Season 2 Discussion

[bichonblitz]

While I'm on the Pao hate train today, (I know I can't seem to stop but she really gets to me), I have never, ever seen such shady, sleazy, gross, disgusting photographer's in my life. What gutter is she picking these losers from? Pick your top up, pull your shorts up, lets see that booty, oh my god I can't believe Russ didn't haul off and punch that guys lights out. And the one from last week, too.  I love ya, Russ, and I'm pulling for you,  but you need to man the fuck up! Better yet, leave that bitch in the gutter with her photographer's.....

[seacliffsal]

Okay, I decided to look up apartment rent in the DR along with the exchange rate.  Right now, the exchange rate is about 47 Dominican Pesos to 1 U.S. dollar.  According to Craig's List, apartments seem to be going for 600 Dominican Pesos and up.  I have no idea where mom and sister live, but the rents really are far below what they would go for in the U.S.  It's not inconceivable that he's sending $100 to $200 a month and that has made a tremendous difference.  Family Chantel really has no idea how much money he is sending and that rents really are low in the DR.  Part of the problem is that Family Chantel doesn't listen to what Pedro is saying as their minds are already made up and they are intent on making their points, not respond to his.  However, both families share blame in this fiasco.  Interestingly Chantel kept saying that all her family wanted to do at the grandmother's house was talk to Pedro first.  Um, no-he went to the van to talk to them and all Mother Chantel kept saying was "we'll talk at the hotel."  I also noticed that during Chantel and Pedro's argument that Chantel wanted to leave as soon as she wasn't getting her way in their argument and that Pedro was trying to get her to listen to his perspective.  A previous poster mentioned that Chantel is spoiled and entitled and I so agree with that observation.

Loren has such a need to be the center of all attention that it is so annoying.  She doesn't seem to understand that people can't just get days off at the drop of a hat.  I think the charity made a mistake in taking her on as a featured spokesperson.

Although Mo may respond in anger during the court hearing, I don't even think it will get to that point as Danielle will be presenting her evidence first and will get angry when the judge doesn't immediately just say 'you're right' and order Mo's immediate deportation.  So, her anger will make an appearance before Mo's.  I stand behind an earlier comment I made-they so deserve each other.  I think that they should be forced to stay married to each other just to punish both of them for their roles in this fiasco of a "marriage."

Russ and Pao-first of all, I think he was totally wrong in his argument that by taking the Miami job he would hurt his career as at this point, he doesn't have a career.  Also, what is worse-having an engineering job that demonstrates his desire to work, or remaining unemployed because he couldn't get the exact job he wanted?  That seems to be a growing expectation in the U.S.-people should only take a job that is their "dream" job rather than working their way into their preferred occupation.  Pao just doesn't get the humor in her situation-yes, people are telling her how great she looks and how they would like to work with her again-but she is paying those people to take her photos; of course they are going to say that!  Pao, there is a HUGE difference between those you are paying to take your photos and those who pay you to take your photo (oh, that's right-nobody has paid you to take your photo).

Jorge and Anfisa-they are both taking advantage of the other.  However, it is telling that Anfisa is now actually spending her own money.  Jorge made so many statements about his lifestyle that are just false.  She may stay with him, but it will be a lifetime of unfulfilled promises by Jorge.

[booboopbedoo]

1 hour ago, brillia79 said:

I thought she was saying "...punto." as in period end of sentence.  or maybe not.  Still, she does not have the intelligence to spar with a more creative vocabulary.

Puta- means Whore.

Why does Pedro's Sis speak better English than he does?

all he can say is " You don respek my culture" over and over. How about respeking Chantel's culture? How about taking care of her and  doing the books and deciding what goes where. 

[Pepper Mostly]

33 minutes ago, Chickabiddy said:

Chantel and family are not trying to find a middle ground. They want Pedro to get with the program and do what they want. Accusing someone of fraud and financial abuse is no way to build bridges and form strong bonds. It's a flat out declaration of war. Frankly, I would be an asshole, too if someone talked to me like that or accused my son of behaving in such a way.

Agreed. I can only imagine if my son brought home a whiny acquisitive materialistic skank like Chantel, along with her rude supercilious judgmental parents, who then called me a money grubber and my son a grifter. Fur would fly.

Chantel's parents look down on Pedro and his family. The worst thing is, Chantel does too. How can she stay married to him when she thinks so little of him?

