Friday, February 07, 2014
Lo Que La Vida Me Robo 63 - 6 February, 2013 - Maria Plots Murder
Maria Plots
Murder
“There
are glances of hatred that stab, and raise no cry of murder.”
George Eliot
Maria’s Perspective
I have been reading a lot, especially on the topics of
war, planning and strategy, psychology, and Mexican oil production. No, of course
I am not planning an act of domestic terrorism—do not be concerned or report me
to the authorities! I mean merely to make the point that I have a good
parochial school education to grade 12, and I am not stupid. I am well spoken.
I can read. I can think. I can plan.
Alejandro got me an iPad when we went on our trip and
I had a lot of time to myself. Ale wasn’t feeling quite himself on our travels,
so, with my new credit cards—Bless you, Alej!—I downloaded a bunch of books
from Amazon and sat by the pool and studied. I asked him for suggestions on the
topics I mentioned earlier and he absent-mindedly suggested Sun-Tzu’s “The Art
of War”, Machiavelli’s ‘The Prince’, and
some books on psychology. I found my own books on the history of the Pemex
pipelines.
I am not worried about Ale’s grouchiness. To tell the
truth, he has always been a moody man. But, he is MY moody man, and I have
always been able to cheer him out of his sulks in the past—I can do it again.
Nothing has really changed. I just have to continue to be patient. And to plan.
I am not crazy, you know. I have not lost touch with reality. I know
that Alejandro had his reasons for marrying that vaca rubia Montserrat. But
they were stupid reasons. I TOLD him he was not going to fit in with the rich
idiots in Aguazul by marrying one of their princesses. His life was meant to be
on the Hacienda, with me. Believe me, I reminded him of that many times on our
long trip!
I will admit, at first, I acted impulsively and
perhaps unwisely when La Rubia came to Hacienda Almonte. When Tio Juventino
said that La Rubia was a problem. I agreed. When he suggested that she be
removed from the scene, I thought that this made sense. What, should I just
watch while I see a rattlesnake make a den in the home of my mate? Por supuesto
que no! I grew up on the rancho and I have common sense. On the Hacienda when
you see a rattlesnake, you kill it on the spot.
I did not understand about strategy or planning then,
and I offered some assistance to my Uncle without thinking it through. So La
Estupida was caught in the act of escape and she blamed me for her problem.
Thank God, Ale believed me first. He can always trust me to do what is best for
him.
I will admit, I HATE Montserrat Mendoza and her whole
scheming, lying, whorish family. They only paid attention to Alejandro when he
became rich and started spending time in town. None, of them care a bit about
Ale—especially that lying tramp Montserrat. I have always loved Alejandro and
he has always loved me. Montserrat knows it—that is why she tried to separate
Ale and me. She wronged me, you can see how it was, can’t you? She took what
was not given. She tried to steal Alejandro Almonte from me. He has always been
mine. He always will be. And she will pay for that wrong. I will see to it.
More important even that doing me wrong, she made a
fool of Alejandro by installing her lover, Jose Luis Alvarez, under our roof.
Then she got pregnant by him and tried to pass the creature off as Alejandro’s.
That cannot be tolerated. Montserrat’s bastard must not be born.
Motive
“Murder
offers the promise of vast relief. It is never unisexual”.
Norman Mailer
Today. Montserrat’s lying dung beetle of a mother
came to the Hacienda. Graciela Giacinti de Mendoza. When I met her at the door
in my new clothes, she was impressed, but she tried not to show it. That woman
is unbelievable. There she is in a leather and mesh striped mini dress—at her
age!—and she got right in MY face and called me a whore. (Yes, I have been
doing a lot of shopping and reading on fashion!) All right, I admit that I started
the conversation. I reminded her that she was a whore with Don Benjamin Almonte
before I was born.
That used-up old woman underestimates me. When she insulted me and
called me a maid, when she called Alejandro my Patron, when she told me that in
her world maids did not marry their masters, I warned her. When she told me
that Montserrat was coming back I knew that I had been pushed to the edge of rage and despair by Graciela Mendoza and her leeching
children. I warned her.
Then she finger-punched me in the forehead and told me
that when Montserrat got back the first thing Graciela would do is GET RID OF
ME. How dare she? But I warned her that Montserrat would not be back if I got
to her first.
I told her then that I would rather mourn at
Alejandro’s tomb than see Montserrat back with him. Then she said that I would
be doing her a favor, in such a case. With Alejandro dead, Montserrat would
inherit everything.
The old hag wanted to see Alejandro. I tried to
protect him from her but Alejandro is so generous that he saw her in his office.
He showed her the mutual consent divorce papers that were delivered yesterday
by Montserrat’s lawyer. Alejandro had not signed them, of course. He knows
Montserrat is up to some trick. That woman Graciela said that Montserrat had
done this filing behind her back. She took the divorce papers and tore them up
before Alejandro’s eyes. Then she threatened him; if Alejandro ever were to
divorce Montserrat it would be under very different conditions than those
outlined in the contract she had just torn up. A divorce would, at the very
least, cost him half of everything he had.
Alejandro’s face never moved a muscle. Then
Graciela Giacinti advised him to go to Aguazul over the next few days to attend
the birth of his child. He could then see just whether the child was his.
The Graciela woman caught me listening at the door
and had the nerve to tell me to go pack Ale’s suitcase—he needed to go be with
his wife as she gave birth. I ran to Ale and asked him to promise me that he
was not going to go into town to look for Montserrat. In one of his black moods, Ale hurt me deeply
when he said, “Pardon me Maria, but I do no have to promise you anything.” I
felt like he had slapped me in the face. But it was Montserrat’s fault and I
will never forgive her for the insult.
Means – The Knife
The
difference between humans and wild animals is that humans pray before they
commit murder.
Friedrich Dürrenmatt (1921-1990)
That Montserrat, now, what kind of training has she
had to be the head of a Hacienda? She never even visited her father’s ranch as
a kid, and I heard that she sold the Mendoza Hacienda as soon as she buried her
father. I spent years doing my father’s books, learning the workings and, yes,
the economics of a working hacienda. The work is hard. It takes guts and
determination to run such a huge enterprise. You have to do what it takes.
Could Montserrat give ease to an animal that was wounded beyond healing? Could she use a knife or a gun if necessary? No.
Of course not. But I can.
I remember the first week she was on the property.
That prissy-ass Campeche sissy wandered through the kitchen in her tapping
tacones and decided that she wanted ‘fresh pork’ on the menu. Idiot. So, an animal
had to be killed out of rotation, a few weeks early, to please the whim if Her
Highness. She seemed surprised when we told her that. Where does she think
‘fresh’ meat comes from? Fairies?
That liar Montserrat tried to take my very
heart—Alejandro and Hacienda Almonte. He and I never had much growing up, but
we always had each other. We had this place. Now, Montserrat, you mince by and
Ale follows you like a dog after a bitch in heat. You, Mendoza, are not going to take what is
mine by right. You’re not going to live while I die. You are not going to foist
your bastard off on Alejandro. I will see to that.
I walked into the kitchen where Dominga was chopping
vegetables. Dominga made some wise crack to me about Montserrat. I pretended to
be upset and knocked over and broke my glass of juice. I blamed her, of course.
She reacted as I predicted she would and came to clean up the broken glass as I
ordered her to. She droned on about Alejandro not abandoning ‘his’ child. Picked up the knife that I had come to the
kitchen to get and left her still talking to herself
Opportunity
– Nadia’s Concert - Piano Sonata No. 14
Ludvig van
Beethoven 1801
“Are
you suggesting that we reopen the Opera with a murder as an added attraction?”
Adaptation by John Jacoby. Based on the composition
"Phantom of the Opera" by Gaston Leroux.
I went to Aguazul and tracked down Montserrat. I
planned carefully and I had an escape route set up. It should have worked out
perfectly.
Montserrat, her friend Nadia Medina and the
Arechiga girl, Angelica, were going to some charity concert at the Cultural
Center. I heard Montserrat say it was a benefit for single mothers and that
some day she might need help as a single mother. As if. That woman will lie
about anything, even to her friends.
Inside the Cultural Center, Pedro Medina gave his
wife a glowing introduction before she played some piano piece. What a blowhard
politician! Montserrat was in the audience and everything was going perfectly. I heard Nadia whisper to Pedro that while she played
her music she would be thinking of Victor. Pedro grinned at her through his
teeth and said, yes, he knew. Hmmm.
It really could not have worked out better.
Montserrat apparently felt some contractions and left the concert by herself. I
stood just feet from her, the sharp chopping knife in my hand. I whispered that
she should not bear Alejandro’s child. I felt calm as I approached her around
the corner when she screamed. I had not even touched the blonde cow. She was in
labor and , ironically for me, Victor came to her rescue . They made their way
outside together. For the moment, she was safe.
The only mistake I made was to get too emotional
when I failed to kill Montserrat. That good-for-nothing Adolfo came running
into the theatre as I was getting ready to leave. The feelings clouded my
judgment and made me stupid. I was still crying in frustration when he found me
on the stairs. He took the knife away. I mumbled that Alejandro’s baby could
not be born and I asked Adolfo to help me. He got rid of the knife. I won’t
make the mistake of getting emotional next time. I revealed more to Adolfo that
I like. But, one thing I can always count on, leopards do not change their
spots. Adolfo has always been an idiot and always will be one. I know how to
handle Adolfo.
They say it takes motive, means and opportunity to
commit a murder. I have a burning motive. Montserrat and her family have tried
to take EVERYTHING from me. I hate them. That will not change and they will pay
for how they have hurt me and insulted Alejandro.
I have proven to myself that I am a good planner. If
that coward Montserrat had not started labor and screamed I was in the right
place, ready to execute. I was nervous but not afraid. As to opportunity, there
are many means to end a life. I will wait, and plan again, and strike again,
when the time is ripe. I suppose next time there will be two persons to kill.
Right now I have to make my way home. I will
probably read myself to sleep tonight. The heavy book on Mexican oil pipelines
awaits my attention.
Maria
What Maria Does Not Know
· Angelica Alvarez takes her sister for a walk at the
seaside esplanade to show Virginia some of the town’s eligible men. Look here.
Look there. She seems to be saying, “There are more fish in the sea!” Angelica
tells her sister that she has to get over Dimitrio. It has been a long time and
she needs to find someone who will make her happy—like Angelica and Jose Luis.
She is happy for her sister but Virginia wouldn’t bite. She says she has to go
study for her University entrance exams. Virgina leaves Angelica to go to an
illicit meet-up at the Library with Dimitrio.
· Esmeralda and Rufugio - At the Naval Base: The Navy is
planning certain operations that are to be directed by Jose Luis Alvarez. He asks Refugio to gather the men together so
that he may give them very precise instructions. But there is a noisy fuss and
they go in the room to find Esmeralda having her revenge. She has brought her
won music and is doing a mild strip tease in front of the gathered men. She
bumps up against them She grinds crotch to crotch with the men as she works her
way around the room. As Refugio comes in and tells him that she has embarrassed
him she begins screaming, “So, I embarrass you? I can dance anywhere I want.”
Refugio bodily picks her up and carries her out of the room while she screams
at Refugio, “No me toces!” Jose Luis
gruffly orders the men back to their duties and turns off the music.
· Refugio takes Esme home and chews her out. He said she
could dance anywhere she wanted but at his JOB? That could get he or Jose Luis
in trouble! He doesn’t understand.
· Esme unloads on him. She now knows he caused
her to lose her dancing job by going to
the chief of police. This is the worst thing that has ever been done to her.
(HUH?) She is used to people doing her wrong but she did not expect from
Refugio. He ruined what they had. She just knew he was going to ruin their
relationship and he did, because he never accepted her for what she is. She
accepted him when he was a fugitive, after he had killed a man, while he was on
the run. She did that because she loved him. He protests that he loves her too,
but she throws him out of her house and demands that he leave her in peace.
· Doña Graciela encounters Father Anselmo outside the
Hacienda. He has come to visit Alejandro. Father Anselmo says that he would
like be the priest to baptize Baby Menzoda/Almonte when s/he is born. Graciela
says, “Not a chance. I do not want you near my family.” Father Anselmo looks
pained and asks her if she is afraid he will reveal some of her dark secrets.
He replies that he has kept the secrets for a long time, and he will continue
to keep them, for the sake of her children. There are certain things that her
children must NEVER know. Graciela agrees and leaves the hacienda.
A Chance Encounter in Aguazul
· Montserrat and Tia Carlota run into Angelic at the
Esplanade. Montse says she did not know that Angelica was here in Aguazul.
Angelica says that she and her husband have rented a house here in town.
Montserrat congratulates Angelica on her marriage and Angelica congratulates Montserrat
on her pregnancy, Angelica feels the baby and the women laugh. Despite the
potential awkwardness between them, these women like one another.
· Angie has lunch with Montse and Tia Carlota. She tells
Montse that Jose Luis is the nicest, kindest man in the world. Everybody
thought the worst when she ran away with him, but SHE made Jose Luis take him
with her. It was a lot of work getting him to be with her, she tells the women
frankly. Montse wishes both she and Jose Luis the bes and tells Angelica that
she knew that Angie fell in love with JL at first sight, she sincerely hopes he
has learned to love Angelica. “Si, me
quiero muchisimo,” Angie replies.
· Tia Carlota asks how Angie’s family is dealing with
the marriage. In her refreshingly frank way Angie says her Mom is living in
town but that her Dad has not forgiven her for marrying a man like Jose
Luis. Tia Carlota says that she imagines
that Don Joaquin was not happy to find that Jose Luis Alvarez and Antonio
Olivares were the same man. Angie agrees.
· Montserrat lies to Angie that Ale is being kept at the
Hacienda on business. Angie says her dad is away on some business in Monterrey,
her sister says. Angelica’s parents have split up. Tia Carlota and Montse
express their condolences. Angie notes that Montse is very near her delivery
date and also that she does not have any friends in Aguazul—she wants to see
Montse again. Montse says that she has an event to attend this very night and
Angelica is invited!
· Montserrat is worried that Joaquin Arechiga will tell
Alejandro that Jose Luis is living in Aguazul. She does not know WHAT is going
to happen. Tia Carlota goes off on Jose Luis, living the good life with a rich
woman after he tried to steal Montse away from her husband who TRULY loves her.
