Caray, Caray!

So JudyB can enjoy another Prosecco without worrying about Parts 1 or 3, your intrepid reporter will be covering the action today in...wherever it takes place (she will have her tennies on and maybe use a scooter).

Since I have to watch these dagnabbit stories twice before recapping and I have a dentist appointment at the happy hour of 2:45 (just a cleaning, just a cleaning), the recap will probably be delayed until the real happy hour. Chau amigos.

RGV--Thanks for the update on Star. I haven't said anything, but I felt it. It reminded me of when our cat got bitten by another cat who lived across the hall. We didn't take much notice until a day or two later we saw she was limping. Her leg was swollen and she had an abcess that needed treatment--this at a time when we had no money for emergencies, nor credit cards (recently separated). We made it work. My neighbor downstairs was a cat lover and knew the vet. She paid him and we paid her back in installments. Companion animals do become members of the family and we will do most anything for their well-being.
 

OT

Anita, "Companion animals do become members of the family and we will do most anything for their well-being" was well said and oh so true.

It was heartening to read your story. I know it was a while ago but I'm happy to know there are still kind and caring folks to help when there is little hope and few if anyone to turn to. That made my day - thank you.

Diana
 

ANITA

"Companion animals do become members of the family and we will do most anything for their well-being."
This is so true. And it hurts so bad when one is sick, injured, or they pass away.
 

Good Afternoon everyone--This episode has inspired me to write several columns worth of words, so there will be a delay in posting. Hang in there, though.

To tantalize you just a bit, the headline above the fold will be, "Tomorrow is Another Day--Better Watch Out." Also, turn to Page A-4 for this late-breaking news flash: Luis Ocaranza has fallen in love, for real this time.
 

OT - Diana
That wonderful neighbor turned into a true friend and we still see each other occasionally.
 

OT

Anita, as others did, I must acknowledge ""Companion animals do become members of the family and we will do most anything for their well-being." is so true. I don't have (human) children so my furry and feathery companions are that much more special. It's amazing how much pain our little companions can withstand. Your cat, as did Star, demonstrated so much tolerance for their pain. Had I not taken Star to the vet, I would never have known she had other puncture wounds and the big gash.

Doris, I explained what happened to Star on the previous page earlier today, but it was somewhat late in the morning, so you may not have seen it.

To respond to Nina who asked (on the previous page) if the owner of the big dog paid for the vet--yes, he did and he felt really bad about the incident.


 

So glad the owner of the big dog paid for the vet Rgv Chick. We will indeed do anything for our beloved pets, but sometimes the vet bills can be staggering, in addition to the pain of our pets and our worry about them.
 

And thanks for posting her picture. She's a cutie. And looks feisty too. Always a positive.

Love your teaser headlines Anita! Can't wait.
 

OT

RgvChick - thank you. I just now went back to the previous page and read about it. Oh how horrible for Star and for you! I simply cannot imagine what a nightmare that was. I hope Star will mend quickly. Please give her a hug for me and lots of smoochies.
It was very nice (and responsible) for the other dog's owner to pay the vet bills. These days, people with good character like that are hard to find. If you gad to have bad luck, you were very lucky (in the money part of it).
 

"MIRADA":

My personal thoughts on today's episode:

1.) Marina & Vanessa have a heart-to-heart talk.

2.) Vanessa looked like she aged 13+ years.

3.) Prudencia & Don Jackass arrived to see Marina's baby.

4.) Creepy Doc & LuCrazy scheming & plotting.

5.) Don Jackass attempting to spoil (or brainwash) the baby, who looked like he needed to get out of there ASAP.

6.) Beto walk in Don Jackass spoiling the baby.

7.) LuCrazy obsessed with Beto.

8.) Where are Marina's friends ?

9.) Buji Suzy from HoVille shaking hands with some farmland help. Wonder what that's all about.

10.) If I have to guess Buji Suzy from HoVille will up the ante even further all the way until the end.

11.) Prudencia walks in on Buji Suzy doing the FAKE waterworks.

12.) I see Marina still has her job at the hospital for now.

13.) More scheming from LuCrazy. Does this girl have any family members ?

14.) Vanessa wants a job at Don Jackass company ? Run girl run!

15.) Some of the patients going crazy as Marina watches.

16.) Vanessa eye-googling with Lino.


 

MIRADA
I'm sorry this is so late. I was having so much fun with the episode. There are 13 legal pad pages filled with the recap. It'll be up, maybe not so soon.

Thanks, Steve, for putting up such clever one-liners.
 

Steve, number 15. I think was about tori rating out ramonaaaaa. He was really lighting into her. And marina came in, and doc Munoz(I can't ever pronounce his name or spell it right).
Anyhoo, lol he pulled her wig off and
She grabbed it and hitailed it outta there. I like the way her hair was braided. She actually looked like an adult. Sound like he was acusing her of spying on marina for setero, and she was. The mask is gonna be pist at her. Marina questioned her and munoz did too. We'll know more she the recap
Is up. I think that's what 15 was about Steve and yall.
 

Oopsy,...When the recap is up.
 

NINA - I was yelling at Tori to pull her wig off .... and he did! I was shocked that he heard me. LOL
 

He must have heard us both. Ha Ha Ha!
I really liked the way her hair was braided. She really looked good. I hope she don't put that wig back on or put her hair in that gawd horrid pony
Tail style.
 

MIRADA
Monday, 8/5 – Some scenes combined where it makes sense
Epi #96- Part 1 of 5 or 6

We begin with a rewind of the end of Alberto’s heartfelt confession to Marina explaining, again, why he just couldn’t step up to the plate and take a swing on that unborn child situation. He struck out and he knows it. He clearly wants a chance to get to first base as he whispers in her ear that she will forever be the love of his life. Marina’s heart skips a beat and begins pounding, but she turns away to find the man who gave her a 2d chance waiting for her. Second Chance Guy is worried he’ll be out of the game soon, so he swears he won’t pressure her for details on how it went with No. 1 Guy. He tries to lock in his position with a hug. As they exit, he mentions that Rapunzel has been waiting, disguised in dark glasses, her flowing locks everywhere in evidence. For some reason, Beto doesn’t see her. Well, Tomorrow is Another Day.

Lino and Erasmo are sitting in the middle of the courtyard of the vecindad, instead of talking in a nice quiet bar, someone’s apartment, the plaza where the fountain and Lino play, they are loudly discussing Lino’s double vision when it comes to Vane and Anita (no, not me, but I wouldn’t mind being in her place for at least one kiss). Anita, of course, is descending the stairs and overhears Lino admitting that whenever Vane is near, he kinda loses it. Erasmo urges him to recognize his feelings for Vane haven’t been extinguished and he should go for it. Lino denies that the near kiss wasn’t a kiss at all. Anita stands there, mid stairs, stung by his words, turns around and hightails it back upstairs, even though she heard him say he won’t fail Anita.

Anita tells her ma what she heard Lino say about Vane. Doña Toolbelt gives her a pep talk about Lino and how that is all in the past, whilst giving her tools a workout. Anita doesn’t think Lino will ever love her the way he loves Vane. DT gives her the universal rule against giving away the WD-40 for free. She tells Anita she’s a decent girl, meant to get married, form a family and make sure that for now, Lino keep his rusty screwdriver away from her WD-40 until it’s time. Ay, yi, yi, Doña, you only gave Anita some tools to rearrange in her mind.

Baldo gets home and there’s just enough time for him to bathe before dinner. Anita scurries past him. He senses something is not right. Chole remarks, who hasn’t cried over love. Well, Tomorrow is Another Day.
 

Monday, 8/5
Epi #96- Part 2 of several

Vane is trying to use her powers of persuasion to get Record Label Agent Guy to foot the bill for Lino’s demo. He’s sorry, but he can’t work for free—too many up-front costs. She asks for a few days and will get back to him. Angustia just “happens” to be at Vane’s door and wonders what she needs money for. Vane smiles. Angie figures it’s to help Lino with a leg up in the music world, but how can she do it without any financial resources now that Edson’s golden door is closed. Vane shows her the diamond engagement ring. She’s going to hock it, even if she never gets it back, it wasn’t really hers anyway. Angie suggests Vane approach Don Luis for a job in his business. What, says Vane, and see Lino every day? That would hurt too much. Angie is sure that it won’t be a daily occurrence, since Luis doesn’t actually go to the office every day, so she should at least give it a try. Well, Tomorrow is Another Day.

In a cozy setting in Marina’s apartment in the vecindad, Don Luis, along with Prudencia for support, proposes that Marinita and Rafita come to their place until this mess is all cleared up. Prude backs him up. Marina says that Beto plans to present himself for his paternity test, so all they have left to do is wait for the date of the preliminary hearing. Doc Rick, meanwhile, is marking his territory in front of everyone by rubbing Marina’s shoulders. (Shock, JudyB, Doris and the rest of the Patio—Marina is holding little Rafa.) Damiana thinks they will be ok where they are. The locks have been changed and the back-up plan is for them to go to Doc Rick’s house or his mother’s apartment. Luis steps up his game. He declares there’s no place safer for Marina and his grandson than their house. Even Rafa gets a couple of words in. He seems to be in favor of spending some time with this oversized, animated bear. Luis tones it down a bit and asks Marina to see that he is trying to change and he’d be very happy if she came to the house. Marina accepts, looking and saying yes to her mother. Dam immediately pipes up saying she’s coming with her. Slightly taken off balance, Luis comes back with a gracious welcome to her. That settled, Luis grabs a torn cardboard box and tells Marina to get her things together and they can leave immediately. Well, Tomorrow is Another Day.

