Caray, Caray!

MIRADA #81 PILLSBURY DOUGHBOY IS BAPTIZED AND ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE

Part 1

Well we knew the party was going to tumultuous and it was. Luis got himself invited, scared the bejesus out of Toribio; and Beto and Bazán had another antler-bash going when the former showed up to talk to Margarito. There was a lot of bad behavior on the part of our menfolk, but Baby Rafa was a dream. In fact he appeared to be sedated for much of the time. But no matter. It will all work out by the Gran Final.

The episode, though, started off rather low-key. Erick, who apparently hadn't moved from the couch for days, roused himself to shower after he learned Margarito was going to get some bad medical news. Great opportunity to make hay with Yola, as the understanding and supportive boyfriend. Glad to know something motivates this slug to shake a leg.

And Lucreepy is still hard at work manipulating Doting Dad to agree to perform plastic surgery on her disfigured and suffering patient. It wasn't very hard. She played up his nobility at saving someone's life in a fire; then professed amazement that Dad
thinks he might be able to help. He's not fooled. He knew what she wanted, but he's already admitted he's putty in her hands, so yeah...he's on board. Love you daddy-poo!

Another doting parent, Hilda (is there a theme here?) is reassuring Beto that Vanessita doesn't need to go to the hospital. She has sent her squabbling newlyweds off to a spa and it's all going to be lovely, just you wait and see!

So now we're outside the church and Prudencia has gifted the baby with a beautiful cross on a delicate chain, while Damiana has added a medal of San Rafael. All quite lovely until don Luis muscles in with a loud "I've got a car full of presents. Can I stop by and deliver them?" Marina hesitates. A long time. So Prudencia gently pressures and sure enough, she caves. Yes, he can stop by. Oh boy, Viewerville is expecting fireworks and we're not disappointed. To wrap up this scene, we see the execrable Doc Mask, still in rank hoodie and red track shoes, oozing our behind the Amoebas, lamenting that he can't get close to Marina like they can.

Luis arrives, scowls behind his dark glasses at the gala vecindad and pronounces it "bien foclorico". Yola and Erasmo watch him in amazement as he temporarily seems to be fitting in quite nicely at the gathering. But then when he hoists in a huge bike (which the kid might be able to ride in 6 years) he sweeps the other gaily wrapped presents off the table to deposit HIS present right on top. This is a toddler in a giant, intimidating body.

Bazán spots Beto arriving to talk to Margarito and goes into Doberman mode. Growling, snapping, glaring, snarling, teeth-baring. I'm only exaggerating a little bit. It's almost funny. Luis looks at Beto like "Why don't you bust him one?" But Beto simply glares back and slinks in to congratulate Marina on how much the baby looks like her.
 

MIRADA #81 PILLSBURY DOUGHBOY GETS BAPTIZED AND ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE

Part 2

Luis challenges Bazán, while calling Beto "mi hijo". I'm not your son, snaps Beto. But Luis plows on. Let's ask Marina how she feels about your being here. Lino thinks he should step in and pour oil on troubled waters but Anita advises him not to. They work out her pique over his calling out Vane's name. Well that was easy. Not so easy is the rift with Marina. She's glaring at Beto and he's just looking sad and defeated. Marg steps in, invite Beto to his home to talk about the prognosis and the tension temporarily abates. But Marina makes it clear though that once he's talked with the capataz he needs to vamoose.

Giant Toddler Luis continues to lurch around, grabbing the baby (who appears limp as a rag doll)and smooching the little fella. Prudencia tries to calm him down, reminding him the little guy is sleepy but he ignores her.

The scene switches to the spa. Our Big Ed is still fashioned-challenged, sporting a mismatched shirt and pair of shorts. Vane is shoving him away with some feeble "Don't touch me...I can't stand you...I'd rather be in the hospital." He's unfazed and clueless. Thinks they should try the chocolate massage. Well, hell, he thinks they should try everything! Still bleating pitifully, she follows along. Chocolate massage coming up!

Back to the vecindad. Toribio, all bathed and prettied up with combed hair, no hat and a nice denim shirt, has emerged from his lair only to find don Luis, large and in charge as always, looming in the corridor. Torb immediately hides behind a potted plant. But Luis spots him and the stare down begins.
 

MIRADA #81 PILLSBURY DOUGHBOY GETS BAPTIZED AND ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE

Part 3

Well here we've been stressing about cancer or a liver transplant and it just turns out that Margarito needs surgery on his knee. Maybe surgery on both knees. And don Luis will pay for it. Still, he's concerned. For one thing he doesn't like going under the knife. And he's afraid it will mean the end of his ability to do his work on the ranch. Beto agrees that this might be the case.

At this point Baby Rafa starts to get a little more animated. And so does the party.
Toribio and Luis are still sharing deer in the headlights looks and then Toribio runs away shouting the Devil is here! the devil is here! Creepy music plays as Luis, looking menacing indeed, follows him and plants himself, stance wide over Toribio, cowering under a glass table. Luis bangs on the table twice and shouts "Aren't you going to say 'hello'? Would you? Man, I'd head for the highlands.

And then we get a flashback of the pivotal scene in both Toribio and Luis' life. It's a doozie. Toribio was in charge of mentoring young Luis Alberto in the art of being a landowner. He shows him the fields where his father will grow avocados, gently teaches him how to ride, reminding him to treat the horse as he himself would like to be treated. And carefully coaches him in the art of target shooting.

Then comes the day when they go out to hunt together. Luis wants Toribio to run ahead to flush out the ducks so he can shoot them. Instead he shoots early and wounds Toribio in the head. And immediately cries out "It wasn't me! It was the Devil!"

Back to real time. Toribio is yelling YOU SHOT ME! ASSASSIN! MURDERER! YOU TRIED TO KILL ME!

Luis shrieks and covers his contorted face.

Not exactly your typical christening party.
 

MIRADA #81 PILLSBURY DOUGHBOY GETS BAPTIZED AND ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE

Part 4

The nightmare continues. Toribo is still shouting "THE DEVIL WANTS TO KILL ME!"

And the eyes of everyone turn to don Luis.

Damiana steps in. Your presence is bothering Toribio. Please leave. Luis recovers his usual aplomb, kisses the baby and strides off, growling at Prudencia that he'll wait for her at home.

Beto leaves as well. To Doc Mask's delight. He's speculating, from his Lurking Spot nearby, that his "bonita" probably ran him off.

Beto collars don Luis and wants to know what all THAT was about. "If you'll join me for a cup of coffee at home I'll tell ya," says Dad, turning the situation to his advantage.

And Marina is doing just what we feared...dismissing Toribio's hysteria as the result of his infection and fever. Bazán questions whether there were other hunters in the area. No, only him.

So are things going any better at the spa? Of course not. Big Ed and his bride are seated at a lovely table with a bewitching view. And he's not happy. The food is weird. He's not eating it. And where can you get a tequila in this place? Vane murmurs that alcohol is prohibited. They're de-toxing after all. Well, no they're not. He needs a drink. She persuades him to try the massage. It doesn't go well, She runs off to try and flee the place for Beto and the hospital, but Big Ed is right behind her. Spa attendant proposes Plan B(We want your stay to be exhilarating!) And suggest the jacuzzi with lavender water. Full speed ahead for jacuzzi. What could go wrong?
 

MIRADA # 81 PILLSBURY DOUGHBOY GETS BAPTIZED AND ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE

Part 5

Ricardo and Marina are comforting Toribio and the good doc is giving him a tranquilizer so he can sleep off this traumatic event. And he thinks Lucreepy needs to change her protocol for treating the poor fellow. What she's doing right now isn't helping.

He and Marina continue to talk about the situation. She remembers it well. Toribio never lies. And he had a very close relationship with the young Luis. But after the accident, and the payment for Toribio's care, he was run off the ranch. Only through the covert kindness of Margarito was he allowed to snatch a few avocados from time to time.

Well, I want you to relax and enjoy the party, soothes Bazán. And the festivities continue. Lino is singing a happier song for a change. But Marina remains pensive and preoccupied. Prudencia is worried that the whole thing as been a bust. Marina tries to reassure her that it was all quite lovely...the food the decor etc. "Well, I'd like to do a lot more for you, darling. To make up for all those years I couldn't." Marina waves her off, reassuring her that her receptionist salary is generous and she's saving to pay off her debt.

The conversation takes a dark turn. Did you know Toribio taught Luis to ride and hunt? With all the time you have known him, Mom, do you think Luis would be capable of such a thing as shooting Toribio? -Well, I'll ask him, replies Pru. -"No don't. Because you might find out the truth."

Dum-de-dum dum.

Beto has no such reluctance. Once at the house, and turning down a tequila which Luis wants rather than coffee, he demands "Look me in the eye Dad and tell me you had nothing to do with Toribio's accident." -"Hey, Toribio should be THANKING me," blusters Luis. "I'm the one who called for help and got him treatment so he didn't die."

"Well how did you happen to be so nearby then?

Luis skirts the question and switches to his usual "Hey, you've got this adorable girlfriend. Bring her to the house. Bring her to dinner. We want to get to know her better."

Beto says adiós and slips out.

Luis is left alone with his conscience.

And his confident face dissolves into terror as he remembers that fateful day. His breathing becomes agitated. He's in full panic attack like our Vanessa.

And there we end.
 

