Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Lo Que La Vida Me Robó #176, 7/16/14: Adolfo proposes; Pedro disposes--or at least tries a few things to exact vengeance.


Red Sky at Morning, Melodrama Warning!

For us in Viewerville it's been mere 24 hours since the events of Capitulo 175, but for our friends in that anomaly of space-time that is Agua Azul, México, a whole year has passed since just last night! During that year, some of them seem to have been given a reprieve from the drama and had a much-deserved spate of fairly ordinary life off-screen; others have continued on their various downward spirals.  But it looks like the storm clouds of crazy are gathering and our Aguazuleños are now worthy of filming again.   Let's check in on as many of them as we can:

In Her Beautiful House by the Sea

Still beautiful Montserrat is sitting in the living room with her adorable and well-behaved children, Laurito and Romina.  We learn that Romina has just begun to walk and that if Laurito were a US citizen he would be a firm supporter of Title IX as he is impatient to be able to play fútbol with her.   The doorbell rings.  In bursts José-Luis still sporting his sport coat and bright T-shirt look, eager to see his little girl.  It's worth noting that she begins crying as soon as he takes her from Montserrat.

Very savvy toddler who knows a Galán B when she sees one



Agitated Montserrat asks Rosario to watch the children, so she can talk to José-Luis.  José-Luis informs her snarkily that he came to see the children not to talk her, but she tells him that they need to be adults.  Resigned to a rancorous conversation, he follows Montserrat into the study.

Angry, she reminds him that they came to an agreement about Romina, and he accepted it:  he has been allowed by the courts to come to visit Romina every day.  However, she now realizes he tricked her because she just received an order saying that he is seeking custody of Romina, and there is NO WAY Montserrat is going to allow José-Luis to take her daughter from her.

He tells her of course he wants custody.  He claims that Montserrat is the last person in the world to be trusted to raise their daughter Romina properly.  She wants to know what the hell he's talking about.  J-L begins to recount Montserrat's long history of sexual immorality as he sees it:  her first being Sebastián, then being with J-L himself, and finally being with Alejandro and cheating all the while.  J-L maintains he's got to protect his daughter before Montserrat can sell her.

Montserrat gives him a well-deserved slap in the face for the insult.

Stunned by the well-manicured hand o' Montserrat

She then tells him that being with him was worst mistake of her life.  The only thing good about it was that it helped her mature enough as a woman to learn what she wants and what REAL LOVE is at the side of Alejandro.  She tell J-L if he wants a war then he's got it but she's not giving up her daughter.  He storms out of the room while telling her he's ready for whatever she brings.

Looks Like El Alacrán Made a Run on KaBloom  

Josefina notices a vase of luscious-looking red roses that have been left for her on her patio, but that's not all.  She looks again and sees that her entire garden has been filled with arrangement after arrangement of beautiful flowers of all different kinds--orchids, gardenias, lilies--and then she sees Adolfo himself standing by large bunch of Picassoean sunflowers.

She approaches him, saying his name since she is touched by the romantic gesture.  Adolfo tells her that there is one flower for each of the times that he has told her he loves her.  However, among all these many flowers there is one empty vase.  This vase is waiting for the flower that will represent the first time Josefina says that she loves him, too.  He kneels in front of her and takes out a ring box.

"Will you marry me?" he asks her, solemnly.

Josefina is moved but says nothing.  She takes him by the hands and together they walk closer to the table with the empty vase.  She reaches into one of the large arrangements and takes from it a single red rose which she kisses.  Then she puts the rose into the empty vase.

Emotional, Adolfo says, "You do love me!"
"Yes," Josefina says.   "I accept.  Nothing will make me happier than to be your wife."

With great joy, Adolfo puts the ring on her finger.

They kiss.

The patients at Agua Azul General will have to be content with Mylar balloons for a few days 

In the Marina Base, Agua Azul

Dimitrio is looking at the photograph of his lost love and superior officer, Mónica.  Though he may have been stuck in a personal rut since last night/last year, he has advanced professionally and has just been made a Captain!  Refugio comes in to congratulate him, and they sit down for a chat.

Refugio seems a little bummed that he hasn't received a similar kind of promotion but is still very proud of Dimitrio and believes that DIM deserved the captaincy. Embarrassed but clearly touched at the verbalization of affection, DIM jokes that Refugio must want to borrow some money, and Refugio laughs and says how did DIM figure it out?

Dimitrio claims his promotion was because he worked so much, and Refugio agrees that because of DIM's efforts many criminals have been brought to justice.  But Refugio says that he needs to tell DIM something.  He is worried about DIM because it seems that DIM is spending all of his life in an office and has put aside his personal needs.  He reminds DIM that it has been two years since Mónica died and that DIM needs to let it go.

DIM listens but doesn't seem to want to take any advice.  He informs Refugio that though he (DIM) has caught many many criminal one still remains:  El Alacrán.  DIM doesn't know who El Alacrán is or where he is, but he's now sure it's not Medina.

Refugio tells DIM to forget about it.  It's been two years and they've heard nothing from El Alacrán, which means one of two things:  that he's either dead or has stopped fighting.  But DIM insists a third option exists:  El Alacrán is waiting and wants them to THINK that he's dead.

"Someone has to pay for the death of Mónica," declares DIM.
"Let it go!"  Refugio urges DIM again.

DIM tells Refugio he doesn't need his advice, pulls his new rank, and orders Refugio to get out.

New Hottie Alert

A late comer to the game but already looking strong off the bench


A cute busker-dude is playing and singing in the central plaza in Agua Azul.  Esmeralda walks up with an adorable Angel and listens to the busker for a moment.  She seems to like a lot more than his music.  He definitely notices her.

Back to Blissed-Out Adolfo and Josefina

Very happy about their engagement, Adolfo and Finita talk about their love for each other.  Adolfo says Josefina has made him the happiest man on earth.  She praises him for being so romantic and for how he won her over little by little with all the wonderful thing he says and does.  She is so proud of the man he now is.  He tells her that she has a brought out a side of him that was previously hidden away.  Josefina knows that they are going to be very happy together.  He wants to take her out for a special dinner tonight to celebrate.  He suggests they meet at 8 on the malecón, the place where they first kissed.  She says that she loves that he remembers these kinds of details.  They kiss some more.

Munchies Alert!


At least we now have proof that she really does eat sometimes

Fresh from her confrontation with José-Luis, Montserrat is eating her feelings and fulfilling her contractual duties as a product representative by enjoying a bag of Ruffles™at Light Temptations.  Macario comes in, and she tells him about her argument with J-L and also generously invites Macario to share her chips.

Her phone rings.  It's Tía Carlotta who needs Monte and DIM now.  Montse says she's on her way, hangs up the phone, and leaves Macario in charge of the chips and the café, the former of which he savors with a gusto that I hope Frito-Lay finds is worthy of its advertising budget.

A Case Study in How NOT To Co-Parent

José-Luis tells Laurito that he (J-L) trusts Laurito to take care of Romina when he (J-L) isn't there.  Laurito promises he will.  Then J-L begins milking Laurito for information, wondering if Alejandro really loves Romina.  Laurito tells J-L the truth he doesn't want to hear:  Of course!

Alejandro comes home from work and is peeved to see that J-L is still in the house.  Alejandro informs J-L that he was given permission to come for two hours every day, but that he's already overstayed his time.  Laurito begs them not to fight, and Alejandro back off a little but adds it wouldn't happen if José-Luis weren't in the house when he (Alejandro) returned.  José-Luis then informs Alejandro that it's also incredibly annoying for J-L to have to see Alejandro, too, but it wouldn't happen if J-L didn't have to be watched all the time with the children.  Alejandro warns J-L that he does not have permission to take the children out.  J-L protests that Romina is his daughter!

Rosario interrupts their quarrel to say she needs to give Romina a bath and takes Laurito with her.  José-Luis remarks sarcastically that he hopes that Alejandro is enjoying everything that he robbed from J-L and that he doesn't want his daughter calling Alejandro papá.  Alejandro remarks that J-L didn't feel that way when Alejandro's own son was calling J-L papá when he (Alejandro) was in a coma.  Alejandro is still angry at J-L for manipulating Montserrat into marriage.

José-Luis tells Alejandro if he doesn't like José-Luis around then to convince Montserrat to let him have custody of his daughter.  Otherwise, J-L is going to be with them always.

Even In Insurmountable Grief, Gracie Keeps Up the Insults

Carlotta has come with a tray of food and is pleading with Graciela to open her bedroom door and let her in.  It's been three days since Graciela's eaten anything, and Carlotta says she doesn't want Gracie just to say again that she (Carlotta) ought to do the same thing to lose some weight.  Carlotta has had enough of Graciela's rude behavior.

Eventually Carlotta gives us trying and says she will leave the tray of food by the door so that Graciela can get it when she wants it.

In her bedroom alone, Graciela remembers the traumatic events of the year before that have left her bereft and crazy:

Mad Mujer in the Recamara

We see a team of medics coming to take away the body of Fabiola.   Blood-splattered Graciela is stunned speechless as Manuela tries to reassure that EZ has talked to the authorities by phone will meet with them in the morning, and that Alejandro and Montserrat are in Agua Azul but can't come since the baby has just been born, but finally Gracie can take no more and screams at her to shut up and leave her alone.

Graciela staggers towards the family chapel, ripping down the police tape to collapse over the spot where Fabiola's body lay bleeding on the floor from a self-inflicted bullet in the brain.  Graciela cries and screams.  Just when it seemed things couldn't get any worse, who should darken the chapel doorstep but Pedro eager to give Gracie more grief.

He warned her when he asked her to lend him a couple of million, but she refused and once again chose money instead of her children.  She doesn't understand and wants to know what he means.  He smiles his evil smile and asks Graciela who she thinks gave Fabiola the gun?  She cries that he is a bastard, but he just smiles and tells her to pray to God to be forgiven for all the sins she has committed.  Now she's the one who needs Jesus.


Kicking Someone When She's Down, Creepy Pedro Style

Back in the present moment Graciela howls and cries, "My daughter!  My little daughter!"

Carlotta Is Done! 

In the living room of Mansion Mendoza-Basurto, Carlotta is telling DIM and Montserrat about Gracie's current condition.  She thanks them for coming and tells them she is worried.  Things can't go on like this.  Montserrat says she knows but what can they do?  They've tried in the past, but Gracie doesn't want to talk to them.  Carlotta says it's no longer a matter of what Graciela wants. She hasn't eaten for three days and she won't let Manuela in to clean the room.  It's going to end badly if they don't do something now.

Carlotta is also upset that DIM and Montserrat have left Carlotta with this responsibility.  It's been a year that Gracie has been shut up, and Carlotta has had to deal with it everyday and it's causing her grief with EZ who is also fed up.  Gracie is Montse and DIM's mother.   Carlotta knows that Gracie hurt them both, but she's paying for it now.  They're obligated to do something for her.

Montserrat and DIM agree that Carlotta is right and promise they will take charge of Graciela now.

Adolfo Saves His Lady Love

While waiting on the malecón to meet his new prometida Josefina for their celebratory dinner, Adolfo hears his phone ring.

