Caray, Caray!

Dulce Ambición Thursday

For everyone who couldn’t handle the previous episodes violence, your prayers have been answered! This one is (mostly) as light and sweet as angel food cake!

Spanish and Portuguese accent marks are a little different, so I hope I can keep them straight!

For background, Maria da Paz is a child in a small ranching town who loves nothing more than making cakes with her grandmother, family matriarch Dulce Ramirez. Grown up, she falls in love with Amadeu Matheus as they are horseback riding on the range. They discover they are from feuding families, but decide to marry anyhow. The wedding becomes a blood bath with Amadeu shot and Maria escaping. The killings between the two families continue with Maria’s sister Zenaida getting it in the stomach on the beach and her two little girls going missing. Maria escapes to São Paulo and gets a job with a wealthy family as a domestic.

Well, in tonight’s episode, after a brief recap of the two nieces being frightened by some bad men, we see Maria da Paz reliving her boss telling her she’s pregnant. “I’m sorry,” Dona Gladys tells her, “but you have to go.” Why, pregnancy is not a disease. “You have to go because the law protects you, we’d have to give you maternity leave. Here’s an envelope, put your uniform on the bed, put on the clothes you came in and get out.” But Gladys smiles, “It really is for YOUR benefit. I’m sure you’ll figure it out.” As soon as Maria is out of earshot, Glady’s son and daughter whisper, “She’s too stupid to know her rights.”

Outside, Glady’s other son, Regis, drives up in a little red sports car in tennis whites. How chic!, Maria says. Maria tells him she’s been fired because she’s pregnant and Regis asks, “So do you know the father or was it someone you sexed up at a ‘funk’ party?” Maria goes, Huh? what’s a funk party? Regis just shakes his head and says, “Get in, I’ll drop you off.” Oh, he’s a charmer and he gives her a kiss on the cheek and a wink after leaving her.

Marlene gets the same smile on her face as Gladys as she tries to convince Maria that it would be for her own good if she got a new job and found her own place to live. “I’m sure you’ll figure it out!” Maria looks a bit panicky but then says, “Can I at least make you a cake?” Sure!

As she beats the batter, Maria daydreams of passionately kissing Amadeu on the range, while Marlene calls back to the town and speaks to the village priest to find out if anyone has seen Amadeu. “No news is good news,” she blithely tells Maria after the call.

Eusebio and the neighbor children are drawn by the delicious odor of Maria’s cake and they all have a piece, “pedaço”. Eusebio suddenly has a brainstorm. “We’ll sell your cake in the street to office workers!” Everyone cheers, “YAY!”

Marlene drops by an old richer friend to borrow a car. “This girl is going to drive around town and sell cake out of the back.” Not a food truck, but a cake trunk! They get the car and Maria says she needs flour and sugar and eggs and chocolate, to make a chocolate cake, and “brigadeiros” and pineapple cake. As she opens the dusty hatchback, she declares, “I have a feeling we’re going to sell a lot of cake out of this car!”
 

PART II



BRIGADEIROS are little balls of tooth aching sweetness, compacted condensed milk and cocoa rolled in chocolate sprinkles.
https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/brigadeiros

Meanwhile, in Vitória, the capital of Espírito Santo, Amadeu lies in a hospital bed surrounded by his mother and some doctors. “You’ll probably never walk again. But… if you do a lot of physical therapy, and put in a lot of effort…” Amadeu daydreams of Maria da Paz talking off her shirt (she’s got a big ol white lacy Playtex on, however), and then declares, “I’ll do it, doctor!”

Back at the ranch, Grandma Dulce (grande dame of Brazilian cinema Fernanda Montenegro, born in 1929!) vows to “humiliate” the Mateos. She goes out alone to their house in her horse drawn wagon and walks to their door holding a white cloth. “I come in peace,” she tells Manuel (Miroel in Brazil). She wants a tête à tête with Manuel. “This piece of leather was found in your orchard. It was my granddaughter Zenaida’s. What happened to her?” Manuel smacks his son Vicente, “I told you to burn that!” He turns to Dulce. “Your granddaughter escaped but my son will never walk again.”
Well, no, they did shoot Zenaida on the beach. But what about Zenaida’s little daughters, Fabiana and Virgínia? Manuel tells Dulce that Virgínia ran away, “and this,” holding up a bloody child’s sweater, “ is all that’s left” of Fabiana.

Dulce, who had been trying to get on her knees to beg Manuel for the info, is filled with rage. “You’ll burn in hell! You don’t murder children!” She pulls a pistol from her skirt and shoots Manuel and his daughter Ticiana point blank. Vicente has a gun and points it at her. Before delivering the coup de grâce, he yells, “You stupid old woman, the girls are alive!” But Dulce is too fast and shoots him dead, too.
Hobbling, she spies a conveniently placed can of lighter fluid and spreads it around. With maybe her last bullet, she shoots out the gas light (what century is this?) and the place begins to burn. She makes it up to her wagon, seeing a horse in flames gallop away in the distance. She whips her own and hightails it back to the ranch.

A young boy, Ticiana’s son Rael, saw the shooting from the window and he watches Dulce’s wagon drive off, tears rolling down his cheeks.

Dulce is in bed losing a lot of blood. She tells her children Adão and Evelina that their daughter, her granddaughter, Zenaida was killed on the beach but the girls are alive. Find them! “It’s no use calling the doctor. My work on earth is done. I can die happy!” And she does.

Maria, back in São Paulo, suddenly wants to make a phone call. The village priest says your mom is here and she has some news. Amadeu? No, grandma is dead. “I promise I will find the girls,” Maria declares, “no matter what!”
 

DULCE

Thank you, Di! I’ve continued watching this hoping that the carnage would be over soon. Hopefully last night was the last of it. I only got to see the last 15 minutes of this last night so I do appreciate you filling in the rest.

That Grandma Dulce sure is a spitfire! I couldn’t believe Manuel fell for her act, but I’’m glad granny did what she did and was able to find out that both Fabiana and Virginia are still alive.
 

DULCE


WOW! Thank you, Di! I didn't know anyone was going to do this! I've recorded every episode so far, so I can either watch them or not, knowing this is being covered. I'm a proud pearl clutcher when it comes to violence and not a bit ashamed! Haven't read this yet. Let me post MEDICOS and I look forward to this as a sweet treat later. Obrigado!
 

MÉDICOS #36, 9-2-20


Hola, Peeps! Bienvenido a todos! Here on the MÉDICOS Patio, all are welcome and the company is the best thing as we support each other through a, so far, loveless novella! That being said, I will try to be efficient in my summary, so as not to add to our frustration! As always, peace and healing vibes to Anita and anyone out there facing health and simply life challenges!


We open on an upbeat as Regina, Daniel and David exit the OR. Daniel is grateful for the opportunity to work with Regina; he learned so much! Daniel leaves. David tries to get his groove back, expressing his admiration for how Regina treats her patient. She graciously brushes it off. No, David insists it makes a difference, the way she makes each of them feel better. Just as Team David is about to inhale the much-needed loving vibes he’s beaming toward Regina, Luis and Paulina join them. Regina updates them on Mauricio’s surgery, the boy’s arrest, resuscitation and successful surgery done by Gonzalo. I don’t know where she and Luis are coming from, but Paulina states she wants to examine Mauricio before she leaves. Luis is standing like a statue while she speaks and then quite visibly melts a little inside when Paulina touches his shoulder and says, “It was good to see you again.” OH, SNAP! BUSTED!! In a rare flash of humor, at least for me, David immediately looks at Regina, both of whom have the immediate insight that Luis’ world has been rocked right before their very eyes! Go back and replay it, it is RICH the way David very quickly shook his head, then looked at Regina as Luis stammered, Igual…mente. “Are you all right, Regina asks.” Art immediately confesses that Paulina is the woman he had an affair with; an affair that almost destroyed his family. David and Regina look at each other. It is so clear to them and to us, that Paulina made the earth move for Luis and he is still quaking: Paulina’s appearance was a total surprise: today was the first time he has seen her since they broke up. Luis describes the strong attraction she held for him; her intelligence, their shared lifestyle and devotion to the medical profession. He admits she still is a great woman, but that he loves his wife! [Nobody does nervous like Carlos de la Mota and he brings it to the character!] David gently urges Luis to “calm down, bro, I understand how that can happen.” Regina offers to release him from covering Mauricio’s case. No, no, no, he can continue to care for Mauricio; he and Paulina will maintain a strictly professional relationship. David’s beautiful, expressive face is like, “yaaaaah, Right!” [Recapper’s privilege to gush over her telenovio as the writers are not giving her a reason to do so!]



