Monthly Archives: September 2017

September 6, 2017 – Ava Confronts Griff, a Souffle Saves Three Cooks & Dog Thoughts

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

 

General Hospital

Lulu places an order at Kelly’s. She runs into Valerie, and tells her she’s planning Rocco’s birthday party. It’s just going to be family.

Michael arrives home. Carly asks if he went by the hospital, and he says he just missed her. He sat with Sam, but she didn’t tell him much, and he didn’t see Jason. Carly tells Michael that he’s in a coma, and they don’t think he’ll regain consciousness.

Sonny prays in the chapel. Dante comes in, and says he has news. Sonny asks if it’s about Jason, but Dante says it’s about him.

Kristina and Molly join Sam. Kristina says they’re going to take the kids for some distractions. An intern brings Sam Jason’s belongings. Sam takes his wedding ring out of the bag, and says today is their anniversary.

Griff didn’t realize Ava was interested in boxing, but she tells him that she’s there because he is.

Sam tells her sisters not to cry or she will. She says Jason will be fine. Molly says of course, and they discuss future anniversaries. Sam thanks them. Kristina leaves, and Sam asks if Molly is okay. She’s concerned about Sam being alone, but Sam says that Jason is with her.

Dante tells Sonny that they’re not pressing charges for the shooting. They’re calling it justifiable homicide. Now that Sonny has had a chance to breathe, he wonders if anything has changed. Where is Sonny going from here?

Lulu tells Valerie that they’ve been avoiding each other for months. Valerie wishes it had worked out differently. Lulu says she practically dragged her into the Spencer clan, and Valerie adds until she slept with Lulu’s husband. Lulu says she almost caused Valerie to be burned to death, so there’s no moral high ground. She says the insanity seems like a lifetime ago. Maybe it’s what she’s going through with Charlotte that made her consider what family means. They should be there for each other even when one of them screws up. (That was a pretty big screw up though.) She asks if they can start over. Maybe they can be the cousins they should have been. Valerie says that would be great. Lulu gives Valerie an invite to Rocco’s party

Griff apologizes to Ava for not being able to talk. He says death is part of the job. Ava says being a priest is more than a job; it’s a vocation, a calling, and he approaches being a doctor the same way. He needs to talk to someone who can listen. He barks at her that he’s fine, and she says, clearly. He thanks her, but says he needs to be alone. She calls him a hypocrite.

Michael asks Carly how Jason was shot. Carly tells him about the meeting of the five families. She says Jason went along with Sonny, and everyone seemed okay and on board. Petro (which Carly pronounces Petrov – is he another Garvey?) came back, and there was a stand-off. Sam walked in on it, and Jason took a bullet for her. She says Sonny killed Petro, but it was clearly self-defense. Physically he’s okay, but he blames himself.

Sonny says that Dante is afraid he’ll retaliate if Jason dies. He says all he knows is that Jason is dying, and all he can do is wait. Dante says they can talk later, but Sonny doesn’t know if he’ll have any answers. Jason is like a brother, and he already almost lost him once.

Sam asks Jason to squeeze her hand. Nothing.

Ava says that Griff tells everyone else to reach out for help, and practically beat down her door. If it wasn’t for him, she’d be downing martinis in the dark, alone at home. Now she has hope – not a lot, but just enough – and sometimes she can face her future. He’s glad he helped, but needs to be alone. She says for what, to wallow? He listened to her, why can’t she listen to him? He says he has nothing to say. It’s a profound sense of loss, and he doesn’t know what to talk about. Ava says empathy is not her strong suit, and wonders how Griff got that way. He says that when he was a boy, things were harsh, and he watched his mom struggle; he had to keep his guard up. He became an altar boy. His priest was a good man, and he felt comfort in God and the church, and began to see beauty in the world. He thought the priesthood would be his life. Ava asks how he became a doctor, and he says he was reading biology as much as theology. He thought his superiors would balk at the idea, but they encouraged him to follow both paths. He discovered he could make a difference. He could ease suffering. Marisol was different. He thought that he could save her, and failed. It brought him back to the harshness, and he should never have let his guard down. Ava says he’s missing the point.

Sonny apologizes for unloading on Dante. He says he prayed so much, he doesn’t know if he can pray anymore. Dante says he’s going to say prayer himself. Sonny leaves to see Jason.

Kristina can’t get Scout to stop crying. Parker comes by. She says she’s an aunt herself, and wants to show her a tip. She rocks the stroller like it’s a jacked up car, and Scout settles down. She asks Kristina about the shooting, and Kristina says it’s her brother-in-law Jason. She’s helping out by taking Scout for the day. Kristina says it was a surprise running into her at The Floating Rib. She’s glad Parker could move on from her divorce, but Parker says she’s not seeing anyone.

Sam says Jason always comes back to her. She knows he can hear her, but can’t answer right now. She tells him how much she and the children love him. They need him. She needs him to fight for her and the kids. She’ll fight with him. She wishes him a happy anniversary.

Ava tells Griff that the world is a harsh place, and life is often lousy. We all face disappointment and loss, and all want things that are out of reach, even when we know better. She takes off her mask, and tells him to look at her. She wants her face back. She wants to look in the mirror and not be reminded of every mistake, crime, sin, and every person she’s ever wronged. She knows it’s vain, but she wants to be beautiful. Griff says she is. She kisses him. He kisses back. Woo-woo.

Griff tells Ava to stop. (Un-woo-woo.) There’s been a misunderstanding. He told her that she’s beautiful, but never wanted to give her that impression. He wanted to help her as a friend. She tells him to shut up. Ha!

Parker tells Kristina that an old friend was showing her around. She hasn’t dated since the divorce. Dating means starting over, but it’s hard to admit the life you wanted wasn’t there. Kristina identifies. Parker says one of the reasons she took the job at PCU was because she wanted to get away from the memories. She’s sorry to burden Kristina after all that happened between them. Kristina says aren’t they past it? If not, it’s time they started. Parker says that she’s sorry she hurt Kristina. Kristina says ditto, and done; let’s just move on. Parker says she’ll follow Kristina’s example. She says Kristina found someone she cares about, and she hopes they value her. Valerie comes out of Kelly’s.

Michael asks why Sonny would blame himself. Carly says he knew it would be hard to retire, if not impossible. He was doing what she asked him to, and this is on her. She talks about the night Kiki was shot, and seeing the crates of guns on the pier, and throwing them in the harbor. She thought she could handle it; it was part of the life she chose, but after that night, she’d been pushing Sonny to find another way. After Morgan died, she told him that if he wanted his family, he’d have to get out of the business. If she hadn’t forced his hand, none of this would have happened.

Sam talks to Jason about their wedding. She’s going to keep those vows. She promises to love and cherish him in sickness and in health. She puts his ring back on his finger.

Sonny asks Sam if there’s any change. She says nothing yet, and he tells her that it will take time. Sam says she talked to Jason, and likes to think he heard her. Sonny says if he hears anyone, it will be her. He goes into Jason’s room. Molly sees Sam. She says Danny wanted her and Jason to come with them to the water park; he wants to see his parents.

Michael tells Carly that it was Sonny’s choice, and she didn’t shoot Jason. Is she just being overly dramatic and making this about her? He suggests they do something that will help, instead of bringing Sam food that she won’t eat and coffee that she won’t drink. Carly says she used to get so wound up, she’d talk herself into doing something crazy, and Jason would talk her out of it. Michael is just like him, or how he used to be. Michael says Jason is the last person who would think she should blame herself.

Lulu goes to the chapel. Dante tells her that Sonny is with Jason. She asks if he’s okay. He says he was thinking about how Sonny looks at Jason like a brother, and he’s just his son. Lulu asks if he wonders if things would be different if they’d known about each other earlier. Dante says he’d like that bond, but doesn’t think it can happen. Lulu says look how much Sonny and Jason’s friendship has cost.

Valerie tells Kristina that she picked up lunch. Parker doesn’t want to interrupt their lunch date. They make small talk. Parker tells Kristina she hopes the family stuff goes okay, and leaves. Valerie says it’s official – Parker is jealous.

Ava is like, misunderstanding and wrong idea? She asks Griff how anyone can be so clueless and shut off from their emotions. She wonders which is more foolish, him not knowing how he made her feel or her thinking he could feel that way? She asks when the last time was that he practiced what he preached?  He says he does every day, and she says every day he clings to a white collar, using it to shield him from emotions. Ava says that he tells her that she’s hiding out, but he’s hiding in plain sight from living. Even if he gave up the collar, there would be one tight around his neck, keeping him from anything but friendship. He’s afraid to feel emotion and passion, and afraid to let anyone touch him.

Griff says that Ava couldn’t be more wrong; he feels too much. She says take it from an art dealer, he’s no more human than a painting or sculpture. He’s a depiction of a man. She’s sorry she wasted her time with his pity and false compassion. She’s done. She turns to leave, and Griff grabs her hand.

Kristina tells Valerie that she knows she should say she’s over it and it’s meaningless. Valerie asks what the truth is, but Kristina doesn’t know what she wants.

Lulu asks if Dante thinks that Sonny will stay in the mob, and he says that he’s concerned about it. Lulu thinks if Sonny wants help, he’ll make it happen. If not, Dante has her, Rocco, and Charlotte. He says he’s the world’s luckiest man, and they kiss.

Sam wonders how many times the kids can hear that one of their parents are hurt, and she doesn’t know what to say. Carly and Michael ask if they can do anything. Sam says that she doesn’t know what to say to Danny. Michael says he needs a distraction. Molly says she tried that, and Michael says maybe he can change Danny’s mind. Carly says she’s going to take Sam home, where she’s going to shower, get some food, and try to sleep. Then she can come back and be strong for Jason.

Sonny tells Jason that he’s sorry for all of it. He knows it’s too little too late, but also knows what needs to be done.

Tomorrow, Curtis tells Jordan that they make a good team, Danny asks if his dad is okay, and Sonny says there’s no getting out of this life for him.

🍆 🍚 On MasterChef, chopsticks were in the mystery box, and the cooks had to make an Asian inspired dish with their own twist. Dino won, which officially put him in the top six. The elimination test was making pasta from scratch. Both Gabriel and Yachecia got the full Gordon, with him telling Gabriel his dish was a disaster and looked horrible, and informing Yachecia that hers was the worst performing dish in the game, adding that the filling looked like cat food, and the broth like something from the bottom of a dish washer. Ouch! I wondered why mint ends up in everything. I don’t even like mint gum, and the second I hear it’s an ingredient, I’m like, no. Eboni ended up the winner, and Gabriel was out. However, he got a huge consolation prize. Gordon will be paying his way through culinary school, after which he’ll have a job waiting for him with Aaron. It was kind of like when Jennifer Hudson lost on American Idol, but then sang with Barry Manilow the next day, and went on to win an Oscar. Sometimes losing isn’t losing.