"Hello, Alacrán," croaks an all too familiar, highly unwelcome, constipated-sounding voice on the other end.
"Pedro!" Adolfo says.
"Take a good luck at your stupid fiancé crossing the street to meet you," Pedro warns.  "Record it in your memory because it's the last time you're going to see her."

Adolfo looks up to see Josefina smiling and waving to him from a distance.  He then sees a speeding car is headed straight towards her.  In the next moment, Adolfo is running across the street to save her.

Wouldn't it have been easier just to remind her to look both ways before she crosses the street?

And luckily he does!

Mansion Mendoza-Basurto

Montserrat and DIM are pounding on Graciela's bedroom door, demanding that she let them to talk, but she doesn't respond.  Montse tells DIM that Carlotta is right and that they can't leave without talking to Gracie.  Things have reached their limit.  Finally, DIM just kicks open the door.

They know it's bad when they find her without make-up or blonde highlights

They are shocked to find her passed out on the floor.  DIM checks for a pulse and realizes she is still alive.  He calls for an ambulance while Montserrat calms for Carlotta to come to help.  He tells Montserrat not to move Gracie.

Back to Adolfo and Josefina

They land in a grassy area, and instinctively Adolfo is on his feet quickly reaching for his gun and looking to see if anyone else is around.  Things seems safe, so he goes to help Josefina, asking her if she's okay.  She's discombobulated but fine and says she hurt her arm.  She can't believe the way that idiot was driving but is ignorant of the even greater danger she is also in.  She wonders if he's okay, and he says yes.  Nervous and eager to get her someplace safe, he suggests they just get some Chinese take-out or whatever and go back to her place to celebrate their engagement.

She agrees, laughing a little, and adds as a joke, "To celebrate being alive."

Interlude of Esmeralda and Refugio, Still Fighting About The Same Thing

Refugio has come to the house to take care of his son for the night.  Esmeralda informs him that little Angel has already been fed and bathed, and shouldn't have any problem going to bed.  Refugio wants to know if she's going to be out until 5 AM again, and she reminds Refugio that he works during the day, but she works at night.

Refugio tells Esmeralda that she doesn't have to work.  She says she doesn't do it because she needs to but because dancing is her passion.  They've already talked about this so what is happening that he's bringing it up again?  He says that he believes that she only works just to annoy him.  She informs him that he's not the most important person in the world and that she dances for herself and that it has nothing to do with him.

He tells her that now that she has a child her priorities need to change, but she won't have any of that.  She declares she is an excellent mother and that Refugio can't make decisions about her life.  He tells her it's not good for her to be doing what she's doing, and she tells him it's not good for him to be doing his work, either, risking his life chasing down criminals.   He claims HIS work is decent while her work…well.  He just doesn't want their son to be ashamed of her.  She gets mad and tells Refugio her work is decent, too, and this attitude of his is why she won't get back together with him.

Back to Mansion Mendoza-Basurto

Carlotta is alone in the living room as EZ returns from his political party meeting, looking glum.  Carlotta assumes it must mean that the meeting went badly for him, but it turns out he's only acting and teasing her and that actually things went unbelievably well!   He tells Carlotta that she now has standing in front of her a candidate for governor of the state!

Congratulations!  Joy!  Promises of a very special dinner to celebrate!

He adds that he hopes she talked to her niece and nephew and has good news for him, too.  She asks him to sit down to recount the tale of what just happened to Gracie.  EZ asks if Gracie tried to kill herself, and Carlotta says it doesn't seem so, but she is waiting for Montse and DIM to call her from the hospital and tell her what the doctors have said.  EZ says, no matter, he doesn't want Gracie to return to the house and that is his last word on the subject.  He wants Carlotta to support him in this.

Poor Blind Nadia and Victor Hanging Out In Pedro's Old Place

Victor puts some documents in an envelope and announces all is order to sell the house.  Nadia can't wait since she has so many bad memories of the place.  She spent the worst moments of her life there.  Victor says now that the house is in her name they can sell it without a problem.

Victoria comes running in and wants to stay up since she's not sleepy, but they tell her she's got school tomorrow and has to go to bed.  Victor offers to take her and read her a story and she goes along happily with him.  Nadia tells her to brush her teeth and then tells Victor she'll see him in the bedroom.  They offer up some more Te amos to each other for good measure.

Finita and Adolfo Enjoy Take-Out and Plan Their Wedding

Josefina tells Adolfo that maybe they couldn't go to the restaurant but still she thinks this evening is super romantic.  The day was really special for her even in spite of the fact that that were almost killed by a speeding car.  And she says that that was even romantic, too, since Adolfo saved her.

"Thank you," she tells him, sweetly.
"I would give my life for you, Finita," he tells her.

He assures her that while he is with her nothing will happen to her.  She says that this is why she likes being with him:  she feels loved, protected and secure.  She thanks him again.  He thanks her for agreeing to be his wife.

He changes the subject and suggests they pick a date for the wedding.  She says she doesn't want to feel rushed and wants to plan the day calmly because it will be the most important one of their lives.  He says this is what he wants, too.  She suggests six months, but he protests that's too much time and suggests three.  She smiles and says how about four instead, and he agrees.  They toast on it.

Back to Victor and Nadia

In the their room alone, we see Nadia getting ready for bed.  She pulls back the covers and….
More action that she ever expected from Victor between the sheets

It's filled with scorpions!  But because she's Poor Blind Nadia she can't see them and continues her routine oblivious of the danger that awaits her.  Yikes, those scorpions are just running around all over, and she is just taking off her robe and about to hop into bed with them all.  This is going to be gross!!!!

Luckily, Victor enters in exactly the right moment.

"Don't move!" he cries.

Back to Adolfo and Finita Plus a Menacing SUV

Adolfo says he hates to be away from Finita, but he needs to leave to deal with an important matter.  She says she understands and that they'll see each other tomorrow.  They kiss, te amo, and wish each other good night.

Outside her house, Adolfo is vigilant.  He goes to his car and seems to be taking out a gun.  In the next instant, he notices a large SUV coming towards him, and he raises his gun and starts to fire, but he didn't cock the gun in time or something because he's too late and the SUV just speeds away.

Adolfo says out loud,  "I know Pedro sent you."

Agua Azul General

Montserrat and Dimitrio are coming to check in Graciela, lying in her hospital bed and looking dejected and depressed.

Really secretly praying for the strength to torment her children a few more years

Gracie wants to know why she is there.   They tell her they found her passed out on the floor of her bedroom and were worried she decided to do something stupid.

Gracies declares that she has every reason for not wanting to live, but she doesn't have the courage to do what Fabiola did.  "My daughter!" she whimpers.

Montserrat tells Graciela that thinking this way won't solve anything.

Graciela says she's asked God to give her the strength that Fabiola had and to end all this, but she can't.

Montserrat tells her they've talked to the doctor and that apparently Gracie fell unconscious because she is dehydrated and anemic.  They want Gracie to spend the night in the hospital and tomorrow she's going to have a few tests to make sure she's okay after shutting herself up for all those months.

"No, no, no!"  Gracie insists.  "I don't want to stay!"

DIM tells her it's not a matter of what she wants; it's what she's got to do.

Resigned, Gracie asks DIM and Montse in turn if they will stay with her tonight, but they both refuse saying they can't and have got things to do.  It's only one night, after all.  Gracie can't believe they are abandoning her, but it seems neither DIM or Montse can be guilt-tripped by Gracie anymore.

Dim informs Graciela, "Estás cosechando lo que sembraste."  You are reaping what you sowed.

She'd Know That Sadistic Over-Compensating Streak Anywhere

Nadia and Victor are both shaken after the scorpion incident, but Nadia especially.  She knows it was Pedro!  Victor reminds her Pedro is dead.  Nadia says she knows it's crazy, but she can't help feeling this way.  Their bed was full of scorpions and someone put them there.  He assures her that he's called the police.  They are on the way and will find out what happened.  She asks if he's check to make sure Victoria is okay, and he promises Nadia that Victoria is safe and still asleep.

The doorbell rings and the maid, Susanna, brings in Police Chief José-Luis.    He says he just found out what happened and wants to be in charge of this investigation.  He wants them to tell him exactly what's going on.  Did they really find scorpions in their bed?   Yes, they did.

"It was Pedro!" insists Nadia.

José-Luis promises to get to the bottom of whatever happened, and the doorbell rings again and in come a team of men from the Control de Plagas--love this name!  It sounds like the Plague Control in English, but I'm guessing it's some kind of animal control or pest control.  They want to know where the scorpions are and José-Luis says he'll go with them to check things out, too.  Victor asks Susanna to escort the men up to the bedroom.  They all go up, leaving Nadia and Victor alone again.

Nadia tells Victor again that she knows it was Pedro and that she's worried and thinks that Pedro must now be very close to them.  Victor says he understands her worry but that it's impossible.  What seems more strange to Victor right now is the way José-Luis reacted when Nadia told him about Pedro.  Victor says José-Luis didn't act surprised and didn't say anything about Pedro being dead.

"It's weird,"  Victor comments.
"You're right!" says Nadia.

End of Episode

Before I close,  I just want to warmly welcome all of you lurkers out there and to encourage you to comment sometime soon since the show will be over in a few weeks.  No judgment for lurking!  I confess that I lurked for over a year before I finally got around to commenting.  I remember the first time I tried to decipher and type in that twisted text to prove I wasn't a robot in order to post a comment, I just got a failure notice.  I didn't try again for ages.  I understand the barriers!

But as these final episodes wind down, please know that we would all love to hear from you.  We on the Robó team work hard to bring you these summaries and are always excited to discover that you have read our work and that the recaps helped you in your Spanish studies.  Thanks for taking an extra minute and telling us if you can.

Avances:  I missed them this week, but I'm sure they were exciting.




















Labels:


Comments:
Great work, Julia, and I love the captions to your pix.

MDA really knows how to rewrite history; you'd think he took lessons from Gracie herself. Monse should have made a deal with EZ: I'll take Gracie off your hands if you get MDA off my back.

It was inevitable that Nadia would be the scream queen in a horror movie scene. Scorpions are nasty things. There are some species as big as lobsters.

So now Victor, Dimitrio, and Refugio are suspecting MDA of helping Pedro. At least there won't be much time before we know.

I've been praying that Monse will not fall for any more of Gracie's BS. Here's hoping.
 

Julia, thanks for your very complete and fun recap. I really enjoyed your captions especially "Really secretly praying for the strength to torment her children a few more years." Isn't that the truth? I couldn't believe that all Graciela could do was cry about Fabiola when Montse and Dimitrio came to see her at the hospital but was so upset when neither of them could stay the night with her. Of course, Dimitrio was in the best form with his "you are reaping what you sowed" comment.

I was happy that Carlota put the responsibility for Graciela on Montse and Dimitrio. Being the natural caregiver she had slipped into that role with Graciela. Thanks to Ezequiel for putting that move in motion.

It annoyed me that Víctor discounted so easily PBN's suspicion that Pedro had put the scorpions in the bed. JL 's agreement with PBN's opinion sure woke him up to the unpleasant possibility that maybe they identified the wrong body.

Poor Josefina and pathetic Adolfito. He should know their relationship is doomed especially with Pedro's minions lurking in the shadows and trying to run Josefina over.

