Caray, Caray!

It's getting very dark in here. Thank goodness we remembered to keep a stash of emergency candles (and comfort food) on The Patio. And beverages, of course. Your choice.
 

I so admire your talents as a writer, NovelaMaven; such a talent you have! Thank you so much.

The darkness is becoming a black hole, I'm afraid.

Fatima
 

NovelaMaven, thanks so much for your accomplished recap. Oy vey indeed. I'm usually concerned about villains but she said the child can't be born. It gives me bad flash-backs of PSMA where the worst villain I've encountered in tns was successful. Hopefully Maria's continued murderous impulses will be thwarted. I can't even allow myself to think about what she would attempt to do with Monse's lady garment.

NM, your observation about Dim's response, "But leave me and my sister alone!" made me pause. He needs to advance a lot more before I would allow him near Fina but both Graceless and I were speechless.

Do we know the shady deal Pedro is sending Joaquin? I hope Pedro and his crew suffer the humiliation of being exposed for the completely corrupt misogynists they are.
 

Novela Maven, this was such a well written summary of a mixed episode. I'm afraid our hopes for the young couples are going to be dashed (at least for now). Maria taking and burning the letter was a low point. Gracie left speechless was a first.

It might have been nice to see Montse in action with the school charity work instead of just hearing a quick summary. Oh well, for the most part, this TN is well written.

 

Excellent recap, NM!

We had one near Maria-free episode, and now the b!tch is back in full force. Stealing and burning letters, sending Ale off to kill or be killed, fondling guns and thinking about killing Monse and her child, and plotting evil things with Monse's underwear. All in one episode!

I'm sorry y'all, but Ale just looks like an idiot to me. He's still stuck on stupid, ticked at Monse, and determined to kill JL. Meanwhile, everyone else has moved on with their lives. Monse is focused on her baby (while doing work for the people in HIS community), and JL is happily married, to someone else. Get over yourself, Ale.
 

Hi, Novela Maven,

Awesome and perfectly written as always. I'm lurking and not commenting. But tonight, Comcast had a glitch and didn't record the novela, so I was very pleased to see that you had covered the entire episode early in the evening. I read (watched) it with your detailed assistance.

Overall I like the novela because it is fairly fast paced, but I cannot stand it when they throw in the usual tricks like burning the letter. Did anyone ever think of
having Victor ask Ale if he received that ever so important letter? That would be too simple.

Thanks again NM and to all recappers for their dedication.
 

Such drama, and such a juicy telling of it. Mil ocho mil gracias.

At least JL and Ange are behaving like proper newlyweds. Did you notice that the backside of the statue of the embracing couple in their sala was blurred out? *snort* Lunivision, you're too funny.

So we are to believe that over several months, Montse and/or Rosario never ran into Victor and asked if Ale got that letter?

Ale does not deserve happiness. What a stubborn twit. Get over yourself, Alejandolt!
 

Dearest NovelaMaven, it may be getting dark but your recap is a shining beacon. I do enjoy your pitch-perfect descriptions: "Alejandro shows no affection for María, there is now a certain familiarity between them, perhaps the kind that breeds, among other things, contempt." Huzzah! You nailed it. Wasn't it fun how Maria stumbled in her dominatrix shoes, and Alejandro made a comment about it? Bwahahahaaaaa. Maria is a Montse wannabe.

Thank you for this terrifically entertaining recap.
 

NovelaMaven:

Awesome recap! So loved the preamble you put up too.

I can't stand BM and her machinations! Basta Ya! I know it will go on for some time. My worry is what is she going to do with that crumpled picture of Monse and Monse's undies? I wouldn't put it past her to give them to Ale as further evidence of Monse's supposed perfidy. Just a guess. I wouldn't put anything past BM.

I felt so bad for Fina, but Dimwit now, surprised me. Not that he left Fina, that seemed to be telegraphed cause he didn't get the bennies he thought he would. No, what surprised me was his standing up to Gracie. I can't believe he actually took Monse's side and told his Graceless mama to find some other millionaire sucker to marry and mooch off of.

Nadia deserved what Esme dished out. I don't think Nadia ever thought Pedro would beat up a woman. Now she knows.

I really like Monse and Tia preparing for the bebe. It's just so sad what is happening to her because of BM.

So Padre stopped the annulment? Wow, I wasn't expecting that at all.

Loved JL and Angie "christening" the house. They are so wonderful together and I do like him in uniform. He is one sexy beast.

Thanks again, NovelaMaven for your most excellent recap!
 

While I'm waiting for my Sleepy Time tea to kick in, I thought I'd check in and see how everyone is holding up, now that our Hero seems to be on a downward spiral.

Dear Fatima:

This is tough stuff for sensitive people to watch. I find it helps to step back and remember that these are actors reciting lines, trying to stay cool in the Campeche sun, and probably pranking each other between takes. It also helps to have our friends here pointing out little silly things (check out Julia's comment about the pixillated statue in the house of the newlyweds, for example.)

Please don't get sucked into the black hole!

Karen:
I think one problem is that WE know how evil María is, but the characters, by and large, don't take her seriously. That makes her even more dangerous. The only exception is Macario. He seems to have her number, and I have hopes that he will keep her from doing anything really awful.

And no, we don't yet know what business Pedro and Joaquín are in. I doubt it's drugs -- that seems taboo in these stories. Human trafficking had a run here and on Telemundo. I hope that's not what it is, though. That would be too much to take.

La Paloma:

Referring to Montse's work like that but never showing her at the school or discussing it makes it seem like an afterthought rather than an integral part of the story. (So the writing's not perfect. As you say, for the most part, it is well done.)
 

Vivi:

No need to be sorry.

"Ale just looks like an idiot to me. He's still stuck on stupid, ticked at Monse, and determined to kill JL."

That's about the size of it. Really, María is exactly the woman he deserves. And vice versa.

Hi Floridia:

Sorry Comcast disappointed you but glad it brought you here tonight!

I don't think Alejandro has talked to Victor yet. Maybe Victor WILL think to ask him about the letter (though I'm not holding my breath.)

Julia:

ooh. Mil ocho mil gracias? Gracias por las gracias!

It's easy to believe that the hacienda people never saw the town people. But yeah, Victor is living in town so you'd think he'd bump into one of the ladies.

I do hope Alejandro listens to your advice.

Sylvia:
Would it be asking too much to see María actually fall in her dominatrix shoes? I mean a wobbly, new-born colt thing is fine for a chuckle, but we need more - let's see her land on her tuchus when she has just said something especially mean. (Or in horse dung would be good -- horse dung and heels. yes.)

Hi Mads:
When you think about it, there is so much creepiness and menace on every front. We can't even relax and enjoy JL and Angie without remembering the both Joaquín and Alejandro want to kill him and she is living on borrowed time.

And just when Esme and Refugio might have a little happiness, here comes the basura de Basurto to mess up their lives.

And that's not even considering the main players. Ufff.
 

Horse dung and heels. I'm getting quite a chuckle out of that. Thank you for the laugh NM.

ITA that last night's episode held many little surprises, Dim including his sister when griping to mommy, Esme ripping Nadia a new one (I assumed her beating would just be forgotten), Padre stopping the annulment, Maria finding the undies, the unexpected comedy of Maria wearing heels, JL and Angie being so durned happy, blurred statue backsides.

One of my favorite scenes was Gracie and Amelia's verbal sparring over lunch. Good dialogue and great facial expressions there.

I also liked the numerous setups, Dim taking a different tone, Montse telling Tia she is still young, Padre warning Ale that it might be "too late". I wasn't so loving Maria's murderous thoughts however. I hope she trips on her heels and falls on her own gun, Kapow!

NM, oh yes, Basurto is just getting started. Wait until he gets some confidence; he will be truly treacherous.
 

