Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Cuando Me Enamoro #171 Tuesday 12/20/11 “The Long Goodbye,” with comments by Raymond Chandler




Posted by ElnaJune

Wine Country, Ensenada, Mexico
Hacienda la Bonita

"The French have a phrase for it. The bastards have a phrase for everything and they are always right. To say goodbye is to die a little”.
Raymond Chandler
The Long Goodbye

Jero is well and truly gone and Renata prepares to leave La Bonita for the last time. Thus, our sad little episode begins with Renata in the kitchen swirling her wine glass remembering dear moments with Jero. After she remembers (and we in Viewerville review) a number of impossibly romantic scenes, she bids farewell to Jeronimo’s memories and moves into the sala to say goodbye to all the staff. Regina, Matias, Adri and Fido (the puppy will always be Fido to me) wait patiently in the background as Renata says goodbye to each of the staff and receives a gift or remembrance from each of them as well—medallions, prayers, novenas, baby clothes, blankets and their love.

Renata commends the care of all of La Bonita into the capable hands of Super Laz. (Oh, NO! ¡No puede ser! When Renata goes to hug Lazaro your recapper notices for the first time that Laz is not very tall. Drat! He’s going to have to wear shoe lifts if we go dancing).

Carlos, who may just have a brain in his head, asks that she send him word of any news of Jero. Renata does not want to go. “Then don’t abandon us”, says Matilde. “This is your home, Renata”.  I am grabbing for grandma’s linen hanky when in walks Augustin, trailed by Anibal.

“He was grey blonde and he looked sticky”.
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Six

I could learn to hate this guy without even knowing him. I could just look at him across the width of a cafeteria and want to kick his teeth in”.
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Six

Renata says goodbye to father and son just as the camera cuts to Lazaro rolling his eyes at Augustin.

Back in D.F.

Antonio arrives in Mexico and meets with Isidro. They examine the original birth certificate of Roberta.  Antonio’s smile reaches all the way to his eyes as he recalls that he promised Regina that he would help her find her daughter. Now he is keeping that promise. They are so happy! All the folks who participated in the search for Regina, Jr. will be happy at this development.

A group of women stand outside as Ines makes a speech at the Grand Re-opening of the Centro. “Finally, all is clarified. We are back to functioning and now when Regina arrives we will inaugurate the Foundation in honor of Andresito (Ines’ son) and all who face the same difficulties. Here no one surrenders!” Ines has tears in her eyes as the women in the audience clap.

“There is no trap so deadly as the trap you set for yourself”.
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Twelve

Hons and Cons say goodbye to Trojan Baby Sandra and her Mom and Dad, who have now completely forgiven Coni and are grateful that she took such good care of Sandra, as Honorio says, as if she were her only child. Coni points out (not so helpfully, I might add) that her sister-in-law didn’t get her child back for 24 years! Coni says she was never a Mother but she is going to turn her mother’s love into a grandmother’s love. She offers Sandra’s family all the things she bought for Sandra as a gift and they accept. (What else was she going to do with them?) Ahhhhh.

Later Hons and Cons reaffirm their love for one another as they take a walk and Hons assures Constanza that she will be a wonderful grandmother soon to Matias’ and Adri’s little nippers. Coni says goodbye to the idea of motherhood.  “Te amo Honorio”.
This poor character; she just got over a bad case of the stupids and now hubby gets to gently gloat that he has her back to himself. Geez. At least she has moved out of her usual pink ensemble today into something rather Orchid colored.  Goodbye to Coni’s pink!

Later, Adri, Fido and Matias go to Hons y Cons. They give them the news that they are engaged, Renata is pregnant and Jero is missing.

Valle de Guadelupe, Baja California

Alison and Anibal are outside walking and talking when he offers her a grape to eat. She refuses the offering and he calls her out on her eating behavior. He wants her to say goodbye to anorexia. He asks her to tell Kari or Matilde at the hacienda about her problem and get some help. It’s goodbye to food dumping for Alison, “Te lo prometo”, she commits to Anibal that she will talk to Kari.

Mexico City
The Lust Nest Apartment (in Julieta’s building)

“There wasn’t a photograph or a personal article of any kind in the place. It might have been a hotel room rented for a meeting or a farewell, for a few drinks and a talk, for a roll in the hay”.
The Long Goodbye  (Chapter One)

Roberta and Fina are talking. Fina has just come in waving an airline ticket and she tells Berta to prepare herself to say goodbye to Mexico—they are moving to Switzerland.  Why Switzerland, you may ask? Roberta wonders this as well and asked her charming mother.

"She opened a mouth like a firebucket and laughed.  That terminated my interest in her.  I couldn't hear the laugh but the hole in her face when she unzippered her teeth was all I needed."--The Long Good-bye (Chapter 13)

Well, they do not have an extradition treaty with Mexico so Fina and Roberta can go there and live safely. “And where did you get the money to buy first class tickets to Switzerland?” asks our Berta. “I got it through my association with Blancita,” Fina smiles. Josefina also mentions that she used the cash to pay for Coni’s incarceration. Berta, pretending to be sophisticated and world-weary says that she supposed that Fina’s connection with Blanca was an economic one. “What if I do not want to go”? Roberta shoots back. “It is your decision, hijita. But I am the only one who is really there for you”.