(Ed. Really, Carlota? Can you hear yourself talking? Sometimes you are an
imbecile, woman.) Montse tells Tia to stop trashing JL. She could have stopped
him from marrying Angelica, but she didn’t. When JL was trying to see if he
still had a chance with Montse, she told him that she and Ale were completely
reconciled. Ale had forgiven her all and they were happier than ever.
Furthermore JL is not an opportunistic predator. Angelica’s doctor’s have given
her only a short time to live and JL married her to give her some happiness in
the short time she has left. Tia Carlota has the grace to look slightly guilty
as Montse waddles her way upstairs.
· Amelia visits Angie. She asks where Virginia is, and
Angelica says that Virginia went to the Library to study. Amelia is very
worried about Virginia. She is upset about her Mom and Dad’s breakup and she
has not accepted that Angie is going to die. Mother and daughter share a hug.
Meanwhile, Virginia meets up with Dimitrio in the stacks. They kiss and she
gives him a check from her new checking account. Her Dad feels guilty about the
separation so he deposited a large sum in the account and Virginia’s mom isn’t
paying much attention to her because she is taking care of Angelica. She called
Dimitrio when she got to Aguazul because he makes her forget everything. The
make out.
· Adolfito visits Josefina at home. She says Dimmy has
been out all day, and no, she is not good. She was sure she could make Dimmy
fall in love with her but she was wrong. Aldolfo puts his arm around Josefina
to comfort her.
· Adolfo lies to Josefina that he persuaded Dimmy to
marry her instead of escaping to Brasil on her wedding day. He apologizes for
all the mean things that he and Dimmy did to her. He knows how it feels because
he fell totally in love with a woman and she just played with his feelings. He
cannot get over the woman. He tells Josefina that he wishes he could go back
and undo all of the lies that he and Dimmy told her. If he had the luck of
being married to a woman like her he would do all in his power to make her
happy. She should work with Adofito to make Dimitrio jealous. Then he might
fall in love with Josefina.
· Jose Luis gets home from work and Angelica tells him
that she ran into Montserrat. Montse is in Aguazul without Ale and she is
pregnant. JL looks at his yellow gold wedding ring. Angelica checks in to see
if JL is OK with her going to an event tonight with Montserrat. Angelica
doesn’t hide anything from her husband. She tells him that she has the feeling
that Montserrat is not happy.
· EZ Basurto puts the moves on Esme but she isn’t ready
just yet. He loves her just the way she is.
· Ale sits alone in the dark, drinking. Macario comes in
and they both wonder aloud where Maria might be. Neither man has seen her all
afternoon. Macario says that Father Anselmo came over earlier to see if there
was any news about the birth of Montserrat’s baby. Ale tells Macario he does
not know and does not care about the birth of Monserrat’s child. He does not
know if he is still in love with her but her thinks about her all day long,
with rage, but she is all he thinks about. Macario says that the Father is
absolutely certain that the baby is his. Sra Montserrat did not cheat on
Alejandro and he will go to hell for abandoning his own child—just like Don
Benjamin abandoned him!
Labels: robo
Comments:
<< Home
Patio Folks:
I thought you might enjoy hearing the story told from another perspective. Maria, although a sure psychopath, has her reasons...
Thank heavens Maria was thwarted in her efforts to kill Montse and baby by the combined (chance) efforts of Victor and Adolfo.
My DVR cuts off the avances. Lo siento.
Elna June
I thought you might enjoy hearing the story told from another perspective. Maria, although a sure psychopath, has her reasons...
Thank heavens Maria was thwarted in her efforts to kill Montse and baby by the combined (chance) efforts of Victor and Adolfo.
My DVR cuts off the avances. Lo siento.
Elna June
EJ:
This whole recap is genius, pure genius! I loved every single word! You are so enormously talented. Are you sure you don't write pot boilers on the side? You most certainly should!
I loved the Maria perspective. It's like hearing her tell her side of the story, justifying herself and her reasons. She will never realize she is insane, she thinks she is right.
I like the fact that Angie and Monse are friends. That is so nice, no rancor and no hidden agenda. I also like the fact that Angie tells JL everything. That's refreshing.
Of course Gracie would tear up that divorce paperwork, but I noticed Ale never got his rage on with Gracie. I wonder if he is a bit afraid of her?
Dimwit will never change. Some days I like what he has done, and some days I want to hit him upside his head.
I am so liking Mac. He tells it like it is and never fails to tell Ale exactly what he is thinking. Same as the Padre. He also tells it like it is. I know Padre is a screamer, but still, he knows where it's at.
Poor Nadia, had to play that same music again. And there was Vic in the audience. Pedro needs a cast iron skillet.
I am glad Vic came just in time to save Monse from that deranged BM and that Adolfo took that knife from her. I too fear she will be back to do more damage.
As far as the avances go, the doctor is telling Monse to push and she says she can't and it looks like she faints. Also that putz of a Joaquin finally finds Ale in his office.
Thanks again for this most genius recap, one of your best and most marvelous!
This whole recap is genius, pure genius! I loved every single word! You are so enormously talented. Are you sure you don't write pot boilers on the side? You most certainly should!
I loved the Maria perspective. It's like hearing her tell her side of the story, justifying herself and her reasons. She will never realize she is insane, she thinks she is right.
I like the fact that Angie and Monse are friends. That is so nice, no rancor and no hidden agenda. I also like the fact that Angie tells JL everything. That's refreshing.
Of course Gracie would tear up that divorce paperwork, but I noticed Ale never got his rage on with Gracie. I wonder if he is a bit afraid of her?
Dimwit will never change. Some days I like what he has done, and some days I want to hit him upside his head.
I am so liking Mac. He tells it like it is and never fails to tell Ale exactly what he is thinking. Same as the Padre. He also tells it like it is. I know Padre is a screamer, but still, he knows where it's at.
Poor Nadia, had to play that same music again. And there was Vic in the audience. Pedro needs a cast iron skillet.
I am glad Vic came just in time to save Monse from that deranged BM and that Adolfo took that knife from her. I too fear she will be back to do more damage.
As far as the avances go, the doctor is telling Monse to push and she says she can't and it looks like she faints. Also that putz of a Joaquin finally finds Ale in his office.
Thanks again for this most genius recap, one of your best and most marvelous!
Mads: You are a doll. No, I do not write potboilers. I would like to get it together to start my blog on learning about wine and I have a couple of non-fiction books that I would love to write plus the poetry I always threaten to try to publish. Your feedback is so meaningful and appreciated. It builds my confidence that I might actually be able to write a real book, with paper and everything.
Thanks so much, amiga, for coming by so early/late. You made my evening.
Abrazos,
Elna June
Thanks so much, amiga, for coming by so early/late. You made my evening.
Abrazos,
Elna June
Wow! I agree with Mads about those potboilers. This was brilliant. Are you a fan of Poe? Because Maria's story reminded me very much of the narrative in The Tell Tale Heart.
I love how you get into the heads of some of our least favorite characters and give them a voice and a chance to explain themselves. You put your compassion to good use, and we benefit from it.
Thank you EJ. I've had a wretched day but reading your recap really put things right. It is an extra dark Dark And Stormy if you will. Oh hey, and I'm looking at one right now!!
I love how you get into the heads of some of our least favorite characters and give them a voice and a chance to explain themselves. You put your compassion to good use, and we benefit from it.
Thank you EJ. I've had a wretched day but reading your recap really put things right. It is an extra dark Dark And Stormy if you will. Oh hey, and I'm looking at one right now!!
Good morning, all. EJ, thank you, for a great read . Malria is on the warpath. Yikes
We got a replay of the disGRACEful/Malria meet and greet. I got a kick out of Malria trying to listen outside Ale's office door. she is such a pathetic lurker.
Ale seems to be on autopilot.. despierto, Ale. Get your head out of...the sand.
Dim is despicable. Josefina is such a sweet woman, and she deserves a good man..not a spoiled, lazy little boy.
Sylvia...I hope that you have a better day today. I will send some good vibrations westward ))))))))))
Well, I have an early day today.
We got a replay of the disGRACEful/Malria meet and greet. I got a kick out of Malria trying to listen outside Ale's office door. she is such a pathetic lurker.
Ale seems to be on autopilot.. despierto, Ale. Get your head out of...the sand.
Dim is despicable. Josefina is such a sweet woman, and she deserves a good man..not a spoiled, lazy little boy.
Sylvia...I hope that you have a better day today. I will send some good vibrations westward ))))))))))
Well, I have an early day today.
Permalink posted by 
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:48:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:48:00 AM EST
Wow Elna June. You had me spellbound this morning. How wonderful to have that kind of imagination, and the grace to enter the mind of a character most of us loathe,and present reality from her point of view. I almost found myself sympathizing with her! (the problems of too much empathy and weak boundaries).
Of course the usual Elna June humor crept in during the retelling-the-episode-part.
"Tia Carlota has the grace to look slightly guilty as Montse waddles her way upstairs."
That just cracked me up.
There's no reason for Montserrat to be waddling by the way. In real life, someone who had gained so little weight during pregnancy would not have that kind of trouble getting in and out of chairs or going upstairs. But why quibble? The actress looks lovely in her fake pregnancy.
Haven't seen this yet, but lady, I'm in awe of your skills at creating an enthralling alternate universe of the mind! Wow wow wow.
And I'm sure Carlos will be happy to know that a wise and gracious friend could penetrate the mind of his protegée and give her side of the story. (Is the Maria table getting crowded?)
Of course the usual Elna June humor crept in during the retelling-the-episode-part.
"Tia Carlota has the grace to look slightly guilty as Montse waddles her way upstairs."
That just cracked me up.
There's no reason for Montserrat to be waddling by the way. In real life, someone who had gained so little weight during pregnancy would not have that kind of trouble getting in and out of chairs or going upstairs. But why quibble? The actress looks lovely in her fake pregnancy.
Haven't seen this yet, but lady, I'm in awe of your skills at creating an enthralling alternate universe of the mind! Wow wow wow.
And I'm sure Carlos will be happy to know that a wise and gracious friend could penetrate the mind of his protegée and give her side of the story. (Is the Maria table getting crowded?)
And oh my, I didn't know our sunny Sylvia could have bad days. This should not be! Joining Susanlynn in sending good vibes, warm thoughts and reminding you that feelings are transient...both good and bad. Which I guess is the good and bad news!
Excellent work, Elna June. This is exactly what Maria has to be thinking.
We need a film noir revival.
Graceless: I do love how she caught Maria eavesdropping outside the study door. Maria is clearly no match for her.
Virginia: She needs someone nice, not Dimwit.
Adolfo: He really needs to tell someone about Maria trying to kill Monserrat. He may be a con artist but I don't see him having the stomach for murder.
Esmeralda: She should try to become a dance teacher, but nowhere near Aguazul.
Josefina: When is she getting her makeover?
Rosario: Where are you?
Maria: Since she didn't succeed in killing Monserrat or even attacking her will she try to kill or kidnap the baby?
Actually, of the latter I have no doubt. Maria does not fit the legal definition of insane; she knows what she is doing. She is a sociopath. Is she mentally ill? Possibly. She is disconnected from reality in that she doesn't see that once a man decides he loves you like a brother there is no sexual or romantic path to him, even if there is no competition on the scene.
That the issue of what Padre Anselmo knows about Graceless came up, we know now that there will be a revelation. Somebody will soon overhear something and if that somebody isn't Monserrat or Dimwit it doesn't matter; the info will get back to one or the other within a few episodes.
We need a film noir revival.
Graceless: I do love how she caught Maria eavesdropping outside the study door. Maria is clearly no match for her.
Virginia: She needs someone nice, not Dimwit.
Adolfo: He really needs to tell someone about Maria trying to kill Monserrat. He may be a con artist but I don't see him having the stomach for murder.
Esmeralda: She should try to become a dance teacher, but nowhere near Aguazul.
Josefina: When is she getting her makeover?
Rosario: Where are you?
Maria: Since she didn't succeed in killing Monserrat or even attacking her will she try to kill or kidnap the baby?
Actually, of the latter I have no doubt. Maria does not fit the legal definition of insane; she knows what she is doing. She is a sociopath. Is she mentally ill? Possibly. She is disconnected from reality in that she doesn't see that once a man decides he loves you like a brother there is no sexual or romantic path to him, even if there is no competition on the scene.
That the issue of what Padre Anselmo knows about Graceless came up, we know now that there will be a revelation. Somebody will soon overhear something and if that somebody isn't Monserrat or Dimwit it doesn't matter; the info will get back to one or the other within a few episodes.
I am absolutely in awe EJ. This recap went above and beyond and beyond and beyond. What a wonderful idea to get us into the head of our villainess. Still don't like her, but amazingly you captured what she most likely is thinking exactly.
Dear Angie. Like a walking angel. Honest, loving, sweet. I won't be surprised that if she gets worse and Monse is single, she will tell JL to go back to her.
Can we just park the Ale drinking and moping scenes? We get it. If this is the only way we get to see him on screen, as much as I love Rulli's pretty self, I can pass for awhile. Give me more Victor. Or the idea of Adolfo and Fina trying to pull a fast one on Dim is rather intriguing. Anything but "I'm all rage..our a drink...I hate Monse...pour a drink...but I love her...pour a drink". Yawn
Graceless is beyond the pale tearing up the divorce papers. At least Ale should now know Monse didn't do this as a trick with Mumsy manipulating and meant it when she wasn't asking for anything...but he's too busy sulking and drinking to register those facts in his brain cells.
Daisynjay
Dear Angie. Like a walking angel. Honest, loving, sweet. I won't be surprised that if she gets worse and Monse is single, she will tell JL to go back to her.
Can we just park the Ale drinking and moping scenes? We get it. If this is the only way we get to see him on screen, as much as I love Rulli's pretty self, I can pass for awhile. Give me more Victor. Or the idea of Adolfo and Fina trying to pull a fast one on Dim is rather intriguing. Anything but "I'm all rage..our a drink...I hate Monse...pour a drink...but I love her...pour a drink". Yawn
Graceless is beyond the pale tearing up the divorce papers. At least Ale should now know Monse didn't do this as a trick with Mumsy manipulating and meant it when she wasn't asking for anything...but he's too busy sulking and drinking to register those facts in his brain cells.