Well, well, look who we haven’t looked in on for awhile. It’s none other than Lazaro the Lizard, working on—no—cooking the books. Surprise! SutheMooch, now SutheSchemer, has paid him a most inopportune visit. She takes one look at two items in one book and determines he’s been stealing his patrón blind. She doesn’t buy his explanation that suppliers inflate their prices and his inability to do anything about it. She tells him to shove it. She knows exactly how this scheme works—it takes all the suppliers to agree on what they will charge and then they divide up what they’ve skimmed. She looks at him. She has a plan that doesn’t involve squealing on each other. She wonders out loud how much money they could reap if the avocado harvest was lost. Lazarizard just stares, mulling it over. SutheSchemer is quite direct. Lazarizard is not sure it’ll work out the way she planned. He reminds her that if he goes down, she goes down. She brushes off the thought as inconsequential. Don Luis will never know. She’ll get other suppliers. (Not sure how this scheme is supposed to work, but I’ll go along with it for now, since the business editor is currently in NYC.) They agree to split it 50-50.
 

Monday, 8/5
Epi #96- Part 3 of several

Beto gets home and all he wants to do is replay Marina’s words to him. They sting, and so they should, but the last thing he want to have his self-flagellation interrupted is the other woman in his life. The one who really wields the whip. She doesn’t care he’s discombobulated—the interrogation begins:
Rap-How did it go with Marina?
Bet-We cleared up some things.
Rap-What things?
Bet-Nothing that involves you.
Clearly dissatisfied by his answers, she hears him move on. He needs to call her lawyer to find out which of the labs are authorized by the court for the paternity test. Rapunzel assumes the news has put Marina at ease. No answer. Awkward silence follows. Rap dives into the vacuum and asks if he won’t invite her to have something to drink. He apologizes for not being a good host, but he lets Eric take the blame—he drinks up everything. Water will be ok. Obviously, she wants to stay and get more out of her reluctant lover.

Back in the vecindad, Marina is packing a nice leather suitcase we’ve never seen before. Simultaneously, she’s holding a conversation with Damiana, telling her she needn’t accompany her to the manse. She should stay and care for Margarito. There will be plenty of caring folks at the big house to care for Rafa. Yola checks in and asks Marina if she really wants to go to Don Luis’ house. Marina says yes, who better than Luis to bar the door to Doc Mask. Then her face lights up as she tells Yola about the civilized conversation she had with Beto—but that doesn’t mean they’ll ever be friends (yeah—just wait until Epi #110 or so).

Don Luis and Prude welcome Marina and Rafa to their home. Luis’ bluster is now a gentle wind and we are prone to believe his sincerity when he sits Marina and Rafa down and tells her how wrong he was about her. He was the blind one; he didn’t realize what a great woman she was; he wishes he could reverse time. Marina snaps that it’s too late. We know what she meant, but she corrects herself when he looks at his watch. Marina hugs Rafa and wants more than anything for Beto to be Rafa’s daddy. (Hmm. Is her protective shell cracking when it comes to Don Luis and Beto?)

Beneath the down hanging lights, Rapunzel paces, wine glass in hand, down hanging hair and pent up anger and hate permeating all the rest of the available space. Well, Tomorrow is Another Day.
 

Monday, 8/5
Epi #96- Part 4 of several

Vane and Marina run into each other in the hall that night. They stop to talk and end up besties—at least as long as they are in the house together. Vane asks to be forgiven for any transgressions or hurtful words towards Marina and she, in turn, says already forgiven. They tell each other how strong they are and how each will overcome adversity. Vane slips and says now she knows why Beto is so in love with Marina. Marina catches her breath. They end up skirting around the subject of Lino and Anita and Marina leaves to take care of Rafa. She replays Beto’s confessions then lies down with Rafa. Well, Tomorrow is Another Day.

Oh, oh, Anita is propositioning Lino in somebody’s bedroom. How could she not listen to Doña Toolbelt, the wisest woman in the whole vecindad. Lino asks if she’s sure. Anita says she’s been thinking about this for a long time. He turns out the light and they begin to kiss. He stops and asks if they shouldn’t talk about this. Well, I guess Lino takes her at her word. We are favored with some shirtlessness, but the subsequent scene is not forthcoming. Anita doesn’t even wait for him to take her blouse off before she pulls him down on the bed. We are left with a did he or didn’t he? Well, Tomorrow is Another Day.


Finally – Tomorrow is HERE!
Yola quizzes Lino on his whereabouts the night before, he was so late. He gives a lame excuse about taking Anita to a fancy restaurant, even though he can’t remember the name of it. Anita is having the same trouble with her ma, only in her version, they went for tacos after Lino finished at the bar. Ma tells her she’s a decent girl and has a curfew and Lino had better know it. Anita looks quite guilty – about something. (Darn—but, I guess if Vane had to do it with Edson, Lino gets to do it with Anita to be even. The only problem is Edson is dead and Anita isn’t.)

Hildy Baranski shows up at the police station to squeal on Vane only to find out Vane has already squealed on herself. Hildy is a bit put out when they tell her there’s no jail time for amending testimony. Just a fine. Caso Cerrado. Hildy aims at Vane telling her there’s no way she’s going to get any of Edson’s inheritance and she’ll fight her on it. Vane says she doesn’t want anything from Edson and she’s willing to sign an affidavit attesting to that and Vane is willing to be of any help she needs. Hildy’s balloon slowly deflates, but she’s still very hurt.

Rapunzel calls Doc Nasty to report on Marina and Beto’s meet ‘n greet. Doc Nasty isn’t too worried about it because Marina isn’t the type two string along two guys at the same time. She warns him he needs to do everything legally so it won’t backfire. He will call his lawyer to see what they can come up with. Rap suggest his heart problems could be used to his advantage.
 

Monday, 8/5
Epi #96- Part 5 of 6

Hmm, while Marina goes off to work, it’s Grampa Luis who gets to babysit Rafa. He’s having a great time explaining to Rafa how to kill an elephant. Rafa is entranced. Beto arrives and the two men keep handing Rafa back and forth. Beto sits down with the baby and looks at him lovingly. He realizes Marina was right—just holding him endears him. Meanwhile Grampa is jumping with joy, taking selfies and more photos than his phone can hold. Yep, he’s in love with the little tyke, for sure.

Marina is talking to Doc Rick at the office about her first night in Beto’s room. (Even that bit of information is enough to make Rick jealous.) Everything went well, she says, even Luis was on his best behavior. Toribio, who is with them warns her about believing him. Rick says it’s a temporary situation any way. Rick gives Tori some money to go get coffee and snacks. Marina only hopes Luis keeps his distance since he’s just a bad influence. (Ha! If she could only see him now. He’s having a ball with that baby.) When Pru joins them, she gets into it and more photos are snapped. Luis introduces Angie to Rafa as his great-great-great grandmother, but all in good humor. A business call interrupts all this harmony and he leaves for the office. Beto gets the baby and he says he feels the baby is his (Now, where have we heard that before, Mister.)

As Tori heads for the vending machines, he spies someone he knows. We all know how he gets when confronted with a “mala persona.” This time it’s no different. So, hurrah, Ramona has been unmasked, or de-wigged. Doc Muñoz enters the fray. They have to pry Tori off of her and take her to Dr. Muñoz’s office. There she denies any and all relationship she may or may not have had with Doc Wrinkle Face. Muñoz addresses her and says that he’s now on Marina’s side and promises to get to the bottom of this through H.R. records. He moves toward the computer and Ramona grabs her wig and bolts before anyone can grab her.

Marina’s attorney gives her some bad news. Apparently due to the stress on his heart, the preliminary hearing has been moved up to the next day. Unfortunately she doesn’t have all the docs from Rio de Valle that she needs. She’ll leave right now and won’t move until they give her what she needs. On the other hand, Marina has another choice—not show up. It would look bad, but at least they wouldn’t show up empty handed.
 

Monday, 8/5
Epi #96- Part 6 of 6

Vane shows up at Don Luis’ office and asks for a job, even though she knows, living in his house for now is already a burden. Nonsense says Luis. He takes her résumé. Will he or won’t he? He glosses over some of the things she’s lacking, but language and computer skills win him over. She's hired!

Oh geeze, I thought we’d seen the last of SutheSchemer, but now here she comes back in her SutheMooch garb. Oh woe is me she cries to a startled Pru. The “landlord” threw her out and is selling all the furniture to cover the back rent. He only let her take her clothes. Pru doesn’t see how she can help. Mooch blows a little black magic dust in Pru’s face. Pru tries not to succumb. Mooch has to blow some more of that dust. How about my staying here in the house with you. Pru isn’t so sure about that. Mooch falls apart. If Pru doesn’t help—and she hugs her desperately—she has nowhere to go except the streets, literally. Wow, well Tomorrow is Another Day.

Lazarizard, back at the rancho, is cutting into a perfectly good avocado. He tells one of the workers they have a plague. (Ah, sweet memories of El Tal and their Plaga—you Tarzan, me Jane and off he carries her over his shoulders.) The crop has to be fumigated immediately. He lifts the phone to call a supplier, but when the worker leaves, he just puts the phone back in its cradle.