She Could drown herself to get out of the marriage. Lol. I know not funny. But some people would do just that to be free rather than be tied to a large
Neanderthal. Good recap JudyB. I just
Walked in from work to see lousey try
To get beto to ignore the rubbles of a
Brain damaged Ol man. And then lousey
Has a flash back of the dirty deed. He
Is scared to death. As he should be. If there can be anything done to help get tori memory back, he can tell what
Really happened, cuz the overgrown toddler ain't talkin. He is so afraid of people seeing him for who & what he is. Well itsa comin out anyhoo.
He just had to come in there with the most expensive largest gifts. You're right Judy he's a big kid, that never grew up.

So are we gonna see the mask unmasked to look like a normal disgusting creep
Instead of a masked disgusting creep?
I hope so cuz he looks O-so-nasty in that Make-up. But this just lucreepy's way of tryin to get marina out of the way. Not gonna work.

What was marina sayin to pru at the end?
Was she tryin to reasure her that Luis did Nothing to hurt tori? Cuz looked like Marina wasn't Havin it.

Thanks JudyB.
 

Thank you, JudyB. I couldn't wait to see what you did with this episode--more fireworks than New Year's Day at Time Square! So much happened and you caught just about every last detail with your usual brilliance. Among the many, I especially liked--

Great opportunity to make hay with Yola, as the understanding and supportive boyfriend. Glad to know something motivates this slug to shake a leg.

Bazán spots Beto arriving to talk to Margarito and goes into Doberman mode. Growling, snapping, glaring, snarling, teeth-baring.

Creepy music plays as Luis, looking menacing indeed, follows him and plants himself, stance wide over Toribio, cowering under a glass table.

Luis shrieks and covers his contorted face.

Not exactly your typical christening party.

And his confident face dissolves into terror as he remembers that fateful day. His breathing becomes agitated. He's in full panic attack like our Vanessa.

Such an enjoyable read!

I need to go back and check, but I thought Marina had something in mind to have Pru help her get Luis to admit the truth???

Gotta go...be back laters...
 

I thought we ended before part 5.
And I got my questions answered thank U Very much. It's good to see fear on his smug face.
 

"MIRADA":

Judy: I see the Don Jackass Dictatorship is going to be dragging on & on OMG. What's his damn problem ? Was he spoiled as a kid or something ?

Nina: Be honest if anybody wanted to punch some smug people on the TV ?

RGV Chick: If I was Marina, I wouldn't bother asking Pru for help since she's worthless.
 

MIRADA!

Oopsie, I was so eager to get my comment in above that I forgot to write in the TN title.

Anywhoo, I couldn't wait so I did go back and check. Marina told Pru that getting to the truth was in her hands. Pru was not understanding, so Marina told her that she would tell her exactly what she needed to do. So what is Marina going to do? What trick does she have up her sleeve to get Luis to admit that he shot Tori? And now that we saw what actually happened, was it really an accident? I'm having doubts...I don't think Luis had any intention of killing Tori, but I do think he took a shot at him; maybe he was just trying to shoot Tori's hat off to scare him and show him what a good marksman he was? Will we ever find out his true motivation?

OK, now I really gotta run!!!
 

Excellent recap, JudyB!

A lot going on in this episode and Don Luis is at the center of it. He doesn’t exactly have a good reputation in this story from basically forcing Pru, Agustias and Damiana to make the baby switcheroo, to helping Doc Mask separate Beto and Marina, to boinking Su.....and now this. I’m not sure I wanna know if he has more skeletons in his closet. Those around Toribio could easily say he’s crazy but sometimes the craziest things are real:

Hopefully Beto wouldn’t have stuck around for the party for his own sake but he did actually have something important to do. I don’t know if Ric fully has the right to get jealous and such.

I thought it was funny how Beto ignored Luis’ comments and left.

I wonder if Pru will confront Luis.

Edson is really dumb for still thinking Vane is still interested in Beto. Like, shut up, dude.
 

Oops forgot to put MIRADA at the top. And to clarify when I said Luis “forced” the switcheroo, obviously he didn’t know about it but the women knew how he’d react to finding out the baby was a girl so indirectly it is his fault.
 

MIRADA

Judy, I smiled my way through this, starting with the title. Your creative juices and marvelous sense of humor were on full display.

“we see the execrable Doc Mask, still in rank hoodie and red track shoes, oozing our behind the Amoebas”, “This is a toddler in a giant, intimidating body” and “limp as a rag doll” were just great.

I am going to remember “bleating pitifully” – may I please borrow this if and when the situation arises?

Nina, laughed out loud at “So are we gonna see the mask unmasked to look like a normal disgusting creep Instead of a masked disgusting creep?

I enjoyed your comments Rgv Chick, Steve and TF. Glad you are all enjoying this.

Thank you Judy – you brought the sun into a dreary day. As you always do...

Diana

 

MIRADA

Wow, we've got the Monday heebie-jeebies. People have been waiting all weekend to see the christening party and the Patio's already going strong. And I haven't even got the drinks ready.

Nina...had to laugh at your supposition that after surgery Doc Sotero will look like "a normal disgusting creep instead of a masked disgusting creep". Tellin' it like it is!

Rgv Chick...Like you, I'm wondering now if it was an accident. There didn't seem to be any reason to shoot. Toribio hadn't flushed out any ducks yet. Was it a slip of the trigger finger out of nervousness? Or am immature prank to scare Toribio? All we know for sure is that Luis, in spite of his arrogance and bluster, is haunted by guilt, just as Toribio is haunted by the horror. And Marina seems to be giving mixed messages. Hints on how to find out the truth but then a further hint that perhaps Pru should not ask...since the truth might be too much for her.

Steve...Prudencia still has a lot of trust and confidence in her husband, but I would not qualify her as "worthless".

TF...I agree that Bazán's reaction to Beto's appearance was overblown and inappropriate. Funny but not funny.

Finally, do we need to keep putting MIRADA at the top now? No other daytime tn's are being covered and no one ever mentions la Rosa de Guadalupe.
 

Ah Diana, I missed your comment as I was typing mine. And had to laugh, just as we pick out the same lines in recap to note...we also pick out the same lines in the comments. Seriously, we must share the same brain so of course you can use "bleating pitifully" or anything else I've ever said. What yours is mine and what's mine is yours.
 

Judy – thank you for your recap! I was wondering how you were going to title this episode. All hell has, indeed, broken loose.

” Giant Toddler Luis” Indeed. You nailed it.
” “bleating pitifully”” Love that one.
” Not exactly your typical christening party.” Nopis!

Hilda looked like she was having a Bloody Mary. And I’m fairly well convinced Edson has a drinking problem, possibly crossed over into alcoholism by now.

Luis was an absolute **** when he shoved those gifts off the table to put his tricycle on it. So insulting, rude, and self-centered. Yep, that’s our Don Louse.

I’m VERY disappointed that Prudencia did not step in and make him put those gift bags all back on the table. Some days I question her sanity/intelligence/whatever.

WHY DOES NOBODY NOTICE DOC MASK LURKING EVERYWHERE??? Oh, right, they're wearing their telenovela beanie hats, too. Argh.....!
 

Hi Doris, Just when we think don Louse can’t get even worse, he does something like that gift sweep off the table. Sometimes our 20 month old grandson likes to fling around his toys like that, but our daughter makes him pick them up. I imagine in don Luis’ life, that was a servant’s job.

As for Hilda, yep our little gal can knock ‘me back. Hijo de tigre? Guess it’s time for an intervention, but I doubt that’s in the script. Trouble ahead for sure.
 

MIRADA

JudyB, thank you for this excellent, excellent recap!

Damiana made me laugh for a change. She looked a little like a grumpy old priest in her cassock and surplice.   :-)

Isn't Don Louse a bit over the top at this point? "... he sweeps the other gaily wrapped presents off the table to deposit HIS present right on top. This is a toddler in a giant, intimidating body."

In ways and at times a toddler, but does anyone think he would do such a thing at an upscale party at the home of a business associate?

And I agree with Doris, it was disappointing that Prudy never said anything to him.

Anyway, yes, "Not exactly your typical christening party."


Guys, time to check out your TN beanies, do some preventive maintenance, perhaps order spare parts. I've been waiting for something like this but I had no idea it would involve Doc Lucreepy getting daddy (and Beto?) involved. But it looks like there might be some TN special, highly unrealistic, plastic surgery in Doc Mask's future.


What does our little daffodil have in mind for Don Lousy Louse?

andy
 

MIRADA above^^^^^^
 

Andy...Love your description of Damiana as a grumpy old priest in her cassock and surplice. Right on the money. And of course we paid you a little "homage" in the title-- Pillsbury Doughboy was your stroke of genius.

For sure there's some unrealistic plastic surgery in Doc Mask's future. But I'm willing to believe just so we can put aside all the other horrors. The actor is pretty good-looking when the makeup artists haven't messed with him. I prefer my villains hunky if at all possible.
 

MIRADA
I won’t see the episode until tomorrow Loved the recap title, JudyB. Now I can hardly wait! I am averting my eyes from comments as well, but it is very tempting!
Mely
 

Good morning Ms. Mely. We'll look forward to hearing your reaction to the episode later today. It was a humdinger, for sure.
 

MIRADA

One other thing: Have a number of late afternoon, early evening commitments today and Wednesday, so 5-part recap will not be up until 7 or 8 pm.
 