“The girl gave her a look which ought to have stuck at least four inches out of her back.” Chapter One, The Long Goodbye

Roberta tells Fina she could learn to forget about her mother. Fina replies that there are millions of reasons why Roberta should remember her mother. Plus, they will also be VERY rich.

Later, back in la Cucina—the Center of the La Bonita universe—we see that Alfonsina has begun to soften her heart toward Ezekiel. She is talking with Kari, who tells her that Roberta lied about Ezekiel raping her. Kari tells her she was wrong. Alfonsina says that lately her feelings of anger and hate have been falling away. She says that she is nostalgic for Zeke and smiles sadly as she remembers her husband. (NOK, we need those t-shirts ASAP). She says “Nadie es perfecto, Kari.” Plus she wants the kids to remember their father kindly; he was an ordinary man but not bad man. She misses him. Alfonsina has come back into her body, thank goodness. For a while there I thought she has been possessed by a walk-in.

“I like Mexicans, as a rule, but I don’t like their jails”.
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Twelve

Padre Severino goes to the jail to visit a beaten-down looking Nesme. He came at the request of Kari. He tells Nesme about Ezekiel’s death. Nesme asks if Severino is SURE it was suicide? It seems to Alvaro that this was very convenient for Augustin Dunant. “Because,” Alvaro says, “With me in jail and Ezekiel dead this eliminates the testimony of those who know about Dunant’s dirty deeds!

“She had that fine-draw intense look that is sometimes neurotic, sometimes sex-hungry, and sometimes just the result of drastic dieting.”
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Twenty-Two

Roberta and some financial functionary are meeting in German’s offices. There is an amount missing (faltante de dinero) from the Moneterubbio accounts. “What is the amount?”, asks German. He immediately flourishes and pen, takes out his checkbook and writes a personal check to cover the difference. Roberta smiles.

“They say that lust makes a man old, but keeps a woman young. They say a lot of nonsense.”
The Long Goodbye, Chapter 12

After the clerk leaves, Roberta looks at German under her lashes. He assures her that nothing has changed. He is still delighted with her and her caresses. He says he would do anything for her. Like leaving your wife?” Berta asks. He is sure that he is going to give her everything she wants.

Somewhere in D.F. Marina answers her door and finds—to her surprise—Brother Antonio! Antonio wastes no time is confronting Marina about Jeronimo’s whereabouts; everyone knows that she and Linares came back to Mexico together. Her Uncle is very worried. Saul told them what happened. Marina swears that Jero is not with her and did not leave Tijuana with her.

Antonio looks very nervous as he grocks that if Jero is not with Marina, WHERE IS HE? Antonio fears that something very bad has happened. Marina calls Saul but he doesn’t answer his phone. Later they go to the Hospital where Saul is supposed to work, but, NO Saul! He is suspended for an indefinite amount of time.

“I had a mental picture of the kind of eighteen-room shack that would go with a few of the Potter millions, not to mention decorations by Duhaux in the latest subphallic symbolism.”
 The Long Goodbye, Chapter Three

Renata and her family return to the House that Fina decorated. It is time for the family to tell Renata that Josefina has escaped. Renata asks if they are sure that her mother got away? Matias says that she escaped in the confusion of the fire. Once again, Regina flashes on the maid’s reported sighting of Roberta and Fina together, outside the Gonzo Palace. She looks very troubled. Renata insists she is much better, very strong. She says she is fine as she buries her face in her papa’s shoulder and sobs. Again, Gonzo wants everyone to be very careful.

At La Cruz

“Inside he’s as ruthless as a Gestapo thug.”
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Four

“A sudden ferocious scowl twisted his face into dark knots. The blood darkened his forehead.”
The Long Goodbye Chapter Seven

“Where were you?” screams Augustin to Anibal. Today Augustin is wearing a white pig leather coat inside the house. With this and little other ceremony Augustin throws Anibal out of the house. Adding insult to injury Dunant throws his son a handful of cash on the way out the door so he can get back to Aguas Calientes safely. Anibal doesn’t want Auguie’s money, tosses the wad of cash on the floor and walks out.

Adri, Fido, and Matias go to Hons y Cons. They give H/C the news: they are engaged; Renata is pregnant; and Jero is missing.

“I’m sorry for her. She’s such an absolute bitch.”
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Four

“I have no doubt that I have a lot of luck,” says our brainless
Berta as she heads back into her office. “ I am going to have everything that I want,” she gloats as she leans back in the desk chair. The phone rings and it is Regina.  “I have to ask you a question,” says Regina. “Pepa has not contacted you, has she?” “Don’t worry, Mami,” Roberta lies through her teeth. “You are the first person I would tell.” Roberta chuckles as she rings off.

At La Bonita

Alison is caring for baby Luz when she confesses to Kari that she has a problem. “It’s about your eating”, says our prescient Kari. “I don’t want to be fat”, Alison replies, “That’s why I don’t eat.” But she is happy! “You can’t be happy if you don’t eat”, says Kari. “Alison, you need some special help. This is a very grave situation”. “But I don’t want to go to a clinic, cries Alison. “Then we will look for help in Ensenada”, Kari replies. They hug.