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 7:39:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 7:39:00 AM EST
Elna June: What an incredibly creative and insightful posting from our unbeloved Maria. I was fascinated and read with rapt attention. Sensational from start to finish.
Marvelous George Eliot quote and perfectly fitting.
So many wonderful lines but "vaca rubia Montserrat", "What, should I just watch while I see a rattlesnake make a den in the home of my mate?" and "lying dung beetle of a mother" shone particularly bright for me.
I don't know if I was more surprised that Pedro actually seemed to radiate a scintilla of personality onstage or that Dimwit was illicitly romancing Virgina. Ahh Virgina, are you not thinking at all, young woman? If we were privvy to this sad situation, it went completely over my head (I say with some embarrassment).
Savored the replay of Gracie verbally devastating Maria, but my joy was short lived in view of what transpired next. I could not believe she was going to murder Monse in cold blood! I agree UA, Maria knows exactly what she is doing.
To his credit, Adolfo did seem very shaken up but I fear Maria will once again wrap him around her finger and promise "never to do it again", thus securing his silence. Sigh.
Susanlynn, I don't think Ale has ever had a conversation Monse has not been privvy to (largely by lurking as you noted). How frustrating.
Judy, you are a far kinder and more generous soul than I. While I enjoyed reading "Maria's" perspective, I did not find myself feeling any sympathy for her. However, I am smiling away as I am sure Carlos will not share my opinion and am looking forward to what he has to say.
Madelaine, I also like the friendship between Angie and Monse because as you stated so well there is "no rancor and no hidden agenda". And yes, Angie's candidness is refreshing.
And while all of the above events are transpiring, Ale continues to languish in his pity and bitterness. "Ale tells Macario he does not know and does not care about the birth of Monserrat’s child. He does not know if he is still in love with her but her thinks about her all day long, with rage, but she is all he thinks about". He does not care about his child and the only feelings inhabitating that selfish brain of his are of hatred. How very sad.
Did the previews show JL wondering if the child could possibly be his or did I get that entirely wrong? If so, I'm confused more than ever about the timeline here.
Sylvia, sending hugs to you and wishing you the sunshine that you constanly shine on all of us.
Elna June, I sincerely praise you for this masterful recap. Thank you for making Friday even better!
Diana
Marvelous George Eliot quote and perfectly fitting.
So many wonderful lines but "vaca rubia Montserrat", "What, should I just watch while I see a rattlesnake make a den in the home of my mate?" and "lying dung beetle of a mother" shone particularly bright for me.
I don't know if I was more surprised that Pedro actually seemed to radiate a scintilla of personality onstage or that Dimwit was illicitly romancing Virgina. Ahh Virgina, are you not thinking at all, young woman? If we were privvy to this sad situation, it went completely over my head (I say with some embarrassment).
Savored the replay of Gracie verbally devastating Maria, but my joy was short lived in view of what transpired next. I could not believe she was going to murder Monse in cold blood! I agree UA, Maria knows exactly what she is doing.
To his credit, Adolfo did seem very shaken up but I fear Maria will once again wrap him around her finger and promise "never to do it again", thus securing his silence. Sigh.
Susanlynn, I don't think Ale has ever had a conversation Monse has not been privvy to (largely by lurking as you noted). How frustrating.
Judy, you are a far kinder and more generous soul than I. While I enjoyed reading "Maria's" perspective, I did not find myself feeling any sympathy for her. However, I am smiling away as I am sure Carlos will not share my opinion and am looking forward to what he has to say.
Madelaine, I also like the friendship between Angie and Monse because as you stated so well there is "no rancor and no hidden agenda". And yes, Angie's candidness is refreshing.
And while all of the above events are transpiring, Ale continues to languish in his pity and bitterness. "Ale tells Macario he does not know and does not care about the birth of Monserrat’s child. He does not know if he is still in love with her but her thinks about her all day long, with rage, but she is all he thinks about". He does not care about his child and the only feelings inhabitating that selfish brain of his are of hatred. How very sad.
Did the previews show JL wondering if the child could possibly be his or did I get that entirely wrong? If so, I'm confused more than ever about the timeline here.
Sylvia, sending hugs to you and wishing you the sunshine that you constanly shine on all of us.
Elna June, I sincerely praise you for this masterful recap. Thank you for making Friday even better!
Diana
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 7:57:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 7:57:00 AM EST
Thank you EJ, copious praise to follow, didn't finish reading recap, gotta get to work. I am just struck by the whole Esme ho dancing at Refugio's job.
So the writers want to prove this statement true: Women should obey their men and be what the man wants/needs them to be.
They do it with an reductio ad absurdum argument/scene. Esme gyrating and dry humping Refugio's comrades at work! I am not sorry, this is indefensible and an absolutely stupid way for Esme to try to assert her agency. Yesterday I told Fugio to walk away from Esme. Now I say RUN! RUN! Esme deserves EZ sliming all over her. He definitely has a vibe of "yah baby, you can dance and I don't mind at all. . .in fact, I like to watch!"
I'm sorry, why does Refugio want to go around a woman who gets a below the waist salute from every man in town, drunkards, knuckle draggers, his comrades and all?
Back later to finish recap. Great job giving Maria's viewpoint. Some people will be really happy! ;D
Lila
So the writers want to prove this statement true: Women should obey their men and be what the man wants/needs them to be.
They do it with an reductio ad absurdum argument/scene. Esme gyrating and dry humping Refugio's comrades at work! I am not sorry, this is indefensible and an absolutely stupid way for Esme to try to assert her agency. Yesterday I told Fugio to walk away from Esme. Now I say RUN! RUN! Esme deserves EZ sliming all over her. He definitely has a vibe of "yah baby, you can dance and I don't mind at all. . .in fact, I like to watch!"
I'm sorry, why does Refugio want to go around a woman who gets a below the waist salute from every man in town, drunkards, knuckle draggers, his comrades and all?
Back later to finish recap. Great job giving Maria's viewpoint. Some people will be really happy! ;D
Lila
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:08:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:08:00 AM EST
Daisy, our comments crossed.
I enjoyed what you wrote, particularly "as much as I love Rulli's pretty self, I can pass for awhile". Amen sister!
Diana
I enjoyed what you wrote, particularly "as much as I love Rulli's pretty self, I can pass for awhile". Amen sister!
Diana
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:26:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:26:00 AM EST
Elna June, thanks for the view inside BM's twisted brain. The recap was great. I also enjoyed your excellent selection of quotations.
Adolfo talking Fina into a hare brained plot to make Dimitrio jealous? She bought it? Really? Sorry, but Fina is really wearing thin these days.
Refugio needs to quit trying to force his lifestyle on Esme. His loose lips cost her a job SHE wanted. I am glad she found out it was his fault. He needs to take his "morality" and "know better" attitude and disappear.
She was doing so much better before she met him or Nadia. And these two think they are her "friends". Yikes!
Dimitrio using Virginia: so sad. For me, his character can never be rehabilitated. He is in the same category as BM and Graciela. The only thing awaiting them should be personalized anvils.
I wonder how intense Ale's sorrow and shame will be when he learns that he was wrong and how much he made Montse suffer. Should be good.
Jarifa
Adolfo talking Fina into a hare brained plot to make Dimitrio jealous? She bought it? Really? Sorry, but Fina is really wearing thin these days.
Refugio needs to quit trying to force his lifestyle on Esme. His loose lips cost her a job SHE wanted. I am glad she found out it was his fault. He needs to take his "morality" and "know better" attitude and disappear.
She was doing so much better before she met him or Nadia. And these two think they are her "friends". Yikes!
Dimitrio using Virginia: so sad. For me, his character can never be rehabilitated. He is in the same category as BM and Graciela. The only thing awaiting them should be personalized anvils.
I wonder how intense Ale's sorrow and shame will be when he learns that he was wrong and how much he made Montse suffer. Should be good.
Jarifa
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:31:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:31:00 AM EST
Dear Elna June,
Thanks so much for this amazing recap! I now have a class on Thursday nights and get home in the middle of our TN, so it was pleasure to have this to read to be able to catch up this morning.
I loved all the recap from the POV of María. What a wonderful and inspired idea! There were endless funny lines--but also really insightful ones, too, and made me consider her humanity. As many viewers here have pointed out, Ale really does treat her badly, and she is totally devoted to him. But your recap made me feel for her in a new way. What a a great character study you have created!
I enjoyed all the helpful summary, too, since I missed some of those opening scenes.
You always give us such wonderfully creative and original recaps. Thanks so much, Elna June!
Thanks so much for this amazing recap! I now have a class on Thursday nights and get home in the middle of our TN, so it was pleasure to have this to read to be able to catch up this morning.
I loved all the recap from the POV of María. What a wonderful and inspired idea! There were endless funny lines--but also really insightful ones, too, and made me consider her humanity. As many viewers here have pointed out, Ale really does treat her badly, and she is totally devoted to him. But your recap made me feel for her in a new way. What a a great character study you have created!
I enjoyed all the helpful summary, too, since I missed some of those opening scenes.
You always give us such wonderfully creative and original recaps. Thanks so much, Elna June!
EJ: What a great recap. You made Maria into the proverbial fly on the wall reporting what she sees. Pure genius.
I loved the description of Graciela as a dung beetle. She sure was hot in that dress. Mama Mia!
Diana: No mention in the advances of Ale wondering anything about the baby. He still appears consumed by irrational hatred.
The worst moments: Simi in the library with Angie's sister taking money from her. That goes way over the line. He is scoundrel number one.
And, Adolfo making moves on Final. Poor girl. She is so vulnerable.
I loved the description of Graciela as a dung beetle. She sure was hot in that dress. Mama Mia!
Diana: No mention in the advances of Ale wondering anything about the baby. He still appears consumed by irrational hatred.
The worst moments: Simi in the library with Angie's sister taking money from her. That goes way over the line. He is scoundrel number one.
And, Adolfo making moves on Final. Poor girl. She is so vulnerable.
Diana...LOL. You know what they say about great minds...
Frankly if the patio table took a drink every time Ale sulked, stewed or spewed the same old venom, we would be under the table by now. I'd like to stay sober and watch the rest of the denizens.
Frankly, and pardon me for this, but I feel more affection for Adolfo fessing up to Fina right now than I do for Ale. Might be a thought to start an Adolfo table while Ale continues to self-implode with the Duchess of the House.
Daisynjay
Frankly if the patio table took a drink every time Ale sulked, stewed or spewed the same old venom, we would be under the table by now. I'd like to stay sober and watch the rest of the denizens.
Frankly, and pardon me for this, but I feel more affection for Adolfo fessing up to Fina right now than I do for Ale. Might be a thought to start an Adolfo table while Ale continues to self-implode with the Duchess of the House.
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:45:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:45:00 AM EST
Pasofino: I was wondering if JL had been contemplating if the baby might be his?
That was what totally confused me (among other things LOL).
Diana
That was what totally confused me (among other things LOL).
Diana
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:25:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:25:00 AM EST
Diana: I don't think that JL would believe the baby is his, but, he could have been thinking that under other circumstances it would have been his baby.
EJ! Remarkable job on getting inside Maria and looking through her eyes. You absolutely nailed her. I still don't like her. The whole knife at the town hall concert thing seemed really cartoonish. I can see her kidnapping the baby. She'll probably dress up like a nurse or cleaning lady and nobody will notice. . .
Y'all are right about Dim. He is irredeemable as is Adolfo who was spewing that line to Fina only to fleece her: He has no problem seducing his best "friend's" wife for money. Virginia is lost, neglected and confused, getting scalped by Dim. I don't think that was implied in what we've seen but not surprised.
Don't care about Nadia. Pitiful concert.
Angie is like a ray of sunlight and a breath of fresh air. They'll probably kill her off soon. I want JL to rescue Montse and ride into the sunset. Ale can stay in the hell he and Maria have crafted together.
EJ, what a wondrous story teller you are! Thank you so very much.
Lila
Y'all are right about Dim. He is irredeemable as is Adolfo who was spewing that line to Fina only to fleece her: He has no problem seducing his best "friend's" wife for money. Virginia is lost, neglected and confused, getting scalped by Dim. I don't think that was implied in what we've seen but not surprised.
Don't care about Nadia. Pitiful concert.
Angie is like a ray of sunlight and a breath of fresh air. They'll probably kill her off soon. I want JL to rescue Montse and ride into the sunset. Ale can stay in the hell he and Maria have crafted together.
EJ, what a wondrous story teller you are! Thank you so very much.
Lila
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:31:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:31:00 AM EST
Elna June, you have very eloquently captured Maria in all of her sickness and evil. I was gob smacked! You DO need to start your blog and start your writing.
Dimwit and Redemption are two words that should no longer be used in the same sentence. It should not happen.
It pains me to see Fina now. She doesn't need a physical makeover, she needs a mental makeover. Sadly, who there in that little town is even capable of helping her?! This is when the writers really fry me. Without knowing anything about Fina's parents and Fina's upbringing, we know nothing about why Fina is the way she is. She is heading down the road of becoming a caricature of herself. If the writers do this to her, that would be so unfair.
Her obsession with Dimwit is literally making me sick to my stomach.
Angelica is the only bright and shining light that is not trapped by the "event horizon" that surrounds the Black Hole known as Aqua Azul.
I hope for a miracle for Angelica and I hope her goodness can transform the wretches that surround her.
Fatima
Dimwit and Redemption are two words that should no longer be used in the same sentence. It should not happen.
It pains me to see Fina now. She doesn't need a physical makeover, she needs a mental makeover. Sadly, who there in that little town is even capable of helping her?! This is when the writers really fry me. Without knowing anything about Fina's parents and Fina's upbringing, we know nothing about why Fina is the way she is. She is heading down the road of becoming a caricature of herself. If the writers do this to her, that would be so unfair.
Her obsession with Dimwit is literally making me sick to my stomach.
Angelica is the only bright and shining light that is not trapped by the "event horizon" that surrounds the Black Hole known as Aqua Azul.
I hope for a miracle for Angelica and I hope her goodness can transform the wretches that surround her.