[booboopbedoo]

Just now, bichonblitz said:

While I'm on the Pao hate train today, (I know I can't seem to stop but she really gets to me), I have never, ever seen such shady, sleazy, gross, disgusting photographer's in my life. What gutter is she picking these losers from? Pick your top up, pull your shorts up, lets see that booty, oh my god I can't believe Russ didn't haul off and punch that guys lights out. And the one from last week, too.  I love ya, Russ, and I'm pulling for you,  but you need to man the fuck up! Better yet, leave that bitch in the gutter with her photographer's.....

I agree!!! Plus did you see the cellulite on her left leg?

Your Carreer is over before it started Mi Amour! Self absorbed Cow.

2 minutes ago, seacliffsal said:

Loren has such a need to be the center of all attention that it is so annoying.  She doesn't seem to understand that people can't just get days off at the drop of a hat.  I think the charity made a mistake in taking her on as a featured spokesperson.

Is she getting paid for this?

Please move! The wallpaper makes me queasy!! 

17 minutes ago, poeticlicensed said:

And I assume that Loren has been under the care of doctors her whole life. Maybe her parents didn't know but I have a hard time believing that NONE of her doctors, from her primary, to her gynecologist, to any specialists would not have even mentioned it as she got older and closer to childbearing age. 

Plus her Dad said they didnt have Internet??????? I have used a computer at work for over 30 years.

[jackjill89]

12 hours ago, Schadenfreulein said:

Who the heck still calls their father "Daddy" at whatever age Chantel is? That was gag-inducing. 

Hmmm... I did sometimes. No one gagged that I was aware of. 

[Drogo]

8 minutes ago, booboopbedoo said:

Plus her Dad said they didnt have Internet??????? I have used a computer at work for over 30 years.

Healthscape (now WebMD) has been around for a good 20 years. 

[jackjill89]

24 minutes ago, Gigglepuff said:

Many on this show have annoying voices/manners of speaking! Loren's whine, Danielle's lazy speech pattern, Chantel and her clenched jaw speaking, and Chantel's mother's condescending tones (stuuupid Ammeeerricans). 

I can't stand listening and watching Chantel speak. It drives me absolutely insane. 

The other thing that drives me insane is all the circular conversations with Chantel and Pedro and Danielle and Mohammed. No one makes sense. I don't know if it is editing, or they are truly that horrible conversationalists, but I feel like I'm getting half the story and that no one says what they really mean and I just want to reach through the TV and slap them. 

[VioletNevermind]

50 minutes ago, Pepper Mostly said:

Those photos were embarrassing. Plumbing company calendar stuff. She's living in a fool's paradise if she thinks her "career" is going to blossom.

HAHA, yes!  And the photos were taken by a guy who goes by "Mike Ohrangutang," no less.  Pao and her 30-year-old booty need to get a damn job and leave the T&A shots for a side hustle.  I used to truly like her, but she's showing her true colors.  She is six months from suggesting to Russ that they start shopping videos of their lovemaking to Vivid Entertainment.  (But it will be "classy!")

Edited July 31, 2017 by SuzyLee

[magemaud]

23 minutes ago, Gigglepuff said:

Many on this show have annoying voices/manners of speaking! Loren's whine, Danielle's lazy speech pattern, Chantel and her clenched jaw speaking, and Chantel's mother's condescending tones (stuuupid Ammeeerricans). 

Add to that Chantel's mother's slow, monotonous speech like she's talking to a child while staring, unblinking, into the camera. Aren't cheerleading coaches usually more animated?  

[Quof]

Quote

The other thing that drives me insane is all the circular conversations with Chantel and Pedro and Danielle and Mohammed. No one makes sense. I don't know if it is editing, or they are truly that horrible conversationalists

It's scripted, and you can see the wheels turn as they try to remember their lines.

[Natalie68]

14 hours ago, Miss Chevious said:

Lexi/Loren: She needs to put on her big girl panties and go to her speaking engagements by herself. She accepted a job that requires traveling and needs to realize Lexi works too and can't just take days off at a moment's notice. And Loren's Dad was shifty, he knows the internet was available a few years ago.

Anfisa/Jorge: Anfisa cracks me up. Her priorities are screwed up. She's telling us she's low on funds, yet gets expensive lip fillers and Botox treatments. And for what? She sits alone in a dingy apartment all day. 