MIRADA

Can't wait to see what happens today, but I'm looking forward to reading your recap even more, JudyB....but I will be patiently waiting. Take your time and focus on your commitments...we will always be here.
 

MIRADA STANDS ALONE
JudyB--Another fly ball hit to left field--it curves, curves, and The Louse (# xx) dropped it. A HOME RUN, cheering on the Patio, pats on the back for a wonderful trip into the Vecindad and time spent with the Amoeba Gang (which sure grew for the bautiso).

Yep, Luis as self-centered and narcissistic as he is, had no idea how offensive his behavior was to decent working folks. Maybe it works with his own peons and his wife and Sudoodoo and Vane. Maybe that's why we always see him "working" alone at his desk. He can't get along with anybody. I was surprised Angustia and Bazie's mother didn't have some pointed comments.

And our sweet Marina, as clueless as ever. I was happy to see that Tori was actually speaking some truths and remembering the incident that left him in his altered state. But it could be dangerous.

Can't wait for the intersection of Beto and Doc Creepy in the OR. I wonder if he will shed his red running shoes and hoodie for the operation. We know it's coming.
 

Anita - wow, I hadn't even thought about the connection of Beto being a cosmetic surgeon and then facing Doc Mask on the OR table!!!
 

MIRADA

O.M.G. Can't wait for the recap so I can comment on today's episode.😳😳😳
 

MIRADA

Doris, I'm on the edge of my seat too...with a big bowl of ice cream. Can't wait to see what Judy does with this!
 

Rgv Chick - the writers definitely took no prisoners. I am still in shock.Must See TV!!!
 

MIRADA #82 CHICKENS COMING HOME TO ROOST

Part 1

Yikes. If there was ever a recap I didn't want to write, it's this one. All sorts of horrible events transpired. If all Hell broke loose yesterday, what can we say about today? The Gates of Hell opened wide and we see several characters going down or about to go down in flames.

So take a deep breath,Patio, and let's review the carnage.

We start off mildly enough. Anita is holding the baby while Marina and the others help clean up. Ricardo has offered to take Pru and Angustias home so Lino can spend more time with his dad. Baldomero is going to give Toribio his pill so he can have a good sleep.

But the darkness is always close. We see the execrable Doc Isauro lurking behind a tree observing the vecindad. And then his phone rings. The Queen of Darkness herself--Lucrecia. Wanting to arrange another one of her diabolical "therapy" sessions with the obsessive medico. And Margarito is explaining to his kids why he needs the operation. Even with the the doc waiving the consulting fee, it's going to be pricey. And even though don Luis likes to pretend he's generous around Marina, it's not so. Lino says they'll sell the truck if their savings aren't enough, but they'll all hang together and get through this.

You know what? Let's just get the whole Vanessa-Big Ed story line over with. From beginning to end. I don't feel like weaving it in and out of the recap the way the show did.

Here we go. Ed, ever delusional, is trying to lure Vanessa into the jacuzzi. She, on the other hand, is trying to sneak out the door. He tries to pull her back. She says all she wants from him is a divorce. There's no divorce in our family. Mom won't have it!-Explain to her that we have nothing in common. It will never work! -Is this because I won't support YOUR mom? Alright, I'll give her a monthly stipend like you asked. -I don't want you to pay her or pay anything! I can't stand you. Can't stand your friends. Your kisses! Nothing about you excites me! You makes me sick!

He slugs her. Throws her down on the bed. Yanks her head back viciously by her hair. So you like it rough, huh? Okay then.

We spared the next scene, but just in case we don't get it, the camera focuses on Toribio, huddled under the covers, screaming in terror. Another victim of a man's violence.

Alright. We'll come back to these two later. But I needed to get that out of the way. I imagine you did too.

Dam, Marina and Baldo are talking about Toribio's situation and wondering if Luis would ever admit to what Tor said he did. I don't know, admits Marina, but I told Prudencia to ask him.

And she does. When she arrives home, he's bumptious and cheery. Ah, there's my wife, imagine you had a blast, right? [la pasaste bomba]Too bad that old fool (Toribio) had to act so crazy though.

He didn't seem crazy, he seemed to have a very clear recall of what happened that day, replies Prudencia coolly. Especially of the moment he was shot.

The camera focuses on don Luis' horrified face.

I want to know the truth Luis. Our marriage depends on it. What happened that day? When it was just you and him...Did that bullet come from your gun?

Yes.

And we break for ads.
 

MIRADA #82 CHICKENS COMING HOME TO ROOST

Part 2

How could you? asks Pru. -Hey, I was just a kid. When those ducks started to fly, I couldn't wait to shoot. But I couldn't hold the rifle up high enough. -But you didn't admit it! You were a coward! -I only told my dad. And he said he'd take care of it. -Yes, the way the Ocaranzas take care of everything. With money! But then you took away Toribio's job, his livelihood,you left him in misery, hungry, without resources. How could you sleep at night knowing this? -Hey, put yourself in my shoes...I was a kid. I had to obey my dad.

I can't change the past. And you're going to keep your mouth shut.

But you told everyone that Toribio was crazy. HEY, I SAVED HIS LIFE! I ran and got help. I don't need reproaches. I need an understanding, compassionate wife.

Are you going to say something?

Yes.

But I'll give you the chance to do the right thing. Tell the truth. To everyone. Be the man I once fell in love with.

Luis grabs her, hugs her desperately, like a huge, frightened child. She twists away and leaves. He stumbles, bringing his fists to his mouth like a anxious toddler. Then suddenly his face changes to one of rage and hate. The Devil is back.

Outside the office, Pru is talking to Angustias who notes that she thought the fights would stop once they got Susana out of the house. -They'll never stop. He's the one who hurt Toribio, admits Prudencia.

Alright. I'm sorry. We have to go back to Ed and Vanessa. She sitting at the patio table looking dazed and beaten. He's all cheery and Hey, the champagne's arrived! Let's toast together and have a great evening. When he tries to forcibly hold her and kiss her, she screams You're a pig! And knees him before running out the door.

He follows and if it weren't so awful, it would be funny watching him try and run in some backless bunny slippers. She seems about to get away when she hits a closed and locked gate. He catches up. Grabs her again. They struggle and somehow pitch over the side onto the concrete pool deck below. Both lie still. We see blood coming from his mouth.

Again, the horror is interspersed with Toribio waking up again, screaming and recalling the day he was shot. THE DEVIL IS COMING, THE DEVIL IS COMING. DON'T LET HIM KILL ME! Baldo holds him close and tries to comfort him.

But there seems to be no comfort for Ed and Vanessa. Nor for poor Toribio.


 

MIRADA #82 CHICKENS ARE COMING HOME TO ROOST

Part 3

Angustias is shaking her head. I can't believe it! -And he let Toribio suffer all these years, adds Pru. Managing to get by on the benevolence of Damiana and Baldomero.

Luis, back in form, angry and dominant, strides in clapping BRAVO! BRAVO! Selling me out the first chance you get, Señora!

-Are you going to come clean? Tell the truth to Marina? Luis says nothing. And leaves.

Prudencia, her head in her hands, admits that every day she has fewer and fewer reasons to stay with don Luis.

Alright, I found the next scene annoying. Ricardo is complaining about Beto's arrival and his general "always around-ness" when it comes to Marina. It goes on for some time and just seems petty and unimportant given the horrors going on elsewhere. May I skip this? Thanks. Let's just say it concludes with Mama reassuring him that his tenderness will eventually sideline Beto and win Marina over.

More darkness. The Devil is everywhere in this episode. Lucrecia is holding out various poison apples to Doc Isauro. Ever since you told me about your love story, I keep thinking how unjust this all is. Clearly this is the woman for you! -Well, I thought she would eventually come to love me and since she was blind, my disfigurement wouldn't matter. But then HE came along. -Tell me about him. -To him, she was just a plaything. He used her. Then, when he got what he wanted, he abandoned her.

For a moment Lucrecia looks thoughtful. Hmmm...maybe I don't want this Alberto after all.

But then she reaches in for more poison apples. And you've managed to follow her...find out where she lives...observe her. If you can get close to her, things can work.-No! She hates me! And she's no longer blind.- So..what? you're just going to keep sneaking around, following her? -I have to. I can't live without her! -What if she goes with another man? -No! I'll kill him! Alright, we need to work on some things. First, your impotence. Next, your self-esteem. We'll change your way of thinking, but we'll also change your appearance! YOU'LL BE A NEW MAN!

Don't you think I haven't looked into that!? he snaps. Everyone has told me it's risky because my facial muscles were also damaged in the fire. -Ah, but I have "una eminencia internacional" [famous international surgeon]in my family who could do the surgery. And what's the worst that could happen? That nothing would change. But if it worked, you could go out without hiding, approach the woman you love without her running away. Isn't it worth it? No.

-Think about it. It could change your life, coos Lucreepy.

Other than that, there's a bit of bother in the vecindad with Baldomero vowing to denounce Luis to the authorities for Toribio's injury. Even though he has no proof. For him, Toribio's pitiful state is proof enough.
 

MIRADA #82 CHICKENS COMING HOME TO ROOST

Part 4

The Devil is working through Susana as well, as she weaves all kinds of reasons to pry Luis away from his wife. The best of all is when she sniffs that Prudencia has forgotten her VOWS..you know, the ones that say "for better or for worse".