Fatima
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:55:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:55:00 AM EST
EJ- It really is amazing how much imagination and skill you put into each of your recaps. This is just another stellar example. Gracias!
I also enjoy Angie's honesty with everyone. She's not a saint. She does wish JL loved her the way that he loves Monse. But she doesn't let that get in the way of the relationship she has with him, or demand that JL amar her vs. querer her. And she doesn't let that affect the way she treats Monse or anyone else. She treats everyone with the same level of respect, frankness and kindness.
What the heck is Dim spending money on? He gets money from Tomas, we know he must be getting money from Gracie (thanks to stupid Carlota and Monse selling the hacienda), and now we know he's getting money from Virginia.
Daisynjay: "At least Ale should now know Monse didn't do this as a trick with Mumsy manipulating and meant it when she wasn't asking for anything." You have a lot more faith in Ale than I do. I am sure in his twisted mind he thinks Monse and Gracie cooked this whole thing up together.
I also enjoy Angie's honesty with everyone. She's not a saint. She does wish JL loved her the way that he loves Monse. But she doesn't let that get in the way of the relationship she has with him, or demand that JL amar her vs. querer her. And she doesn't let that affect the way she treats Monse or anyone else. She treats everyone with the same level of respect, frankness and kindness.
What the heck is Dim spending money on? He gets money from Tomas, we know he must be getting money from Gracie (thanks to stupid Carlota and Monse selling the hacienda), and now we know he's getting money from Virginia.
Daisynjay: "At least Ale should now know Monse didn't do this as a trick with Mumsy manipulating and meant it when she wasn't asking for anything." You have a lot more faith in Ale than I do. I am sure in his twisted mind he thinks Monse and Gracie cooked this whole thing up together.
Dear Elna June:
First let me apologize -- I was away for a bit. Thank you for Monday's comment (I am still giggling over it.)
And let me sneak in a belated thank you to Eli for yesterday's wit and snap.
Now to view from María's head. WOW! From the choice of this framing device, to the choice of quotations to the particulars that support the general ("Could Montserrat give ease to an animal that was wounded beyond healing?"), you have done an absolutely splendid job today.
I'm surprised to learn that María is so cerebral. I had the impression, when I interviewed her, that she was more the visceral type, more reactive than proactive. Clearly I was wrong and like so many of the characters in our story, I was underestimating her. She shares with the best generals (and the best criminals) the ability to strategize and the instinct to act in the presence of opportunity.
I wonder if Adolfo will tell anyone what he saw...
First let me apologize -- I was away for a bit. Thank you for Monday's comment (I am still giggling over it.)
And let me sneak in a belated thank you to Eli for yesterday's wit and snap.
Now to view from María's head. WOW! From the choice of this framing device, to the choice of quotations to the particulars that support the general ("Could Montserrat give ease to an animal that was wounded beyond healing?"), you have done an absolutely splendid job today.
I'm surprised to learn that María is so cerebral. I had the impression, when I interviewed her, that she was more the visceral type, more reactive than proactive. Clearly I was wrong and like so many of the characters in our story, I was underestimating her. She shares with the best generals (and the best criminals) the ability to strategize and the instinct to act in the presence of opportunity.
I wonder if Adolfo will tell anyone what he saw...
One preview snippet - upon hearing Montse is in labor, JL thinks to himself "I need to go see her!" What? Why?!? Other than the obvious TN setup of course!!!
Thanks EJ! I don't know if I liked being in María's twisted mind, though. She had the same problem as many TN villainesses (and even some of the heroines) - a man is just a vessel manipulated by another woman and has no choice of his own. Nor do his decsions or actions count at all. Everything is engineered by the other "evil" person.
TN characters are simply figments of a writer's imagination. And while they might be drawing on some real life experience, much of it comes from the clichés of TN tradition - very caricatured! So I never try to analyze too deeply - as these aren't real people. But I can see how it can be fun to attempt to explain their behavior.
Thanks EJ! I don't know if I liked being in María's twisted mind, though. She had the same problem as many TN villainesses (and even some of the heroines) - a man is just a vessel manipulated by another woman and has no choice of his own. Nor do his decsions or actions count at all. Everything is engineered by the other "evil" person.
TN characters are simply figments of a writer's imagination. And while they might be drawing on some real life experience, much of it comes from the clichés of TN tradition - very caricatured! So I never try to analyze too deeply - as these aren't real people. But I can see how it can be fun to attempt to explain their behavior.
Novelamaven, I too see Maria as more instinctive rather than cerebral. She certainly doesn't think more than one step ahead, and often shoots herself in the foot for the short term gain with her trouble-causing personality. Like she'd rather get Montse in trouble with Alejandro by ratting her out, rather than helping her leave the hacienda once and for all. Or she can't resist telling Ale about Joaquin's news even though it was very clearly explained that doing so would put Ale in danger. And up until recently she's been very lazy - more of a reptilian brain.
Adolfo looked extremely disgusted with her - I think any interest he has in her is now gone. Besides - he might actually fall in love with Fina! Poor Fina!
Adolfo looked extremely disgusted with her - I think any interest he has in her is now gone. Besides - he might actually fall in love with Fina! Poor Fina!
Dear NovelaMaven, I have to agree with Audrey. The Whore Maria operates on instinct and knee jerk decisions. That is not the mark of a good general and I could never, ever elevate her to the level of some of history's best. That is going just a tad too far for me!! :))
I wasn't quite buying into the story Maria told Elna June about really getting into all of these books and actually "thinking" about what those books had to offer. Nopis. No siree!
Fatima
I wasn't quite buying into the story Maria told Elna June about really getting into all of these books and actually "thinking" about what those books had to offer. Nopis. No siree!
Fatima
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 11:00:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 11:00:00 AM EST
Audrey, I think JL's reaction of "I need to go and see her" was set up over the last couple of episodes. What began as a noble gesture for a dying woman has taken an unexpected turn. It is hard to be noble for the long haul.
Remember when JL asked if she was bored with him and she said no, but she wished he weren't so quiet? He didn't respond. It was left to us to assume his silence is filled with memories of Montserrat.
There is something troubling each time Angie says "Te amo" and JL says nothing back.
Fatima, so you think Maria was pulling Elna June's leg? I suspect you're on to something, my friend. heeheehee.
Remember when JL asked if she was bored with him and she said no, but she wished he weren't so quiet? He didn't respond. It was left to us to assume his silence is filled with memories of Montserrat.
There is something troubling each time Angie says "Te amo" and JL says nothing back.
Fatima, so you think Maria was pulling Elna June's leg? I suspect you're on to something, my friend. heeheehee.
NovelaMaven- I'm not disturbed that JL doesn't say te amo back. He's honest. He says te quiero. Angie knew the deal when she married him, and she doesn't seem too bothered by it.
Audrey: Thank you for explaining the JL preview scene I was having difficulty understanding.
Also enjoyed "reptilian brain".
Diana
Also enjoyed "reptilian brain".
Diana
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 11:42:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 11:42:00 AM EST
Wow, Elna June, how very clever of you to recount events from María's somewhat contorted perspective. Who would have guessed that María is so well-read has such a wealth of knowledge. Certainly a contrast with Montserrat's dinky little brain.
Yesterday I commented:
"I'm still clinging to faint hope that María will start making better choices... however I think that guns, knives, and high heeled shoes are unwise choices."
which made me smile at this:
"Could she use a knife or a gun if necessary? No. Of course not."
Perhaps... but Montserrat has mastered high heeled shoes.
Even had Victor not shown up, I don't think that María could have carried out cold-blooded murder... and since no one was harmed, I still have hope for her redemption.
By the way, didn't she look great in that blouse?
Carlos
Yesterday I commented:
"I'm still clinging to faint hope that María will start making better choices... however I think that guns, knives, and high heeled shoes are unwise choices."
which made me smile at this:
"Could she use a knife or a gun if necessary? No. Of course not."
Perhaps... but Montserrat has mastered high heeled shoes.
Even had Victor not shown up, I don't think that María could have carried out cold-blooded murder... and since no one was harmed, I still have hope for her redemption.
By the way, didn't she look great in that blouse?
Carlos
Hello all:
Thanks to all for stopping by.
Sylvia:
My dear, I am so sorry you had such a crummy day yesterday. If I could lighten your load I surely would. I hope today goes much better for you. I am sending you my deep affection by way of a virtual hug.
Yes. I love Edgar Allen Poe. It has been many years since I read 'The Telltale Heart' but if I have been influenced by him it can only be a good thing. Perhaps I emulated his style unconsciously; it is said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
The inspiration for the piece was The Patio's very strong reaction to Maria over the last few weeks. People seemed to hate the antagonist but also to wonder WHAT she was thinking.
A series of articles were written a couple of years ago by a forensic psychologist working with prisoners at San Quentin State penitentiary who had been convicted of 1st degree murder. A common theme amongst these folks was victimization—they saw THEMSELVES as victims who were taking understandable and righteous measures to avenge themselves of the perceived wrongs done to them.
Since we will spend so long in the depths of our melodramatic story, and because we are often soothed by understanding, "Why?", I decided to try to offer a recap from Maria's point of view. It was an exercise in compassion to try to allow a decent rendering of the character's psychopathological behavior.
It helps to remember that were she a real person, she would not be considered insane. She knows what she is doing and plans her behavior with care.
Elna June
Thanks to all for stopping by.
Sylvia:
My dear, I am so sorry you had such a crummy day yesterday. If I could lighten your load I surely would. I hope today goes much better for you. I am sending you my deep affection by way of a virtual hug.
Yes. I love Edgar Allen Poe. It has been many years since I read 'The Telltale Heart' but if I have been influenced by him it can only be a good thing. Perhaps I emulated his style unconsciously; it is said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
The inspiration for the piece was The Patio's very strong reaction to Maria over the last few weeks. People seemed to hate the antagonist but also to wonder WHAT she was thinking.
A series of articles were written a couple of years ago by a forensic psychologist working with prisoners at San Quentin State penitentiary who had been convicted of 1st degree murder. A common theme amongst these folks was victimization—they saw THEMSELVES as victims who were taking understandable and righteous measures to avenge themselves of the perceived wrongs done to them.
Since we will spend so long in the depths of our melodramatic story, and because we are often soothed by understanding, "Why?", I decided to try to offer a recap from Maria's point of view. It was an exercise in compassion to try to allow a decent rendering of the character's psychopathological behavior.
It helps to remember that were she a real person, she would not be considered insane. She knows what she is doing and plans her behavior with care.
Elna June
Dear Elna June, " and because we are often soothed by understanding, "
Yes! Exactly! When I know what something "is", then I can better deal with what is.
Fatima
Yes! Exactly! When I know what something "is", then I can better deal with what is.
Fatima
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12:35:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12:35:00 PM EST
Good afternoon, all, on this sunny but very cold day. I am thinking about making another pot of soup since the chicken rice and the chicken noodle were both big hits with the three-year-old. Hmmm..what next?
Carlos...Last night , I was watching the 7:oo novela, I thought I saw an ad for some type of OTC med called Next !
I have to agree about Malria not being into books. Malria, the scholar...I think not. Does she even know how to read ? Have we ever seen her read anything ? I agree that Malria seems to act impulsively.....for example..I am going to smack her...ah! look there's a knife....yes, I want this garish frock....four inch heels are a good idea. Malria is kind of a stream-of-consciousness kind of gal. Pensive?..I think not. And, well, let me just say that when a guy as smarmy and useless as Aldolfo looks extremely disgusted with you...you have hit a new low.
One reason I think novelas are addictive is that after a long day of extreme reality, we can watch them and say to ourselves, "Well, at least, I am in a better situation than (fill in the blank..Mony, Malria, Esme, Nadia, Josefina, Tia Carlotta, Angie, disGraceful,etc) , Hey, if you had to switch places with one of these women whom would you choose ???
Carlos...Last night , I was watching the 7:oo novela, I thought I saw an ad for some type of OTC med called Next !
I have to agree about Malria not being into books. Malria, the scholar...I think not. Does she even know how to read ? Have we ever seen her read anything ? I agree that Malria seems to act impulsively.....for example..I am going to smack her...ah! look there's a knife....yes, I want this garish frock....four inch heels are a good idea. Malria is kind of a stream-of-consciousness kind of gal. Pensive?..I think not. And, well, let me just say that when a guy as smarmy and useless as Aldolfo looks extremely disgusted with you...you have hit a new low.
One reason I think novelas are addictive is that after a long day of extreme reality, we can watch them and say to ourselves, "Well, at least, I am in a better situation than (fill in the blank..Mony, Malria, Esme, Nadia, Josefina, Tia Carlotta, Angie, disGraceful,etc) , Hey, if you had to switch places with one of these women whom would you choose ???
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12:41:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12:41:00 PM EST
JudyB:
Your ability to 'almoat' sympathize with Maria does reveal your wonderful empathic heart. And IMHO, it is not 'bad boundaries' to feel sad that Maria is actually herself SUFFERING. This in no way endorses or excuses her depraved behavior. Maria is repellant and terrifying. As you know better than I, according to telenovela rules (and the rules of cause and effect) we know that she will be squashed like a bug at the very end of our series.
Thank you so much for your kind words about the recap. They mean a great deal to me.
EJ
Your ability to 'almoat' sympathize with Maria does reveal your wonderful empathic heart. And IMHO, it is not 'bad boundaries' to feel sad that Maria is actually herself SUFFERING. This in no way endorses or excuses her depraved behavior. Maria is repellant and terrifying. As you know better than I, according to telenovela rules (and the rules of cause and effect) we know that she will be squashed like a bug at the very end of our series.
Thank you so much for your kind words about the recap. They mean a great deal to me.
EJ
Vivi,
"I'm not disturbed that JL doesn't say te amo back. He's honest."
Which is of course why he told her that he hadn't seen Montserrat.
Carlos
"I'm not disturbed that JL doesn't say te amo back. He's honest."
Which is of course why he told her that he hadn't seen Montserrat.
Carlos
EJ ...I loved "we are often soothed by understanding." I have asked "Why?" at so many difficult times in my life. I thought it was my masters in Library science that had me always searching for reasons , but I guess it is just the human condition. I have found that sometimes the only answer to the question is,...It is what it is.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12:49:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12:49:00 PM EST
Delurking in defense of Montse (dinky little brain?), It's actually Montse who has been seen time and again picking up a book to read, while Maria only ever picks up a fruit or something to nibble on.