 

MÉDICOS #37, 9-3-20 Wrong label above


Our David tries again to peel back the tense layer of hostility that has covered their interactions of late. As they walk through a patient waiting area, he tells her he likes how she handled Mauricio’s arrest; she works well under pressure. She is very tired but, she couldn’t lose Mauricio: she doesn’t know what face she would present to Sandra if he had died. Well, that didn’t happen. Mauricio is well, and that’s because of you. Regina cranks her neck. [I notice Regina is not wearing a turtleneck and her boobage is not showing.] It was just teamwork. Yes, David says with a smile; when we are together and connected, we all work better. [Ooooooh, BABY!] “Without Arturito’s meddling, of course,” he adds. Regina sighs, “Seriously….” And tries to walk away. David gently pulls her back. “Seriously, why are we fighting?” he asks. They’re not fighting, “it’s just that if you say something that bugs me, I’ll tell you about it!” “Ah, Regina, ya, porfa!” Her phone chimes and she remarks she’s got so many messages from Arturo. David looks at his watch and announces he’s going to see patients! Seriously, she asks? He and we throw up our hands and stride away. That’s it, Team David! Oh, it’s not! David goes to the gym and gives us a fine show of his lightly glistening biceps and upper torso as he works out with the weights! Ah! Random Chick [Perla, Jacky, I don’t know what her name is!] checks in. How’s it going, heaving, hot hunk of burnin’ luuuurve! He’s fine. She’ll take a raincheck for a private workout. David looks appreciatively at her departing tusch! […Love the one your with!...]


Ok, Peeps, a large part of this prickly episode concerns the ongoing sabotage by Rene and Miryea. The hospital is still sweltering and Rene pops in on one of Cinthia’s patients to make sure she’s appropriately aggravated. Cinthia confronts him, asking why this unprecedented visit to a patient. Oh, it’s part of his duty as Gonzalo is otherwise occupied. Rene leaves this confrontation and calls Montesinos, interrupting his golf game to tell him of the chaos in the Instituto. The hospital is an oven and patient care is being compromised enough that one patient, whose surgery was done outside the operating room, is threatening to sue the Instituto. Rene has no idea why Gonzalo won’t accept his offer of help; Gonzalo uses whatever pretext he can to dodge his administrative responsibilities! This has the desired effect and Montesinos calls Gonzalo and grills him about what the demonio is going on! Gonzalo does not know about Victor’s surgery or the threatened law suit (which Montesinos blames on Regina’s mismanagement in the ER, where the surgery took place), and wonders how Montesinos has such up to date information on happenings in the Instituto! Montesinos says he gets “calls” about the Instituto; Gonzalo knows immediately it is Rene! Gonzalo mounts a strong defense not only of his reason for not being aware of the outside-the-OR surgery, but his appropriate handling of the bureaucratic snafu of the AC. Gonzalo didn’t know about Victor’s surgery because he was performing surgery on a patient who needed his skill as a Neurosurgeon! He will continue to use his clinical skills where needed while taking care of administrative tasks. Gonzalo hangs up after he makes his point.
 

MÉDICOS #367, 9-3-20


The chain reaction continues as Gonzalos storms into Rene’s office and digs him out royally. Rene tries to play innocent but Gonzalo cuts to the chase: What’s his game? What is he after? Oh, the same thing you are, to care for the Instituto and its patients, he lies. Again, Gonzalo maintains that as director he will be wherever he chooses to fulfill his responsibilities for the entire Instituto: in surgery, with patients, in the office and in the future, if Rene has any issues, he is to come to him first as Director, and NOT to Montesinos. Peeps, feel free to fill in finer points of this confrontation. Unshaken, Rene makes some snide remark with his forked tongue after Gonzalo leaves. Pet Rat, Marco takes Lili out to get dirt for his master. Lili drops a dime about the (maybe true) rumors that Regina plied her charms with Gonzalo to become Director of the ER; Miryea is insufferable and Diego was in charge of tallying supplies the day of the car accident involving Luz’s daughter and friends. The impossibly pretty and naïve Lili asks the rat not to tell anybody what she has shared.


A succession of Instituto staff involved in Victor’s family’s care go to talk with him to try to apologize for his discomfort and explain the events of the very difficult day he and his family were admitted. Luis and David go first; Regina and Gonzalo go next. Regina had been asked by Sandra to talk to her husband; she was concerned and confused about his anger. Long story short. Victor is an a$$hole, an injured one, but an a$$hole nonetheless, unmoved by the very Doctors who saved his own and his son’s life; unimpressed that the surgery needed to be done immediately to save his life and was done where he lay because operating rooms were not available. He didn’t care that the Doctors, including the Director were busy saving his own son’s life! THEY ARE GUILTY OF MALPRACTICE, AND THEY ARE GOING TO PAY!


Other hospital stuff: Rafa sees Cinthia without her scrub top, she lets him get a good look, they engage in a little verbal foreplay which Cinthia teasingly interrupts by putting on a different top, approaching him in kissing distance and then coolly walking away, telling him to knock next time. Rafa lightly bangs his head on a post. Pamela and Tania must have argued. Seems Tania must’ve called her a spoiled brat. Pamela stands up to Tania and at first refuses her apology saying she’s not ashamed of her background and she works just as damned hard as everybody else. Pamela eventually gives in and the two share a hug and declare their mutual affection; Tania says Pamela is sweaty. Diego seems about to confess to Tania about his theft as she grouses about the pay cut. He does not.


Finally, Regina calls Art back after David walked away in frustration. He’s doing badly; she agrees to come to his apartment after work. At the end of the work day, there is Art, dressed in black, at the hospital. He tells her he is doing badly. Ana happens to walk by and make sure Regina sees her by wishing both a good evening. Art breaks down as Regina embraces her. He needs her. In his apartment they talk. He shares about his Mother’s death by overdose of antidepressants. She shares about her Father’s painful fight with bone cancer. Art seizes upon this as evidence of a shared close, emotional connection that fuels their desire to help people. He needs a woman like her in his life. Regina does not smile, but rather looks a bit exasperated. THE END FOR TODAY.

 

MEDICOS


Art breaks down as Regina embraces him.
 

DULCE

Lila, this show does have its perks...young, lean hunk taking a shower RAWWRR! Of course they only show the torso, but, hey, algo es algo :-D
 

MEDICOS

There were Univision transmission issues last night so I was not able to watch.

Lila, it was a privilege to be able to absorb all of this through your sharp and witty perception. Another fabulous recap.

Completely lamenting the fact I missed “In a rare flash of humor, at least for me, David immediately looks at Regina, both of whom have the immediate insight that Luis’ world has been rocked right before their very eyes!” Drat!!! “Paulina made the earth move for Luis and he is still quaking” made no doubt the past is very much alive and in the flesh (so to speak). Troubled waters surely ahead.

"David’s beautiful, expressive face is like, “yaaaaah, Right!” [Recapper’s privilege to gush over her telenovio as the writers are not giving her a reason to do so!]". I sigh dreamily.

"the impossibly pretty and naïve Lili" may be true but loose lips sink ships. She should know better! I thought she was too smart to fall for smarmy, vacuous Marco’s “charms”. Blech.

At least Regina has her wits about her and not allowing Art's (very real and painful) pleas to goad her into any admission or action she does not feel.

Gonzalo is being called on the carpet at every available opportunity. I wish he would just go back to where he is desperately needed and appreciated and where he is happiest. In the Emergency and Operating Room.

"Victor is an a$$hole, an injured one, but an a$$hole nonetheless, unmoved by the very Doctors who saved his own and his son’s life" is almost unfathomable. Where is the knowledge, the understanding, the gratitude that a miracle has occurred? His son is alive. Rene is simply reprehensible (and I missed him not a bit).

Lila, unlike Victor, I am grateful and appreciative of your fantastic summary! Gracias amiga.

Diana
 

DULCE

RGV Chick,

The violence has to end soon because there almost isn't anyone left in the small town of Rio Vermelho! (which is just plain old Red River, not Bermelló/Vermilion like the Spanish translation)

The shootings haven't been that gory, especially with the beautiful photography of this novela, which looks like handpainted sepiatone. But they are SO SHOCKING, with the loud bang and the burst of blood, and therefore very disturbing. The Brazilian broadcast carries a warning "Not recommended for under 10 years of age: Violence". I would change that to 45!