NovelaMaven, thank you for the recap, so beautifully written, and matches so well the tone of the “despues” episode, thoughtful of mood, and full of wisdom. You know how to set a mood. You must be a writer.
And best of all, snark abounds!

My favorites.
“Didn't anyone ever warn you about baiting sociopaths, Padre?”

“Conciliatory claw” perfect description of
Graceless’s gesture. ‘She rubs Amelia's shoulder. "You can count on me."’ That scene was too funny.

Joaquin, “a bitter, vengeful soldier in Pedro Medina crime syndicate.” So accurate, you paint a picture for us so clear one would not need to see the episode.

Ezekiel: “A couple of neurons appear to fire within his exceedingly thick skull.”

And grammar lessions, “¿Tú que crees?” a phrase that should come in handy sometime.

Finally, you summarized and consolidated scenes, and the recap wasn’t too long. These days I have little time to read and I appreciate summaries.

 

Let me join in the praise for your always fine writing, NovelaMaven. I thought your introductory paragraph was beautiful...tender..subtle. A wonderful lead-in to a very disturbing episode.

Fatima--maybe if we hold hands (or lock arms the way nervous basketball players on the bench do during a tight game) we can get through watching this. I am already in agony about Maria burning the letter.

NM--have to hand it to you, the

[even his sweating seems under control these days]

helped release me a little from the nervous sweat I was in just reading about these awful doins'.

Off to battle ice and snow in the driveway now. Travel is treacherous and not recommended but I've got a haircut appointment at noon, durn it! and no sane woman lets that go by! Will watch this later. Fatima, call me! I need some empathy to get through this.
 

Novela Maven, what a treat to read your recap this a.m. with so many wondrous phrases. Thanks!

I loved Dimitrio's suggestion to Graciela that she find a rich husband and leave him and his sister alone. I also found that ladt part curious. Has the treatment he has been as of late receiving from Graciela make him more sensitive to what his sister has had to put up with? Only time will tell.

I could not believe loose lips Nadia's surprise that Esmeralda had been beaten by Pedro after her own experiences by him slapping her and grabbing her. Really stupid. Almost as stupid as Josefina trying to keep Dimitri from leaving because he can't get his hands on her money. These women need to wake up and see the gravity of their situations.

What can I say about BM? The look is different but the heart just as hateful and cold. I wonder what happened or didn't that she has lost her *****eating grin.

Juventino's hidden items: yuk!

Well, it might be dark on the patio but I liked the suggestion of comfort foods. Hmmmm, what to bring?
I better start looking through my recipes!

Thanks again for the fun!

Jarifa
 

Excellent work, NovelaMaven.

I am shocked that Monserrat and Carlota are still under Graciela's roof. They should be at the hacienda getting it in profit mode. No matter what challenges there are in that it must by definition be easier than dealing with Graciela on an ongoing basis.

Since we haven't been shown Monserrat's activities in Alejandro's community project we have to wonder what else we've missed out on:

-- Have Dimwit and Josefina ever done the deed?
-- What other tortures has Pedro inflicted on Nadia?
-- What communication has taken place between Macario and Victor?
-- When did Padre Anselmo talk to the priest who filed the annulment request?

Carlota is a confirmed victim of Tita Syndrome. In a wealthy family (which apparently they were) there is no good reason for that. What unhappiness did she witness that she seems to have acquiesced to this?

Padre Anselmo was the perfect witness to stop the annulment proceedings. He knew Alejandro and Monserrat well enough and also seems aware of how the law would see this. Had he done nothing the situation would be beyond reparable in the real world:

-- Once the DNA test disclosed that Alejandro is the father of the baby Monserrat could sue him for defamation of character. That could carry punitive damages in addition to the child support the baby would be entitled to
-- If Monserrat is still under Graciela's roof the scandal would be never-ending because Graciela would never stop ranting about it
-- Not to mention that Graciela would find a way to take the money away from Monserrat.

However, knowing Monserrat as we do this scenario is unlikely.

I hate what she's done to her hair. The bangs make her look childish.

Maria showed real class -- not -- by putting those stupid ankle boots on Alejandro's desk.

I knew that the undies Juventino stole would come back to haunt. We need both Victor and the padre to be there when she tries to convince Alejandro that Monserrat was boinking Juventino.

As to Pedro's illegal activities, I'm convinced that it's drugs. Easier to transport than human slaves and probably more profitable in the long term. Probably also an effective plot extension to keep male viewers.
 

NovelaMaven: This was soothing balm for the soul. Beautifully written, enhanced by superb detail, thoughtful insight and as always, amazing humor.

"suffering her mother's insults without the buffer of her father's love", "towering dominatrix ankle boots", "Adolfo is still hanging around and hanging on" were wonderful. My favorite was "Having delivered a body blow with just a little more glee than is seemly in a man of the cloth, Padre Anselmo leaves the room". Excellent. I also laughed out loud at "conciliatory claw" - what an image- perfect.

Thank you so much for taking the time to translate Monse's letter. I know that must have taken a great deal of time and effort.

Of course my favorite scene was Angelica and JL. I suspect we needn't worry about their happiness! Steamy and hawt - good for them...

Vivi, no need for apologies. Ale is an idiot. Period. I had hoped he might return with a better attitude and a trace of the warmth and kindess we saw many episodes ago, but that person no longer exists. He is mired in the emotional muck he himself created. The only hope is the dear padre who keeps bulldozing along, still trying to make inroads in Ale's stubborness hoping Ale will listen to reason eventually.

So Maria found Juvie's stash of Monse paraphanalia. Karen, you stated with great flourish what is on our minds: "I can't even allow myself to think about what she would attempt to do with Monse's lady garment". ITA amiga. Shudder. Cringe.

I might suggest that a few of the convos at Ale's might be better held behind closed doors as Maria seems to be omnipresent, lurking about and hearing every tidbit of personal discussions taking place.

I suppose this is wishful thinking but I thought that Maria did not burn the entire letter, putting it under a plate when the good padre appeared. Or, am I wrong?? I suppose it's just wishful thinking.

Sylvia, yes, you are so right - there were indeed some unexpected yet pleasant surprises tonight and most of them very welcome. I like Nadia but she spoke out of turn and deserved the tongue lashing she got (I see you agree Madelaine). Padre stopping the annulment was a bomb shell! Good for him.

Nice to see your post Floridia!

Very interesting that Dim is now seemingly siding with Monse. He and Fina are at a standoff and I suspect Fina will have to make the next move. Adolfo is quite the leech, isn't he?

Carlota seemed so wistful - so happy that Monse supports and encourages her. Would love to see her with someone and as happy as she wants and encourages others to be.

Judy, please be careful. We are getting (another) foot of snow today and thankfully work has been cancelled. Stay warm and safe everyone.

Loving this show but the recaps even more. Thank you for this amazing recap NovelaMaven. I am truly appreciative.

Diana
 

NM, a wonderful recap for what I thought was an aggravating episode. Angie and JL were our happy in the storm, but that was far too brief.

No wonder Rulli said playing Ale is difficult. A supposedly smart man who cares about his workers and community and yet can be as stupid as the day is long when it comes to his personal life and dealing with his insecurities. The latter making him thoroughly unenjoyable to watch. And his continuing to allow Maria this "lady of the household" role is just stupid after all this time. He's just too damn lazy to deal with it now and has dug himself the hole. There is a hint of indifference for him towards her.

I'm not so sure Maria's antics are lost on those around her that they don't know what a loose cannon she can be. I would agree, they may not think she would go so far as to plot the death of someone so a child can't be born (BSC for sure), but it seems her behavior was always coddled and tolerated, no matter how whiny, mean or spoiled she acted. Seems everyone warns her and has those moments of knowing she'll possibly pull something...but they don't do anything about it. A few time outs in the corner wouldn't have hurt I think in her past.