Back to lurking and enjoying reading the comments.
Lizzie
Back to lurking and enjoying reading the comments.
Lizzie
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12:55:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12:55:00 PM EST
Susanlynn:
Thank you for commenting so early.
First let me offer my condolences on the hideous weather you folks have been having. The weather can SO get you down.
Chin up, m'dear. It is always warm here on the Patio—and you can always find a good conversation.
Urban Anthropologist:
I am glad you think that I got inside the 'mind' of Maria. Great to hear that from you, veteran of so many operas and TNs! Thank you for your comments.
I agree with you—Maria is no match for Graciela. She is not even in the same CLASS is Graciela, who has sold her children for cold cash.
I also agree with you that some secret about Graciela that Padre Anselmo knows will soon be spilled. Duh duh duh.
EJ
Thank you for commenting so early.
First let me offer my condolences on the hideous weather you folks have been having. The weather can SO get you down.
Chin up, m'dear. It is always warm here on the Patio—and you can always find a good conversation.
Urban Anthropologist:
I am glad you think that I got inside the 'mind' of Maria. Great to hear that from you, veteran of so many operas and TNs! Thank you for your comments.
I agree with you—Maria is no match for Graciela. She is not even in the same CLASS is Graciela, who has sold her children for cold cash.
I also agree with you that some secret about Graciela that Padre Anselmo knows will soon be spilled. Duh duh duh.
EJ
I'm so eager for Rosario to announce her status. Alejandro certainly needs his mama's guidance (not to mention authority), but imagine how María and Graciela in particular will react and respond.
Has he even talked with Victor since their return?
Carlos
Has he even talked with Victor since their return?
Carlos
Daisynjay:
Amiga, your compliment made me blush and smile. I am so glad you enjoyed the recap. I am sure it was not to everyone's taste!
Thanks so much for your kind words.
Diana:
Thank you for your generous comment. Hee hee hee, I was looking for insults for Maria to hurl at Graciela that fit with her country upbringing. I thought of 'dung beetle' and myself laughed out loud. It is just so NASTY but not quite vulgar.
Alejandro is spiraling down, fast.I share Monserrat's fear that he will hook up with Joaquin Arechiga soon, and Joaquin's rage a malice will light the fuse to Ale's keg of dynamite. That man is just waiting to self destruct.
I don't look forward to Ale finally blowing. Yikes. the outcome can only be bad.
He had better not hurt Angelica in the process or he will be beyond rehabilitation.
Lila! I am delighted by your comment and thrilled that you dropped by. Thank you.
I could not agree more about the writer's attitude toward Esme. You said it best:
'They do it with an reductio ad absurdum argument/scene.'
O true, true, true! I threw nerfazos at the screen during that absurd scene. Is that the macho view of a loose woman's reaction to someone trying to control her? I HATED that scene.
I was also glad she dumped Refugio. He cannot change or control who she is—and he should not try. If pole dancing/stripping is her profession and she likes doing that, then she should find a partner who can tolerate her choices.
Dear Jarifa:
I am glad you enjoyed the recap and the quotations. ITA with you on Josefina. She is boring me with her insistence that Dim can be MADE to fall in love with her. Maybe the character is just going to play the 'victim' to Dimitrio's 'abuser'.
I'll be sad if there is no makeover, though. Veronica is a beautiful woman and I am tired of people speaking of Josefina as though she were fea. Snort. Nonsense.
EJ
Amiga, your compliment made me blush and smile. I am so glad you enjoyed the recap. I am sure it was not to everyone's taste!
Thanks so much for your kind words.
Diana:
Thank you for your generous comment. Hee hee hee, I was looking for insults for Maria to hurl at Graciela that fit with her country upbringing. I thought of 'dung beetle' and myself laughed out loud. It is just so NASTY but not quite vulgar.
Alejandro is spiraling down, fast.I share Monserrat's fear that he will hook up with Joaquin Arechiga soon, and Joaquin's rage a malice will light the fuse to Ale's keg of dynamite. That man is just waiting to self destruct.
I don't look forward to Ale finally blowing. Yikes. the outcome can only be bad.
He had better not hurt Angelica in the process or he will be beyond rehabilitation.
Lila! I am delighted by your comment and thrilled that you dropped by. Thank you.
I could not agree more about the writer's attitude toward Esme. You said it best:
'They do it with an reductio ad absurdum argument/scene.'
O true, true, true! I threw nerfazos at the screen during that absurd scene. Is that the macho view of a loose woman's reaction to someone trying to control her? I HATED that scene.
I was also glad she dumped Refugio. He cannot change or control who she is—and he should not try. If pole dancing/stripping is her profession and she likes doing that, then she should find a partner who can tolerate her choices.
Dear Jarifa:
I am glad you enjoyed the recap and the quotations. ITA with you on Josefina. She is boring me with her insistence that Dim can be MADE to fall in love with her. Maybe the character is just going to play the 'victim' to Dimitrio's 'abuser'.
I'll be sad if there is no makeover, though. Veronica is a beautiful woman and I am tired of people speaking of Josefina as though she were fea. Snort. Nonsense.
EJ
Wow, what a fascinating account. Thank you for your fantastic composition efforts! A+ for both content and style. Maria is certainly a character who gets under the skin, like a particularly itchy parasite.
My old piano teacher would have reamed Nadia for having such long nails and playing so flat-fingered.
I did not see that Dim and Virginia hookup coming. And then while I was still gagging over that, we see Adolfo putting the slimy moves on Josefina! Gag! He made my skin crawl.
Esme's revenge was certainly low-class, but it made me laugh. I don't dislike her, but she is right that she and Refugio are not compatible. Although I also think perhaps she should examine why, exactly, she is so hooked on grinding on pervy strangers, and whether there isn't any other career she might prefer.
JL thinking he needs to go see Montse. Right, because a woman in labor really wants to entertain guests.
My old piano teacher would have reamed Nadia for having such long nails and playing so flat-fingered.
I did not see that Dim and Virginia hookup coming. And then while I was still gagging over that, we see Adolfo putting the slimy moves on Josefina! Gag! He made my skin crawl.
Esme's revenge was certainly low-class, but it made me laugh. I don't dislike her, but she is right that she and Refugio are not compatible. Although I also think perhaps she should examine why, exactly, she is so hooked on grinding on pervy strangers, and whether there isn't any other career she might prefer.
JL thinking he needs to go see Montse. Right, because a woman in labor really wants to entertain guests.
Julia,
"...we see Adolfo putting the slimy moves on Josefina! Gag! He made my skin crawl."
So wrong in a couple of ways. Dimitrio is not only his best friend but he is also Josefina's cousin. Yikes.
Carlos
"...we see Adolfo putting the slimy moves on Josefina! Gag! He made my skin crawl."
So wrong in a couple of ways. Dimitrio is not only his best friend but he is also Josefina's cousin. Yikes.
Carlos
He's Josefina's cousin? I thought their parents were just friends. He did once tell Dim that Josefina felt like a cousin to him, because of how their families used to hang out together, but I don't think he meant they were actually cousins.
Carlos..I did not know that Jo and Adolfo are cousins.
Dim and Dimmer are amazing. They will do almost anything to avoid getting an honest job. As gigolos , they leave a lot to be desired.
Dim and Dimmer are amazing. They will do almost anything to avoid getting an honest job. As gigolos , they leave a lot to be desired.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 1:50:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 1:50:00 PM EST
The whole Esme dancing thing is so silly. It's not like she's dancing in Tony Soprano's Bada Bing Club. Heck, Don Francisco has racier dancers on his show.
On the other hand, Refugio is an idiot.
On the third hand, er, wait…
----
Julia, I think you're right about Fina. She and Addled aren't cousins, just old friends. (But that would mean Carlos is mistaken. And that never happens, right?)
[snort]
On the other hand, Refugio is an idiot.
On the third hand, er, wait…
----
Julia, I think you're right about Fina. She and Addled aren't cousins, just old friends. (But that would mean Carlos is mistaken. And that never happens, right?)
[snort]
I'm a little upset with Virginia, to tell you the truth.
If she needs to act out, there are plenty of slugs in the sea with whom to do so. Why pick precisely THIS slug to exploit her when he is our dear Josefina's personal slug, a slug CA SA DO (as the word has been pronounced for us lately)?
If she needs to act out, there are plenty of slugs in the sea with whom to do so. Why pick precisely THIS slug to exploit her when he is our dear Josefina's personal slug, a slug CA SA DO (as the word has been pronounced for us lately)?
How much you want to bet Ale shows up at the hospital and sees JL and get all worked up again. By the way, JL has no business going to see. I guess the reconciliation is for another 50 episodes. I can't survived it much longer.
Romy
Romy
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 2:04:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 2:04:00 PM EST
NovelaMaven...perhaps Virginia has led a very sheltered life. She has just applied to college , so hasn't met any of the collegiate slugs. Dim was evidently her only option at this moment in time. I wish he would at least comb his hair and get the maid to iron his shirt. If there is anything worse than a slug, it's an unkempt slug. What's the big attraction ? Perhaps Ginny is attracted to the dim one because he originally set his cap for her big sister.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 2:07:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 2:07:00 PM EST
EJ, I am just blown away. And I can't believe you have one SHRED of doubt about your potential to be a published author. When I (hopefully) meet you this spring, I'm printing this recap out and having you sign it!:)
While I loved your dark and disturbing snapshot into Maria's mind, I found this episode a bit over the top. Fatal Attraction meets Friday the 13th. And when the happy friends trotted off to the concert and the camera panned to Maria standing in the shadows of Montsy's house I was like "What show am I watching!?"
Nonetheless, some good came out of the epi. i.e. Maria is out in the open as a complete WACKO. I would think she had more self preservation skills than killing Montsy in plain sight at a concert crawling with police officials!
And I will bet hard cash that the first time Ale crawls out of his hole to visit Montsy, JL (who I'm gonna have to start hating again) is going to turn up at the hospital. Without his wife. Valgame Dios!!!
Thank you, EJ, for this little slice of heaven. I think all of us save your recaps as our reward for doing whatever we don't want to do on Friday! :)
While I loved your dark and disturbing snapshot into Maria's mind, I found this episode a bit over the top. Fatal Attraction meets Friday the 13th. And when the happy friends trotted off to the concert and the camera panned to Maria standing in the shadows of Montsy's house I was like "What show am I watching!?"
Nonetheless, some good came out of the epi. i.e. Maria is out in the open as a complete WACKO. I would think she had more self preservation skills than killing Montsy in plain sight at a concert crawling with police officials!
And I will bet hard cash that the first time Ale crawls out of his hole to visit Montsy, JL (who I'm gonna have to start hating again) is going to turn up at the hospital. Without his wife. Valgame Dios!!!
Thank you, EJ, for this little slice of heaven. I think all of us save your recaps as our reward for doing whatever we don't want to do on Friday! :)
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 2:11:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 2:11:00 PM EST
Vivi:
Thank you for you comments, Vivi. They mean a lot to me.
You asked a really good question about Dimmy. It is said that a fool and his money are soon parted by what DOES he have to show for it? Is he gambling? Addicted to drugs? He just cannot be spending that much money at the Local cantina where he meets up with Addled.
Julia Rold:
I am delighted that you enjoyed my 'character study' of Maria. It is dark in her little pea brain, I must say. I am glad to escape to the light of day. Whew.
Pasofino: Wow. I am so flattered to have the recap described as 'pure genius'. I am delighted that you enjoyed it.
I was disgusted with Dimitrio's behavior last night. He is indeed, as you said, 'scoundrel number one'. Virginia is underage, it has been established. Amelia said last night that she has a year before she takes her University entrance exams. I guess that puts her at 16-17. Does anybody know the timing on the University system in Mexico? If so, pls. advise.
I can only hope that Dim predating lost and lonely little Virginia will land him in jail.
Fatima: You are too kind. Thank you. I will work on writing more consistently. Big smile.
I agree with you on Josefina's obsession with Dim; it is nauseating. If Tomas really loved his sister he would get her into therapy, STAT, before she ruins her life with poor decisions.
EJ
Thank you for you comments, Vivi. They mean a lot to me.
You asked a really good question about Dimmy. It is said that a fool and his money are soon parted by what DOES he have to show for it? Is he gambling? Addicted to drugs? He just cannot be spending that much money at the Local cantina where he meets up with Addled.
Julia Rold:
I am delighted that you enjoyed my 'character study' of Maria. It is dark in her little pea brain, I must say. I am glad to escape to the light of day. Whew.
Pasofino: Wow. I am so flattered to have the recap described as 'pure genius'. I am delighted that you enjoyed it.
I was disgusted with Dimitrio's behavior last night. He is indeed, as you said, 'scoundrel number one'. Virginia is underage, it has been established. Amelia said last night that she has a year before she takes her University entrance exams. I guess that puts her at 16-17. Does anybody know the timing on the University system in Mexico? If so, pls. advise.
I can only hope that Dim predating lost and lonely little Virginia will land him in jail.
Fatima: You are too kind. Thank you. I will work on writing more consistently. Big smile.
I agree with you on Josefina's obsession with Dim; it is nauseating. If Tomas really loved his sister he would get her into therapy, STAT, before she ruins her life with poor decisions.
EJ
NovelaMaven,
"But that would mean Carlos is mistaken. And that never happens, right?"
I believe there is even tee shirt out there that bears testament to that.
I could swear that Adolfo had told Dimitrio that he would pursue Josefina himself if she wasn't his cousin.
Carlos
"But that would mean Carlos is mistaken. And that never happens, right?"
I believe there is even tee shirt out there that bears testament to that.
I could swear that Adolfo had told Dimitrio that he would pursue Josefina himself if she wasn't his cousin.
Carlos
EJ--
What a treat. You thought right. We did enjoy it to the max. (Although some of us have taken issue with some of the inner workings of Maria's mind/personality.)
The best line was the reference to Montse being a rattlesnake in Maria's home and what she would do to it. (Although Vaca Rubia was a close second.)
I'm glad Maria noticed Graciela's awful getup. Maybe she did learn something while she was away.