I am very intrigued by Maria da Paz and how she stays so peaceful, like her name, hopeful and even joyful despite having experienced her "noivo" almost bleed out in her arms. It's not just novela nonsense, even though they have the usual novela trope of the poor ranch girl suddenly finding extreme wealth in the big city. It's kind of uplifting.

I just saw the teaser for tonight, and Amadeu's mom has her gun out, so there's that. But I hope there's going to be lots of kitchen activity tonight as Maria da Paz gets her bake on to fill that hatchback with goodies for her new business!!

 

DULCE

RgvChick I am so totally there!

this show does have its perks...young, lean hunk taking a shower RAWWRR! Of course they only show the torso, but, hey, algo es algo :-D

Can't wait to get done with this pesky work stuff! Thanks, Girl!
 

MEDICOS


Oh, Diana! You gonna make my widdo head just bust wiiiide open! Thank you, Girl!

OMG, Diana! Luis is so gone for this Paulina chick! Poor Susana and Gabriel, and poor him! I see him going for another tumble, thinking it's worth the risk and then Paulina dumping him just to get back at him for dumping her the first time. Poor him because Susana will have had it and kick Luis to the curb!


Maybe I have telenovia/galan deprivation syndrome, but David was so beautiful to me last night! Imagine what he looks like with requited love. And those arms! Mercy!!


Yah, lets take gullible Montesinos down a whole bunch of points. Idiot! Two episodes of skullduggery and sabotage: I know it's not over. Can't wait to see how the dirty duo get paid back!


Hope you can watch tonight, Amiga, here is what I am hoping will continue:


At least Regina has her wits about her and not allowing Art's (very real and painful) pleas to goad her into any admission or action she does not feel.

Muchisimas Gracias!


 

MEDICOS 35/45

Thanks for your tireless work, Lila. This was a whole episode.

Lili wasn't as smart as we thought. Rats! Diego's goose is cooked now. I am shuddering at what will happen to our medical Robin Hood.

Someone refresh my memory about whether there was an available OR which Mireya kept the ER team out of when they had to operate on Victor. They saved his life, but he intends to sue because of Mireya's verbal venom. Unless something goes wrong he should not win that suit, but the hospital's rep will still take a hit.

Someone asked yesterday whether this actor was in MDC, but he wasn't. It was another actor who went grey prematurely named Ramiro Fumazoni.

More later.
 

MEDICOS


You are SO WELCOME, Urbanita!


Alas, yes, Lili is not real smart, or, her desire to have a DOCTOR take her out has overcome her caution. She's certainly a young woman of humble origins, might be helping parents make ends meet. I don't mean to imply she is gold-digging for a Doc but she seems level-headed, fair and decent. Miryea assigns her double and triple shifts just because she's a be-yatch and Lili has to put up with the abuse because she needs the job. She does not seem to have a social life and it's natural to cast one's eyes at the young Residents and dream of taking one off the market and securing one's future. Nurses get to know Residents and Attendings very well (speaking platonically) in an environment that does pull people close because of the emotionally intense work of saving lives. I don't see that kind of relationship with Marco. Lili is going to learn the hard way that she had dinner with a rat. I do hope she and Daniel can find each other. They seem to have the same level of innocence in life.


Hmmm, Urban! I hope someone can answer your OR question. If I get a chance I'll look back. That's an excellent question!


 

Medicos

Yessss I loved David’s facial expressions!! Speaking of Daniel Arenas and facial expressions lol did anyone see him in Amorcito Corazón? It’s a comedic role and fits him to a T. I would say that’s the best role Daniel Arenas has ever done! Anyway, amorcito corazón is going to start airing again this Monday on Galavision at 12pm/11c if anyone is interested!
 

Medicos


“He and we throw up our hands and stride away” exactly!!

And if they’re going to keep dragging on without some passionate love between the protas, the least they could do is give us more scenes of our telenovio David at the gym!! Haha

 

DULCE

How nice to have a knowledgeable recapper, who understands both Spanish and Portuguese, to give us rundowns on this new Brazilian show. Granny is certainly an amazing, tough woman, so maybe that's where Maria de la Paz gets her relentless energy and optimism. I'm glad to learn that her dear fiancé has survived the shooting, even if Life is separating them right now. We need shows that give us some kind of hope in this dark time.

Thanks for stepping up DI. I think you may be able to build a following for this show. That would be terrific.
 

Medicos. Superb recap, Lila! You have a real talent! "snide remarks with a forked tongue": Loved it! I must say, Cinthia was wearing a great bra. :) And I assume that a major confrontation between Pamela and Tania was cut. Why are they in such a hurry to start the next tn?
 

MEDICOS

LILA, I love it that you call URBAN URBANITA! Great nickname. And you're becoming an absolute whiz at synthesizing the important action while hitting the highlights. I have to fast-forward through every Rene-Mireya scene as always (what poisonous vipers!!!!!) but did watch oily little Marco squeeze out toxic information from Lili. What a tool he is!

Now onto the good stuff:

"David and Regina look at each other. It is so clear to them and to us, that Paulina made the earth move for Luis and he is still quaking:"

Nifty description of the scene, amiga. Although have to admit, as a woman, my hackles were raised by the easy acceptance of his affair as in "oh sure, intelligent, attractive, shared interests, of course!Of course you fell." Dude, how about that promise to be faithful and protect your loved one? And infidelity hurts the children in a family also. When you marry, out of billions of people on earth, you have promised to do your Absolute Best with this particular person. Was that your "absolute best"????!!!!

Okay Rant over. Infidelity is obviously my "squishy spot".

But my Sweet Spot is like yours--David. He was absolutely adorable this whole episode but especially in the gym. FINE FROM HEAD TO TOE. But I hated that "cool-just for the gym" shirt. Our David is the unfussy type to just throw on an old t-shirt to work out. Not have some Designer Top. Just UGH! That's the sort of dweeb move Arturo would make. Not David. Wardrobe people, wake up!

Jeez. Another rant. Sorry.

Lisardo is certainly good at playing pissy people. And still nice to see Sabine playing a normal wife and mother. Now somebody hit Mireya and Rene with a two x 4 before I lose my mind!

Thanks LILA. Still haven't heard from Anita. Praying she's on her way to wellness and getting the medical treatment and rest that she needs.
 

DULCE

Thanks, JudyB. I don't know why I am so attracted to this show. Perhaps because I recognized so many of the actors. I did watch it first because I thought it was going to be frothy and was not happy to see the shootings at the beginning, but when I recognized the main actors, I knew it had to be quality tv.

I wasn't able to sleep much last night so I hope I see it tonight. I really wish I could find a source for episodes online. TVGlobo requires a subscription and Univisión does not offer it for non cable viewers.

NOSOTROS LOS GUAPOS
Anyone watching this show? If so, are they or arent they? Probably doesnt matter!
 

DULCE

Di, I too am intrigued as to how, not only Paz, but everyone else stays so calm. When Fabiola was kidnapped, Zenaida wasn’t as perturbed as you would expect...calmness must be a requisite in this family.
 

DULCE

Rgv Chick,
On the Brazilian original description, they call the Ramirez and the Mateus families "competing professional vigilantes (justiceiros)". Professional vigilantes,not just an intergenerational conflict between two clans.

In any event, these are obviously a very cold blooded group of people!

Maria da Paz was breaking with tradition by wanting to spend all her time in the kitchen rather than going into the family justiceiro business. There was a scene in the first capitulo where she, as a child, is the only one who cannot shoot out the candle in the backyard and cries.

I guess we'll learn more as the novela goes on. But her name, Peaceful Maria, seems apt. I'm guessing the title A dona do pedaço(Lady of the Slice) might become the name of her cake business,or at least how she's known on the street when she starts out.
 

Woops, that would be "The Slice (or Piece of Cake) Lady"
 

Dulce

Di, muchas gracias. Dang, am I sorry that I missed out on Grandma Dulce! What a great role for a nonagenarian.
 

OT

I have terrible news from Anita's son Andrew. She went to the emergency room Tuesday night by ambulance and passed away at 8 am the next morning. She did not have Covid-19. He is devastated of course. And so are we all. It just touches my heart that feeling as bad as she did even Saturday she slogged through and turned out a lovely, witty MEDICOS RECAP. What a gal. What a spirit. And how she will be missed.
 