The best scene of the episode was Pedro telling Graciela that she needed Jesús. The only thing that would have made it better would have been if he had thumped her on the head.

Jarifa





 

Okay Julia. You convinced me to come out of lurkdom. I'll admit I haven't commented on the site since Mentir Para Vivir ended, but I do watch Robo and I do enjoy watching it.

I was really planning on commenting on last night's episode, but put it off. Last night was definitely worth commenting about. I do feel sorry for Fabs and I almost believed Gracie's little speech to her. I'll admit I did see the spoilers for last nights episode a week or two ago. I figured out that the Mexican broadcast is not extremely far ahead of the US broadcast. I think either 187 or 188 aired tonight. I only saw Fabs suicide scene so I did not know that Peddy was the one who encouraged her to confront Gracie with a gun. In Gracie's flashback of the event it did annoy me how Peddy showed up and said "Te hace falta Jesus". Although I do think he's right, I think the same goes for him as well.

Honestly I actually hope Adolfito's karmaggedon isn't too bad. He's the character I sympathize with the most, surprisingly. Not so sure about Eze yet though. I don't know what could happen to him. I'm also unsure of MDJL's karmaggedon/fate.

In the avances for Friday, I noticed Ale punch JL on the face and Peddy goes to see Maria.

I too am thinking that maybe this hospital stay for Gracie will become more serious. I'm thinking something will turn up the tests she has to do.
--TF


 

Julia, I LOVE photos of clouds!! I have a good friend who always sends me photos of clouds.

Here is what I REALLY liked: "At least we now have proof that she really does eat sometimes"

I was DYING laughing!!!

I could not watch tonight, but I sure didn't need to as your recap was PERFECT! I am literally amazed that JL has been allowed to remain as Chief of Police. Could someone clarify for me why JL showed up so quickly on the scene? Did Victor or someone else call him? He didn't just happen by, did he?

In addition, isn't it a bit early for Graciela's Karmageddon?

Fatima
 

Julia R, this was a super recap with laugh-snorting captions on the screen grabs.

Gracie/Gaudy with NO makeup or blonde streaks? Wow, she truly is disturbed by the turn her life has taken. I give Daniela Castro props for playing this episode without cosmetic assistance.

Certainly PBN couldn't see the scorpions, but didn't they make a scratchy noise on the sheet? Maybe PBN was distracted by dreams of her handsome Victor.

Adolfo and his romantic gestures? I think I liked Victor's giant cart of flowers better--a more unified image. The array of vases was a little messy to my eyes. Can Fofito survive the pressure of a constant Pedro threat hanging over his head?
 

Great Recap! Love "Red Sky at morning, Melodrama Warning"!

I thought it was funny that Romina started crying as soon as JL walked in. Too Funny!

I do, however, lament the further downfall of Jose Luis. He's getting crazier and crazier. Looking back a couple episodes, I don't know how I hoped he'd make a turn around. I get it, he's angry, frustrated and feels wronged. But goodness, he's being a nesio! You lost JL! Move on! There are other women out there! I really, really want Montse to tell him, seriously move on, I'm not worth it! Haha. Now I'm hoping that Romina, who resembles Ale more than JL in this TeleNovela world, ends up being Alejandro's and not JL's so he (JL) can leave Aguazul. Just go JL, go.

Adolfito has completely won me over but I'm scared for his future. The Telenovela Gods are not going to easily forgive his sins. And Finita, is she waiting for Dimi to wake up and realize he wants her as she wants him??? Ahhh! Reacciona!!

NOTE: May I please add from yesterday's capitulo, a flat stomached Monse after giving birth was just ridic! Esmeralda had the puffy tummy for a few days and I found it great because it was real. That's it, Gracias.

And THANK YOU to all the RECAPPERS! For your hard work and welcoming those of us who discovered this gem a bit late in the game! I love it here! Tell us which novela you're doing next, I'll watch anything you all recap!

THANK YOU!
THANK YOU!
THANK YOU!
Santi
 

Goodness, this was such a hilarious recap!! The captions, your witty commentary, perfect!

I felt for JL actually. Two hours with his daughter is unfair. He's terrible, but he obviously loves her.

I am so sick and tired of Esmeralda and Refugio. He's an idiot caveman, but Esmeralda's obsession with pole-dancing is ridiculous. One, it's not really about the dancing, but two, DO YOU KNOW HOW MANY OTHER THINGS YOU COULD DO IF YOU MISS DANCING SO MUCH?!! I mean she could have a studio to teach women how to do it. She could work at a gym and give one of those classes for getting in shape by pole-dancing. She could take actual dance lessons!
 

Julia, thank you for your time and wonderful recap. Especially for posting same night. I disconnectedy tv because the wire is alittle chewed up when my yorkies were puppies, so tonite I come home in great anticipation of watching tonight's episode. i plug it in and there is no recording...what in the world??&$!@" well, after a few moments, silly me I realize that Tv needs to be plugged in to record anything. So Lucky for me I checked in and read your recap out of true necessity with PURE pleasure!! I'm kinda new, last month or so and I dont know how I managed before. I have a question that has left me confused. A few nites ago they showed the next night preview with Gracie sitting in her room and Pedro appears and she looks scared. The following night I did not see that scene though?? What happened, did I dream that preview??? Thanks also for the invite to comment. I never realized that you look forward to our postings. Thanks to all of you!!! You guys are my retreat. I help my daughter who is caregiver to her father. He suffeted devastating stroke and he is pAralyzed on right side and has aphasia. It happened while was out of the country and she had to fly half way around the world twice to bring him back. She does everything for him, with so much love. I help her half the time between showings and weekends. I have the deepest respect for caregivers. I am so humbled. Sooooo, this is novella and blog helps distract me for a few moments. I know each one of us has their owm story....thx for everything

 

I wonder at what was Gracie so mad about in the flashback,that a few minutes ago,she lost Fabiola or that Pedro has beaten her at her own catchphrase? :)
I also laughed when Graciela said to Pedro " Maldito,Mil Veces Maldito!!" I couldnt help but laugh after hearing that. I wonder where EZ's cat is hiding,did it die after accidently seeing the now Ugly Gaudencia?

I laughed at " Nadia will receive more action from scorpions Than Victor!" :)

JL is really falling,if what Victor saying is true then JL lost all my sympathy. And did he really just compare Monse with Gaudy??? Adolfo is silly too,he should just let go of Josefina ,his life is way too dangerous at the moment.. I guess HP (Hurricane Pedro) is on the move now,hopefully i didnt just insult the HP printers just now!
 

Sorry for oversharing and getting off subject.
Sincerest apologies.

Btw, "gracie praying for strength to keep tormenting her children" made me laugh outloud. Because it rings so true.
 

And i guess i know where Maria got her wig from,from PCI: Peddy Claus Industries), a shop exclusive for Aguazul,there you can get Wigs,Fake Bodies,Dolls,Wine Bottles,Cats,Scorpions and many other great things for a variable price!.And If you kill someone using the Wig you get a 30%bonus for the next Wig you attempt to buy and if you got a bonus atleast two times ,you get the next one for free! They also offer special Wine Bottles,where you can vine,whine and wine at the same time,High Depression guaranteed! Loyal customers will also receive a Tundra and a ticket to the historical museum of Sergio Sendels' Broken Phones!!
 

High depression and suicide guaranteed! *
 

Santi, I am with you about Romina. I always felt in my heart of hearts that Romina is Ale's baby. The doc at ER coulda been off a couple of weeks, since nobody ask for ADN its never been confirmed. As in most tn's probably the little one will get ill and need blood and lo and behold JL is not the papa. Or perhaps it will come about if JL makes good on his threat to take Romy away thru the legal system. Whichever way, if that happens that will be a swift blow to JL, yes and maybe he will go away, and Monse and ale will get to live happily ever after. What a drag for Almonte family to have to see JL every single day for 2 hours. Only say that cuz he such a jerk. I think he goes more for the opportunity to aggravate them than out of love for his baby.
 

Julia

Thanks again for a detailed and colorful recap. Your recap is so descriptive that one doesn't need to watch the episode.

For now my comment is:

Are all these flowers on the show fake or what? Where do they get them all?
 

Julia,
Thanks so much for the recap. It is wonderfully written, and full of snappy lines and awesome screen shots. Gracias for all the hard work.

I am about to fall asleep, but I had to comment about the last scene in the capitulo. I thought the exact same thing as Vic. JL did not even mention once that Peddy was dead and that it would be impossible for Peddy to have planted those scorpions. JL was not alarmed and was calm. I just have a bad feeling that what many of you thought is true. That MDA is the person that helped Peddy. If you think about it, JL has the money to pay a doctor to treat Peddy, and the money to keep him in hiding. Plus, JL is the police chief, so he was probably in control of the investigation to find Peddy. Also, JL would help Peddy because JL knows that Peddy wants revenge on Ale and would kill Ale. And JL thinks that if Ale were gone, he would have a better life. Remember what JL told Refu at the bar. Something like, "Nadie tiene la vida comprada". Everything is making sense now and it is not looking good for MDA.

No novella on Thursday because of the awards show. BOO!

Must sleep.

Off to bed...hasta pronto!
 

Julia R., thank you for the fun recap with the photos. Loved, "They know it's bad when they find her without make-up or blonde highlights"

The Ruffles were fuzzed out in my area, I wondered what they were. I guess Time Warner didn't pay their Ruffles bill. She was sure eating them sparingly, too many and she wouldn't be able to get back into the leggings.

Hmm, new guy for Esme? "So is this troubadour going to OK with her pole dancing?" was my immediate thought.

I have some other math here: Refugio is JL's friend. Refugio is telling Dim to lay off Alacron. Very strange, not sure what it means.
JL pops up suddenly before the exterminators--? Is he on Pedro's tail and wanting to find him, or is he helping Pedro???
And, JL and Pedro have a huge thing in common, they both want to destroy Ale.
Who would have known where and when Fina and Adolfo would have dinner? Is Adolfo still using a Pedro-issued smartphone with GPS capabilities?

Julia, "Really secretly praying for the strength to torment her children a few more years" was genius. Did anyone one note narcissistic Gracie asking for her "baby" to stay with her (Dim), and although he was going to do what he had to to help her he clearly was no longer going to be sucked dry by this selfish woman. She's sad and pathetic but unchanged, it seems to me.

Oh, and the advances were actually post views and pretty unrevealing. Someone had a gun, but it looked like an old scene.
 

Good morning, Everyone!

I always enjoy reading your comments.

Urban: Thanks so much and glad you liked the captions and pix. You have been giving us such great screen caps lately in your recaps You inspired me to add a few.

Jarifa: Thanks for reading last night and for your comment. Pedro was awful, but, I agree with you, if anyone deserved to be kicked when down it was Gracie, for sure. His comment to her was very satisfying.

TF: So glad you decided to comment! I agree with you about Adolfo. He has long been my favorite character, too. I realize it makes very little sense given all the terrible things he has done, but I just forgive him. I thought his proposal last night was the sweetest one on the show so far.

Fatima: Thanks so much for your comment-glad you liked those Agua Azul Clouds.

