Caray, Caray!

MAÑANA #21 CLIFFNOTES MIXED FEELINGS ABOUT DIANA'S SUCCESSFUL SURGERY

In a nutshell, prognosis for Diana looks good. She had a lumpectomy rather than a mastectomy, and barring poor results from the lymph node exam, the future looks rosy. And our "heroine" Monica is very unhappy to learn this good news. Excuse me if I have a problem with this "main character". But she really bugs me.

But enough of that. Here are the Cliffnotes:

1. Nora wants to blab that Luis is gay. She finally nabs Pablo and insists on sharing her "news". He wants no part of office gossip like that and wants to know about Diana instead. Big points for Pablo. Points deducted for Nora.
2. The Amoeba Clan is in the hospital stressing about the surgery.
3. Cristobál (my least favorite character after weepy Monica) is telling his dad if Diana dies, it's Dad's fault
4. Camilo is in chapel, re-introducing himself to God (evidently they've been out of touch for years). Now he wants a favor. That Diana survive to take care of her children. If someone has to die, let it be him. Sad Sack Monica shows up in chapel and offers Camilo comfort.
5. Chabela and Adrian are in the kitchen, manning the home front. They start with tea and graduate to tequila. Laura arrives home after a no-go job interview. And decides to head to hospital.
6. Nora and Luis have a stupid fight over his supposed betrayal of her.
7. Camilo worried about Diana thinking he would need replacement wife. Monica jokes that they could do a "focus group" to determine best candidate. Makes Camilo laugh.
8. Rafa sees Monica and Camilo tenderly bonding and is concerned. Monica looks guilty.
9. Maggie and Manny show up to join Amoeba Group and Camilo stalks off angrily muttering "lo que me faltaba" [just what I need! (ironic)]
10. Monica is in the bathroom fantasizing about kissing Camilo [I fantasize about giving this whole telenovela the title GAG ME WITH A SPOON]
11. Camilo arrives back with the good news that it was just a lumpectomy and prognosis is good. Monica looks horrified. Oh Jeez, too bad Moni. Next!
 

MAÑANA #21 CLIFFNOTES MIXED FEELINGS ABOUT DIANA'S SUCCESSFUL SURGERY

12. Rafa tries to explain to clueless Camilo about Monica's infatuation with him. And does it with statistics: 36% of husband are unfaithful to wives when they are pregnant; the same percentage are unfaithful to wives when wives have serious illness. [Gosh guys, should we be pissed about the number of you who fail? Or happy that the majority of you rise to the occasion?] Then he goes on to the percentage of secretaries who are in love with their bosses. And says that Camilo's attitude is only encouraging her infatuation fantasies.
13. Clueless Camilo now wonders if Monica was soooo supportive of him during this tough time because she was in love--rather than just being a good work helpmeet.
14. Nurse reassures Diana that it was just a lumpectomy and soon she will not even notice the scar.
15. The Amoeba Clan now knows the good news as do Chabela and Adrian. Chabela credits her prayers to the Virgen de Guadalupe, San Judas de Tadeo and "Catemac"? [Not sure about that last one because it's a supposed witchcraft area in Mexico. Maybe Chabela was hedging her bets.]
16. Regi says good-bye to Maggie and Manny and Laura gets a lecture from Tita on the importance of mammography. Then Laura and Tita turn on Regi to urge her to let Diana help raise baby.
17. Barbi celebrates with Mauricio that now they can marry with no problem. He celebrates that now Camilo can focus on business instead of family.
18. Nico and Rafa snuggle and bond. Nico wants to meet Rafa's mom. Mau and Barbi glare.
19. Paloma and Cristobal talk about Brazil. Not enough money plus Cris is vague about life goals. Duh!
20. Surgeon gives Camilo a PSA about the wide range of emotions cancer patients and families experience. Camilo sits by Diana's bedside and tells her she will recuperate!
21. Monica grieves at home, clutching her teddy bear. Ximena offers her tea and booze to deal with her disappointment that Diana is not dying.
 

