Caray, Caray!

Good work, NovelaMaven.

Maria has some bloody nerve for calling any other woman a slut when she is one herself. Her obsession is so sick I think she will have to die before anyone is free of it.

Adolfo needs to learn the proper handling of firearms. Holding the gun on its side may look badass to some, but it spoils the aim.

Pedro was really over the top with his insults. Points to Adolfo for keeping his cool during that.
 

NovelaMaven, what an entertaining recap! I loved your titles for each section. Thanks.

So many people that just won't LISTEN:

Didn't Monica hear what Dimitri told her about his own mother? No respect for Dimitri? Is she going to turn into a Mrs, Fixit? Run, Dimitri, run!

Carlota insisted she knew best what Montse should do and went on and on trying to make things better with JL when Montse made it clear she had made up her mind. Guess we know why Carlota had been out of everyone's loop. Montse should not had told her anything.

The worst decision of the episode was telling Laurito that he could tell Victoria his father was alive and that he had met him. Victoria could so easily let that slip at Pedro's house.

Jarifa


 

NovelaMaven!!!! Wonderful, wonderful recap!!!

I liked this: "Meanwhile, Graciela's counterpart, Pedro Medina, is delivering his own gleeful apologia for sadism and misogyny as he presides over the dinner table." What a way with words you have! Graciela and Pedro are like a human palindrome.

Urban, I posted very late this evening on your stupendous recap from yesterday! The screen shots and additional photos were perfect in every way! I'd have to go back and find it, but I loved it when you called Maria a soulless person for that is truly what she is.

I used to feel sorry for Carlota, but now, not so much. She is going to learn from the school of hard knocks.

I know I can't watch this, so I thank you so much dear NovelaMaven!! There are just one too many sicko characters (that continue to remind me of real life encounters)in this TN.

Fatima
 

My word, Urban. The things you know! It never occurred to me to criticize Adolfo for his suboptimal firearms technique. Wow.

Pedro was especially repulsive tonight, but not especially interesting. In fact, I am finding him the least interesting character in the show, certainly the least nuanced. If he has ever seemed sympathetic or has related to anyone else as a human being, I can't remember it. Can you?

Jarifa, I'm so glad you like the recap. I agree that Mónica hasn't been too good at listening. Beyond what Dim told her about his mother, she also had a chance to see Graciela in action when she insulted Josefina so cruelly in Mónica's presence in an earlier episode. [Of course it's hard to say. Sometimes minor characters get sloppier writing than the principals.]

And yes, those secrets are heavy burdens for the children to carry.

Fatima,
It's fun to see you here this evening.

"Graciela and Pedro are like a human palindrome."

What a great image!

I still kind of feel for Carlota. I hope she comes out of this thing in one piece and ends up with the equally flawed Admiral Robledo.
 

NovelaMaven:

Thanks so very much for this superb recap and the Spanish phrases. You rock!

I am a fan of JL, sorry, but I did NOT like what he did to Monse, and hurrah for her kicking him where it hurt. She doesn't deserve that, no matter what she has done. I am not liking what the writers are doing to JL. I want him to wake up out of this craziness and start to take Peddy down. Out of all these characters, I have to say that JL has the wherewithal to do just that.

It's too late for the truth to be told to JL now. That is water under the bridge. Once Monse takes that money and does a runner with Rosario and Lolo, JL will suspect that Ale may be awake.

I still fear for those two children. I don't like the keeping secrets and I still think one of them will accidently spill to the wrong person.

BM will never change. I wonder how she thinks she can convince Ale to take her up on her offer. I salute the lone man at the table and raise my glass to him.

I too want Tia Carly to have a happy ending, Dios knows she deserves it. I like her gumption and she may talk a lot, but I still like her.

Thanks again NovelaMaven for this fantastic recap : )
 

Kids are fantastic secret keepers. People who had to keep secrets as children know that children can keep secrets. If you've never had to keep a secret, you understand it.
 

We haven't heard anything about Monica's background, but I'll bet she had good parents. Some people like that have no concept of toxic parents like Graciela. They can't conceive of such things. Obviously she doesn't watch telenovelas or go much to the theatre.

Graciela's insults to her taste should have been enough after she witnessed the insults to Josefina. Dimitrio should tell her more about this stuff, especially about what Gracie's done to Monserrat.

I was afraid that someone would overhear the kids' conversation during the school lunch break, but I guess the writers will allow another episode or two for that. Victoria is at greater risk in her prison, though.

She is keeping the secret from most about how Pedro treats her and her mother. Kids can keep secrets like that very well if they have a sense of the danger they're in. Since she was kidnapped to this, she does. Lauro, however, doesn't have this.

