Saturday, January 09, 2010

Gancho, Friday, January 8th. There’s Battle Lines Bein’ Drawn

Alternate Title: Marriage Therapy 101 by Rolando Klunder: Go Above and Beyond What She Expects – Take a Leap of Faith

Ximena’s mega party was a watershed event. Connie announced to all the world that Mau was Furia, and then was humiliated and proven wrong when they showed up in the same room. Beto finally hitched up his pants, and is going to act like a man, now in partnership with Mauricio. Rolu has accepted that he loves Ximena, although she still wants this to be their farewell. And Connie’s reaction to the humiliation was to kick Mau out of the house, fire Teresa, and vow revenge. It seems that the forces of good and evil are lining up for the cosmic battle to come. But not without a lot of fun along the way, as we shall see tonight.

We begin with Moni and Estrella, still in their party dresses. Moni has figured out that the “eyes” have it, specifically Mau’s, which when surrounded by a mask, are identical to Furia’s. Moni points out all the evidence, but Estre nervously tries to downplay each point. Moni’s had enough. Drawing on her deep friendship, she asks Estrella point blank, “You already knew Furia Enmascarada was Mauricio, right?” Estre hems, she haws, she puts up her hand, and finally says……”No comment”. Huh? Well, that’s what actresses say when they don’t want to answer. And by the way, I just happen to be super tired, so bye! She heads for the door, but Moni cuts her off, you’re not leaving until you talk. We’re not just friends, we’re bosom buddies (carnalas, I just made up the bosom part). Okay, Estrella might talk, but Moni has to swear not to get mad, or stop talking to her. Moni promises. Okay, the answer is…..yes. Estre’s afraid of Moni’s reaction, but Moni is…….happy, entranced, amused.

A conga line dances its way into Xime’s place, chanting “Let the party continue” (que siga la fiesta). We’ve got Jackie, Oscar, Jero, Xime, Rolu and Lalu, with a much more reserved Katia and Arnoldo bringing up the rear. Jero goes to pour everybody some more booze, and Xime’s gonna put on the music, after Rolu tenderly kisses her again. (I understand what Jarocha has been saying. Rolu is really good looking, especially when he’s smiling, which he’s definitely doing here. How’s Xime going to resist?) Arnie wants to leave, but Rolu tells him this is a magical night. The dance music starts, and Xime glides into Rolu’s arms.

Moni’s a little more somber, now, asking whether Aldo and Estre have known for a while. Estre admits they did, and is worried that Moni’s going to be mad now, but Moni just wants the whole story. She sits Estre down, it’s time for her to come clean (desembuchar).

Arnie tells Rolu he’s going to bed. And he’s not unpacking, because he hopes they’ll leave in the morning. Katia tells Jackie she’s tired too, can we go home? Her mom, drink in hand, tells Katia not to be such a wet blanket, besides, she doesn’t have school tomorrow. Jackie, Oscar and Jero toast to an unforgettable night. Xime’s wearing Rolu’s bowtie, and Lalu’s dancing behind her. Rolu cuts in without her knowledge, rubs up against her, and she’s startled by “Lalu”, then turns to see Rolu. They kiss deeply.

Mau pulls up to his house to see his suitcases sitting in the driveway. This does not make him happy. Connie saunters out to knock him down a little farther. She confidently tells him that she knows he’s Furia, and that proves that he broke the prenup, by getting close to the chimpanzee. He should stop rubbing shoulders (rozando) with the lower class, and act like a gentleman. Mau shoots back that Connie’s no lady, given the way she’s acting.

Back at Xime’s, Katia’s fallen asleep on the couch. Jackie and the guys are sloshed out of their minds. Rolu’s slow dancing with Xime, even though the songs are fast. He just wants to be as close as he can, he wants this night to last til morning, and he wants to take Xime to the cama! Eyes flashing with excitement, Xime seductively leads him upstairs. At the top of the stairs, Rolu lifts her into his arms, and carries her across the threshold.

Another couple is not quite so limber. Don Cesar and Nieves are slumped on their sofa, pooped out. Cesar is stiff from the dancing, but ready for bed. But wait – here’s Alicia, having been assigned Beto’s room, complaining about the smell, of course. Hmmph, says Nieves, a beggar with claws. Well, if you don’t like Beto’s room, the front door’s just over there. Alicia wonders why Nieves doesn’t even clean that room. Are you calling me a fodonga (a sloppy, unkempt person)? is the reply. Don Cesar says they’re like a pair of hens, when Beto enters to add to the menagerie. Nieves angrily reminds him that this is longer his house, unless he starts acting like a man. Cesar agrees, and when Beto tells him he’s a scrounger, Cesar says Soy un hombre hecho y derecho, y más derecho que hecho (I’m an upright, grown-up guy, literally made (or done) and honest, and more honest than made). In contrast, you’re a mama’s boy. Beto calmly responds, I WAS, but no more. I spoke with Mauricio, and we’re best friends now. I realize he loves La Monita, and I’m going to help him get her back. Nieves and Cesar’s mouths drop open.

All this time, Mauricio and Connie have been arguing outside the house. She says he’s Furia. He says he’s not, and she has no proof (of course whenever a telenovela character says this, you KNOW it’s true). She says she’ll get the proof, she’ll show the judge, and he’ll be left with nothing, no kids, no money, he’ll end up in the trash. And I’ll get the children, MY children, she says. She picks up one of his suitcases, tosses it to him. Now leave. You’re forbidden from entering this house. Mau can’t believe she’d be so cruel to the children. But Connie’s not daunted. She says he’ll never see them again, and in the morning she’s changing the locks (chapas). She tells him he dug his own tomb, with that ridiculous idea of La Furia Enmascarada.

Estrella has finished telling Moni the whole Furia storia, and Moni likes it! He did all that just to be close to me! Right, says Estre, he did it out of love, and wouldn’t let any Mummy keep him away from the woman he loved. So don’t be mad. Of course not, says Moni, I can’t believe it, the two guys I love are the same one! Gushing with happiness, she really does seem to have forgiven Mauricio. What a cool thing he did! Estre is so happy for her, and also happy she finally doesn’t have to keep this secret, a big weight has been lifted from her shoulders, it’s finally over. Well, not quite yet, corrects Moni. You still have to keep the secret. Her head in her hands, Estre moans, why? Moni sets her jaw, and lays it out – Mauricio tricked me, he did it for love, but he tricked me, and I’m going to have a little fun with him for just a bit (un ratito). She smiles conspiratorily.