So do we think we are getting a setup for Tia to find someone, or is she being setup to be a tragic character who sacrifices herself for others?? Getting a bad vibe there.

And I know Dim is behaving like the Dim Bulb we know and "love" but there are glimmers there of his growing intolerance with his mother I find interesting. By the way....what does Adolfo do besides mooch?

Daisynjay
 

NovelaMaven, my Dear what an absolute delight is this retelling of the latest chapter in our story! The lovely preface just flows and is so perfectly inviting and clear I could have started here without ever having seen anything prior and been drawn in! Passages like this are so vividly beautiful:

No longer in mourning, she is young and fresh in simple, floral dresses that easily accommodate, but don't conceal, the blossoming of her body.

How skillfully you capture and describe the emotional climate:

While Alejandro shows no affection for María, there is now a certain familiarity between them, perhaps the kind that breeds, among other things, contempt.

Maria definitely feels darker, like the palette of her upgraded duds. And oh how she slithered and hissed, literally in this episode:

María whispers: Ese niño no puede nacer

Dim, Dim, Dim, you won't make it easy for us, will you? Ok, so you see mommie dearest for who she is, you need to wake up to that useless slug of a "friend", Aldope-o. I guess if you could do that, you would start with the useless slug in the mirror.

And Fina. I'm holding out for her soul-xray that tells her Dim is worth saving. Her suffering is part of the package when she signed up to love this n'er do well!

Nadia is a good friend to Montse and all but I just feel like she still doesn't get that she betrayed Esme. I glad Esme told her off but not so deep down I don't think Nadia felt obligated to honor the trust of a "low life" woman like Esme. I, for one, haven't gotten over it and still don't like her.

Thanks to JL and Angie for bringing the heat last night! Whoo! That was a smokin' scene! With scenes like that it's easy to forget Angie is supposesd to be terminal. These two are bringing the only passion we have in this little tale of woe!

So Ale still loves Montse "in spite of everything" -- everything, like what, your stupidity, your bull-headedness, your having taken a rattlesnake in your home!? Everyone has heard Maria's rattles but you! Looks like it's going to take her striking before he realizes she's a snake! Gosh! I hope they don't let BM hurt Montse. . .would they do that. . .would they let a preggie protagonist be . . .I don't want to finish the thought.

NovelaMaven, thank you soooo much, what a warm accompaniment for this morning! It is snowing so hard it looks like a thick fog and we've about 5 more hours to go! Simply exquisite!

Lila
 

Lila- To finish your thought, the writers of Siempre just allowed the villains to succeed in killing the baby of the protagonist. It can happen, but I don't think it will happen here as this is a more traditional tn.
 

Dear NovelMaven,

A brilliant, funny, stylish, detail-filled recap, as always. It's winter-storming again here, and everything is closed, so it's been a pleasure to have the time to savor your recap this morning.

I love so many of your lines that others have already mentioned, but I want to re-quote this really smart and funny observation, which gave me a good laugh:
"Having delivered a body blow with just a little more glee than is seemly in a man of the cloth, Padre Anselmo leaves the room."

Padre is a great TN priest in that he defends the good and denounces the bad in a way we viewers love, but a real priest might worry about María herself more. He's really loves rubbing it in with her, as you point out.

Thanks, too, for translating the letter, giving us song lyrics, and pointing out useful phrases. I know this takes time, and your attention to all this great detail is generous and makes your recaps so rich and informative.

The meteorologists tell us we are in a "Deep Winter Pattern" now in New England that is hard to break once it gets started. There are more snow and storms on the way even after this storm today!

It's always sunny in Agua Azul, but I'm thinking that, dramatically, we are in a "Deep Winter Pattern" in this TN now, too--the darkest, dreariest period when the worst things happen and keep happening.

Still, I think last night showed there are some small signs of things changing: we know Ale still really loves Montse, at least; and we have adorable Angélica and new-look J-L in his series of uniforms to enjoy in the meantime.

Thanks again, NovelaMaven. I get up every Wednesday morning looking forward to your recap and am always richly rewarded!


 

I don't understand what Ale thinks love is. How can he say that he loves Monde, still. All his thoughts and words about her are negative, filled with resentment and hate. He thinks everything about her and that experienced with her is a lie. What does he love, when he thinks she is the worst person he has ever met?
 

I really wish my tablet would stop correcting Monse to Monde. :)
 

Oh my gosh, THANK YOU, NM, for bringing me up to speed! I was quite hazy last night about where Angie and JL were, where Dim was coming from (he and Fina seemed like Sleeping Beauty, suspended in the exact same argument as their wedding night). And the literal translation of Montsys sweet note was a treat. Even if Montsys handwriting does look like like popular high school girl writing. Was waiting to see an I dotted with a heart!

Like everyone, I loooove your writing:

He waits impatiently for Alejandro Almonte's return so he can point him -- like a gun -- in JL's direction.

I'm just glad that Tia witnessed Montsy going to Ales to reconcile and Victor is a witness to the letter from Montsy. Not sure Maria will get busted but at least we can hope for Ale feeling like an idiot when he hears from multiple sources he missed the boat.

ITA with Mads and others that Maria will use the underwear to further incriminate Montsy. But really, at this point, how much lower can Montsy sink in Ales eyes?!

Hope Montsys lawyer means Montsy is going on the offense. That'll get Ale thinking.

Thanks again, NM!!
 

I'm with you, Vivi!

It makes absolutely no sense that Ale says he still loves Monse. If he did, he would be very interested in claiming that child even if he didn't trust the mother! No other galan that I can think of in TN history has ignored the possibility of the child being his. He admits he has doubts. Padre tells him to his face that Monse knows the child is his because she never "failed him". Yet he is determined to ignore the child even though EVERYONE warns him it'll be to late once the child is born. The pigheadedness just doesn't ring true along with so easily admitting he loves Monse. It would only work if he claimed he hated her or just didn't care about her.

Thanks Novelamaven, that was just lovely. I couldn't help you with that one * sentence from the letter because something just doesn't seem right grammatically.
 

Viv ITA. His public defamation of Montsy, his pregnant WIFE, is cruel. How can he pretend to love someone he treats so horribly. I'd hate to see how he treats people he hates.
 

Dear Vivi and Adriana Noel,

Your egregious behavior of bashing Alejandro in several different posts and the Mentir Para Vivir chat room has been noted and reported. Please consider this your final notice that you have been permanently banned from the Alejandro table.

Signed the Alejandro Table

cc: Lo Que La Vida Me Robo Chat Room

cc: Mentir Para Vivir
 

I also think Maria will try to use the underwear and photo. Maybe plant them in the capataz house as "evidence" of Monte's infidelity. Just like I "knew" she would find and destroy Montse's letter - that was so clearly telegraphed.

She's been baited by the padre after all.

And she's so stupid. Dominga gave her good reasons for not telling Ale about Joaquin's news about JL's whereabouts. Does she really want Ale off running after JL? Probably not, but she just can't seem to help herself.

Since Ale seems to be so comfy having María underfoot, I think he deserves her as well!
 

I am guilty as charged. :)
 

No problem, we're too busy over at the Ale bashing table!
 

Dear Aubrey and Fatima,

The Alejandro Table has been minding it's own business until you guys bought the business to the Alejandro table in the Mentir Para Vivir chat room. You too are banned for life from sitting at the Alejandro table.

Signed the Alejandro Table

cc: Lo Que La Vida Me Robo
cc: Mentir Para Vivir
 

Oh no Vivi re killing a protagonist's baby! That's just about too much for me! I pray they don't go there! And ITA everything you said at 8:50. I know I've beat this subject to death but I just don't get this whole tact of misery and estrangement being the main theme for the leading couple with bookends of a few kisses and frustratingly butchered love scenes! The bad guys and rivals get the meat of the story and we're supposed to dig this? I know, I can turn the tv off but sheesh! Just needed to rant a little.