Well, Choochie Moochie, how about those Vows of Fidelity? Don Luis ain't batting a thousand either.

Naturally, Luis has a good idea of how Chooch can comfort him for the failings of said wife. And for some reason the cameraman was getting quite artistic with the scene, shooting the foreplay through some kind of lighted globe and later, showing the "apres l'amour scene through a some of lighted prism which showed multiple views of Luis and Mooch. I figured I'd rather focus on how the scene was shot than what they were actually doing. And you too, right?

Things are about to get awful again, but first there's a wee scene at the bar. Yola, Erasmo and Anita are there. Lino is singing his usual dirge. Erick is the newly hired bartender juggling bottles, dispensing charm and creating a new drink called "Morena de Fuego" for Yola. All this is not going down well with Erasmo, who wants to know why the famous doctor is slumming with a peon's job. And what does he know about having to work by the sweat of his brow at a job he hates? Enough of that.

Beto, studying, but actually thinking of Marina, is interrupted by a phone call. And then calls Pru to tell her Vane and her husband had an accident. He's tried to reach Susana but she's now answering her phone. Can Pru get hold of her? She promises to do so and also wonders where Luis might be. Perhaps with Marina?

Angustias looks sour. And in the know. But all she says is "I don't think so."

Well, Chucha is one of those folks that like to talk afterwards. I think those folks are probably all women, but whatever. She's back on the campaign. Don't go to those awful, vulgar people [gentuza}. They'd probably throw you out anyway. Luis is worried about how Marina would react if he told her. Susana's phone rings. She answers. QUE?!
 

MIRADA # 82 CHICKENS COMING HOME TO ROOST

Final part

We see Hilda in the hospital waiting room, hysterical and pacing frantically. Beto hugs her...and for a moment I really like the guy. It's a good hug. Long. Solid. Comforting. The kind of hug you would need in a situation like that. But what she really needs is information. And to see her son. He's all I have in life! she wails. He promises to find out what is going on. She also manages to ask about Vanessa, but understandably her deepest concern is about her "pimpollo".

Angustias and the good servant, Hortensia? are praying the rosary. Baldomero and Marina are at the local police station trying to denounce Luis but without the aggrieved party, Toribio, the complaint cannot be registered. A bored bureaucrat rolls his eyes and waves them off.

If Hilda was frantic and worried, Susana is simply loud and aggressive, demanding to see her daughter. And annoyed as hell that she didn't even know Vanessa and Ed were at a spa. These kids. They never tell you anything!

Luis touches her arm. Tells her gently to calm down and let the doctors handle it. Prudencia, standing off in a corner, watches them closely. Is she beginning to suspect there are other things she doesn't know about her husband? Something besides the shooting?

Time will tell.

I know you all are just dying to jump in. Wouldn't you know this is one of the days I'm late. So fire away!
 

It kills me when I can't correct typos afterwards. For instance she's NOT answering her phone, rather than she's now...but oh well...
 

MIRADA

JudyB, thank you for this excellent recap of the world gone bad   :-(

ITA that's it's a pain in the Netherlands to not be able to go back and correct typos and such.


Edson looks very dead, we'll have to wait to see about Vanesa. And about Lino.

What Don Louse and his father did was terrible. I could perhaps overlook the cover-up, but not their treatment of Toribio afterwards. Did Louse never think of Tori, never want to help him? Sheesh!

Prudy is finally coming to see the guy as he truly is. Hard to believe she didn't before.


"The Queen of Darkness herself--Lucrecia." Oh, yeah, well said! I am coming to enjoy the Queen, she's just so villainous! Don't ask me to explain why she is fun and Louse is grating, I can't. Chucha was never evil fun either, just evil, and forever mistreating our poor spoiled hot house orchid who is now... (?)

As Doris might say, Must See TV!

andy
 

I know what that feels like JudyB. It Is very annoying....but oh well stuff
Happens. Even typos.

Ok back to the recap/comment part.
I was so glad to see that look of fear
And lose on the louse's face. It's been a looooong time comin. They fired
The poor man after they ruined his life. Bastards. What garbage he is. He
Still thinks it's nothing. I love seeing pru get in his face and standup
And say "NO". The girl got balls. And he's a giant that happens to be a cold hearted coward. And I think pru maybe
Getting a clue about the mooch n louse .
Time will tell.

Mr eddy and vanesa, I think he's dead.
When I saw The blood comin from his noggin, eyes open, probly dead on the
Impact when head meant concrete. Ain't
Nice to rape and act like you've done nothin wrong. He probly was gonna beat her again. I'm sorry for hildy. I really hope she didn't know her son was a nutJob/wife beater. And hes all shes got? Poor lady.

Lucreepy just wants to throw marina to
The freak. She is just as twisted as he is. She should loose her license to practice medicine, the girl is a quack
And Dr daddy's eyes are wide shut bout it.

I sure hope they can help Toribio,he's been Livin in hell far to long. It's now lousey's time to go to hell. And
Take the mooch with him. Maybe they can form a club with ed and lucifer.

The only reason mooch is upset is cuz her Money well may have dryed up. To hell with the fact that her daughter has maybe Fallen to her death with her rapest/wifebeating husband(tape him up and go On a second honeymoon, but be sure and leave me a check)she is just
An insufferable bitch. Her n the louse
Are perfect for each other.

Going to the popo to report a shooting
That happened maybe a quarter of century ago is not getting anywhere, cuz that guy sitting behind The desk mighta coulda been on the payroll back in the day when he was a rooky. Just a
Guess.
I think pru is about to have a rude &
Painful awakening. Bout dam time!

Thank you JudyB. Lovely to read you as always.
 

Judy- Thank you for your recap!!! You amaze me with how you crank these recaps out so quickly.♥♥♥

” The Devil is everywhere in this episode” Another perfect title for your recap, too.

Too bad it wasn’t Louse & Chu who went over a cliff.

Good grief, just when Vanessa finally grew a spine, was honest with Ed, asked for a divorce, and kneed him in his jewels, THIS happened. Poor girl can’t get a break.

Interesting that Edson acknowledged he ‘bought and paid for her.’ No love lost there.

Those were bunny slippers? I thought they were Crocs. IDK

When the camera zoomed in on Edson’s open, lifeless eyes, he sure looked dead to me. So now he’s in the ER getting evaluated? Whaaaat? I wish we had a doctor on the Patio to ‘splain!

Well, they zoomed in on Ed and NOT on Vane, so she might have a chance.

Hilda’s panic was palpable. I feel for her. I really do.
This whole episode had some great acting by Luis & Pru, SociopathLuCreepy & Doc Mask, Hilda, and Toribio. Well done.

Luis trying to justify the whole Toribio thing to Pru was just disgusting. Running to Chucha was even more disgusting.

Pobrecito de Toribio. The poor man needs peace.
 

OT

Doris, your new avatar is too funny!

andy
 

MIRADA
Well you certainly lived up to your reputation JudyB. What a treat!
I am afraid Doc B may have lost me this episode. Way to wreck a happy occasion! Very inappropriate and how did he get appointed the defender of a woman who didn’t ask for it and can surely take perfect care of herself
Wondering about Doc Mask. Will his new face be same as his old face, or will he be unrecognizable?

Paul’s dress was a disservice to a little very lovely lady

Writers had Luis out of character with sweeping the gifts off the table. He would have ordered someone to make room!

Mely
 

MIRADA

Wow what a doozy you had, JudyB!

I’m surprised Luis told Pru the truth but I guess he really had no other choice. However, he’s still putting his marriage at risk by what he’s doing with Su.

I’m glad Beto isn’t an Ocaranza otherwise he may have inherited the macho narcissism from Luis and Luis’ father. Hopefully Toribio can eventually be free of his demons.

If the writers kill Vane off that’d suck but hopefully it is the end for Edson. Although I’d probably feel bad for Hilda. I don’t know....
 

Good Morning Passionate Patio. Clearly this telenovela is doing just what Televisa wanted...to engage you, outrage you and keep you coming back for more. The events of yesterday's episode were so disturbing, so egregious, that several of you couldn't wait to get to your typewriter to vent! I love it. No neutral zone here. For me,, the disturbing events made me want to withdraw and forget about the whole thing. So sitting down to recap was only because you're my buds and I owe you.

Andy..."pain in the Netherlands" Great! And interesting that you're more disturbed by Luis than Lucrecia. For me, it's just the opposite. Do we automatically cut the other sex some slack? I dunno. I guess it's her sneakiness, under the cloak of Lady Bountiful, that bothers me so much. And she clearly understands the impact of her machinations; whereas sometimes I think Luis is just a clueless brute.

Nina....Very interesting theory that the only reason Susana is upset, is the Money Pit has dried up. Even if Vane survives, she could be so disfigured, Chooch would have no hope of pimping her out to another rich man. You may be on to something here! And I join you in hoping that Beto can turn out better than his adoptive father and that one day Toribio will be free of his demons. In fact if the Queen of Darkness could actually help cure Toribio, I might forgive her other deadly proclivities.
 

Wow Doris, where did you find that avatar! Simply perfect.