Chantel/Pedro: First of all, stop calling it a wedding. You're already married, you already had a wedding. Call it a vow renewal, a re-commitment ceremony, a reception or whatever. This ain't your first rodeo. And why was River even there at the man to man lunch? He didn't add anything to the discussion, he made things worse. And why is FamilyChantel so hung up on the number of bedrooms FamilyPedro has?  Pedro just can't win with them.

Dani/Mo: How dumb of Dani to go to Mo's friend and expect him to sign an affidavit for her. Tom was right to tell her to focus her energy on her daughters. Both Dani and Mo spent way too much time pleading their case on social media. I think that lawyer was pissed Mo wasn't using him as counsel in the courtroom. That whole setup was odd. What lawyer doles out advice for free. Oh wait, one that wants the free TV exposure. Watching Dani's phony meltdown was just plain crazy. She'd take him back in a second.

Russ/Pao: Your wife's "career" is doing sleazy shots for men's magazines or borderline porn modeling. She likes to flaunt her body. If you can't handle it, go back to OK. 

I would like someone to take their phones/computer/whatever they use for soshul meedia, chuck them, and send them BOTH to Tunisia.  Give her daughters new names, a bit of start over coin and put them in the Witness Protection Program so Danielle cannot find them when she worms her way back to the US.  As a tax payer I would wholeheartedly support that action.

The plastic surgeon saw an easy mark in Anfisa and upsold her like no ones business.   Her grandmother seems very warm (snark).  Now I know where Anfisa gets her sparkling personality.

Quickly losing interest in Loren/Alexei.  Just don't care.

Russ/Pao:  care even less than Alexei/Loren

Chantal/Pedro:  Had to catch a minute because I ff so much of this show I was no longer watching the recording.  They are all horrible but if I had to choose the most horrible to horrible?  I am going with Chantal.  

[Schadenfreulein]

38 minutes ago, Cherrio said:

Now, here is something I would send to sister Pedro.

 

And you win the Internet today!

[Adeejay]

8 hours ago, Pepper Mostly said:

Agreed. I can only imagine if my son brought home a whiny acquisitive materialistic skank like Chantel, along with her rude supercilious judgmental parents, who then called me a money grubber and my son a grifter. Fur would fly.

If it wasn’t for that “whiny, materialistic skank  from Gringoland”, Pedro, MotherPedro and Sister Pedro would still be living in a one bedroom apartment in a dicey neighborhood, devoid of new computer and flat screen TV.  I hope when his temporary green card expires in two years, she sends him packing.  Let’s see how they will feel about that. 

Edited August 1, 2017 by Adeejay

[Chickabiddy]

Just now, Adeejay said:

If it wasn’t for that “whiny, materialistic skank  from Gringoland”, Pedro, MotherPedro and Sister Pedro would still be living in a one bedroom apartment in a dicey neighborhood, devoid of new computer and flat screen TV.  I hope when his temporary green card expires in two years, she sends him packing.  Let’s see how they’d feel about that. 

And if it weren't for Pedro, Chantal would not get to be on the TV and have cash for a new car, $3,500 ring, a bachelorette party, a second wedding, a fine boy toy to show to her friends, and outlet for her parents to show off how rich and fantabulous they are, etc. Turns out what is good for the gander is also good for the goose.

[JoBeth70]

Did I hear this correctly: Family Chantel thinks Pedro's mother has a three bedroom apartment instead of two because he is going to come home and live with them after Chantel's bank account is milked dry? Anyone else catch that?

[Natalie68]

2 hours ago, Ivanova said:

It looks like Pedro doesn't have a father, and hasn't had for a few years at least (no father in the graduation photo). Maybe he feels he has to assume the "male provider" role in the family.

I think that is probably it.  I work at a university and I know a lot of young men who worked while in school and sent their paychecks to their parents in this country (the families immigrated here) as well as many who quit school because they were the oldest child and had to move home to support the family.  It is the way it is done in cultures other than ours.  I also knew a girl of middle eastern descent who went to school here, her mother went to school in LA., and she had to go home every weekend to do her mothers homework because the mom didn't speak English.  The mother graduated but the daughter didn't (at least on time) because doing moms work took time away from her own studies.  My mother in law is from Poland and sends money to her relatives regularly for support and to take care of her parents graves.

Edited July 31, 2017 by Natalie68

[NotEatingKale]

1 hour ago, Chickabiddy said:

I really find it the height of American hubris and arrogance to pronounce that people in the third world don't need flat irons or large screen tvs. I mean, who are we to decide what other people deserve? Are they somehow  so much lower that they are forbidden form having their own wants and desires?