Estrella doesn’t like that look, What are you up to? (Qué estás tramando?) She’s going to give Mau a taste of his own medicine (una sopa de su propia chocolate).

Connie and Mau are still out there in the dark, strutting (seems as if they’ve been doing this for hours). Mau says he’s got weapons, too. And when the judge hears his side, Connie will be the one with nothing. No marriage, no kids, no money. You have a lover, I have witnesses, and you’re going to have a child with him, so YOU’VE dug (cavó) your own grave. Connie tires of this (as do we), and leaves, saying this is WAR.

A few seconds later, Aldo comes out, having somehow avoided the Momia’s reCONIssance. Mau pulls him aside, asks him to tell the girls not to worry, he’s going to win the case. He gives Aldo his cellphone, keep this hidden from Constanza at all costs. I’ll get another tomorrow, and I’ll be able to call you. I give you the number. And no matter what, keep me informed as to what’s happening with you kids. They hug, and part tearfully, as Mau reminds Aldo to take care of his sisters. They’ll be together again soon.

Beto’s been spellbinding his Mom and the spikey-one with his new plans. He’s going to fight for his love, and for his son. You’ll see, I’m gonna hitch up my pants. Upon hearing those golden words, Nieves rises to give her now grown-up baby boy a tender hug and kiss. Cesar’s dubious, but Nieves, hugging Beto to her breast, is proud. She’s ready to cook him up some eats, but Beto’s a bit sleepy after all this speechifyin’. But where’s the boy to sleep, since Alicia’s taken his room? Not to worry, says Nieves, you can sleep in MY bed tonight. Cesar – you’ll be just fine in the easy chair!

Okay, it’s FINALLY morning. We begin at Xime/Jero’s. The first to rise are Katia, who slept on the sofa in her party dress, and feels a little twisted (torcida), and Arnie, who’s been up for hours, cleaning every corner of this disgusting apartment. And Jackie ended up on the sofa as well. She’s got a major hangover, and Katia gives her grief for this, saying she’s too old to behave like that. Jackie’s says you’re never too old to have fun, and besides, she’s not old. Arnie gives her mineral water with lemon and salt, it’s great for a hangover. Katia reminds her Ma this has happened before, she had to sleep in strange houses while Mom partied, but Jackie says we can talk about those great old times later, she wants to go home. They each kiss Arnie, one on each cheek, leaving him in microbial shock.

Next stop, upstairs. Jerry’s naked upper body turns to see……Oscar’s naked upper body! They both scream. What happened? Don’t remember. Neither do I. From in between, pops out………….. Lalu’s naked upper body. Good morning! As they jump out of bed, Lalu smiles, makes a sign of “2”, claps his hands in glee, and thanks heaven for little boys. Awwwwwww!

Xime comes downstairs dressed casually, jeans and a gray and white top, and informs Arnie that Rolu’s packing. She then gleefully tells the now horrified Arnie that last night Rolu was a total tiger, grrrrr, want to hear what he did? She starts acting it out, but of course this is a bit too much information for our tender Arnie, so Xime zips her mouth, but she does have 3 things to tell him. 1) About last night. Last night was the best night of my life, uhuh! 2) I know you don’t like me too much, Arnie, but it’s been a super, super pleasure knowing you, and 3) I want to ask you a super favor, porfis. Take care of my Rolu, please. She grabs one of Arnie’s kleenex’s to dab away a tear. Upstairs, Rolu’s dressed, but asks Xime if she knows where his passport is. She does, saying goodbye, ex-brother in law, kissing Arnie on both cheeks, and as she goes upstairs, Arnie complains, why do they have to have all that kissing? Germs, germs, germs, gotta wash up again!

Magical, wonderful, enchanting Ximena lightly touches Rolu’s arm, tells him his brother is fantastic, but he is a little strange, no? She goes into the bedroom for Rolu’s passport. Rolu is standing there on the balcony, despondent, he loves Xime with all his heart. He thinks to himself, what can he do to stop this? Suddenly, it dawns on him. He steps back, takes a deep breath, and launches himself over the railing, crashing to the floor! This causes Arnie to scream, Xime to scream louder, as she rushes downstairs, clutching the passport, wondering why he wanted the passport if he was going flying without it. Rolu tries to smile through the pain.

Moni’s shaving her lower legs while fully clothed (well actually she’s wearing a small, red crop top and clingy white sweats), reading a magazine on her bed (do people really do this?) Of course there’s a knock at the door, and it’s Mauricio, looking tall, dark and handsome, as the sexy music begins to play. Can he come in? Nope, Furia’s in here. This puts the usual dumb look back on Mau’s face, and he comes in to look, only to confirm that he wasn’t already there (if that makes any sense). Moni explains that she just wants Mau to know that Furia’s her boyfriend now, they’re in love, so you’ll just have to accept it. Oh, I do? replies Mau, and he plants a HUGE kiss on her, one that she feels throughout every pore of her body. Don’t do that, she says weakly. Why not? Does Furia kiss better? Does he make you tremble and forget the whole world when he kisses? She starts to talk, “Mauricio” when he REALLY goes in for the kill, wrapping his strong arms around her, and letting her feel all those long months of pent-up emotion. She melts into his arms.

After the commercial, they’re still kissing, but Moni drags herself away, telling Mau she doesn’t know. You don’t know what? Well, if his kisses are as good as Furia’s, since she hasn’t kissed Furia yet, and she’d like to compare. But how are you going to find out, inquires Mau, if he never takes off his mask? Ah, women have their little tricks (mañas), don’t you worry. Besides, she tells him (a hint of sneaky smile on her lips), Furia is a little taller than you, a little heavier (she says ponchado), more personality, just a little more of everything than you. In the ring, he’s the best fighter I’ve seen, and outside of it, he’s loving, kind, he’s just cool! (chido) Mau’s getting a little upset here, saying, So you’ve really found another guy? Yep, she says, he’s the man of my life. What’s more, come over here. She pulls his head down to hers, and gives HIM a super intense kiss. What was that? he asks, he thought she loved Furia. Yeah, but she needs to remind herself, so she can compare. He’s a bit stunned, but she’s barely able to contain her devious little self.