Judyb....oh no, I just got here to read the recap and found this awful news. This happened so quickly. Do you have any idea what happened ? It wasn't covid ? I cannot believe that Anita is gone. She emailed me a couple times in the last two years about Outlander and a show from Australia that we were both watching. Has Vivi been told ? I think they met at least once in DC. Anita invited me to the gathering , but I couldn't go. I am shocked.
 

Médicos

Lila, terrific job. Love each and every one of your asides on David. Goodness, his scenes sparkled.

Luis sure is annoying. Loved the "yeah, right, if you say so" look Regina and David were giving him. It was nice seeing these two in the same rhythm.

As for Art. I vote for a time jump. His pain is understandable, but seeing him sadsacking Regina into a relationship is tiresome.
 

I can't believe that Anita has passed away. I met both Anita and Vivi several years ago when Anita planned a DC area get-together for local Caraymates.

Anita was such a warm, witty person. I expected her back any day. This is tough.

My deepest condolences to Andrew and all of Anita's family. May the grace of god be with them.
 

That is terrible news about Anita! I only knew her through a couple of wise and witty telenovela recaps, but in those, as, presumably in life, she was wonderful! My condolences to her friends and family.
 

That’s awful! I’m very sorry about Anita
 

OT

That’s so sad! Rest In Peace, Anita.


MÉDICOS

I need to get better at commenting on these recaps but I do read them so thanks Lila!

I would certainly not like being around men like Rene and Victor. They are just...ugh. I’m trying to find the words but can’t lol I hope Mauricio wakes up though. The whole thing with Victor threatening to sue is laughable to me.

Although it’s likely not going to happen, it’d be interesting if Regina ended up with Arturo. I’m just saying that because I’m not really a fan of Daniel Arenas lol it’s a bummer though what Arturo is going through in the aftermath of Cecelia’s suicide.


 

MEDICOS


Hey, UnOp! Thanks for the tip about Amorcito! Yah, I can see Daniel Arenas in a comedy. Although it wasn't supposed to be, I sure laughed at him as Octavio in Corazon Indomable --is that the name of it? I'll have to try to check it out! Thanks!

David at the gym! WHOOO HOOOO!

I see you other guys...be right back!
 

O/T

SUSANLYNN...I've written to Vivi and to Emilia and Mike. I think they probably met Anita as well. My heart is just down to my shoes right now. Just so very sad. And so touched that feeling as awful as she did, she still wanted to help LILA out. And did so! Beautifully. And with wit. And class. What a lady.
 

MEDICOS


Gracias, SpanProf! I had forgotten how mad Uni made me hacking up novelas! Grrrrr!


Judy! Judy! JudyB! Gracias, Amiga!

oily little Marco squeeze out toxic information from Lili. What a tool he is! Ah! Nice imagery! Yah, I thought he was going to get religion and heal scarred faces! WRONG!!

Yah, Luis is toast, man: he did it once, I think to goober will fall again!

JudyB, I'm glad to hear some wardrobe observations. Yours truly somehow doesn't notice such things usually. Like someone mentioned Victoria, an Attorney on the job, wearing a cocktail dress. I was like, uh, it was a pretty shade of blue!? Your kind of observation add richness to our discussion!

Judy, thank you for the bit about Anita. I pray someone reads this that has personal contact with her. Sure hope she's OK.


OMG! JudyB! I just read your 3:50 p.m post. I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS. I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS. I am so sorry. So very sorry. I feel so badly! I don't know what to say. Was going through responding to posts.

Peeps. Thank you all for your comments on Medico. Thank you. I'll see you later.


 

O/T

I am so sad about Anita. She and I went to the opera together a few times when she came to New York. We had very similar taste in that. I still can't quite believe this.
 

MEDICOS

Thank you, Niecie

Gracias, TF

kinda in shock
 

ANITA

RGV CHICK has put up a tribute page with Anita's picture. But we are all in shock and just so very very sad. She was a great friend to anybody who was open to it. Energetic, bright, generous, kind, opinionated! and a fellow fangirl of Andrew Cuomo and his press conferences. One of a kind. And very precious.
 

Dulce,

I watched the novela, intermittently, on Globo. It is, IMO, a dark novela which wouldn't be unexpected except that it seems to have been sold, at least initially, as a light-hearted poor girl makes good novela.


 

DULCE AMBICIÓN
Friday 4 September 2020-09-04
Part I

Tonight starts with a very quick recap of how Maria da Paz lost her maid job because she’s pregnant and resolves to sell cakes, while back at the ranch her grandma kills a lot of people and dies herself.

No violence whatsoever and a little cake porn tonight. But this episode bounces around pretty fast between locations, so hold on tight! If you need help with the cast of characters, scroll down at this link for a convenient family tree.

https://gshow.globo.com/novelas/a-dona-do-pedaco/noticia/conheca-as-familias-ramirez-e-matheus-rivais-em-a-dona-do-pedaco.ghtml

Maria da Paz is screaming at Marlene’s house, I’m going to Espírito Santo. My sister is dead, My grandma is dead. It’s vengeance by the Mateos! I must find my nieces.
Marlene says, No, think of your baby who will have the blood of both families. You NEED to sell cakes!

Maria da Paz immediately calms down and puts on her apron. I’ll sell cakes and then find my nieces.

In Vitória, Amadeu is in a wheelchair listening to his mom Evelina tell him how Gma Dulce killed everyone. Amadeu replies, But what about Maria da Paz? What about the Little girls? I studied to be a lawyer. I’m not continuing this war.

Now we’re at the police station where Ademir is inquiring about his daughter Zenaida. “Is this her,” a policeman asks, showing him a photo of dead Zenaida on the beach. Yes. “We don’t know about any little girls. You want the body?”

Next we’re at Dona Gladys house. Régis is perpetually in tennis whites! Five rich people are going on about maids getting too many benefits. “It’s a type of socialism!” Régis says nobody cares what I think so I’m out of here.

On the street, the VW hatchback is loaded with cakes. Maria da Paz says, Let’s go! She’s hawking, “Cake! Cake! Who wants cake! Pastel de paz! Peace cakes!” Spying a sad teen, she gets him a piece of banana cake and then doubles back to give him a brigadeiro. “Thank you, thank you,” he says.

Samba music is playing over the credits. “People can’t stop smiling. Why the face? You’re time will come!”

Maria da Paz is thrilled with her first day’s success. “Let’s come back tomorrow and sell some more!!” Eusebio is stuffing his face with a chocolate slice as Maria da Paz literally jumps for joy.

Eusebio turns out to be a demon behind the wheel because he fashions himself a Formula One driver, but he crashes the hatchback into a lamppost. Fortunately, Maria da Paz’s cakes make everyone so happy that even the car owner doesn’t really care. In fact, he says, “I’m going to want another piece.”

Marlene and Maria bring a yellow cake to the neighbor’s house with the kids and the neighbor Chico says he knows just what to do so Maria can continue her cake business. “Trust me! Just make the cakes and I’ll take care of the rest.”

The physical therapist is treating Amadeu. She asks what happened to his girlfriend. “I so much want to know what happened to her,” he sobs. Here, the PT says, have another pill.


 

DULCE
Part II

Maria da Paz gets some milk in the middle of the night and wonders where Amadeu is. “We’re going to have a child, my darling.”

In Rio Vermelho, Nilda lights a candle for her daughter Zenaida. Her husband Ademir wants to end the war between the families, her other children want to kill Amadeu! We need vengeance! Nilda says, You’re right and I know how to do it.

So… what’s the big idea to transport the cakes? It’s a rusty old push cart with an old fashioned horn tied to it. Maria da Paz is delighted.

Next we see her rolling up a cuted up cart in front of a stadium, then she’s on a pedestrian overpass with her cakes.

Intercut with Amadeu doing PT

Now she’s in front of a cathedral. Chocolate!

The PT is really dedicated to Amadeu. Careful, careful!

Maria is getting rounder and the crowds are getting bigger around the cake cart. Chocolate, pineapple, one with chocolate icing with strawberries on top. They don’t look that great but I kind of think there’s something “special” in them because everyone is crazy about them.

Suddenly we’re in a convent in Espírito Santo. While a group of little girls recite prayers, two nuns remark how no one has come to claim one of them.