Please, EJ, keep working on those unpublished gems you are hiding in a drawer somewhere. You don't want your kids to benefit posthumously, do you?
Eli--I didn't have a chance to comment yesterday. It was a recap to put your feather in. Brava.
@Carlos--"Who would have guessed that María is so well-read has such a wealth of knowledge. Certainly a contrast with Montserrat's dinky little brain."
--I have a strong suspicion that Maria was not delving into such weighty tomes whilst sitting by the pool on hers and Ale's non-honeymoon. Me thinks she used one of those generic covers to hide the fact she was reading all the back issues of Peepl en Hispanol, Glamour, Seventeen, Cosmo en Hispanol and several True Romance novels she found on the "take-one, leave-one" shelf in the community room at the hotel. (She also picked up an issue of Vivi, but it was in Japanese and the ladies in kimonos looked funny.)
My comment to Maria, if she is true to her calling, would be "she who hesitates is lost." You missed your chance to get away with murder. Montse's screams of contractions would have masked the screams of getting stabbed. Now you will have to resort to a little more thinking and planning--which impulsive little you have no real knack of being able to do.
What a treat. You thought right. We did enjoy it to the max. (Although some of us have taken issue with some of the inner workings of Maria's mind/personality.)
The best line was the reference to Montse being a rattlesnake in Maria's home and what she would do to it. (Although Vaca Rubia was a close second.)
I'm glad Maria noticed Graciela's awful getup. Maybe she did learn something while she was away.
Please, EJ, keep working on those unpublished gems you are hiding in a drawer somewhere. You don't want your kids to benefit posthumously, do you?
Eli--I didn't have a chance to comment yesterday. It was a recap to put your feather in. Brava.
@Carlos--"Who would have guessed that María is so well-read has such a wealth of knowledge. Certainly a contrast with Montserrat's dinky little brain."
--I have a strong suspicion that Maria was not delving into such weighty tomes whilst sitting by the pool on hers and Ale's non-honeymoon. Me thinks she used one of those generic covers to hide the fact she was reading all the back issues of Peepl en Hispanol, Glamour, Seventeen, Cosmo en Hispanol and several True Romance novels she found on the "take-one, leave-one" shelf in the community room at the hotel. (She also picked up an issue of Vivi, but it was in Japanese and the ladies in kimonos looked funny.)
My comment to Maria, if she is true to her calling, would be "she who hesitates is lost." You missed your chance to get away with murder. Montse's screams of contractions would have masked the screams of getting stabbed. Now you will have to resort to a little more thinking and planning--which impulsive little you have no real knack of being able to do.
Carlos:
"I believe there is even tee shirt out there that bears testament to that."
And you sent one to each of us, as I recall. ¿Captas? o te lo explico con manzanas…
"I believe there is even tee shirt out there that bears testament to that."
And you sent one to each of us, as I recall. ¿Captas? o te lo explico con manzanas…
Carlos...has that new teeshirt replaced the original....."trust me..I'm as doctor" tee ?
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 2:45:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 2:45:00 PM EST
Novela Maven:
I am so glad you are back with us, safe and sound. I missed you. I am also glad that you enjoyed my little joke regarding your DREADFUL earworm. I hear it may soon reach epidemic proportions. And just what will you say to the NIH when they come calling? Hee hee hee.
Priase does not get any better than "Splendid." Thank you, thank you. I put a little extra time into this recap.
As to you, Fatima, Audrey, Anita and others who have questioned Maria's cerebral nature. I can only cite my recent, albeit minimal, research. Recent studies have shown that pre-meditated murders spend a lot of time (many, many hours +++) reading (books) and researching (internet) how to commit their crimes.
While I agree with the general opinion that Maria would not normally be 'bookish' and certainly would not be generally well-read or thoughtful, I posit that she IS a psychopath, she IS ambitious and she has been driven by her obsession to gain confidence in planning and executing a murder.
Maria is grandiose, a legend in her own mind, as is often said. She is lucky to have escaped last night's murder attempt because her studies have not yet rendered her competent. But I suggest to you that she will continue to study and gain knowledge about how to successfully commit a murder and become more skilled and organized in the process.
I will admit that the choice of her study materials was mine, and not Alejandro's. She would probably be more likely to go on the Internet and google, "MurdersRUs".
That's my story, friends, and I am sticking to it.
EJ
I am so glad you are back with us, safe and sound. I missed you. I am also glad that you enjoyed my little joke regarding your DREADFUL earworm. I hear it may soon reach epidemic proportions. And just what will you say to the NIH when they come calling? Hee hee hee.
Priase does not get any better than "Splendid." Thank you, thank you. I put a little extra time into this recap.
As to you, Fatima, Audrey, Anita and others who have questioned Maria's cerebral nature. I can only cite my recent, albeit minimal, research. Recent studies have shown that pre-meditated murders spend a lot of time (many, many hours +++) reading (books) and researching (internet) how to commit their crimes.
While I agree with the general opinion that Maria would not normally be 'bookish' and certainly would not be generally well-read or thoughtful, I posit that she IS a psychopath, she IS ambitious and she has been driven by her obsession to gain confidence in planning and executing a murder.
Maria is grandiose, a legend in her own mind, as is often said. She is lucky to have escaped last night's murder attempt because her studies have not yet rendered her competent. But I suggest to you that she will continue to study and gain knowledge about how to successfully commit a murder and become more skilled and organized in the process.
I will admit that the choice of her study materials was mine, and not Alejandro's. She would probably be more likely to go on the Internet and google, "MurdersRUs".
That's my story, friends, and I am sticking to it.
EJ
Oh Anita, you had me laughing out loud with great relish with: "Me thinks she used one of those generic covers to hide the fact she was reading all the back issues of Peepl en Hispanol, Glamour, Seventeen, Cosmo en Hispanol and several True Romance novels she found on the "take-one, leave-one" shelf in the community room at the hotel. (She also picked up an issue of Vivi, but it was in Japanese and the ladies in kimonos looked funny.)"
What a way to end the day!
Diana
What a way to end the day!
Diana
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 3:13:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 3:13:00 PM EST
So good, thanks EJ! Wow, we're so lucky to have you as a recapper.
ITA Fatima. I'm repeating myself, but Josefina is so painfully lacking any self-esteem! A makeover will probably work in telenovelaland, but she needs help. It's sad to see her begging for attention from a man-boy, who is disgusting in every sense of the word. I don't care how 'redeemable' he might be, she deserves a better person. Who made it her job to fix him? Oh right, those misogynistic writers.
Marea Primavera
ITA Fatima. I'm repeating myself, but Josefina is so painfully lacking any self-esteem! A makeover will probably work in telenovelaland, but she needs help. It's sad to see her begging for attention from a man-boy, who is disgusting in every sense of the word. I don't care how 'redeemable' he might be, she deserves a better person. Who made it her job to fix him? Oh right, those misogynistic writers.
Marea Primavera
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 3:24:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 3:24:00 PM EST
Audrey:
So glad you are commenting—thank you. Of course you are right, we are watching melodramas here, after all. The characters are caricatures and have pre-set roles to play.
A friendly counter-poing follows:
But, if I am going to spend/waste? time in TN land, I want to think and reflect on what reactions I have to the characters and their actions. For me, such reflections can tell me a lot about myself and my assumptions AND I can SOOTH myself that I am doing something interesting with my time. Big grin.
Why DO cartoon-eevil caricatures like Maria elicit such strong reactions here on the Board? What does it mean that we all join in ill-wishing the woman and eagerly awaiting her coming anvil?
I would love to hear back from you on this. Thanks so much for encouraging thoughtful dissent on the Board. So refreshing.
NM: I agree that JL's reaction was foreshadowed in a few previous episodes. Your comment on noble behavior and its' longevity is very insightful. I have to think about this...
Carlos: I am glad you thought it clever of me to attempt to get inside Maria's head. You are a very clever man, and such words from you are high praise.
And, amigo, you caught me out. You commented yesterday:
"I'm still clinging to faint hope that María will start making better choices... however I think that guns, knives, and high heeled shoes are unwise choices."
This was a direct, umm, inspiration for Maria's distorted comment about Montse.
Alas, I have to agree with you. A Boyer is doing a wonderful job in creating the character of Montserrat. (I keep telling you guys to watch out for that one—she has real talent, interesting looks and she is one ambitious woman. Boyer herself, I mean.)
But I do not think Montse is going to become a medical doctor anytime soon. For me that would be a bigger stretch than to believe Maria would read Sun Tzu.
EJ
So glad you are commenting—thank you. Of course you are right, we are watching melodramas here, after all. The characters are caricatures and have pre-set roles to play.
A friendly counter-poing follows:
But, if I am going to spend/waste? time in TN land, I want to think and reflect on what reactions I have to the characters and their actions. For me, such reflections can tell me a lot about myself and my assumptions AND I can SOOTH myself that I am doing something interesting with my time. Big grin.
Why DO cartoon-eevil caricatures like Maria elicit such strong reactions here on the Board? What does it mean that we all join in ill-wishing the woman and eagerly awaiting her coming anvil?
I would love to hear back from you on this. Thanks so much for encouraging thoughtful dissent on the Board. So refreshing.
NM: I agree that JL's reaction was foreshadowed in a few previous episodes. Your comment on noble behavior and its' longevity is very insightful. I have to think about this...
Carlos: I am glad you thought it clever of me to attempt to get inside Maria's head. You are a very clever man, and such words from you are high praise.
And, amigo, you caught me out. You commented yesterday:
"I'm still clinging to faint hope that María will start making better choices... however I think that guns, knives, and high heeled shoes are unwise choices."
This was a direct, umm, inspiration for Maria's distorted comment about Montse.
Alas, I have to agree with you. A Boyer is doing a wonderful job in creating the character of Montserrat. (I keep telling you guys to watch out for that one—she has real talent, interesting looks and she is one ambitious woman. Boyer herself, I mean.)
But I do not think Montse is going to become a medical doctor anytime soon. For me that would be a bigger stretch than to believe Maria would read Sun Tzu.
EJ
And instead of reading Tom Clancy books on the couch, Fina should get out and do something. Start a charity, run a 5k, volunteer at the soup kitchen. Women like her and Tia are so passive. But at least Tia seems happy most of the time and has a really vibrant energy. Fina would benefit from having something to do and talk about!
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 3:31:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 3:31:00 PM EST
Josefina has dinero; Carlota and Monserrat need jobs. Carlota can design baby clothes at least. Gotta think of what Monse can do...
Elna June – You dipped inside Maria’s dark soul and came out unscathed. Riveting reading that left me spellbound, but I hope you get a nice massage or something to clear your head.
Esme, a dance of revenge, yes. Showing them your bra, no. You went too far. You have always known that your man is a doofus – sexy and loyal, but a doofus -- so give him a break. And what is your master plan for shaking it at Escondido anyway?
Interesting when Graciela said “this is the study where my husband died” and Ale let her know, nope, he died out there in the hallway. Even Graciela thought Ale had enough class and decency to bring Lauro into the study before lowering the boom.
I know Angie’s dying, but she needs to fill up her days with more than being JL's wife. I wish she would go back to painting. I’m thinking JL may wish he had said te amo if/when she dies on him. He married her selflessly to make her last days happy, but she's making him happy too. If he shows up at the hospital tonight, I will be PO'ed.
Esme, a dance of revenge, yes. Showing them your bra, no. You went too far. You have always known that your man is a doofus – sexy and loyal, but a doofus -- so give him a break. And what is your master plan for shaking it at Escondido anyway?
Interesting when Graciela said “this is the study where my husband died” and Ale let her know, nope, he died out there in the hallway. Even Graciela thought Ale had enough class and decency to bring Lauro into the study before lowering the boom.
I know Angie’s dying, but she needs to fill up her days with more than being JL's wife. I wish she would go back to painting. I’m thinking JL may wish he had said te amo if/when she dies on him. He married her selflessly to make her last days happy, but she's making him happy too. If he shows up at the hospital tonight, I will be PO'ed.
EJ: Why DO cartoon-eevil caricatures like Maria elicit such strong reactions here on the Board? What does it mean that we all join in ill-wishing the woman and eagerly awaiting her coming anvil?
I don't necessarily like to see baddies get the anvil to help me deal with real life but within the little fantasy world I permit a novella/movie/book to create in my head, I like to see justice dealt out to those whom I deem eeevil-doers. It's just satisfying. And it justifies spending/wasting one's time with the story in whatever form it is presented. I am willing to invest my emotions into a little mini fantasy and the writers owe me a satisfying return on my investment.
I've had to take a cue from the name of our beloved patio and lower my expectations for some characters and storylines: Dim, Fina, I kicked Nadia to the curb long ago and I'm afraid Ale is stuck in a holding pattern. . .seems the actor has even withdrawn his soul from the core of the character leaving us with an angry shell.
Ah. . .oh well!
Lila
I don't necessarily like to see baddies get the anvil to help me deal with real life but within the little fantasy world I permit a novella/movie/book to create in my head, I like to see justice dealt out to those whom I deem eeevil-doers. It's just satisfying. And it justifies spending/wasting one's time with the story in whatever form it is presented. I am willing to invest my emotions into a little mini fantasy and the writers owe me a satisfying return on my investment.
I've had to take a cue from the name of our beloved patio and lower my expectations for some characters and storylines: Dim, Fina, I kicked Nadia to the curb long ago and I'm afraid Ale is stuck in a holding pattern. . .seems the actor has even withdrawn his soul from the core of the character leaving us with an angry shell.
Ah. . .oh well!
Lila
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 4:35:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 4:35:00 PM EST
Mony could be a personal shopper. The girl has style despite growing up with disGraceful as an example.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 4:39:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 4:39:00 PM EST
I think Mony should start as a personal shopper/stylist/sales assistant, and take some business classes on the side and work toward owning her own boutique.
Look. I don't want to foment Panic on The Patio…
…but ever since the episode in which Montserrat and Carlota allowed María to turn them away from a meeting with Alejandro, I have had my suspicions. And now I am sure of it:
The Monkey Writers are back!
Now that we are all addicted and find our thoughts turning strangely to Toyota pick-ups (because you never know what you'll have to haul), the ACTUAL writers are on hiatus and the simians rule.
As luck would have it, we know how to make our own fun on The Patio. If we don't like the way the MONKEY story is going, we make up our own.