In the second hour, Jason was captain of the red team, and Eboni captain of the blue, when the cooks worked a pop-up restaurant in a vineyard. They created two appetizers – a scallop dish and lobster capellini – and two entrees – duck breast and filet mignon. I actually learned something about how to make a capellini nest by twisting it around on a spoon. Eboni tried to do Jeff a favor by picking him for her team, hoping to break his challenge curse. It backfired, and they lost. But instead of taking it graciously, or even making a joke of it, Eboni blamed the loss on Jeff, Jeff, and more Jeff, saying that he really was cursed. Jeff fired back, and the whole thing was embarrassing. Third team member Cate wisely stayed out of the argument. The pressure test was a chocolate soufflé. Somehow, even Jeff created perfection on a plate, and all three were moved to the next round, Gordon saying everything was so good, they couldn’t eliminate anybody. All was forgiven and everyone hugged. Next time, raw fish, but not on purpose.

🔪 A new Gordon Ramsay effort, Hell’s Kitchen All Stars, will be airing starting Friday, September 29th, at 9 pm. That’s the same start date for Z Nation, which I’m hoping is on at 10.

Why They’re Better Than People

Dogs are our link to paradise. They don’t know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring – it was peace.Milan Kundera

JulietSpring2017

My Little Old Girl

 

September 5, 2017 – Ava Comes Out of Her Shell, a Funeral is Planned & the Return of Captain Lee

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

 

General Hospital

Andre startles Anna, who’s busy on her phone. She asks if he was able to trace the diamond to the jewel thieves he was tracking in central Europe, and more important, to Valentin.

Officer DeRoche brings Nelle back, and says Nina has friends in high places. Valentin walks in, and asks who he is, and Nina says incompetent. She’s going to have him fired. She says he arrested Nelle, botched the investigation, and now the necklace is probably being divided. Valentin says here it is, and pulls it out.

Ava and Kiki have coffee at Perks. Ava asks her a million questions about the fast track program, and Kiki tells he not to try so hard. She thinks that Ava is freaked out about people staring. Kiki says they’re not, but even if they were, who cares? She says she’s thrilled that Ava is done hiding out, and that Griff is a miracle worker, but she knows it’s hard. Ava says she’ll be strong for Kiki. Kiki says she’s grateful that Ava has decided to start living again. Ava says she’s had help.

Dr. Bensch tells Griff that Marisol’s right side is paralyzed, and she doesn’t have much time. He tells Griff that he’s sorry; nothing ever prepares you for this. Her parents are asking for Griff. He goes over to where they’re sitting, and Marisol’s father asks if there’s anything he can do.

Finn calls Curtis. He asks why Curtis isn’t returning his messages, and to please call him. There’s a knock at the door. It’s Curtis. No Hayden though. Finn asks where she is.

Nina asks how Valentin found the necklace. He says he did his own search, and it wasn’t stolen. It wound up with the makeup. Dillon says they practically tore the place apart. DeRoche asks how he found it when no one else did. Nelle tells DeRoche to buzz off, but he says the case isn’t closed. Valentin talks to him in French. DeRoche says on second thought, it’s closed, and leaves. Nelle thanks them. Nina says she’s sorry it happened, and Nelle should get hazard pay. She tells Dillon they’re scrapping the photo shoot. She says it’s been incredible, but it’s time to pack up and get out.

Andre says the thieves were well-organized and well-equipped, and their MO was consistent. In and out in less than ten minutes, and only big-ticket items. He says their driver was good, but whoever planned the heists was better. He says smash and grab is impulse, but these were planned out to the last detail. He thinks Valentin might have used mercenaries, or been one himself. Anna asks if they can tie him to the robberies. Andre thought they made peace, but Anna says that she’s not blind to who he is. He’s spent most of his life outside the law. Charlotte and Nina might have settled him down somewhat, but he lives by his own code, and might be maintaining ties to associates if it’s advantageous to him.

Griff explains to Marisol’s parents that her organs shutting down. Mrs. Valdez weeps, asking if Griff can’t do something. Mr. Valdez says that he’s a doctor, not a priest. Griff promises she won’t suffer, and Mr. Valdez says God bless him for everything he’s done. They go back to Marisol’s room, and Griff calls a priest to come to GH – and hurry.

Kiki tells Ava that Dr. Bensch is giving her the opportunity for second or third year stuff. Ava laughs, and Kiki asks if she sounds like a kid. Ava says she sounds like she knows what she wants, and is smart and talented enough to make it happen. Just a few months ago, she didn’t know what she wanted to do, now look. Kiki says if she can go for what she wants, so can Ava. Ava says she’s going to start asking herself what would Kiki do? They both leave for the hospital.

Curtis tells Finn he’s sorry. Finn asks where she is, but Curtis says he doesn’t know. He found her trail, but she has the hiding thing down. he got to LAX, where Hayden called him. He doesn’t know how she knew, but she told him to meet her at a hotel. When he got there, the room was empty, but she’d left this. He shows Finn a suitcase.

Nelle speaks with the ambassador, telling him it was just a mix-up. She explains to Valentin that she knows him from the Hamptons. Valentin says he was searching for hours. She says she knows every place in the area, and she’s grateful that he recovered the necklace, but wants to know what he’s covering up.

Anna wonders how the diamond ended up at Wyndemere. Andre suggests Hayden, and she tells him about seeing Raymond. He asks if she believed him. She says if he’s capable of love, he loves his daughter. She starts talking about how you have to make conscious effort to do better, and not just think you can cover your tracks and be decent by day and a criminal by night. Andre says they’re not talking about Raymond anymore.

Finn opens the suitcase. Inside is a bunch of clothing, and the What to Expect pregnancy book. Curtis says that’s not all she left behind. The room hadn’t been cleaned, and he went through the trashcan. She’s not just running; she’s planning on reinventing herself again. Curtis hands Finn her passport. Seriously? A pro like her would have just thrown that away?

Ava tells Kiki to go wow Dr. Bensch. She sees Griff all stressed out. The priest arrives, and Griff takes him into Marisol’s room. He listens, and blesses himself as Ava watches.

Nina asks if Valentin is going to tell her where he was. He says no, and she asks if he’s going to tell her how he recovered the necklace. He says no again, and she asks if this is what he meant by not staying within confines of law. He tells her it is, and she asks if he took the necklace. He tells her that he’d never do anything like that to her. He made some phone calls, and she asks if they were to people that he did business with in the past. He says yes, and asks if it changes anything. She plays with her ring.

Nelle tells Dillon that if he ever has to spend the night in custody, to have a place like this to come back to. Dillon can’t believe she’s making jokes. She says she’s been treated like a criminal before, and it probably won’t be the last time. Dillon says the film is in the can, the necklace has been returned, and they have the whole day to bask in spa treatments. Nelle asks about Jason, but Dillon says he left a voicemail for Ned, but hasn’t followed up, and Kiki is focused on her pre-med program

Dr. Bensch asks Kiki questions. He tells her he wants her observation, not speculation. Kiki goes over the tremor one of the patients had. She says there could be a medical explanation, or it’s possible he’s nervous or panicky about another person being in the room. He kept looking at her before answering the doctor’s questions, and it could be anxiety. She thinks maybe she’s way off base, but Dr. Bensch says they have more patients to see and tells her to keep up.

Finn tells Curtis that Hayden wanted him to have this stuff, and he’s not giving up. He can still find her. Curtis says she did more than leaving her ID behind; she left Finn a message. It was propped up against a cactus plant on the desk. He hands Finn an envelope.

Valentin wishes he was better man, and could offer Nina a spotless past, although he thinks a checkered one makes for a more interesting person. He says that he can’t take some things back, but the only thing he fears is losing her and Charlotte. It keeps him up at night, knowing everything he’s done. She says it sounds bad, and he says it was, but all he can do is tell her the truth in a general way, and hope she loves him for who he is. She says she loves him, good or bad. He says that’s all that matters, and they kiss.

Andre tells Anna to clarify why she’s doing it. She insists that it’s not a vendetta; it’s strictly WSB business. She’s going to follow the trail of the diamond where it leads. Andre gives her a folder. He tells her it looks like a Cassandra Pierce was working with the jewel thieves. He says there’s no way to prove it, but Valentin could have sold the diamonds to Cassandra, who turned them around and sold them at markup and invested the money. Anna doesn’t think Valentin would be involved in something that’s simply stolen goods for cash; she can’t see it. Andre says Cassandra has been living in Monaco, and Anna wonders when was the last time Valentin was in Monte Carlo.

Griff comes out, obviously upset. Ava asks if he’d like to talk. She wants to return hid kindness. He says there’s nothing she can do; there’s nothing anyone can do, and he gets in the elevator. Ava asks the priest about the patient. He says she’s with God now. She went peacefully, but that’s no consolation for the family or Dr. Monroe. He tells Ava that he has the blessing of being both a priest and a doctor, a savor of both body and soul, but right now he feels like a failure at both. Ava gets in the elevator.

Finn looks at the note. Hayden says that she doesn’t know what to write or what to say except that she’s sorry. She’s sorry for the secrets and lies, and her inability to trust. Most of all, she’s sorry for taking the coward’s way out, and leaving before the wedding. At least she knows he’s free to find someone worthy of his love. She tells him to forget she ever existed.

Nina sees that Valentin is wounded, and he says it’s nothing. She tells him that she can’t afford to lose him, and the necklace was insured. She reminds him of how she thought she’d never see him again when he went to The Hague. No one has ever loved her like he has and no one ever will. Valentin feels the same way. She tells him not to risk his life for a necklace or anything. She suggests they just be happy, and they kiss some more.

Nelle thanks Dillon for defending her when he had no reason to believe that she was innocent. He tells her that he took her at her word, and she would have done the same. He says they both have a healthy disrespect for authority. She kisses him on the cheek, and goes off to get a massage.

Kiki tells Dr. Bensch she knows she has a lot to learn, and she’s more than willing to do the work. He tells her that what she said – she interrupts, saying that she knows she should go by science and not feeling. He says that she was spot on. Empathy can’t be taught, and she had a rare understanding of someone older than herself. He says the tremor could be an indication of early Parkinson’s, but anxiety made it more obvious. He likes instincts, and tells her to trust them.

Curtis asks if Finn is okay. Finn says he should go. Curtis doesn’t want to leave him like this, but he says he’ll be fine. Curtis leaves. Finn reads the rest of the note. Hayden says there’s one more thing. Something was wrong with the baby. There was a complication, and the baby didn’t survive. We see Hayden crying as she writes. Finn sinks to the floor and cries.

Griff uses a speed bag at Sonny’s gym. Ava comes in, and watches him. He stops for water and sees her. They stare at each other.

Dillon’s phone rings. It’s Kiki. He asks about Jason. She tells him that Jason is out of surgery, but still in recovery. She asks when he’s coming home, and he tells her tonight. She says that Dr. Bensch likes her instincts. He’s having a hard time hearing her, and she tells him that she’s working her tail off while he was hanging out in Morocco. Dillon says he’ll tell her all about it when he gets home.

Nina dresses Valentin’s wound. He says he’s feeling better already, and apparently so, since they get busy.

Ann tells Andre that there’s no proof that the diamond was ever in Valentin’s possession or that his past association with the thieves is ongoing. She says that Andre is right. He asks if she’s closing the book on it, and she asks what he thinks, and smiles. She says she’ll be in touch. She has to make some arrangements  and Monaco is lovely this time of year. He tells her to stay safe.