Gladys´ rich family is having an afternoon get together. Régis is in white pants but a black long sleeve top. It turns out it’s little girl Vivi Guedes’ birthday party. Beatriz is talking to the maybe four year old about the presents and Vivi calls her Ma. Beatriz is ecstatic. It’s the first time she has called her Mama and Ótavio is your father!

At the convent, little girl Fabiana tells a nun that she’s praying for her sister and misses her. The nun wants her to take off her strange amulet but Fabiana gets mad. “My grandma gave it to me and my sister has the same one!”

So… Virgínia has been adopted by the rich family in São Paulo and Fabiana is in a convent in Espírito Santo.

Nilda and Evelina are having a chat at a café. It’s pretty tense as they both recently lost their kids to the war between their families. Evelina says, So Maria da Paz is still alive and in São Paulo? And Nilda says, So Amadeu is still alive and in Vitória? Let’s tell them both that the other is dead!!!

Amadeu is making progress walking on crutches with his PT in a field. Evelina drives up and tells him she just found out Maria da Paz is dead. He falls apart.

Maria´s cakes are getting fancier. The client is enchanted with the birthday cake she made. Maria helps her take the cake home and confides she’s going to have a girl.

Oops, Marlene let the cake burn, but Maria da Paz says, Oh, that’s ok. Marlene says, By the way, your mom called and she wants you to call right back. Maria calls and her mom says, Amadeu is dead and they buried him in Vitória. Maria goes into shock. She walks away from the phone and her water breaks! “La fuente se reventó!”

Maria cries, Just let me die but save my daughter. Marlene runs out ostensibly to get help.

No astounding photography this time but, except for a glimpse of Zenaida´s morgue shot, no blood, no violence, and the promise of some better cake porn and hopefully a healthy baby to come! Have a nice holiday weekend and see you next week!
Di
 

MÉDICOS #38, 9-4-20


Greetings, everyone. I am not going to presume to be able to pay a fitting tribute to our dear friend, Anita. I had the pleasure of “meeting” her through this blog when we were on the team that recapped Quiero Amarte in 2015. I just looked at my email this morning, and found one from her where I had been hospitalized and she was so supportive and encouraged me to NOT think about the blog but to take care of myself; she and other friends would cover my days. This is the same heart with which Anita offered and complied beyond all expectation, with her promise to cover the double episode of Friday, August 28. Her recap, posted August 29, is a six page powerhouse of detail, wit, humor and character analysis. Like her cast list, this recap serves as a valuable reference for anyone hoping to understand this story. Watching, writing about and discussing novelas is a hobby, a pastime, and for some, a passion to which they bring their time, their knowledge, their heart and soul. That is what Anita brought: her whole self, to the very end. I know that what I shared of her life on this blog was a only a small facet of her real, full life but that facet is brilliant and I will always remember her on this blog and in my life. Rest in Paradise, Dear, Beloved Amiga! Anita!



Peeps, let’s start with the bad and ugly and try to end with love, or the promise thereof. I will try to do this through a thematic review. As always, correct, add, or amplify a plot point, character, interaction, etc. that you liked or thought important.


The Plot to overthrow Gonzalo
Rene is feeling his Cheerios: He brags to Constanza that he now has Montesino’s ear and confidence. Constanza is glad Rene is trying to emerge from his mediocrity. Constanza says Rene is not as smart as Gonzalo, but he can try to get closer to patients and thus compete with Gonzalo on the clinical domain to match the administrative dominance he’s establishing. Rene gives it some thought.


Although he doesn’t know it, Victor is a part of this attempted coup against Gonzalo. Victor remains a rigid rectum determined to sue the drawers off of the Instituto as he mockingly insults Luz’s attempts to do a socioeconomic study to determine how much he can cover of his hospital bill. I’m not sure why someone didn’t warn Luz of this patient’s hostility, but she certainly gets the message and leaves Victor’s room, her dignity intact. This suit was provoked by deliberate withholding of medical attention and pain relief during a likewise provoked failure of the HVAC system! All planned by Miryea and Rene who hope to have Gonzalo, Regina and the Instituto sued for negligence and malpractice. The malpractice aspect of the plot is Miryea’s slander. As she roughly treated Victor’s wound she said he was under prescribed analgesics and the pain is a side effect of the procedure having been done outside the operating room for who knows why? It’s an affair of the Doctors! She’s seen it over and over: them making mistakes until they have a law suit on top of them, and then they realize their errors!
 

MÉDICOS #38, 9-4-20


Rene receives an unexpected windfall from his pet rat, Marco, who reports that the source of the missing medical supplies is Diego Martinez! Rene sees an opportunity to fold his and Miryea’s theft and reselling of Instituto supplies in to whatever Diego is accused of! Good work, rat, don’t worry about having your check ever garnished again! Rene shares that the Instituto is going to be sued for malpractice. With the half shred of decency Marco retains, he tries to argue that the surgery had to be done immediately where the patient was to save his life! Marco also doesn’t want to get in trouble with the Attendings. Rene exerts his power of Marco and tells him to sit down and recite the words he’d instructed him to repeat at the appropriate time: the patient’s life was put in danger! Pure malpractice! Marco seems to be the tiniest bit troubled. Rene dismisses Marco and instructs him to keep an eye on Regina and report any slip ups to him! Unbeknownst to either the snake or the rat, Diego, tortured by his conscience, confesses to Regina that he stole the missing supplies and hopes for mercy: he promises to repay every centavo! Regina is sorry, but what he did is a crime and out of her hands: she will have to report this to Dr. Gonzalo Olmedo! All these will converge and probably lead to a big legal blow out with Vega and Associates wielding their righteous sword and shield to defend our friends against these eeevil lies! At least, that’s my hope!


Troubled Families
Sandra and Victor’s troubled family intersects with possible trouble in Luis’ too happy family. Mauricio, Sandra and Victor’s son, makes steady recovery under the excellent care of the Instituto team. He is able to have his sedation lowered; Regina assesses that he is breathing on his own above the support of the ventilator and he is extubated by Daniel under the supervision of (Anesthesiologist) Dr. Rafa Calderon! Mauricio awakens and greets his tearfully joyous Mother and thanks Regina, Rafa and Daniel for their efforts to save his life! There are several scenes where Sandra expresses her gratitude to the Instituto staff and in a scene near the end, asks Mauricio’s private Pediatrician, Paulina, to talk to Victor to correct his negative perceptions about their care at the Instituto. Paulina promises she will. Paulina and Luis, seemingly always together, are attentive to Mauricio’s progress.


Ah, Paulina. Feel free to expand if you wish, Peeps, but from where I sit, Paulina is a dominatrix and Luis is under her spell which she casts in provocative undertones right in the hospital any chance she can do so. For instance, an innocent question about what each has been doing in the intervening years; she describes some of the medical concerns that she has dealt with in her pediatric practice as ways she has found “to stay busy so as to not think about him.” Earlier in the day, Luis asked her not to call his home again; he didn’t want problems with his family. Oh, she understands but deep in her heart, she hopes they could have a chance together. Luis, whose heart is on his sleeves and in his eyes, and his voice and his lab coat virtually quakes under her emotional manipulation. [ It is quite pitiful and, frankly embarrassing, to behold. One feels as if one is witnessing something too intimate for public display.] He manages to stammer that a “them” will never happen; they will maintain their emotional distance! Well, she hopes she can, but it’s going to be hard to achieve. [Yah.]

 

MÉDICOS #38, 9-4-20


Our most surprising troubled family is that of Dr. Gonzalo Olmedo. The first page of this next chapter in his life is like running your hand against the grain of a long lock of hair: it should be soft, but it’s a sensory assault, so I’ll be brief. The storied Aurora shows up at the Instituto to a shocked Gonzalo! She is cold and bristly and waits twenty seconds to throw up in his face how much she still resents him for spending all his time at this maldito Instituto! Her husband, Javier, has everything under control and she neither needs nor wants his help but she DOES want him NEVER to look for HER son again! Gonzalo pleads with her and blows up at one point, but contains himself and tells her, just before she leaves, that his offer of help still remains. This is the final scene.



Daniel’s Parents are appropriately proud of his central participation in a complicated neurological surgery! Daniel fills his Parents in as they wolf down supper. Paco gives Daniel the morning off from going with him to the market to shop for supplies for the sandwich shop. Paco talks to one of the vendors who knows this dude who can loan Paco some money. RUH ROH! Trouble ahead!