It’s a quiet little breakfast over at Connie’s (formerly Mau’s) place. Well, actually there IS no breakfast. Katia, Luisa and Dani are sitting silently in front of empty plates as Jackie, sporting sunglasses to protect her hangover eyes from the bright light of day, is drinking orange juice, it’s divine, she’ll have a second cup. She tells the morose kids she knows Connie kicked their Daddy out, but trust her, this’ll pass, she’ll have a talk with La Momia. Enter said Momia, dropping a bag of fast food on the table, telling the kids, Here’s your breakfast. Eat, watch TV, whatever, but you can’t leave the house. Jackie takes Connie aside for a little chat.

Mauricio exits Moni’s apartment with his usual stunned look. Estrella asks him if things went badly with Moni. Well, he says, Moni was acting a little strangely, is anything going on? Estrella covers, no, um, of course not. By the way, who was dressed up as Furia at the party? You’ll never believe it, says Mau, but he doesn’t have time to tell, he needs to go see the lawyers now. It’s time to speed up the divorce, and the Mau/Furia thing has to stop, today. Things have just gotten out of hand. He goes off, but runs into Teresa and Ivan. Terry painfully relates how Connie fired her. She slept at Ivan’s, and he stayed with Cris and Paula. Mau is outraged, but assures her this won’t be for long, Connie’s not going to win this time. Terry is worried about the kids, who’s taking care of them? Aldo, repies Mau, and he takes out his wallet, gives Terry some money. She reluctantly accepts it. He tells Ivan to take care of his Granny, and if they need anything, call Gabi, she’ll be able to get in touch with him. He goes off, more determined than ever.

So, do you think Jackie’s little chat with Connie will have any effect? Neither do I. Jackie says it’s fine that Connie’s going to get divorced, even get all his money, but why does she want the kids? With the baby, she’ll have FOUR kids, and that’s quite a load. Connie doesn’t care, she can just put them back in the boarding school. But, asks Jackie, wouldn’t it be easier just to give them back to your husband? No, Mom, I want Mauricio to cry tears of blood with this divorce. I’m going to hit him where it hurts the most. But, you know what, Ma? I’m grateful that you’re going to make sure Oscar and Jero get nothing, too. We’ll have plenty of money, and you, Mother, will be well rewarded. Jackie lights up a bit, well that’s nice, and I earned it (she says yo creo que me la he ganado a pulso, no?, literally, I think I’ve earned myself to a pulse, right?, but it just means I’ve earned it). Connie gives her Mom a quick kiss, she’s got important things to do, and by the way, Teresa doesn’t work here anymore, so could you be a dear and watch the niños? Jackie sputters, but Connie’s off with a happy “Ciao” and an airkiss, leaving Jackie to mutter to herself, “four kids!”

Moni tells Estre about Mau’s kiss, it was so strong, she was flying, she can still taste him on her lips. Estre’s happy, you see, you two were made for each other. Moni’s laughing, I love Mau, I love Furia, but they’re the same! Estre wants Moni to stop making Mau suffer. And by the way, Mau told her Furia is going to come by today to tell you the truth. He said things were getting out of hand. Fine, says Moni, with another sneaky smile, fine, but I’m not letting him off the hook that easily. Remember that tiger striped dress (vestidito) you have that’s ultra sexy? Will you lend it to me? Estrella will, but what does Moni have in mind? Moni has that devious little smile again!

Abogado time. Connie’s with her mean-looking lawyer. He’s checked the prenup, and everything’s in Connie’s favor. Cut to Mau, with his less mean-looking lawyer, HE’s checked the prenup, and there’s no hope.

Back to Connie: Mauricio invented this wrestler, he used that to break the contract and get close to his girlfriend.

Mauricio: Constanza has a lover, she started before the marriage, and she’s still with him, she’s even pregnant by him.

Connie’s lawyer: Got any proof that Mauricio is Furia Enmascarada? Not yet.

Mau: Of course I have proof she was unfaithful. In fact, her lover, Roberto Ochoa, is willing to testify against her. His lawyer tells him that changes EVERYTHING, in fact, we might win the whole thing with this.

Connie’s lawyer: Without proof, you’re not going to win.
Mau: Salvador recommended you, sir, and I know you’re honest. I don’t want you to break any rules, but I want the divorce as soon as possible.
Connie: I’ll get the proof, but who cares? Do what you have to do. Buy off witnesses, judges, dogs, whatever. I’m determined to ruin Mauricio Sermeño, and nothing’s going to stop me!

Yes, the battle lines are drawn.

Previews: Estrella collapses again (we sort of forgot about that, hope it’s nothing serious). And Moni raises the temperature WAY up with that tiger dress. Oh, Carlos, you lucky dog!

Vocabulario:

Carnalas – best mates or buddies, feminine version, sisters
Desembuchar – to come clean about something
Rozar – to rub against, brush against, or “rub shoulders” with someone or some group of people
Fodongo(a) – someone who is unkempt, sloppy, unattractive, crass and does not care one bit to change or improve themselves
Chapa – a lock. Can also mean a metal sheet or panel, or a badge
Tramar – to plot or plan, Qué estás tramando means what are you up to?
Una sopa de su propia chocolate – a taste of his own medicine, literally, a soup of his own chocolate
Ganarse a pulso – to earn something, literally earn yourself a pulse
Vestidito – a little dress. Can’t wait to see Moni in it!