Finn continues reading. Hayden says there’s nothing to bind them together anymore, and no need for him to find her. She says that he’s a wonderful person and will find love again. She hopes his new love appreciates how special he is, and how lucky she is to have him. She tells him good-by. Hey, where’s Roxie? How come we never see her anymore? Finn picks up a picture of Hayden’s sonogram, which is a very large baby for how pregnant she was. He clutches it to his chest, and cries.

We see Hayden folding the letter and tossing the passport away. When she gets up, we see that she’s still pregnant – as I suspected.

Tomorrow, Ava calls Griff a hypocrite, Parker tells Kristina that she’s not seeing anyone, and Dante has news for Sonny.

The Haves and the Have Nots

Jim tells Kathryn he loves her. She says she doesn’t love him. There’s been too much pain and heartache. He says after everything they’ve conquered together, really? Yep. She’s going to divorce him. He says she just let him make a fool of himself by allowing him to sleep with her. She says sorry, but she’s done. He does the “baby” thing, and she tells him he should have listened to her about Amanda and Wyatt, and he’s never apologized. He says he’s sorry, but she says it doesn’t matter now; their daughter is dead. He says he thinks about it every day, and the only thing that gets him through is thinking about her and Wyatt. She says he’s out there doing God knows what with a load of money. She doesn’t think she can handle another phone call saying he’s dead. She tells him to go, but Jim says he loves her and he’s not going anywhere.

Jim repeats that he loves her and she laughs. She asks him when her birthday is and don’t look at his phone. He says it’s in February, but she says it’s June. She asks when Wyatt’s birthday is, but he gets that right. She asks when they’re anniversary is and he says he’s not playing this game. She says when you love someone, you know these things. He gets it right, and says he’s not a total idiot. She says he made a horrible mistake, coming in here and trying to seduce her like the Jim from thirty years ago. Golden hair and tight jeans were all he had, and he thought she’d fall for the memory. Does he think she’s that stupid? He says he wanted to make love to his wife. She tells him to be honest for once. She’s not the public or a politician or the campaign trail. She says it didn’t work, and he asks why she participated. She says for this moment, when she tells him she’s through and doesn’t want to see him anymore. If he’s there when she gets back, she’ll take the gun that she killed Jennifer with, and blow his brains out, just as easy as she just blew something else. Whoa.

David brings Erica to his apartment. She goes to use the bathroom, and David calls Jeffrey. He tells Jeffrey that they found a bracelet and set of keys with Quincy’s body. Jeffrey says the keys are his, but he doesn’t know who the bracelet belongs to. He asks what he should do, and David says stay where he is. Veronica is calling every five minutes, and David tells him not to answer and stay away from her. He’s working on something. He’ll let Jeffrey know after it’s done. Jeffrey asks if David is going to hurt Veronica, and David says he’d never do that, and tells him again to stay away. Jeffrey says she knows where he is, and David tells him to change rooms. The hotel Jeffrey is in is booked, and David says go to another hotel. Duh.

Wyatt calls Jeffrey. Jeffrey says he sounds so clear. Wyatt says he’s good, and Anna is amazing. He asks if Jeffrey wants to join them for a walk. Jeffrey says he has a lot going on. Wyatt asks if he’s still going to avoid him. Jeffrey says he’s not, and Wyatt asks about Justin. He tells Jeffrey how Justin showed up with the DA. He says Justin is weird, and to stay away from him. An unusually happy moment between them.

Jeffrey calls Justin, and says he wants to see him now. Just to talk.

David tells Erica that she’ll be safe there. She appreciates it, and he says it’s the least he can do. She says he owes her nothing. David wishes he’d tell her his name. Erica thinks it’s best she stay away from him and leave it at that. He says these situations never resolve themselves on their own. She asks if they can drop the subject, and asks for a drink. She says it’s a nice place, and it is. The view is spectacular, and I think everything is from Urban Home. Omg, she reads my mind, and asks if he did the decorating. That’s a no. He toasts to getting better and stronger, and she says and to him being a free man.

David tells her they have a son, and Veronica has been terrorizing him. Erica wonders if she’s using Jeffrey because of her, but he says it’s a family matter. Erica tells him to act like she’s not here. If she wasn’t, what would he be doing? He says figuring out how to get her there. She asks where the bedroom is, and if there’s just one bedroom. He says one bedroom, one bed; he wants her to sleep in the bed with him. She doesn’t think that’s right and can’t stay there. David says she can, and it’s big enough for both of them. He says to be honest, he doesn’t sleep well alone after sleeping with someone for so many years. He’d like her to stay with him. Erica asks to take it one night at a time. David says as long as she’s in his bed for the first night. His phone rings, and Erica says she’ll give herself a tour.

It’s Jim. Jim says he did the stupidest and hardest thing he’s had to do in years. He slept with Kathryn. David says she’s his wife. He says he hasn’t been attracted to her in years, but she and Veronica are out of control. David says he’s not going to deal with Veronica anymore. As soon as he gets Jeffrey out of her clutches, he’s shaking her off. Jim says Mama Rose is pissed at them, and David has to get Kathryn and Veronica the same room. He just took one for the team. Get them in the same room at the same time. Jim says they’re all going to the penitentiary if they’re not careful. He slept with Kathryn; David knows how serious this is. He says they lost a huge ally with Mama Rose, and they can’t even use their knowledge of the law until they have a meeting. David says he’ll call Veronica, but he’s not sleeping with her. Jim says he went through enough trauma for the both of them, and has to take a shower. Double whoa.

Justin arrives at Jeffrey’s room. He says he’s nervous. Jeffrey tells him to sit down. He tells Jeffrey he needs to see someone. Justin says he’s not crazy, but Jeffrey says he didn’t say that. He thinks he needs some help. He says the anger isn’t healthy for either of them. Justin is like, is that it? Jeffrey asks what else he thought it was. Justin says that it was over. Jeffrey says there isn’t anything on his end. He’s telling him to get some help. Jeffrey’s phone rings and Justin asks if it’s the guy. Jeffrey says no, and Justin gets demanding, and Jeffrey is like, this is the kind of thing I’m talking about. It’s Veronica. The phone stops ringing, and immediately starts again

Jeffrey answers this time. Veronica asks if he’s coming back, and he says no. She asks if he’s with “that boy,” and he says no. She tells him to put it on speaker or she’s coming over there. She calls Justin something like a fluffy ball of yarn, and I laugh. She says she’s going to court to file a motion to save Jeffery. If he’s not at the house in an hour, she’s turning him in. Then, she’s going to the judge’s chambers to argue his case. After that, she’s going to Justin’s wife’s room, and tell her why she should recuse herself from the case, and play the video for her. Justin warns her not to. She says that Jeffrey had better get home, and Justin had better get to the courthouse. His wife will be looking for him.

Jeffrey thinks Justin should talk to his wife. Justin says Veronica won’t do it, but Jeffrey says trust him, she will.

Charles is wrapping up a campaign speech. Landon tells him how great it was, and the poll numbers are good. Landon says he’s going to win. He asks to speak with Charles. He apologizes for what he did to Candace. Charles makes him list everything he did wrong, and thanks him. He says Landon is good at his job. Landon shows him that a search online for Candace shows virtually nothing. He tells Charles that he’s happy and excited to be working on the campaign. Charles says when it’s over, they’ll have a drink.

Landon leaves, and Charles calls Candace. She asks why he’s calling. He sys to see if she’s okay. She says she’s on her way to a funeral home. He says he knows that she’s angry and sad, and he’s sorry. She says she’s fine. He asks her to call later.

Mr. Wilson, the funeral director, leads Hanna and Benny in to view the body. Hanna asks if they can talk first. He shows them the casket that they chose, and tries to get them to pick a more expensive one, since Kathryn had told him that money was no object. Benny is like, move on, and he shows them the program. He asks if they’d like the casket open or closed, and Hanna wants it open. The director says they’ll make him look good. Benny isn’t sure it’s a good idea, but Hanna says she wants them to see what was done to that baby. Candace walks in.

Benny introduces her, and says she’s his mother. Mr. Wilson says he knows it’s a hard time. Burying a child is the part of the job he dislikes the most. Benny tells her that Hanna picked the casket. Candace insists that she wants the blue one. Hanna says it’s more expensive, and asks if she has the money. Candace asks if she does. Candace says she’s his mother, and she wants him in the blue one. Benny argues with her. Mr. Wilson says he can make calls to see if he can get a discount, and Candace says to make the calls.

Benny asks what she’s doing, and Candace says burying her son. She says Hanna went in the bathroom with him, and came out without a scratch. She didn’t get shot. Candace says that Hanna didn’t protect him to spite her. She wanted to get even with her, and wants Candace to say that she’s right. Benny tells her to stop, but Candace says she didn’t help. Benny says he was there, and Hanna did more than Candace ever has. He says that War could have killed all of them for what she did. He says she does the same thing over and over, expecting a new result, and that’s crazy. Hanna would have died for her son.

Benny tells Candace that he’s sick of what comes out of her mouth, and she says that she’s sick of him. He’s depended on her for everything since she’s been on her own, calling her for money, telling her about his fairytale dreams. He says that he was talking to his sister, someone he loves and shares his dreams with, and nobody told her to sell her ass to get anything. Candace says he’s been talking to Hanna, and Benny says her act isn’t working anymore.

Mr. Wilson comes back, and says the price is what it is. Candace says she still wants the blue one, and he asks if he should bill Kathryn. Candace is like, oh no, she isn’t paying for this, and Benny asks if she has six grand. She says that she’ll get it, and Mr. Wilson says the payment has to be made today. Geez, he’s worse than the emergency animal clinic. Candace tells him she’ll bring cash, and she decides what’s best. Benny asks how she’s getting the money. Hanna says from the man who’s running for President. She saw him on the news, saying he knows the family. I’m impressed that Hanna put this two and two together. Hanna says that Candace is probably blackmailing him. That’s why the Secret Service, and why Benny was in jail. Candace is like, what? Hanna says she’s blackmailing him. Mr. Wilson is really getting an earful of some seriously dirty laundry. Candace tells him again, the blue one. Hanna can’t believe she’d rather steal the money, and Candace says she can’t believe Hanna will take crumbs from white people’s tables.

Candace also wants a different cemetery, and says she’ll get a plot there. Mr. Wilson tells her that the service is tomorrow, and she says it will be on Thursday, and she’ll bring the money tomorrow. Mr. Wilson starts to ask if Hanna is okay with all this, but Candace tells him not to ask her another thing about her son. Candace looks at the program, and rips it up. She tells them he won’t be buried in a church, and all of a sudden, I wonder where else people get buried, since not everyone subscribes to an organized faith.

Once again, Candace says she wants the blue casket, and not this one. She opens the one that Hanna chose, and Quincy Jr.’s body is in it. I gasp out loud. Mr. Wilson says he’s sorry, and Benny tells Candace that they were there to view the body.

My hat is off once more to Tyler Perry. Not everyone can cause me to make noises during a show. Very few as a matter-of-fact.

Next time, the finale – Veronica talks to Melissa, David spends money on Erica, Justin has had enough, and Veronica is going to show him how much Black lives matter.

Below Deck

I’m so excited. The stud of the sea, Captain Lee, is back! Not that I didn’t enjoy Croatia, but…

Each cast member puts in thier two cents. We immediately find out that Captain Lee thinks the new crew is a bunch of idiots, and that we’ll be traveling to the West French Indies.