And sadly, Hilda's well-intentioned plan of sending Vane and Ed off to a spa triggered that perfect storm of fatal honesty. He wanted his money's worth from the marriage, she wanted only escape. And their struggle brought about their mutual downfall (no pun intended.) As for the "bunny slippers" by that I only meant they were soft and fuzzy. On my TV at least! LOL

As for Luis, he's an equal opportunity user...if Pru won't comfort him, it's Plan B Susana. Not unlike many folk we know in real life. All of us have made mistakes, hurt people and self-justified. But his sins have been carried to such extremes we see the horror of such behavior.

There's an interesting book called Mistakes Were Made But Not by Me. Luis could be the star character in that.
 

Mely...Interesting observations. If Luis were true to character, he would have ordered someone to remove the gifts to give HIS the place of honor. Quite plausible. The actor may have decided on the clean sweep simply to be more flamboyant and outrageous.

And you're right that the dress Prudencia was wearing yesterday made her look very matronly. Lately (until yesterday's episode) she's been dressing in a sexier, more revealing way. But yesterday was All Abuela All the Time.

TF...somehow my brain merged your comments with Nina's but I still join you!...Hopefully Toribio can be free of his demons and Beto a better man than his adoptive Dad. Who indeed is putting his marriage at risk. Although I understand that culturally, male infidelity is considered "normal" there, and wives are expected to put up and shut up. I do not think that will be Prudencia's reaction however. So more Perfect Storms to come no doubt.

Delia Fiallo wrote the original story on which this is based. In fact she wrote a gazillion stories, which she eventually sold to Televisa. I understand that she is not happy with the results, but clearly she has stirred all YOUR passions and you are engaged and alternately buoyed or outraged by each development.

That's a good thing. And if it can help us sort out some of our own confused feelings about guilt and accountability, honesty and self-disclosure, selfishness and generosity...than all the better. My mother used to call tales like these "silly stories" but it's clear that they stimulate helpful discussion about human behavior and what constitutes a life well lived.

I don't always enjoy the episodes, but I love watching them and re-hashing them with you all. Have a great day Patio!


 

I've used that avatar before, a year or two ago. We just weren't all watching the same telenovela at that time, I cannot remember where I found it, but my best guess is from my Facebook feed.

Judy - our Low Def reception and Ed's fast moving feet made it hard for me to discern his footwear, even after rewinding to watch again. 🤷🏼‍♀️

Judy - Is Delia Fiallo not happy with her story's ending? Or this current adaptation?
 

MIRADA

Doris, Delia's alleged dissatisfaction was not with this story specifically, but with the way Televisa has adapted all her stories. Mind you, this is "internet information". Could be true, could be completely off the wall. Although, in general, writers tend to be unhappy with TV or movie adaptations of their novels. So I imagine it's accurate. A writer likes what he writes and does not like changes to the original.

On Ed's spa footwear, I think our ultimate judge has to be Rgv Chick. She was actually able to read Erick's name on that roster Lucrecia was viewing on her monitor when looking for an entry to the hospital pharmacy. I've had cataract surgery so I know my vision is fine, but I sure couldn't read it on our elderly TV.

However, I've been to holiday spas (okay, ONCE for my daughter's destination wedding)and they do provide backless, fuzzy terrycloth slippers along with cozy terrycloth robes. Mmmmmm....luxurious! But hard to run in! Another reason Big Ed might have slipped and tipped over a fence onto the concrete.

Ugh! What a horrible episode that was. In so many ways.
 

"MIRADA":

Judy: Let me guess. More EVIL winning ?

Must be the longest winning streak by a large group of Antagonists in any Telenovela.
 

Anita...thanks for your comment yesterday. I was already off for a long afternoon of commitments and missed it. Like you, I hope that Doc Isauro will shed his hoodie and his red shoes soon. In fact I just wish he'd disappear.

Off to babysit now. Will check back in later, but it may be waaaay later.

Steve...Antagonists seem to win for a long time in these telenovelas. But we always have the hope that they'll either be punished or redeemed in the end. That's part of what keeps us hooked.
 

MIRADA

Judy, I'm so sorry this was such a dark episode. Hell, not even knowing what was transpiring, I sort of shivered reading what took place.

On the bright side, you covered this with incredible dedication while infusing some badly needed humor. Your recaps have been and are the gold standard to which I can only aspire to.

Enjoyed "execrable Doc Isauro", “diabolical”, “obsessive” and of course "she reaches in for more poison apples".

Through the years, I’ve always appreciated your Spanish vocabulary and dichos. As much as I enjoy them, the thing I love the most is learning new words in English – “bumptious”, which I must look up after I finish this.

Thank you Judy. You are so busy yet you continue to give so generously of your time and effort, graciously.

Diana
 

MIRADA

Why do I still feel better putting Mirada at the top of my post now that Flor is over? Comfort in our tradition, I guess.

Can't wait for today's episode, to see the horrendous fallout.

I read something this morning that describes Don Luis perfectly. Slightly paraphrased, he always '"whitewashes (his actions) with self-justification and self-righteousness." Spot on.

I feel very fortunate to have the Patio watch this with me and share the horror. And Judy's recaps!!! Group hug! Bring on the virtual ice cream,,, although we might need something stronger after today. Kahlua or Tia Maria drizzled on top of the vanilla ice cream. Or Andy's rum raisin. Or perhaps some nice warm tea to soothe the soul.
 

JudyB--
Chickens Coming Home to Roost is great, but we're dealing with Roosters here. One went SPLAT and the other had to SPLAIN. Good storytelling regardless of gender. Thanks for this one, JB.

My first thoughts also was that blood trickling from mouth and open eyes spelled THE END for Edson. As they kept prolonging the suspense of the aftermath, I started thinking that if Vane doesn't make it, it will solve Lino's short term problem of two ladies in love with him--one more socially appropriate than the other, but his heart would be broken. If Vane lives, then we know Anita is sent to the GoodTry Surplus Shoppe along with LuCrazier Than Ever. I wonder which one, Beto or Bazan ends up there, knowing full well Doc Un-Masked will join the cast-offs. Will it be Margarito or Baldomero, once Damiana makes up her mind? Have we ever had such a surfeit of pair-able extras?

I'll bet Don Louse thought nothing about Toribio in 25 or more years, morally or otherwise on his conscious. It wasn't his dad that sent Tori to the poor house. As long as Don Louse didn't have to actually SEE him, he wasn't bothered emotionally.

He did the same with Marina. Threatened her to stay off HIS property and away from HIS Beto. When he saw her again, kidnapped her and dropped her off at Doc Mask's and hopefully out of his sight for ever. What he doesn't see doesn't hurt him.

Only trouble is, Marina did survive and is madder at him than ever. Now his negligence in Tori's case is known by at least 3 believable persons--Pru, Angsy and Susu.

Even if we give him the benefit of the doubt and it was an accident, he did run away. At least he told his father. It doesn't excuse him from how he treated a disabled person after that. He still deserves punishment for his negligence.
 

Doris--
It's so hot here, I'll do the Tia Maria over ice and then repeat the dose.
 

Oh, I forgot to put either Eric or Erasmo in the bundle for the GoodTry Surplus Shoppe when this is over.
 

MIRADA

Anita. "GoodTry Surplus Shoppe" Love that! I'm writing that one down fer sure!
 

MIRADA

JudyB, I was so eager to read your recap and you did not disappoint. Actually I read it last night after I posted for 'Reina" but I was too tired and sleepy to comment. And Wednesday mornings are my busiest so I just now arrived to the passionate patio. Arriving late has it';s pros and cons. The pro is that everyone has already expressed everything I would like to have said and I can just say ditto to everything and everyone. The con is that...everyone has as already expressed everything I would like to have said, so there isn't much to add. LOL

I do agree that Luis admitting to Pru that he did shoot Tori was not only disgusting, but out of character (IMO). It was too quick and I was expecting a much more intricate plan to get him to admit the truth than just 'our marriage depends on whether you tell me the truth."

Doris, I too thought Big Ed was Bid Dead when I saw him laying there with his eyes open and not flinching. They really pulled one on us with that scene.

Nina, "The only reason mooch is upset is cuz her Money well may have dryed up." ITA, she'll probably go in and shake Vanessa to her ultimate death wondering what Vanessa did to screw things up.

Andy, "Prudy is finally coming to see the guy as he truly is. Hard to believe she didn't before.' It's taking ALOT to open this woman's eyes and pull her down from that ivory tower she wants to live in.

Doris, I can totally relate about putting "Mirada" at the beginning. For me, it's probably my OCD and being a stickler for following directions, setting an example and a whole slew of other things that won't let my brain deviate from the norm. Oh and I'll take a Bahama Mama AND my ice cream OMG! Just had a thought for a really good "mixed float" A big glass of Bahama Mama with a couple of scoops of the Schwan's Passion Punch Sherbet! I'm S A L I V A T I N G!:-)
 

MIRADA

"GoodTry Surplus Shoppe". Oh I just love this, Anita!

Rgv Chick - well I had to google Bahama Mama. Oh, the things I learn on the Patio . . . LOL
 

TF, "He's still putting his marriage at risk with what he's doing with su".
I'll that this has been over for years, all it needs now is to throw the dirt on it, and let it rest in piece. If there is such a thing for a
Marriage like that.
 

I'll say this for that marriage.....
 

Bahama mama. I had to look it up, too. It's on the menu at Applebee's,if you don't have all the ingredients at hand.
 