MAÑANA #21 CLIFFNOTES: MIXED FEELINGS ABOUT DIANA'S SUCCESSFUL SURGERY

22. Ximena, who usually pushes for HER point of view, now says "whatever you decide Moni, I'll support you".
23. Maggie, at home with Manny, is upset at not knowing when Regi will come to live with them. She wants it NOW!
24. Bizarre scene switch to Luis' sister training for Lucha Libre. Screeching and gymnastics as she tumbles around ring with another luchadora. We learn her "stage name" is Estrella Fugaz, la quebranta corazones.
25. Officials show up at MediaLink wanting to see boss about "delitos ciberneticos". Nora explains that Camilo is at hospital--wife in surgery.
26. Everybody goes home except Camilo who will spend the night in Diana's room. Some promise to take care of everything at home. Mau and Rafa vow to take care of everything at work. Mau-glare. Rafa-whatchu lookin' at?
27. Luis panics when Nora tells him about the "delitos ciberneticos" investigation. He thinks it's his fault for messing around on the computer and ending up connecting to a Russian Mafia scheme for easy money. Later calls his sister, whom he affectionately refers to as "bodoque" [blockhead]She picks up on his worry.
28. Kids gather in Diana and Camilo's bedroom to discuss welcome home. They want to put on some theater using one of her stories. Cris sulks until Barbi says he can write some music for it. Regina still more concerned with her own issues.
29. Monica lies awake at home, feeling sad. Camilo sits awake in Diana's room, watching over her.

Petite Patio, I don't think much of this story right now. But maybe it will pick up. We certainly have some less than likable characters in my opinion. And it's not just the Obvious Villains. Those I can accept. It's our heroines Monica and Diana, "hero" Camilo and some of the kids that bug me. Let me know what you think.

 

MAÑANA

Thank you for your Cliffnotes recap, Judy, and the snark. lol

I won't have time to watch this and we're going out soon to opening night of hockey season. Woot!

" [I fantasize about giving this whole telenovela the title GAG ME WITH A SPOON]"
Agreed!

" Ximena offers her tea and booze to deal with her disappointment that Diana is not dying."
And this is just. so. wrong. Ugh.....

"...good news that it was just a lumpectomy and prognosis is good. Monica looks horrified. "
I know, right? Better luck next time, Monica. Gah.....

I think there are four of us watching it, and we are probably the only four in the entire USA who are watching it.




 

MAÑANA

"Monica is in the bathroom fantasizing about kissing Camilo [I fantasize about giving this whole telenovela the title GAG ME WITH A SPOON" was excellent Judy. You captured so many details in your always wonderful way.

"the future looks rosy. And our "heroine" Monica is very unhappy to learn this good news. Excuse me if I have a problem with this "main character". But she really bugs me". Completely understandable.

So now that Diana is apparently going to live, where does the story go? There is no more Mon and Cam, correct? Monica will have to give up her inane fantasy about Cam and hopefully move on. Cam and Di will reconcile unless she can find yet another reason for them not to be together.

I admit the above rather morbid storyline had me wondering what would happen so I'm glad Diana will be OK.

doris, have fun tonight!

Judy, thank you for your selfless dedication!

Diana
 

MAÑANA

JudyB, thank you for your excellent "CliffNotes" of an interesting, if offputting, episode.

I have a beef with everybody in this TN, or just about everybody. Right now I can think of only one, possibly two, characters I don't have much of a problem with, Pablo and maybe Regina. Even Ximena, who I very much want to like, is on the list, and got on it quite early. When Diana went to Monica's apartment early one morning to propose the plan Ximena was there and had an "overnight guest" who padded out in his boxers to start smooching with Ximena, paying absolutely no mind to the other two women in the room, and she was fine with it. Tacky, tacky, tacky, and rude. Later she becomes a major force pushing Mónica to go after Camilo.

Cristóbal is the bad-tempered idiot child of the family. Why does he blame Camilo for Diana's troubles?
And I'm sure we're all disappointed in Monica's reaction to Diana's good prognosis. I suppose she will get over her funk, or it will be explained as her realization that the "plan" had been ridiculously stupid from the beginning.

So the "Nice" list has two names on it, with question marks.


I suspect this TN might, just might, get better now that we have turned the corner on Diana's dying soon. But even if it does get better, the well has already been poisoned. Why would anybody stay with this TN up to this point? Other than a very few masochists that is. And what could they do now to make it worth the suffering already inflicted? (On us I mean, not on the characters.)

I wonder how well this TN didn't do in Mexico, the stats would be interesting.

Doris, I am not sure we even have four of us watching. I think Diana doesn't actually watch, Anita is away, and I'm not sure Rgv Chickie is still here either.

Oy, caray!

andy
 

Helooooo Threesome! Yeah DORIS, we're now down to the only three in the U.S. who are watching it. Just you, me and Andy gathered around the feeble campfire. Dear Diana just stops by to be nice. She works during the day and has a killer commute to boot. I can't imagine this doleful story doing well anywhere but it evidently ran its full course in Mexico so what can I say? Cultural differences.