Kate enjoys yachting more because she’s doing it less. She says it’s like sex with an ex. She doesn’t want to recommit, but a fling is good. The captain tells her it was slim pickin’s with the new crew, and they basically got the leftovers. Chef Matt arrives first. He’s from Canada, and seems like a cool guy. Brianna is next. She trusts in the universe to guide her, and has no goals. Yachting is convenient for her nomadic lifestyle. Deckhand Bruno follows. It’s been his dream to work on a yacht. He’s Portuguese, and speaks three languages, but has no clue what starboard means. He also needs subtitles when he talks. Jen has an obsession with boats, and always wanted to get into yachting. She’s also a single mom, and had to put her career on hold for ten years. Nico – the only one other than Kate who’s returning from another season – has come back to yachting after dealing with some family issues, and is ready for more responsibility. Captain Lee tells him that he’s lead deckhand; he’s not ready to be a bosun yet. He says he and Kate had some differences last season, but it’s all about maturing. We’ll see. Chris and Baker round out the deckhands.

Kate asks the stews about their past service jobs, and there isn’t much. Both she and Nico go over duties with the crew. Kate tells the stews to start making the boat look great. Bruno and Chris discuss how neither one of them can tie knots. Baker tells us that she comes from a long line of Southern classy ladies, but she’s more the Burning Man type. Kate and Brianna discuss relationships. Kate says if she’s attracted to someone, it’s probably bad news.

We meet the first officer and another crewmate, but it goes by so fast, I miss their names and what they actually do. It’s like those Academy Awards for behind-the-scenes stuff. Captain Lee says he was green once, and doesn’t mind teaching the crew, but once he shows them something, it had better stick. He tells them no drinking on charter, tips are divided equally, and if you really mess up, you can find a one-way ticket home in your tip envelope.

Kate tells us that most of the chefs are crazy, and we flash back to that. She says Matt seems too good to be true. She doesn’t want to be as strict as she normally is, because this is all she’s got. She shows the stews how to fold the end of the toilet paper. I bet Martha Stewart has a video for that.

The primary guest is Dave, who made his money with a trampoline park. I imagine the insurance premiums must be pretty hefty. His wife, Amy, and a bevy of friends are joining him. They’re into extreme sports, and Dave is a meat and potatoes guy. Matt says they’re a perfect match. Captain Lee says they might have a green crew, but the guests aren’t going to give a sh*t.

Nico shows the deckhands how to use the ropes to dock the boat. The crew has dinner. Jen wants to room with a guy in order to get dominance in the bathroom, and a bigger closet. I don’t know about any of that stuff, so I assume she knows what she’s doing.

Nico does a deck check, and Kate gives the stews instruction on how to ready the boat, along with Captain Lee’s uniform. In her interview, she says adrenaline junkies are coming on board, and no one’s adrenaline is pumping more than hers. Dave immediately calls Matt” Chef No-Pants,” since he’s wearing shorts. Kate does the tour. Nico says it’s going to be a real test to move the boat off the dock, but somehow, they’re successful, and move out to sea. Amy says that for Dave, the higher and more dangerous, the better.

Captain Lee sees cushions floating in the water, and asks one of the crew to snag them. It gets pretty breezy, and the guests lose some chips. That’s not a euphemism for anything. They literally lose some taco chips. The Valor drops anchor. The cushions are rescued. Captain Lee just shakes his head.

Matt makes chicken Cesar salad, and lunch is served. Kate tells Jen to serve the ladies first, and Jen totally ignores that. Nico instructs the deckhands on how to put the tender in the water, but it’s another sh*t show. One of the guests says all kinds of things are happening, and they’re never supposed to notice anything. Captain Lee is called in to help. In his interview, he says he’s more than happy to show them how to do things – once. Kate explains clearing a table. Matt asks how it’s going, and she hopes she’ll only have to teach them on the first charter. Some of the guests use equipment that’s like water-skiing, but you go way up in the air. Like space shoes. I don’t know what this thing is, but it looks scary and fun. Baker says that the fact she’s the next most experienced is scary. Jen seems to be this season’s Lauren, since she’s already spending a lot of time in the laundry room.

Kate make a beautiful fall-color table setting. Jen confuses a gin martini with a gin and tonic. The guest tells her it’s not a martini, and she says she didn’t make the drink. Maybe not, but she ordered it. In her interview, Kate says she asked where the gin, tonic, and olives were, and it’s like which thing doesn’t belong? She says she should have known better, but she’s clearly overwhelmed.

Matt says that the first dinner is extremely important, and cooking what the guests want makes them happy. Just looking at the food makes me happy.

Nico gets a headache trying to teach Bruno one knot.

Kate feels like if she doesn’t check something herself, it’s not going to be right, and basically she’s working alone. Captain Lee asks Nico how it’s going. Nico explains about his younger brother passing away after a fall from a balcony. He says it felt like it wasn’t real. He still tried to call his brother’s phone, but he doesn’t pick up, and is never going to. The captain is sympathetic, and I am too, especially when Nico tears up in his interview. I know that feeling of picking up the phone, and then realizing the person is no longer alive.

Oooh, breakfast. Thank God I love swimming. If I was ever blessed enough to go on a cruise like this, I would eat myself into oblivion. At least swimming would burn off some calories. Dave calls the omelets “art.” Afterwards he takes the long dive from the top. A few of the others dive too. The stews get the beach picnic ready. Brianna likes them, because they can escape the madness. Kate leaves to set up. Kate tells Baker that it’s hard for the stews to work up to speed and learn at the same time. The guests arrive at the beach on the tender.

Back at the yacht, it’s time to put out the toys. Nico tells Bruno to get in the water, and unhook the rope on the slide. For whatever reason, Bruno isn’t getting what Nico is saying, and just flails about in the water. Nico doesn’t know how he’s going to make it through the season. Brianna and Jen relieve Kate at the beach, and Jen struggles to open the wine. On the tender, Kate tells Nico that she’s working by herself. In her interview, she says whatever differences she and Nico had, they need to leave the past behind, as they only have each other.

This season, Captain Lee dresses up, there’s a record tip, obnoxious guests, an embarrassing anchor drop, the boat hits a dock, and there are hook-ups. Nico tells us that the crew is greener than a leprechaun’s d*ck. It looks amazing!

🐄  Jax and Brittany Take Kentucky is being shown way too many times a week. It’s like, oh, we have a half-hour to fill? Just put Jax in. I’ve seen both episodes several times when I would rather not. I also don’t want to be reminded about how Jax has a foot fetish. (You’re welcome.) How about showing the Odd Mom Out with Dave Navarro again?

💍 And yes, I’ll be getting to the 90 Day trifecta later this week. Since Game of Thrones is done, and there were no Shahs this past Sunday, I was glad to be able to watch at a reasonable time.

BelowDeckCaptainLee

Captain Lee is all of us.

September 4, 2017 – GH Holiday, Double the Wives & Some Danielle

Standard

What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

 

Due to the holiday, General Hospital aired a rerun today.

The Real Housewives of Orange County

Tamra is vacuuming, and she asks Eddie what’s wrong with this picture. He says it’s a sight you don’t see every day, and she tells him it’s messed up. He says it is; he’s the one who’s the Mexican. How dare he have a sense of humor about such a sensitive subject? Just kidding – I thought it was funny.

Kelly and Meghan meet to go crib shopping. Aspen doesn’t have a crib yet, because she and Meghan are co-sleeping, but it’s time for more independence. Meghan looks at a crib that’s a thousand dollars and change. Kelly says that’s a pair of shoes, and Meghan says that would be two pair for her. For me, that would be a hundred pairs of shoes. Meghan shows Kelly pictures of her and Shannon kissing when they were drunk. Kelly tells Meghan about meeting Shannon at a bar, and that Shannon’s phone was on record. Megan wonders what the point would be, but Kelly doesn’t know.

Peggy’s daughter. Gia, was accepted to an NYC school, so Peggy is going along with her to check it out. She and Diko aren’t on the same page about Gia – he doesn’t want her to move, but Peggy doesn’t want to hold her back. Diko wants Peggy to put a lid on the spending when she’s there, but she says he’s acting like a hypocrite, since their garage of cars is worth millions. If you watch these shows long enough, you start going, “Two million? That’s not bad for that house,” when they do a Living Large segment on the news.

Kelly’s mother, Bobbi, comes by and asks how it went last night. Kelly tells her about Shannon having her phone on record, and that she’d told Meghan about it. She tells Bobbi that Meghan immediately got on the phone to Shannon, who then called her and said she never tried to record anything. Kelly decides to believe Shannon. Bobbi wonders if Meghan was trying to stir the pot, and Kelly calls her. She tells Meghan that she’d wanted to talk to Shannon herself, but Meghan says she thought she was making it better, and apologizes for not letting her handle it. In her interview, Meghan says she didn’t want Kelly to ruin the relationship she and Shannon had just built. Kelly tells Bobbi she can’t trust Meghan now. Maybe her intentions were good, but Kelly isn’t five, and she shouldn’t have gotten in the middle. Let Kelly make her own mistakes, or not.

Vicki and Meghan meet for lunch. They talk baby stuff. Meghan wants to understand where Vicki is coming from with Shannon and Tamra. Her private investigator side is making a comeback. Holy! Meghan’s earrings are ginormous. She tells Vicki that she sounded like a victim, and wonders what they did to hurt her. Vicki says that they’re constantly accusing her about being involved in a scam. She says she got hurt, and benefited from nothing. In her interview, Meghan says she benefited by the attention that she craved. I dunno. I’d say the bad outweighed the good for her, and I honestly think she wanted to believe Brooks, because she has a hard time being alone. Vicki tells Meghan that it took her a year to get over it, and it was like a death. She says she would never do that to Tamra, and Meghan brings up how she said Eddie was gay. Vicki says she only repeated something someone told her. Meghan says what about Vicki saying that Shannon’s husband beat her. Vicki says she shouldn’t have repeated it, but she has the back-up texts. Meghan asks if she wasn’t afraid for Shannon’s well-being if she thought it was true, and Vicki says she was, but didn’t think it was her place to interfere. Vicki tells her that they shouldn’t talk about it, and she can’t fix it. Meghan wants to talk to Jimmy, Shannon, and the rest of the world, but Vicki says she doesn’t want to hurt Shannon. I think Meghan is a gossip under the guise of being concerned.

Tamra and Shannon go to a costume place. Shannon has invited everyone to a drag queen Bingo night that’s going to benefit a youth organization. They’ve decided to go in reverse drag, and are getting costumes for the other women; they’re going to surprise them with this idea. Shannon puts together a Bret Michaels costume. Her phone rings while they’re in the store. It’s Meghan, because she can’t help herself. She tells Shannon about the lunch, and tells her that Vicki claimed to have back-up texts about the rumor. Tamra wears a Peter Pan hat, and says that she gives Meghan credit. For what? Meddling? Shannon says she appreciates Meghan being a good friend. Tamra says if Vicki had proof, the world would have known a year ago.