Antonio calls Padre Severino. Marina is not with Jeronimo. Saul lied.

“I don’t have any home life.”
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Three

Anibal comes to La Bonita and Alison with the bad news that Augustin threw him out of the house. Anibal has to go back to Aguas Calientes to look for a job. Alison asks Anibal not to leave. But Anibal feels he has no other option. Very sad music plays as the teens hug,

D.F., Two Balls Palacio
Renata, Coni and Regina talk at Gonzo’s Palace. Renata wants to work at the Center with Regina and Coni. They will work together!

EM Offices
Roberta is back on the cell phone in her office. She is talking with Fina and together they carress their recent successes with malignant pleasure. “Regina will not have rest quietly for the rest of her days,” Fina cackles. Roberta is telling Fina how happy she is that Jero has abandoned Renata when German walks in and eavesdrops on the conversation. “Jeronimo doesn’t even know she is pregnant. And you and I are seen to be doing nothing to Renata”, the little beast says, as German sneaks out the door without ever making his presence known to Roberta.

“They didn’t search the house, which seemed careless of them.”
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Six

“I love my husband,” she said simply.
The Long Goodbye, Chapter Twenty-Four

Antonio makes his way to Gonzo’s Palace of Two Balls, and gives Regina and Renata the news that Saul lied. Jeronimo never came to Mexico with Marina. Where is Jeronimo?

In the avances we see Antonio say, “No esta in Valle de Guadelupe”. We see a hysterical Renata order Carlos to call the police to start a search for Jero immediately. We see what appears to be an unconscious Jero being rolled down an arroyo. This does not look good, dear viewers.

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Comments:
Oh. My. God. Elna June I LOVE how you incorporated quotes from The Long Goodbye. Ya gotta love hard-boiled, and clearly it works very well with our little show. After this we can no longer deny the excessively seedy side of some of our characters. Wheeee!

Alfonsina says Nadie es perfecto? It's about time coming from her. Sheesh.

“I like Mexicans, as a rule, but I don’t like their jails”. Bwaahahahahha!! EJ you're killing me.

The sweetest scene of the night was Gonzo knowing how much Renata was suffering. He was the one person in the room who knew Miss-I'm-OK needed a hug. I almost lost it during that scene.

Hooray for Anibal for tossing Augi-hole's money back at him.

My nomination for most poetic line of the evening: "together they carress their recent successes with malignant pleasure." Well done Amiga.

Ay ay ay, not only was Jero rolled down the hill, I believe it was dear Augustin who kicked him down. As we suspected, foul play is afoot.

EJ, thank you so much for your recap. Not only was it brilliant but we also got a Spanish AND an American Lit lesson. GOAL!
 

Excellente, Elna June! Augustin is absolutely spot-on as a film noir villain and this was brilliant.

Right down to revealing himself just when he thinks he's won. Makes me wonder whether he will meet with their usual final fate.

Roberta tambien. Germy's eavesdropping is going to be very productive, indeed. Surely at the next encounter with femme fatale Roberta he'll think "She shot me a glance I felt in my hip pocket."
 

This was absolutely brilliant EJ!!! I had to reread this just to enjoy the wonderful inserts against plot. Who knew Chandler was channeling the denizens of CME when he wrote so long ago. I am especially fond of the Augie connection.

There should have been warnings before each episode lately to have kleenex or hankies at the ready. Kept trying to not cave to the sniffles, but that Gonzo/Nata hug just was too much. Now that's parenting!

I'm afraid I spent too much time watching that adorable puppy during the filler/hey, we're home scenes with Adri//Matias. I had a beagle puppy just like that once. Cue the kleenex again.

Love that Kari is now becoming den mother of the gang in La Bonita.( Yeah, Alfi, you want your kids to remember their father well--after you screamed him to hell in front of them. I digress.) Rather fitting considering she married Superman. Speaking of whom, he needs to get going and don that cape to save our hero. I see another Carlos/Laz rode trip... Carlos drives, Laz saves. Works for me.

I had to hide my eyes over that creative financing scene. Per the Mexico controller I was at the meetings with last week, things are a bit more strict than they are putting in the plot.(I just had to ask--and he got a chuckle out it.) Put this Berta stuff down to a privately owned company.

Think I'll read this one more time before heading to work.Just love it!
 

Raymond Chandler -- stroke of genius. Those descriptions that you cited, Elna June, were perfect.

So German knows even more about Berta's devious side. What will he do with the information? He's shown apparent loyalty to Gonzo as well as total sleaziness toward all women. Will he use this to keep Berta under his thumb and in his bed? Will he be shocked by this viciousness as he is not shocked by common venality like skankhood and theft? Will he turn her in (eventually) out of loyalty -- or will he accidentally let something slip?)

So now we know what purpose there is in bringing Nesme back into the plot. He may lead to further investigation of Zeke's faux-suicide.