Lila
 

I just wonder if a lot of the problem we have with Ale's attitude is the writers trying to use the original storyline and then update with the newer medical and technological advancements that are out there versus 19th century. Ale's stubbornness on whether the child is his or not to me seems over the top because a DNA test is almost a given that can happen in these cases. I would get doubt, but his head in the sand vehemence is ridiculous to me.

I agree, the undying love admittance to the Padre was a surprise considering. I guess they say there is a fine line between love and hate...but again in a storyline in present day where domestic abuse is also being shown, to have your hero echoing similar verbiage and attitude, that's disconcerting to me. Maybe the macho bluster worked in 1870 with a hero being shown, but not so much now. I think we would have gotten the point of Ale sense of betrayal, etc. without him being so absolutely hateful in his behavior and words. Just seems wrong for a 21st century hero and I doubt people around him would be so tolerant of him, nor the community as well. He would be a source of talk and perhaps shunning for treating his "wife" this way. As Vivi pointed out yesterday, his behavior is the stuff of a full-fledged jerkwad right now. Can you imagine the twitter comments this would be generating?

"#JerkwadAle at it again. Saw him again with that #MariaHo. Poor #MonseMomma".

Again, as well as most of this TN is being written, when they are doing these rewrites of rewrites, I wish there was more of an effort to look at what would be acceptable and understandable for behavior in the current day too.

Daisynjay
 

Excellent analysis Daisynjay. . .hey. . .how about somebody writes an original story? There's a thought! Sheesh! So all the good stuff happened in the 19th century and we just have to rework it all? I wonder if these guys ever look at this and the Spanish language novella forums. We're actually on their side!

Lila
 

Cynderella, Novia de???, I PROUDLY relinquish my right to sit at the Alejandro table, AMIGA. :))

Dear NovelaMaven, I know it almost sounds ridiculous that some of these scenes affect me so, but that was the card I was dealt and I will fight that black hole with all my strength! When you and Urban start publishing books, I I will be first in line!

JUDYB!!!! I am here!! YES, we can be like those basketball players on the bench as they sweat out the next point! Alejandro is getting darker to me and I fear that the Whore Maria's sphere of influence is spreading far and wide over his mind and body. Maria IS a Black Hole. Alejandro seems to be succumbing to its gravitational pull. I am so glad you are here, JudyB; so GLAD you are here. My thought is: why don't we just sit and wait for Carlos and his latest defense of the Whore Maria? I know he dearly enjoys getting us all riled up, so let's use his latest creative defense of Maria to our advantage and enjoy the laugh!

Dear Carlos, we are waiting, amigo!

Fatima


 

Question: who was responsible for Whore Maria's makeover? Did Whore Maria want this or did Alejandro direct this Make Over?

Fatima
 

Fatima- I'm sure the makeover was all Maria's idea. Ale can't be bothered.

It would be interesting to learn what they have been doing all these months. They still share the same bed, but is anything happening in that bed?

It's odd, because everyone else seems to have had some movement/change in their lives, except Ale. Can a person really spend all those months stuck at the exact same level of rage, without some introspection or evolution of emotion or thought? I think the writers (who have been very good) fell down with this.

 

I'm sure if anything had been happening in that bed, even only once, Maria would be all smug and cheery radiance, not sullen and dark.

It's bizarre that they've been sharing the same room all these months.
 

Vivi in DC, you ask a very good question. I agree.

Audrey, from Whore Maria's persistently sullen look, I suspect nothing is going on in that bedroom. I am totally amazed that Whore Maria remains in Alejandro's bed. For what, I ask?

Fatima
 

I don't think any boinking happened while Alejandro and Maria were away. We also weren't shown the trip due to budget cuts that won't allow for location shooting in Europe (or wherever).

I'm sure he gave Maria a wad of cash and sent her shopping on her own; the first time he looked as bored as an artist at an insurance salesmen's convention.

As for burning the letter, there was still some untouched paper when she put it in the stove burner. There is time for Dominga to find it and there may be something recognizable on it.

As to Alejandro's irrational behavior, remember that this was written before 1983. His behavior in this is reminiscent of the "heroes" of Rosemary Rogers' novels of the 70s. I found her unreadable because she allowed so much viciousness between her protagonists. There may be only so much you can change without fundamentally changing the story and by then you may as well be writing something completely original.

 

Yah, the relationship IS stoopid, and unnecessary. I guess we're supposed to gather Ale is being driven mad by his love of the faithless Montse and Maria is being driven to darkness by this same love which makes Ale reject her so she channels pervemeister to show her her next moves. Hopefully this is prophetic and she ends up like Juvenpervo did.

Lila
 

NovelaMaven,
Thanks a million for this wonderful recap. I am at jury duty this morning, and having your recap and the comments to read while I wait for my name to be called or get dismissed has been a delight.

All if my favorite lines have already been mentioned.

Diana,
I too thought that BM didn't burn all if the letter. I guess I'm a wishful thinker too. Let's hope that Dominga or Macario finds the unburned part. Cross your fingers.

Cynderella,
Are we the only ones left at the Ale table, or is JudyB still with us? I feel bad for Ale. He us in a state if depression. Of course he still loves Montse. he was just so hurt by her lies and deception that he tries to convince himself that he doesn't care. But those who know him well, like Padre A and Macario, know that this is not the true Ale. And they have told him too.

I really hope Victor talks to Ale soon and asks him if he read the letter. Victor knows how important that letter is.

I DO NOT want to know what BM is going to do with Montses' undies and photo. She is as pervy as her uncle, and I wouldn't put anything past her.

BTW, it looks like Ale took a break from the blue shirts. I think he was wearing black? Or maybe it was just a very dark blue, either way he looked handsome as always.

Back to jury duty...hasta pronto
 

Hmmm. From the tenor of the comments so far, the Bunker of Ironic Detachment is going to get a lot of use.

Emarie:
Thank you! I try to choose well. It isn't easy with this show since there is so much beautifully written dialogue to begin with. I'm glad you don't feel short-changed.

JudyB:
I love the image of you and Fatima locking arms on the bench. The game is tight indeed. I'm happy that it helped to remember that today's hero was yesterday's sweaty obsessive. (If I'm not mistaken, that happens on the court too.)

Jarifa:
"Has the treatment [Dim] has been as of late receiving from Graciela made him more sensitive to what his sister has had to put up with?"

That's a great question. Dim has become so interesting. And to think -- in the beginning, I found it hard to look at him when he was on the screen because he was such a repulsive person. Maybe it will lead to his breaking with Josefina in an honest way, freeing her to find happiness elsewhere.

Urban:
Interesting points. I wouldn't have expected Montserrat to live in the country, remote from medical care, and with only her maiden aunt to protect her. But it's going to be interesting to see what kind of choices she makes later on.

Diana:
It's always such a pleasure to read your comments and find metaphors like this:

"The only hope is the dear padre who keeps bulldozing along, still trying to make inroads in Ale's stubborness"

That is surely one for the Book of Diana!

Daisynjay:

"So do we think we are getting a setup for Tia to find someone, or is she being setup to be a tragic character who sacrifices herself for others??"

I'm hoping for the rosier outcome (though maybe I shouldn't say it here -- my track record is abysmal.) But please please don't inflict Tomás on Carlota. She needs someone FUN (and also not easily offended because Carlota, alas, is a BLURTER)

Adolfo? I'm thinking that mooching is his profession, no?
 

Re the pictures and the undies: I immediately thought BM would try to hire some of Juvie's lackeys to do a hit on Montse. She's got access to money thanks to you know who. Probably not all of the jerks Juvie was using were outted when he was executed.