I didn't elaborate on Pedro's truly disgusting behavior last night, but I think he has managed to shock even Adolfo. Doesn't he know that stupid women are more likely to have stupid children? Of course, since he couldn't have his own, why would he bother to learn about that?

Here's hoping Alejandro retains his resolve. He should tell Monserrat about this NOW and not allow enough time for a distorted version of this to happen.

He needs a seriously good and uncorruptable lawyer yesterday.

 

Great recap, NovelaMaven, filled as usual with witticisms. Making fun work of a discouraging story.
Loved:
Maria with her "her dime store blonde wig, her tawdry outfit, and her delusions of grandeur."

And this is hysterical, "Rosario cautions her about arousing José Luis's suspicions. (Which is like pointing out the posted warnings at the zoo to the fool who has just climbed into the grizzly bear enclosure and is trying to take a selfie with the baby bear)."

All of these people keeping so many secrets, how do you keep them straight? OK, this is JL, we can admit we knew Ale died after a coma, and this is Pedro, he knows Nadia is alive, thinks Ale is dead but doesn't know Victor is alive. Hi Carlotta, Victor is alive and so is Ale.

Children keeping a secret well? Really? Maybe true in survival situations, but at our house before birthdays? Not so much.
Now Victoria has to pretend Pedro is dad and she loves him, pretend she doesn't know Victor is in town and she's seen him, pretend Ale still in a coma. it goes on and on. Carrying secrets is a terrible burden.
And if Laurito now calls JL "Padrino" won't that make JL suspicious?
Graciela does growl. Love the comparison to Pedro, the most undesired dinner host/guest. I don't get Monica not seeing how Gracie slithers and hisses.

Isn't "estamos" just , "we are"?


 

Hello I'm just new here...it's so nice that we have a blog to translate our favorite novela...thanks girls...I'm so addicted with this...I was just keep translating in google the capitulos and watch the different episodes even if I don't understand it...shrugggs...but anyways do you know videos that has been translated to english...thanks a lot :)
 

Welcome! How did you find us?

It doesn't take long before you'll get it. My mother learned English from soap operas ages ago and I'm now learning Italian from going to the opera.

Is this your first novela?
 

NovelaMaven, while last night's events were once again positively painful, your thoughtful, superb recap soothed the sting with a healing blend of humor, wit and wisdom. Wonderful.

"He leaves her alone with her dime store blonde wig, her tawdry outfit, and her delusions of grandeur","Dimitrio raises a quizzical unibrow", and "While Pedro is waxing megalomaniacal" were just a few of my favorites.

I delight in the recaps, particularly when they include conversation translations and new vocabulary (Spanish or English). "practiced jeremiad" was new to me and am so happy to have learned something new today! These are a real treat and greatly appreciated. I'd like to thank you and all the recappers (past and present) for including these. Although I do not want to leave anyone out, but I will always remember and be thankful for our Judy's wonderful vocabulary lists and dichos. Hope our amiga is back with us soon.

Fatima, "Graciela and Pedro are like a human palindrome". Yes, what an amazing comment!

Madelaine, I'm not sure what to say at this point. JL's character has been distorted to the point of being simply unrecognizable. How dare he manhandle Monse! I was disgusted. I am fervently hoping he has a revelation/change of heart and will do something to redeem himself, even if resulting in his death. I also agree that he appears to be the only one who may have the gaul and intelligence to silence Pedro. Forever.

Dinner at Monica's may have been uncomfortable but dinner at Pedro's was hellish. Fina looked as though she was in agony and Nadia looked stunned and helpless. Pedro has truly gone mad.

I still like Carlota although I do wish she would process things more before she speaks and acts. She does not need to necessarily share every tidbit and morsel of conversation. Sigh.

Would be surprised if Sandho leaves although he may think twice about crossing Adolfo.

There is a bond between Adolfo and Maria. A rather sad, pathetic one but it does exist. Two lost, tormented souls, tinged with desire for who they will never have and doused with evil from which they may not recover.

NovelaMaven, thank you for brightening my day. It's always a pleasure to read and savor your recaps.

Diana
 

Okay so we have Gracie as the Guest from Hell and Pedro as the host from Hell..Could they join Hells Kitchen? They would make a perfect couple with the Chef from Hell,Gordon Ramsay!
 

Gracielas special sense of finding frozen food would be a good asset for Gordon since he is so allergic to it!
 

NovelaMaven- Spectacular recap, as always!

The two dinners were so unbelievably uncomfortable, but I'd have to say that Pedro beat Gracie this time.

Doesn't it seem like on the list of priorities, freeing Vicky and Nadia should be FIRST, ahead of Monse and Ale playing happy families, and Ale clearing his name?

Emarie- Saying "estamos?" is the shortened colloquial way of saying "agreed?" Full sentences: "Are we in agreement/Estamos de acuerdo?"
 