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Comments:
Hombre, once again you've done a magnificent job of capturing the detail, spirit, and fun of this episode. I didn't get to see this as it aired last night. The Lovely Linda and I spent a marvelous evening in the home of my Profa. We were joined by her delightful mom and one of her close friends whom I had not met before. Of course I was in heaven surrounded by three beautiful women. She served enchiladas verdes, arroz, a puree of frijoles negros, with chopped lettuce (lechuga picada) and sliced radish (rábano rebanado) as a garnish for the enchiladas, with choices of vino blanco or vino tinto. Dessert was Lebanese pastries, honeydew melon, and café. Needless to say, wow! It was una noche maravellosa.

Sorry, I've started dieting since the 1st so I think about good food a lot. This morning, I watched the recording, and when I checked, here is your fantastic recap, hot off the press. A great start to an otherwise miserably cold day.

I think we have all been expecting Rolu to take another tumble (in keeping with the theme of tres cosas) but who expected it to be self inflicted? The guys here all have displayed a penchant to do desperate things for love so I wasn't too surprised.

Ya gotta love Coni's consistency. Just yesterday I remarked that she is special because she's always willing to go that extra mile to insure the misery of others. Last night, she admitted to Jaqui that yes the kids are an estorba for her, but keeping them herself prevents Mao from being happy and that's what matters.

Didn't Moni's face glow as Estre related what Mao did for love? Wasn't Estre wonderful telling her about it. Wasn't Ximena... well... Ximena? Aren't she and Rolu good together? Arnie and Katia?...Nah. Isn't this just about one the most enjoyable TNs consistently day after day?

Carlos
 

OMG!!!!! I knew Rolu would have to do something dramatic -- but why didn't I see this coming. And I love Xime's asking why he asked for a passport if he keeps flying without one. The love scene was so well done and so touching -- the look on Xime's face as she led him up the stairs and then comes Rolu's lover's leap. What a pair they are. Priceless.

Güera from Syra cuse
 

Good morning all...yes, great episode, great recap.

Hombre, you know I'm a fan of your opening paragraphs and this one didn't disappoint. Great way to set up the "scene" of the rest of the story.

Your alternate title was GREAT!!!! And appreciate "fodonga" and "chapas". Those were two words that flew right by me.

Liked your description of Arnie's "microbial shock." The scary wake-up scene of Oscar, Jeronimo and Lalu was hysterical.

And as to your question: Do people really do this? ie. shave their legs while sitting on the bed reading a magazine. Yes.

Especially in a living situation where one doesn't have easy access to showers and toilets like the barrio. You dry shave your legs and make up for it with lotion and yeah, if you're really careful you can do it and read at the same time.

I've lived in some spartan conditions. Maids' rooms in Paris are rented to students. There's a basin in the room. You cook with a hotplate. No fridge. And the toilet's down the hall. No bathtub or shower. Birdbaths are all you can manage.

Carlos!? A diet!? Any special kind? Tell me more.
 

Carlos, your meal sounds delicious. Not too easy if you're on a diet, thought. Suerte!

Guera, I thought Rolu and Ximena were terrific together, too. Finally.

Judy, of course! I'd forgotten about the outdoor plumbing, and just thought most women shaved in the shower. But it makes perfect sense. Thanks for the cultural tip. A student in Paris? What fun you must have had.
 

Oh, one more thing I thought was funny was that both Jero and Oscar kept saying this is an unforgettable night. Then in the morning, they'd forgotten everything!
 

Güera, I've adored Ximena from the beginning. The first moment she appeared here I knew she was special. As for Rolu, it was so easy to dislike his character, initially. As you recall, he apparently almost killed Mao in a race that took place before the show began and then again in a race we saw which resulted in Mao's brief coma (and I contend, perhaps his current lack of snap), so it's taken us a while to warm up to or trust him. Well, he's won me over. I guess Ximena, who fell for him from the start, was able to detect qualities and potential that were very well hidden from the rest of us. Since things are occurring in threes I anxiously await his next tattoo.

I'm fretting over Estrella. Her blackouts auger something much more serious than pregnancy. Maybe in my episode Mon more will be revealed.

Judy, nothing very unique about my diet. Robust breakfast (usually eggs, bacon, and toast). Most days fruit and cheese for lunch. Thur (afternoon off, out and about with Lovely Linda) oysters on half shell, a small cup of gumbo, and glass of beer. Dinner, usually some type of homemade soup and iced tea. Alas, no desserts or other alcoholic drinks, except for special occasions (which I predict more of). With exception of breakfast, always reduced portions (how difficult it was to eat just one enchilada). The main drawback is that I think about food a lot, read about food a lot, talk about it a lot, and have vivid dreams of sumptuous meals most nights. I've done this before along with increasing exercise and it's always worked.

Sorry gang,, I'll try to avoid talking about food here henceforth... though I do wonder what Coni bought the kids for breakfast in last night's show.

I am wondering if Moni plans to make Mao uncomfortable by actually going al the way with Furia. She certainly was alluring in the tiger chemise, and she did bring out the blindfold. I predict that we'll be well entertained in the days ahead.

Sun's out but it's not supposed to get above freezing out here where we live. I think we'll skip the doggy play date today. Stay warm everyone.

Carlos
 

Good morning all. Gosh it felt good to sleep in after a long work week. Great recap and I love the title, I know I'll be humming "For What It's Worth" all day long. The alternate title is also perfect.

OK, when Rolu picked Xime up I thought "Rolu don't get so close to the edge! You always fall over" but it did NOT occur to me he would fling himself over on purpose!! Like Guera I was shocked, then I laughed like crazy with Xime's comment about the passport. What a hilariously awesome act of love. I have officially forgiven him and am now rooting for their love to succeed.

Shock#2 - Lalu popping up between Jero and Oski. Yes I knew it was going to happen but our two little lapdogs looked so stricken I couldn't help sharing the shock with them. What a hoot.

Carlos, your dinner sounds absolutely divine. You lucky boy.

Hombre, I thoroughly enjoyed your clever take on last night's episode. Your vocab list absolutely rocks, you've got some great words and phrases. Thanks so much.
 

Well, we all said that Rolu had to do something dramatic to prove his love to Xime, and well...you can't much more dramatic than throwing yourself over a high landing! He and Xime definitely share a flare for drama...and for dancing, and kissing, and cuddling, and other things in the bedroom that Arnie did not let Xime detail for us. ;-)

-Vivi in DC
 

Great recap Hombre, it was so much fun! And you mentioned Rolu's fabulous looks. He is such a hottie!