Tamra brings all the costume stuff to Shannon’s, where Shannon is getting her makeup done. We flash back to the many costumes of Tamra. She says if the girls know what they’re up to, they’re not going to show up. I don’t know why. They’ve done weirder things. Tamra says that Shannon is a dead ringer for Bret – and she is – but she’s not sure if that’s a compliment. Kelly and Lydia arrive, and are met by the other two in costume. Lydia isn’t sure if she can do this. She says she’s never been to a drag queen event. She feels like things are going down the road like with Strippergate, but she’s trying to be open-minded. She says she looks like Liza Minelli and Charley Chaplin’s daughter, and she’s right.

Steve is making dinner for Vicki. She says he’s like a trophy man, and what every woman wants. She tells us that he satisfies her, but I don’t want to know. She asks Steve what she’s missing since her divorce, and he says a boat. She thinks they should go boat shopping as a family. I can’t say I’ve ever done that. She thinks that she and Steve should own it together, and he’s in. In her interview, she tells us that she wants to be married again, but not right this minute She tells Steve that she has plans to whoop it up on Saturday night, but he doesn’t know what that means. In her interview, she tells us they’re still working on balancing each other, whatever that means.

Some of the girls take a limo to the event at Hamburger Mary’s. Meghan is meeting them there. Peggy is busy with NYC, and Vicki is shunned. Shannon wants to go over the history of the horrible thing Vicki has done. Lydia says that the entire time she’s known Vicki, she’s never wanted to talk about it, and wants to make up with them. Shannon claims that she doesn’t even know how to download an Uber app, let alone record anyone. Kelly tells them about Meghan usurping her wish to have a conversation with Shannon herself.

At Hamburger Mary’s, Meghan dies laughing when she sees them. Drag queen Roxy Wood shows them to a dressing area, where they fix Meghan up as she pumps breast milk. The psychic who had alluded to everyone that Brooks didn’t have cancer (in whatever season that was) is there. Lydia isn’t comfortable with it, but doesn’t want to be labeled as close-minded. She doesn’t feel like she belongs there though. Meghan takes pictures. Psychic guy claims there’s a conflict with Kelly and Vicki. In her interview, Kelly thinks there’s an agenda, since Tamra invited him along.

Diko and Peggy go out for dinner. Peggy says she’s so stressed about Gia leaving for school, she’s broken out for the first time in her life. Diko thinks Peggy is pushing Gia to go, and says to let her to make the decision. He thinks that Peggy is selling it too hard, but she says no. She tells him she wants Gia to make the decision and be comfortable with it, but have the confidence to do it. She doesn’t want her to be scared. She says it will never be the right time to let go for Diko. He says it makes him sad, and Peggy says he’s letting her grow up. In her interview, she tells us that Diko had to stop his education to help his family. Wow. He did really well for himself. She tells Diko that their children need to learn what it means to be an adult. If Gia can overcome NYC, she can overcome any obstacle. She tells Diko that you can’t stop them because they’ll regret it one day. I laugh because it used to be if you can make it in NYC, you can make it anywhere. Now, you have to overcome it.

It’s time for Bingo! Lydia gets Bingo, but Shannon brings the card up for Hamburger Mary to paddle her. This must be a new kind of Bingo. We all see Shannon’s butt crack, and along with Tamra, I’ll never be able to unsee that. Meghan asks the psychic guy if Kelly is going to be nice to her, and Kelly says never. Meghan tells them about calling Shannon. Shannon swears that Meghan isn’t a sh*t stirrer, but felt the need to protect her. Meghan brings up the text Kelly sent her when she was pregnant, saying that Jim was having an affair. Because even when they say they’ll let something go, these women never, ever do.

Kelly says she thought that she and Meghan were friends, and Megan talks about the text. Shannon says that kind of allegation is the most painful. Kelly says that Meghan tried to dig up dirt on her, and shows the text that started it, where Meghan accused Kelly of having a side piece, and a subsequent one where they both apologized. Lydia has one foot out the door, and goes to the bathroom insetead. Meghan calls Kelly immature. She says she told Vicki that they’d been close, but can’t think of her the same way. Kelly wonders why she’d tell Vicki anything; she’d thought they’d worked things out. In her interview, Kelly says that Meghan is the source of the problem, not Vicki. Kelly suggests that Meghan go home and take care of her baby. Shannon says you don’t criticize someone as a mother. Tamra follows Meghan to the bathroom – great, Lydia was trying to hide out in there – and says she’s a great mom, and not to let Kelly get to her. Meghan thinks the whole conversation was stupid. Lydia suggests to Kelly that they leave. She says the issue is that they keep bringing it up again. Meghan says that she’s had Kelly’s back, and never thought this side of Kelly would be directed at her. Kelly tells Lydia that they never let things go. Meghan gets in the limo, or taxi, or whatever.

Next time, Lydia tells Meghan that she’s on Kelly’s side, Shannon talks with David, Vicki calls Tamra, and Gretchen makes an appearance.

The Real Housewives of Dallas

Stephanie and Travis go to the new house. She’s annoyed that he bought it without her input, but it’s close to the kids school and some good restaurants. She still hates the pool in the living room. Designer Amanda arrives, and has brought a pool floatie to match Ziggy the black swan. Travis immediately puts it in the pool, saying it’s a sign from God. Stephanie wants it to be more of a home. She doesn’t like the fireplace in the living room either. Or the kitchen island. Travis talks about putting in an elevator, and Stephanie says he wants to be James Bond. In her interview, she tells us that her voice isn’t being heard and he won’t give up the control. Don’t tell her, but I like the pool too.

Brandi and Bryan visit the gynecologist. Brandi tells the doctor that she has baby fever, and Bryan is in agreement. She says if they have a boy, he’ll have to get good at diapers. Brandi says that she had a “mommy makeover,” and was told that if she had another pregnancy, it might not go to term because certain muscles are too tight. She explains about the miscarriage, and says that she blames herself, but the doctor tells her not too. She says plenty of women get pregnant after the same surgery. The doctor wants to do some fertility tests.

LeeAnne meets with D’Andra. D’Andra thinks LeeAnne stepped over the line and was tacky with her costume at the Halloween, being two-faced Stephanie. (It’s so stupid. It’s like something out of young adult novel.) She says that LeeAnne has been building her reputation back up, and she can’t expect to be a motivational speaker if she does stuff like that. LeeAnne thinks Stephanie is a social climber, and says now she bought a house near Heidi, and wants to be friends with Kameron. D’Andra’s wtf? face is the best. She says LeeAnne needs to reconcile her behavior with who she wants to be. LeeAnne says she gets it, and it’s not who she is. D’Andra says if that is her, bury it. I think it is her. LeeAnne starts to give her childhood as an excuse, but D’Andra say she can’t use the little LeeAnne anymore, and has to take responsibility. LeeAnne says at least she told the truth, but D’Andra thinks she should apologize. She’s not bettering herself, but digging in the dirt. Glad somebody said it.

Brandi is taking a trip to Tennessee to visit her grandfather, who she welcomed back into her life last year. He had a stroke, and she wants to spend some time with him. Brandi calls her mother, who says he’s doing great. Brandi thinks she might be crazy to want another child, as the ones she has climb all over her while she’s trying to talk on the phone.

LeeAnne is speaking at the PositiviTea luncheon, that benefits women with HIV. She says that her behavior wrecked her reputation last year, but her anger was just one facet on her diamond, and she sparkles. Or something like that. LeeAnne is introduced. She talks about a woman she heard from who is HIV positive, but afraid to tell anyone. She wants everyone to join her in eradicating the fear. Brandi says last time she made it all about herself, but this time she made it about the cause. Kameron talks about her dog’s Cavalli outfit. LeeAnne says her dog has a hot dog costume. Brandi pointedly ignores Kameron, and in her interview, Kameron says she’s gone out of her way to be nice to Brandi, and she just analyzes her with squinty eyes. Heidi tells them about Stephanie and Travis buying the house across the street from her. Heidi is creepy. Brandi says she hasn’t mentioned it, and thinks it’s awkward. LeeAnne says it’s nothing but a money pit with a swimming pool in the living room. In her interview, Brandi says it bothers her that LeeAnne can be talking sh*t now. LeeAnne says that Stephanie wants to be a part of Dallas society.

D’Andra talks to mom Dee, and says the 90s called and wants their office space back. She wants to either overhaul or move, and thinks moving is the better choice. She says the business has run the same way for twenty-two years. She wants to update, so they’re around for the next twenty-two. She talks to Dee about revamping the product containers. Dee thinks it will take some of the glamour away. D’Andra says she tells her that she can make decisions, but then contradicts them. She complains about one of the employees giving her a hard time about ordering a computer. Dee says she should have taken charge better, but D’Andra says they listen to the person who signs the checks. She wonders if they should start over as far as the team is concerned, and Dee says the employees have to respect you or it never works.

Kameron meets Cary for tacos and tequila. They’re sitting outside, and there’s a little drizzle happening. Kameron puts a raincoat on her Birkin. In her interview, Cary says you should also put the oxygen mask on the Birkin first. They discuss their kids and mom guilt. Cary talks about daughter Zuri’s upcoming birthday party. Kameron talks about trying to get to know Stephanie, but feeling like she’s getting nowhere. We flash back to some rudeness on Brandi’s part. Cary says Brandi is slow to warm up to people, and Kameron is thinking she might be insecure, and she’s simpler. Cary says most people are, and don’t have raincoats for their handbags.

Stephanie and Brandi also meet for dinner. Brandi says it feels like a first date. Brandi talks about the new house being brought up. She says LeeAnne thinks she wants to be a socialite, but Stephanie says no, she’d wanted something closer to the kids’ school. In her interview, Brandi says she doesn’t appreciate being put in an awkward position, and that LeeAnne has no business judging what has nothing to do with her. Brandi does a pretty good imitation of Kameron.

D’Andra tells husband Jeremy about her unproductive talk with her mom. Jeremy thinks she should be firmer.

She tries to talk to Dee again, telling her that sometimes she makes an executive decision, but Dee will then say it’s not happening. She says Dee should either let her fall on her face or succeed. She knows it’s hard on her, because she’s built a legacy, but asks what it will take to trust her? Dee says has to make sure she’s comfortable with D’Andra’s money management skills. She wants D’Andra to be successful. She’s built two multi-million-dollar companies with no degree (another wow), and is probably overprotective, but she’s afraid it won’t go as D’Andra expects, and she’ll lose the company. In her interview, D’Andra says that she appreciates it, but she’s a grown ass woman who’s being treated like a kid. She could walk away, but she’s put too much in it so far.

Brandi meets Stephanie at the new house. Stephanie gives Brandi a tour, and they go out on the amazing back porch, where we see the infinity pool. In her interview, Stephanie says it’s like old times; she’s snatched Brandi from LeeAnne. Brandi tells Stephanie that LeeAnne pointed out that Heidi lives across the street. She asks how Brandi is going to like having LeeAnne around, since she’s in the same neighborhood, and clues her in that she’s never let LeeAnne in her house. She says that you never know what she’ll say, and she doesn’t want it said around the kids. Brandi says that Heidi scares her, and they decide to prank call her. Stephanie blocks the outgoing number, and Brandi talks to her in a Regan from The Exorcist voice, saying she’s been a bad girl. Stephanie is dying laughing, and when Brandi tells Heidi that she loves her, Heidi hangs up. Well, this beats the two of them crying.