Oh EJ --Laz is not very tall. Drat! He’s going to have to wear shoe lifts if we go dancing). LOL and--Antonio’s smile reaches all the way to his eyes. Yes! Remember when we all thought he had lizard eyes?

I also loved your list of thing to which someone said goodbye tonight --
--the staff
--trojan baby
--anorexia (or Anibal tries to get Alison to)
--Coni's pink (for one day at least)

And, of course, Anibal saying goodbye to Cruz de Amor and to Alison (I don't think that one is going to stick) He did it with style, didn't he? Throwing that cash back in Auggie's face. Was Auggie's smirk one of satisfaction or grudging respect?

Shat a jewel you have crafted hre EJ.

Güera
 

Elna June: I'm beyond impressed with your meshing The Long Goodbye quotes into your excellent recap. This was clever and innovative. What a perfect theme. As Sylvia noted, "we can no longer deny the excessively seedy side...".

I missed the episode but thanks to your marvelous detail, feel I didn't miss a thing.

"Malignant pleasure", "white pig leather coat" and "little beast" were among my favorites.

I adore Luis Gatica too and chuckled at "He’s going to have to wear shoe lifts if we go dancing". Daisy, I would also like to see Carlos and Super Laz back in action as "Carlos drives, Laz saves." :)

I never thought I would say this but I do hope they find Jero. Simply for Nata's sake - I just want her to stop crying - she's all too believable.

I'm glad I missed Augie's further abuse of Anibal. I think his fate should be that he gets smothered with all of his coats and windbreakers. Just forget the pillows.

Diana
 

Oh my...can we just put the entire recap on the sidebar? I loved every word...both yours and Chandler's. An absolute delight to savor on this gloomy rainy morning in Ohio (the Zoloft capital of the world).

Who cares if Laz is short? Dance away! And if his head is on your chest, is that so bad? I think I could cope.

Your musings about Alfonsina were a hoot..."possessed by a walk-in". Indeed. Her storming about Ezquiel didn't seem particularly believable at the time and her sudden turnaround didn't either. But I guess she served a purpose for the over-arching theme of Forgiveness which is present in all these stories.

Palace of Two Balls is the winner for me, and that Chandler quote about the frigid decor in both home and apartment. Ugh.

Now, on Constanza's subtle color change (yes, I'm obsessed ever since Daisynjay talked about the significance of costume.) Is the deeper orchid hue supposed to suggest a new stage in her life? More mature, less candy cane little girl? And yes, I too was annoyed by Honorio's delight in being her no. 1 focus again...but that's a realistic attitude for a husband and he's been consistent throughout in that outlook. Those in-the-future "little nippers" better not take too much of Constanza's time or he'll be grousing again.

UA..."she shot me a glance I felt in my hip pocket". Thanks for adding to the great literary mix. Great line.

Now out into the pouring rain for me.
 

Amazing Elna June! The quotes you pulled out for each scene were perfect.

Well, the truth is out. Jero is not with Marina. But that preview of a very bloody, unconscious Jero being rolled down a hillside did not look good. Yikes!

I got teary during the Nata-Gonzo scene too. He may be clueless about the major bad stuff going on around him sometimes, but he can be very good about those little personal moments. He did show some of that cluelessness last night. "If Fina contacted Berta she would have told us, especially after what Fina did to Gina at the wedding!" Ha! No one in that room was buying that, not even Gina by the look on her face. And Matias said what they were all thinking out loud. I think Gonzo will be more hurt by the truth of Berta's betrayal than anyone else when it comes out. I hope Germy helps expose her. He already has dirt on her.

I'm glad Alfie has regained her senses and folks are thinking about getting to the truth about what happened to Zeke. I'm glad Nesme is actually serving a purpose because he knows Augie so well. Investigate people!
 

I actually don't watch this show (I'm usually not home for it), but damn...now I have to DVR a couple of episodes and pick up a book on the way home. Thanks, Elna June! :D
 

First let me correct an earlier typo -- I make so many but this one cannot stand. I meant to say WHAT a jewel you have crafted EJ. -- that typo is not only crude but it would be so painful for you, the lovely Elna June.


Let me add my admiration for Gonzalo's parenting skills. The way he just looked her in the eye and saw through her bravado until she owned up to needing his hug ... so caring. I agree that his big soft heart will break when he learns the truth about Roberta.

I also enjoyed all over again the scene of Renata making love to that glass of wine as a stand in for Jero -- sniffing, caressing, but never drinking. I was so upset to see her pregnant self with that glass in hand until I saw the way she seduced it as a surrogate. ¡Guau!

It's been days now that Jeronimo has been missing -- and from the previews it looks as though he's bound and bloodied at the bottom of a ravine. How long can he survive? Yes! Get Super Laz on the case!

Güera
 

Looks like I missed quite the Comment Party yesterday. Can't wait to read it! Cheryl, I am glad you survived the storm. It couldn't have veered up to Utah's ski resorts?

EJ - I am so looking forward to lazing over your re-cap and the comments tonight. I am just heading out for the day, but had to
GAAAACKKKK over Jero rolling down the hill! OMG, amigos! He did NOT look good.

If there were ever a way to make that scene enjoyable is to send Adri's Beba Beagle back to Ensenada and let it catch Jero's scent and have the puppy find him!