About "carnalas" it actually means sisters, it comes from "carne". Carnal or Carnala is brother or sister but in the case of Moni and Estre, Moni was saying that their friendship was so strong they were sisters, so your term bossom budies fits too.

Carlos what a nice dinner you had yesterday, yummy. You also saw the strange vibe between Arnie and Katia, I thought that was just me.

Didn't Moni look gorgeous in her scene with Mau?

At least Coni brought something for the kids to eat. She's been so mean lately but if you compare her to other villains she is not as terrible as them (bringing food to the kids, not drinking while pregnant, etc.). I think has she been played by someone with less strenght she could have loss worth as a villain.

I heard some news today about Gancho being changed to the 3 pm timeslot starting january 18th. Someone on the Univision forums has said that ENDA will go to the 7 pm and Hasta Que El Dinero Nos Separe will premiere at the 8 pm timeslot. Will that affect the recaps on Caray?

Jarocha
 

Jarocha, actually, that's something of a bombshell. Wow! I don't think it will affect me greatly, but it's a bit of a shock. I presume that we will continue recapping this 'til it's over. I am a little bit afraid that it might dwindle the already smaller number of readers of our daily reports, however.

Carlos
 

Jarocha, tres cosas: Una, I am loving this show and a move to different time slot doesn't make a whit of difference to me. Dos, I Tivo it anyway. Tres, I get out of work much earlier than most people (and go in earlier too!) so that would enable me to post sooner! Aha!! (as Xime would say)
 

Nice to hear we'd still have our daily recaps. It's become a rutine of mine to come and read them and your comments to see your wonderful takes on the episodes.

Carlos: I was also shocked by the news, it seems like a really drastic choice by the Univision executives.

Sylvia: ¡me encantan tus tres cosas! Maybe now you'll just need more recappers if the site decides to also recap Hasta Que El Dinero Nos Separe.

Jarocha
 

I just checked my Tivo lineup and Gancho still shows to be playing at 7:00 p.m. on the 18th. However since it's a week away that could change as we get closer. I'll keep an eye on it.
 

Good grief...color me flummoxed! Changing our show to 3 pm!! No puede ser! Yes, I could still recap it (and get it done earlier which would be a relief) but don't think there would be enough extra writers to recap the Dinero show. ENDA is already short a recapper for Fridays.

Hopefully those of us who enjoy Gancho will tivo or videotape it, but Carlos is right, our small group may get even smaller.

Carlos, sending you my good wishes on portion control and wise exercise. Believe it or not, one thing that works is to quietly say to yourself, especially while falling asleep, "My body wants to lose weight. My body wants to lose weight." Next thing you know, presto, you're light on your feet and feeling a decade younger....at least!

The Pritikin/Ornish/McDougaller in me is cringing at the bacon and eggs breakfast, but the old Kentuckian is saying "Bring it on!") That's what I had for breakfast (in a black iron skiller) growing up, along with fresh squeezed orange juice. Simply divine.
 

Judy, people really shave like that? I cringed watching her. Auch. My delicate skin would not tolerate it.

The only thing wrong with this episode is that there was too much of Coni witching it up and not enough Xime and Rolu. A whole episode of just Xime and Rolu wouldn't be enough.

Great recap; I loved the "the 'eyes' have it" line.

I can't believe Univision would actually change the times. That just seems stupid. Like the others said, it wouldn't make a difference to me because I record the shows and if ENDA was earlier I could get my recaps done sooner, but I think we would lose a lot of viewers.

Also, I saw a little of the Dinero show while I was in Mexico and didn't find it super engaging. Maybe I would like it better if I saw it from the beginning, but I'd still say Gancho is WAY better.
 

Sylvia, I knew you'd recognize the song from my title, For What Its Worth, by Buffalo Springfield, since you've done it several times before. Good one!

Jarocha, thanks for the input on carnalas. You remarked how Moni looked gorgeous in her scene with Mau. I agree. It's amazing how much better the characters look when they're happy (Rolu and Moni, for example), than when problems are weighing on them. I'm guessing the production staff makes a special effort to make this come true, with makeup, costumes, etc.

I'm also taken aback by the possible schedule change, but if it happens, I'll definitely keep recapping Gancho.
 

Hi, y'all, remember me? Sorry to have been off line so long; must plead a rocky work week and the eldercare thing seems to be in one of its periodic troughs. Plus this damn cold weather.

La Senora Emilia is visiting with a couple of girlfriends in NC this weekend. The friends are from Fayetteville, but due to paparazzi and celeb-watchers clogging the roads hoping for a glimpse of "Lisa" who quit smoking by the grace of Chantix, Los Tres Mujeres are hanging out in a small country town away from the hubbub. Plus Fayetteville started enforcing the ordinance against IFG (Incessant Female Gum-beating) so they're also avoiding the juzgado and still having a good time making popcorn and giggling about cute guys. You can see why I'm not hurt at all to be left off the invitation list.

My what a busy week for Gancho, though! Interesting to see how the characters come to the fore (Ximena and Rolu this week) while others take a somewhat more background role. As an old squadron mate used to say, "Sun don't shine on one dog's ass all the time." That does not apply to Bonnie Belle, Carlos, she's got a waiver.

I still have mixed feelings about Ximena, though. Good hearted, cute, not an evil bone in her cuerpa, but not the most mature person around. Rolu, in the telenovela mode of becoming a good guy in the space of a few episodes, is now the victim. A marriage there would be a train wreck sooner rather than later. Anyway, who told Rolu to go take a flying leap?

Coni: every time I think she's hit rock bottom... Was that character inspired by something in Revelations?

Let's see how long the renewed "hermanos del alma" pledge lasts this time.

Lalu's drag performance reminded of the first time I went to North Beach in San Francisco 41 years ago. There was a long line outside an establishment called Finocchio's and a buddy and I thought it must be something pretty special. Someone in the line told us what exactly what it was and we kinda took a rain check in a big hurry. I guess we were a little short on big city sophistication.