ANDY... I agree with everything you said (ohmigosh, is this the start of a trend?) Ximena is no prize. In spite of her hyper cuteness. But Pablo is definitely a keeper. (Can I have him?)Nothing like a broad-shouldered, eco-minded guy to make you excited about vegetables. Bring 'em on! And please, send Cristobal off to Brazil. Right now. I find him grating to the extreme.

Doris...Have fun at the hockey game. I am strictly a couch potato now when it comes to sports. I'd love to still go to games (although they'd be football ones) but my husband refuses to attend anymore. And going on my own is not much fun. Although I have done it once or twice.

Diana...You're the sweetest. You stop by and support, even though you can't watch and this show is an absolute dog. Te quiero amiga.
 

Judyb, thanks so much for biting the bullet and holding your nose and recapping this stinker.

Why exactly did The writers think that an audience would relate to these heartless, selfish, clueless characters.?

Camilo should have been devoted to standing by his wife and family. Period. Monica's sad face at Diana's good prognosis was disgusting. Ugh.
 

JudyB good recap. The episode.....well
The characters are abit on the weird side.

So moni is pist cuz lady di aren't not dying? Seriously? The woman was scared
She was dying and she wanted her hubby
Not to be alone. Of course I can't say
As I blame her. Buf when ths fkg clears she'll happy for her. She had a crush, then She was led to believe it was ok to go ahead and fall full head throttle in love With the future hubby widower. Who wont be a Widower cuz said wifey ain't dying. It Appears.
I haven't watched in a few days, so is
Rafa Havin the hots for monica? I was
Thinkin he was Likin her. This show is
Nuts.

I'm thinkin that since her aunts or her Gramma had cancer she may still be lookin forward to somethin going ratz.

I hope the craziness dissipates. And the cancer. I've never known anyone to Be sad cuz someone has or may beat
Cancer. Has she by the way? The lump
Removal was successful, does it mean
She's clear? I certainly hope so. Moni
Can find somebody else to crush on.
She should not have allowed herself to be pulled into that circus. And stop
Being sad that someone's not dying. Nutz I tell you, nutz.

Thanks JudyB. Don't think to hard on
This, you don't want a migraine.
 

MAÑANA

Judy, thanks again for your recap, but you have me worried now. "I agree with everything you said (ohmigosh, is this the start of a trend?)"

OMG, say it ain't so, Judy! Where's the fun in agreeing?   :-)

But yeah, "And please, send Cristobal off to Brazil." I have to agree with that. When he was talking to Paloma, he actually made her seem somewhat mature and level-headed, and that's not so easy to do.

I have to admit that I want to see if they can do anything to salvage this porquería. It's like seeing someone paint himself into a corner and then wondering, how on earth will he get out?

Susanlynn and Nina, you guys bring the current audience for this stinker up to about six victims.

andy
 

Count me in a another masochist victim. I don’t comment until late the following morning so you may not see my comments. Wednesdays have become busier so sometimes I read the recaps and comments but don’t have time to comment. Will comment later this morning on all the ‘ICKS” from yesterday’s episode.
 

MAÑANA

SUSANLYNN...Thanks for stopping by amiga. So far recapping this has been as much fun as a root canal (maybe less because my endodontist is really handsome); but I'm falling sway to ANDY's proposal that maybe we hang in there for a while to see "if they can do anything to salvage this porqueria". The writers and the main actors have certainly been inept so far.

I don't like the telenovela but I adore our little patio.

NINA...Don't blame you for not seeing much of this. We've got some verrrry interesting telenovelas at night, and there's only so much TV viewing time we can allot, no? Gotta keep the old bod' movin'. To answer your question about Rafa, no, I don't think he's hot for Monica. He likes her as a friend. And is concerned about her hopeless infatuation with his Dad.

I am trying to figure out the current motivation for the wretched writing and story arc in this show. I imagine they are wanting to show that the diagnosis of cancer is so devastating, that people are going to do and say crazy and hurtful things. And that the disease and the fear surrounding it are to blame. Also, they are pushing the current medical message that early mammography saves lives. So it's an extended, and so far unpleasant Public Service Announcement.

Hopefully, they'll let up on that particular accelerator now, and just give us a fun story of incipient romance with some likable characters that we can root for. Puh-leeze!
 

MAÑANA

We'll look forward to hearing more from you RGV CHICK. Gosh, the petite patio is getting downright crowded!
 

MAÑANA

Animals are fed and I had a quick breakfast; now I can relax at the patio a bit before getting on with other chores.