Beto is telling the wrong person about the new date for the hearing is unexpected. Rap tells him to calm down. Beto feels Marina should go anyway just to show she’s not afraid of that man. I think Beto wants to be there for Marina, but Rapunzel says she already has plenty of people around to help her. Well, Tomorrow is Another Day.

Lino is summoned into Don Luis’ office and comes face to face with Vane. He learns she will be working there. Don Luis says congratulations are in order. Vane and Lino just look at each other. Mmm. Love is still in the air. Will they breathe in the sweetness of it?

Well, Tomorrow is Another Day. Tune in.
 

I know most of the Patio is getting ready for bed and I do apologize for how late this got posted. Been at it without a break since 5 o'clock. I gave it my all, if not my best.
 

Thank you Anita. I am posting before reading but waned you to know what a champ you are!

I am usually so late with my post that I am ahead of myself. Want to read at my leisure but had a few comments

Really odd suit on Doc B. Looked like a black velvet color on a gray suit. It’s the middle of the day! Also to complete the look a black vest. Won my heart! Not!
He was also pawing Marina’s shoulders as they were talking I think the scene with Toribio.
And what great action Toribio and Ramona saw today.

Looks like Vane and Lino at the finish line! I hope they make it legal before he hits it big

There must be a telenovela rule that something is not really said unless it is overheard Both Anita and Angie showed up so we could be sure the conversations were for real

Vane was turning down her own bed as she talked to Angie. Angie made no move to help. Conversing as equals?

Thanks again Anita for my bedtime reading!

Mely


 

Thanks Anita. Great detailed recap. I loved your “no not me” lol

I guess Chucha found her plan B. Luis for sure isn’t stupid so he’ll likely catch them eventually. If Pru lets her stay in the house, Vane better keep her distance.

Interesting to see Marina and Vane getting along. But obviously Vane would be a better, real friend as opposed to Rapunzel and her fake intentions on being Marina’s friend in the beginning. Vane is a new woman. And she will obviously being seeing Lino a lot more again.

If only Beto hadn’t been so stubborn then he’d already have been able to be close to Rafael. I loved how he put Rapunzel in her place though concerning his conversation with Marina. It was nice seeing him bond with Rafael.

Another example of Toribio NOT being crazy lol Doc Mask will not be happy when he finds out that Ramona can’t go back to the hospital.
 

MIRADA

Anita, reading one of your recaps is simply pure bliss.

So well constructed and with great humor and heart. Nothing could be better.

First, loved your recurring theme "Tomorrow is Another Day".

I could not pick one favorite line so my favorite two were "DT gives her the universal rule against giving away the WD-40 for free" and "and last thing he want to have his self-flagellation interrupted is the other woman in his life". Laughter for the heart and soul.

"pent up anger and hate permeating all the rest of the available space" deserved honorable mention as well as "oversized, animated bear" and "SutheMooch, now SutheSchemer".

I laughed out loud at "Vane and Anita (no, not me, but I wouldn’t mind being in her place for at least one kiss)". Loved it.

You worked long and hard on this Anita which was evident from every word. I'm not watching so cannot comment on the story but the recap was wonderful. Gracias!

Diana
 

MIRADA

Anita – thank you for a great recap, and such detail! My favs:
-- “Lino keep his rusty screwdriver away from her WD-40 until it’s time.”
-- “. . . but that doesn’t mean they’ll ever be friends (yeah—just wait until Epi #110 or so).”

”She takes one look at two items in one book and determines he’s been stealing his patrón blind.”
My telenovela beanie hat flew off my head when that happened. I mean, really?!? Since when is Susana a bookkeeping whiz? She sure didn’t know how to manage her own money.
Oh, right, plot propeller.

I’m ticked off at Beto the coward. He is hanging on to Lucrecia and will not turn her loose until he knows Marina is in his camp. Has this guy EVER been without a girlfriend on his arm? Sheesh!

OTOH, the Beto/Rafa scenes were really sweet.

Oh noes, Lino and Anita “did it.” Gah… I hope she is not preggers.

Vanessa comes clean with Hilda about her marriage to Edson. Vanessa does not want any of the inheritance and will sign a paper. Vanessa makes peace with Marina and wants to be friends with her. My radar is going nuts!!! When a character starts coming clean and making amends, it is almost always (emphasize *almost*) a sign that character is going to die. I am not making a CrockPot Theory™ because I simply do not want that to happen. I want a HEA for Vanessa, even if it is as a self-sufficient, successful young woman in the business world.

Pru, do NOT let that woman back into your house!!! And I want to see Susana living in a homeless shelter and working, making tacos at a taco stand. Or cleaning bathrooms at a gas station.
 

ANITA - "rusty screwdriver" indeed. LOL
 

Merciful heavens Anita! Thirteen pages of notes and "been at it without a break since 5 pm". Thanks are not enough. We need to award you s Ph.D in recapping with a summa cum laude to boot. But I know you realize how grateful I am. Yesterday I was able to enjoy the episode with nary a care, knowing it was in your capable hands.

Loved your Scarlet O'Hara "Tomorrow is another day" theme and the funny quips were coming fast and furious.

What amused me the most were the "part 1 or 5 or 6" and "part 3 of several". Ah yes, figuring out how much we can fit into each comment box is one of the many challenges of recapping in this format.

Lots of gems:


Beto gets home and all he wants to do is replay Marina’s words to him. They sting, and so they should, but the last thing he want to have his self-flagellation interrupted is the other woman in his life. The one who really wields the whip.

Pure genius. Word-wise and psychology wise.

Some others that I really enjoyed:

"now that Edson's golden door is closed"

Rafa, seeming to enjoy this "oversized animated bear". Yes, it was a delightful scene with Luis, who in real life clearly enjoys children. Tender, funny and endearing. And you captured it perfectly. My heart melted seeing Beto cradle the baby as well. If only Marina could have seen that! Well, tomorrow is another day.

Ric's jealousy being ignited when he learns Marina is sleeping in Beto's old room. Ric's little bird legs are on shaky ground. Thanks for noting it.

And Mooch blows a little black magic dust in Prudencia's eyes. Dang! Just like you, I thought we had seen the last of Mooch. How dare she weasel her way back into the big house!? Have to admire her chutzpah though. That lady is unstoppable.

As are you, Mighty Recapper. What a tour de force! Mil gracias and then some. You are a lifesaver for this old broad.
 

MIRADA

And Mely, as our visual analyst, thanks for noting Ric's Little Lord Fauntleroy suit. Way too foppish for a galan worthy of winning the fair damsel. Uuuuf!
 

MIRADA

Anita, don't fret about being late. Your recap was certainly worth the wait, thank you!

I would have never guessed that Mooch would reach out to old Zackrat...birds of a feather??? Can't wait for Don Louse to figure that one out!

I agree with everyone about the scenes with Rafa...just adorable. Who would think that a man such as the Louse would be taken by such a little one. And my heart melted too when Beto was holding him.

Doris, "Oh noes, Lino and Anita “did it.” Gah… I hope she is not preggers." Yeah, Anita is quite the little snake too...she knows how to TRY to keep Lino. I'm disappointed.

I really enjoyed seeing tha Vanessa beat Hilda to the cops. Hopeofully, this will show Hilda tha Vanessa is nothing like her mother. I'm still hopeoing that Hilda will forgive Vanessa...those two are good for each other. Doris, "When a character starts coming clean and making amends, it is almost always (emphasize *almost*) a sign that character is going to die. " Oh, noes! I'm hopeoing that your Crockpot theory is wrong this time!

If Pru is swayed by the Mooch, I will be very disappointed. I really don't think the Louse will allow...he'll overrule Pru...oooh unless the Mooch blackmails him...Ay!Ay! Ay!
 

"MIRADA":

Anita: I still would NOT trust Don Jackass if I was Marina or anybody else. That man always has ulterior motives!
 

MIRADA

Steve, you are so right about not trusting Luis.

I’m glad Mely was visually alert. I was seeing and mostly listened.

Ric is ALWAYS wearing a gray and pink shirt. I so want to see him in tee shirt and cargo shorts just once.
 

MIRADA

Anita, thank you for all the effort you put into this recap, the result is just great.

Count me as another one who is fervently hoping that Hilda and Vane can reconcile. That wouldn't be easy, but it's just possible that Hilda already knows the son she loved so much was not all that wonderful a person, especially with women. Whatever, however, I'm hoping they manage it. As Rgv Chickie said, "...those two are good for each other." And they really are, they both grew during their time working together.

Gotta run.

andy
 

MIRADA

News flash: Vanessa is now working at a local hair salon in Columbus Ohio. Seriously. Went to get my haircut today and the shampoo assistant today was a dead ringer for our Vanessa. Same hair. Same face. Same figure. It was disorienting. I kept wanting to ask her if she had worked out things with Hilda. And Lino.

They say everyone has a doppelganger and this actress certainly has one. Come to think of it, shampoo girl would be a great start for Vanessa. Lots of tips she doesn't have to declare for tax purposes, plus her own lustrous hair as an advertisement.
 

MIRADA.

Well. My post was supposed to say --- wearing a gray SUIT and pink shirt. That's what I get for trying to post from my phone and away from the house.

JudyB - oh my, a Vane lookalike must have been very unsettling.

I'm at the table of hoping Hilda will forgive Vane and they can be friends again, and Vane will return to working for her. Hilda seems like that type person, but we will have to wait and see what the writers do.
 