[As Lila points out so nicely, in our little world, we have the satisfaction of seeing justice done to the evil ones and the great pleasure of anticipating and imagining that justice well in advance.]
…but ever since the episode in which Montserrat and Carlota allowed María to turn them away from a meeting with Alejandro, I have had my suspicions. And now I am sure of it:
The Monkey Writers are back!
Now that we are all addicted and find our thoughts turning strangely to Toyota pick-ups (because you never know what you'll have to haul), the ACTUAL writers are on hiatus and the simians rule.
As luck would have it, we know how to make our own fun on The Patio. If we don't like the way the MONKEY story is going, we make up our own.
[As Lila points out so nicely, in our little world, we have the satisfaction of seeing justice done to the evil ones and the great pleasure of anticipating and imagining that justice well in advance.]
Novela maven....HA....,"because you never know what you'll have to haul"...made me giggle.
Did anyone else notice Pedro slap himself during his wife's recital? He looked bored out if his gourd.
Did anyone else notice Pedro slap himself during his wife's recital? He looked bored out if his gourd.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 4:59:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 4:59:00 PM EST
NovelaMaven, I think you're right! Last night as Maria stood there with that big honking knife after the 10 month pregnant, on the verge of popping a head Montse went out to catch some air ALONE I was like. . .I don't know I had a little shift. I thought this is stupid! Maria continuing to hang around until Adolfo could catch her and wrench the knife away. Somehow her crying didn't seem to match up with the Maria I've come to know and hate. . . . .and then that whole I'm gonna get back at you by humpin' all your buds at work. THAT didn't seem like Esme either. Holy crapoly, I think you're right!
It's the monkey writerrrrrrrrsssss!,
Lila
It's the monkey writerrrrrrrrsssss!,
Lila
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:01:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:01:00 PM EST
Julia...I think that you and I should be life coaches. What do you think ? I knew a personal shopper. She used to shop for the wife/wives ???? of the Sultan of Brunei. Her husband was a pediatrician , and I think that she just wanted to keep busy. She a,so worked at an art gallery part time.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:03:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:03:00 PM EST
They need to put an ankle bracelet on Joaquin because that guy will stop at nothing to break up his daughter's marriage.
There could be collateral damage in his crazed quest, like Amelia and Virginia!
There could be collateral damage in his crazed quest, like Amelia and Virginia!
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:06:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:06:00 PM EST
I read the recap last night around 1 am and I thought to myself "darn that's good!", Elna, you are amazing! Thank you for the wonderful recap!
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:09:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:09:00 PM EST
Elna June,
I haven't finished reading all the comments, but I had to stop and tell you how much I enjoyed reading your recap. It was just spectacular. Your thought of getting into BM's disturbed mind was genius. It was like reading a #1 Best Selling Novel. I do not doubt that you will be published one day. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.
back to comments...hasta pronto!
I haven't finished reading all the comments, but I had to stop and tell you how much I enjoyed reading your recap. It was just spectacular. Your thought of getting into BM's disturbed mind was genius. It was like reading a #1 Best Selling Novel. I do not doubt that you will be published one day. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.
back to comments...hasta pronto!
None of this recent monkey business was in the much shorter AR. The younger sister did not get involved with the leading lady's brother. The housekeeper never tried to kill the leading lady. There was no Esme or Refugio. No piano recital. Maybe we should have a craft table in the bunker because we seem to be entering a zone filled with...filler. Maybe we could exchange recipes or share organizing tops. Yawn.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:11:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:11:00 PM EST
Yes, let's be life coaches. I have no clue what to do with my own life, but I'd love to sort out other people.
Maybe Maria was crying because she realized the place was crawling with police and other officials, so she'd never get away with it and she'd have to go to prison. Or maybe she saw Victor fussing over Montse and thought to herself, "I could have had a relationship with a caring guy like him, in fact, actually him, instead of pretending to have a relationship with a cold angry shell who pays no attention to me."
Nah. She was just crying because her "plan" (step one: take knife. step two: stab Mony and baby) didn't work.
Maybe Maria was crying because she realized the place was crawling with police and other officials, so she'd never get away with it and she'd have to go to prison. Or maybe she saw Victor fussing over Montse and thought to herself, "I could have had a relationship with a caring guy like him, in fact, actually him, instead of pretending to have a relationship with a cold angry shell who pays no attention to me."
Nah. She was just crying because her "plan" (step one: take knife. step two: stab Mony and baby) didn't work.
Julia..ditto..it is always easierbtomgive advice to other people. I think that we would be great at this.
So...back to the drawing board for Malria, Adolfo threw her big knife away, but there a rev a lot more where that one came from..which is the knife block in the hacienda kitchen. Hmm...will Dominga notice that her supply of knives is dwindling ? Oh well, time for our girl to have a snack on the sofa and do a little brainstorming.
So...back to the drawing board for Malria, Adolfo threw her big knife away, but there a rev a lot more where that one came from..which is the knife block in the hacienda kitchen. Hmm...will Dominga notice that her supply of knives is dwindling ? Oh well, time for our girl to have a snack on the sofa and do a little brainstorming.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:24:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:24:00 PM EST
Didn't Maria look like Robin Hood in that outfit? She just needed a hat with a feather in it. I guess she is all about taking from the rich and giving to the poor, as long as the poor is herself.
Gosh, don't you guys love Macario and Dominga! Thank goodness for them and yes, the excitable Padre, too. Macario, though, is really an island of good sense and cut-the-crapness! Please don't let the monkey writers get to him!
Lila
Lila
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:55:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 5:55:00 PM EST
Yes, neither Marcario or Dominga are having any of MALria's nonsense.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 6:26:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 6:26:00 PM EST
I noticed Dominga didn't really do that careful a job of cleaning up the broken glass. Actually, she didn't even wipe up the spilled liquid, either. She just swept up the big pieces. Maybe she's hoping Malria will fall in her fancy shoes she can't walk in.
Maria threw that glass on the floor on purpose and Dominga knew it. She should have made her clean it up.
It is high time Alejandro saw what a destructive force Malria is.
It is high time Alejandro saw what a destructive force Malria is.
It couldn't have been more obviously deliberate. How many more of these scenes will the kitchen staff have to put up with before Ale will happen to witness one of them?
Julia:
You are cracking me up today. I just caught up with the comments. I'll bite.
You ans Susanlynn are hired as my personal life coaches.
Soooo, what do I do next?
EJ
You are cracking me up today. I just caught up with the comments. I'll bite.
You ans Susanlynn are hired as my personal life coaches.
Soooo, what do I do next?
EJ
Novela Maven:
Alas, I should have known by my own temptation to write TOO MUCH-the Monkey Writers are back.
-Why else would Esme get such a bad case of the stupids?
-Why would Rulli have stopped acting?
I cannot remember the name of the head monkey, was it Fluffy? Ah, yes, it comes back to me now. I think I named him Fluffy.
Maven, you may have to interview Fluffy in your next 'Simians On the Patio' episode, and get teh scoop.
We heard it first from you, Maven. You broke the story right here on Caray Caray.
Grin.
EJ
Alas, I should have known by my own temptation to write TOO MUCH-the Monkey Writers are back.
-Why else would Esme get such a bad case of the stupids?
-Why would Rulli have stopped acting?
I cannot remember the name of the head monkey, was it Fluffy? Ah, yes, it comes back to me now. I think I named him Fluffy.
Maven, you may have to interview Fluffy in your next 'Simians On the Patio' episode, and get teh scoop.
We heard it first from you, Maven. You broke the story right here on Caray Caray.
Grin.
EJ
Elna June, obviously you should write novels. That was so easy, I hardly feel like I can even charge you our usual fee of a briefcase full of cash.
ITA,
The monkey writers are back. There was some strange things going on last night. Especially that scene with Esme dancing for the boys. Whether or not you agree with her career choice, that scene was awkward.
I have a feeling that JL is going to return to our favorite sweaty, obsessive ex. In the avances he says that Montse is alone (meaning Ale is not around) and he needs to see her. He is going to show up at the hospital, I just know it. Anyone else notice that when Angie said 'te amo' he said nothing in return. He at least used to say 'te quiero', but now it's nothing.
Back to work...hasta pronto.
The monkey writers are back. There was some strange things going on last night. Especially that scene with Esme dancing for the boys. Whether or not you agree with her career choice, that scene was awkward.
I have a feeling that JL is going to return to our favorite sweaty, obsessive ex. In the avances he says that Montse is alone (meaning Ale is not around) and he needs to see her. He is going to show up at the hospital, I just know it. Anyone else notice that when Angie said 'te amo' he said nothing in return. He at least used to say 'te quiero', but now it's nothing.
Back to work...hasta pronto.
Elna June:
"-Why would Rulli have stopped acting?"
Just to clarify -- are you saying that what we are seeing now is just Rulli Being Rulli? Oh ho!
BTW, I heard that Fluffy had left Televisa under somewhat murky circumstances. There was talk that a gorilla named Alfonso was the latest rising simian star. Just a rumor? Hard to say.
"-Why would Rulli have stopped acting?"
Just to clarify -- are you saying that what we are seeing now is just Rulli Being Rulli? Oh ho!
BTW, I heard that Fluffy had left Televisa under somewhat murky circumstances. There was talk that a gorilla named Alfonso was the latest rising simian star. Just a rumor? Hard to say.
I think JL is being kind of a twit to not say "te amo" back to Ange. He does love her. He cared about her enough to marry her, they're happy together, he's obviously quite attracted to her...isn't that enough? There's no law that a person has to be the one and only person you have ever loved romantically in order to say that to them.
Niecie: Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. i am glad you enjoyed the recap.
Eli! Great to see you! I am delighted that you read the recap so early! I appreciate your compliment and I will accept it with grace. Thanks!
AuntyAnn: You are so encouraging and kind. I am thrilled with your compliment. Yeah! Maybe now I will actually DO something about writing. Smile.
Julia:
Great line:
'Maria is certainly a character who gets under the skin, like a particularly itchy parasite.'
Sidebar!
Julia and Carlos:
O I am very annoyed with Adolfo the Hun. Josefina maybe have a hopeless case of a broken spirit and he will not help matters by conning her AGAIN. What a grease-bag. What compost!
Adolfo and Dimmy - GET A JOB! Leave poor Josefina alone.
Julia: Robin Hood, yes. Robin Hood, Women in Spanx! It's got a real ring to it.
UA: When I saw Maria knock over the glass I immediately attributed to her dark plan to obtains MEANS to do the murder.
EJ
Eli! Great to see you! I am delighted that you read the recap so early! I appreciate your compliment and I will accept it with grace. Thanks!
AuntyAnn: You are so encouraging and kind. I am thrilled with your compliment. Yeah! Maybe now I will actually DO something about writing. Smile.
Julia:
Great line:
'Maria is certainly a character who gets under the skin, like a particularly itchy parasite.'
Sidebar!
Julia and Carlos:
O I am very annoyed with Adolfo the Hun. Josefina maybe have a hopeless case of a broken spirit and he will not help matters by conning her AGAIN. What a grease-bag. What compost!
Adolfo and Dimmy - GET A JOB! Leave poor Josefina alone.
Julia: Robin Hood, yes. Robin Hood, Women in Spanx! It's got a real ring to it.
UA: When I saw Maria knock over the glass I immediately attributed to her dark plan to obtains MEANS to do the murder.
EJ
Wow..Julia....a briefcase full of cash..I had no idea that the life coaching biz paid so well. I concur with your very valuable advice to EJ. I definitely agree with your professional opinion. EJ would be an excellent novelist. do we get a bonus briefcase of cash if we think up a catchy pseudonym for our EJ ? I also think that EJ would make an excellent therapist. WHAT ?? She IS an excellent therapist. Wow...I am good.
P.s. Julia...This may come as a surprise, but I actually have no credentials for being a life coach. I know...you are shocked, right ? Are we allowed to use a magic eight ball to help us make our suggestions ?
P.s. Julia...This may come as a surprise, but I actually have no credentials for being a life coach. I know...you are shocked, right ? Are we allowed to use a magic eight ball to help us make our suggestions ?
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 7:44:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 7:44:00 PM EST
NM:
Let's just say that folks on social media (in the past) have described handsome Sebastian as a bit of a diva.
It is probably considered an occupational hazard of being so stunningly good looking.
Also, do we think Dominga is the one who tailors all of Alejandro's fitted blue "work" shirts or does he send them out.
Grinz.
EJ
Let's just say that folks on social media (in the past) have described handsome Sebastian as a bit of a diva.
It is probably considered an occupational hazard of being so stunningly good looking.
Also, do we think Dominga is the one who tailors all of Alejandro's fitted blue "work" shirts or does he send them out.
Grinz.
EJ
Susanlynn, our methods are no one else's business. The results are what matters.
Elna June, I'm sure that whoever it is doing the tailoring finds it necessary to call him back for many, many fittings.
Elna June, I'm sure that whoever it is doing the tailoring finds it necessary to call him back for many, many fittings.
Julia...I like your style. I am definitely getting a Dilbert vibe from you.
Hey,,,tailoring for telenovela superstars ....another excellent piece of life coaching advice. Who wouldn't be willing to give us a briefcase full of cash for that bit of career counseling. We are on a roll. Sometimes things just work.
P.s. Can we find a copy of the Kuder Preference test that my high school guidance counselor used to administer every year ? ... check one or more answers...I enjoy 1) working with my hands. 2) wearing high heels. 3) snacking on the sofa. 4) chopping veggies with a gigantic knife 5) swindling money from clueless women. 6) dancing around a pole
Hey,,,tailoring for telenovela superstars ....another excellent piece of life coaching advice. Who wouldn't be willing to give us a briefcase full of cash for that bit of career counseling. We are on a roll. Sometimes things just work.
P.s. Can we find a copy of the Kuder Preference test that my high school guidance counselor used to administer every year ? ... check one or more answers...I enjoy 1) working with my hands. 2) wearing high heels. 3) snacking on the sofa. 4) chopping veggies with a gigantic knife 5) swindling money from clueless women. 6) dancing around a pole
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:03:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:03:00 PM EST
Susanlynn and Julia:
I am sure there are people here on the blog who would happily volunteer to be Ale's tailor's fitting assistants. I hear it is very exacting work.