Thank you, JudyB, for your cliffnotes and the sides. I especially liked "Monica is in the bathroom fantasizing about kissing Camilo [I fantasize about giving this whole telenovela the title GAG ME WITH A SPOON". I'd really like to use that (cast iron) spoon and hit Moni over the head with it. I was appalled with her fantasizing and the look she gave when told that Diana would be fine. And I would use the spoon on Ximena and Cris (who are tied as the worst characters IMO) too.

JudyB, " I imagine they are wanting to show that the diagnosis of cancer is so devastating, that people are going to do and say crazy and hurtful things." What is wrong with these writers and where do they come from??? IIRC, someone on the patio mentioned that this TN may be based on a reality show. It that is the case, then I can understand all the crazy, hurtful stuff these amoebas are doing. In RL, I just can't believe that so many from a support circle would be so selfish and unfeeling...and this is supposed to be entertaining? And I'm wondering why they use up time with the wrestling scenes...they must be desperate to find fillers.

Nico continues to be my favorite character. I excuse him for blackmailing people because they deserve it. Pablo, Nora and Luis are still okay too. Chavela and Adrian...mehhh.





 

Nina and Susanlynn - it is so nice to see you both stopping by the Mañana table on the Patio! 💗
 

Hi RGV CHICK...Always glad to know you're as horrified by these storylines as I am. I'm never totally sure what I should chalk up to cultural differences and what is "just plain wrong".

Definitely use the spoon on Ximena and Cris as you said. Ximena's shrill "go for it, go after that married man!" was just Ugh. As for the random, curious wrestling scenes, don't know if that's thrown in for our male viewers (some of whom reportedly get off on women fighting each other...but surely not our Andy) or if it's going to tie in to the silly misunderstandings between Nora and Luis.

And defintely, everybody loves Nico. Man, he was so adorable snuggling up to Rafa. I would tuck him in my back pocket and take him home in a heartbeat.

And playing his part well also. Without overacting as so many child stars do.
 

MAÑANA #22 MONICA GROWS A SPINE AND TELLS OFF DIANA...AND RAFA TOO

Part 1

Other than Monica finally finding her voice (temporarily anyway) it was business as usual. Diana is still nailing herself to one cross, and nailing Camilo to another. Nora and Luis are still having stupid misunderstandings. Paloma still won't take Patricio's calls but it seems that Laura may be behind this. And not in a good way. (What's with these neurotic sisters?) Mauricio is still a slimy villain. Rafa is still trying to straighten everybody out. And Cristobal is still a complete and total jerk (the apple doesn't fall far from the tree).

That's the short version: Here's a somewhat longer one.

In the hospital, Diana is still looking like Death Warmed Over. And acting like it too. She continues to push Camilo away, while wailing that she could die from the chemo. After all her aunt did. So she needs her space. We'll put up a front for the children, but basically I want nothing to do with you. Camilo loses his temper, storms out and Diana goes into her Wah Wah Woe is Me, Pobrecita Face.

Camilo runs into Adrian in the corridor and wails that Diana doesn't love him and his marriage is going down the tubes. Adrian advises stepping back, going home, taking a shower and letting his mind clear. He'll stay and watch over Diana.

Weird scene change. Luis' sister talks over the police woes with a fellow wrestler and decides that Luis has nothing to worry about. But we learn that he once had legal problems. That's all we know for now.

Monica drags into the office, also looking like Death Warmed Over. When Rafa comes in to tell her about 11 am meeting, he also brings up the compromising position she and Camilo seemed to be in at the hospital cafeteria yesterday. She explodes and tells him to butt out of her life. She then has a phone call with Cam, where she says she's happy that Diana is well (liar, liar pants on fire!) but wants to know is HE is alright.
 

MAÑANA #22 MONICA GROWS A SPINE AND TELLS OFF DIANA...AND RAFA TOO

Part 2

Diana, still in Total Martyr Mode, refuses all food. Finally Adrian convinces her to take a few sips of the apple juice to help rid her system of the anesthetic. Chabela arrives and Diana sends Adrian off. Then Chabela asks why Adrian is here with her instead of Camilo. Diana adopts her usual Long Suffering Look and says nothing. (Why not admit that you ran him off Diana? Instead of acting like an innocent victim? Lord, this woman annoys me!) Chabela gives a reasonable pep talk about thinking positive and drawing closer to husband and family. Diana continues to look like she's on the brink of death.

So we switch to the office where Rafa is proposing that they change their product interview strategy. Rather than taking surveys in the office, let's do it in people's homes. Pablo and an unnamed female employee like the idea. Mauricio objects and says everything has to go through Camilo. Monica is completely lost in her own thoughts and after a while lumbers out.