OT- Oooh, Anita, I have all the ingredients I need...and then some :-)
 

OT—I just treated myself to a made-up drink, based on, well, nothing really, except how much I love chocolate: Malibu Rum, Creme de Cacao and Half ‘n Half (plus 2 ice cubes). Better than iced coffee.
 

OT

Hmmm... sounds like it's not all goat milk at Rgv Chickie's.

:-)

andy
 

MIRADA #83 LUIS' FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE IS SHRINKING

Part 1

Luis, the man in charge, the one who calls the shots, pulls the strings, makes all the decisions and shuns anyone he wishes, is now suddenly losing all his power and influence as the truth about his cowardly actions of the past comes to light. He repeatedly asks that others "put themselves in his shoes" and understand him. But years of high-handed and unkind treatment have left him with no emotional capital to bank on. One by one, people turn away. Pretty soon only the despicable Chucha will be in his corner. But for now, she's threatening her daughter to be very careful with her story about the accident. If we thought Vanessa's near death experience would bring out the maternal in the Mooch, we were sadly wrong.

Here's how the episode played out tonight.

The opening scene is pretty much a repeat of last night: Marina and Baldomero try to register a complaint about Luis. But it happened in another jurisdiction and 30 years ago to boot. Next!

Hilda, anguished, finally gets in to see her pimpollo. She kisses his forehead, tries to reassure him that he will be fine,that he's strong!and to hang in there! Ed opens his eyes, tells her he really feels very bad, but thanks her for being there. Begs her forgiveness. Tells her how much he loves her. And dies.

She screams for a doctor and nurse, attempts are made to resuscitate, but all in vain. Beto, again showing a laudable compassion gently indicates that the medical personnel should leave so that Hilda can have a few moments alone with her son. She gently holds him and gives him a final kiss good-bye. She weeps in Beto's arms (again he's really been a mensch in this situation) and he does what he can to comfort her.

Well, Ed was not a crowd favorite, but some of us were very fond of Mama Hilda. Alas, he comes under the category of "inconvenient spouse". And they tend to die so the destined lovers can reunite. Good-bye Ed and welcome back Paulino. Although given Chucha's reception of him at the hospital, that happy pairing will be a long time coming. But Life goes on, and it will go on without the unfortunate Ed. We hardly knew ye, Ed, but what we knew was unpleasant. Still...

Speaking of unpleasant, Susanita is her usual brutal self when she finds an anguished Lino feverishly talking to Vanessa. She threatens to not only have him fired but to make sure Luis no longer supports Margarito in his medical treatment. Lino protests that Vanessa needs him. And she certainly does. But that cuts him no slack with Nightmare Mom. Off he goes.

Equally unpleasant is Doc Sotero. He's dissing the hapless Renata, who just wants to feed him, take care of him and when all those offers are rejected, insists on giving him a glass of warm milk. She's obsessive over him. He's obsessive over Marina. All he wants is for Renata to shadow her every move at the hospital. Otherwise, Leave. Him. Alone.

Marina calls her mom to find out how the confrontation with Luis went and instead learns about the accident. When Bazán calls to find out how Toribio is doing, he offers to take her to the hospital. Who wants to bet another antler-bashing opportunity will arise between him and Beto? Tiresome. Honestly. Bring on the ads.
 

MIRADA #83 LUIS' FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE IS SHRINKING

Part 2

Having dispatched Lino like a bad smell, Susana is now ready to move on to better things. Like spinning the story to the investigating officer that if anyone caused the accident, it would have been Ed. And Beto confirms that Ed did have alcohol in his system. Laying the groundwork for exoneration of Vanessa. Whatever the outcome, Chucha, who's about as sympathetic as cholera, is making sure things go their way. Officer backs off and says he'll talk to Vanessa when she comes to.

And then there's the Queen of Evil Lucrecia. She's researching an article about obsessives. Here's the galan she's planning to sic on Marina. Characteristics: Anxiety, lack of empathy, sole focus on satisfaction of own desires, not the desires of the partner.

Wow. Not exactly Match.com material. Dad however, returning from a hapless round of golf, is chuffed and totally proud of his daughter who is planning to give her patient "the life that he deserves". What a loving heart and soul she has!

On a somewhat lighter note, there's even a little antler-bashing going on at the bar. Yola is chatting with Erick and making sure he doesn't flirt too much with the patrons. After all, she's heard about his "ojo alegre" (roving eye). Erasmo steps up then and asks her to dance. Leads her off while giving Erick the "this girl is MINE look". We'll see how that plays out.

Vanessa, still in a coma, remembers the accident. In her head she hears Ed shouting after her "I'M TALKING TO YOU!" As she shouts back "LET ME GO!"


 

MIRADA #83 LUIS' FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE IS SHRINKING

Part 3

Marg, limping around and getting up for a glass of water, finds Lino collapsed on the couch. What are you doing here? Vanessa. She's been in an accident. I went to see her at hospital. Serious condition. Might not live. He's devastated. Dad is discouraged to see this sad state continues. Counsels him to be honest with Anita about what he's feeling. And talks him out of phoning Angustias to see how she's coming along. Reminds him that whatever the reasons for her marriage...she is married!

Back at the bar, things have escalated. Anita is wondering why Lino rushed off. Erasmo and Erick are wondering when and how soon they can have a knock down drag out fight. Erick reassures him that he's ready anytime anywhere...just not at his place of work.

Okay. That's out of the way. All these men are ready to rumble over the hearts and souls of their womenfolk. Love on the wild side.

Because yes, Beto has now seen Bazán at the side of Marina in the hospital and is glaring daggers at him. Ricardo brings up his endless kvetch about Beto showing up at the baptismal party. Alright guys...JUST STOP ALREADY! We get it. Sum total: Beto asks if Ricardo thinks he can win Marina's love. Ricardo says he can. End of discussion.

Wisely, Beto suggests that Marina take his mom to the cafeteria to get her some food. Prudencia, rather waspishly, retorts that she knows whether she needs to eat or not. But off they go. And find Luis.

Prudencia seizes the moment. Luis, this is a good time for you to talk to Marina. I'll wait outside. Luis protest that this is neither the time nor the place. Prudencia reminds him that for him, it's NEVER the time or the place. Do. It. Now.

And he does.

Marina asks, Do you have the courage to admit what you did?

Yes. I shot him.

The episode ends with Marina looking horrified and disgusted. And Luis, befuddled and chastened.

Quite a switch from our conquering, all powerful landowner of previous episodes.
 

MIRADA #83 LUIS' FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE IS SHRINKING

Part 4

The trio of Yola, Erasmo and a worried Anita are returning home. Erasmo thinks Erick's new cocktail Morena de Fuego is "ni fu ni fa" (nothing special). The girls beg to differ. They bring Lino his guitar and learn that his precipitous exit from the bar was because Vanessa was in the hospital. Anita's face darkens.

Things are pretty dark back at the hospital cafeteria also.

You're a criminal, sneers Marina. -It was an accident. -You shot a man. A man who had always cared for you. -You have to understand how frightened I was. I ran and got help for him. If my dad hadn't gotten him to a hospital and given him the best of care, he would have been a vegetable. -Why didn't you help him afterwards? -Because my dad said no. -You ran away from your responsibility. Like an Ocaranza! He could have worked but you forbade him from even being near the ranch. He DID work. At the cemetery. -You have to understand. Attitudes were different then. We didn't understand!In those days we thought handicapped people were useless. -
Yes, just like your attitude that I was useless because of my blindness!

What bothers me the most, continues Marina, is that you have no heart. No compassion. You never let him near the ranch.

Put yourself in my shoes! Try to understand me.

Even if I could, I don't care. What you did was unforgivable. Turning towards Prudencia, who has come back, Marina adds "Let's go. I don't want to be near him."

Whew. That was rough. Luis had it coming. But it was hard to watch.
 

MIRADA #83 LUIS' FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE IS SHRINKING

Erasmo and Yola yell at Lino for ditching Anita to run to the hospital. Margarito lauds his son for being honest with his novia however. But Yola is pissed, "You're still in love with her!"

And Anita is devastated. She's talking to Mom and admitting that even though she knows Vanessa is seriously injured, she's angry and jealous. Yes, Lino was truthful. But in the end, she thinks it was a mistake to pressure him into being novios. Alas, it was, pobrecita. The guy is still hooked on our Vane.

Back at the hospital, Nightmare Mom Chucha is denying Lino was ever there to see Vanessa (she has a vague memory of Lino talking to her while still in a coma) and is coaching the hapless girl to Get Her Story Straight. It Was An Accident! Anything about your fights with Ed you have to keep Secret!!!! Here's exactly what you have to say....

And Prudencia is reassuring Marina that Toribio will have all his needs met. Beto adds that he asked his father about the shooting and he was told he had nothing to do with it. "He lied, Doctor" snaps Marina. Beto vows then that he'll make Luis pay. And has to watch helplessly as Bazán swoops in to take Marina home.

More trouble for Luis as an angry Beto confronts him. He begs off, blaming his own father for dictating the course of action. Sure, easy to blame your dad since he's dead!

Prudencia puts an end to the discussion, reassuring Alberto once again that Toribio will be taking care of and compensated for all his sufferings. And maybe the good Dr. Zambudio (Lucrecia that is) will be able to help him. Doubt that this is on Lucreepy's A list. Her real focus is to reunite Doc Sotero and Marina in Unholy Something or Other.