Susanlynn, you are so intuitive.
Elna June IS my nom de plume—it is my grandmother's name. My real name is long and hard to spell.
Sending a virtual suitcase full of cash to you both. May your enterprise live long and prosper.
EJ
I am sure there are people here on the blog who would happily volunteer to be Ale's tailor's fitting assistants. I hear it is very exacting work.
Susanlynn, you are so intuitive.
Elna June IS my nom de plume—it is my grandmother's name. My real name is long and hard to spell.
Sending a virtual suitcase full of cash to you both. May your enterprise live long and prosper.
EJ
elna june sonoma said...
Audrey:
So glad you are commenting—thank you. Of course you are right, we are watching melodramas here, after all. The characters are caricatures and have pre-set roles to play.
A friendly counter-point follows:
But, if I am going to spend/waste? time in TN land, I want to think and reflect on what reactions I have to the characters and their actions. For me, such reflections can tell me a lot about myself and my assumptions AND I can SOOTH myself that I am doing something interesting with my time. Big grin.
------------------------------------
Sure, why not? Although it doesn't bother me that I spend/waste time in TN land. My Spanish keeps improving! :)
Blame my literal engineer brain. But if I'm going to analyze anybody - it's usually the show writers or producers instead! Like - why did they decide to make the character do that?
I do notice quite a few commenters seek to understand a character's motives and behavior. That's what we do in the "real world". Occasionally a character is so multifaceted or unusual that they merit close examination. I so enjoyed your backstory on that one El Talismán character that had studied the kama sutra arts (or whatever it was) overseas. But often they are pretty close to the archtypal TN characters. And I tend to be a bit cynical that many of the things that mystify on the surface are simply less than clean measures to simply move the plot along.
TNs have taken plenty of real-world psychology into account. They often do a great job of having the villain voice their "victimized" point of view. And also often have the villain project their own bad behavior and motives onto the people they end up hating. And several other characteristics such as lack of empathy, maturity, etc.
And thanks for noticing that I am commenting more. I am usually traveling in late Dec and most of Jan, so I miss out on the TNs during that time. Now I'm back home and watching with the rest of you - well, only this TN.
Audrey:
So glad you are commenting—thank you. Of course you are right, we are watching melodramas here, after all. The characters are caricatures and have pre-set roles to play.
A friendly counter-point follows:
But, if I am going to spend/waste? time in TN land, I want to think and reflect on what reactions I have to the characters and their actions. For me, such reflections can tell me a lot about myself and my assumptions AND I can SOOTH myself that I am doing something interesting with my time. Big grin.
------------------------------------
Sure, why not? Although it doesn't bother me that I spend/waste time in TN land. My Spanish keeps improving! :)
Blame my literal engineer brain. But if I'm going to analyze anybody - it's usually the show writers or producers instead! Like - why did they decide to make the character do that?
I do notice quite a few commenters seek to understand a character's motives and behavior. That's what we do in the "real world". Occasionally a character is so multifaceted or unusual that they merit close examination. I so enjoyed your backstory on that one El Talismán character that had studied the kama sutra arts (or whatever it was) overseas. But often they are pretty close to the archtypal TN characters. And I tend to be a bit cynical that many of the things that mystify on the surface are simply less than clean measures to simply move the plot along.
TNs have taken plenty of real-world psychology into account. They often do a great job of having the villain voice their "victimized" point of view. And also often have the villain project their own bad behavior and motives onto the people they end up hating. And several other characteristics such as lack of empathy, maturity, etc.
And thanks for noticing that I am commenting more. I am usually traveling in late Dec and most of Jan, so I miss out on the TNs during that time. Now I'm back home and watching with the rest of you - well, only this TN.
Oh - by the way - I'm seriously into wine. We sometimes travel our favorite region - the Pacific NW (particularly the Columbia River Valley) for the red wines we love so much. And I am a follower of the Costco Wine Blog.
Hmmm...Intuitive..,thank you...EJ...I just FELT you were going to say that.
So....you already have a pen name. Does that mean that Julia and I are not getting that second briefcase ?
Aren't old names delightful ? My grandmothers were Ida and Ruth. I do not know their middle names, but my favorite family name is my Aunt Eleanor Louisa Paulina.
So....you already have a pen name. Does that mean that Julia and I are not getting that second briefcase ?
Aren't old names delightful ? My grandmothers were Ida and Ruth. I do not know their middle names, but my favorite family name is my Aunt Eleanor Louisa Paulina.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:15:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:15:00 PM EST
Elna June, "But I suggest to you that she will continue to study and gain knowledge about how to successfully commit a murder and become more skilled and organized in the process."
Yes. I have to agree with you on this point, Elna June.
And this, Elna June, "But, if I am going to spend/waste? time in TN land, I want to think and reflect on what reactions I have to the characters and their actions. For me, such reflections can tell me a lot about myself and my assumptions AND I can SOOTH myself that I am doing something interesting with my time. Big grin."
YES. YES and YES!!!!! (Now, if I only knew how to make it in bold face type!)
Marea Primavera, "those misogynistic writers." :)) Oh yeah!
NovelaMaven, "monkey writers". Ok. Now I see why this whole Esme scene has been bothering me. It just didn't make ANY sense, but you have given us the answer!
Fatima
Yes. I have to agree with you on this point, Elna June.
And this, Elna June, "But, if I am going to spend/waste? time in TN land, I want to think and reflect on what reactions I have to the characters and their actions. For me, such reflections can tell me a lot about myself and my assumptions AND I can SOOTH myself that I am doing something interesting with my time. Big grin."
YES. YES and YES!!!!! (Now, if I only knew how to make it in bold face type!)
Marea Primavera, "those misogynistic writers." :)) Oh yeah!
NovelaMaven, "monkey writers". Ok. Now I see why this whole Esme scene has been bothering me. It just didn't make ANY sense, but you have given us the answer!
Fatima
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:21:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:21:00 PM EST
Audrey...I got a kick out of "blame my literal engineer brain." It made me think of my daughter who has a degree in math/computer science and has a very literal mind.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:22:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:22:00 PM EST
Audrey, "I do notice quite a few commenters seek to understand a character's motives and behavior."
Guilty as charged. :)
Fatima
Guilty as charged. :)
Fatima
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:25:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:25:00 PM EST
Fatimma,
Go to a page like: http://www.w3schools.com/ and take a quick and dirty tutorial on html.
For bold. Do this:
put the words you want bold between these brackets
Italics is
italics
:D Lila
Go to a page like: http://www.w3schools.com/ and take a quick and dirty tutorial on html.
For bold. Do this:
put the words you want bold between these brackets
Italics is
italics
:D Lila
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:39:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:39:00 PM EST
Ooops. . .my demonstration didn't show up, go to the web site above and click on html.
Lila
Lila
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:40:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 8:40:00 PM EST
Audrey:
Oh, we will have to geek together on wine! I really am enjoying Washington State wines right now.
I am in my advanced WSET certification process. Test in April. Next comes the Diploma.
Are you a champagne fan? I have a great recommendation for a special occasion bottle of sparkling that was made by a friend of ours here in Sonoma. 20 years old. Wonderful stuff. I would love to hear about your Washington Red recommendations.
Email me offline, if you like, @sdougherty3e@gmail.com
EJ
Oh, we will have to geek together on wine! I really am enjoying Washington State wines right now.
I am in my advanced WSET certification process. Test in April. Next comes the Diploma.
Are you a champagne fan? I have a great recommendation for a special occasion bottle of sparkling that was made by a friend of ours here in Sonoma. 20 years old. Wonderful stuff. I would love to hear about your Washington Red recommendations.
Email me offline, if you like, @sdougherty3e@gmail.com
EJ
Carlos and Lila, thank you for the instructions!!! I saw the instructions at the bottom of this box and right before the capcha ditty, but I've not been able to make it work, but now, I think I can do it!!
Fatima :)
Fatima :)
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:32:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:32:00 PM EST
TEST
Please bear with me while I run this little test.
Fatima
Please bear with me while I run this little test.
Fatima
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:36:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:36:00 PM EST
I did it! Thank you Carlos and Lila. :))
I kept leaving out the "forward slash". Your "visual" really helped me, Carlos. :))
Fatima
I kept leaving out the "forward slash". Your "visual" really helped me, Carlos. :))
Fatima
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:37:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 9:37:00 PM EST
Elna June,
"I am sure there are people here on the blog who would happily volunteer to be Ale's tailor's fitting assistants. I hear it is very exacting work."
ME! ME! PICK ME!!!! I will happily volunteer my time and services to this cause. I am available at any time. Please notify me if I get the job as Ale's tailor's sitting assistant.
"I am sure there are people here on the blog who would happily volunteer to be Ale's tailor's fitting assistants. I hear it is very exacting work."
ME! ME! PICK ME!!!! I will happily volunteer my time and services to this cause. I am available at any time. Please notify me if I get the job as Ale's tailor's sitting assistant.
Fatima and Carlos,
I always wondered how you guys did the bold and italics. I always wanted to use them, but didn't know how.
Thanks for the tip!
I always wondered how you guys did the bold and italics. I always wanted to use them, but didn't know how.
Thanks for the tip!
Lila and Carlos, it's always the little things! :))
Mil gracias!!
Fatima
Mil gracias!!
Fatima
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 10:02:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 10:02:00 PM EST
It's a miracle. If you spend enough time at Caraycaray, you can learn something new. Thanks !
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 7, 2014 at 10:12:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 7, 2014 at 10:12:00 PM EST
Guys, when I try it, it keeps saying your html cannot be accepted because it is not "closed". What am I doing wrong?
The close part is the bit in triangle brackets with the forward slash. For every HTML command - b, i , or whatever in triangle brackets at the start of the words being formatted, there has to be a corresponding one at the end with a forward slash in front on the format letter also inside the triangle brackets. That's the close bit.
Maybe I'm not in HTML mode...and of course I have no idea how to get there! But thanks for trying to help me Audrey.
If I'm writing a recap, there's a choice between "compose" and "html" but for just posting comments, I don't see anything.
If I'm writing a recap, there's a choice between "compose" and "html" but for just posting comments, I don't see anything.
JudyB, try this:
Type this symbol < before the word you wish to highlight.
Type i
Type this symbol >
Type the word or phrase
Now type the symbol <
Type a forward slash like this /
Type i
Type this symbol >
Now you have italics
Substitute b for i and you get bold
Type this symbol < before the word you wish to highlight.
Type i
Type this symbol >
Type the word or phrase
Now type the symbol <
Type a forward slash like this /
Type i
Type this symbol >
Now you have italics
Substitute b for i and you get bold
Good morning....bright, sunny, and brrrr cold here.
This is a whole new era...Caraycaray tutorials . Love.
I am pretty hopeless/clueless/careless when it comes to technology. Hub and daughters are way ahead , and now the six year old is trying to explain things to me. Daughter 2 gave me a gift card for iTunes for Christmas, but she still hasn't told me how to use it.
Word I'd..."soldhos". maybe that's what Pedro did.
This is a whole new era...Caraycaray tutorials . Love.
I am pretty hopeless/clueless/careless when it comes to technology. Hub and daughters are way ahead , and now the six year old is trying to explain things to me. Daughter 2 gave me a gift card for iTunes for Christmas, but she still hasn't told me how to use it.
Word I'd..."soldhos". maybe that's what Pedro did.
Permalink posted by : Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 9:18:00 AM EST
: Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 9:18:00 AM EST
Judy,
I can't think of a reason why this shouldn't work for you. Try this:
copy and paste this and/or type exactly:
<b>Judy</b>
post it and you should get:
Judy
Carlos
I can't think of a reason why this shouldn't work for you. Try this:
copy and paste this and/or type exactly:
<b>Judy</b>
post it and you should get:
Judy
Carlos
Ohmigosh...I was using the wrong slash and just now found the right one. This IS hope (still easier to capitalize for emphasis). But thanks Audrey, NovelaMaven and Carlos for the tips and to Susanlynn for joining in in iTunes bafflement. Were it not for my youngest child, I couldn't do that either.
Thanks All!
Thanks All!
Daer Friends:
There aws a mystery element hidden in yesterday's recap. There is no prize for getting it, but you could always ask Susanlynn and Julia for a share of their suitcase full of cash.
Hint: It has to do with my theory about why Pedro is willing to kill to get ahold of Alejandro's empty lands.
Hint # 2: I thought that all of Maria's reading would be purposeful, not abstract.
Hint # 3: Google 'Pemex' and 'oil siphoning'. Remember that all Mexican oil production is nationalized.
Gotta go teach.
Hasta luego,
EJ
There aws a mystery element hidden in yesterday's recap. There is no prize for getting it, but you could always ask Susanlynn and Julia for a share of their suitcase full of cash.
Hint: It has to do with my theory about why Pedro is willing to kill to get ahold of Alejandro's empty lands.
Hint # 2: I thought that all of Maria's reading would be purposeful, not abstract.
Hint # 3: Google 'Pemex' and 'oil siphoning'. Remember that all Mexican oil production is nationalized.
Gotta go teach.
Hasta luego,
EJ
Daer Friends:
There aws a mystery element hidden in yesterday's recap. There is no prize for getting it, but you could always ask Susanlynn and Julia for a share of their suitcase full of cash.
Hint: It has to do with my theory about why Pedro is willing to kill to get ahold of Alejandro's empty lands.
Hint # 2: I thought that all of Maria's reading would be purposeful, not abstract.
Hint # 3: Google 'Pemex' and 'oil siphoning'. Remember that all Mexican oil production is nationalized.
Gotta go teach.
Hasta luego,
EJ
There aws a mystery element hidden in yesterday's recap. There is no prize for getting it, but you could always ask Susanlynn and Julia for a share of their suitcase full of cash.
Hint: It has to do with my theory about why Pedro is willing to kill to get ahold of Alejandro's empty lands.
Hint # 2: I thought that all of Maria's reading would be purposeful, not abstract.
Hint # 3: Google 'Pemex' and 'oil siphoning'. Remember that all Mexican oil production is nationalized.
Gotta go teach.
Hasta luego,
EJ
<< Home
© Caray, Caray! 2006-2022. Duplication of this material for use on any other site is strictly prohibited.