Very true.

My mother is originally from the Philippines and came to Canada in 1990 as a nanny. She sent most of her paycheck back home to help take care of the family. There are millions of Filipinos around the globe doing the exact same thing and remittances to the Philippines today account for 10% of its GDP. 

However, when my mother married, the remittances slowed. She had a new life to build - a house, a baby, a secure future with savings and investments... those things cost money, and Pedro and Chantel won't be able to have that if Pedro is sending $500+ (this is my guess) back home every month. The family in the DR is getting used to Pedro's TLC money. but that gravy train won't last forever. 

From my experience with my family in the Philippines, they view North America as one big honey pot. They think we're all stinking rich. I've gotten asked "Can you buy me an iPhone?" and "Can you buy me an Xbox?" so many times it'll make your head spin. It's hard to explain to them that I'm just middle class, even though I have a car and live in a house (with hot water! and a washer and dryer! and a dishwasher! these ARE luxuries to people in developing countries). I wouldn't be surprised if Pedro's family had that same outlook too. 

Pedro needs to focus on building a new life with Chantel in Atlanta. It's admirable that he wants to take care of his family, but he can't afford to at the level he's at right now. Once they're established with their own home, have savings in the bank, and have well-paying jobs, THEN they can talk about buying luxuries such as big screen TVs, laptops, etc. for his family in the DR. Sending over toiletries, food, and other necessities is fine because those are relatively affordable expenses, but Chantel and Pedro are NOT rich and should not be gifting big ticket items IMO. It's just irresponsible. 

He shouldn't even be buying himself $2,500 video games set (like wtf??? Isn't he a dishwasher? Doesn't he know that this show will eventually end or they'll be replaced by a newer and better 90DF couple?) And Chantel with her $3,000 ring? TBH both are them are pretty bad financially. 

[Pepper Mostly]

11 minutes ago, JoBeth70 said:

Did I hear this correctly: Family Chantel thinks Pedro's mother has a three bedroom apartment instead of two because he is going to come home and live with them after Chantel's bank account is milked dry? Anyone else catch that?

I did. And Chantel is the one who said it, if I recall. She despises her husband and thinks he's fleecing her. How can it be possible that she wants to stay married to him?

[Natalie68]

55 minutes ago, seacliffsal said:

Okay, I decided to look up apartment rent in the DR along with the exchange rate.  Right now, the exchange rate is about 47 Dominican Pesos to 1 U.S. dollar.  According to Craig's List, apartments seem to be going for 600 Dominican Pesos and up.  I have no idea where mom and sister live, but the rents really are far below what they would go for in the U.S.  It's not inconceivable that he's sending $100 to $200 a month and that has made a tremendous difference.  Family Chantel really has no idea how much money he is sending and that rents really are low in the DR.  Part of the problem is that Family Chantel doesn't listen to what Pedro is saying as their minds are already made up and they are intent on making their points, not respond to his.  However, both families share blame in this fiasco.  Interestingly Chantel kept saying that all her family wanted to do at the grandmother's house was talk to Pedro first.  Um, no-he went to the van to talk to them and all Mother Chantel kept saying was "we'll talk at the hotel."  I also noticed that during Chantel and Pedro's argument that Chantel wanted to leave as soon as she wasn't getting her way in their argument and that Pedro was trying to get her to listen to his perspective.  A previous poster mentioned that Chantel is spoiled and entitled and I so agree with that observation.

Loren has such a need to be the center of all attention that it is so annoying.  She doesn't seem to understand that people can't just get days off at the drop of a hat.  I think the charity made a mistake in taking her on as a featured spokesperson.

Although Mo may respond in anger during the court hearing, I don't even think it will get to that point as Danielle will be presenting her evidence first and will get angry when the judge doesn't immediately just say 'you're right' and order Mo's immediate deportation.  So, her anger will make an appearance before Mo's.  I stand behind an earlier comment I made-they so deserve each other.  I think that they should be forced to stay married to each other just to punish both of them for their roles in this fiasco of a "marriage."