A Promise of Love?
Tania and Rafa talk, he tells her about the difficult surgery he was in, and how well Daniel did. Rafa tells Tania what an excellent Doctor Daniel is, and a wonderful person with a big heart. Tania, at Rafa’s suggestion, also congratulates Daniel on his part in Mauricio’s surgery! Daniel excitedly tells her about how interesting it was and the high tension of Mauricio’s arrest that they pulled him out of while the complicated procedure continued to a successful end. Tania is so glad to talk to him; she enjoys their chats and she misses him! Daniel’s awed expression after Tania leaves tells us he is still smitten. [I hope Tania is sincere: maybe she just naturally smiles like a vixen.]



Arturo makes inroads into Regina’s heart—he hopes. I was wrong about where they were as they bared their souls about past personal pain. They were at Regina’s apartment. She fixes him a sandwich, they continue to talk. Art feels better and expresses his gratitude for this chance to get some things off his heart. Just before he leaves he says he will sleep at the hospital: it’s too painful to be in his apartment. Regina offers and he accepts to sleep on her sofa. The next morning he has prepared a breakfast of pastries, toast, eggs, juice, coffee and I might have missed sausage and bacon. It’s a veritable I-Hop! Art looks much more refreshed and relieved and apparently his breakfast was good. They drive to the hospital together and share an embrace just in time for David to see. David looks down and away but his eyes are drawn back to the horrific scene. He swallows hard; we can almost hear and feel the solidifying of his resolve as he walks into the Instituto to begin the day’s work. Later in the hospital, an ever cheerful and probing Pamela learns from Art about Cecelia’s suicide and almost breaks down while blaming herself! Art ends up comforting and reassuring her she is NOT responsible before making his exit. [I heard Psychiatry students must also undergo therapy? Don’t know if that’s true but, yah, Pamela needs it!]


 

MÉDICOS #38, 9-4-20 END



Finally, my David and his (seemingly) dashed hope of love. David and Regina are together as they evaluate Mauricio earlier in the day. Regina notes something in David’s demeanor and asks if anything is wrong. No, and he does discuss the Mauricio’s condition and prognosis frankly and without emotion or drama. At one point David moves as Regina approaches Mauricio’s bedside and Regina takes notice of this and looks at him somewhat stunned, but without comment. After Paulina and Luis enter for their assessment, David is the first to leave. Regina looks after him.



Regina takes a break to talk to Cinthia who asks how Art is doing. Regina tells her Art spent the night at her apartment. Regina says Art is going through a very difficult time and couldn’t bear to stay at home right now. Cinthia is surprised and asks Regina if she’s not getting to close to Art. Regina says with a note of exasperation that Art wants a closeness that she cannot respond to; Cinthia thinks Regina’s gesture of kindness might confuse Art. Their conversation is interrupted by Diego, coming to clear his conscious and confess his sin.


The End for now.
 

MEDICOS 38/47

Thanks, Lila. You didn't miss anything and I believe this was a whole episode.

Marco knew that the operation couldn't wait; he was there the whole time and saw everything. Rene gaslit him -- and Victor -- very well; he would have made a good criminal defense attorney for El Ciego.

On the subject of Rene (the snake) Constanza did say that Gonzalo was a better doctor than he was. She must know on some level that Rene is a slimeball.

The traditional misunderstandings and misinterpretations just keep on coming.

Paco needs help from someone and sadly, it looks like he will end up borrowing from a loan shark. This is not good.

No way in hell should Victor be able to win a malpractice suit. I have to wonder if this story will have Rene and/or Mireya sabotaging the ER team's work.
 

"VENCER EL MIEDO":

UA: It seems to me that Paulina Goto's character likes being with bad boys especially one of whom, who is conniving with a corrupt dirty cop.
 

I don't see a happy ending in "DULCE AMBICION".
 

Medicos. Incredibly complete and helpful recap, Lila! "rigid rectum": Love it! You do have a way with colorful insults. And Aurora would rather die--literally--than have Gonzalo save her life? Incredible! Obviously, the woman has no survival instinct at all. And on a final note: When did Regina get her apartment decorated? It actually looks nice.
 

DULCE

Steve Boudreaux, Are you watching or just reading the summary? Because Maria da Paz is a really positive person despite all her traumas, and people really like those cakes. The little girls are safe and well cared for, Amadeu can walk, and most of Rio Vermelho is already dead!

The Brazilian company that makes box cake mixes (like Duncan Hines) is now selling A Dona do Pedaço line.

https://www.abcdacomunicacao.com.br/dona-benta-lanca-linha-de-mistura-para-bolos-a-dona-do-pedaco-com-o-apoio-de-comunicacao-da-execution/

So far Maria's cakes just look like box mixes but I guess people do have a soft spot for something they may have made as a kid or eaten at a family picnic. And she gives out HUGE pieces.

But except for Maria and her ragtag Sao Paulo neighbors, everyone else is very grim. Much as I miss the beautiful photography of the missions and ranches of Rio Grande do Sul, I don't want to see Rio Vermelho again!
 

Medicos

Lila, thank you for an excellent and detailed recap of all the swirling drama.

Reg is making a big mistake taking Art into her home. I realize that she is a kindhearted person , but Art is going to misinterpret her kindness and try to convince Reg to start a Romance.

Is it just me or are Reg's scrubs getting more and more fitted ? Usually scrubs are pretty loose and do th looking .

Lisardo ( Victor) seems be perpetually cast as a villain . He always looks furious and groWling .

Looks like Constanza is the mastermind behind Renee's evil plans.

Lots of people to dislike in this show.
 

MEDICOS

Hi, Urban! You are so welcome! I can't wait for Vega and Associates to blow these crooks out of the water. I do not look forward to the inept and uncaring treatment, or even just interactions Rene would make with patients, like he had with Cinthia's patient and for which she called him out! I can't see Gonzalo allowing Rene to have any clinical contacts. During Gonzalo's dressing down of him on Thursday, he referred to Rene as a "Doctor" who spent his days on the telephone! If I didn't have to, I wouldn't watch their scenes either! Scum of the earth!


Howdy, SpanProf! y Gracias! Span, Aurora was a horror! My gosh! She couldn't have become that much of a be-yatch because her husband was working hard to support her and their son and saving lives to boot! "Oh, what an awful man, I hate the shadow you cast on the ground!" I'm sorry, let the ho' die! BAM!!


Yah, I guess we missed Regina ordering from Wayfair! That darned Art doesn't miss a beat. Is Cecelia even buried yet and he continues after Regina! Thanks, Span!


 

MEDICOS

LILA, I loved your introductory tribute to Anita and I hope you will copy the body of the text and put it over on the main page Tribute line since her children will be reading those comments at some point.

And you were your usual sassy self in recounting the ups, downs and absolute horrors of this Medicos episode. Can I say how much I HATE the mid-point of a novela when absolutely everything is going wrong and we are writhing in angst and worry, all the while muttering "it's just a story, just a story!" I love the Patio but I hate what I go through trying to maintain some grasp of Spanish. (still, sure beats those Teach Yourself Español books)

Like SpanProf, got a kick out of "rigid rectum". A much more colorful way to say "tight ass" I must say.

and this:

"with the half shred of decency Marco retains". I knew he was a snob but the relish with which he offered Diego to the dogs was so disturbing. We know part of the reason he hates the guy is because he deems him low class and "naco". Just ugh.

And your description of the uncomfortable intimacy of the Luis/Paulina scenes was so apt. She's definitely enjoying nibbling away at his defenses again. And he certainly looked shaky on his feet. Another big Ugh for me.

Also, I think you've nailed our Tania...
[I hope Tania is sincere: maybe she just naturally smiles like a vixen.]

Yep, she's a vixen for sure. That's just part of the total package. Some people seem to be natural flirts and go through life wondering why they have such trouble with men. That's our Tania.

"Arturo making inroads into Regina's heart--he hopes."

Yes. He's flipped, instantaneously, from grief and guilt into amorous pursuit. Quite a fast turn on the Romance Raceway, I must say. Do. Not. Like. Arturo. Although he looked quite fine in that tight black sweater and slacks. Hey, I'm not blind. Just old. And biased for my David.

"David looks down and away but his eyes are drawn back to the horrific scene. He swallows hard; we can almost hear and feel the solidifying of his resolve as he walks into the Instituto to begin the day's work."

A perfect description of that very sad scene and misunderstanding, LILA. I guess our David has a little more suffering to do. And Regina also.