Lila
 

Dear NovelaMaven, this is the one line in your story that has me worried: “Didn't anyone ever warn you about baiting sociopaths, Padre?”


Honestly, I worry more about Whore Maria trying to harm Padre versus her trying to kill Montserrat and her child. I think that we are far along enough in Whore Maria's "darkness" that she IS capable of harming Padre. Whore Maria is circling the drain, but she is not close enough yet to harm the unborn child. I DO think she is more than capable of this, but she it not quite "there", yet.

The only thing about Whore Maria that has my curiosity is her parentage. Who in the world were her parents that such a person was produced?!

Fatima
 

About to brave the icy streets...but before I go, I love

CARLOTTA IS A BLURTER.

Oh my, that is just so fine.
 

I anticipate a scenario where JL, after dutifully being the husband of Angie's dreams, becomes a very wealthy widower. And upon learning of Montse's rejection by and estrangement from Alejandro, sets out for another round of courting Montse.

Not a spoiler - it just seems that's where this is inevitably heading. Otherwise why set JL up to be a wealthy widower?
 

Lila:
Aw shucks!

I think you're onto something with Nadia -- if she really saw Esmeralda as a "person," she would not have been so gobsmacked by her anger.

"I love her in spite of everything." yeah. That makes no sense at all and reveals zero self-awareness. You have to admit that Rulli delivers the lines so well that he forces us to scour them for meaning (though there is none).

Dear Julia R:
I love your "Deep Winter Pattern" metaphor to describe where we are in this drama. This is where I am particularly grateful to have all of you on The Patio with me. I'm not sure I could keep watching this by myself. [Mr. Maven stays at least two rooms distant when the first "¡No me toques!" of the evening resounds.] Thanks so much for your kind words.

Katy:

I love this image of yours:

"[Dim] and Fina seemed like Sleeping Beauty, suspended in the exact same argument as their wedding night"

And yes, I'd also love to see Montserrat go on the offensive for once. [But you know how misleading previews can be, so I'm not holding my breath.]

Audrey:
Thanks for puzzling over that line. I kind of thought it was wrong (too many "no's"?) -- I probably heard it wrong.

When I hear Alejandro talk about loving Montserrat, I can only assume he means "I still want to be the owner of the Princess of Aguazul."
 

Good point about medical availabilities, especially for a first-timer.

Lila, I don't think so. I'm not sure Maria knew that much about her pervy uncle's evil deeds. He wouldn't have told her much because his ultimate goal was to off Alejandro.

Besides, she looks like she would enjoy doing the evil deed herself.
 

You know what Audrey? I like it! Let them be bold and give us THAT ending: Montse with the first love of her life, she and JL raising Ale's child and a brood of their own, Ale a bitter, angry drunkard and BM doing a life sentence for attempted murder.

Lila
 

Fatima -- never ridiculous!

Who gets credit for María's make-over? We aren't told. I'd guess (along with many of you) that it was María herself who took the initiative. I can't imagine that Alejandro would care enough to suggest it. He barely looks at her.

Oh, I just saw Urban's description of Ale when he took María shopping in Aguazul:

" he looked as bored as an artist at an insurance salesmen's convention."

Nice.

I wasn't really thinking that María would target the padre, Fatima, but now that you mention it… We've seen that happen too often in novelas (maybe a contrivance to release an elderly actor from an exhausting role?). That would be ghastly.

AuntyAnn:

Glad to know we are helping you pass the time as you do your civic duty today. And I am also relieved that you are not taking our discussion too much to heart. Our boy Alejandro has a great advocate in you.

With all this talk about the letter maybe not being completely burned, I'm going to have to take another look at that scene when I get a chance (although I don't really want to see it again -- I've never been a fan of horror movies, and María's scenes are increasingly scary (listen to the music when she's prowling in the room of the dead Perv.))

JudyB, do take care!
 

I doubt you could sell that one to an audience, even with everything we're seeing now.

JL getting the inheritance is also a potential catalyst for Joaquin and Pedro to kill him. If he has no other relatives who else gets it?

Unless there is a miracle for Angelica.
 

NovelaMaven, I was thinking about the killing of the priest in "Amor Bravio". I didn't expect it, but it happened. It seems that it is getting easier and easier for the Whore Maria to think about murder. I'm almost ready to put her in the sociopath category.

Fatima
 

She is a sociopath. She has no regard for the feelings of others, including Alejandro's. She is in denial of his indifference to her.

She is also a narcissist. She believes she can grab any man by the cojones.

She must be the daughter of Graceless and Benjamin.
 

NovelaMaven, not only do you craft exceptional recaps, but you never fail to take the time to respond to all of the commenters. You really listen to what we say, and your responses are unfailingly witty and insightful. You always make us feel appreciated. That is such a gift.

Diana
 

Amen, Diana! :D

Lila
 

for those of you who liked the line" he looked as bored as an artist at an insurance salesmen's convention."

in the unedited version...Ale was all during BMs shopping spree...Ale was daydreaming...in detail...of the night he and Monse made love. Of course...the love scene was still to graphic for Univ...Oh well.


 

Amen, Diana!

Urban, good! I'm glad I was heading in the right direction re The Sociopath known as Maria!

Fatima
 

Dear Diana, Lila, Fatima -- and all the wonderful Patio People:

Thank you so much. I do think a thoughtful comment deserves a thoughtful response. I try my best to follow the example of the folks I see as my mentors around here -- people like Cap'n Sylvia, Carlos and JudyB, to name a few -- who can teach us how to BE if we are willing to pay attention. Alas, I'm not always able to come through because life has a way of intruding. I try my best though.

Besides the comments here are remarkable, many of them miniature masterworks. The brainpower and heart of this group never cease to amaze me.
 

First, Novela Maven, thank you, thank you, thank you, for this excellent retelling of a bleak episode . Your wonderful recap was a like a beam of warm sunshine in the bleak endless winter that we here in the northeast are experiencing. I feel like I am in a holding pattern just like Ale. I have noticed that he really does not have many lines anymore and mostly is just brooding and frowning, We do not even get the chance to see those overly whitened teeth anymore except when he is gritting his teeth at the padre. In AR, manuelmwas chewing up the scenery at this point in the novela...drinking, doctoring, yelling, resisting the housekeeper. Ale is just....sulking. I am reminded of the quote.."Most men lead lives of quiet desperation."

Another snow day here due to sleet this time. luckily, we did not get the heavy ice that were predicted, but south of us is a different story with ice breaking down trees which are bringing down power lines and leaving many people without power. Yikes.

What can I say about Malria ? I agree that she probably decided to do the self makeover and that it does not seem that she has managed to get Ale to do the deed. Ale is in outer space. I think the only reason he still has Malria around is to pith off Mony and everyone else and because he is too out of it to be proactive and kick her out. I guess because she was a childhood friend, he feels safe with her...HA. Ale, Malria is not a little girl anymore. She is a full grown crazy chick. Ale is so depressed that it is hard for me to even look at him. Because he is so out of it, Malria will be able to manipulate him without him noticing or caring. I am getting really tired of the "poor me" attitude, Ale. Get over it. WAKE UP! ALE.

I must say that making this novela longer and putting it in the present day has not made it better. There are too many unexplained points. Some things just do not make sense. I have no idea what will happen because the writers have kept some strorylines from AR and added others.

.I like Mony's new hairdo and wardrobe. She looks softer and younger. Before she seemed to be trying too hard to look more sophisticated and perfect. I especially like the sandals instead of those high heels. I am all about sandals and flipflops. EYE->MIND ...Ahhhhhh...sandalsflipflops>>>summertime>>>>Sunshine>>>warmth. Where am I ? I am feeling as spaced out as Ale.