Carlos, your description of your dinner last night made me drive down to El Mariachi for my dinner tonight. Wish I had a profa.

Judy, in fact I had an omelette this morning cooked in a black iron skillet. Emilia OK'ed my using it cook while she was gone.

You recappers are a spectacular bunch of folks, you really are. Emilia and I don't have comments every day, but that doesn't lessen our appreciation for what you do!
 

Hi Mike, so glad to hear you and Emilia are OK. We wondered about you two a day or so ago. I know how the eldercare thing can become all-consuming at times, but it's important to care for those who once cared for us so good on ya.

Good for Emilia!! Sounds like she's having a blast and your bonus is you get to use the pan for its inteded use...for a change.
 

Mike, I missed you two, but you've got me cracking up today. I hope Emilia is having a glorious time. I wish you could have tasted the meal last night. It was my first time to have green enchiladas. She made them with pork in deference to my aversion to eating things that once had feathers. Also I redid the arithmetic and realized that I was surrounded by four beautiful women. I used to be good in math. Maybe starvation is starting to set in.

I'm glad no one is deterred by the possible time change. It means that I can get started a little earlier as well, but I hope we don't lose viewers or readers. Maybe we should offer cocktails with the recaps.

Mike, let me meekly offer that everything Ximena does is likely perfectly logical and appropriate on the planet she is originally from. She is certainly too innocent and guileless to be from around here.

Judy, I thought that in France, shaving for women is pretty much optional, even discouraged. Oh, a few years ago a study done in the UK showed that children receiving a hearty breakfast, in this case, eggs, bacon or sausage, toast and butter, and milk did much better academically than those who got the so-called healthier breakfast of cereal, milk, and fruit. No followup on how their little hearts turned out, however. My mother always insisted on a huge breakfast. They say (I'm not sure who):

"Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper."

My body wants to lose weight. My body wants to lose weight.

Better'n, "Hey, are you gonna eat the rest of that?"

Carlos
 

Carlos, as I recall what the Brits referred to as their "full fried" breakfast, their bacon was what we call Canadian bacon. It was less fatty, less salty, though still very nice. Ditto for their sausage, aka "bangers." They loved their toast and the butter was excellent. Eggs is eggs, of course. And they were big on having a fried slice or half of a tomato, too, as part of the breakfast.

Judy, is that kinda the way you remember our cousins' breakfast?
 

Mike, when interviewed, the chief researcher, a stereotypical, emaciated pediatrician was asked if everyone should switch to a more robust breakfast, he said that he was surprised at the outcome but there was not a way in Hell that he would. He said that he preferred living a little longer to being a little smarter. I say go for the gusto.

Are ya'll managing to stay warm. It's already 29º here.

Carlos
 

Carlos, it's 31 here in Yorktown. Feels colder somehow. At least we had brilliant sun all day today. Went out (very briefly) on the motorcycle this afternoon, primarily to keep its fluids fluid.

And I definitely agree w/ your point of view about going for the gusto. Was the pediatrician's name Mengele, perchance?
 

Wow..I missed a lot of fun stuff last night when my son was on the computer.

Mike, glad to hear you and Emilia were fine. My first thought was that a crisis had happened with your mother. Once we hit 90 (well, hope I do, anyway) these setbacks seem to come more often) but hope things are smoothing out. Bet Emilia IS having a blast!

Mike, I remember some rather dreary breakfasts in the pension where we stayed in London (before finding an apartment). The tomatoes were all right but I hated the way they put the toast in the toast racks so they were all cold by the time you got them. Never really got into baked beans on toast either. And if I'm going to eat bacon, give me the good old sugar-cured fatty bacon we eat here in the States. If I'm gonna go, let me go happy.

Still, those breakfast results puzzle me, Carlos. A fatty meal sludges the blood as you know. But maybe the results are less for the little guys than us oldsters. I love a breakfast like that but afterwards I just want to take a nap! While I hated changing over to oatmeal and fruit, I can't say it's take the pleasure out of life. Not as long as I've got you guys and CarayCaray anyhow!

Julia: you just have to be very very careful. A light touch is de rigeur.

Carlos: A lot of Austrian women didn't shave: ditto for the French at that time. But we Americans in Paris sure did!
 

Good morning to everyone here at Club Gancho. I certainly hope that everyone is managing to stay safe and warm. Here in the part of Texas where we live it has been over 10 years since we've had weather this cold and for so many days in a row. So far we've been lucky. We've had a pipe burst out at the vegetable garden which was easily managed by cutting off the flow through that isolated pipe and faucet. It's troubling however, because it was carefully wrapped and protected. Bonnie Belle enjoyed sprinting around the back yard in the crisp air and bright sunshine, but when she was done, instead of waiting for me as she usually does, she beat me back in through her doggy-door and was comfortably and warmly ensconced on the couch.

Judy, I don't know if you are a Bengals fan but we Texans fans felt a perverse satisfaction seeing them lose to the Jets for the second week in a row. We were pulling for them last week (had they won that game, they would have been playing the Texans yesterday instead of the Jets) and we feel that they lost that by design. Of course if Houston had won any one of three very close games they wouldn't have had to depend on either Cincy or the Raiders. For the moment I'm a Jets fan. I really like Carson Palmer but Mark Sanchez is fresh and exciting.

No one has mentioned this yet, but though I really enjoyed Lalo's performance, I miss his mustache. He looked naked without it... oh, that's right... he was naked.

Carlos
 

Hi Carlos...no problem. I'm not really a Bengals fan because their California-product quarterback has always pooh-poohed the OSU Buckeyes. Them's fightin' words.

When I used to watch football with my nursing home buddy, he was a Cleveland Browns fan first and foremost and of course they're going absolutely nowhere this year.

Glad to hear Bonne Belle beat you back to the house. Girls Win!!!!
 

Judy, for a quick stroll down memory lane click on this. I'm betting that you likely remember this vividly.