MIRADA #97 NO PUEDE SER!!!!

Part 1

Patio, if you've been watching telenovelas for a while, you know what that means. IT CAN'T BE!!!!!! There were lots of "no puede ser's" in this one, and more than a couple "¿qué haces aqui's?" as well.

But the upshot is, thanks to skullduggery by Lucrecia and her henchmen, the DNA tubes were switched and Doc Mask is legally declared the father of Baby Rafa. Turns out it's real easy to mess with the DNA results. Hospital Director Muñoz leaves the key to the hospital lab in an Unlocked Box. In his Unlocked Office. And Claudia, with her Unlocked Mouth, tells all this to Lucrecia. (I'll email Emilia to start knitting some more telenovela beanies for you all, so you can deal with this absurd but disheartening situation. And if all else fails, remember...THIS IS JUST A STORY!)

But how did the episode begin? Alas with Chooch Mooch, still laying her hard luck story on Prudencia who resists valiantly...but ultimately caves. They'll clear out a room where Luis was keeping old files [archivos muertos], and make a spot for Susana to land. The Chooch immediately wants to order someone to fetch her things. She may be desperate for a place but she's still upper crust. Call the servants!

Brief scene where Fernando fills Prudencia in about Ramona about her obvious plan to spy on Marina for Doc Sotero. We already knew all that, so no biggie.

What was big was the obvious chemistry between Vanessa and Lino as he gave her the mandated tour around don Luis' business offices. She had no idea Luis was into so much more than avocados. But back to the essential--where's the cafeteria? Lino says "Oh forget that. The taco stand around the corner is a lot better." And takes her there.

Alright, it's official. These two will end up together. When a formerly hoity-toity, high-falutin' character starts enjoying street food with ordinary guy or gal, it's a done deal. They're a couple for realz. Sorry Anita. Start working on Plan B. Erasmo maybe?

After this lovely lunch with Lino--he's telling her all about this wonderful mysterious piece of luck that a music producer is going to help him record his song...the very song that he wrote for...But, he fails to tell her the obvious. It's his Vanessa song. The one we've heard multiple times. As has she. But she's clearly delighted to see how happy he is.

All well and good until Vanessa arrives home and finds Chooch Mooch Mama in her bedroom. A walloping QUE HACES AQUI? and furthermore, don't even think about making up. You told me I'm not your daughter and there it stands. Out of money? Out of an apartment? Get a job!

Susana does a good job of faking repentance and misery but it's not flying with Vanessa. She ends the conversation by saying," I hope you're not planning on sleeping in this room!"

Don Luis is equally enthused about her arrival. NOT. He's fixing himself a drink when he catches sight of her and it's another QUE HACES AQUI? Followed up by another chin grab and shake before they dart apart at Prudencia's arrival. But Luis has the last word. After slamming down his drink "I don't even want it now" he adds a great dicho "El muerto y el arrimado a los tres dias apestan" [a dead body and an houseguest both stink after three days].

Not exactly a warm welcome.
 

MIRADA #97 NO PUEDE SER!!!

Part 2

Prudencia tries to smooth things over, reassuring Susana "You know how Luis is [she sure does Pru!]and he'll calm down after a while. [we don't think so Pru]

But let's go from this tense scene to another one--at the Family Court hearing. Doc Mask's sleazy lawyer is spinning a tale about Doc and Marina being lovers for years, even before her marriage. Marina jumps up and calls him a liar. "He tried to rape me, but it didn't work! We were never intimate!" Beto, who has attended the hearing, jumps in to support Marina-- assuring her that he's here to support her. She looks starry-eyed and grateful. But that doesn't stop Doc Sotero and his creepy legal rep. "I need to know my son!" Sotero thunders. "And I request a DNA test." Lawyer adds that his housekeeper Ramona has declared the two had intimate relations for years. "That woman is lying!" shouts Marina. The judge looks annoyed. And Viewerville is getting a sick, sick feeling. As they leave the courtroom, Marina turns once more to Beto to thank him for coming. And he regrets once again not having gotten to know little Rafa earlier. Now he feels such a connection. Ricardo, looking jealous as usual, says a firm "Vamonos mi amor." And off they go.

Let's leave here and go back to the big house.

They're all enjoying little Baby Rafa except for Susana who's making snide remarks about who the father might be. Don Luis tells her to butt out of his family business. And as Anita noted yesterday, our big brown bear is obviously head over heels in love with the little tyke, marveling at the strength of his grip on Grandpappy's finger. It's a sweet scene and makes me sad knowing that surely he and Prudencia are going to split up. For now though, they just seem like two besotted grandparents with their first grandbaby.

From the sweet to the frankly weird. We're at the hospital and Erick seems to be pursuing Claudia in an attempt to make up and re-ignite their romance. Whaaaa? Which is exactly what Papa Muñoz is saying. Erick explains that he's trying to Openly pursue Claudia so she can Openly reject him in front of all the other nurses. And then presumably, get over her snit and help him get back with Yola. That's about as convoluted and byzantine a plan as you can get--but if it works...fine. We'll have to wait and see.

Chooch Mooch, the woman who has not only a Plan B, but a Plan C, D, E, and F, is plotting by phone with Zacarias. She wants him to declare the entire avocado crop wasted but he persuades her that it would be too preposterous for don Luis to believe. Susana concedes, but says she already has some buyers lined up for the rest so leave it to her. Bad plan, Zack. But we'd be happy to see you go down in flames too.

Back to Sweetness and Lightsville. Vanessa is cuddled up with Angustias. Baby Rafa is happily bouncing on Prudencia's lap. Ricardo and Marina arrive home and for a moment all seems well. But since it's not el gran final, we know there's more horror to come. Double sigh.

 

MIRADA #97 NO PUEDE SER!!

Part 3

Lucrecia, the nasty Ice Queen from Hell, attired in red jeggings and those oversized beige pumps, is quietly furious that Alberto, HER Alberto, showed up at the hearing to support Marina. Doc Sotero snidely reminds her that she's on "cuerda floja" [shaky ground, lit. a tightrope]but don't worry. Lu has a Plan B, C, D, and F too. And Sotero is ready to finance it. Or as he says "I'll pay anything to get that woman back!" Meanwhile "that woman" is back in the vecindad, happily telling Yola how happy she was that Alberto is being so supportive.

I dunno...Team Ricardo! Calling Team Ricardo! Anyone at the Team Ricardo table? Andy? Anybody?

And speaking of tables, Vanessa, Waldo and the nameless studio music man (he looks shifty to me but I think he's on the up and up) are sitting at one, happily exchanging money to finance Lino's first demo. "But keep my name out of it," Vanessa adds. Look at our little gal--mature, generous, and downright noble. Amazing what a bad marriage and a death or two can do for one's character.

Meanwhile, remember "te vas a cargar el payaso" class? Well, it's happening again in Zacaria's office as don Luis raises holy hell over the failure of one third of his crop. -Must be because Zack bought cheap pesticide. And what's he going to say to those clients all waiting for their supplies of avocados!? He's so mad he squeezes one of the supposedly tainted fruits all over Zack's face and shirt. And for good measure grabs said shirt to wipe up the rest. You know they had fun with that scene. Well, Luis did anyway.

But did Lucrecia and Alberto have any fun? Well, not the nookie kind. She's smoothly telling him his intervention at the hearing just complicated things--but no worries, she supports him no matter what. He gushes over her extraordinary maturity but begs off a drinky poo and what's to follow by saying "Hard day. Need to go." Besito. She looks thoughtful afterwards. Maybe she notices the glowing sign overhead-- HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU.

We sure do.
 

"MIRADA":

Judy: Loved the recap. Excuse my French but how in the EXPLETIVE does LuCrazy have so many backup plans to destroy Marina ?
 

MIRADA #97 NO PUEDE SER!!!!!!!

Part 4

More sweetness and light: At the big house, Marina and Beto are playing with Baby Rafa and the three of them just look so happy and so right together.

Team Ricardo! Calling Team Ricardo!

Well, Ricardo is on his team if no one else is. And he's also off in a corner watching this sweet scene from afar. Oh well...

Velcro Lucrecia (thanks Doris) is hanging onto Beto's pants leg, volunteering to go with him to have his blood drawn for the DNA test. HE'S JUST NOT INTO YOU LADY! But he's a little more diplomatic. Goes off without her. We also see Doc Sotero getting his blood drawn, in perfect confidence, know the test will be rigged.

Meanwhile Lucrecia has slithered over to Clueless Claudia to ask how the lab of DNA samples is protected--with a password like the prescription lab? Why no, Director Muñoz keeps the key to the lab in a box in his office. And of course, we see old Almond Milk himself, shucking off his lab coat, putting on his jacket, getting ready to head for home. But not before putting key, conveniently labeled, in unlocked box. And leaving his unlocked office. Wow. Total beanie adjustment time.

Lucreepy sneakes in, extracts key, goes into lab, withdraws samples, takes them to cafe where two suspicious gents sit at next table. The exchange is made. And our hearts drop.

Then she meets Doc Sotero. In another cafe? Or just another room? Who cares? We know something bad is going down. Doc Sotero snickers that he did his part. And she replies smoothly that she did hers as well. Boy, do I hate these two!