Mark asks Cary about the party, and says he’ll be hanging out by the pizza oven to avoid the onslaught. Cary says there’s no such thing as dad guilt. She wants to make up for getting the wrong cake last year, and do something fun and over-the-top. The ponies arrive, and a lemur. Damn. I never got a lemur. Cary puts Zuri on a white pony, and takes pictures. Zuri immediately wants her own pony. Well, what did they expect? The other girls arrive with their kids, and everyone pets the lemur. I have massive jealousy over a 3-year-old’s party.

Stephanie thanks Cary for having her back. Kameron wonders why Brandi is friends with LeeAnne. Stephanie tells her about how she doesn’t let LeeAnne into her house. Cary thinks that LeeAnne is hard up for friends. A beautiful chocolate cake with pink icing comes out, and is acceptable to the birthday girl. Brandi gives gifts to Stephanie and Cary while Kameron is standing there. It’s sets of Jack Daniel’s answer to fireball. Brandi invites them to Tennessee, saying they should make a girls’ trip out of it. She ignores Kameron like she’s the poor stepchild. Kameron says this isn’t awkward at all. She tells Brandi that it feels uncomfortable to be standing there while she’s inviting them. She says she understands that they just met, but still. Both Stephanie and Cary say, sorry. In her interview, Kameron wonders if Brandi needs etiquette lessons, and says she’s just being a mean girl.

Stephanie and Brandi go outside. Kameron tells Travis about how rude Brandi was being. Brandi tells Stephanie that she already had said sorry to Kameron before she passed out the gifts. In her interview, Kameron wonders where Brandi learned her manners, since her kids would know it was inappropriate. Brandi says that she didn’t realize Kameron had a brain. Geez. Have we learned nothing from Legally Blonde?

Next time, the trip to Memphis happens, Brandi visits her grandmother, and LeeAnne talks behind everyone’s back.

💐 The Real Housewives of New Jersey will be back on Wednesday, October 12, at 9 pm. Danielle Staub will be rejoining the cast, and I can’t wait. IMO she set the bar for the whole franchise the day she set that book on the table.

A Few of Danielle’s Finest Moments

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NJHousewives-Danielle

 

 

September 1, 2017 – A Visit with Hayden’s Father, Jeff is a Dad, Harvey Animal Help & Something Fun

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

 

General Hospital

Anna tells Finn to stop pacing; it’s making her nervous. He says he’s looking for a human; she’s looking for information on a diamond. Anna says she thinks there’s more to the diamond than anyone knows.

Nina can’t get ahold of Valentin. She thinks it has something to do with the necklace, and begs him to call her, or better yet, come back.

Nelle wonders if Michael believes she’s innocent, and Michael reintroduces himself. She says he has reasons not to trust her, but he says that was ages ago. She tells him that she was wearing the necklace, and no one saw her put it back. He says he believes her, and she doesn’t know what she did to deserve it. They kiss

Alexis sees Diane at the bar. Diane is wondering what’s up with Max, since he was supposed to call her when the meeting was over. She knows that Sonny and Jason were involved. She explains about Sonny getting out of the business, and Alexis laughs. Diane asks if she doesn’t think Sonny can go legit, and Alexis says that Julian tried, and look where it got him.

Jake shoots Franco with a water gun, and asks if Franco wants to play. Franco tells him it’s not happening in the house – mom’s rules. Since he lives there now, they both have to abide by them. Jake sees the pictures of the boys that Franco was looking at. He asks if one is Franco, and he says yes. Jake asks who the other kid is.

Elizabeth tells Sam that the kids are asleep at Monica’s. She asks if Sam wants her to call Alexis, but Sam wants to wait for good news first. Elizabeth suggests food, but Sam says she’s not hungry. Carly and Sonny join them, bringing a huge bag. Carly says, too bad. Sam has to be at the top of her game when Jason pulls through.

Finn doesn’t want to hear about the diamond anymore. He says so what? This is his life. Anna is appreciative of that, and knows it’s hard. He says he feels a “but” coming on, and she says they need to be realistic. Finn asks what’s so important about the diamond?

Dillon tells Nina that they went through everyone’s bags and tore up the place, but no one has the necklace. The police have arrived, and are conducting their own search. She asks if Nelle is talking to them. Dillon says she didn’t do it. Nina doesn’t think she did, but says she’ll be suspect if she doesn’t cooperate. An officer comes in, asking who is this Nelle? Meanwhile, Michael and Nelle talk about enjoying some Moroccan bath salts.

Jake asks again who the boy is. Franco says he doesn’t know. He was going to look through the rest of the photos, but someone came in and soaked him. Jake thinks Franco’s imaginary friend might help him remember.

Elizabeth makes noises to Sam about how Jason supposedly quit the business. Sam tells her that Jason protected Sonny because they’re friends. It’s not okay to be fine with him being brave and loyal for her, and not anybody else. Elizabeth says he wouldn’t listen anyway.

Carly tells Sonny that he’ll be okay; it’s Jason, and he’s been through worse. Sonny says what if his luck ran out, and he had something to do with it? He wanted an easy fix and left himself wide open. Carly says he’ll be fine, and Sonny is still here. Sonny says the only thing it proved is that if he retires, someone worse will take over. Does she want that? She doesn’t.

Anna tells Finn that the diamond was stolen on a heist in Eastern Europe. She thinks Valentin is tied to it somehow. Finn says he hears things at the hospital, and he knows she was outside Valentin’s door when he got shot. He asks what’s up with them? She suggests he stay focused on his fiancé. He says he’s trying. Raymond Berlin is brought in.

Diane wonders what happened last night when Alexis was supposed to meet her. Alexis says she got left alone with a bottle of champagne. She didn’t touch it, but wanted to, so she went to a meeting. She says she put Julian in prison, and Diane says his psycho sister put him there; all Alexis did was tell the truth. Alexis says it’s more complicated than that.

Franco tells Jake to forget about the photos for now. He has to meet Elizabeth; they’re celebrating. Jake asks what they’re celebrating, and Franco says he’s going to be displaying his work, and wants to show her what her support has accomplished. Jake says that Franco did the paintings, but Franco says she changed his mind about other people seeing them. He tells Jake that Lindsay is coming to stay with him. Jake says that she has too many rules, and Franco tells him that’s why they like her. Jake stomps upstairs. Franco looks at the photos.

Carly tells Sonny not to beat himself up; she’s the one who set it in motion. She begged him to get out of the business, and used Morgan’s death as emotional blackmail. Sonny says that he wanted same thing, but Carly says that’s only because she insisted. She tells him that it’s their life, and changing the rules after all these years isn’t fair or right. Sonny tells her that she just wanted to protect their family. Sam tells them to both please stop.

Still no word from Max. Alexis wonders what he’ll do, and Diane says he’s to be kept on in some capacity. He’d go insane retiring, and so would she. She says she’s actually fine with it. Alexis asks if that’s why she keeps checking her phone, and Diane she says people in love are concerned about one another, but she’s fine. Alexis wonders why it worked out for them, and not for her and Julian. Diane says they’re two entirely different people. She and Max are honest with each other, and he’s never manipulated her. She knows him inside and out, and adores him. She says she could afford to keep him and feed him all the cheese puffs he likes, but it’s not what he wants, and she respects that. They’re honest with each other with everything from who they are, to who left milk out. She asks Alexis if she can say the same.

Finn introduces himself. Raymond says, oh, he’s the one. Anna tells him that she’s a PI that Finn hired to help locate his daughter. Raymond says that he’s not surprised she’s gone; she said she was in trouble. He asks if the police are looking for her, and Finn says that she corrected her mistake, but he thinks she ran because of him, and he’s afraid she’s left for good. He knows they were close at one time, and asks if Raymond can think of where she might have gone.

In Marrakesh, the cop introduces himself as Inspector DeRoche. Nina says she’s sure they’ll find the necklace. He says they were discussing Nelle, and it sounded like she knows more than she’s saying. Big mouth Dillon says Nelle might have a sketchy past, but that doesn’t mean she’s a thief. Nina is like, d’oh!

Nelle tells Michael that word has spread about her being the last one wearing the necklace. She’s sure everyone thinks she has it stashed somewhere. Michael asks if she can blame them.

Sam says Jason chose to leave the business, but it didn’t change his love for Sonny. She asks if Jason has ever done anything he didn’t want to, and Carly says never, but she hates that this happened. So does Sam. It was her dream for it to never happen again. She says maybe they will get to lead safe, happy lives one day, but Jason will always be Jason.

Franco comes to the hospital, and asks if he can sweep Elizabeth off her feet. He tells her that the boys are with Lindsay, but she says that Jason was shot and it’s not good. They’re still waiting to hear about the surgery.

Carly can’t believe Sam is the one talking them down, when they should be helping her. Sam says it’s good because it’s keeping her from obsessing. Franco approaches and says he’s sorry, but Sam tells him to get out of her face. Oh, okay. She just shot Jason’s best friend because she was sick, but holds a grudge against Franco for something he did a million years ago when he had a brain tumor.

Raymond has no idea where Hayden is. She talked about Finn, the baby, and her predicament, but never said anything about running. He asks Anna if she has any leads. She says not so far, but the diamonds might offer some clues. She’s not faulting him, but wonders why all but one diamond was handed over. She says it’s a long shot, but if she can source the diamond, she might get a clue as to where Hayden might be. Raymond says she’s not looking for Hayden. What does she really want?

Diane asks if Alexis still loves Julian, and Alexis wonders if it would be pathetic if she does. Diane tells her it would be human. Alexis says that every night she remembers the perfect times they had when they were a family. She says it exists, but it’s not real, like the photos in their family album. Diane says it’s real, and Alexis asks what she does with that? Diane asks if he had been exonerated, would she have taken him back? Alexis says thank God the decision was taken away from her. Diane says he did horrible things to her, and the good doesn’t outweigh the bad. Alexis says the fact she’s still hung up on him bothers her. but she knows that he really loved her. The high is so powerful, it outweighs the pain, and makes it difficult to let go. Diane says that he made it conditional that she violate the legal code, and she lost her job – the most important thing to her next to her children. Diane thinks he’s sorry he lost her, and will say what he needs to get her back. For him, the ends justify the means.

Elizabeth starts to lead Franco away. Carly says he needs to respect Jason and leave. Elizabeth tells him that Sam is just scared. Franco says that he should have given them space. Elizabeth is more concerned about Jake, and wonders what she’s going to tell him about his dad.

Carly asks Sonny what if Franco comes back? Sonny says Elizabeth won’t let him. Carly leaves to call Michael.

Michael tells Nelle that he can totally picture her as an international jewel thief. He gets the call from Carly. She tells him that Jason has been shot, and it’s not great. He asks about Sonny, and she says he’s fine, but they wanted to keep Michael in the loop. Jason is in surgery, and they’re waiting. Michael asks if Jason is going to be okay, and she says she’ll update him when they know. Nelle asks what happened, and Michael tells her that Jason has been shot and is in the hospital.