NovelaMaven, thank you. Your snappy, witty recaps are always such a delicious treat to read with my morning coffee.

Those poor kids. As to adults telling kids to keep secrets, I know a six-year-old who was told by her father during a custody weekend not to tell her mother that he planned to move and to cover if the three-year-old told. Guess what...As soon as Mommy picked them up, the three-year-old shared this news...and the six-year-old did not cover. I hate seeing children involved in these adult machinations...pitiful and wrong.

Monica should believe Dim and respect his feelings. She has no idea just how awful Gracie is. Monica has only seen the top of that dreadful iceberg.

Carlotta likes to give advice , but I am wondering what she will do when she finally discovers who her beloved husband really is. Some folks are eager to give advice to others but are often not their own best advisors. It will not be pretty when the truth is revealed.

Well...I am off . later, Gators.
 

And i just imagine Peddy at Hells Kitchen ,serving as a waiter delivering food to some old guy with a pipe in his mouth and saying" Here is your soup,enjoy it maldito vegetal!(Peddy then blows the pipe on the soup and leaves with an evil smirk) " xD

And Fabiola is also in charge on delivering wine to the customers but because of her alchololism she always drinks all the bottles ,in the end delivering empty bottles to the customers.

Gracie as the guest from Hell , allergic to frozen food complains to the chefs and always delivers them a "Te Falta Jesus" each time she spots anything in food that she doesnt like : D
 

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NovelaMaven, I forgot to mention how well you described that lone figure at that table across the patio. He is still there . . .

Jarifa
 

[A man sits alone at a table on the otherwise crowded Patio of Lowered Expectations and takes a thoughtful pull on his bourbon. ¡Ánimo, María! he whispers under his breath.]

Exactly, Jarifa. I loved that shout out to our beloved Carlos. Along with these delicious descriptions...

"does he imagine it is Alejandro's life that shatters at his feet? Or his own?

practiced jeremiad

Carlota fans herself so furiously we almost expect her to lift off like a helicopter [favorite quote...far and away!]

And favorite sobriquet: Smirk Girl

Perfect. We have a bar in town called Surly Girl. But I like Smirk Girl even better.

Thanks NovelaMaven. Loved this recap and look forward to the episode. Never been a José Luis fan but am beginning to feel a bit sorry for him. He's made serious and selfish mistakes but so have we all. However, he's now being treated as an out and out scoundrel and villain...I guess to prepare us to not feel sorry when he dies (not a spoiler, but certainly an educated guess.)
 

Judy B:

So glad you are back, and hoping you are feeling much better : )
 

Tired, but better MADS. Also trying to learn how to use a new cellphone which is giving this old brain fits!
 

First let me say, being I couldn't jump in late yesterday---WELCOME BACK JUDY!!! Have been thinking about you and looking for you every day. Made my day to see you back with us again and hope you are well and back to your ornery self.

NM, wonderful recap on this "interesting" episode. So many great lines already noted. Last night just begged for snarky brilliance and we got it in spades!

I just hope Monica, if she wants things to work out with Dim, finally got the message from Dim. I don't know why she got so sucked in by Gracie--you would think someone who needs to be intuitive and investigate issues would have been better in having the red flags flying with Gracie. If she keeps trying to put those two together though, I think that spells her doom.

What more is there to say about Pedro's behavior that everyone hasn't added. The man is deranged and at this point, why someone just doesn't take him out amazes me. He has to have an enemy list a mile long, not just our little group. I hate having Fina sucked into this whole mess.

So all the intrigues with the grownups being pissy and manipulative and wanting to do each other in...and we have to watch those two adorable kids talk about how they have to keep these secrets and watch all this play out just made me want to line up every single parent, adult and person in this thing and slap them silly. (Well, more than that but I'm trying to reign in my more violent desires.)The more those two kids get pulled into this as pawns, the more I'm even having a hard time putting up with these plots. So help me, one of these kids is threatened or hurt or kidnapped....breathing, breathing

Daisynjay
 

I should add on the kids---beyond what Pedro is already doing to Victoria. have someone else take her from her mother, etc. Ok, rant done. Back to work.

Daisynjay
 

Diana, you said: "There is a bond between Adolfo and Maria. A rather sad, pathetic one but it does exist. Two lost, tormented souls, tinged with desire for who they will never have and doused with evil from which they may not recover." Very well said! Especially the "doused with evil". Poetry, my dear, sheer poetry!!

To be clear, I certainly like Carlota. I simply no longer feel sorry for her. I cannot fault her for wanting to have a warm and loving relationship with EZ Basura, but her loose lips and naivete are over the top sometimes. If she is going to grow as a person, then she will have to learn her lessons from the school of hard knocks. Otherwise, she will remain oblivious to everything around her.