Well, on Monday's snowday, I made a big pot of chicken rice soup. Today, I will be making chicken noodle soup. I am also trying to make myself clean out some closets. I really hate to clean out closets. Boo...hiss...bah...meh...winter....sigh...help.
 

Smoothly and deftly written, NM. The time jump transition was covered beautifully, if not satisfactorily for us. Here are some things that the writers should have covered:

Alejandro has been away since Montse was 2-3 months along (oh dear, here comes another math problem for Julia). She's about to give birth. They and everyone else have been out of touch for 6 months?????

If Graceless was left the house and debts 6 mos. ago, what has she been living on....Dimi was only getting a monthly allowance. I can't see him sharing that with his mumsie at this point.

ITA what are Tia and Montse still doing in the house, vulnerable to Gracie's scorn and hurtful tirades, not to mention that they and Rosario eat and take up room in the Graceless mansion....all three are penniless. Who bought Montse her maternity wardrobe and Tia all the wool and patterns for knitting baby sweaters? (The crib could have been M & D's when they were born, so it doesn't count.) You'd think Graceless would encourage them to head for the hacienda.

ITA we should have had some visual scenes where Victor and Macario stayed in touch, Padre and Montse worked on the community projects, JL and Angie on their honeymoon (tn directors love to do this, why not this one), and not just verbal references.

ITA it's about time we learn what Pedro's *real* career is. If they stop to tell us that Tia made some tea with honey in it for Montse, why can't we learn a little more about Pedro's "negocios." What are they saving that big revelation for, is it cattle rustling, growing hemp? Stop wasting our brains, writers! (BTW did he lose the governorship or is he still in the running. You'd think that the Mexican press would have investigated his background thoroughly.)

ITA, EZB is going to be a dangerous nuisance.

 

Ah, Susanlynn, you're here! As I watch Pasion and read Caray, I thought of you--OT, of course.

I just saw a book for sale, you and Cap'n Sylvia might enjoy it...(tongue in cheek)

The Pirate Handbook: A Rogue's Guide to Pillage, Plunder, Chaos & Conquest by Pat Croce

"Avast, ye! For anyone who has dreamed of hitting the high seas, manning a crew, brandishing a cutlass, or burying treasure, here's The Pirate Handbook.

Part how-to, part illustrated history, this detailed manual gives insight into every aspect of the pirating life: learn how to make a seaworthy raft, navigate by the stars, brew up a batch of grog, and much more.

Featuring a removable replica of an actual pirate map, detailed illustrations, real recipes from the Golden Age of Piracy, plus the lore of the real-life pirates who roamed the waters of the Caribbean and beyond, this is the ultimate guide for salty dogs wherever they rove the seas."

I did not make this up, it came from the publisher's blurb.

What could be better in this kind of weather!
 

Basurto is unbalanced and a really cold fish. In some ways he might be worse than Pedro himself. Maybe they will kill each other at the end.
 

I guess I can believe that the ladies are squeaking by financially at Bleak House. The Mendozas do still have their hacienda, and although they have financial problems, they never had NO income. Just not enough income to support the hifalutin' wasteful lifestyles of Graceless and Dim. So if Dim has been supported by Josefina, and Graceless hasn't had anyone to bribe and has cut back on tablecloth purchases, they could probably cope for awhile anyway. Maybe Montse sold a piece of jewelry or two to buy baby stuff and maternity clothes. Or got some of those things as gifts from Nadia and Fina.

I do hope she's been taking an interest in her hacienda, though. She needs a place of her own to get away from her mother.
 

Anita...I guess I should go back and check out some of those comments on the Pasion recaps. I think that I maybe got a little out of control. I will have to check the dates and figure out what was going on in real life at the time. I remember going to the shore that summer and finding a shop that had a pirate theme. I cannot remember the slogans on the tee shirts, but there were some good ones. There is a new series called "Black Sails" about pirates on one of the cable channels, but I just cannot get into it. Maybe I am over my pirate phase, or maybe it is because it is not a telenovela and the actors cannot compete with Ferdnando Colunga.....susanlynn, waiting for the neighbor to plow our driveway...AGAIN...$$$$
 

NovelaMaven - Thanks. Especially appreciate the setup of where everybody is located cause I get lost. My favorite: "Esmeralda strides along the malecón, unaware that the Municipal President has just handed her down to the Police Chief like a sack of old clothes."

So Ale has kept Maria in his bed all this time and not boinked her. A sane man, once he realized that little Ale didn't want to come out to play, would've moved Maria to another bedroom. But Ale keeps her there. This is too strange to contemplate.

My fave scenes: JL and Angie christening their bedroom and Dim socking it to Graciela. A tad late, but Dim's cutting the cord.
 

Julia...You are good with the math and the money. I hope, hope, hope that Mony sold that gold bracelet that Gracie gave Uncle Pervie to keep him quiet. I was surprised when he gave it to Mony. Gold is still high, so she probably could get at least a couple hundred dollars for it.

I also got a kick out of your theory about Gracie cutting the tablecloth budget. she may have to improvise with some placemats. I wonder how creative Gracie is...other than her obvious knack for creatively intimidating others with that gravely voice , scary looks, and pokey, pushy fingers.

Well, The chicken noodle soup is simmering on the stove, but I am still avoiding those closets. I do not know if there are enough snow days to get me to tackle chores I hate.
 

Niecie...Do you think that Malria is satisfied with just spooning with Ale....and getting a new wardrobe ? Perhaps. , she has lowered her expectations. Maybe Malria is pragmatic and is thinking, "Well, no Boinking! but I have these great shoes and can snack anytime and anywhere that I want."
 

Maybe Ale and Maria have had separate hotel rooms all this time, but now that they're back, he wants to keep up the appearances that will pith Montse off.
 

Susanlynn, I'm surprised Malria hasn't done a Single White Female thing, dying her hair blonde in hopes he'll roll on top of her in his sleep thinking she's Montse.
 

Novela: Another stellar recap.

UA: I was thinking along those same lines when Maria found the undies and Montsy's photo in Juviperv's drawer. Being Maria, she will probably try to use them as further evidence against Montsy. Who knows? Maybe she'll realize what a jerk her uncle was.

And, so much for Esme's free spirit. Refugio should resign from the Navy and get them both out of town before she falls victim to Basurto who is obsessed with her.

I'm hoping that some shards of the burned letter remained in the stove and that Dominga finds them. Unfortunately, in Telenovela Land the bad guys get away with far too much for far too long.


 

Dear Novela Maven:

Thank you for a superbly written recap. It was, in fact, sensational. In this recap, my friend, you demonstrated your mastery of summary, translation, language and subtle calisthenic snark.

This summary line:

'Hacienda Almonte, home of the philanthropic misanthrope',

Has a wonderful sound and delightful nuances of meaning.

I also loved your commentary on Maria's wardrobe:

'(It still needs work though -- she hasn't quite learned to walk steadily in her towering dominatrix ankle boots.'

It was very kind of you to fill us in on Angie, JL and the initiation of their new house.

'They were very thorough.'

Thank you, Novela Maven for sharing your writing with us here on Caray Caray. It is a true pleasure to read anything you have written, I am sure, but I think we get the best of you here on our beloved, quirky blog.

With appreciation,

Elna June

 

Pasofino, that is so true.

Maria knows her uncle was evil; he killed her father. She slapped him hard enough to almost knock him to the floor and I don't think that was for show. If she ever took any time to think about this afterward she would have come to this conclusion: He would just as easily killed her if he had any way of benefitting from it. She is as well rid of him as anyone else in the story.

When is anyone going to tell Alejandro that JL married Angelica and he doesn't need to worry about him going after Monserrat?
 