By the way, speaking of David, your "clearing the plumbing" quip is over on the sidebar of the main page. One of the best ever, amiga! You do have a way with words.

Thank you for managing to write such an entertaining and complete recap, albeit with such a heavy heart. We need to share our sorrow here. But also our sense of irony and humor. Without that, how could we go on sometimes? Thanks Ms. LILA. As always, a fangirl.
 

MEDICOS


Hola y muchisimas gracias, Susanlynn! Girl, Regina is stepping in it. I'm afraid Art is not going to let her go back to the friend zone! He sees her now as the rescuer he tried to be with hims Mom and Cecelia. Not that Regina is depressed, no, but HE is and may have been since childhood. I think if she tries to withdraw from this web he's wrapping her in, he's going to become unhinged!


Uh, yah, Regina's scrub definitely accentuate the hour glass. I may not have noticed her turtleneck, but I did notice her figure eight figure in the scrubs!

Hey, Susanlynn! I'm glad you said this: I totally missed it! Pay attention to this, everybody:

Looks like Constanza is the mastermind behind Renee's evil plans.

GRACIAS, Susanlynn! We've got to watch her! Hey, where was Puff?

Back in a minute, y'all!



 

MEDICOS

Lila, a thoughtful and powerfully written recap.

As we grieve and try and come to terms with Anita’s passing, you have given us a wonderful respite. We are truly grateful.

Thank you for the nuggets that left me smiling “Victor remains a rigid rectum” and “It’s a veritable I-Hop!” – so needed on this very sad day.

“Marco seems to be the tiniest bit troubled” was evident yet, I do not believe he possesses the moral strength to resist and rebuke Rene’s sinister plans.

“Luis, whose heart is on his sleeves and in his eyes, and his voice and his lab coat virtually quakes under her emotional manipulation. [ It is quite pitiful and, frankly embarrassing, to behold. One feels as if one is witnessing something too intimate for public display.]”. Perfectly descriptive.

“the first page of this next chapter in his life is like running your hand against the grain of a long lock of hair: it should be soft, but it’s a sensory assault” was excellent.

Aurora was beyond cold and bitter. She has obviously nurtured her anger to the point it has turned to hatred. She remarried but definitely not moved on and worse, has planted and nourished her seeds of hatred in her son. She foolishly rebukes and rejects Gonzalo. I see no image of a person that Gonzalo ever would have fallen in love with. Hatred ravages.

“Daniel’s awed expression after Tania leaves tells us he is still smitten. [I hope Tania is sincere: maybe she just naturally smiles like a vixen.]”. Daniel is begging for more abuse and rejection apparently.

Can Diego be saved? I guess it’s up to Gonzalo. At least Diego confessed before rat Rene beat him to the punch.

David is still misinterpreting the situation between Regina and Art. Time for Regina to continue to be supportive but step back before Art misinterprets her intentions as well.

So appreciative of this wonderful community and to you Lila for bringing sun to this dark day.

Diana
 

MEDICOS


JudyB!!! Gracias, Amiga! Judy, this piece is so a downer right now, which none of us needs. You nailed it:


Can I say how much I HATE the mid-point of a novela when absolutely everything is going wrong and we are writhing in angst and worry, all the while muttering "it's just a story, just a story!"


You named so many of the maddening and prickly situations and Art is the one getting the hugs! UGH! Yes. He's flipped, instantaneously, from grief and guilt into amorous pursuit. Yes, darnit!


I needed this for a belly laugh and an AMEN!

Do. Not. Like. Arturo. Although he looked quite fine in that tight black sweater and slacks. Hey, I'm not blind. Just old. And biased for my David.


Wait! What?! I made the sidebar! HOLY QUACAMOLE!! I wanna thank Mom, and Dad....no, just kidding! What an honor! WOW! This makes up for this head-banging against a wall week of Medicos! Dang!


JudyB, I appreciate you, I appreciate everybody on our Patio and I invite more folk to come out from the yard and sit up here on the Patio; bring your favorite beverage or snack, heck, you can even flip through your phone; just come on up and set a spell! We can create our own little world here, again, social distancing and masking NOT required!

 

MEDICOS


I see and thank you, Diana! I'll be back in a minute!
 

MEDICOS


Gracias, de verdad, Diana! I'm glad you find some respite in these lines. The Patio feels different but if we hang in here and share and care about each other, it honors those who have passed through here with and before us; we honor ourselves.

Ah. Aurora was beyond bitter, you are right. Gonzalo is so kind and generous, I totally agree with you: I see no image of a person that Gonzalo ever would have fallen in love with. Hatred ravages.

And you are right about Diego. It IS good he confessed and I can't wait to see his reaction when he learns how much he is charged with. I know Vego and Team have to be involved. Untangling Regina from Sergio was quick work; THIS is the BIG ONE!

Diana, thank you.
 

O/T

JudyB This is HILARIOUS! What show was this?

“"GET OUT!" shrieks Roberta, and that pretty much wraps up the fun part of the evening." -- JudyB


So appreciate my little bit of fame on the revolving and Famous Caray side bar! YAAAAY!!
 

Lila, I must tell you that you are a ray of light. As if times weren't dark enough, Anita's unexpected passing was shocking and so sad, but you did exactly what Anita would have done . You gave us a snappy recap to read and comment on . Thank you thank you thank you . I appreciate every wonderful word you shared with us. At times like these , it is evident that caray is so much more than just a place to discuss telenovelas. It is a community of people who laugh and cry together as they get to know each other through only the thoughts and words they exchange. So glad you returned , Lila.
 

O/T

Ditto what Susanlynn said.

And LILA, that Roberta quote was from a recent afternoon telenovela titled Me Declaro Culpable. Daniela Castro, who's so good at doing BSCrazy, played Roberta...to the hilt.

It also had Juan Soler as her long-suffering husband, and interestingly, it was ANITA who talked us into watching and recapping it. She was a big fan of Juan Soler who hails from her neck of the woods in South America. Not the same country, but close by. And besides, he's just flat out handsome. (Although not my type. I prefer them a little more rough around the edges. Juan looks like he was born in a three-piece suit and even sleeps in one. IMO.)

The show, by the way, turned out to be a real dog. But we forgave ANITA and kvetched, carped and snarked away together on it 'till the very end. Blue Lass was one of the recappers and she was crazy hilarious every time. A truly unique sense of humor. And I think she is the one who decides what will go on the sidebar, after receiving "nominations" from various people or scanning the recaps herself.
 

OT..yes, Cupable was where the euphemism " moving the sofa" came from. Did Blue Lass come up with that one , Judyb?
 

O/T

Y'know I don't remember, SUSANLYNN. But YOU were the one who made it shine by saying "Oh, is that what the kids are calling it nowadays." That's when it really took off.
 

OT..judyb...and our beloved Franquilo. That Roberta was a firecracker or rather a firestarter...and mad as a hatter. Crazy Rob and Daddy Dearest locked forever in a mad dance of hatred and vengeance. That was quite a show.
 

O/T

Oh, Susanlynn, my gosh, thank you and you bless me with your words! I am glad I returned, too, and I want to keep hanging with you guys though sometimes you may get bullet points. I am so happy I was already a homebody and fortunate to have work I can do from home. I try very hard not to do anything even resembling complaining about my life because I know I'm blessed. Here at Caray, there IS a community of people I can laugh and cry with and FUSS, AND RAGE about a stoopid galan or story line that's not going the way I want!! Yah, it's therapeutic. I didn't know about Carlos until this unexpected blow. So, this is real life here, but it's a safe haven. Thank YOU, dear Susanlynn!


JudyB! Thanks for the info! I haven't done a daytime novela in ages. Juan Soler! Wow, I haven't seen him since CME!

Although not my type. I prefer them a little more rough around the edges. Juan looks like he was born in a three-piece suit and even sleeps in one. IMO

OMG! Now, THAT's sidebar-worthy!

Blue Lass! I remember her and I see other folk I remember in Anita's tribute! Oh! Yes, "moving the sofa!" I saw that in comments this week. That's rich! Oh, guys. Thank you all. Let's keep each other lifted up, that's what Anita would do for us!

 

Medicos



Well Regina did tell David that she had stuff at her house now lol. When they were in the pool un puerto Vallarta David said “maybe I could come to your house, even though last time it didn’t go so well.” That’s when Regina grabbed his hand and said “I can finally invite you for that tequila, I have things now.” But it was Art that made it over to her house first, booo!