Pictures of a full moon and then daylight to show us it is another day. And everyone is on tenterhooks. Including us. Beto is waiting in Ricardo's office which the latter doesn't like one bit. "You're already acting like you're the father," he snaps. "I know what you're up to." Beto suggests that he put aside his jealousy.

Any news. Nope. No news. Then a phone call. It's Ximena the lawyer. Come to the Family Court to get the results.

The judge is being more annoying than usual. He goes into a long blah blah about the results being under obtained and tested under "strict vigilance" [We beg to differ Judge!] and finally Marina breaks in impatiently...Just tell us the results!

The father of the baby is Isauro Sotero Coronel.

NO PUEDE SER!!!!!

Ricardo gains a few points with me by holding onto Marina and comforting her. Or attempting to. There's no comfort with this kind of news.
 

MIRADA #97 NO PUEDE SER!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Final miserable part

The lawyer calls Prudencia and Luis to give them the bad news.

Then the scene switches to the studio where Lino is belting his Vanessa love lyrics out and Anita is looking like a sour apple and grinding her teeth. I'm trying to feel sorry for her but I just can't. I'm kind of sorry I have to hear Lino's whole song again, but I'm not sorry for Anita.

And back at the hospital, Claudia is coming with the Envelope of Bad News. Beto opens it. Closes his eyes. Sits down. Devastated. Lucrecia is creeping along behind, ready to fake noble, loving support again-- while slyly insinuating that "Well, intuition doesn't work does it? The science says that Isauro is the father."

Beto isn't buying it. -Something is wrong! The feelings that little Rafa evoke in me--he must be my son. -You have to accept it, coos Lucrecia. It's definitive proof.

Just absolutely nauseating.

Also sick-making at the hearing. The judge, ever more annoyed with the histrionics, is repeating that Sotero, as the father, legally has rights to his son. Marina is too angry to hold back. "You're just trying to hold on to me! You don't care at all about your son!"

The judge is alienated. Doc Sotero and sleazy lawyer are elated. Marina is heartsick and devastated. And all poor Ricardo can do is hug her.

Man! what a crappy ending!

Here's hoping your day went better than Marina's, dear Patio. Now jump in and rant all you want.
 

Steve...Thanks for "loving the recap" but hold your water old son. The recap always has five parts. Aside from counting, you can always look for "final part". Just sayin'.
 

MIRADA

Thank you for your recap, Judy. No puede ser, indeed!

This one was difficult for me to watch.

” These two will end up together. When a formerly hoity-toity, high-falutin' character starts enjoying street food with ordinary guy or gal, it's a done deal. They're a couple for realz.”
Yes, ITA.

Erick’s plan is so eight grade. Next….?

So-called “security” for that box of important keys in Muñoz office is a joke. More beanie hat time.

I hate that the DNA results were tampered with and incorrect. Because we know they were and are. And it drives the plot. I had to FFWd-> thru the rest of that. Doc Mask is so odious that I will probably hate that actor forever. It’s just a story. It’s just a story. And my telenovela beanie hat has been recovered and tightly placed back on my head. Argh…

Anita sure looked miserable while Lino was recording the Vane song. Meh….whatever.

” Man! what a crappy ending!”
Isn’t that the truth!?!
 

MIRADA

JudyB, once again you have made a deliciously sweet cream out of crud (and that is no typo), especially with the Lucreepy and Doc SoTerrible scenes.

Like Doris, ITA with "” These two will end up together. When a formerly hoity-toity, high-falutin' character starts enjoying street food with ordinary guy or gal, it's a done deal. They're a couple for realz.” That happened on "Amar a Muerte" not too long ago.

I wanted to laugh when the judge stated that the DNA results were done at a high-security, closely supervised place...Seriously??? Lucreepy didn't even bother to wear a disguise this time.

I was sure hoping that the report Beto got would have some type of information that would lead him to suspect that the results were wrong...like maybe his blood type was wrong? But then I have no clue what kind of information those results include.

Ay! Caray! ” Man! what a crappy ending!” indeed!

Thank you, JudyB...you ROCKED again!
 

Mirada..8/5/19

Anita you put your foot in it girl. It's a phrase we use on the south when
Fpod is really good. Here it's about recap, the recap is stupendous good.

I loved seeing ray-ray loosing her hair. That was funny. Tori would not let up.

Luis was just beside himself,omg those crazy sounds adults make when they're around babys! The actor was Havin so much fun with that part. I thought damibwas comin to the square house to,
Havin seen her yet. Ob yeah she'll be staying with the new boyfriend. That house maybe to crowded anyway.

So the Mooch is gonna steal from Luis?
That won't end well for her, she will not lower herself and get a job. Lol.
She'll probly be on the street being a
Hustler when this ends. Even if she does manage to finagle money from Luis
She'll blow it. She blamed her poor dead Husband who can't counter that acusation. Sure blame the dead guy why
Don'tcha.

Still don't like lucreepy. How long Will it take beto to find out that the
Sweeter than sugar doc of compassion
Is really poison ivy in a white coat?
Yuck and he stl kisses her like theyre
In luurve. Not!

Lino n Anita. No!

I'm ready to see pru slap the mooch in
To next week. They're serving it slow.
Ok I'll wait. Usually when its gonna good, they make us wait.

Anita thank you for a great recap.
 

MIRADA

You transformed depressing into vibrant seamlessly Judy.

Starting with the superb title, the excellence continued throughout including “El muerto y el arrimado a los tres dias apestan" [a dead body and a houseguest both stink after three days]” (which I loved) and "cuerda floja" [shaky ground]”.

Like doris, “When a formerly hoity-toity, high-falutin' character starts enjoying street food with ordinary guy or gal, it's a done deal. They're a couple for realz” was one of my favorites.

Others included “besotted grandparents”, “Sweetness and Lightsville” and “Final miserable part”.

The care and effort you put into every recap is evident at every turn. Thank you!

Diana
 

MIRADA
Sorry to be so late to the after-recap parties. I had an appointment early in the day and didn't get home till late in the afternoon, then I had a barbecue to go to. Now I'm waiting for a thunderstorm to pass (no rain here).

Haven't read JudyB's recap, nor watched the episode, so I will try to avoid all the spoilers.

Thanks everybody for stopping by to add color to yesterday's episode. We do need those visual specialists, Mely and Doris.
 

Oh, no, I spied "..crappy ending." I'm trembling already.
 

MIRADA

Great recap of a tough episode, JudyB.

Honestly I think the DNA switcheroo was anticlimactic. Way too easy for Lu to get into Fernando's office and such. The writers were a bit lazy with that. I loved that you pointed out the obvious regarding Lu and Beto: He's Just Not That Into You.

The courtroom scene was cringey with Marina being unable to control her anger (but rightfully so) and the judge seeming uninterested. Like, who let Beto just crash the hearing? Lol....There have been better telenovela courtroom scenes than that.

Jealous Ric is super annoying. Yes, Beto is hoping to win Marina back and has admitted his mistake about Rafael but the priority was that Doc Mask wouldn't be able to be near Marina or Rafael and Beto was the only one who could help. Marina was obviously never intimate with anybody else before meeting Ric and even they haven't gotten that far yet.

I liked seeing Vane reject her mother. Chucha's line of saying things "in the heat of the moment" obviously won't fly with Vane. Those words are still hurtful. It's nice to see that Vanessa is willing to embrace a simplistic life instead of a fancy house, fancy cars, fancy restaurants etc. obviously Lino wasn't sure if food stands were her thing lol she has changed for the better. Will Lino find out soon who is behind his career boost?


 

MIRADA

TF - There is no doubt Lino will find out that Vane bankrolled this recording project. He will get angry and they will split up again before they finally get together for good and their HEA. I think that is in the romance novels rules. For realz. 😊
 

MIRADA

Greetings Passionate Patio. About to head upstairs and get cozy with a book rather than a computer, but wanted to check back in and see how everybody was handling this very troubling episode.

Doris..."Erick's plan is so eighth-grade" So right. I was giving him too much credit describing it as "convoluted and byzantine". Strictly middle school Erick, strictly middle school. And I fear I'm going to be like you...forever hating the actor who played Doc Sotero after this. Pretty much how I felt about the actor who played the villain on Alborada. Never could see him as anything else but a slime bucket.

Rgv Chick...Wow, what a great moniker for Doc Sotero!..DocSoTerrible. Perfect. You are now our Name Specialist. Adding you to the roster of Visual Specialists Doris and Mely. Getting to be quite a crew. And like you, I was praying Beto would look at the analysis and say "this has obviously been tampered with." But he didn't. Sigh.

Diana...Thanks kind friend as always. You say I put "care and effort" into my recaps, but you put care and effort into your comments each and every day. And we recappers thrive on it.

Anita, Whew...I was getting worried about you. Was afraid those 13 pages of note-taking had done you in. So glad it was a barbecue instead. Although those can also be lethal.

Nina...that was a lovely compliment for Anita's recap yesterday "Girl, you put your foot in it!" Love these new expressions you're teaching us.

TF...Thanks for talking about the painful moments in those courtroom scenes. I literally was feeling sick to my stomach during those moments, and also when Ricardo and Beto were in his office waiting anxiously for the results. I just get waaaay too involved in this tumultuous storylines.

Doris...Oh noes! Another breakup! after a friendly makeup? Oh well. I'll rebuckle my Lino-Vanessa seatbelt. We still have Anita to deal with also.
 