To answer your question, I forgot to add in the recap that Victor told Nadia at the beginning of that scene that he had already called the police and the Plague Control and that they were on their way. J-L was just responding to the call which is why he showed. Anyway, thanks for the question and I added that information to the recap this morning.

La Paloma: Thanks for your comment. I agree that Daniela Castro is very brave and and really goes all out in a scene. It's amazing how great she looks even as a crazy woman who hasn't bathed for ages!

Santi: Thanks for your comment and so happy you enjoy the recaps. I felt the same way you did when I first found Caray Caray.

Anonymous at 01:37: Thanks for stopping by to comment and so glad you read and enjoyed the recap. ITA about Refugio and Esmeralda. As I was recapping that scene, I felt that I'd already written the same thing about them before many times. I thought maybe if I scanned my old recaps I could just find something to cut and paste into the new one.

Novella lover; Thanks for commenting and sharing and I'm happy to know the recaps can help you in your difficult situation.

I think the scene you mentioned with Gracie and Pedro came when she had just returned from Italy and he appeared to 'welcome her home' as he said, though it was just to ask to borrow money. She refused and then he set up Fabiola with the gun. He probably expected Fab to kill Gracie but she killed herself instead.

CountxAlacran: Thanks for reading and I always love reading your comments. You had me really laughing with your idea about Pedro's shop for supplies. Especially loved "Loyal customers will also receive a Tundra and a ticket to the historical museum of Sergio Sendels' Broken Phones!! "

Victoria: Thanks so much for your comment, and ITA on the flowers! I was thinking the same thing and wondering what everyone else does in Agua Azul if they need a small bouquet since the supplies are always stockpiled by Victor and Adolfo.

I think I got everyone this morning and will check back in throughout the day and try to respond to you all this time.

Thanks for reading! Julia R.
 

Emarie: Missed you last round since we were commenting at the same time.

Thanks so much! So happy you enjoyed the recap. Your comment about the new guy really made me laugh!
 

Aunty Ann: Glad you enjoyed the recap and wishing you sweet dreams and a peaceful rest!
 

Wow. Wow. And also Wow. Loved the opening paragraph and then had pelvic floor issues laughing so hard at the captions. (Older women and raucous laughter...danger zone!)

I'm always sure you're a Carlos blowby from his own galan days when I read those captions. You both have such a marvelous, saucy sense of humor.

Savvy toddler knows a galan B when she sees one

and the one about the hospital patients having to make do with Mylar balloons for a while since Fofito has bought every bouquet in town!

and especially:
More action than she ever expected from Victor.

Favorite moment (I only watched the first 15 minutes) was seeing the arrival of the busker. That is Josefina's real-life husband, a composer of wonderful romantic music. We last saw him in Gancho, and he and Fina were a riot in that one. {At least I'm pretty sure that's him. He's one hawt dude.]

The whole schtick about Esmeralda defending her "career" though strikes me as ridiculous. Yes, start an exercise studio, or a daycare center, something productive. Not gyrating in front of borrachos. Jeez!

Montserrat eating chips...yeah, right. I noticed the actress only nibbled a few.

Simply a wonderful recap in every way. Astute, funny, well illustrated and dangerous for pelvic floors over age 70!
 


Welcome, TF! We're always eager for new commentators here.

Daniela Castro is very gutsy for being on camera without makeup... or makeup that makes her look older; I'm not sure which it is (she ia actually only 44 years old). Love the creepy music that introduced that reveal.

Her obsession with Fabiola would be understandable if it were only about the visceral reaction to her suicide, but what's really going on with Gracie is that of all three of her children she might have still been able to infantilize Fabiola to satisfy her own need for someone she could control. She did this with Dimitrio until Josefina came along. Falling in love with Josefina forced Dimitrio to grow up.

Fabiola didn't have a man in her life by this time (since Sandro had been murdered) but I think that Gracie's past treatment of her and the fact that she had seduced Sandro would have been a huge stumbling block as well as Gracie's insatiable greed.
 

Magnificent Julia. You took some serious, sick, deadly moments and made me smile and laugh in your descriptions. Only way to think of these TN's.

Right now, I'm with little Romina. I wouldn't trust JL as far as I could throw him. If he has stooped to the level of aiding and abetting Pedro, then he deserves and extra special anvil. Yes, life has sucked for him, but that would not support doing what he's doing. I hope for the sake of all it's not him, but not feeling warm and fuzzy right now. Still would love to know how the heck whoever it is keeps getting access into homes to leave these "gifts" without being noticed.

Kudos to Daniela last night from me as well. Hardly recognizable right now, except for her wondrous voice. That is one of a kind. But I understand the "kids' reluctance to help, and still not caving to her every demand still. I would guess she can't live with her conscience right now alone, but agree we are most likely going to have something more serious wrong with her. Welcome to your Armageddon Gaudy Girl.

I had such a lovely Amor Bravio moment last night with our new Esme heartthrob. I'm no fan of Refugio, and the fact he hasn't gotten promoted after all this time made me chuckle. Nope, the guys with a few lightbulbs not firing usually don't make it to the top.

Is there some sort of theme now permeating in this--you don't stay with the "true love" you start with and it's the second love you actually are happy with?? Still not there with Fina and Adolfo since I don't like the danger he's put her in. And it also leaves my Dim with no one. (Better not be Virginia!!)

Daisynjay
 

JudyB: Thanks so much for your praise which always means a great deal to me. I love and look forward to your own comments, too. Thanks for the information about busker guy being Finita's real life husband. I get they look great together!

Daisynjay: Thanks so much for reading and enjoying the recap. I was laughing at your observation about Refugio, too. It's not surprising he was passed up for promotion in favor of DIM!
 

One more thought before I head off to work. NovelaMaven and Carlos have both argued in the past that they think Graciela has some maternal feelings. I think her psychic breakdown after Fabiola's death is proof that indeed, she does have some. (UA, I know you probably disagree.) But if she had none, she would have blown off Fabiola's suicide the same way Pedro did. Kvetched about the bloody mess on her dress, sent it to the cleaners and moved on with her life. Instead, she is like a gutted fish. Scooped and scraped out until there is nothing left but desperation.

Clearly her maternal feelings always took a back seat to her insecurity, need to control and greed. But they were there.

But....opinions may differ.

And Julia...you are most welcome! Praiseworthy indeed.
 

I believe that Gracie's maternal feelings take back seat to her obsession with money, which comes from her having grown up dirt poor in a tin shack while she was surrounded by the luxurious lifestyles of other girls like Amelia (whose mothers were clients of Gracie’s “seamstress” mother). Having grown up dirt poor left Gracie with a sense of insecurity and, possibly, self-doubt.

Although, Gracie sees her love for her children as natural or honest, it’s more about her need to control everything and everyone around her due to her insecurity. She can’t realistically understand the damage she has caused her children. Their worth is directly related to her obsession with money; thus, she had no qualms making contracts with Ale or MDA re Monse. However, Josefina left to realize herself and her own self-worth; and Monica was too smart to be bought. Hope this makes sense.

 

Julia: This was lovely and very well written. Although you had so many wonderful lines my favorites were among the captions: "Red Sky at Morning, Melodrama Warning!" was my favorite. Also enjoyed " Very savvy toddler who knows a Galán B when she sees one and "Stunned by the well-manicured hand o' Montserrat".

I tried to muster up some sympathy for Graciela, but came up empty handed. I do agree with Carlos, NovelaMaven and Judy that I do believe she has some sense of maternal instinct. A twisted one, buried deep but there. Still, last night, I felt the pity should be reserved for Fabiola who died so tragically, rather than her mother.

I do agree with La Paloma that "I give Daniela Castro props for playing this episode without cosmetic assistance". As she, daisy and others have noted - Daniela has been stellar.

Santi, I am with you on hating what has been done to JL's character and hope to heavens he is not in cahoots with Pedro, although I have a sinking suspicion that may be the case.

I thought Adolfo's proposal was lovely. His character tugs at my heartstrings. He exuded pure panic when Fina was almost run over. He cannot keep constant vigil over her every second. His only choice, his only hope is that Pedro dies, by his hands or another's.

Welcome TF! Enjoyed your comments and insights.

Alex Sirvant! The romantic interest for our Fina (from Gancho) is here! And yes, hottie indeed. Judy, I had no idea he and Fina were a couple and are married! Now, while I was happy to see him, I did worry about the glances he and Esme exchanged. That said, Esme and Refugio are still mired in the "he hates her line of work and she isn't quitting" quagmire. If they are not going to get back together, this is a mighty fine replacemeent for him!

Looks like more mayhem tonight. Can't wait!

Julia, this was incredible.

Diana
 


I didn't think Gracie could blow off the suicide; it would be traumatic for anyone in this tale -- except Pedro and probably EZ -- to witness such a thing. What she can't face is her own role in this violent ending of a human life.

In her own head she has probably rewritten history to make herself believe that Juventino killed Benjamin on his own initiative (which wouldn't be entirely unbelievable to others). It was not a bloody, violent death because the weapon was poison. Nobody thought to do an autopsy when he died because it looked as though he died of natural causes.

She probably kicked herself 20 ways from Sunday when Benjamin didn't fall for the pregnancy entrapment she attempted. However, had she kept Fabiola she wouldn't have had a snowball's chance in hell of marrying Lauro and would have resented her over it. That wouldn't have ended much better than this.
 

Julie- I loved the recap and all your screen cap titles. :) What a treat this morning.

Since we have no shows tonight, I'll actually get a chance to catch up and watch this episode tonight. Although I'm not excited to see all the mayhem not-dead Pedro is causing. I really hope JL is not the one helping him, and the writers are just trying to get us to think that.

Judy- You are half right about that cutie Alex Sirvent (actor/singer/songwriter). I squeed a bit when I saw the pic of him in the recap. He and Veronica made a lovely couple in Gancho as Rolu and Ximena. However, is real life wife is another dark haired beautiful actress who sing, Ximena Herrera who is currently starring in El Senor de los Cielos as Aurelio Casilla's wife: http://tinyurl.com/od2hud7

Here are Rolu (Alex) and Ximena (Veronica) singing together in Gancho: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jsv3Nx0WElo

Here is a duet Alex and wife Ximena did for the love theme he wrote for Abismo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKtF8Ge9fl0
 

Hey, how about pairing new singer guy with Fina, so we can have a Rolu-Ximena reunion?! I know Carlos would be on board with this. :)
 

One more comment: I don't think Graciela was crying for Fabiola: she was crying for herself. Her latest "lap dog" was gone; she has not ended up as she would have liked; her youth is waning, etc., etc., etc. Faniola was only a prop so she could still "appear" as the wonderful mother since Montse and Dimitrio had jumped the family ship. One more illusion gone from the Graciela show.

Jarifa
 

Ximena Herrera and Alex aren't married anymore.
 

Anon 9:50- That's sad. They were so cute. Oh well. That means Alex is on the market?...I am planning a Mexico trip soon... :)
 

Julia, thank you so much for clearing that up about the timing of JL's appearance. Things are happening so quickly here. I don't want to miss a thing!

Amazing that, FINALLY, a light has gone off in Victor's head about something, anything! Hopefully, he will take it one step further.