I found this odd, and I don’t know if was acknowledged and I just missed it. When Regina made Art the sandwich, she said she would offer him something more but it’s the only thing she had in her fridge. The next morning Art has prepared a banquet for breakfast.. but didn’t Regina say she didn’t have anything at her house?

Judy - I agree with you about this being the mid-point of the TN where everything goes wrong, but what makes this TN different is that things never went right in the first place!! Haha

-Unsolicited Opinions
(Having issues posting)
 

O/T

“Although it wasn't supposed to be, I sure laughed at him as Octavio in Corazon Indomable”

Hahahaha!! I’ve actually read all the recaps (and comments) for corazón indomable, so suuper belated thank you for recapping Lila!! I didn’t watch it when it first aired, I watched it years later and that’s when I read the recaps. The recaps were waaaay better than the TN! Lol and yes, I also laughed and laughed reading the recaps. To this day, when I see photos/videos of Daniel Arenas from Corazón indomable, I think of him as “Oblivio” because that’s what you guys called him haha

-Unsolicited Opinions
 

DULCE

[Editor: please remove if you consider this to be a spoiler]

Steve: the ending is, well, mixed, very unusual.
 

MEDICOS

UNSOLICITED...Thanks for filling us in on when Regina told David she finally had "stuff" in her apartment.

I still liked LILA'S quip that she must have called Wayfair.

And ditto on how in the world did Arturo prepare that bounteous breakfast if Regina had nothing in her refrigerator? Did he pop out to the nearest store? And, for that matter, how did he appear freshly shaven, bright and sparkly, unwrinkled and unmussed after spending the night on her couch.

And oh well, who cares? We're here for the eye candy and the Spanish.
 

DULCE

DI, I watched Friday's episode. Obviously things are still pretty grim, but I enjoyed the interspersed scenes of Amadeo struggling and then succeeding to regain his mobility; and Maria de la Paz struggling and then succeeding at building a business.

I've been fascinated by Amadeo's mother since the beginning. Such a strong face! (As is the sculpted visage of Maria de la Paz) And the Peace Pact negotiated by the two mothers, however cruel, was their way of trying to stop any further bloodshed.

I'm enjoying seeing the many faces of Brazil in the background players, as well as the music. And I have to admit that the actor portraying the playboy son of the rich family is devastatingly handsome.

I will certainly check into this one on the weekends and try and keep up with this story thanks to your summaries.
 

MEDICOS


Buenos dias a todos! Hey, UnOP and JudyB! You know, that miracle breakfast is what makes group participation on the Patio so fun and vital: I didn't even think about that! If she didn't have anything in her house AND to explain why Art wasn't scruffy, maybe he tooled back over to his crib, got spiffed up and then stopped by I-Hop on the way back!"

ITA UnOp! about things not going right from the beginning. Last time I was on the board I fussed indignantly about how "they" use the alpha couple as a carrot and have us barking, running and panting for 100 episodes of stoopid misunderstandings and no me toques just for a measly kiss in the last episode! Looks like we're on that road again! GRRRR!

Ok...y'all don't have to accept that imagery for yourselves! Jeez, it's Sunday morning! I need to calm down!



 

OT....yes, I remember that our nickname for Daniel in that show was " Obilivio because he was so dim. . The recaps were funny and cheeky. I think Carlos used to do a lot of screencaps for that show.
 

Dulce

I have avoided this show because every time I tuned into it, it seemed pretty violent and odd. If the violence has calmed down, I might give it a peek.
 

Dulce

It’s surprising that Amadeo’s mother didn’t shoot Maria de la paz’ mother in the scene where they get together. Maria’s family is all about making pacts and not keeping their word. Especially the grandma.

Maria’s family is so messed up. Apart from not keeping their word, they’re very coldblooded. Grandma shooting the fiancé wasn’t about Maria’s future happiness. Grandma tried killing him for her own pride. Zenaida loses her husband and didn’t care that Maria would lose hers at the altar- didn’t care about the trauma that would unfold. When Fabiana goes missing, Zenaida got over it very quickly. She runs away to the bus stop without an ounce of guilt that she’s leaving that daughter behind somewhere. Then you have Maria’s mother lying about Amadeo’s death, knowing that she’s pregnant. Children are worthless to this family.
 

MEDICOS

You all have truly brightened my morning. This patio is really rockin' and it's a joy to come here.

Lila, I also ditto Susanlynn that you are such a ray of light, Lila. I am in awe of your wit and writing style...just what the doctor ordered!

I agree with everyone about the "rigid rectum"...and everything else that has been said about Friday's episode. Art is really making my stomach turn and watching Regina become tangled in his web of self-pity and manipulation is like hearing nails scratch a chalkboard. UGHHH!
 

DULCE

Di, thank you so much for the excellent recap. With so much going on, I get distracted and miss some parts, but I can rely on you to fill in the gaps.

JudyB, you missed the devastatingly handsome playboy in the shower!! Ay! Ay! Ay! I'm hoping he'll get stinky again...and again, and again LOL

Anon 10:09, "Apart from not keeping their word, they’re very coldblooded." Yes, they are! But it seems that Dulce and Amadeo are the ones who will be changing the destinies of these families. With the baking of so many cakes, some of that warmth HAS to rub off on the families.

Susanlynn, yes, the violence is calming down and the actual story is taking off quite well.

 

DULCE

Well, clearly I'm going to have to find the time to go back and watch previously recorded videos this weekend, RGV CHICK. Thanks for the tip, partner. But it's all about the Spanish, y'know.
 

DULCE

Oh, yes, JudyB, it's all about the Spanish..the Spanish abs, the Spanish rectums, the Spanish triceps and biceps...the list is endless :-D

MEDICOS

Lila, just thought you might want to know, it was Anita who nominated your quip for the sidebar.

For those who have recently joined/returned, nominations for quips for the sidebar can be sent to Blue Lass at fishdontsleep@gmail.com.
 

MEDICOS


Rgv Chick! Mil gracias! Yes, we need some light! I came here fleeing from my "news" habit! If I must imbibe screen, let me sharpen my Spanish language skills and hang out with really cool, smart and warm people! Soy feliz, muy feliz!


Oh, Rgv, really! Anita nominated me for the sidebar! That just makes me want to cry! Please, JudyB, make sure her family receives the link to the tribute page or whatever form is best. I am so glad I came back when I did...none of us know what the future holds! Dear, sweet Anita!


DULCE

Got a backlog of work but I'm trying to catch up on all 5 episodes this weekend. I can't wait to read the recaps. I so enjoyed the two Brazilian novelas I watched, this one so far is just as rich and the others also had an international sound track. They were just delicious! There was drama, and death, and villians but lots of unbridled passion! Thank you Di! hope to join the conversation soon!


 

O/T

I don't know how to send links, LILA, but I let her son Andrew know about the Tribute Page and that he and his sister would want to read the loving comments. I trust since he is using his mom's email accounts and such that he can find our page. I certainly hope so. The comments people are making are so loving and dear.
 

O/T

Thank you, JudyB!
 

Médicos

Thanks, Lila. What a treat. We are so fortunate to have you bringing it.

I like Regina, but she does know how to keep the hospital gossip going. First, she shacks up (innocently of course) with Gonzalo, now she's got Art spending the night (innocently of course) and those two are too dumb to at least come to work separately so no one gets the wrong idea.

Luis is getting on my last nerve. He acts like staying true to his wife is his "duty." She deserves better than that.
 

DULCE

Thank you Lila, RVG Chick, Anonymous, JudyB, susanlynn, Steve Boudreau, for reading my recap of Dulce. It is not easy but I am going to try to keep up! This novela is definitely complicated!
 

Dulce

Thanks, Di. With your recaps, I'm starting to get the hang of this story. I love old-fashion pound cake. Maria is a downhome baker who will give those fancy bakeries a run for their money. Touching when Fabiana refused to give up her family locket to the nun. You go, little girl. I don't see how the nurse working with Amadeo cannot help but fall in love with him.
 

DULCE
Thanks, Niecie in MD! Maria is very generous with her slices and she really gets and gives comfort with those homemade cakes. She must not eat them, however, because she sure is keeping her figure!
 

"VENCER EL MIEDO":

Di: Marcela must love dating bad boys since it's quite obvious Rommel & the dirty corrupt cop have been conniving the entire time.