Raymond realizes Anna is the one who called, and when he said he didn’t want her visiting, she rode in on Finn’s coattails. Finn says he’s grasping at straws, and wanted to take any help he could. Anna says that she’s not trying to get Raymond in trouble, but the diamond is different from the others. It was stolen from another dealer. Raymond says that he was a crook, but didn’t troll the black market. If there’s anything shady, he didn’t know. He tells her they’re done. He hopes Finn finds Hayden. He’d like to get to know his grandchild. He’s not optimistic though. When she was off the grid before, she wasn’t found until she wanted to be. One thing she’s good at is disappearing.

The officer wants to see the picture of Nelle wearing the necklace. Dillon says he took the pictures to test the lighting. DeRoche asks if anyone else was present when she took it off. Dillon says no, and the officer says he’ll take it from here. He leaves, and Dillon tells Nina that he should have kept his mouth shut. Nina says he was only trying to help, but next time, let her do the talking.

Michael says Jason is in surgery. Nelle asks about the prognosis, but he says they don’t know, but he always manages to survive. She asks if Michael is okay, and he says it’s not the first time he’s been here with Jason. Jason raised him for a while as a baby, and was always there for him. He wants to be there in case Jason needs him.

Elizabeth wonders how Jake will handle it if something bad happens. Franco says hopefully, they won’t have to find out.

Sam looks at Christmas pictures on her phone. She debates calling Alexis.

Alexis asks Diane why everything is so complicated all the time. Diane tells her maybe they’ll get a break now. Max calls, and she says that the tide is changing already. She steps away and Alexis gets a text from Sam saying that Jason is in the hospital, but not to worry. She says so much for smooth sailing.

Anna tells Finn that went well. She’s sorry Hayden’s father couldn’t help; she was hoping for a better outcome. Finn asks if she believes him. She doesn’t know, but she needs to find out how Spencer found the diamond, and if he found it at Wyndemere, is it tied to the current owner? This makes no sense, since Valentin didn’t even show up there until much later, but okay. Finn says he’ll help her.

Finn gets a text from Curtis. He’s found Hayden.

Michael is about to leave, and Nelle tells him to call when he lands. Nina and Dillon walk in, and Nina tells them a cop with an attitude is on his way to question them. Michael thinks it’s ridiculous, and says ELQ has a lot of holdings there. He asks if he should intervene, but Nelle tells him to go. Nelle asks how worried she should be, and Dillon thinks he inadvertently made it worse. DeRoche enters, and Nina tells him to deal with her assistant carefully; she has the ability to make this an international nightmare. DeRoche accuses her of trying to protect Nelle. Nelle says she didn’t steal the necklace, but he tells her that she’s under arrest.

Carly asks Sam how she’s holding up, and Sam says she’s okay, but wants an update. Alexis runs in. Sam says she told her not to worry, but Alexis says it’s too late. Sam tells her that Jason was shot, but she doesn’t want to go over the details right now. Alexis sits next to Sam and holds her.

A doctor comes out and says the surgery was more complicated than they anticipated, but Jason made it through. Sam asks if she can be there when he wakes up, but the doctor says they’re not sure if he’s going to regain consciousness.

On Monday, GH will air a repeat; on Tuesday, Anna talks to Andre about the diamond, Nina asks what’s being covered up, and Griff flips out.

😵 Speaking of Flipping Out, this week, Jeff and Gage welcomed an, as yet unnamed, baby girl into the world. Lots of tears and angst and waiting. The other half of the show focused on something I’ve known all along. For all his sarcasm, brashness, and love of embarrassing his employees, Jeff is a wonderful boss. When Vanina decided to leave the nest, Jeff took her out to lunch, and told her what a fabulous employee she was. He said he didn’t want to lose her, and asked what he could do to keep her. I’ve always thought he has a good heart, and this confirmed it. She did not take the offer, preferring to go for creating a business all her own. She told Jeff that she felt if she didn’t take the opportunity now, she might regret it later. Jeff was gracious and understanding. Employers take note. This showed how to value a good employee.

Quotes of the Week

Because sometimes the simplest way to affirm someone’s significance is to take time to hear her story.Alicia Bruxvoort

Fear is going to be a player in your life, but you get to decide how much. Jim Carrey

What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.Jane Goodall

The hardest thing, I think, is to live richly in the present, without letting it be tainted and spoiled out of fear for the future or regret for a badly managed past.Sylvia Plath

Harvey Animals

It’s been a helluva week for those in the path of Hurricane Harvey. Having been through Hurricane Sandy myself, my heart goes out to them. For anyone who hasn’t gone through a natural disaster, it takes years to recover from. There are people here who still aren’t back in their homes, and many who will never have a home to go back to. If you’re able to donate, please do, but research where your donation is going, as scammers and grifters come out of the woodwork whenever there’s a tragedy. And please don’t forget the animals.

You can help with a free click at:

https://greatergood.com

You can also donate directly here:

https://theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/store/ARS/item/84697?origin=GGCOM-BTTN-84697-DONATEDIRECT&gg_medium=content&gg_source=ggc&gg_campaign=bttn-84697&gg_term=08292017&gg_content=gtgm-link

Enjoy Your Long Weekend

🎪 Leaving you with something fun. This guy had never seen Game of Thrones before and explains an episode as it’s going along. It’s hysterically funny, and reminds me of how I try to explain shows.

 

 

August 31, 2017 – Nelle is Suspect All Over the Place, I Don’t Like Jax & Three Times 90 Days

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

 

General Hospital

Kiki drops by Ava’s apartment, surprising her, and asks how she’s doing after the trial. Ava says the Jeromes are getting their karma, and Kiki changes the subject, asking if Ava’s blouse is new. She says that Ava seems energized, and Ava says that she is. Kiki wonders what she missed.

At the hospital, Griff visits a little girl, Marisol, and her father thanks him for staying with her during the bomb scare. Griff asks her what’s up, and she asks if she’s going to die.

Bobbie tells Carly that what Felicia found out about Nelle is substantiated and disturbing. Carly looks at the article, and says omg.

Nelle tells Dillon that she doesn’t want to pretend to be someone else, and she wants him to delete the pictures. Dillon says that she has future in modeling, and she tells him that if he doesn’t delete them, she will. They struggle over the laptop, and Michael walks in. He asks if they need a referee. He wonders if Nelle would like a moonlight camel ride, and she says he has to get out of there right now.

Nina tells Valentin that the agreement for the necklace required 24-hour security, and it probably just ended up in the wrong place. She gets back in bed with him. She can’t wait to get home, and be a family with him and Charlotte again. He says that Charlotte will be thrilled. Nina thanks him for making her dreams come true.

Sonny goes to the station with Dante. He wants to check on Jason, and says they already went over it at the warehouse. If he hadn’t killed Petro, he and Sam would have been dead, and Jason got in between Petro’s shot at Sam. He says he shot Petro, now Jason is fighting for his life instead of him.

Elizabeth sees Sam at the hospital. Sam has blood all over her, and Elizabeth asks what happened.

Ava tells Kiki that Julian accepted his punishment to avoid further embarrassment and humiliation to his family. Kiki says that Ava has a smile on her face, and Ava says maybe that’s because she’s with her amazing daughter. Kiki tells her that she was accepted to the accelerated med school program, and Ava says, her daughter the doctor. She says every mother dreams of a better life for her children. Kiki says she has to head over to the hospital, and Ava tells her that she’s headed the same way for a therapy appointment. Kiki marvels at the day getting better and better. Ava says that she isn’t ready to be a recluse yet.

Griff tells Marisol that she’s there to get better, so don’t talk about dying. He says they’re going to do everything they can to make her headaches go away, and he’ll put a rush on the test results. Her father tells her that Griff came through for them before, and will again.

Carly says it was kayak accident. Bobbie points out that he drowned just before wedding, and after changed his will to make Nelle the beneficiary. Carly says Nelle was never charged, and Bobbie tells her the evidence was all circumstantial. She tells Carly that Nelle never saw a dime from the will, but there’s always next time.

Nelle tells Michael that she missed him. She says that it’s her responsibility to take care of everything there, and she doesn’t want Nina to think she’s slacking. Dillon says that Nina probably won’t care, and they did fine without her. He tells Michael that Nelle is thinking of a career change, and shows him the pictures.

Valentin talks about what he and Nina can do while they’re there, like go to Casablanca. The assistant who had brought the jewelry comes in, and tells Nina that they haven’t found the necklace. Nina doesn’t want to involve the police yet, and Valentin mentions that then the insurance company will get involved. Nina tells the assistant she’ll talk to the crew first. Valentin says he’ll come along

Sonny says he must have been delusional to think he could get out of the business. Dante says that he tried to do right thing, and Sonny says, yeah and look what happened. He asks if this is where Dante says violence doesn’t solve anything, and says this is the way it always ends up. Dante says he wanted a better life, and Sonny asks if it’s better for Petro to run Port Charles, even though that’s not an option anymore. Dante says he’d take Sonny over him, but Sonny is his father and he loves him, but he’s also a cop. It would be better for him if Sonny wasn’t in the business. Sonny says sometimes wishes don’t come true.

Sam tells Elizabeth what happened, and that Jason is being stabilized so they can operate. Elizabeth says that they’re just being thorough, but Jason will make it because he’s Jason.

Dr. Bensch gives Griff the test results, and Griff doesn’t look happy. Kiki comes by with Ava, and says guess who’s going to therapy voluntarily, without even an eyeroll? Ava asks Griff if everything is okay. Kiki goes back to work, and Ava asks Griff if he read the paper. When he says no, she tells him she’s the bearer of good news. There’s nothing in it; he’s in the clear. He’s distracted, and she says sorry for bothering him. He says no, he’s sorry. He’s just a little jealous. She got to deliver good news, and he’s about to do the opposite.

Bobbie tells Carly she’s not saying I told you so, but she knew they’d find something. She urges Carly to call Michael, saying that he needs to know. Carly says not from her. She tells Bobbie that if Nelle invites him kayaking, she’ll tell him. She turned a corner, and it feels good, so she’s reserving judgement. Bobbie asks who she is, and what has she done with her daughter? Carly says that she already lost one son; she doesn’t want to lose another.

Nina and Valentin arrive at the photo shoot site. Nelle says she must have been happy to see Valentin, and Nina says that’s an understatement, showing her the rings back on her finger. Nina tells them about the missing necklace. Nelle says there have been people in and out of there, and Michael says it’s not her job to babysit the necklace. Nina sees the picture of her wearing it on the laptop.

Carly says she’s done with the conversation, and Bobbie hopes she doesn’t regret it. Sonny calls, and tells Carly to get to the hospital. It’s Jason.

The doctors do doctor stuff on Jason.

Monica is startled to see Sam covered in blood, and asks if she’s okay. Sam says Jason was shot. Elizabeth tells her that he was shot in the chest, and they’re stabilizing him now. An alarm goes off, but Elizabeth says that means everything is under control. Monica says that she’d thought he left that life, and Sam says that he did. Monica goes in to see him and get answers.

Griff tells Ava that the worst part of his job is moments like this. Ava feels guilty for complaining. She says that she’s lived a good life, and Marisol’s will be cut short. Griff says it’s God’s will, but he wishes that he had the power to change it. Ava takes his hand.

Dr. Bensch tells Kiki that dedication and sacrifice will get her where she wants to be. He asks if she’s up for that.