Rafa makes one more try to talk to Monica. I want to protect you...you matter to me. Is there something going on between my dad and you? This goes nowhere.

As does the conversation between Luis and Nora. He's upset she followed him and assumed he was gay. She's upset because she feels misled. He's disappointed and take her off the friendship pedestal he put her on. She's all Woe Is Me. Another self-torturer. (Gosh, isn't this story fun!?)

Cristobal, All Time All World Olympic Champ Jerk, is yelling at Camilo--Why aren't you at the hospital with Mom? (First of all you stupid whelp, he WAS at the hospital. All night. In a chair. And she sent him off with nary a thank-you.) Camilo counters by mentioning Cristobal's poor performance and absences at school. Evidently this is part of a pattern. They've moved him from school to school as he gets kicked out of one after another.

Ugh. Back to the hospital. Chabela, as usual, is talking perfect sense to Diana. Stop being so hard on Camilo. Draw closer to him. Think about how you want the rest of your life to be.

Monica arrives, so Diana sends Chabela packing. Even though Chabe wants to stay and take care of her.

Oh boy, here it comes. Monica wants to know what happens if Diana heals from surgery and all is well. Oh, I'll fix you up with a boyfriend then. You're my and Camilo's best bud now, so I'll pair you up with his brother Adrian.

JUST WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE TO MICRO-MANAGE MY LIFE!?

Well said Monica. I still don't like you. You're a neurotic, co-dependent pain in the butt. But you sure said the right thing this time.


 

MAÑANA #22 MONICA GROWS A SPINE AND TELLS OFF DIANA...AND RAFA TOO

Part 3

Just in case Diana didn't get the message: Monica adds...THIS IS OVER!

Rafa is on the phone with his mysterious friend and is considering getting him a job at MediaLink so they can both uncover Mauricio's skullduggery. Luis' sister reassures him about his police fears, and while Nora overhears their tender conversation, she again misunderstands (Big sis actually told him to make up with Nora) and goes off to plunge into the Slough of Despond. (a popular vacation spot for telenovela characters).

But hey, guess who pulls her out of the Slough? Our broad-shouldered, guapo vegan Pablo. He assures Nora that her face is beautiful and her womanly curves enticing. After all, not every man wants those flacuchas [skinny minnies] and with Attitude, any woman is captivating. Sure enough, as soon as Nora stands up with a LOT of attitude, she looks very captivating indeed; and another male employee, passing by is like Wowza, you're looking soooo fine! Lesson learned. Guess we need to send Pablo to the hospital to school our maudlin, moody Diana.

Meanwhile our villain, Mauricio, is acting like a villain. When Rafa leaves for lunch, he closes all the blinds and gets to work on the computer while tense, Danger! Danger! theme music plays in the background.

The Amoeba Clan, complete with poster, arrive at the hospital. Diana, still hanging from the cross, doesn't want to see them. (We're going to need an entire Hope Chest of Gag Spoons for this character.) However, they're allowed to trickle into the room briefly and show her the poster, while she manages a dismal smile.

But time for tests now. Manny and Maggie arrive with flowers, but since Diana is otherwise engaged, they invite everybody over for grilled hamburgers and chocolate cake. Nico negotiates some extra special touches for the dessert (Definitely future head of MediaLink, this kid.) Everybody is on board but Cristobal who is no doubt headed for his own Slough of Despond. He can drown there for all I care.

Bikini Alert for Andy! Yes, Paloma looks so good in Maggie's bikini, the latter gives it to her. And wants to show Regina her new room that she can move into immediately! Meanwhile, Manny grills the hamburgers and watches over Nico who, ensconced in an inner tube, is floating in the in-house pool. Barbi, being Barbi, sits and frets.

Back at the house, Adrian tells Camilo about the dinner invite and counsels him to be a little more friendly towards Maggie and Manny. They're good people after all.

Diana is wheeled off for some tests looking like she's headed for the guillotine. Once those are over and she's back in her room, Rafa arrives. Tells her the family is great which she immediately interprets as " They don't miss me at all." (Spoon please, maestro!) Rafa goes into positivity overdrive, reassuring her that she's handled this disease like a Warrior (I beg to differ) and it represents the perfect time to re-evaluate her life and what she wants out of it.

Meanwhile Monica is at the perpetually unlocked door of the Sarmiento home. Walks in, finds Camilo and says they need to talk. He has something to ask first: "Is it true that you're in love with me?"

And there we end.