I find it ironic that little Victoria can keep such burdensome secrets, but Carlota can't seem to do this even if she tried.

Also agree with Urban that the two children are in totally different situations when it comes to keeping these secrets. Victoria and Nadia are trying to survive. Laurito has faced no danger in his young life that would have him understand the importance of these secrets.

I think Montserrat has done two foolish things so far re her deteriorating relationship with JL: a) she told him that SHE makes the decisions re HER son (and didn't tell him to his face, but with her back turned to him) and b) told Laurito to call JL "padrino". Point "b" was pretty stupid, if you ask me.

I just don't like seeing this manipulation of the children.

Fatima
 

NovelaMaven,

"[A man sits alone at a table on the otherwise crowded Patio of Lowered Expectations and takes a thoughtful pull on his bourbon. ¡Ánimo, María! he whispers under his breath.]"

When I read this I thought, now there's a kindred soul, perhaps I'll invite him over to share a drink and commiserate a bit and then it dawned on me... Hey wait just a cotton pickin' minute...

Well, I must say I'm flattered to be mentioned in this exquisite recap. Your cleverness always inspires awe.

Diana,

You mentioned a need for a bit of levity in this... María's antics should be keeping you in stitches. She's a Latina Lucy disguised in a blond wig.

"Alejandro reminds María that she's the one who has slept with every man in Aguazul. Except with him, she says with an insinuating smile."

How can this not evoke a giggle or two?

And for added humor you have Pedro's bizarre display of bad manners and poor taste which I thought was both terrifying and hilarious.

What an odd conversation between Montse and JL in front of Carlotta. Did I dream that she demanded a divorce and later resisted his crude rapey advances? And he's wondering why she wants to sell the house? And she goes along with this conversation? Yikes!

Madelaine and Diana,

I nominate María as another candidate with he moxy to take out Pedro. I don't think she'd waiver a second in pulling the trigger. I think he's probably near the top of her list.

Carlos
 

Good morning all,

I see from the flurry of comments this morning that, just like the characters in the story, we can't quite resist the gravitational pull of Planet Aguazul. Here we are, variously hooting, gnashing teeth, shaking fists and shaking heads. And it seems we still have a summer's worth to go. Deep breath everyone. Exhale slowly. Re-laaaaaaaax.

Thank you, everyone, for your kind words.

Hi Mads,

I think you're right about José Luis being the best person to take down Pedro Medina. Let's assume that Pedro has his own militia with him at all times. (He is both a governor and a back-time narco these days.) While anyone could, theoretically, shoot him, that person would immediately be killed by his men. (In the end, it may happen that way.)

But it seems that what they need is a military strategy involving cunning and daring. Who better than JL for the job? You know, JL before he turned into Mad Dog Álvarez...

Emarie,

The lies and half-truths and secrets ARE getting wild. I can see both Laurito and Victoria holding on to the secret about their fathers (though, as others have said, I get nervous about them being overheard), but I can also see them giving up their secret when questioned by someone they trust -- someone like JL, for example.

I see that Vivi was kind enough to explain "¿estamos?" -- it does mean, literally, "are we?," but here it is short for "¿Estamos de acuerdo?" Are we in agreement? Agreed? Deal? Are we together on this?

Welcome to CarayCaray, princess_pglouie!

Sometimes you can find episodes with English subtitles at sites like Hulu Plus (not free though). Newer American televisions can be programmed to show English captions too. I don't know of any TN's actually dubbed into English. Sorry.

Diana,

I see that Fatima has already noted your lovely turn of phrase in describing the bond between Adolfo and María.

I was also struck by this observation about Carlota:

"I do wish she would process things more before she speaks and acts. She does not need to necessarily share every tidbit and morsel of conversation"

Hah! The thing is, she DOES need to blurt every thought that enters her head. She has never had normal, adult, conversational filters, and I expect she never will!

Demetrios,

As usual, you crack me up with your riffing on our characters. I do love trying new restaurants, but I think I'll give a pass to Gracie & Pedro's Place!

 

I am still puzzled by the Adolfo/Fina relationship. Maybe I missed a lot last week, but how do the rest of you see this relationship?

One of the things I find so sad in this story is how some of the characters are pining away for those who do not love them. Their whole lives have been focused on the one person they think they love or that they "must have". What an utter waste of a life. It has also bothered me that JL seems to have no recollection of his life with Angelica.

If not for Angelica, JL would have NOT had a life.

Fatima
 

Dear NovelaMaven, Oh, I laughed so much at your marvelous recap this morning. So, so funny and smart. I've had a busy morning with work and can't comment more, but just wanted to thank you, as always, for your amazing recap! Best to you and everyone! Julia R.
 