MIRADA

All I need is "gratuitous lady in bikini or underwear" on one card, and "derailed wedding" on another and I'll have a Bingo. Really, writers? Throw me a bone, please. LOL
 

Judy I was probly commenting while you were posting today's episode, and mind got stuck in between from yesterdays episode.
But girl, what a crapy episode. All it
Does is proves even more that rinkled
Face is twisted. And like marina said
He just want her, he don't give a dam about little rafi. I hate him and doc
Lucreepy switched Those test. And who
Leaves the keys to the lab in their un
-locked office. Stupid doctor munozy!

So mooch slimmed her way back into the
Square house. Well I to am happy that
Our little vane is all grown up and she Won't let her slimy moma back into her Life. There's probly a jail cell waitin For that husband stealin, lying child Abusing mooching greedy crudy creature. And I use the name creature lightly, what is she exactly? She's to nasty to be somebody's mother. As far as a friend goes, a snake would be a better friend than her. Of course I wouldn't test that theory.

Marina looked much happier with beto
At that moment with beto and rafi than
She ever looked with sweet Ricky. And
The look on his face said it all. He
Does not have her heart, beto does. And M Has his lucreepy. She's just nasty like Ol rinkled Face. Don't care, just want what they want and to hell with what marina and beto wants.

Thank you JudyB. You hit it outta of the park.
 

Anita's not the sweet little daisy we Thought she was. If you gotta get a man by trapping him with a baby, you never had him in the first place. And
Heads up anita, a baby don't seal the
Deal. It only puts a weight on their
Little shoulders that they should not NEVER have to bear. She's just angrey
Cuz he's still in HOT love with Anita.
Moma toolbelt told her not to let her DW-40 get anywhere near his rusty screw drive, baby she threw that oil on that screwdriver.
 

Well done JudyB. Every recap a treat!

Not a fun episode even though novella rules required that the DNA tests were false
I used ffff more than once

Little Anita did look sour. Can’t blame her

I have been trying to figure out Music Man. We didn’t get any clues he wasn’t on the up and up, but he does have a slightly sleazy look especially with that retro haircut

So, is Vane going to discover the farm fraud as she works on the books?
Luis could also figure it out. He is always shown working, so he will be familiar with his own business. Much more than Zacarias

I just realized that Doc’s mask covers his left eye. Couldn’t he see with that eye when he was maskless and when he wore the sock?

As long as Sue lives with Pru, Luis is safe. She wouldn’t rock that boat

Mely


 

Good Morning Patio!

Ah Doris, I just don't see a gratuitous bikini or underwear scene in the offing. Would Rafa in just a diaper work? The love scenes have been more hinted at than anything. Guess it's because it's an afternoon show. How's the other Bingo card going?

Nina amiga mia...You're so right. Our little daisy Anita is morphing over to stinkweed territory with her scramble to keep her grip on Lino. Reciprocal love brings out the best in us. But thwarted love reveals depths and darkness we didn't know we had. Hopefully our Anita will come through a sadder but wiser girl and ready for a happier relationship next time. I DO like Mama Toolbelt more and more each episode. She's the real McCoy.

Mely...So you too have been puzzled by the Music Man's sketchy appearance. I've seen this actor in bit parts in other telenovelas, and he always seems to be playing shadowy characters. So it's just hard to believe he's genuine. But we can hope. Especially since I think the money for the demo is on loan from Angustias this time.

Of course as our visual expert has now noticed the mystery of the left eye. Why would DocSoTerrible cover it if he could see with it? Oh well. Another question to torment us during those 3 am Wake-up and Worry times. And glad you think Luis is safe as long as SueChooch is there. In spite of myself, I like that old fraud, so I'm hoping his many sins get forgiven. Don't think they will be though.
 

"Why would DocSoTerrible cover it if he could see with it?"
Because he is BSC Looney Tunes. That's all, folks.
 

"MIRADA":

Judy: It was so blatant that the DNA tests was rigged for obvious reasons. LuCrazy has like 100+ back-up plans.

Doris: Beto is right to be suspicious.

RGV Chick: I hope Doc IDIOT gets his Karma.
 

JudyB -"f, I like that old fraud, so I'm hoping his many sins get forgiven. Don't think they will be though.". IKWYM and I feel the same way. The actor is responsible for this underlying likeability by the way he is playing it out.
 

NO PUEDE SER
Such a great title for the episode. I was warned, but not enough. Crappy ending indeed.

The big ole beanie moment for me was when Beto wanted to have his DNA test done so he could prove he was Rafita's poppy. Couldn't they just have done the tests on Doc Wrinkle Face and the baby for the court? It would have made Lucreepy & Doc's job harder with nothing at hand to switch. Don't know what they could have managed--and the writers probably didn't either. What a crappy ending.

On the other hand, the recap was definitely not crappy.

About that eye--as blue as Doc Mask's real one. Early on, before he got his mask, we were told/shown that he'd lost the sight of that eye. If you're going to wear a half mask with glasses, wouldn't you want to make it look like the good eye wearing glasses? However, we have seen him subsequently, without the mask and the eye is open and looks ok. So JUAREVER.
 

NO PUEDE SER
TF--You said what I was going to say regarding the lab. You'd think the hospital director would have no involvement with securing the lab. In addition: really? They keep the samples in a picnic cooler? I shudder to think they do that with my blood tests. The whole scene was so unbelievable. I wish the writers had thought of something else. Switching blood tests is getting pretty old and obviously harder to make it believable.

We all know that it's darkest before the dawn (it's just a story, it's just a story) and their perfidy will soon be revealed though we may have to suffer through Doc Wrinkle Face bouncing baby Rafita on his knee and having the baby grab at his mask and shriek in horror, never to want to be near the monster again....bring back his big brown bear.
 

"MIRADA":

Anita: Let's hope the Bad Guys don't keep WINNING this week. It's frustrating.
 

Yes it is steve, yes it is. I can't lu
I hate hate hate seeing her with beto.
Clinging like he's her person property
And he goes along with it not Knowing
She's a succubus snake. Does her daddy
The famous world renown face fixer no
What he has spawned? He'll find out. I
Don't like the way he talks down about
Marina either. Like shes beneath him.
Pompus jackass.

Waitin for the next recap.
 

MIRADA #99 AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH

Part 1

Well a lot of inconvenient truths came out today. And a lot of damage was done. Most violent was Ramona's "final severance payout" which turned out to be a trip to the bottom of a lake( after a thorough throttling by DocSoTerrible.) But Erasmo got "liquidated" also, once Claudia revealed he had set up the whole scheme to portray Erick as a mujeriego.[womanizer]. And in the final moments of the episode we see a thunderstruck Lino, realizing that Vanessa had financed his sudden "discovery" by a talent agent. Uh oh!

All in all, another miserable, crappy episode. Only bright spots were those passionate kisses given by Yola to Erick. But--being Yola--she also laid a bunch of "requirements" on her new novio. Who needs a degree? She's already "lawyering".

Here's how today's mess started.

We're in Luis's office and he's as thrilled with Vanessa's whiz bang computer skills as Hilda was. Vane modestly replies that she's just trying to earn her salary.

Now back to Family Court where DocSoTerrible is pressing for an immediate visit to see HIS son. Ricardo tries to get him to back off by saying our lawyers will talk to your lawyer to set up a visitation schedule. And Ricardo's lawyer promises to see if they can require a psych evaluation for the creepy doc. But gosh! guess who they would probably choose to do that---Lucreepy! Ugh. This is all just too horrible.

Let's zoom into the music studio where things are better...but not by much. Anita is still making her Sour Apple face and wanting to know why Lino's demo song is not the one he composed for her. Turns out the pros deem that "le falta punch" (it lacks pizzazz); whereas the song Lino composed for Vanessa "va a pegar" [is going to catch on]. Yep, you can't fake passion...whether in song or in life. And that's precisely what's bugging our Anita.

Well, speaking of fakery, on we go to a lovely confab with Zackrat and ChoochMooch. He's of the opinion that if she's screwing Luis after all his generosity with her, how can Zack be sure she's trustworthy? And gets that LOOK. The one that says Take it or Leave it Dude. So he takes it. And tells her the details of how Luis is financing the payments for supplies etc. for the ranch.

At the hospital, Beto is bemoaning the results of the test to Erick. He was convinced little Rafa was his, and that he and Marina could be together again--a happy family with a baby. Sounds good Beto. But you've got two determined people working against you.

The required eavesdropping scene: Erasmo, trying to invite Yola out for dinner (she turns him down) shares that Vanessa is now working for don Luis. Yola immediately worries bout the romance renewing but Erasmo reassures her that Lino will respect his relationship with Anita. Anita, overhearing this, doesn't look confident at all.

None of this seems very important compared to the horror of DocSoTerrible's legal rights to Rafa. Everyone has gathered at the big house to hear the results: Luis, Vanessa, Angustias, Prudencia, Damiana, little Rafa and of course Beto arrives as well.

They're shocked. And devastated when Marina and Ricardo arrive with the Bad News.
So are we. All over again.


 

MIRADA #99 AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH

Part 2

Claudia and Erick's plan has worked. She "broke up" with him in a dramatic fashion, to the delight of all the nurses. Now she's paying her part of the deal: Coming to clarify to Yola that Erick really is a good guy--now anyway--and that "lo traes derrapando" [he's crazy about you]. All well and good. Yola is clearly thrilled. But then Claudia adds, "Don't hurt Erick by going back with your ex-novio." Ex-novio? Don't have one. Erasmo makes the mistake of showing up and gets found out. Yes, he tried to discredit Erick, but only to protect Yola from an untrustworthy "riquillo".