Another unpleasant episode about unpleasant, neurotic, self-defeating people. Please writers, give us a bone. If this keeps up, we might lumber into the Slough of Despond ourselves!
 

MAÑANA

Judy, Judy, Judy...

"As for the random, curious wrestling scenes, don't know if that's thrown in for our male viewers (some of whom reportedly get off on women fighting each other...but surely not our Andy)..."

Ah, Judy, many women misunderstand our interest in such things. Men tend to be scientifically oriented and appreciate seeing demonstrations of classical physics. You may remember the first law of motion, "Bodies in motion tend to show off the goodies better." It's interest in science, really.

Some forms of dancing serve as well as fighting, but women fighting each other is additionally a great boon to male bonding as guys get to yell "Catfight!" in unison, and then make comments on the action, such as "OMG, this is getting serious! The blonde just broke a nail!" and "Wow! Look at the great, um, technique, on the brunette."

Of course, we also recognize that sometimes such scenes are often just crass commercial forms of titillation, and this, too, can foster male bonding as we all loudly and vociferously disparage such exploitation, often, again, in unison. Women should never doubt our support.

"... or if it's going to tie in to the silly misunderstandings between Nora and Luis." Yeah, that too.

:-)


And thank you for the recap, you're a trouper! Comments later, I've got to run.

andy
 

MAÑANA

Judy - thank you for your recap. It was actually better than this episode because of your snarky commentary. ;-) I was sewing while "watching" and actually had to pay attention to what I was doing, so I missed half the stuff you listed in your recap.

Los Gonzalez are on my last nerve, telling Regi her room is ready when only 48 hours before, Regi's parents are all "over my dead body are you moving out." Seriously, what is wrong with this couple? They seem to have no respect for Di and Cam's wishes and the fact that Regina is still a minor in the eyes of the law. . . like that even matters in telenovelaland. Just harvest Regi's baby is all they can think about.

Nora sure looked good after Pablo's "makeover." Once she stood up straight, it was plenty obvious Luis could suffocate himself in her ... um ... never mind. ;-)

Well, at least Diana is ready to fix up Monica with someone else.

"the Slough of Despond" Oh Judy, Pilgrim's Progress! I never read it, but it was referred to often enough in some series of books I read as a young girl.
 

Andy - LOL!!!
 

MAÑANA

The recap and comments are on fire tonight.

Judy, I have a happy dilemma. This was so chock full of delicious expressions, it simply wasn't possible to pick a favorite.

So, tied for that honor are "stupid whelp" and "Slough of Despond". I must find some way to use "stupid whelp" conversationally. Both made me smile. Broadly.

I'm not done.

"Diana is still nailing herself to one cross, and nailing Camilo to another", "Total Martyr Mode" and "Diana, still hanging from the cross" were splendid.

So, if I am understanding this correctly, Diana seems to be making a conscious decision to be miserable. And unhappy. Despite the fact she has more than a fighting chance to beat cancer. Is that correct? She is still being shrewish to her husband yet she is going to stop trying to pawn Monica off on him. In view of this confounding storyline, this seems to be a major victory for sanity. Well, such as it exists in this show.

andy, "Of course, we also recognize that sometimes such scenes are often just crass commercial forms of titillation, and this, too, can foster male bonding as we all loudly and vociferously disparage such exploitation, often, again, in unison. Women should never doubt our support" was just excellent.

"Once she stood up straight, it was plenty obvious Luis could suffocate himself in her ... um ... never mind. ;-)" - loved it doris.

Thank you talented trio for a very enjoyable read. Judy, you have really outdone yourself tonight!

Thank you!

Diana

 

DIANA...I so agree...the comments were on fire tonight. Made it well worth recapping this horror of a story. Telenovela Diana is hedging her bets. She's still being nasty to Camilo in case she dies; but if she doesn't she plans to palm off Adrian on Monica. In other words, she's still the Star in her own Drama and wanting to pull all the strings. Hardly a sympathetic heroine.

ANDY, ANDY, ANDY....You are cracking us all up tonight, me, Doris, Diana and any lurkers I'm sure. Thank you for that most excellent resumé of Why Men Do What They Do and Like What They Like. Made perfect sense to me. And gave me the best laugh of the day.

DORIS...Ah mi Vida! You had to go there! Yes, about Nora, the French would say "Il y a du monde au balcon" [there's a crowd on the balcony] Certainly would be a nice pillow for skinny scarecrow Luis. He looks seriously underfed. They may well have a happy future as Jack Sprat and his well-nourished wife.
 