Very true, Fatima. He seems to have forgotten Angelica altogether. The only time he shows evidence to the contrary is when he's with Amelia.

As to your question about Adolfo, I think a previous point was right: he is hoping she will be his salvation. I don't know how many people he has killed during the time jump or that all of them might have been the scum of the earth, but his constant enabling of Maria and the fact that he knows about her attempts on Monse's life and isn't talking about it can't be cancelled out.
 

Vivi,

Thanks for answering Emarie's question. I'm so glad you enjoyed the recap.

I don't think Alejandro was putting himself ahead of Nadia and Victoria's needs. He was saying he couldn't help anyone until he cleared his name. If he goes to jail, he is out of the game.

He wants to be in a position to help Victor, but in order to do that, he has to help himself first. (You know, "If you are traveling with someone who needs assistance, put on your oxygen mask first.")

Susanlynn,

I liked what you wrote about Mónica:

"Monica should believe Dim and respect his feelings. She has no idea just how awful Gracie is. Monica has only seen the top of that dreadful iceberg"

I know that in the context of this story it might not mean much, but Mónica does seem a bit insensitive, though not necessarily unkind. (Remember her first encounter with pregnant Esme? And how could she NOT KNOW that Refugio had a crush on her?) In that way, she is sort of the AntiFina.

JudyB,

Thank goodness you are back and on the mend. It is definitely not the same around here when you are gone. You have such a gift for making other people feel special. Thank you for your generous words.

Daisynjay,

Thanks so much!

"So help me, one of these kids is threatened or hurt or kidnapped....breathing, breathing"

Oh my, yes. We've had the hideous kidnaping in Buenos Aires. Writers, please don't make us go through another one in Aguazul!

Carlos,

"When I read this I thought, now there's a kindred soul, perhaps I'll invite him over to share a drink and commiserate a bit and then it dawned on me... Hey wait just a cotton pickin' minute..."

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! I'm laughing so hard, the tears are wetting my keyboard. If I'm not careful, my computer will short out -- and it will all be YOUR FAULT!

More later, my friends. Gotta run!

 

Carlos: I laughed delightedly at "When I read this I thought, now there's a kindred soul, perhaps I'll invite him over to share a drink and commiserate a bit and then it dawned on me... Hey wait just a cotton pickin' minute..."

Oh amigo, you have added fun and frivolity to my day. Gracias!

What marvelous comments. I have enjoyed every single one.

Diana
 

Fatima and UA, I agree with your issue with Adolfo. Fina for him is the perfect woman who somehow makes him a better person. I often wonder if just maybe there is something of his mother, she who seems to have disappeared, in her. Fina has that motherly concern over everyone she encounters and if he had never been able to win his mother's love, or she was someone he adored but she was not around, could explain a lot.

Carlos, we kid you about Maria and I know it's lonely at that able, but nothing would make us any happier than seeing all your devotion and belief in Maria come to pass. We had hoped her stay in rehab would do it, but just maybe some other events will give her some sort of real joy in her life, instead of this ongoing life-long obsession with Ale.

Daisynjay
 

Interesting point, Daisy. We never met the Aruguelles parents so we'll never know. All we do know is that they cut Adolfo off financially in some way because of his fecklessness and left all their dinero to Nadia.

Which reminds me...

-- Since we have to assume that the parents are dead (I must have missed something in a line of dialogue early on) Pedro must have all of Nadia's inheritance in his name by now.

-- If JL actually buys Monse's house what happens to the money? Does he still retain any control over it because they're married? And what will she tell the divorce lawyer when that time comes?
 

Isn't it funny how the roles are reversed here, but the storyline of the selling of Monse's house is almost like what happened before?

Remember when Monse sold that plot of land that belonged to her, to Ale, so she could run away with JL?

Now she is selling her house to run away with Ale.
 

I haven't seen this episode yet but your recap is too much! "Patio of lowered expectations" LOL

I wonder how much money JL gave the Captain, back when he was going to jail, to help Montse. Remember, the Capt was to give her back her suitcase but JL was contributing to make sure she had a house and could live.

Add that to what he will pay to buy the house, (his love really is making him blind), he will have given her a fortune.

I must admit I'm not finding too many likable characters at the moment.

A few episodes ago when Monica was talking about moving, my first thought was, well Esme can move in or kick Refugio out to it. With her asking for a divorce I wonder if that will happen.
 

Yes, the writers are putting in too many echoes of the early part of the story. This is annoyingly unoriginal.

The major problem is that Alejandro still needs to clear his name. I am still sure that paying off Graciela at the end would not be the end of his grief with her unless...

Monserrat uses her confession of perjury against her. That would put her in the slammer for long enough for them to recover his assets, bring Pedro down for his complicity in that perjury, get evidence against him for his other crimes, liquidate their assets, and get out of Aguazul to start fresh elsewhere.
 