Not that it really matters, and perhaps someone has already said this, but I think the Crib Man is Antonio with Marina giving him a tour before he leaves. I am still rooting for love to blossom there.

I am mezmerized by Anibal's piercing eyes. Not many men/actors really have that. Charlie Sheen, who I think is an arse, has it and it really is jarring to get locked into. Way back when he was in Ferris Beuller he had that stare. Now I see it with Anibal. Why didn't he say something to Nata before she left?

NOK, Sales Manager - Love your list!

Julia, Vivi, Emilia - Those beanies are AWESOME!

Rosemary la Otra
 

Great recap, something wonderfully different, thank you.

Questions: I was wondering with German, will he walk in on Fina, and will Fina again become Mommy Dearest and kill her daughter's lover? Will this finally turn Roberta against her? They seemed to be talking about history repeating itself last night.

Where did they keep Jero all that time?

Now that Constanza has relaxed about being a mom, will she get pregnant at this stage in her life?
 

EJ! What a masterpiece! I have started but really swamped at work and home. . .looking for a quiet moment when demands are low (I can dream, can't I?) to savor this. Love it and you are doing a good episode very proud, my dear. WOW!

Lila
 

EJ--You laid a hard-boiled golden egg. What a tour de force (as the French phrase would be written). Be back later.
NOK
 

My goodness, Nellie, what a thought. Wouldn't THAT put Honorio's knickers in a twist?

I imagine that the preview scene of Jero tumbling down that hill (wearing the same shirt he wore when he fell in the waterfall eons ago) will turn out to be a flashback and that he has beenat the bottom of that ravine since the day of the almost re-wedding.

Güera
 

oh my, Elna June, you've outdone yourself. This is sheer genius. What a clever idea and perfectly executed. Wow!

I was hoping that Jerry would be punished for his sins before this is over, but gee whiz, that last scene in the advances... well, that's a bit more than I had in mind. Yikes! Now I'm all... poor Jerry.

I kept expecting Coni to offer to babysit little Sandra, but... nopis.

I'm really glad to see that these writers are not treating anorexia nervosa lightly. Fortunately I've had very little first hand experience with this most severe manifestation of eating disorders which is a challenge for even the most experienced experts.

Years ago, for three years each Fall I had an ongoing battle with the sponsor/coach of the Spring High drill team over the weekly Thursday weigh-in for the girls to see if they would be allowed to participate in the Friday performance at the football game. One of my patients was a basket case because of this. I was never more happy to see a youngster graduate from high school.

Though I was not successful in my efforts to get the practice discontinued at that time, it was abandoned a short time later. Now I beam at some of the little chunksters who currently participate.

Carlos
 

EJ this was great. The Chandler quotes described so many of our characters so well! And I too feel sorry for Connie. Her desire to be a mother still has not been addressed.

ITA w/Vivi (great beanie BTW, Emilia is quite the knitter) that though Gonzo can be clueless about most things, he is sensitive to his Renata's feelings. And he will be crushed when he finds out Roberta remains the bad seed.

I'm thinking German might get killed (by Fina) if he's not careful with the info he now has.

Yeah Anibal is out of the house and safe from his psycho father. Next we need our Padre of the loose lips to share what he knows with others so Augie can be exposed and Zeke redeemed.
 

Super busy day and might not have time to comment more, but I read the recap on the way in and LOVED it. The quotes are genius; so many other clever gems, too. Thanks, Elna June.
 

Elna June, such a soaring, magisterial effort! You made it look like Raymond Chandler wrote his book with the hopes that one day you would use parts of it in this way.

I don't guess Chandler's Marlowe wouldn't think much of our TN, what with all the jail time our characters have logged.

Your "Two Balls Palace" made me think back to the '60s when men in Smokie the Bear hats would scream at us to "SOUND OFF LIKE YOU'VE GOT A PAIR."

It's not clear to me over what period of time this "where's Jero" subject took place, but somebody better have an IV bag for dehydration when they find him.

Everyone looks great in Emilia's beanies.

David
 

EJ: Fantabulous recap. I love the Raymond Chandler bits.

I was going to stop FF through scenes during the final week, but last night found myself not wanting to miss anything. I watched every scene and I think understood pretty much what was going on. That’s not due to my Spanish skills, but to the actors’ talents.

I get how Auggie covered himself re: someone finding Marina and verifying Jero did not leave with her: he “killed” Jero. My first thought was that he’d been out in the elements too long to survive. Then I remembered we’ve been missing him for five + days, in TN land it’s only been a couple of days (?). Still not good, but survivable.

Loved the look Gina gave to Auggie in the goodbye scene. Don’t know what he said, but she didn’t like it.

So Auggie kicked out Anibal once Renata left. The guy’s ego is beyond enormous. Doesn’t he realize it would be quite easy for Renanta to find that out—unless, they’re all going to continue protecting her from knowing what he’s really like.

Glad Coni apologized to Regina for her the risk she put the center in. Isn’t purple the color of evil in TNs?

Yay for Kari getting Alison the professional help we all know she needs.