Fatima:

At his point in the story (and perhaps for the next many episodes) I am afraid the 'sensitives' amongst us—and thank heavens for your blessed presence—will want to practice a some technique of meditation or self-reflection that allows you to use the difficult material in the story for personal growth.

No, I am not kidding. Email me off line @sdougherty3e@gmail.com if you would like a couple of ideas.

It feels like we still haven't hit rock bottom with Alejandro and things might get worse before they get better. As Novela Maven said:

"It is getting dark in here."

EJ



 

Buenas tardes, Susanlynn:

I always enjoy the conversational feel of your comments -- you always bring your own warmth and light to the table.

Alejandro hasn't had much screen time lately, period. I suppose the spotlight will be turning in his direction now so let's hope he has something worthwhile to tell us.

In the meantime, I love where your own mind's eye is taking you. Mind if I come along?

Anita:

You have indeed uncovered some of the gaping plotholes that a person could fall into around here. Personally, I don't always need a visual reference -- a conversational reference, a letter (unburned), or a phone call can work well to establish some of this background info.

I imagine that when shooting begins on a project like this, the early scenes have been carefully written and the trajectory of the story has been sketched out. But many of the details emerge on the hoof. So maybe the writers couldn't tell us what Pedro's business was because they hadn't decided yet. (Just a thought.)

Julia:
Not only does the Mendoza family still have the income from the hacienda (assuming it is turning a small profit these days), they also have an admiral's pension (not huge but not likely to be chump change either.)

Niecie:
I guess I set up the recap that way because I felt a need to get it all straight for myself. I'm glad if it helped a little.

We still don't know what María and Alejandro do when they are alone -- we just know what María wants other people to think. I suppose we'll be invited into their bedroom soon enough, whether we like it or not.

Susanlynn, your comment on this subject would be a great caption: "Well, no Boinking! but I have these great shoes and can snack anytime and anywhere that I want."
Who knows, maybe that's all she ever wanted -- permission to eat in the living room.

Pasofino, you expressed exactly what I was thinking when María found Juventino's Montse artefacts: "Who knows? Maybe she'll realize what a jerk her uncle was."
I mean that was a pretty creepy finding.
 

Dear Elna June:

"subtle calisthenic snark"

Allow me to roll that around on my tongue for a moment. Ah. What a lovely mouth feel.

I am, as always, delighted to get your stamp of approval. But I wonder if I might ask a favor of you -- would you mind reading the title aloud?

Gracias, amiga.
 

As for EZ Basurto, I believe if you look very carefully, you will see his fecha de caducidad (expiration date) stamped on his forehead.

Hey, can somebody please turn on a light in here?
 

Fatima...in addition to Elna June and NovelaMaven's good advice for making it through these dark places, I'm going to throw a little Teilhard de Chardin into the pot.

He believed that organisms (and humans) evolve in the direction of consciousness, love, and higher forms of spiritual energy. A principle of humanization that enables us to achieve our highest spiritual potential. In this process we are formed not only by our conscious choices but also, by what we undergo involuntarily.

He called this the principle of passive diminishment. It includes all the bits of ill fortune in our lives...the tragic interferences, etc.....

Both joy and suffering unleash spiritual energies that connect us to the divine center of reality.

So just think of our beloved, but misguided, characters, as currently suffering "passive diminishment" but on their way to greater spiritual maturity. And as I've said before, given the Catholic scaffolding of these romantic tales, that's as good away to ride through the rough patches as any.

(I'm quoting, and misquoting perhaps, liberally from The Saints' Guide to Happiness)
 

forgot to add the author, Robert Ellsberg
 

Thanks Novela for the awesome recap. Also, for giving us the Spanish and English versions of the letter.

I agree about the letter. No one bothered to ask Vic if he delivered it?

And no one bothered to clean out Juvie’s room?

JudyB: my sister and I are both freaks about our hair. We’d never miss a cut. Want to join our club? I’m the only one she can “talk” to about it (I’m in CA, she’s in IN—lots of e-mails). Her husband isn’t into it. Strange man.

UA: I figured Mons was staying in town until the baby was born. Then I want her to go to the hacienda. She really needs to continue her growth.

I liked Mons hair. I goes along with her new calmness. I do agree it looks a tad little-girlish, but I don’t mind that—she doesn’t seem to be acting like a little girl.

Maybe it Ale’s better buried deep down self that’s coming through when he says he still loves Mons.

Maria probably will plant those items in the capitaz’ cottage. Frankly, I don’t care. It’s not as if it can make that much difference now.

Fatima: “Maria IS a Black Hole” ☺

UA: I agree. The only explanation for Maria would be Ben and Gracie as birth parents and pervy Juvie as her “uncle”.

Susanlynn: I think another reason Ale keeps Maria around is out of guilt. I think he realized pretty quickly he’d made a mistake and now feel like he has to live with it.

Pasofino: “Unfortunately, in Telenovela Land the bad guys get away with far too much for far too long.”—which is why I miss Amor Bravio.

Poor Fatima. I feel for you, girl. I’m also empathic—though not nearly as much as you are.

I’m looking forward to the day when Ale realizes he screwed up big time. THAT episode I’ll watch real time.

Freaky. Was reading the comments and had a déjà vu moment.

Nanette
 

Wow..just wow...I read and reread your comment...."....passive diminish meant...all the bits of ill fortune....what we undergo involuntarily"

" That which does not kill us makes us strong " ?????

Or as my beloved grandmother used to say "God never gives us more than we can bear." ??????

I always love the buts and pieces of wisdom you share with us Miss Judyb.

Now, to stir the soup.
 

buts ????....make that bits. Ipad and I are having problems.
 

Actually, I wouldn't be stunned to learn that Ale and Maria have been tangoing on and off, but her pissed off attitude is probably knowing full well there isn't an ounce of feeling on his part involved in any relations they are having. Doesn't love her, never will and she knows it without having to have heard it confirmed from his own mouth to the Padre. And of course, this makes her more dangerous.

Now, if that is the case, he is further down the slime scale because he is acting out the very same type behavior he accused his wife of doing. And he just ASSUMED she was having it on with JL...maybe learning there was nothing happening and the baby is his will serve as the sledgehammer up against his head he deserves then. May the headache last for a good number of episodes.

Daisynjay
 

I'm not sure that Juventino had the tiniest clue about Maria's parentage. If she was abandoned and found by Gaspar, Juventino wasn't necessarily with him because he would have been too busy doing evil for Benjamin.

The only person who might know such a thing about Maria is the padre.

However, I am the last person to believe that personality is genetic and not subject to influence from one's environment or efforts at self-improvement. We would have killed each other off as a species long ago if that were the case.
 

Susanlynn--Here is your very pity comment:

…pirates seemed to be a popular theme in the gift shops and there were black t-shirts for sale with piraty sayings on them. However, I could not talk Hub into buying the one that read ''PIRATE...Prepare to be boarded.''

Tee Hee
 

Daisynjay, I don't know if Alejandro is well-read on Roman history, but it was said of Julia Augusta, the daughter of Emperor Augustus, that she cleverly "never took on a passenger unless the hold was full", meaning that she didn't cheat on her husband (Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa) unless she already knew she was pregnant.

Monserrat would have better options, of course. That is the problem with moving this story to the present: Even if and when the DNA results identify Alejandro as the father that doesn't exclude the possibility of Monse fooling around with someone else. That's a possibility for the next phase of this story.
 

Come to think of it, one and all, we've only had one hospital scene (Lauro) and look what happened to him.

Lila, banish the thought of BM taking aim and ...can't finish the sentence.

We only want to see Montse in the hospital delivering a sano y fuerte bebe.
 

Of course but this being a TN what are the odds that the baby will not be born in a hospital despite their efforts?
 