MAÑANA

NudyB, thank you for the bikini alert and thank you for another excellent recap. I was out when the show aired but got back home in time to see the last half. I'm not sure it makes a whole lot of sense to watch a recording of the first half after having seen the second half, and now that I have read your recap I'll just skip watching and save myself a little suffering. Judy, you put a lot into your recaps; they are intelligent and literate and they are a pleasure to read. Thank you.

Doris, thank you for letting me know that "Slough of Despond" is from Pilgrim's Progress. I never read it either, though I may have written a book report about it in high school.

There was a lot of the usual craziness in this episode, but I suppose there are changes coming. Diana is in no immediate danger of dying and Camilo asked Monica point blank about her being in love with him. I'm hoping we get a decent restart to this TN on Monday. But I'm sure we all wonder how the producers of this show could have gone so wrong. The story up to now has been absolutely miserable and they must have lost lots of viewers with every episode. We are still here only because of the patio, watching (except for Diana :) and sharing and suffering together. It's something like The Rocky Horror Picture Show in that sense, except that most of us probably don't dress up in costume for this.

andy
 

Andy - " I never read it either, though I may have written a book report about it in high school."
And more LOLz! Brings back memories.
Our son was supposed to read The Robe over the summer before his senior year in high school. He and one of his best buddies did not, and they still got an A on the test when school started back up ..l and were quite smug about it. 🙄
 

Oh for heaven's sake, you guys...NOBODY'S EVER READ PILGRIM'S PROGRESS! Except my brother's former mother-in-law...a great gal with a wonderful sense of humor who taught English for a gazillion years. Joanne used to throw Slough of Despond into the conversation at odd moments and it always cracked me up. So now I sling it around whenever possible because there's just something about it that makes self-pity and sulking hilarious.

And while I'm thinking about it, Pilgrim's Progress is probably why Ciffnotes were invented.

Thanks Warm and Wonderful Patio. Petite in numbers but Awesome in humor.
 

OF Judyb...ha.. Pilgrims Progress. I came within a credit or two of a minor in English , so I am familiar with so many books that nobody ever really reads. The little, old maiden lady who taught me Latin, French, and literature had us memorize lines from Shakespeare that I finally understood as I got older and the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune started flying at me .
 

OT

"Oh for heaven's sake, you guys...NOBODY'S EVER READ PILGRIM'S PROGRESS!" Thank you, Judy! I and my conscience are much relieved.

:-)

Doris, "...and they still got an A on the test when school started back up"

Been there, done that. More than once. I will admit that many of the assigned works that I did not read back then I did read later when they were no longer "required". And I was often surprised how good they were.

One novel I actually did read as a 14 year old high school freshman was Great Expectations, which immediately became my favorite novel and remained so for quite some time. Of course, the first time I read it, at 14, the novel was all about Pip, Miss Havisham, and the beautiful Estella. The rest of it was just stuff and nonsense. Sometimes interesting stuff and nonsense, but stuff and nonsense nonetheless.

It largely remained this way through the first rereading, whenever that was. But I reread it several times after that and the doggone thing kept changing, and other parts of the novel became more important than they had been. I now think that Great Expectations was somehow tracking my course through life and, especially, my hormone levels.

:-p

andy
 

SUSANLYNN and ANDY....I love these OT discussions. Ah the many books we didn’t read! Or read and didn’t understand. And then did understand all too well. Growing up is definitely a turbulent roller coaster ride and sometimes the wisdom of these great authors helps. But not always. Still...they are part of the warp and woof of our lives. My mom never went to college but she knew all the great quotes from Shakespeare and drummed them into us growing up. As well as a few Biblical threats as well! LOL And now I think I’m going to google Pilgrim’s Progress and see if there are any other gems. Somehow I suspect Slough of Despond is the only one worth remembering.
 

Andy .... gah! now I'll have to go read Great Expectations!
I read it in Jr. high or high school, and once saw a ancient movie version. It is amazing how we can read something more than once, over the years, and we notice different things, or it will have a different meaning to us at that point in time.

Maybe we can ditch Mañana and start a book club. Just sayin'.....
 

OT..okay, Judyb, as I was reading your comment and Andy's , they brought back memories of the first time I noticed hub . My boyfriend had just broken up with me and started dating my friend and then I had a bad car accident .... not A good year for me. A few months later , I was working behind the circulation desk at my high school libray. I looked up and saw this handsome guy aporoaching. He had black hair and dark eyes with long eyelashes and was wearing a black letter sweater and carrying a thick book. Wow ...goodlooking, athletic , and a reader. Then , he set the book on the counter, and I said, " That is a big book about the submarine service! " " Yes, says mystery man, " I have a book report, and I always get a book with a jacket. " Wow , I think ...he is also neat. Then, he adds" I copy what is on the cover for my book report. " uhoh...However, I still said yes to a date. Best. DEcision. I. Ever. Made. ...and my fondest memory ....the day that started a very happy life together.
 