Fatima
 

Thanks, Julia R , for that excellent retelling and the photos. We took the girls to an amusement park yesterday and did not get home until 11 pm, so I am especially appreciative of this recap.

JL will never be out of Mony and Ale' s life until he is dead and gone. Child custody fights are awful. The emotional stress is hard on everyone. That scene of JL with the kids was hard to watch.

I did not recognize GaudyGrace sitting on the floor on the night before last. I thought she was Maria.

Anyone who has taken care of an elderly parent can identify with the scene of Mony and Dim telling Gracie she must stay overnight in the hospital. Will she survive the night ?

Well, it looks as though we are in for several deaths before this show ends..Fofo,JL, Ped, and probably EZ and Maria. Fofo will probably die saving Fina from Pedro.
 

Dear Julia R:

I will have to go back and read the comments later -- 34 and counting so far! -- but I had to take a moment to thank you for this spectacular job! What a treat to read your beautifully constructed and oh so funny piece, complete with Carlos-worthy captions! This is one for the Recappers' Hall of Fame, my dear.

"Nervous and eager to get her someplace safe, he suggests they just get some Chinese take-out"

See, this is why I still have a soft spot for stone-cold killer Adolfo.

I can't let this one pass unremarked: Carlota once again lifted her homicidal homunculus right off his feet in her joy over his being named as a candidate for governor. These two actors are sooooooo good!

{Boston, November 2013

"How hard could it be?" Julia asks herself. "It's just a little summary of a Spanish soap once every two weeks. It'll take no time at all -- and it'll be good for my Spanish."

The veterans on the Patio smile indulgently at young Julia. They know that she will soon find herself confronting the Truth About Recapping; but they also know she has the chops for it...]

 

NovelaMaven:

"{Boston, November 2013

"How hard could it be?" Julia asks herself. "It's just a little summary of a Spanish soap once every two weeks. It'll take no time at all -- and it'll be good for my Spanish."

The veterans on the Patio smile indulgently at young Julia. They know that she will soon find herself confronting the Truth About Recapping; but they also know she has the chops for it...]"

Perfection! And how right you are!

Diana
 

Excellent, Julia... thanks for providing us with such a marvelously entertaining thorough recap with well-chosen photos complete with clever hilariously pointed captions:

"They know it's bad when they find her without make-up or blonde highlights"

Wickedly brilliant.

Well done.

What a wonderful surprise to see Rolu (Gancho) pop up. I rejoice along with Judy, Diana, and Vivi in seeing this old friend again. Vivi, the first thing that occurred to me is the possibility of a pairing of Fina with this new character since surely Adolfo's days are numbered and Refugio is already spoken for. How great is it to see all these former Gancho folks together again?

I must admit that I felt genuine pity for Graciela last night. Indeed, as Dimitrio pointed out, the Countess of Agua Negro (good one Dimitrio) is reaping what she sowed.

So JL is going to challenge Montserrat's moral fitness to be a mother? How about his fitness as a father? Has he forgotten his seven years in prison? I laughed out loud at his allusion to Montserrat's mom selling her daughter and suggesting that she would do the same... has he forgotten that he was one of the purchasers? What a creep.

Carlos
 

I second Diana's comments. :)

Fatima
 

“In bursts José-Luis still sporting his sport coat and bright T-shirt look, eager to see his little girl.  It's worth noting that she begins crying as soon as he takes her from Montserrat.”  Julia, indeed it was worth noting.  I was wondering how they got the baby to cry on cue like that.  Thanks for the wonderful recap.


“The Ruffles were fuzzed out in my area, I wondered what they were. I guess Time Warner didn't pay their Ruffles bill. She was sure eating them sparingly, too many and she wouldn't be able to get back into the leggings.” – Emarie, they were fuzzed for me too and I don’t have cable.  I have rabbit ears.  I could tell they were Ruffles when Montse offered them to Macario.  I was surprised to see Montse chomping  on those chips.  When I realized they were Ruffles I could understand.  I used to eat a whole large bag at atime (when I was MUCH younger).  I wouldn’t dare do that now and I rarely eat potato chips now. Still have a major weakness for tortilla chips though.  YUM!


“Montse should have made a deal with EZ: I'll take Gracie off your hands if you get MDA off my back.” – UA, I totally agree!


“Esmeralda's obsession with pole-dancing is ridiculous. One, it's not really about the dancing, but two, DO YOU KNOW HOW MANY OTHER THINGS YOU COULD DO IF YOU MISS DANCING SO MUCH?!! I mean she could have a studio to teach women how to do it. She could work at a gym and give one of those classes for getting in shape by pole-dancing. She could take actual dance lessons!” Anonymous 01:37:00 AM, I agree with you on that.   I think Esmeralda has not been creative at all regarding possible alternatives for dancing career.  I am really annoyed with her right now.  It’s been two years now.  I know Refugio can be a dud sometimes but he has proven to be a caring father and really does love her.  Esmeralda should give him a chance. *Sigh*

 

“So JL is going to challenge Montserrat's moral fitness to be a mother? How about his fitness as a father? Has he forgotten his seven years in prison? I laughed out loud at his allusion to Montserrat's mom selling her daughter and suggesting that she would do the same... has he forgotten that he was one of the purchasers? What a creep.”  Carlos, indeed he is!  Also, he forgot about his little alcohol problem.  He seems more sober two years later but still….

 

I was pleasantly surprised that Victor had his brain running on all cylinders last night.  I can’t believe he figured out that something was not quite right with JL in his response to Nadia saying Pedro is alive.

 

I am upset with Josephina.  She knows nothing about what Adolfo has been up to with his “business”.  Did she ever ask him what he does for a living or how he has money for all those darn flowers?  Did I miss something?  I know I am probably being too hard on Fina.  So let me point my finger at Adolfo… ADOLFO, SERIOUSLY!  You see what is starting to happen and you are going to continue down this road and put your precious Josefina in danger.  He is still greedy and selfish.  He wants what he wants despite the cost.  I am not happy!   If he loves Fina, he should want better for her than possible hit and runs and drive-by’s.

 

I am looking forward to Friday night’s episode.


Caryn

 

I like your analysis of Gaudy/Gracie Victoria. I would add, that I think Pedro may have been the one to set her over the edge when he told her that she chose money over her children and that made her directly responsible for Fabs killing herself. I know, taking the blame off himself for giving her the gun in the first place, but nonetheless, it seemed to make Gaudy go even more crazy then she already had been after the suicide.

Sad about Alex...lord if I was 20 years younger.........

Welcome TF!!!

Daisynay
 

On the flowers on last night's show:
"Are all these flowers on the show fake or what? Where do they get them all?"

I make a point to watch every flower arrangement on every TN. In almost all cases, the flowers are high-end artificial ones. But not in Robo. Perhaps there's an overabundance of live blooms near the filming of this TN, but last night I would wager every arrangement that Adolfo had for Fina were real flowers. Big, big budget $$ item. I cannot recall the flower carts that Victor sent; I think they were real even though, to me, they looked like a Home Depot nightmare suggestion of how to arrange their blooms in lattice work!
 

Flowers seem to be very important occasion markers in Mexico. A few years ago, I had a young woman student who I was from Mexico who told me that her sister-in-law brought her a bouquet of flowers to the airport when she was going to study English in the U.S. She had no idea what to do with them.
 

Maybe it's product placement for the flower producers of Mexico. I know roses and whatnot that they sell here come from South America.

Fruit is a big product placement and it works (at least on me). We're drinking more orange juice and always have a big basket of fresh fruit on the kitchen table now, and that's partly a result of seeing similar scenes on tv for the last few years.

Not taking any drugs though. Not even those ubiquitous "calmantes"!!!
 

Oh and dang it Vivi...knew I should have checked with you first about Alec Sirvent. But I already had this wonderful theory worked out. He was put on the show so that he and his true love (the actress playing Josefina) could be together more often and keep the marital flames burning bright.

Well....I don't have an accurate memory but it's a creative one!
 

Judy- Well, I didn't know about his updated marital status...which makes me both sad, and strangely hopeful. :)
 

Esme is being just as stubborn about dancing as Refugio is being about her NOT dancing. Their storyline is just plain ridiculous and boring filler and nobody cares. They need to end it right now, go their separate ways and get off the screen for good.
 

Julia, excellent job with your snark filled recap. I enjoyed every line, especially your screen cap comments! These three were my faves:

-Very savvy toddler who knows a Galán B when she sees one

-They know it's bad when they find her without make-up or blonde highlights

-Really secretly praying for the strength to torment her children a few more years

Gracie is really starting to pay now. I also give the actress kudos for her excellent performance. She had no qualms after leaving her daughter behind to rot in jail as she went on a shopping spree in Italy, but now that she is dead, I wonder how much is trauma from the suicide and how much is actual guilt for her part in Fab's undoing. I always felt she loved her kids, in her own strange way, but her love for money was always greater.

As for JL, all indicators are pointing to him being Pedro's accomplice. I didn't think it possible before, because I always felt that regardless what he was going through, there was still some sense of honor and civic duty left in him. I am now beginning to doubt it.

I am also annoyed with how he keeps behaving. No wonder no one wants to leave him alone with the kids. He should feel lucky that he gets 2 hours with them each day, especially after all the insults and life threats he has hurled at Ale and Montse. He is still a man out for revenge and it won't end well.

Speaking of the kids, someone else mentioned the other day how cute they all are. I agree! They have cast some real cuties, especially Angel and Romi, who I have the suspicion, is Ale's daughter.

Anonymous at 01:37, Julia R. JudyB, Diana and Caryn, I too am fed up with the Esme/Refugio storyline. I had hoped for a reconciliation but a whole year has passed and they are still fighting over her pole dancing job. It must be the only way of dancing that she knows, and isn't inspired to learn or do anything else, because I can't imagine that she enjoys drunk men oggling her every night. For all the good Angie wanted to do, I think this, along with the "surprise wedding" were some of her big mistakes. They felt obligated to go along with the wedding, and if she had not bought La Escondida, Esmeralda may have found something else she enjoyed doing. She would probably have been better off if Angie had bought her a dance studio or paid for her tuition to go back to school.

Maricruz



 

That Ruffles product placement was so odd, especially that it was Monse no less eating them (not Carlota), plus eating them at a higher end pastry and coffee shop. (I like the reduced fat Cape Cod kettle cooked chips myself).

At least the Tundra placement fits into an Aguazul macho ranch owner's profile.

BTW, I am so glad it was not the driverless Tundra that tried to run over Fina.

I do not get what Fofo sees in her. She is nice but very, very dull. He gets more action from that zorra Maria anyway so why not stick with the bad girl?
 

Julia: Thanks for the great recap.

From the ep before:

Niecie: I like the idea of Romy being named after Rosario and Dominga.

Please stop talking about the cat being in danger. It’s freakin’ me out, man ;)

From last night's ep:

Daisy: Amor Bravio moment. Loved it.

I’m not too fond of Esme right now. Her stubbornness about continuing to pole dance when she’s a wife and mother really gripes me. I’m wondering if she’s just waiting for Ref to finally say it’s OK if that’s what she wants to do and then she’ll stop.

Only way JL would get custody of Romy is if he bribed a judge.