Dillon explains how he ended up taking the photos. Nelle says that she put the necklace back in the case, and it’s the last time she saw it. Nina asks if anyone was around. Michael asks what’s with questioning Nelle, and she says it’s obvious they think she stole it.

Sam tells Sonny that Jason is being stabilized. He asks how she’s doing. Sam blames herself (I do too). She says that she was terrified and unprepared, and wonders how she got to this place. Sonny says had illness that messed with her. She says she should have stayed at home or not gone in. Monica tells them that Jason is prepped for the OR. Sonny tells Sam no more about blame and regrets, just have faith. Carly arrives, and Sam tells her that Jason is hanging in there. Elizabeth says she’s going to see what she can find out. Carly says he has to live.

Sam says Carly must hate her, but Carly says that Jason will pull through, and not to blame herself; she was worried about her husband. Sam says it was stupid, but Carly says it was human, and what happened should surprise no one. Jason would lay down his life for any of them; it’s who he is. She wipes the blood from Sam’s face, saying Jason doesn’t need to see this. She’s been strong, and it’s time to give someone else a turn. They hug. I’m liking this Carly. For a while there, we weren’t on speaking terms.

Ava tells Griff that if the family needs money for treatment, she has it. He says that’s generous, and she says that she’s trying to buy her way into heaven. He asks why she always sells herself short, and she tells him, habit. He suggests she break it, and tells her that no amount of money can help, but they’ll take all the prayers they can get. He goes into the room.

Kiki tells Dr. Bensch that her sacrifices already started’ she could be in Morocco with her boyfriend, He says she’ll be giving up more than vacation time. She’ll be using skills she didn’t know she had. She says she’s up for the challenge, and he asks if she’d like to join him on his rounds. She says she’d love that, and he says he’ll let her know when. And congratulations on her important first step. I’m totally seeing that Dr. Bensch is Max from One Life to Live now.

Nina says no one is accusing Nelle, and it’s not her responsibility; they’re just trying to find it. Nelle says that she put it back where she found it. Nina asks if Dillon was there, and he says he was, but Nelle says no; she was alone with it. Michael says they seem quick to judge. Nelle tells Nina that she trusted her with her most valuable thing, Charlotte, but doesn’t trust her with this. Nina says until the necklace is found, everyone is a suspect. I think it’s the disposable assistant.

Sonny can’t get through to Michael, and asks Carly if she’s all right. She says she can’t stand it. She says that Bobbie also found out something disturbing about Nelle’s past, but it can wait until they find out if Jason will be okay.

Elizabeth asks Monica how she’s doing, and Monica says her son has a gunshot wound to the chest, how does she think? Elizabeth takes her hand.

Jason asks for Sam. She asks Carly keep him company while she cleans up. Sonny and Carly go into the ER. Carly says Sam will be right in, and Sonny asks how he’s doing. Jason is glad to see them; there are things he needs to say.

Griff asks Marisol if he can borrow her dad. In the hallway, Kiki tells Ava about how it feels like she just joined the inner circle. Ava says that she’s not surprised. Kiki has all it takes to be good doctor, and her big heart seals it. It will give her strength and compassion. She says it can make all the difference.

Dillon apologizes for not deleting the pictures, and Nelle says it’s not his fault. Michael says to take a step back and breathe. He says it’s insured, and it’s not like it’s something irreplaceable. The worst case is there will be an investigation, and someone will be on the hook for new necklace, but not Nelle.  Dillon says to cut her some slack, and Michael says he’s just saying not to be nervous. He asks when she last saw it. She says that she couldn’t resist trying it on. Dillon says he drafted her for test shots, and Nelle says she took it off after that, but she was alone; no one saw her put it back. Michael says it looks like they’re not going on the camel ride.

Nina tells Valentin this isn’t how she wanted to spend the evening. Valentin says that she can wait to call the police, but she doesn’t want to. Valentin takes the phone, and speaks to someone in French.

Carly tells Jason that Sam will be there shortly. Jason tells them to look after her. Carly tells him to focus on pulling through. He tells Sonny to watch his back, and don’t let his guard down. Sonny tells him to focus on his life, and he’ll handle the business. Jason says it’s a deal.

Sam comes in. She thanks Jason for saving her life, and he says it’s his pleasure. She tells him how much she loves him. She talks about him having surgery before, and how he chose to live for her. She says that she needs him to do it again. She can’t raise the kids without him; he’s everything to them. She asks him to promise he’ll come home, and he says that’s the plan.

Ava tells Kiki that Griff is talking to Mr. Valdez. Kiki says that Griff became a legend for not leaving Marisol’s side during the bomb scare. She’d thought Marisol was getting better, but Ava says that Griff is breaking the news that she’s dying. That’s the kind of doctor she was talking about.

Dillon says that the necklace will turn up, and Nina will owe Nelle an apology and a raise. Nelle tells Michael sorry about the camel ride, and he tells her another time. She says she should join the others. She starts to leave, and then asks if he believes her.

Nina talks to the police. She’s getting nervous that it wasn’t misplaced, but stolen. They’re sending someone to investigate. Valentin is gone, and she wonders where he is.

Jason is taken into surgery. Jason tells Sam he loves her. Everyone waits.

If Nelle is a real criminal, she’s not a very good one.

Finn asks Anna what’s so important about the diamond, Nelle believes everyone thinks she’s guilty, and Diane asks Alexis if she thinks Sonny can leave the business.

🐓 Filler show Vanderpump Rules Jax & Brittany Take Kentucky is already making me uncomfortable, with Brittany’s family pressuring Jax to marry her, and Jax pretending he’s going to. Dude, you are thirty-seven, either make poopie or get off the pot. This week’s episode centered around the kids sneaking alcohol, and Brittany’s all-knowing grandma telling them not to do it again. I’m just baffled as to why Brittany is interested in this guy, and even more why her family wants them to get married. He’s not all that. He’s not even that. I wasn’t crazy about him to begin with, and like him even less as this show goes on.

💍 90 Day Fiancé Rundown 

On Happily Ever After? Danielle disappointed me by caving on the divorce, instead of pushing for an annulment. It sounded like her lawyer discouraged it on the basis that she can’t afford to pay him three-grand. I’d actually contribute to a GoFundMe page for that one. She harassed him at his motel room later, which probably wasn’t a good idea. He’s never going to admit he used her. Chantal and Pedro went through with the wedding in the DR, but what was even more puzzling was how everyone acted like nothing had ever happened. Chantal’s parents brought Pedro’s grandmother flowers, which made it all good. Pedro’s mother and sister wept tears of joy, and there were hugs all around. Chantal said that Pedro made her happy every day, while I just sat there SMH. Pao copped to the lingerie she wore in the video, showing Russ her outfit on FaceTime. Later on, she accused him of being controlling, when he just wanted her “career” choices not to be a surprise after the fact. I’ve noticed he sighs a lot. Jorge met with Anfisa, who said they were never getting back together, so I assume she hooked a new fish on Plenty Of. I’d already mentioned that Alexei surprised Loren when she gave a talk on Tourette’s in Washington DC. Those two are couple of the year in comparison to all the rest put together.

Because it’s the embarrassment of my life that I can’t get enough of these people, I watched yet anther spin-off with The Couples Tell All, which is basically a reunion-type show, and just as awkward. Mohamad showed up at the last minute, sitting as far away from Danielle as possible. I’m still not sure what her problem is, and she obviously has one. First of all, I’ll say it again, there’s no way this guy would be interested in her in the first place. And I think they only had sex once, no doubt to seal the deal from his perspective, but should have been a tremendous red flag. Pao was her usual selfish self, at one point walking off the set because Russ isn’t thrilled about her getting nakey on camera. That guy either has the patience of a saint or is dumb as a box of rocks. This girl might care about him to a certain extent, but she’s going to do what she wants. Jorge was an emotionless slug, except for his continuous alluding to having some information about Anfisa that she doesn’t want out there. What was really weird, was that they were staying in the same hotel room, and he kept saying he had to come with her or she wouldn’t have shown up. Is he holding her hostage? I kept expecting a bombshell that never happened, but he insisted he still had things to say. Chantal and Pedro seemed genuinely normal, so I’m not sure what happened there. The best part was Loren calling out Mohamad and Anfisa for using their spouses as a way into the country, and abusing the system. She told them that they’re the type of people who give the process a stigma, and she and Alexei had to apply three times before they could get him to the US. That is pretty sad. Mohamad kept telling her not to curse, and I laughed, hoping she would curse even more. I can’t wait to see another one of these. And hopefully find out what Jorge has on Anfisa.

On Before the 90 Days, somehow, Karine showed up, and Paul got off the bridge he was sitting on and into the bed of a truck, where they had a problem communicating because neither one of them knows the other’s language. It’s so stupid. I went to Russia with a group from my Russian history class in high school. Our teacher spoke fluently, but we all knew how to say basic things like, where’s the bathroom? BTW, it was quite a trip. Enough said. They basically live in an upscale shack with no air conditioning (I’m out). Her room was very cute though Very Hello Kitty-ish. Paul was staying in a hotel, and asked Karine’s father, who’s an ex-cop, if it was okay to bring her there. I didn’t blame him for being like, what?! at first, until Paul declared his intentions honorable. He has nothing to worry about though, since Paul doesn’t want to get intimate until Karine has had an STD and pregnancy test. I’m not quite sure she understands why he doesn’t want to fool around, but it looks like next week, he’ll be breaking out the pregnancy test. This isn’t the conversation to have when you don’t know one another’s language. Again, SMH.

Cortney, the one going to Spain to meet Spanish model Antonio, continues to just vapidly fill time. She’s pretty, but if he’s really the guy in the pictures, no way is she on his level. The best part here was how she told her parents everything, and her dad drove her to the airport. My dad would have locked me in my room until I was forty-five. Sean brought about a million pairs of cute underwear to Haiti, giving it to  Abby, who sells it online. Okay.

What held my attention most was Darcey and Jesse in Amsterdam. Apparently, fireworks happened and their souls collided on their first night together. Meeting his parents (mom and stepdad) was a different atmosphere altogether. First came the house straight out of fairyland. All overgrown cottagey, with bright artwork everywhere. Stuff hanging from trees, stuff hanging on trees, even mosaics on the ground. I wanted to spend serious time there, gawking. Although my first thought was, what do they do when it rains? Darcey of course wore her six-inch stilettos. Jesse’s mom was a trip – all crazy braids and wearing an outfit she probably designed – she’s the artist in the family. The stepdad, who Jesse warned Darcey about, saying he was outspoken and abrasive, was a double-trip, looking like the Mikado in The Mikado, but with piercings. He was also very loud. Everything was relatively cool, even when they talked about Jesse moving to the US, until Darcey brought up the topic of marriage over soup, and stepdad Dave asked her if she was out of her f-ing mind. He also said something about Darcey not being in Jesse’s league, which did not sit well with her, as it wouldn’t with most people. But instead of actually discussing it, Darcey was passive/aggressive, pouted, and sulked on the ride back. I think she’s going to sink her own boat with that behavior. She’s way insecure. I even noticed how she wears a lot of scarves or some such thing around her neck, I believe to hide her age. The problem here isn’t the age gap, but the emotional maturity gap. I’ll be surprised if these two make it to the 90 days.

Amsterdam2

Amsterdam

Amsterdam