do it. It can't be easy though - I get that.

It just about broke my heart when Dean tossed the amulet and declared it worthless. OW!