Carlos
 

You bet I do! What a nail biter that was! By the way, my adored Evan Turner is now back in the lineup after fracturing two vertebrae in his spine. Returning to the very physical, floor-pounding game of basketball after only a few weeks (ahead of the expected schedule) has me biting my nails again. Minnesota guards were very agressive with him last night and every time he hit the floor I winced, and surely so did his mama! Keeping my fingers crossed for this very fine young man who, so far, isn't intending to leave early for the NBA like our star players of the 2007 March Madness did.
 

Judy, you can bet his Dr. and his coach as well as his mom hold their breath every time he even its down hard. In our office Darla and Kelli, both avid Kentucky fans are so far on cloud 9 over Kentucky's team this year. The University of Texas is looking pretty good s well. My Lady, though thumped by Oklahoma State yesterday are still very promising. Our latest addition, Brittney Griner is breath-taking to watch. Doncha just love basketball season?

Carlos
 

Wow, would love to see Brittney Griner play. Hopefully you all will make if far enough along in the NCAA Women's tourney for me to watch some games. Yes yes and yes. Basketball is such a phenomenal game to watch. I'm in seventh heaven right now (or would be, had Evan not been so seriously injured). Still, lots to look forward to and hoping his guardian angels keep him safe from now on. And will also watch over your amazing Miss Brittney.
 

Nooooooooooooo!!!...I hope Gancho doesn't go to the 3:00 time slot. I don't get home from work until 4:00 at the earliest, have no Tivo, and our VCR refuses to record.

Okay, now that I've had my little tantrum...

I pondered earlier in the week if Coni could get anymore disgusting. Well, I guess we've put that question to rest! I have to wonder why Mau didn't just shove her out of the way and go into HIS house? She had no right to put him out at this point!

I love Xime and Rolu--every one of their scenes together are just the highlight of each episode. I was shock when he threw himself over the railing--wasn't expecting that until I saw him eye it and back up.
I am cheering for them to get back together. Also, I feel sorry for Katja not having a beau. I kind of hope she and Arnoldo get together. Of course, she'll have to help him get over his germ phobias so we can be happy for her.

Jero, Oscar and Lalu waking up together was hilarious!

Thanks for the vocabulary list. Carnalas got past me. I thought Monita was saying "hermanas," but it just didn't sound right, but the context fit. So "carnalas" makes sense.
 

Hey Judy (and others), did you notice that you got a comment on your Dec 29th post about one of the sayings? And I quote:

"Puerco pero no trompudo" is a common colloquial expression equivalent to saying, "a pig but not a hog," or, "A pig but not a complete filthy slob." It is often used to refer to oneself, as if to say, I have my faults but I draw the line.

I'd say that helps clarify things.

Deb, I hope for your sake Gancho does NOT change time slots. Let's keep our fingers crossed.
 

Deb, we don't want to lose you. I hope that you find a way to record it. Several years ago, on vacation (well a medical meeting) on Padre Island, during the weekend of (I believe) Hurricane Hugo, I found I needed to record my shows. The Lovely Linda and I drove across the causeway (before Hugo rolled in) and bought a VCR for $35 at Walmart, hooked it up to the antennaed TV, programmed the VCR (the really tricky part), set the timer and ... problem solved. I wonder if the digital thing could be a problem now? Try web video. I can give you a link. Just stay.

Sylvia, thanks, I almost go back the next day to check for late posts and I flat missed that. thanks as well to whoever shared that with us.

"Puerco pero no trompudo"

Words to live by.

Carlos
 

Gosh Sylvia...double thanks. We have an anonymous poster who also gave us that tricky translation for "cop" when Estrella was calling out to Christian. He, or she, posts late so sometimes I miss them. Thanks. And Thanks to our bilingual Anonymous!
 

Ah, but I see this translation was posted by "the Soothsayer". Well, Soothsayer, thank you! Much obliged. That saying has come up several times (always spoken by Beto) and it was driving me nuts!
 

Hombre, the bitter cold, whistling frigid wind and bleak January morning were enough to make ANYONE not want to go to work today.

The only bright spot was knowing I'd get to read your recap. It was marvelous. You are a consummate writer - I loved the recap. "reCONIssance" and "spikey one" were so much fun as was so many other clever sayings sprinkeled throughout.

Wonderful comments too.

I will not be able to tape Gancho if it starts showing at 3 p.m. What a disappointment! I've been with the show since the beginning and so looked forward to each episode. I will be relying on these wonderful recaps even more than ever to fill me in. Ack.

Diana
 

Diana, good Monday morning. 25º when we left home this morning. I'm not a cold weather person. When I was younger and a lot of my friends were headed North to ski, we headed in the opposite direction to SCUBA dive.

Since the information of the schedule change was reported by Jarocha, I'm afraid that it's more than likely accurate. We certainly don't want to lose you here. Stay with us, porfis.

Your comment reminded me that I keep meaning to mention reCONIsance as well. Very clever. What is your opinion of Lalo without his mustache? Why is Estrella conking out? Tonight promises to be scintillating.

Carlos
Carlos
 

Carlos...maybe we'll have to mount a unified CarayCaray protest to the network. After all, they list us second (according to our blogmom) in the sites to check concerning the shows. So maybe they'd pay attention....maybe?
 

Mi esposa is real good at programming our VCR so our biggest peril would be the scarcity of VHS videotape in the market. We might have a spare somewhere.

Can we have a moment, BTW, for Emilia? She had a crown prep appt w/ the dentist this morning.

So tired of the cold! The four acre storm catch pond behind the office is frozen again. I have a great view of it and it's neat to watch the herons, ducks, etc wading. We saw a bald eagle doing its thing w/ a fish out there last week, but I doubt we'll see that again till we get a thaw.

So, Carlos, I applaud your preference for water recreation. The allure of skiing and its requisite snow have eluded me as well.
 

Judy, it certainly couldn't hurt. Here's a link to Univision. Also, the CCs which were quite good Thur were erratic and badly timed again Friday. Of course that didn't daunt our Hombre, but I'm praying for coherent, well-timed captions tonight.

Carlos
 

Judy and Carlos, I will certainly write Univision. I am in the same boat as Deb so will simply be unable to watch should this come to pass.