I given up on the Arguelles parents LONG ago,they are either dead ( Natural causes or killed by Pedros henchmen or by Pedro himself) or they simply dont bother to check on their children anymore since Nadia made zero effort to even call them,heck she doesnt even talk about them and neither does Adolfo. They are one of the biggest mysteries in the novela and since such a long time has passed we will probably never hear from them,ever.
 

Urban:

About the money question. Monse told JL she needed this money to pay off some "high interest" loan (s) she had on her bidnez. So either he gives it to her in cash, very suspicious, or he gives her a check and then she cashes it and does a runner. It's a wonder JL didn't insist on paying the creditor (s) directly.
 

I wonder how many lies and schemes against JL will Rosario, Montse and Ale support with "Well he knew Ale was alive before we married."

And I just don't understand why Montse can't move herself, Lauro, and Rosario out of the house to prove to JL she wants a divorce. I'm sure she can move in with Carlotta or afford a small place. Her staying only makes JL think he can reconcile. Staying with their weird behaviour and coming in late only tips off JL more that Ale is alive.
 

Hi Julia R,

I'm delighted that you got a chuckle out of the recap this morning. Thanks for taking the time to comment!

Carvivlie,

The Patio of Lowered Expectations has been around for a while now. It's been our imaginary hangout since Abismo de pasiones, I believe. :)

JL said he would add to Montserrat's Suitcase o' Cash the interest that would have accrued during the time the Marina was holding the money. Unless we are in a real time warp, that couldn't have been a king's ransom exactly. (Well, yeah, we are in a time warp. But still...)

Fatima,

Josefina made a deliberate decision to USE Adolfo to help Nadia and Victoria. She hasn't forgotten that Adolfo is a schemer and a womanizer, but she doesn't know he's a stone cold killer. (That's something only Pedro, EZ, Sandro and the not quite omniscient Patio are aware of).

In recent episodes, she seems to have been genuinely touched by Adolfo's good intentions and has returned his affection with surprising enthusiasm. Yet her tart exchange with María in Monday's episode makes me hopeful that she still remembers her original mission and is able to keep her emotional distance.

As for Adolfo's intentions, I agree with what others have said: he sees Josefina as a spiritual life raft, as his salvation. He loves her as much as he is probably capable of loving any woman, his recent quickie with María notwithstanding.
 

Moving in with Carlota means being under the same roof with Gracie. Not an option.
 

Mads,

Thanks for pointing out this echo of the earlier part of the story:

"Remember when Monse sold that plot of land that belonged to her, to Ale, so she could run away with JL?

Now she is selling her house to run away with Ale."

And I like this observation of yours:

" It's a wonder JL didn't insist on paying the creditor (s) directly."

Maybe that's what JL will end up doing.

Unlike Urban, I don't mind the plot symmetry. In fact, I find it reassuring that the writers remember what they did a few months back. In long novelas, that is not always the case.

Urban,

If there was a line about the Argüelles parents being dead, then I missed it too.

In the beginning of the story, Adolfo had just come back from Brazil. His parents had been supporting his studies there, but had cut him off when they realized he was majoring in loafing, boozing and whoring. At that time, he used to dress like a brightly colored tropicial fish because 'that's what they wear in Brazil.'

I can't remember anything about Nadia receiving an inheritance. Does anyone remember that?


 

I wonder why dont Carlota or EZ simply kick Gracie out if they dislike her so bad,why do they support the witch being in the house?
 

Oh, Fatima, I forgot to add --

Obviously, María also knows about Adolfo's gangster persona. In fact, she has taken to calling him 'Scorpion' as a kind of pet name.
 

Demetrios: I believe the one condition Graciela had when selling the house to Carlota was that she always be allowed to live there. Otherwise, she would have been long gone.

Diana
 

Demetrios, Also, that house is more than large enough so that they would never have to have contact with each other, but since when has Gracie ever been able to avoid interfering in that which is none of her business?

To continue from where I left off before, Monserrat and Alejandro should bring charges against Gracie. Fabiola can be given immunity for testimony against her, followed by rehab. One DNA test later we find out that she is Gracie's daughter.... after her testimony puts Gracie in the slammer. Karmageddon for both of them.
 

NovelaMaven, to add to your response to princess_pglouie that said, "I don't know of any TN's actually dubbed into English." Actually, Viki.com has telenovelas with English. Viki.com also has an app that you can download onto your phone. I tried to start watching one starring our "beloved Maria" (Grettel Valdez) but I haven't made it through the first episode (Angel Rebelde is the name of it). Anyway, I use the Viki app to watch the Korean dramas that I have become addicted to.