Bye bye Erasmo.

Eavesdropping scene 1 was Anita. Eavesdropping scene two is Ramona. Hers is fatal. She overhears Lucrecia chuckling about the scam she and DocSoTerrible pulled with the DNA tests. "And to think," adds Lucrecia "that you never had sex with her at all!" Clunk. Ramona drops something. DocSoTerrible knows then that she's back and she's overheard the awful truth. Mind you, she tries to placate him by saying she's more than ready to return to Valle de Bravo to look for another job, but he assures her that first he wants to give her the "final payout she DESERVES" and insists on driving her back as well.

Bye-bye Ramona.


 

MIRADA #99 AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH

Part 3

Damiana is comforting a grief-stricken Marina while Luis thunders that he's not going to let that Charred and Broiled [chamuscado]take his grandson. (See, this is why I love Luis. While everyone else is hand-wringing and shoulder patting and bemoaning, this guy is ready to take violent action. Okay. Maybe not the greatest idea. But he's not about to lie down and let Doc Chamuscado walk all over him.) Yay Don Luis!

Well, as expected, everyone else is weeping and wailing over the dreadful news. Marina accepts that DocSoTerrible must have raped her after all. And yet the little person she loves most in all the world is the result of that. "And I have to defend him from this dreadful monster," she concludes. A sympathetic Alberto holds her close and wipes away her tears. Oh my. I'm on Team Beto but this whole thing is a dreadful mess. And Team Ricardo has been very sympathetic also. How to choose? how to choose?
Guess she needs as many menfolk on her side as possible to deal with this new horror.
 

MIRADA #99 AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH

Part 4

Exit Erasmo and enter Erick. Margarito knows when he's not needed, so he says he'll take a walk, and limps out the door with his cane. Erick starts to explain things but Yola can't wait. She flies into his arms and covers him with passionate kisses. And a list of requirements: Respect, fidelity, realization of the importance of her studies etc.

Erick laughs and says no problem--but I have a requirement also--that you trust me and check out any gossip about me directly, without believing it out of hand. Deal.

Okay, let's leave these two and switch to some other gruesome twosomes: For instance ChoochMooch and Vanessa. She's back from the ranch and being very unsympathetic about the tragic DNA results. Knew it all along, she implies. Vanessa loses patience with her and bounces her out of the room.

Gruesome Twosome Two: Lucrecia and Beto. Yes, she's followed him to the Big House and even Luis is ready to throw her out. No one wants her there. In fact Luis immediately says "no está el horno para bollas" [things are tense here, not a good time to visit] She slinks right in nevertheless, faking friendship and support for Marina, while congratulating herself for being mature enough to accept Beto as Rafa's father had it been so...but Guess not! From now on you'll have Doc Sotero in your life! Creepy smile. Trying to look sympathetic while gloating. Not a good look.

Gruesome Twosome Three: Ramona and Doc Sotero. He has insisted on driving her back even though she wisely prefers the bus. And he missed the turnoff for the pueblo. Gosh, just too distracted. "But why are we going to the lake," queries Ramona. And starts talking as fast as she can. "If I did hear anything, well I'll never say anything! I'll never betray you. Let God be the judge of what you've done. Not me. I've always loved you. I love you now."

Our good doc stops the car, strangles his faithful servant and drops her in the lake. But just so we know he still has a little human feeling, he wipes a sad tear away. Yep, we do what we have to. So it goes. Next!
 

MIRADA #99 AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH

Part 5

Erasmo has decided to go back to the ranch. And we can only hope he figures out how ChoochMooch and Zackrat are cooking the books. Because we need some good news right now!

Lino has arrived at the big house and hears the bad news. Marina is on the phone to Yola and is further stressing over the horrible news and the horror of a crazy man laying claim to her dear baby. Rafita is mine; only mine! she declares. Well, it doesn't work that way Marina. But we wish it did. Beto wants to stay but she says it's better that he leave. So he reluctantly goes off with Velco Lucrecia.

In the main room, Luis is alienating Prudencia by repeatedly announcing that He Wants to Eat! No one else does but on he goes. (Well, I never said he was perfect.)

Later we see Beto knocking on Doc Sotero's door with the ominous words "we need to talk". I'm hoping Alberto knocks him into next week. But probably not.

So enough of this misery. Let's check in at the music studio where Lino is doing his second take (without Sour Apple Anita in attendance). This time he's really singing his heart out and Waldo and Music Man are both excited. Sounds great. It's going to be a "hitazo" no doubt about it.

After Lino's exit Vanessa shows up and is moved to tears hearing the song and remembering how she first listened to it back at the ranch. Lino unexpectedly returns to retrieve his jacket. And sees Vanessa. Cara impactada. And not in a good way.

-What are you doing here? Are you following me? You're behind all this, aren't you?

Vanessa admits that she is. "I want you to realize your dream...even if you're not with me."

Another Cara Impactada. Looks like Doris was right. More trouble ahead for this couple.

Okay folks. It was another No Good Very Bad Day at the Mirada Patio. Let's all commiserate together with vats of ice cream and adult beverages.
 

MIRADA

Thank you, Judy, for yet another awesome recap and perfect title!

” Okay folks. It was another No Good Very Bad Day at the Mirada Patio. Let's all commiserate together with vats of ice cream and adult beverages.”
AMEN to THAT!

”Sour Apple Anita” Isn’t that the truth?!?!? She needs to get over herself.

” Well, as expected, everyone else is weeping and wailing over the dreadful news”
I reeeally wanted Marina to turn around to Luis and say “Gee, thanks dad. Without your interference a year ago, none of this would be happening. At all." Why doesn't anyone else remember this???

I had to Mute Doc Mask in the courtroom and after. I just cannot take it anymore. He is BSC. Of course Lucreepy will get to do the psych evaluation. Aaaaack!!! No puede ser.

Ramona got her anvil today. I knew she was dead meat as soon as they realized she heard that convo. Well, she played with fire and got burned. Big time.

And today Doc Nut Job became a murderer. There is NO WAY the writers can allow him to take that baby from Marina, not even for one hour. No puede ser! Unless . . . he kidnaps it. That’s a box on my Bingo card I can check off if he does.

Well, at least Yola & Erick are resolved. The only bright spot in our story today.
 

MIRADA

Oh JudyB, how do you do it to make such unpleasantries so entertaining. Reading your recaps is so much easier to take than watching all the misery.

OOOh, I hate, hate, HATE Doc SoTerrible! And when he calls Marina "Bonito" it makes my skin crawl...(EWWW!) What a shame that such a a nice word now has such a bad connotation.

Ramona, R.I.P., but you shoulda known better.

The only highlight for me was seeing Beto come to visit Marina and ask if he could continue seeing Rafa. The man is completely smitten; and although he doesn't know it, with very good reason...it's the call of the blood.


 

Patio, I FFWD thru the commercials when I watch MIRADA. Has Looneyvision said what will follow this, after it ends?
 

MIRADA

Judy, even though I know virtually little about this story, this episode seemed like an especially sordid mess.

But with your always evident wit and wisdom you managed to alleviate some of the depressing, stinging stank with “Charred and Broiled [chamuscado” and “Who needs a degree? She's already "lawyering". Most excellent.

Your vocabulary is unrivaled and greatly appreciated: "le falta punch" (it lacks pizzazz) and "no está el horno para bollas" [things are tense here, not a good time to visit” included.

I just loved this and it bears repeating in its entirety: “Luis thunders that he's not going to let that Charred and Broiled [chamuscado]take his grandson. (See, this is why I love Luis. While everyone else is hand-wringing and shoulder patting and bemoaning, this guy is ready to take violent action”. The unlikely, courageous heroes are sometimes the ones we need the most.

Judy, I wish you a cool and creamy ice cream tonight. You have more than earned it!

Thank you amiga.

Diana
 

MIRADA

Excellent work, JudyB! Jorge Ramos made me miss the good parts of this episode. Ugh. I didn’t get to see Yola/Erick or Ramona’s murder. The news cut in right as Erasmo saw Claudia with Yola.

I’m glad all the miscommunication with Erick and Yola was cleared up. I’m actually curious to know if Erick and Claudia’s plan works in the real world lol I’ve only seen that in movies/on tv. So Erasmo left with his tail between his legs. Serves him right. He only had Lino on his team and that wasn’t much.

Doc Mask acts quick...yikes. Ramona probably wouldn’t have been able to outsmart him anyway. And IF she told someone, who would even believe her?

Sour Apples (lol) was likely seconds away from a hissy fit regarding the song. As an artist, Lino can and will put emotion and passion into what he does especially when there is a special meaning behind it. Obviously the song for Anita was not (as) special.

After watching this episode I feel like as couples, Vane/Lino and Yola/Erick are a lot alike. They definitely bring to light topics such as class and wealth but ultimately show that love has no boundaries. Vane and Erick learned an important lesson.

I too loved when Beto asked Marina if he could still be close to Rafa. Marina didn’t hesitate in accepting. I wonder how Ric feels about that lol


 

Hah Doris! Way to look on the bright side...you might get a kidnapping square marked off on your Bingo card. Love the way you re-format. This was another disturbing episode. And I applaud your wisdom in muting Doc Mask when he's on. Just too upsetting. Altogether awful. I've seen the commercials and there has been no mention of what's to follow.