Nanette (mama to two fur babies: Julie Eugene and Bass Eugene)
 

I cannot resist potato chips . (Hey, grew up on a potato farm) . Therefore , I never buy them. I especially like the ridged ones. I did buy dome for my son-in-law who loves them and enjoyed a few. You cannot eat just one. I think that the message being sent by having Mony eat them instead of Tia is that you can eat chips and still look like tiny Angelique. Sure.
 

Hi Everyone,
Julia what a great recap. Your captions for your screen caps were priceless!

Carlos, I was thinking the same thing about JL. Really? Montse is the unfit parent? I think the only thing you left out of your list was waving a gun around and threatening to kill the mother and step-father. Yeah. That's what we look for in a good parent!

Re the new guy for Esme (who will always be Rafi from AB to me) I don't want to start something or have anyone here mad at me for this opinion, but I'm on Refugio's side of this one. It's not like Esme wants to be a ballet dancer, or a broadway dancer (well, she kinda is dancing in a "BROAD way") performer, or, as some have mentioned wants to teach pole dancing as a fitness class. No, instead she is dancing for men only, in a way specifically meant to entice/titillate and she is contributing, one might say-- including me-- to the objectification of women. So while I'm all for a woman who works if she chooses, and I was actually a professional ballet dancer myself, I kinda don't approve or agree with Esme on this one.

I was glad that Tia C finally told the kids that Gaudy, who has been nothing but bitchy to Carlotta this entire TN is their responsibility. Hire a nurse! Although that nurse is going to be expensive as she'll surely require hazard pay!

Susanlynn I'm with you that Adolfo dies saving Josefina from Peddy. He's too likeable to go down in too hateful a way. However, I do sometimes wonder if he goes down in front of Josefina at the hand of Dim as Dim uncovers him as the Alacran. Sad for Adolfo, but I see it as a real possibility.

Thanks all!
Rebecca
 

Angelique has been an official Ruffles spokesperson for a few years, so this was more money in the bank for her. Here's one of her commercials that airs in Mex: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLgp61L8zqI
 

Rebecca- I have always not agreed with Esme on the pole dancing thing. When I read in the last recap that she was coming home at 5am, I was shaking my head. There are so many other types of dancing she could be doing and making a career out of.
 

Vivi in DC I THINK it was your comment the other day that inspired me to comment. I think you said you were opposed but you maybe said that you were dropping your feminism to say you didn't support her dancing. I think the type of dancing she is choosing brings out the feminist in us and has us begging her to quit!
 

Rebecca- Yep, it was me. I think the writers are trying to paint this in a feminist/women's lib light-- that Esme should have the right to do this if she chooses. It's a bit bogus to me since what she is fighting for is the right to be sexually objectified. I know many would say that's her right. Sure. It is. But she really think she's setting a good example about how men should treat women for her son?
 

Missed a word: Does she really think she's setting a good example...
 

Male writers?
 

Count me among those questioning Esme's whole "you aren't respecting my choices" thing. Not a fan of Refugio, but her reasoning bothers me too. I do remember one bone-headed comment he made about she should stay at home and be a mother (implying that's what women should do once they have kids), so I'm wondering how much of this is her digging in her heels to be doing ANY kind of work, period.
However, If she feels like she HAS to do this to be fulfilled, then how much is enjoying the attention it brings versus just wanting to be independent and working. That's why these two drive me crazy--I really can't find a side to agree with really.

And anyone else get really steamed when they argue in these scenes with the little ones right there. Sorry, but they are too small to fully understand and it drives me batty personally.

Daisynjay
 

Wow Viv...you know everything. That Ruffles ad is a riot. I like the spoof that it's some kind of erotic wild sensation and that eating them will give you a just-can't-quit-body like Angelique's. If that would work, I'd be a lifetime subscriber to their über-salted crap. Very funny ad though, and I liked the song too.
 

Julia R - Lovely opening on the year gone by. Terrific recap and pics. My favorite: Stunned by the well-manicured hand o' Montserrat

JL is annoying the hell out of me, but I can't believe he'd go along with putting scorpions in an innocent blind woman's bed. If he's in league with Pedro, wouldn't he at least pretend to be shocked when Nadia claimed Pedro is alive? I sure hope it’s somebody else helping Pedro.

Even though Graciela's been a bad bad bad mother, Dim and Monse need to supervise her care. Those are the breaks. Monse's excuse for not staying overnight at the hospital was lame cause she's got a round-the-clock babysitter in Rosario.

I'm holding with the theory that Esme is just testing Refugio. She's too smart - how about the way she told JL to stuff it about Monse and move on? - to want to keep shaking it before idiots.
 

The use of child actors is a thorny one. We had a "comedy" a few years ago, that featured a young girl being kidnapped and subjected to all kinds of horrors, including being trapped in a burning building. And of course countless screaming arguments. I can remember the blog line debating whether she would grow up seriously traumatized.
 

I don't worry so much for the child actors old enough to know it's make believe. It's the babies/toddlers that I worry about. I mentioned the other day, that baby Angel was looking intently back and forth at Esme and Ref when they were arguing after Monse gave birth. He seemed calm, but I wondered if his own anxiety levels didn't go up watching that scene.
 

I forgot to say that I think the whole JL is Peddys assistant is a smoke screen from the writers. If they make him into that much of a villain I will be shocked. He's being an a$$ but that would be a total departure from who he is/was at his core.
R
 

I remember a very pregnant actress in a US soap who's character had a knockdown drag out shouting and shoving match with another woman character and wondered how her baby would react to that. They don't know it's make believe.

JL works with the marina. Maybe he was around when there were discussions that Pedro could be alive and he's on the "alive" side of the debate.

Esme and Ref have been separated for two years. I think that's very weird. It's like they're stuck in a time warp.
 

I'm amazed at Pedro's patience. I can't imagine why he has waited so long to begin his vengeance tour. I'm also surprised that, with the exception of Josefina, he hasn't chosen (yet) to go after that most precious to his perceived enemies... Laurito, Victoria, and Carlota (or maybe Carlota's cat... don't get too comfortable Nanette).

Carlos
 

Julia, thanks for your great recap, strong pic, and hilarious captions.

Welcome TF!! Please share more.
 

Carlos: "vengeance tour" and "he hasn't chosen (yet) to go after that most precious to his perceived enemies... Laurito, Victoria, and Carlota (or maybe Carlota's cat... don't get too comfortable Nanette)".

Oh my. I'm still laughing. Thanks Carlos. That was great.

Diana

 

If Carlotas cat wasnt sold and married yet ,but sadly Gaudy wont be receiving money from this one! And sincerely all prayers to the todays tragedy in Malaysia ,where MH17 crashed/got trashed down by missiles,whatever happened all my prayers go to the innocent victims and their suffering families.Who ever is responsible,Le hace falta Jesus!
 

More of AB's Ruffles commercials:

As a spy:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUhvOq2tKXY

With William Levy:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ryQXWtajoY
 

Wow..fun ads. Is the "Haz Ejercicio" to make up for the fact that they're luring you to eat crap? Anyway, have to love the humor and creativity of the ads. Good stuff.
 

Julia, I am in awe of you, girl you do good work! I loved, loved the recap, especially the line about Romi knowing galan B when she sees one. I hate JL, he was acting like a jerk, although last night I used a word that was harsher than that. How can he question Montse's ability to parent when he HAS killed people? Hello, earth to JL!

About Graciela, I think she does feel pain about Fabiolas death, I don't think she thought things would end up this badly, its one thing to be responsible for someone being in jail, but it's a whole nother thing to have someone kill themselves in front of you and to KNOW that you are 100% responsible for that.

I get why Esme is giving Refugio such a hard time, this man claims to love her but then tells her that he's ashamed of what she does? Naw homie, she's better off without you!

The Ruffles! We could not figure out what chips she was eating because they got blurred,my sister and I joked that it looked like a love scene was taking place,lol.
 

I have a sudden craving for Queso flavored Ruffles now...with a squeeze of lemon and a few drops of Valentina salsa picante...yum :-P

Thanks for the links to the commercials Vivi and Anon@ 03:23:00!

By the way, welcome TF!

Maricruz
 

Carlos: you meany!

Re: the chips. I don't know why they even bothered to blur the name at first, when you could see, quite clearly, that it was a bag of Ruffles when she handed them to Mac.

Eli: I think that Esme and Ref are not compatible enough to stay together. If, after two years, they can't resolve this. There might be some residual anger and hurt on Esme's part from when Ref had his crush on Monica. I still think that she shouldn't be pole dancing, but Ref might try a different tack than to tell her that he's ashamed.
 

Maricruz:

They really make Queso flavored Ruffles. OMG, I think I'll to heaven and back! I'm addicted to cheese and just finished a bag of Ruffles in two days! So ironic they turned up in LQLVMR
 

Thank you Julia for this fabulous recap! I didn't get to see the first 15 minutes of this episode and you filled it in for me perfectly.

It seemed to me that Dim and Montse were more than a little aggrieved that Carlota asked them to take responsibility for Gracie. I think Montse actually rolled her eyes at one point. It wasn't until Carlota pointed out that she isn't even related to Gracie that they (reluctantly) agreed to do... something. If it's that much of a problem for them they should just put Gracie in a manicomio, it's where she belongs anyway.

Esme and Refugio are just boring filler at this point. There is only one reason I can see why Esme still insists on dancing. It's not the dancing that fulfills her, it's all the attention from men. Maybe being the center of that kind of attention is intoxicating and fulfills her ego.

I don't think JL is in league with Pedro, I think it's EZ. EZ has much more to lose so keeping Pedro alive and continuing to work with him makes sense. Remember, EZ is still "running the business". He also has that immunity agreement from Admiral Robledo locked in his safe. When the drug business finally gets busted, EZ can point to Pedro as the Don and say he was still working both sides to bring Pedro down.


 

Maricruz: Flaco brought back bottles of Chapala sauce from Mexico. Yum!!! I finished the bottle he gave me in less than a week. He quite nicely gave me another one, which I'm trying REALLY hard not to use up too fast.
 

I forgot to add, if Pedro is getting vengeance on all those who crossed him, why hasn't Ale received any scorpions? Wasn't Ale the one Pedro ultimately wanted to take revenge upon?
 

Esme swings around a pole for the titillation of men. Now it's hypocritical of Refugio considering he used to watch her do this, and his caveman attitude of "you need to stay home and be a mother" is terrible, but he's not off-base for not being proud that she does this for a living.

 

Julia Rold:

Well, I am just now returning to the Patio after an absence of a week. I had to leave town and it's tough to keep up with TN's on the road.

I know I am not original in voting this your best quip of the night:

"Very savvy toddler who knows a Galán B when she sees one".

You made me laugh out loud.

I have the night off tonight so I guess I will use the time to cathch up on the last four capitulos.

Novela Maven:

I smiled at your gentle noodging of our Julia. It is very hard to anticipate the work recapping an hour-long telenovela will take.

Furthermore, when these shows are over-extended they seem to lose a great deal of energy, and as a recapper, I often feel the need to inject some enthusiasm into my recap to keep interest flowing toward the story. 190 episodes is just too long though and, with you, I congratulate our Julia Rold on her first recapping season. You caught a doozy, Julia! This is the longest show I have ever recapped.