Pleasantly surprised Marina didn’t weep and wail about the missing Jero.

Now on to reading everyone’s comments. Can’t wait!!!!

Robey
 

Can't add much more to the fabulous recap or the right-on comments.

Will have to borrow the Long Goodbye from the PL when I get back.

Must start emptying the CME warehouse of certain "past due" items:

> Collection of butterflies and hearts to release around Ali and Ani (comes in a reusable keepsake tin)

> Loved your t-shirt but I now want one that says "I Odio Augie".

> I may need an official Emilia brand beanie. They're so highly recommended! I've been trying to knit myself a beanie (well, a hat) and it isn't going well.

> In lieu of trials by jury, we are offering you Julia’s Death Panels

> Let us be proud of being novela aficianados! We need a t-shirt "Proud Novelista/o" or something like that!!

> Emilia may I order a TN beanie in the proper colors for an aging redhead? Any green would do.

> Vacation condo for rent: has "a corner room with a balcony view of the gaping maw of an eternal infernal canyon of flames

> “Spanish language” version of the Etch-a-Sketch

> Director’s cut DVD of the Wizard of Oz, includes outtakes of Ray Bolger singing, “If I only had a Brain.”

> Used horse wreaths from Churchill Downs (need to be put back together again)

> Gift packs of Shiner Bock for our Dr. Carlos

> New line of eye make up for men, “The Guyliner”

> Tourist destination pamphlet—El Jardin de las Locas. This botancial oasis is for shriveled up blossoms

> Arely cured wine, gift packaged in goatskin for easy mailing to Dr. Nesme

> Little girls’ dress-up accessories, headbands -vs- lipgloss

> Shakespeare quotes engraved on a cudgel

> A flowered red bandana gag to stuff in Miss Prissypants’ mouth—we’re tired of hearing her say MiCharlie

> Real fencing lessons for Anibal

> No DNA test for Anibal after all – because he wears his jacket all the time! I can just imagine him just after birth in the incubator wearing a smart fleece-lined B-17 bomber jacket.

> Chema line of Black Caterpiller, Cheek-Sweeping Lashes for men and women

> Pocket guide to bilingual storyline “Los Otros/The Others”

> Autographed copies of the ode to Marina love poem, Third Rate Romp. If ordered right away, we will send you a copy of the hit single, “Third Rate Romance,” at no extra charge

NOK, in charge of dumping
 

NOK: "> A flowered red bandana gag to stuff in Miss Prissypants’ mouth—we’re tired of hearing her say MiCharlie." Amen!!!

R la O: "Not that it really matters, and perhaps someone has already said this, but I think the Crib Man is Antonio with Marina giving him a tour before he leaves. I am still rooting for love to blossom there." Haven't we seen Marina and the crib scene that had been shown in the previews? It was before Antonio showed up. Maybe a flashback?

Robey
 

I think crib man could have been anyone, but Tony. It definitely happened before Tony showed up. Marina is back in her old life now. It could have been Saul or any friend of hers, or it could have been the sales/delivery guy or a neighbor who helped her. It doesn't matter. It was just meant to put doubt into the minds of us viewers, although most of us either knew Jero would never just be hanging out with Marina like that, and/or could tell that it was an imposter based on how well he DIDN'T fill out his suit jacket. :)
 

The crib scene clearly was added only to drive the Norte Americanos nuts.

Say, Elna Jung, you're one classy dame. I love the old film noir stuff. Now I have an urge to go find a trench coat and fedora. Two paragraphs in and I was hearing Oscar Peterson playing "Laura" somewhere in the back of the room. Brilliant.

Daisynjay, I'm glad you were able to restore our faith in Mexican accounting practices.

NOK and Robey ( and anyone else) you might send mi esposa a note at ODuck1 at aol punta com re your request for beanies. I think she has a "little" yarn left around here.
 

I haven't read the recap or the comments yet - that will be my afternoon treat when we get back from a slog in the rain...

Mike says NOK and Robey want beanies - yay! Y'all and anybody else just send me your address (and name??) and I'll get started. EMartin105 at gmail.com. Any takers for the rust colored orphan beanie I found under the yarn??
 

Oh, and David, I remember those days quite well. SSgt McElrath (you never forget that guy, do you?) was more fond of "I can't hear ya, girls" than your guy's exhortation.

And to brag a little, if I may: this Monday was the 25th anniversary of my last cigarette.
 

OK, mi Reina sez EMartin105 at gmail. We hear and we obey, mi Amor.
 

I see Mike got here before me. (We are sitting back-to-back! Either e-mail address will work, I'm not picky. And, yes, there is a little yarn left - in three large plastic bags, the kind king-size pillows come in!
 

Good Morning All:

I am just returned from early meetings to find such lovely comments. Thank you all. I am so glad folks enjoyed the recap.

Sylvia:
I was so moved by the Gonzo and Regina scene. Finally, the girl gets some man-love, if only from her papa. I just love Chandler, and I am glad that he is now recognized for his literary genius, not just his style of writing.

Thank you, Urban, for your comments. Loved the nod to Chandler.