Thanks NovelaMaven. Your recaps always delight and amaze me and this is a perfect example of your wonderful spellbinding style, wit and good humor. Today you've got me walking on air by including me in the stellar company of Judy and Sylvia... as one of your mentors no less... I'm giddy.

Fatima, I'm not going to attempt a defense of María's current status. I'm disappointed in her right now and am not even impressed by her new look. I much preferred the innocent barefoot peasant girl we met when this all began. While I'm holding out for redemption, I'm more and more fearful that Susanlynn may have nailed it with:

"Malria is not a little girl anymore. She is a full grown crazy chick."

I never give up hope, however. In Gancho my mean girl project, Coni, put out a hit on the protagonista, Monita (which fortunately failed) and then later saved her life. Even so, I see dark days ahead for María. I'm more worried about the gun than I am the photo and panties.

Lot's of careless mistakes on the part of the good guys as you all have pretty much pointed out. My biggest disappointment right now is Rosario... you are the mother for goodness sake... ACT LIKE IT!

Carlos
 

Hear! Hear! Daisnjay. That is entirely possible which really makes Ale tainted. Even if he declared to Montse after they get back together that there was no boinkage, if I were Montse I'd definitely have to get a new bedroom set if not remodel the whole house to get Maria's (emotional and literal) smell out of the place.

Lila
 

Judy, thanks for this:

"So just think of our beloved, but misguided, characters, as currently suffering "passive diminishment" but on their way to greater spiritual maturity."

I'm sure that you are including María in that sentiment so come on over to Mesa María (I'll bet we can find you an empty seat) and join me in a carrot juice cocktail... organic, Vegan, and gluten-free.

Carlos
 

The frustrating thing, for Montserrat and Alejandroidrage and us, is that there is absolutely no way to prove whether she cheated on him. The baby being his does not prove it. It is a matter of trust, and he will only believe the worst possibility.
 

Carlos...Thanks for the shout out. I am always pleased when you and I are on the same page.

Lila...good point. I would at least need a new mattress and box spring....Malria cooties...and bad juju. Sorry, Carlos. that was mean. ....but true.
 

Anita...thanks for the memories. That was a fun shop, but Sylvia would have appreciated it so much more than hub did. Ah yes, I remember that teeshirt now. ..."pirate...prepare to be boarded."

This summer the popular teeshirt stated "suns out, gun's out". He would not buy that one either.
 

Yummmm...carrot juice cocktail. Sounds awesome, Carlos. Actually I've got a lingering cold right now so I could use a fierce dose of organic veggies.

Yes, I'm sure the saints and Teilhard would agree that Maria is included in the sprint for "spiritual maturity". "Le falta Jesus" at the moment, but if she gets on board, she's redeemable. (Of course that's what bothers us spiritual folk, we want carte blanche for redemption for ourselves, but don't always want to grant it to those we loathe.)

Nanette..yep, I'm a certifiable hair freak. It gets cut every four weeks, come hell or high water. I go to a big place and there were all of two clients (count 'em, two!!!) there at noon when I went. Also, only saw 3 or 4 cars during the 15 minute drive. But here I am, trimmed and blown-dry, dealing with the "passive diminishment" of post-nasal drip and sciatic pain from too much heavy lifting....but preparing for a bracing carrot juice cocktail and some good stories from Carlos. And then SPIRITUAL MATURITY. Or just getting up tomorrow and teaching class again.
 

I'm not religious at all but it really burns my butt when Graceless has the hubris to say "le falta Jesus" to anyone. She is such a hypocrite and I'm sure there will be a special place in hell for her when Karmageddon strikes.
 

Nanette, I like Montserrat's hair too. It's okay for her to look young -- the character IS young, as is the actress.

"I’m looking forward to the day when Ale realizes he screwed up big time. THAT episode I’ll watch real time."

Hah! Aren't we all? Uni should promote that one heavily -- they'd make a killing in the ratings that night!

Daisynjay: Point well taken about Ale's progress down the Slime Scale if…shuddder shudder

Urban: I've read a little Roman history but somehow missed that "fun fact" about Julia Augusta. The good news is that Alejandro probably missed it too.

Anita, Urban has a point about the baby. Perhaps the honors will fall to Rosario who, as you recall, has spent most of her adult life in prison and has no real skills (except, perhaps, for an uncanny knack for birthin' babies?)

My dear Carlos:

I am enormously flattered that you read not just the recap, but also the comments. You are, as always, much too kind. That you are in stellar company was never in doubt! (I really do think of you three kind, witty and immensely intelligent people as mentors.)

Oh and I hear that there's plenty of room to stretch out and get comfortable at Mesa María. Nor has that changed since they started serving carrot juice cocktails -- or that's the rumor going around The Bunker of Ironic Detachment these days.

Oy vey María.
 

Cool title, NovelaMaven. Unfortunately I hear the beautiful hymn "Ave Maria" when I read it and BM doesn't deserve that!

;D Lila
 

Yes, Lila! Exactly!

The title is a pun on Ave María -- for this María, you have to sing the Oy Vey María!

I'm so relieved. I'm been waiting all day for someone to get it.
:D
 

LOL! OK - NOW I get the title!

I also like Montse's new "luke". She looks so comfortable and relaxed. I would cringe while she walked around in narrow dresses and super high heels - that didn't look comfortable at all. More of a little princesa barbie-doll look - which I guess she was when this all started.
 

Judyb....I am glad that you are back home out of the elements and with a new trim. Now, you can settle in for the next installment of crazy novela happenings. I am all set with a nice cuppa mint tea, but I also have plans for a possible glass of red wine .
 

Oh well, DUHHHHHHH. Can I blame my lingering cold for not "getting it" either? Anyway, wonderful now that I do. Plus, I keep hearing David Bisbal, in my head, singing "Ave Maria" (the other one, a swinging romantic ballad). A fun song, and perhaps not one we want to share with our nasty, at-the-moment-unredeemed Maria.
 

Mint tea sounds good, Susanlynn. I might take mine with a bit of Aleve for this durned nagging back pain.
 

Wow! What great comments today.

When I got in my car to go to meetings this afternoon, the song on the Latin Hits radio station that came on was Cuando me Enamoro. It brought back great memories of the tn and listening to that song that summer. Then when I got back in my car to return home this evening, the first song to play was a bachata version of El Perdedor from our current tn. Another great tn theme song from Enrique Iglesias.
 

Yaaaay! I got it! NovelaMaven!! That title is soo darned clever!!! Love it!

Lila
 

My Dear Maven:

It is usually Madelaine who infects the group with ear-worms. This time, however, it was you, you , you.

I read aloud your clever title for today's recap and 'got' it as I was on my way to my youngest daughter's 33rd birthday dinner at Pasion Restaurant in San Francisco. It is a sort of Latin-fusion place, where a fair amount of Spanish is spoken and most of the waiters and the staff are South Americans.

I gave the "Oy ve Maria,' ear-worm first to my yerno, Max, who did his Peace Corps service in Nicaragua. He always says that his Spanish is better than his Yiddish, but when I infected him with the "Oy ve Maria' earworm he laughed out loud.

When our waiter Armando asked what Max thought was so funny about duck confit empanadas, my son-in-law passed on the earworm. He told our waiter that he had actually thought of that line while sitting through innumerable Masses in his Peace Corps days.

The waiter got a good giggle and the rest of us sang Happy Birthday to Marinda to the tune of Ave Maria.

Max then called his Uncle in Philly and his Mom in Chicago and passed the virus on to them. I could hear their laughter on his iPhone.

Tomorrow Max and my older daughter are flying to Colorado for a ski week. I have no doubt he will give the ear worm to to others.

Maven, what have you done? In the far future, when we are long gone and future etymological epimediologists are looking for Patient Zero for the virulent 'Oy Ve Maria'earworm—Will evidence point right here to Caray Caray?

EJ