I am beside myself at this most unwelcome news. It's like being with a loved one throughout their pregnancy and being forced to leave prior to the birth. Nopis!

Diana
 

Well...I checked TV Guide online and it indeed does look like our beloved Gancho has been rescheduled to 3:00 p.m. Gah!!!

Diana and others who cannot tape at 3:00, would a link to online episodes help at all? The quality is not that great but it might be better than nothing.
 

Sylvia, a great idea. I am sure that the link would be most welcome for many.

My home computer is virtually useless. I come into work very early, skip lunch and often stay late so I can read the recaps and comment without feeling guilty. However, I couldn't take time to do any more from here.

Carlos, thanks for the link. I already e-mailed Univision. I can't believe they are doing this!

Diana
 

Alright, I've written in and I'm going to write to Melinama about this. Please everybody, follow Carlos' link and write in also.
 

I checked my cable program guide last night and they are indeed showing the time change starting next Monday. Gancho is moving to afternoons (I think it was 3:00 but now I can't remember), ENDA is moving to 7:00 and Hasta Que el Dinero Nos Separe is starting at 8:00.

WHY?!?!!?!!!!

It makes NO SENSE to move the absolute best comedy currently on television here to afternoons. Are we the only ones who love it?
 

I was thinking that Katia and Tano should get together. I know, he's too old for her, so not now, but in a few years.

All she wants is stability, normalcy, steady affection, and to go to bed in her own home at a decent hour. He's the character who could offer that.

I could see her and Arnaldo together, though, if he could get over his germ issues.
 

Does anyone know if they'll accept comments in English? Serious question, alas.
 

Mike. Sure. They'll accept comments in English. After all, most of the readers of this blog are English speakers who are learning Spanish. Although I am delighted that we have so many native Spanish speakers reading it also to help us out with language and cultural question.

As a matter of fact, I wrote my comment in English.
 

I am very bummed about the time change as I am still at work at 3. :( I am going to try to see if my vcr's taping capabilities work and if I actually have any blank tapes! The link to the show online would be welcomed.

I am surprised that they are moving ENDA to 7pm instead of just replacing a comedy (Gancho) with a comedy (Hasta/Dinero) at that hour. That's the most odd thing to me. Anyone know what the Gancho ratings have been like?

-Vivi in DC
 

The ratings must have been good, Vivi, because they extended the show. They only do that if it's pulling in good viewership.

And like you, I use a VCR and now you can't find videotapes in the stores anymore. I'm recording on old one, but after a while they wear out and jump around.

Feeling like a cranky dinosaur!
 

Gancho has been rating lower than Sortilegio (the highest by a significant margin) and ENDA, but its numbers still looked respectable, and the earlier show almost always has fewer viewers. I can't find a link to the current numbers but I saw ratings in December that indicated Gancho was doing fine. I wonder why they're in such a hurry to start HQEDNS.
 

I don't understand the hurry to bring HQEDNS to Univision. I mean, it is doing great in México, but Gancho was also doing good here and apparenlty they are not satisfied by its ratings in USA.

Jarocha
 

Sorry, what I mean is that there is no guarantee that HQEDNS would perform as great in USA as in México.

Jarocha
 

Let me echo Judy's plea for help. This link to Univision is for the English comments page. I've been watching TNs for quite some time and have seen this happen at least once before with a TN that featured a deaf-mute(but not really)female lead. I also vaguely recall another instance where that occurred. We love our Gancho. It is the funniest comedy I've seen in years in any language. It's every bit as funny as Cheers or Seinfeld. The characters are all endearing, even (especially?) the bad guys. We appreciate your help with this.

Carlos
 

My thoughts go out to Emilia, muy buenas suerte. I posted the English version of the Email form for Univision on the Sorti blog. I can't imagine why they would be shuffling things like this. Maybe it's content. If so, the new show must really be salty.

Carlos
 

Oops, my Sorti post ended up here. I'll just leave it.

Carlos
 

I sent a comment to Univision. They sure don't give you much space.
 

Sent my comment!

-Vivi in DC
 

I sent my comment. Could have used about 100 more characters! You're right Julia, they don't allow much space.
Thanks for the wishes, Carlos. I'm fine, just a wimp at the dentist and this was a long appointment. Thnk goodness for iPods and Jimmy Buffet!
 

Sent my comment.

Best,

Elna June
 

Emelia, so you're a Jimmy Buffett fan? We have a relatively new patient who is a roadie for JB. On his first visit he gave Darla a handful of souvenir guitar picks with a skull and crossed guitars on one side and on the other side:

Jimmy Buffett
2008
The Year of
Still Here

I think I like the Jerry Jeff Walker tee shirts a longtime patient who made promotional merchandise for JJW, Willie Nelson, and oddly Van Halen. He also gave me a bunch of nifty tee shirt for a hot air balloon festival in New Mexico, several different years. I guess they were left over.

I hope that your mouth feels better quickly.

Carlos
 

Elna June, Vivi, Emilia, Julia...thanks for sending comments! Muchas gracias. And Emilia, as the "queen of root canal" you have all my sympathy. Glad you had some easy Margaritaville listening to help you through. I pray a lot during appointments. Just wear the Lord's Prayer out to a nubbin!
 

I left my comment, too. Hope it has some effect. For those who can't find VHS blank tapes in local stores, Amazon.com has an 8 pack for about $16.00.
 

Our Target carries VHS tapes, probably others do as well.

Just got home from work and plan to write Univision. I'm so glad to hear all of you did too. Elna June, thank you for checking in and letting us know you're writing. That's very encouraging!
 

My comment's in. Insufficient space to allow the taking of a dark oath, alas.

Doesn't Twitter allow 140 characters? Univision's stingy w/ 125.
 

This comment has been removed by the author.
 

No kidding, Uni sure is stingy with their characters!

Sounds like a fun cooking series. I've heard great things about the chef.
 

Just sent my 2 cents worth to Univision. (2 cents worth was all the room they allowed!) I hope our feedback helps. I'm so sad that I won't be able to finish this telenovela. Of course, I will continue to read the excellent recaps, but I expect to have Gancho withdrawals...
 

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