I so enjoyed reading this beautifully crafted recap, Julia. It is a pleasure to be on a recapping Team with you.

Off to read email and catch up on life a bit...

Elna June
 

Hi Everyone--Wow! I'm so thrilled by your kind comments.

Diana: You are such a generous reader and always have such smart and insightful comments. I'm so glad you read and liked the recap. ITA about Adolfo. He is selfish but breaks my heart, too.

Vivi: So happy you enjoyed the recap this morning. And thanks for more of the low-down on the real life of the cute busker guy.

Susanlynn: Thanks for reading and so happy the recap was helpful to you. Hope you had fun with your girls at the amusement park! Your comment about Gracie looking like María was very interesting to me.

NovelaMaven: Your praise always means so much to me since I love your work. I was particularly touched and very amused by the time you took to imagine and recreate the conversation I had with myself when I first started recapping. You were very accurate. I have learned a lot about the greater Truth of Recapping, and, yes, it does take far more time than I could have imagined. But it's fun and a pleasure--especially when I read your comments.

Carlos: Knowing that you thought something I wrote was funny makes my day! Your own comments are always so funny and make me laugh, so I am proud to think I could make you laugh in return. I also liked your comment about J-L conveniently forgetting that he was one of the many purchasers of what Gracie was selling. As I recall, he even approached her.

Caryn: Thank for reading and for your long and thoughtful comment. ITA again on Esme and Refugio. It seems to have been forgotten that she is the OWNER of La Escondida. Remember when she kept talking about how she was going to make it all classy? Shouldn't running a business be taking more of her time?

Anonymous 11:45: Thanks for reading and letting us know about the flowers. Like you, I've been very impressed with the flower budget for this show.

Maricruz: Thank you for your kind a specific comments about lines you liked. I'm always keen to know what people especially enjoyed in any recap I write. I know what you mean about the indicators for J-L helping Pedro but I really hope this is a bluff on the part of the writers.

Oxnard Huero: Thanks for reading and ITA on the Cape Cod Kettle Chips.

Nanette: Thanks for reading! I am now worrying about the cat, too. That was a really beautiful cat, and I hope it appears again in some garden scene soon.

Rebecca: Thanks so much. Glad you liked the captions. Thanks for reminding me, too, that the busker guy was Rafi in AB! I completely forgot and couldn't place him.

Niecie in MD: Thanks for reading, and I'm glad you liked the opening. Like you, I have a really hard time seeing J-L as being in league with Pedro. I know J-L is really losing himself, but I hope not that much.

Karen: Thanks so much for reading and for liking the recap. I'm so happy you found it funny. I love to think of you laughing at anything I wrote.

Eli: I always love reading your recaps, so I am very grateful for and honored by your praise! Glad I cleared up the potato chip mystery for you and your sister!

I hope I responded to everyone who commented since my first round of response this morning. Please pardon me if I didn't and I will keep coming back and checking in. Thanks to all for reading and commenting!
 

Nanette, I feel your pain. When it comes to getting authentic Mexican products here in Miami, its tough. I used to do the same when I brought sauce or food from Mexico or Los Angeles, eat little at a time to make it last. Then I discovered Mexgrocer.com and starting getting my salsas and other goodies from there. Victoria, the Queso Ruffles are awesome. They sell them on this website too. :-)

As for the comments on Esme and Refugio, two years is a long time to be going back and forth, and while I see that Esme wants to do what makes her happy, I don't think she has thought it through to when Angel starts going to school and kids start making fun of him because his mom is the town stripper. Kids can be mean, no matter how she tries to make him proud. And regardless of the fact that Refugio doesn't like her job, I find it commendable that he goes each night to take care of his little boy so that she can go work. While I would have liked to see them back together, maybe its time for each to move their separate ways. Esme with the cute street performer and Refugio and Virginia? (I want Dim and Fina to end up together).

Maricruz
 

XintPeruvian: I missed you the last round since we must have been typing comments at the same time. Thanks so much and glad you enjoyed the recap. That's a great point about Alejandro not receiving scorpions. I can only wonder if Pedro has something even worse planned for him.

Elna June: So happy to have you back and thanks for your kind comments. Praise from you means a lot since I love your recaps so much. Thanks for letting me know that this has been a long show--I have nothing else to compare it to and am just going with it at this point. I still enjoy doing the recaps but overall I am really tired of the show. I am assuming that after this I'll just have one more. I just hope they won't add extra episodes at this point!
 

Vivi in DC and Anon 03:23: Meant to say thanks, too, to both of you for the extra information about Angelique (and others!) and Ruffles. Sounds like Ruffles has a big advertising budget in Mexico.
 

Julia

Beautifully done. I had missed several details last night.

Thank you so much.
Agree with the consensus re Esmeralda's dancing.

Agree with Caryn about Adolfo,

And also the comment about Josefina (sorry, don't have time to look back) not knowing anything about Adolfo's business. She was supposed to go find herself, and since she returned, she's just showing herself to be overly susceptible and naive. She had her doubts about A. but she didn't follow through with them.

She had many clues about Adolfo and for want of a few flowers, she has ignored them. Women are generally more savvy in this day
and age - especially where a guy like Adolfo is concerned.

No need to respond to this little comment. I appreciate the time you took for everyone to do such a fine recap.

 

Elna June

I agree with you that this novela is too long. The writers should be acknowledged though in their ability to keep the viewer entertained under the insane pressure of the stupid director and Uni to extend this novela
 

Victoria- It's not Uni that's extending this, it's Televisa in Mexico. But I hear ya about this tn being too long. We've had so many time jumps that some more of these folks, other than Padre, Macario, and EZ, should have gray hair by now!
 

Maricruz

Thanks for the tip te the Queso Ruffles. I'll have to order a dozen at a time!
 

Vivi

Your comment made me laugh so hard!
 

Julie---I'm in awe of your recap.
This Robo team just gets better and better---WOW!!! Snark all the way through, great screen shots with even greater screen captions. It just doesn't get better. 82 comments so far and all of your great lines have already been mentioned but I really did chuckle when you said that people in the hospital would have to settle for mylar balloons
because all of Agua Azul's flowers have been sold out. There sure were a lot of flowers in the mirage proposal scene last night.

Ruffles chips---several comments-
fuzzed out and not fuzzed out. I watch on Univision regular tv, no cable or satellite. When the chips were first shown, the brand name was fuzzed out but later on in the scene, the name Ruffles was clearly visible. I was thinking, was a check received half way through the screen shot?

Judy B---Victoria Gomez---Jarifa
Great comments and observations on Graciela.

OK women's libbers---YES!!! Esmeralda should be able to do or pursue whatever job that she wants to. Freedom for all Right?
However, I would not want my wife
slithering and gyrating around a bunch of drunks and who knows what all else--sadists, rapists, perverts etc. Dance as exercise?
Good, so why not try teaching a dance class. That has been mentioned and it sounds good to me
I don't know how big Agua Azul is but there must be some business there. What are the requirements in Mexico? Do you need a license to give dance lessons? That to me seems like a much better way to go
You would be fulfilling your desire and on a much safer level.

The scorpions in the bed made me cringe. That would have been terrible if Victor hadn't come in when he did. I hated that scene.
Scorpions in your bed OMG!!!
the gringo

right?


 

Esme gave up dancing for Refugio once and she seemed to enjoy being the owner and running the place. If Refugio hadn't been a stupid jerk and had made her feel beautiful and desirable during her pregnancy, I believe she would now be a happy wife and mother, balancing her home, husband, baby, and business just fine. Instead, he totally killed her self-esteem during her pregnancy, making her feel fat and ugly, and had the nerve to set his eyes on another woman. No wonder she is so determined to be the center of male attention (poor choice though that may be) now. I truly believe that she'll soon realize that her son will be better off with a business owner mother than with a pole-dancing mommy, but by then it will be too late for the Fool. How dare he yell at her and say she should be a "normal" woman and stay home to cook and clean?
 

And yes, I completely forgot to mention that I don't get how Fina has been with Adolfo this long and hasn't asked what exactly he does for a living. Or at least, we've been given no scene showing us this. He was a bum with seemingly no schooling and no money. How is he so well-off now? If she has asked him, then the writers should have shown as that scene.
 

Elna June---Rebelde was 440 episodes.

Oh I forget to mention that I did take note that baby Romina started to cry as soon as JL picked her up. Smart baby.
the gringo
 

I think the scorpions are meant to intimidate their recepients. Ale would just get mad and then do something about it. I can see him sending his family out of town to keep them safe (I know in TN Land that won't happen). I give credit to Ale for being, for the most part, a brave hombre.
 

Flaco just told me a story about the time he got stung by a scorpion. Freaky!
 

Julia, I didn't know this was your first time recapping! You are doing a marvelous job! My first recapping experience was on Por Siempre Mi Amor. Even though Uni sliced and diced PSMA down to under 100 episodes I know what you mean about being tired of the show. At least this TN has some characters that have shown growth. During PSMA I kept wondering how much dumber the writers could make Isabel. Waay dumber than I ever imagined...

Gringo, yes the scorpions in the bed scene freaked me out too! I don't know why, but for some reason I thought scorpions were some kind of reptile and not an insect. Someone mentioned yesterday that scorpions can get to the size of lobsters?! Good grief. I think I could outrun Usain Bolt if I came upon something like that.


 

Fina seems pretty smart to me. She's the only woman in this tn who's made a man work for two years straight to win her (no jealousy fits; rages; imprisonment; bouts of disrespect; etc.), and she still hasn't even told the man that she loves him. Adolfo comes from a wealthy family. It's not hard to believe that in the 7 years she was away, he pulled himself together and got his business off the ground. It's just as vague as all the other business everyone else does in this tn run/own. Do we even know what they grow on Ale's hacienda? In any case, having just watched the proposal scene, Fina never says "I love you." Obviously, her instincts are on track, even if she can't imagine that Adolfo is an assassin and narco enforcer-- and really, who would possibly imagine that of Adolfito?!
 

xlntperuvian: About the lack of scorpions ,it might be that Pedro has something bigger planned for Ale.Besides Pedro has proven to be an emotional sadist,he is saving Ale for the last,he would first make his friends suffer and then when Ale is all alone,kill him.
 

I am a lurker! I love this site! I've been lurking since Teresa. Great to know others analyze novelas too! I have the same painting in my house as in Maria's apartment. I saw it and freaked! I paused the show and shouted for my husband and 6yr old to come look. They were not impressed! You guys would have giggled and made snarky comments!
Thanks for the great recaps!
 

My best guess is that Pedro's plan for Alejandro is to pay him back in kind: Do unto him as he thinks Alejandro did to him 20+ years ago.

Of course he won't succeed.

He will very likely try to do in Monserrat and the children first. Or make Alejandro think so. That is how he operates.
 

I wonder,does Pedro know that it was actually Benjamin driving,not Ale? I bet that even if he knew ,the grudge would still be there but the only one responsible for his accident is only himself,why did he drive at full speed,that only showcases his extreme selfish and narcisstic behaviour was already present before the accident even occured.
 