Luis, in one last snarl, finds fault with his wife. You must be happy about all the shame that has come to the name Ocaranza. Prudencia is unmoved and replies simply "If you ever want to return to the vecindad and see your grandson, you will have to tell the truth and take care of Toribio.

Well, Hells Bells, that was another really wearing, unpleasant episode. What happened to our fun and games with this one? Fasten your seat belts Patio, because I think the ride is going to be pretty rough for a while.
 

Glad you gals are well stocked in Adult Beverages. This may be more effective than ice cream dealing with the sturm und drang to come. I brought home a cheesecake dessert from the restaurant (remember Golden Girls?) so that will have to tide me over.

Thanks Diana and Anita for your kind and interesting comments this afternoon. I've been out most of the day and evening but am ready to put my feet up now.
 

MIRADA

Thank you for another great recap, Judy. My favs:

” Chucha, who's about as sympathetic as cholera…
” But years of high-handed and unkind treatment have left him with no emotional capital to bank on.” Ooooh, well said.

Well, my telenovela beanie hat flew off my head today when Edson was still alive in the hospital, after seeing that empty open eyed stare yesterday. QTH?

Keeping Ed around served no purpose for the plot, now that Vane grew a spine. “Inconvenient spouse” is right, Judy. At least he and his mother got to say “goodbye.” And I almost cried (for real) for Hilda. I like her. It’s just a story! It’s just a story!

But wow, were the wheels ever turning in Chucha’s head when she learned Ed died, calculating if or how much Vane might inherit as his widow.

Kudos for Lino for being honest with Anita, after returning from the hospital. He already learned his lesson about lying to others and the value of telling the truth.

That dirty look Beto gave Bazan after yet another antler-bashing was a hoot.

”. . . this has been over for years, all it needs now is to throw the dirt on it, and let it rest in piece.“
Nina – You tell it like it is! LOL
 

MIRADA

Judy, it sounds as though you've had another long day yet you found the time to craft another excellent summary. Time to take a bit of a well deserved break.

Many eye catching phrases as always - pure pleasure.

For some reason, "Having dispatched Lino like a bad smell" made me laugh out loud. "emotional capital", "ojo alegre" (roving eye)", "Prudencia, rather waspishly" (what a great word) were all great.

Sounds as though this journey is a bumpy road right now. When these stories start losing altitude, it takes some time to straighten out and fly right.

Yet, with you piloting the recaps, there is nothing lost and everything gained with your beautiful, fluid writing.

Sleep well.

Diana
 

MIRADA

Great recap, JudyB! Well done!

Chucha is heartless. I’m surprised her blunt statement to Vanessa of Edson’s death didn’t send Vane into a full blown panic attack. I do think Vane is/will be at least a little affected by Ed’s death not because she had feelings for him but because she’s not heartless like her mother and I’m sure she’d support Hilda in any way she can.

Ric had no right questioning why Beto went to the vecindad to see Marg instead of making Marg go to his office in the hospital or whatever. Beto is doing a good deed by helping someone who he considers family.

Luis doesn’t deserve any sympathy. I didn’t like his excuse of “put yourself in my shoes.” That doesn’t justify his actions. He better help Toribio.

Kudos to Lino for telling Anita the truth even if it’s painful for her. In the Yola/Erick/Erasmo love triangle I think I might be Team Erick right now.
 

JudyB you brung it again.

Lousey isn't the big kahuna anymore. He never was, except in his day head.
I will be so glad when moochie gets
Knocked down a few, no a lot of pegs.
What a lousey unfit mother&human being
She is.

I don't know what ed was apoligizing to moma hilda for but he should have ask her to tell vanesa he was sorry.
"We hardly knew ye ed, but what we knew was unpleasant. Still..." Yeah well, next!

It's so good to see Marina look her no
Account coward of a father in the eye
And tell him how useless he is. He was
Raised a coward and a wimp. Anx even tho beto is mot hiz boo son, he's abit
Of wimp too. He's so good at showing
Comfort to other people, why didn't he
Show marina some comfort after that ol
Freak in the mask abused her.

"Reminds him, whatever the reason for her marriage......she is married". But
Not anymore,he'll find that out later.

That dress that pru had on is a church
Dress. Ain't nothing sexy about it at all. Very grandmotherly. I love how she is with lousey, he don't shake her
At all. And when she finds out about his sheet wrestlin with the mooch she gonna lite into him like a f5 on a hot
Summer day. That's actually a very un-
Forgiving hurricane(f5).

Ok stuff is happening. It'll Probly get worst before it gets better.
Thank JudyB
 

MIRADA

Good point, Nina, about Pru's matronly dress. I first noted it at the baptism and wondered what the message is from the writers & wardrobe dept.
 

MIRADA

I'll join everyone in loving your avatar doris.

Just great!!

Diana
 

"MIRADA":

Judy: Don Jackass had a friendship circle ?
 

Good Morning Patio! I'm about to get a visit from my own little hurricane grandson so I wanted to jump in and chat with you before the whirlwind hits.

Doris...Yes, it was heartbreaking to witness Hilda's grief (it's just a story, just a story!) and what a contrast to Chucha's reaction to severely injured daughter (what's the bottom line on the inheritance? and for gawd's sake get your story straight). The woman has a cash register for a heart.

Diana..Loved your description of this story as "losing altitude". Honestly, if I weren't recapping, I'd take a break from watching right now. Beto is not the only wuss. I hate seeing grief, loss and humiliation portrayed. I'd much rather focus on the bright and beautiful. But needs must. These telenovelas always go dark before the final happy (if a bit bedraggled) ending.

TF....Yep, you and I are in absolute agreement. I too thought Ricardo had no right to question Beto's arrival in the vecindad to talk personally with Margarito. I thought it was a gesture of kindness and respect to a man who had served his father faithfully for years. And witnessing the baptismal party simply added to Beto's shame and discomfort for his past behavior. Gave him no advantage at all. Erasmo keeps fighting for Yola, but...like you...I think it's a lost cause.

Nina...You always come up with some phrases that tickle me. Lousey isn't the Big Kahuna anymore would be a great title for a recap. Maybe I should call you before I start writing. Sheet wrestling with the Mooch was another dilly. Thanks for always spicing up the blog line.

Steve...Don Luis has always been surrounded by people impressed with his power and lineage. But the shine is off now. And while he's been unfaithful to Prudencia, I think deep down he is very emotionally dependent on her. Cheap little Chucha is no substitute for a real woman of class and integrity. The cheese stands alone.
 

MIRADA

I am going out on a limb with this . . . Don Luis, by coming clean about what he did to Toribio, and IF he makes amends by doing right by Tori -as best he can - has the possibility of redemption. Prodigal son message of turning one's life around, forgiveness, and that it's never too late to right a wrong and change your ways. The older classic telenovelas often carry this message.

(OTOH, he could just keep nosediving straight into eternal hell, arm in arm with Chucha)
 

Judy - enjoy your hurricane of a grandson today! We lovingly refer to our granddaughter as our "---------nado." 💗
 

MIRADA

JudyB, you keep whipping out these stellar recaps...and you make is seem so easy when I know it's not; and it can be very tiring. Thank you for being such an exceptional recap warrior princess and an outstanding patio leader. Your responses to everyone are always filled with your wisdom and insight. You are a true gem!

Doris, "Keeping Ed around served no purpose for the plot, now that Vane grew a spine." ITA I sure hope Vane's spine is now strong and bold enough to tell Chooch to BUG OFF (I was actually thinking of a stronger word, but I must hold my tongue :-) I am SO hoping that Vane doesn't allow her so-called mother to manipulate her into doing something really stupid that could get her into worse trouble. And, "That dirty look Beto gave Bazan after yet another antler-bashing was a hoot." Yup it was, but what makes bazan think he can order Beto to stay away from the vecindad??? WhoTH does he think he is?? Fine, he is helping Marina, but he's getting outta hand IMO.


Diana, "Sounds as though this journey is a bumpy road right now." It sure is, but it's nice to share it with you despite the fact that you can't watch this with us.

TF, "Ric had no right questioning why Beto went to the vecindad " I wrote my first paragraph before reading your comment...HIGH FIVE!!

Nina, "I will be so glad when moochie gets
Knocked down a few, no a lot of pegs.
What a lousey unfit mother&human being
She is." Ahhh, Nina, you say it best!!

Doris, Doris, Doris..."I am going out on a limb with this . . . Don Luis, by coming clean about what he did to Toribio, and IF he makes amends by doing right by Tori -as best he can - has the possibility of redemption." I wish I could be as optimistic as you are, but I believe the ONLY reason Luase would help out Tori is to be allowed to see his grandson. OTOH, in the bible, Rafael, is the archangel of healing; so your point is well taken :-)

Enjoy your your day, Patio! I'm off to do some mowing before the scorching heat comes in.




 

Rgv Chick...I love your reminder that Rafael is the archangel of healing. And to be honest, I don't like to see anybody "lost". I would prefer that somehow don Luis, after shame, humiliation and reparations, would be chastised but redeemed. I'm trying to stretch my heart to even want to see Susanita redeemed but I can't quite get there! Nor can I with Lucrecia and Doc Sotero. But Luis has flashes of charm and vulnerability. The other three characters are obsessive and one dimensional in their self-centeredness.
And I just flat out don't like 'em!
 