Daisynjay:
So glad that the financial situation in Mexican business is not as dire as it would appear from the practices in this TN.Loved your comment, "Carlos drives/Laz saves". Very funny, amiga.

Guera: What WILL Germy do with this new information? He is one mixed up so-and-so, isn't he? To tell on Bertie is to implicate himself in her little financial irregularities, and to take himself off of the lust train. What will he do?
Diana: Thanks for your kind words. Isn't Gatica just the dreamiest? I LOVE his scenes with Kari; his whole heart shines through those lush brown eyes. LOL at the idea of Augie smotheredunder the weight of his own coats. Hahhahahaha.

EJ
 

C'mon, Mike. let's go to Trader Joe's! My word verification is Prattle. Are we doing that???
 

Mike: I love Laura. One of my all time fav movies. Another great film noir: Cry Danger with Dick Powell.

Emilia: I'd love a beanie, I'll e-mail you.

Robey
 

Mike: I would say that is cause for much bragging. Good for you!!

Emilia, I may be emailing soon, but I'm also leaning to that rust colored beanie. Sounds too cute.

Love the "Laura" reference. Now all we need is Gonzo in his flash-back Alain Delon/Robert Mitchum get up, and we'd be perfect!! Cool idea for a new TN - film noir version.
 

Judy B:
You are so right, who cares about Lazaro's height? He could stand on my feet and I would still enjoy him. Lucky Kari.

On the color thing, I do think that somehow the orchid/lavender/purple color represents a change into maturity for Coni. This whole TN she has struggled to be age appropriate—her flirtation with Chema, her obsession with Amparito, no? Perhaps the writers are not completely consistent but they are sending us color signals with some of the characters, I think.

So sorry about the weather in Ohio! I hope you don't get too much snow right before the Holidays.

Thanks, Vivi, for your words. So glad you enjoyed the recap. By the bye, you are stunning in your new Emilia beanie.You have inspired me to get a shot of myself in my beanie up today.

Bill C: So nice to hear from you. I am sure you will enjoy Chandler and Marlowe grows on you throughout the books. Glad you enjoyed the recap!

R la O, look forward to hearing from you later.

Nellie, thanks for your comments! You pose some GREAT questions—Germy and Fina seem headed for a direct collision, don't they? Having your mother murder a SECOND boyfriend could somewhat weaken the mother-daughter bond, I would think. Wry grin. And Coni getting pregnant now? Oh, that would be a scream and such justice for Honorio. Is that why Coni protested last night that a baby is always a blessing, now matter when it comes?

Where's Waldo, I mean Jero???
 

Wow, what a bunch of great comments today! It's all Elna June's fault, hee. Oh my, I do love Laura, one of my favorite all-time movies. I listen to a fantastic radio show on Saturday mornings, The Norman Bates Memorial Soundtrack Show, (kfjc.org) and the DJ often plays the theme song.

EJ, I used to read a lot of Raymond Chandler but haven't done so in a while. I'm off to the library to get The Long Goodbye. I think his Philip Marlowe tales are my favorites, but lets not forget that Chandler also wrote some classic screenplays as well.
 

Oh my, oh my, Elna June what a brilliant tapestry you have woven. I'll be back to comment later but had to join the chorus of praise and awe. This is so fabulous.
 

Just read The Big Sleep a couple of months ago and, of course, love the movie.

I don't think I asked this before, but what was the deal with the jail guy manhandling Coni when she was released.

Robey
 

Amigo Carlos:
Thanks for the positive feedback. It means so much coming from one of our master recappers. Like you, I am glad the writers have begun to fill in the blanks a bit on the anorexia storyline. Your story of the drill team and WEIGHING IN? ¡No puede ser! That was barbaric! I am not surprised to find that you were on the side of the angels in that fight.

I have a daughter and a sister who had/have anorexia nervosa. Both are (now) maintaining well and both are kind enough to share their stories of overcoming with others who may be struggling with the disorder. Kind medical practitioners like yourself saved their lives.

David:
Thanks for your blush-worthy words. I love the word magisterial. Big grin. Dehydration? In Baja? O yeah, you are so right. How long could Jero last do you think?

Mike:
Isn't film noir wonderful? Half the fun of writing this recap was re-reading "The Long Goodbye". Such a sad book, with betrayal as the beating-heart-theme of the story. Congrats on your Silver Anniversary of being Cigarette-free!

EJ
 

I knew it, I knew it!! I knew Mi Jero would never have left Nata. But why is he being rolled into a ditch?? Oh no - please tell me he's alive. Please.

Now if only Anibal would spill the refried frijoles (but give some to Alison first please) and let everyone know that Augucreep and Saul were plotting and planning. Come on Anibal!

And what is this reference to Two Balls Palace? oh and I just downloaded The Long Goodbye to my ipad. Although I'll never be able to read it without thinking of all the CME people. As this winds down, I'm thinking of how I will miss them. :(

Mary
 

Carlos: I always smile in anticipation of reading your comments and today was no exception: "Now I'm all... poor Jerry" had me laughing out loud. Could I possibly detect a small trace of cynicism?