I don't think he knows that Benjamin drove the car. Thus far only EZ knows that, but he didn't share that with MDA.

When Police Chief Loreto brought the report in an early episode, Alejandro was listed as the driver. It happened when he was 15, too young to take any legal consequences. However, the forensic report stated that he was not at fault and that the accident was inevitable because the cyclist was going at maximum speed.

Pedro is either ignoring that or believing that Benjamin's dinero changed that element of the report.
 

Hi Novelas y Toronjas,

So glad to know that you have been following the site and are enjoying the recaps! It's great that you finally made a comment. You are welcome anytime.

That's funny about your painting! My family doesn't appreciate my fascination with TNs, either, so I understand completely how you felt. But you will find much support here on Caray Caray!
 

Wow..The actress playing PBN was brave to pull back the sheet covering all those scorpions...yikes.
 

Julia, loved every word. You are sure talented.

Eli, thanks sssooo much for covering for me Tuesday.

I love this site and all the discussions/analyzing that we do here.
 

Those scorpions gave me the heebie jeebies. I would NOT have been able to do that scene.
 

OT..Has anyone heard of The Gerson Institue of Mexico My friend's daughter-in-law has colon cancer and wants to go there for treatment. It is in a coastal town. She is also considering a hospital in Texas.
 

Vivi...And Fina was so calm when she removed that Nadiams wedding bouquet from the box with the scorpion in it. Perhaps these actresses are familiar with scorpions and not afraid of them as I would be...yech..blech.
 

First I would like to say this was one of the best recaps I have ever read. I have only commented one other time, and that was months ago.
My negative comment has nothing to do with the recap itself, but rather some of the comments that have been made.
I have had the opportunity to be a working Mom as well as a stay-at-home Mother later in my life. There is nothing more rewarding or challenging than raising the children you chose to bring into this world. I believe if women choose to start families, they should stay home and make that their career. That being said, I am confused as to why so many "feminist" women pick on the career choice of other women? What does it matter if Esmerelda is a stripper? It is her choice. Isn't that what TRUE feminism should be about? A woman should be able to stay at home with her children, and be commended. A woman should be able to work in the office and leave her children with daycare centers all day if she chooses to do so. A woman should also be able to be a stripper if she CHOOSES to do so. I just wish every woman, every Mother, would get the respect she deserves for choosing to do what she loves to do, whether we agree with it or not. Feminism should not be about supporting women in their choices only when we agree with them. Okay, I am done. I am sure I have said enough to turn many of you off. But it had to be said.
 

About the scorpions,the actors receive special training ,dealing with scorpions before the crew begins shooting so that they prevent any potential risk of anyone getting hurt at the filming or even resulting deaths...And i always wondered,how do actors miraculosly survive explosions in car and tongue cuts? One thing i also do not understand is when the actors fall from a high building ,how are they able to survive that?
 

Countx- It's not getting hurt that we're talking about (stunt people and animal wranglers are great), it's about not being too freaked out to be in the same frame/shot/room as all those things, because most of us would be too skeeved out to do it.
 

Anon 11:51- Welcome! Why would we see your comment as negative? We've already had differing points of view on the whole Esme pole dance thing, so your additional voice is welcome. Please comment more often!
 

No, feminism is about liberation. Third wave feminism has become about meaningless empowerment. Not all choices are feminist. Women can choose to work in porn, effectively supporting an industry that exploits women, especially women of color, promotes rape, fetishizes minority women, sexualizes children, and a whole host of other issues. Choices aren't made in a vacuum. One can go around all day long about how taking clothes off for the pleasure of men is "about me and because I like it" when we grow up in a society that objectifies women and sends subtle and unsubtle messages about where a woman's value lies. You cannot get away from how choices are influenced by living in a patriarchal society and whether the actions you take serve to further liberation of women.
Now you don't have to live your life with every action you take being feminist, but you also don't get to claim it as feminist when it's absolutely not.
Feminism isn't the simplistic line about "empowerment" that is peddled by Cosmo, TV shows like Sex and the City, and cosmetics companies, and which is supported by men, because if you can give a crumb that feels like more than it is, it serves to distract from how hungry you actually are.

I usually try to not get into this type of discussion, because it's a far more complex topic than what discussions here deal with, but since it was specifically brought up in the previous comment, I had to answer.
 

As i said ,they receive some sort of training,casting aside fear too,maybe they grow some scorpions/other wild animals at home so they are more used to the situations as ordinary people,we might never know.Actors are used to filming wild scenes such as entering into houses that will explode,walking on collapsing bridges or into a fire or working in extreme environments such as Antartica or in deserts.
 

Gloria A. Thanks so much! I always love reading your recaps, too, so I am honored by your praise. Can't wait to read your next one!

Floridia: I missed your comment earlier and wanted to say thanks for reading and for enjoying the recap. I know you said it wasn't necessary to respond, but I really wanted to because I appreciate your time as a reader.

Gringo: So glad you laughed at the Mylar balloon line. It takes some time for me to come up with the captions, but that one came easily for some reason.

Anon at 11:51: Thanks for your very generous praise! It really means a lot to me. And I am happy you felt inspired to share your ideas and thoughts about this issue.

Anon at 12:30: Thanks to you, too, for sharing. I like the way you articulated the important difference between 'empowerment' and 'liberation'

Susanlynn: I haven't heard of the Institute you mentioned in Mexico, but I hope someone else will respond if she/he has.

I hope I responded to everyone! If I forgot you for some reason, let me know!

Best, Julia R.
 

Susanlynn: Flaco says it's in Tijuana.
 

According to the American Cancer Society, Gerson therapy is a form of alternative cancer treatment involving coffee enemas, supplements, juicing, and a special diet that is claimed to cleanse the body, boost the immune system and stimulate metabolism. Available scientific evidence doesn't support claims that the therapy is effective in treating cancer and the principles behind it are not widely accepted by the scientific and medical communities. It is not approved for use in the United States. The Gerson Institute is a nonprofit organization based in San Diego, but has its two treatment centers in Mexico and Hungary. Hope this helps.
 

Regarding the Gerson Institute, a year or two ago one of the major network s did s special on these "so called" cancer clinics in Mexico and the desperate people that go there for treatment. The network showed how these clinics exploit the desperation of cancer patients and families. They concluded that these so called "alternative" clinics are a scam.
So please beware.
Let me recommend Duke University Hospital in NC. They treated two good friends of mine with excellent results.
 

Thanks So MUCH for the feedback on my question. My friend's daughter is indeed desperate having undergone surgery at a famous NYC hospital which has now changed the goal from cancer free to simply stopping the spread. Victoria, I especially appreciative the information that you provided about the TV documentary. My friend would prefer that she a hospital she found in Texas, but her daughter-in -law is pushing for this place....$5500.00 a week with three weeks recommended. Friends and I are skeptical.
 

Julia,
Thanks for the amazing recap! I'm always impressed when the recappers include pictures of the show since I have no idea how you do it. That said, all the recappers are awesome; I just love the snark and wit that you all insert for each episode description. Your insights in the show keep me involved as the program drags on for more episodes than are needed.

Returning to the Josefina / Adolfo proposal, I really wish that she had just refused him. I don't believe he sincerely loves her; he simply wants somebody to save him from the evil he has committed. I also don't understand how Josefina can forgive him for all the awful things he did to her with the fake marriage to Dimitrio. If I were her, I would have never forgiven him (or Dimitrio for that matter). Adolfo is a deceitful murderer, and Josefina is an idiot for trusting him.

On the other hand, and I'm confident that people will disagree with me, but I feel like Ezekiel, who is also a deceitful murderer, can be redeemed. I don't know why, but, despite everything he has done, I still like him. He cheated on Carlota, lied to her and forced her sick sister-in-law from the house, but I think he loves her in his twisted, ambitious way. He and Carlota are so cute together.

Okay, so maybe Ezekiel has hoodwinked me too.

Thanks again!
 

Dear Tracy H,

Thanks so much for your comment and so happy you like all the recaps. I also enjoy EZ and Carlotta together.

The screen shots are pretty easy to make, but I'm glad you are impressed! On my computer, you just hit COMMAND, SHIFT, and then the number 4, and then you get a little cross thing which allows you to select a section of a photo or clip. Usually, I try to watch the episode on line, so I can pause and make the shot.

Thanks again and best, Julia R.
 

In the future, if recapper on any show needs someone to fill in for them, I am usually available. Just give a couple of hours notice. I especially like doing the dramas.
 

Darn! My comment disappeared! Thanks for the recap Julia! Can you expound on the photos? Does it work on YouTube?
 

Tracy H.- Of all the women in this tn, including Monse, Fina has been the one where men have had to work the hardest to get her to forgive and forget. She's the only one to walk away from one man who did her wrong (Dim), until Esme recently, and the only one to make a man work this hard to win her over.

Monse, Nadia, Carlota, Amelia-- all stuck with men who did terrible things to them or to others, or forgave those things very easily, or let themselves be hoowinked even when they were faced with evidence the man was doing wrong. No one has made any accusations about Adolfo-- not even those who have been in Agua Azul all these years while Fina was away. Obviously, the Scorpion was very good about covering his tracks.
 

Hi Cynderalla!

Thanks for reading the recap! And that's really great that you're available to sub, too.

Yes, I often make screenshots from YouTube. I hit COMMAND-SHIFT-4 and the cross thing appears and I get the crop ready using the touchpad while the clip is running on YouTube. This way you can avoid that arrow that shows over the clip when the clip is paused or not running. It means I have to watch in advance and then know when I want the screenshot, but I like to watch in advance anyway before do a recap when I can.

After you make the screen shot, it is automatically saved, usually to the desk top. You should see it there waiting for you once you try one.

The COMMAND-SHIFT-4 is how you do a screenshot on a Mac. If you have a PC, just do a Google search for how to make a screenshot on a PC, and you should be able to find the commands. There's probably even a tutorial you can watch on YouTube if you do a search there.

It's not hard and just takes a little bit of practice once you know the right command. You will be a pro in no time!

Hope that helps! Good luck!
Best,
Julia R.
 

Vivi in DC. - you bring up a lot of interesting points.

Josefina does seem more cautious about her relationship than the other women do with theirs. Considering all the time jumps, she has also made Adolfo wait a really long time before she agreed to marry him. Like you said, during this time, he hasn't slipped in his Scorpion persona - at least to where Josefina could detect his involvement. Also, Josefina did have a 7-year self-discovery tour that helped her become stronger and more self-reliant than the other women. Perhaps her reluctance to marry Adolfo stems from the fact that she doesn't want to give up her independence.

Still, I wish she would drop him before she gets hurt.
 

How does it empower women to have their children raised by daycare centers and strangers? How does it empower women to separate them from their children? You are a fake feminist. A true feminist would support a woman's career choice of staying home and raising her children just as she would support a woman who wanted to become a stripper. Being a stripper allows Esmerelda to live her passion and love of dancing as well as pay her own bills. Please start supporting all career choices women make. Fake feminists! This world needs more real feminists that truly care about choice. I hope Esmerelda does what makes her happy.
 

Cancer Treatment of America is supposed to be really good. The take traditional medicine, holistic and nutrition aproach. There are a couple, one in Alberquerque.
 





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