Susanlynn - LOL! What a great story and memory for you. 💗💗💗
 

Susanlynn, wow, that's a great story! And it provides two good reasons why you could add "smart" to your description of young Hub, 1) his use of the book jacket, and 2) the fact that he asked you out.

:-)

andy
 

SUSANLYNN....I love that story but this is the first time I've heard the hilarious details about the jacket and how Hub always used the blurb for his book reports. Smart guy indeed--as ANDY noted, both for his strategic thinking and for asking you out. I can't think of anything more lovely than marrying your high school sweetheart and having a loving marriage that lasted. There are so few cases like that, alas.

So a toast to your beloved husband today, on this very sad anniversary. But it is also a celebration of a love that endured through many challenges and sorrows, and that still thrives today.

Our earthly bodies, sadly, do not last forever. But true love is eternal.
 

Good Morning, Patio!

JudyB, another gold star for you! Thank you for such an entertaining recap--it's wa-a-a-ay better than the episode!

Diana is really off her rocker and Cami is an idiot--they deserve each other. I'm fed up with these two; so I think I'll just cover my ears and say "Blah, blah, blah..." when they are on. If I were recording this, I'd FFW through their scenes. Come to think of it, I'd probably FFW through most of the show LOL

Susanlynn, I just love to read about your experiences with your hub; you were and still are so blessed. You have a huge treasure chest of fond memories of the love of your life; thank you for sharing such wonderful times (((hugs)))
 

Hello RGV CHICK....Yes, I think we are all baffled by how unpleasant this story and these characters seem to be. The production values are high, clearly the budget is there for good actors, but the story and the individuals in it are as close to repulsive as any telenovela I've ever watched.

Going to try and remain ANDY-OPTIMISTIC and wait and see if they can right the ship and make the next two-thirds more positive and engaging.

Keeping my fingers crossed that it will get better rather than worse. Thanks for stopping by Rgv Chick. Always good to hear from you.

Rainy and gloomy here. But the drought-starved lawns are saying Thank you Thank you!
 

OT ..Thanks❤, Doris, Andy, Chickie, Judy b

Another gray, rainy day here. I will try to be optimistic ...Andymistic ?...when I watch today's episode which I hope is not as gloomy as this weather is today.


 

Doris...Would you be able to do a mini-recap on Wednesday? I'm out and about that afternoon again. Eternally grateful for your help if you are able. And even if not!
 

JudgB, I don't know which I enjoyed
Most, the Recap or the comments. Now the Recap was fun and Full of snark.

And these comments, so funny. I gotta
Say I think lady di-ing is a bit very
disappointed that she's not. Now that is just sick. There are so many women
Who would love to get that prognosis
And tell their husbands and have their husband's wrap them in Their arms with happy tears. BUT NOOO! This twit, this
Not dying twit seems to be somewhat disappointed that she won't be able
Wallow anymore. Who does that. Now I
Suppose I should give her the benefit
Of the doubt, cancer would scare the hell outta anybody, have them thinkin all kinds of crazy crazy. But she got
Reason to be happy happy. Embrace her
Husband, instead of pushing him away.
"It's just a show, it's just a show".
Yeah, full of annoying characters. I haven't watched it much becuz of work.
But I can see it's driving y'all nuts.
Maybe since its getting closer to the
Holidays it'll perk up. Maybe?

Ok, gotta go. Maybe I'll get to watch
It today.
Andy, you may remember the first law of motion, "Bodies in Motion tend to show off the goodies better". it's interest in science, really. O Andy I
Are such a man. Lol.

I will come back and visit the patio
Later. This tn is really a Humdinger yall. Lol.

Thank you JudyB. It's driving you nuts
But hang in there. Just reading yalls
Recaps are makin it fun.

 

My auto correct wants my U to be an I.
I do not like auto correct.
"O Andy U are such a man" ^^^^^^
 

JUDY - Sorry, I am out all day Wednesday and cannot help out. I can do one either Thursday or Friday, and that might be my swan song as I will probably drop this to watch Hijas de la Luna. Hockey season has begun and my TV time is limited. Always difficult for me to watch two, and I might try to follow Cuna de Lobos .... ack.