Rgv Chick...Thanks for mentioning DocSoTerrible's dreadful use of the word "Bonita". Yesssss, he makes it sound sleazy and dirty. Like he's ready to violate her again. He's certainly violating her heart,spirit and peace of mind. And everybody else's too. Except for Lucreepy who's in high cotton right now. Don't know who I hate more. And I agree it's sweet and heartwarming to see how Beto has taken to little Rafa. Who's darned cute right now that he's a little older and emoting a bit himself.

Diana...I'm so glad you enjoy the vocabulary. I'm fascinated by the colorful language don Luis always uses. And that's the first time I've heard "no está el horno para bollos" but it was sure clear from context what it meant (though I double-checked to be sure). My "cool and creamy" ice cream will be virtual tonight, but I might reward myself with a York Mint Patty. It's my go-to antidepressant when these episodes are too dreadful.

TF...You stated this so poetically "They definitely bring to light topics such as class and wealth but ultimately show that love has no boundaries." Nicely put amigo. And a good lesson. Now why in the world did Jorge Ramos break into your episode. Was there some bombshell in Latino news tonight?

Thanks everyone for chiming in. Sure helps to share the misery with friends on the Patio.
 

Are you having fun, JudyB? Such a trouper to watch without the fff option so we can read about it without having to suffer through it. No matter how terrible the episode I always enjoy your writing

Well I guess Erasmo/Anita is off. They looked promising at first, but their baser human nature took over at the end

Ricardo continued “pawing” Marina. Just annoys me no end. Give her a hug, hold her hand but enough with laying claim

Vanessa’s upgraded web site will offset her salary for a few months. That is a big expense

As much money as it takes to support SuperMooch and Zacarias will surely be noticed

Mely



 

MIRADA

Hey Ms. Mely--for you guys, I'm willing to suffer a bit. But I admit it's been particularly grueling recently. I'm plenty grouchy by dinner-time as my family has noted!

So you're getting annoyed with Ricardo too...He and Lucrecia both have Velcro tendencies. Too bad we can't pair the two of them together, and leave Beto and Marina to rediscover what made them fall in love in the first place. And I agree, SuperMooch especially has the ability to burn through money at top speed. So surely don Luis will notice the problem before too long.

At this point, I just want the writers to stop making the characters (and us!) suffer and bring us a happy ending. Team Beto or Team Ricardo. Just so long as everybody's happy.

And speaking of Team Ricardo, where is our Andy? Haven't heard much from him lately. I have no one to fight with! Dang.
 

Lol JudyB yeah Jorge was reporting on DT in El Paso.

So there are 12, 13 episodes to go? What more could happen? Seems like things may be resolved quickly...no idea. Crossing fingers for a happy ending.
 

Another crapy episode. Where O where is the joy? And I'm not talkin bout that disgusting nasty joy of nasty lu
And chared and broiled wrinkled face.
They had the nerve to laugh-out-loud!
About destroying someone's life. I am
Going to be as happy and joyous about
Beto and marina and baby rafi being back together as Iam about hope Liam
And Beth. Joy in both countrys. And U
Have no idea what I'm talkin about so Movin on.

JudyB, you done it again, you managed to make me laugh about something in this horrid tale of love,death n hate.
I never would have known what Luis was
Calling the evil mask,chared n brioled
That made me laugh out loud. I just hate that he and lucreepy had a laugh
At marinas expense. And she had the gall to come and act like a concerned friend?
When she falls I hope she falls hard.
Maybe she can match chared n broiled.
It'd serve her right, and her world famous face fixer daddy would not be able to fix her ugly chared face. Can't talk about them any More. It's just a show Im not likin much lately.

I hope lino don't get mad and decide not to want the demo just cuz vane had
Paid for it. This is not a time for pride,your life is about to change for the better. And U can put yola through law school. And y'all can move outta that cramped cave.

I hope the mooch goes to prison for a long time. Maybe she can learn a work
Skill while in incarceration. Ha Ha!
In what universe? Ha Ha Ha!

Marina is gonna act like a moma lion.
Ol burnt face won't come out well at all. And neither will witch face.

Anita (apple face) Wants to know why lino's demo song isn't the one he wrote her, well darlin the thrill was
Never there. And no passion. With van
The thrill was Never gone. Thats y the song gets you all hot a bothered. Ok
I hope that ice cream is reeeeal cold.

Let's hope that tomorrow starts to look up for the good guys. We can only
Wish, but I think a lot of crap gotta
Go down before then. I love happy endings. We need a happy endings.

JudyB thank ever so much.



 

MIRADA

JudyB, thanks for a great recap and a great read.

I'm struggling with trying to post using my phone, but mostly it's not working. Hopefully this time will be the charm.

I had a hard time believing that Doc Awful would kill Ramona. He is now truly and officially awful. But hardened TN veteran that I am, I shrugged it off after a while as just another casualty, collateral damage.

Much more important is what will now happen with Vane and Lino.

:-)

andy

 

OT

There are days when I hate cell phones. Today is such a day.

Anyway I wanted to note that our local Univision station seemed to go off the air for a few minutes today. Other channels were fine.

Probably the crack technicians wanted to interrupt Mirada to put Ramos on, but couldn't quite figure out how.

:-)

andy
 

Good Morning Patio and dear Sharing-the-Misery friends. We are indeed knee-deep in Bleaksville right now. Thirteen more episodes to go, so there will be more dark days until the dawn. But hang in there!

Anita...Thank you for those sweet and funny posts yesterday afternoon. Love your "juarever" and Doc WrinkleFace. He is so loathsome. Even more so, now that he has killed the faithful Ramona, who cooked and cleaned selflessly for him over the years. What an ungrateful churl!

Nina...Always get a kick out of your extended rants and glad I could make you laugh with "Charred and Broiled". Have to admit I used a little poetic license on that translation. [Just in case you ever take a Spanish test on that word] "Chamuscado" does mean "charred" but I threw in the "broiled" part because Luis always talks in a rather exaggerated, colorful--and often derisive--way. So I wanted to give the flavor of that.

Andy...You made me laugh with this:

I had a hard time believing that Doc Awful would kill Ramona. He is now truly and officially awful. But hardened TN veteran that I am, I shrugged it off after a while as just another casualty, collateral damage.

It's amazing what evil we've become accustomed to shrugging off after a steady diet of these telenovelas. Rather a chilling commentary on the human ability to adapt, as well. On the problems with Univision transmission, we've been having those here in middle America as well. I think their signal is not quite strong enough to override some of the extreme weather we've been having My title "An Inconvenient Truth" was partly inspired by recent global warming issues, but it sure turned out to be "inconvenient" for poor Ramona.

And I've never managed to post from my cellphone. But prefer the computer keyboard anyway, since my thumbs are "torpes" on a phone, but my 10 fingers are whiz-bang typists on a keyboard.

Steve...I imagine the Bad Guys will keep winning for several more days. After all, the writers need to keep us on tenterhooks waiting for the Good Guys to finally make it to the finish line.
 

"MIRADA":

Judy: I never liked or trusted Ricardo because now he's slowly becoming unhinged & obsessed with Marina.

I KNEW Romana was going to get whacked based on being a liability to Creepy Doc.

The Body Count increases AGAIN.

Andy: RIP Romana.

RGV Chick: LuCrazy & Co., upping the ante.
 

MIRADA
JudyB does it again, makes a silk purse out of sow's ear. Wish the ear had been DocNastyMind. Thanks for making it possible for us to enjoy something out of this episode.

They tossed us a couple of crumbs--Yola and Eric's pasting each other's lips together; Anita recognizing Lino is Just Not into Her--although I have fears of what she will try to hang onto him by hook or by crook (pregnancy faint aside, but she might fake it) or by asking him to live up to his promise not to hurt her (poor Lino, caught between two women whereas before he had none); Beto and Marina sitting as close together as her current feelings could allow (and we know that is changing, so keep it up BetoBoy)

Ricky - Will you please stop rubbing Marina's shoulders, knees, everything, short of you-know-what when you are in a public place? Everybody knows she's with you for comfort and security and you should stick to that and stop marking your territory. It's not yours anymore. Hopeo Beto has something to say about that today.

At this point, our only hope is that Doc WrinkleFace a) makes a mistake (probably not; b) visits are supervised and Marina is never alone with him for him to make a mistake (probably not); c) attempts kidnapping Rafita (for bargaining chip) and Luis ropes and ties him. That would be very satisfying. Maybe he can squeeze plague infused avocados all over his face, too.

Why do I not care if Damiana and Margarito ever get together.

I hopeo Baldo sees what a terrific woman the one who really likes him is. Anita should finish her studies and maybe try some sweet strawberry-cranberry fruit roll-ups and smile at some of the guys in her computer classes.

TF--Wise words from you, "After watching this episode I feel like as couples, Vane/Lino and Yola/Erick are a lot alike. They definitely bring to light topics such as class and wealth but ultimately show that love has no boundaries. Vane and Erick learned an important lesson."
 

I saw watchin luis'face when they came back with The Bad news, he is really kickin Himself, as he should. Wishes he can undo it, can't. Theres hope for
Him? Maybe? But anybody can display simpathy, case in point....licreepy all that Fake sympathy she farted out
Yesterday. A bitch with a degree,thats
All she is.