I really enjoyed last night's episode. As if we didn't already know that Pedro is a madman, it clearly showed last night. I hope JL (my Pepe...) gets a hold of himself before he becomes like Pedro. He is a useless wreck right now and Montserrat can runaway fast enough from him.

I am really worried for Laurito. I just have a bad feeling....

Caryn


 

I think we can count on another "child in jep" plot turn before we get to the end or why would we even have child characters in this very adult story?

Poor Laurito is likely to be the victim of the next one.

 

NovelaMaven-

I agree that Ale can't do much of anything until he clears his name. BUT, if he can plot to move his mother, wife, AND small child out of Agua Azul secretly, before he's done one thing to clear his name, I don't know why he can't invest more effort to help Victor think through how they can get his woman and child out of imminent great danger, or at least show a bit more understanding and compassion for Victor's situation.
 

Carlos commented: "María's antics should be keeping you in stitches. She's a Latina Lucy disguised in a blond wig. "
Last night with that dress and really bad wig it looked like she was aiming at a Marilyn Monroe look but failed. A better wig might have done it. Maria is sexy despite her hellish actions.
 

I'm probably the only person that is bored with the storyline. I have resorted to just reading the recaps. There is hardly any character growth, everyone is pretty much the same. Except Dimitro and Fina to a lesser extent. Other than that Monseratt is an idiot, Alejandro still can't get passed his hate for Jose Luis. Jose Luis has regressed. Everyone besides Fina graciela and Dimitro are boring. And when the hell is Monseratt going to take a pregnancy test? Did the writers just drop this damn story line?
 

Fatima: Monse can decide what's in her son's best interests without JL's opinion unless she wants or asks for it.They've only been married a few weeks. JL is nice to the boy but he has not adopted the boy therefore; isn't his father legally. Full disclaimer: I really do not like JL, lol. I had a stepfather(called him papa) since I was 10 and I had a son before I married but my hubby adopted him so became his father, I can't even do his passport without my husband signature. I lucked out both times with stepdads.Romy
 

Vivi: why can't Victor think on his own how to rescue them. Ale has his own problems to deal with and Victor is not helping him with it. Ale, like most of us human beings, is self-centered which is not always a bad thing. You dislike Ale as much as Madelaine likes JL, lol. This is what it makes this forum fun.
Also, as for English, I watch with captions in NY cc3 for telemundo.
 

Maggie: Glad youre commenting here,i see you here for the first time,welcome! I am too kinda bored with JL ,he is basicly acting the Ale from the past right now ( He even attempted to rape Monse last time "shrugs") He is acting like a baby who is losing his candy,he is possesive,out of reach( At this point im even suprised Refoolio is still his friend).
 

Urban,

I'm sure you're right about the future perils of Laurito. I choose denial for as long as possible. However The Bunker of Ironic Detachment is well-stocked por si acaso. I'm sure that when Elna June is back, she will see to an excellent cellar.

Caryn,

Thanks so much for the info about novelas dubbed into English.

Maggie and Romy,

I'm glad to see your comments here. As our friend Carlos likes to say, "Opinions may vary."
 

You have to say one thing about this TN, it sure brings out the comments every day. So nice to bop when I need a break at work from the crazy and see fresh, new comments...and even, better new commentors to liven up the discussion. Welcome everyone!!

We will be having to get extra snacks and tables on the patio!!

Daisynjay
 

You're so right, Daisynjay! And we don't even have a kids' table set up yet.

Plus I think we'd better order a bunch more of those EZ Come/EZ Go chairs so people can roll from table to table when they get ticked off at their protagonista.
 

Judyb...hey...I would love to join you and the rest of the surly girls and boys here at Caray2 at The Surly Girl for a few brews. Make mine a whiskey sour on the rocks. What a great name. We go to Cape May, N.J. a couple times every year on vacation , and there is a bar called The Ugly Mug. Hmmm..carayw has a patio and a bunker, so we really should have a bar ..where everyone knows our names. What should our bar be called ?
 

I understand now why EZ treats Carlota like a queen. She would beat the crap out of him otherwise.

Did you notice her thick, meaty arms in that bedroom scene? Heck, she might even be bigger than Queen Latifah.

She needs to get down to the malecón and work those pounds off on those hiking/biking paths.

Don't run into the Tundra! It just might be parked down there.
 

What a treat NM! With school ending for my 3 kids it's all I can do to watch the show and read the recaps--I'm sorry I haven't been thanking the awesome recappers each day!

My favorite today:

[A man sits alone at a table on the otherwise crowded Patio of Lowered Expectations and takes a thoughtful pull on his bourbon. ¡Ánimo, María! he whispers under his breath.]

Hahaha!!! Carlos you are such a good sport! This blog would not be the same without you!!