But on a serious note, I want to thank you for your thoughtful story concerning the school weigh ins. Educators should be building children's self worth and self esteem, not destroying it by tying it to a number. I'm happy to hear the practice was discontinued. Of course, you made me smile as usual at: "Now I beam at some of the little chunksters who currently participate." God bless 'em, every one.

Diana
 

Mary:

In Gonzolo's LARGE home in Mexico City, which he used to share with and was ostensibly decorated by Josefina, are what appear to be two large stone balls near the main staircase. Our Cap'n Sylvia first called our attention to them and since then I have been obsessing about them as well. Hence, Two Balls Palace.

EJ
 

Mike, I forgot to congratulate you on your notable anniversary. You are truly an inspiration.

Carlos, your weigh-in story made me shudder. No wonder the high school years were such a nightmare for many of us. I come from a family of educators and Diana's statement that they should help build self-esteem is spot-on. Good educators do their job for the love of it. Fact.
 

Mary -- Now if only Anibal would spill the refried frijoles (but give some to Alison first please) Oh yeah!

Thanks everyone for reminding me of one of my favorite films ever & its haunting theme (Laura, that is)

Güera
 

Elna June - thanks so much for the balls info - I'll start paying attention to the decor. See this is what happens when you can't speak the language and you have to concentrate on every expression without taking your eyes off them for one second. I missed the balls completely!
 

Emilia--My head was not designed for Beanies, but I would be honored to wear one of yours to watch telenovelas by. Multi-lingual, multi-colored, left-over yarn would suit my personality. Will send you a request by separate mail.

Robey--About the man-handling of Coni...my comment from a couple of days ago might shed some light for you (haha)..."the uniformed guardia roughed her up a bit--maybe he's sad to see the only occupant of his jail go free. OTOH, Corinna is about to register as a huesped real soon."

Mary--Did you ever see the new Action Figure the CME Emporium rushed into production? ...a Jero fully-jointed action figure, complete with his little suit, looking perfect, with that perfect hair, smiling his perfect smile (comes with his socks on)
NOK
 

Mary--The two large balls are for sale in the CME Emporium. You can get them graduated in size, so you have a nice perspective up the stairs, OR both the same size so you can admire them side-by-side.
NOK
 

@Mike...let me congratulate you also. I hope one day to celebrate the anniversary of my son quitting the weed. I talked my youngest daughter into quitting in college, but son was unreachable during those years. And still is...on that subject anyway. So I keep my lip zipped and my prayers going.
 

LOL

NOK - Yes I did see the action figure doll - waiting to put in my order - can't wait. Little suit and all!

NOK - While the CME Emporium may carry large balls, right now I'm not in the market for such large balls, however should the need arise I know where to find them. Did I mention that you are too good to me?

Mary
 

NOK: ..."the uniformed guardia roughed her up a bit--maybe he's sad to see the only occupant of his jail go free. OTOH, Corinna is about to register as a huesped real soon."--that would explain it. Or Coni got on his nevers crying.

Mike: Congrats.

Robey
 

EJ, you recap was killer. I loved it Thanks, amiga. My next stop is the Kindle store.

I can't compete with all the clever comments. Nellie, it would be a hoot if Connie turns up pregnant. Perfect for her and I'd pay money to see Honorio's face at the news.

The writers have surprised us quite often by not sticking to telenovela rules. You don't suppose they will kill off Jero?? Nah! We'd have to do an intervention for our poor Mary. He'll be fine, Mary.....
 

Emilia: Jero to die!!!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOO!! Don't even put it out there! However, we do have enough couples to participate in the obligatory finale wedding extravaganza.

No!!! That would be too cruel of a thing to do to Nata.

Robey
 

Emlia:
Thanks for your comment. You will enjoy the Kindle!

Mary, I would be shocked if Jero was dead. Very badly injured, dehydrated, at death's door, with amnesia unable to remember who done this to him—those would all be likely TN plots. But dead, I do not think so. Renata just loves him too much and has suffered too much already. She deserves some happiness, after all, according to TN rules.

I think your boy will be pushed to the edge but will rally and make it. No spoiler, of course, just TN Beanie-logic. I sure would like to know where he has been the last few days.
 

Emilia: You are not kidding - you'd have to do an intervention!! As it is after this TN is over I'm going to be like Nata for days - possibly weeks crying over him. When will I see him again? :(

Elna June: Well I guess now we do know where he's been - in that ditch. I hope he's not too cold. Do you think maybe there were some leaves covering him up? He was only wearing that plaid shirt. I sure hope it hasn't rained. Oh and please God, no amnesia - anything but amnesia.

NOK: Where's my little Jero doll?

Mary
 

Mary: You're totally cracking me up!!

Robey
 

Poor Mary, I think you need a blankie along with your Jero doll...
 

Emilia: How about Jero and a blankie?? ;)

Robey: You think I'm joking??
 

Oh, you want the REAL Jero?? Well, why the heck not, eh?
 

I'll take a Super Laz. And a Jacinto (MEPS).

Emilia: re: my e-mail. Learning to spell would be a good thing. I meant penguin.

Robey
 

Emilia: Yes, the real Jero - I mean taking a doll would just be wierd!! LOL

I say if you're going to dream, dream BIG!

Mar.
 

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