Oh and Chickie, I sure do hope that you have a riding mower at least! Doesn't make it any less hot in Texas but still.....
 

Doris...the house and li'l Will just survived two hours of non-step climbing, jumping, button pushing (he can turn the answering machine on and off; ditto for the washer and dryer), the TV and the computer. Busy doing that as well as opening all the dangerous drawers, shaking my husband's medication pill bottles and snacking. Up and down the steep stairs innumerable times. But getting "my steps" in and also my love hugs. All good. They keep us exhausted...but also very very happy.
 

MIRADA

Erasmo-Erick-Erasmo-Erick...Yola has a huge decision to make. She has a career in mind, not living at the ranch, wife of a ranch hand.

Erasmo's Pros - Hard working, kind, honest, loyal to his friends, gentlemanly, fierce when protecting his woman, knows a few dance moves on the floor
Erasmo's Cons - No sex appeal whatsoever, just a nice guy, few skills outside of mucking stalls and pushing wheelbarrows.

Erick's Pros - Lots of sex appeal, knows how to flatter a woman, keeps a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye, has made a career-changing decision and though it helps his self-esteem, won't pay the rent for two.
Erick's Cons - Has been under his dadda's firm hand too long, would like to make money without working too hard, womanizer (at least in the past).

TF--everything you said makes sense, including, "Ric had no right questioning why Beto went to the vecindad to see Marg instead of making Marg go to his office in the hospital or whatever. Beto is doing a good deed by helping someone who he considers family." I suspect he HOPED to catch a glimpse of Marina while on his "good deed mission." I don't think he knew that Margaro et al had moved to their own apt. And he "probably" didn't know there was a fiesta going on.

As for Moochie (I'd forgotten she got a new moniker that fits her better), she's the one I hope falls the farthest, maybe not off a cliff, but in the eyes of her social circle. I really wonder if she would come clean to Luis that she has NOTHING to her name but debts and a few pieces of jewelry.

I hope Vane tells the police investigators the truth--that she was running away from an abusive husband of, what, two weeks? It took a bit of a beanie adjustment for me to believe the spa had a locked gate, but did have a low wall overlooking a patio with a Limpid Pool. Those two sure had a lot of stairs to descend, I'll say that much for their endurance.

Edson, RIP. I will, however, treasure your portrayal of Jana's lower-class love, Lorenzo, in Un Refugio.
 

MIRADA
To JudyB--echoing and dittoing RGV, "recap warrior princess and an outstanding patio leader. Your responses to everyone are always filled with your wisdom and insight. You are a true gem!" Right ON!
 

Anita...Sure do love my Recapping Teammates. Best support group ever.

I enjoyed your analysis of the Erick-Erasmo duo. And you're right, hadn't thought of it, but Erasmo does not exude sex appeal. And neither does Anita. So if we get those two together, will any sparks fly? Or will it just be a soggy "better you than nobody". Do hope that this duo can mutually repair their self-esteem which has to be suffering right now.

And in true telenovela style, I'm just SURE that our Morena de Fuego is going to whip Mr. Erick into line. And maybe make him go back to school to study something that really interests him. If he let his dad boss him around, he's definitely going to be putty in her capable hands. She has all the makings of a very cute little Boss Lady.
 

PS Not remembering his role in Un Refugio para el amor? Nor a character named Jana. If there a different Refugio show or is my memory just absolutely hopeless?
 

JudyB--Jana or Hannah was the younger sister of Pato and Rodrigo Torreslanda. Their parents were Maximiliano and Roselena (she of the stigmata). Lorenzo was Luciana's younger brother who fell in love with Hannah at first sight, or so.

So much of that tn was stretched so thin as to be almost unbelievable, but for some reason it just sticks in my mind and I keep seeing scenes from it in my head. I actually tolerated Gabriel Soto in that one and in Caer en Tentacion.

Laura Flores played the mother. Then she played Eugenio Siller's (unknown to him) mother in Reina de Corazones. What an actress!
 

Ahhhh Anita...it's slowly coming back to me now. Glad our actor got to play a sweet guy and not just the abusive naco churl that he was in this one. I fear we won't get to see much of Hilda now. Or not the crazy having-fun Hilda that I adored. But I'd still love to see her go after Chooch the Mooch and do some serious damage.

You know what I remember about Hannah (or Jana)? The awful black nail polish she wore to her wedding. It did not look good with the white, virginal wedding dress. Ay yi yi, the things that stick in one's mind!
 

MIRADA

JudyB, thank you for this excellent recap of some yucky, unpleasant stuff. As Rgv Chickie said, you're "such an exceptional recap warrior princess".

Anyway, I thought Big Ed was dead at the hotel. But no, he had to have his goodbye-to-Mom scene, and I admit it was touching. Now that he's croaked I suppose I should call him Edson.

I'm a little concerned and confused about Vanesa and Lino. I have said a couple of times that I did not approve of Lino's just letting Vanesa marry, um, Edson. Lino's a good guy, but he kinda contributed to the Vanesa/Edson sham of a marriage situation. And I don't much like the idea of his just dumping Anita now. But these devilish Mirada writers enjoy leading us on and playing with us. I don't know if it's over yet with Anita. But rats! Lino and Vanesa were destined for each other, right?

Another one giving me problems is Beto. Beto is not totally rotten like Louse or Doc Mask, not at all. But he was terrible with Marina. Has he begun a comeback? That would be good so long as he stays away from our little daffodil because I'm still rooting for Ricky Bazán for her.

I think enough has been said about Louse for now.

andy
 

MIRADA 83
Just watched episode. Haven’t yet read your recap JudyB. Saving for dessert tonight
Just a few comments
I believe Luis said initially that he could not control the recoil of the shot as he was not strong enough
I’m not sure how they are explaining it now, other than it happened

Marina is very like her father

So Doc Mask May go for a new face instead of a new sock? Good decision!

We were given a full dose of novella medicine. NO mask. Why do they even have monitors? No one comes until they are called by a panicky family member who then refuses to leave the room so doctors can try to revive patient

Let’s face it, Edson was a goner as soon as we saw him lying with his eyes open on the concrete

Sorry if I echoed previous comments. Going to read later
Mely

 

MIRADA

Andy - with Edson out of the way, I would put money on Lino and Vane getting together for realz by the Gran Fin.
Anita could take Erasmo. They're each other's speed.
Yola needs to dump the chump (aimless Erik) and get that law degree. If Erik has gotten his act together by then, she has my blessings.
 

Hola Andy. We were missing you, compadre. Too much rum raisin last night?
These couplings and un-couplings are hard on us sensitive souls, so yes, I hurt when I think of Anita's disappointment, and I also hurt when I think about Vanessa's cold rejection by Lino. But then I go even further back and think about the hurt and humiliation Vanessita laid on Paulino, in between passionate kiss fests.

Coward that I am, I didn't even watch when Beto was being a lowdown skunk with Marina. So I'm less likely to rant on that score. Ric seems a little old for her. But as a sadder but wiser guy (divorce and all that) maybe he's a better bet in the long run.

Ms. Mely...perfectly alright if you echo other's comments. We're all just chiming in here and repeats are fine. Regardless of Luis' various explanations of how the shooting happened, I think everybody in his orbit might be willing to give him a pass after 30 years, EXCEPT that his subsequent neglect and abuse of the once faithful ranch hand is the real thing that sticks in everybody's craw. So...no soup for you! Louse!

Hmmm...I like being thought of as somebody's dessert.

Doris...Hopefully Erick will rise to the occasion and be worthy of Yola professionally as well as romantically. I would certainly want them to have your blessings! As for the dropped masks, it IS nice for us who are trying to read lips as well as closed captions. The sound on our old TV is even worse than the picture.
 

MIRADA
Andy--I was going to write what subsequently JudyB said better than I could about the hurtful way Vanessa rejected Lino, both at the ranch and in town--always underscoring their social and financial differences--for whatever underlying reason.

She was not being true to herself, though. We don't know what she might have decided had she been free to make her own choice. Many of us have made the right choice for the wrong reasons and vice versa. Would she see far enough into the future to see herself by Lino's side, regardless of fame and fortune as a singer, a hard life for spouses or partners as it is.

But, like Don Louse, who was under pressure from his father's not so lofty morals to tow the line, Vane was being choked by her mother's yoke and afraid to oppose her openly, to follow her heart. I do believe that Vane's upbringing DID get her accustomed to luxury without having to work for it, so the idea of being with someone whose prospects were not that great (the exception being organic avocados, but Luis would have kept the profits anyway), was not that great.
 

MIRADA
I forgot my main theme--I consider that Lino was still smarting from her little rich girl rejection, not knowing the true reason, was why he was so cold to her. This might be one of the times we have to fit our beanies more snuggly around our chins so it doesn't fall off. I actually agree--he was too cold after all Vane's attempts to tell him how she really felt and how much she loved him. Lino's reaction was probably reasonable--if she felt that way about him, why was she marrying that naco jerk? Vane had no answer for him.
 

Today's recap is now up on the new board. Have fun with it Patio.

And Anita, thanks for that helpful analysis of the many, myriad ways that Vanessa has rejected Paulino. They could never get their reconciliation vibes going at the same time, unfortunately.