And while I'm back, let me just agree with all re: Pedro. He reminds me of the joker on Batman. They've taken his character too far. He's governor for goodness sake. He shouldn't be blowing smoke in faces, clapping at his wife like he's a dog, (wearing. Scorpion necklace). In his position he should have some diplomacy...not act like a goofball. And speaking of goofy, that ear to ear grin?!

Thanks again, NM. My treat for the day!
 

Susanlynn,

A bar on the Patio? I like it! Too bad Sylvia isn't here for the naming. I don't know...

Brindis?
¡Salud!
Rounds?
Fabiola's?

Oxnard Guero, you scamp. I'd watch out for a driverless Tundra approaching in the night, if I were you. The T T gets upset when someone disrespects a lady.

Dear Katy,

I'm delighted that you chose MY day to drop by and say hello. And I'm very glad you've been enjoying the recaps.

As for Pedro:

"He reminds me of the joker on Batman."

YES!!!! You nailed it! I never much liked the Joker, but this...this is like being forced to watch him in almost 200 movies. Ya basta!
 

NovelaMaven,
I just finished your recap. It was excellent, as always. I am extremely busy at work, so I haven't had time to read the comments. I hope to read some during my dinner break.

Just wanted to say how much I loath Peddy for all of his rude comments in last night's epi. What an a**!

Oxnard,
Just wanted to say ITA with what you said about about BM. Adolfo knows she was a prostitute, so he should know better than to protect himself.

Back to work...hasta pronto!
 

Oxnard,
I was talking about your comment from yesterday.
 

Katy,

Wow! What a sweet thing to say. I appreciate so much the way you ladies of Caray Caray have put up with me and made me feel welcome in your midst over the years.

AuntyAnn and Oxnard Huero,

Don't forget, the year is now 2020. There has no doubt been incredible medical advances in the past seven years. Case in point... strides in the care and feeding of coma patients... look how Alejandro hopped out of bed, did a few warm-up calisthenics and jogged off. No doubt in the meanwhile STDs have also been eradicated, although unprotected sex still results in pregnancy at the most inopportune time.

Carlos
 

NovelaMaven - Thanks. I will savor your recap later tonight.

Looking forward to reading all the comments. So Maria just wants one night with Ale to prove she can't lose with the stuff she uses? Maria is kind of crafty, so I'm thinking she's setting up something deeper cause surely she knew Ale would turn her down.

So Monse is going to take away both love and money from JL? Ooh, that's cold. If I didn't know better, I'd think AB was playing Teresa.
 

This comment has been removed by the author.
 

Just dropping by the Patio (aka the POLE) to catch up on the gossip and say thanks to y'all for the recaps. I've been reading them even though I've gotten way behind on watching the show.

How about Qué Barbaro for the name of the new bar?
 

Yeah guys, a scorpion wants to use his stinger whenever he can, but like that old Tower of Power song title says, "Keep Your Monster on a Leash", Fofo.
 

Thanks everyone! I will continue to follow your recaps.
 

Novela Maven and Julia..I like all your proposals for the name of our bar. so far, my favorite is Fabiola's. HA. The polls are still open for any other suggested names.

The only one that popped into my mind was a tribute to our galan Sebastian Rulli...Unruly.
 

NovelaMaven,
I have been so busy today I have been unable to join in the commentary, but that recap was perfection!!! So many witty lines I want to quote but it's nearly impossible on my phone. Many thanks!
Rebecca
 

Unruly

I like it, Susanlynn, but I worry about the message it sends to the Back Row Bad Girls. Speaking of whom...here's another one for your consideration:
JudyB's
-------------------
Qué Bárbaro

Good one, Julia! So punny!
----------------------
Niecie,

Montse's not STEALING JL's money. The house is pretty nice. If they can both stay out of the Anvil Rain at the end, maybe JL and Fabiola can live there together as the happy couple Angélica predicted they would be.

AuntyAnn,

I've often had the same concern as you and OH. Now that Carlos has explained our fears away, however, I feel much better. :D

Thanks for the nice words!

Rebecca,

Aw, shucks! Thanks so much!
 

Oxnard, regarding comments about Carlotta racing down to malecón to lose weight: in my town the "Malecón" is a Dominican restaurant with high fat high calorie food selections.


 

Although we haven't been let in on Maria's planning of the night she wants with Alejandro, I think there is more behind it. She is either planning to:

-- get pregnant
-- infect him with an STD and/or
-- get him arrested so that Monserrat will lose him.

I wouldn't put any of these past her.
 

Another very long day at the city of Miami permits office and then running to take two of the kids to the pediatrician left me with no time to comment, but thank you Novela Maven for such a witty and fun recap. I enjoyed it all as well as everyone's comments. Hopefully tomorrow will be a slower day and I can comment some more. Looking forward to tonight's episode.
Maricruz