Russ and Pao-first of all, I think he was totally wrong in his argument that by taking the Miami job he would hurt his career as at this point, he doesn't have a career.  Also, what is worse-having an engineering job that demonstrates his desire to work, or remaining unemployed because he couldn't get the exact job he wanted?  That seems to be a growing expectation in the U.S.-people should only take a job that is their "dream" job rather than working their way into their preferred occupation.  Pao just doesn't get the humor in her situation-yes, people are telling her how great she looks and how they would like to work with her again-but she is paying those people to take her photos; of course they are going to say that!  Pao, there is a HUGE difference between those you are paying to take your photos and those who pay you to take your photo (oh, that's right-nobody has paid you to take your photo).

Jorge and Anfisa-they are both taking advantage of the other.  However, it is telling that Anfisa is now actually spending her own money.  Jorge made so many statements about his lifestyle that are just false.  She may stay with him, but it will be a lifetime of unfulfilled promises by Jorge.

I was about to do the same thing.  Thank you!!!

[Adeejay]

19 minutes ago, Chickabiddy said:

And if it weren't for Pedro, Chantal would not get to be on the TV and have cash for a new car, $3,500 ring, a bachelorette party, a second wedding, a fine boy toy to show to her friends, and outlet for her parents to show off how rich and fantabulous they are, etc. Turns out what is good for the gander is also good for the goose.

Thank goodness she got something.  Seems most of the cash is going to her greedy in-laws in DR.  I am glad her parents insisted that she get a pre-nup.  

Edited July 31, 2017 by Adeejay

[Chickabiddy]

4 minutes ago, Adeejay said:

Thank goodness she got something.  Seems most of the cash is going to her greedy in-laws in DR.  

But, that's just it. They are both getting something out it. And as for the bold part., we don't really know how much is going o the DR, do we? Not one these jerks will communicate with facts or cold hard figures. But from what was posted upthread, that rent could be costing 200 bucks a month. That is very modest. And if Pedro is working two jobs, than 200 bucks seems reasonable. Chantel couldn't have been so dumb to think that she was marrying a titan of industry who could keep her in the lap of luxury to which she thinks she is entitled to, but no one else.

[islandgal140]

I tend to like Pedro and think he does love Chantal but he was bordering on gaslighting his wife this episode. The why you didn't call me when he just admitted his phone was dead and all that you need to find a perfect husband jazz would've had my ass going to DR jail if I was Chantal. 

1 hour ago, bichonblitz said:

While I'm on the Pao hate train today, (I know I can't seem to stop but she really gets to me), I have never, ever seen such shady, sleazy, gross, disgusting photographer's in my life. What gutter is she picking these losers from? Pick your top up, pull your shorts up, lets see that booty, oh my god I can't believe Russ didn't haul off and punch that guys lights out. And the one from last week, too.  I love ya, Russ, and I'm pulling for you,  but you need to man the fuck up! Better yet, leave that bitch in the gutter with her photographer's.....

And apparently according to the wife/assistant/makeup artist, the shoot was hampered by Russ's presence and would have been even "sexier" if he hadn't been there.  I hazard to guess what that means.  Underboob leaning against a neighbor's wrought iron fence and ass shots standing on a stool under a tree by the sidewalk are hard to top (sarcasm). 

Pao needs to just say her agent is IG and be done with it. 

Loren went from not even wanting to mention having a condition to not shutting the hell up about it. 

Edited July 31, 2017 by islandgal140

[Chickabiddy]

11 minutes ago, NotEatingKale said:

Very true.

My mother is originally from the Philippines and came to Canada in 1990 as a nanny. She sent most of her paycheck back home to help take care of the family. There are millions of Filipinos around the globe doing the exact same thing and remittances to the Philippines today account for 10% of its GDP. 

However, when my mother married, the remittances slowed. She had a new life to build - a house, a baby, a secure future with savings and investments... those things cost money, and Pedro and Chantel won't be able to have that if Pedro is sending $500+ (this is my guess) back home every month. The family in the DR is getting used to Pedro's TLC money. but that gravy train won't last forever. 

From my experience with my family in the Philippines, they view North America as one big honey pot. They think we're all stinking rich. I've gotten asked "Can you buy me an iPhone?" and "Can you buy me an Xbox?" so many times it'll make your head spin. It's hard to explain to them that I'm just middle class, even though I have a car and live in a house (with hot water! and a washer and dryer! and a dishwasher! these ARE luxuries to people in developing countries). I wouldn't be surprised if Pedro's family had that same outlook too. 

Pedro needs to focus on building a new life with Chantel in Atlanta. It's admirable that he wants to take care of his family, but he can't afford to at the level he's at right now. Once they're established with their own home, have savings in the bank, and have well-paying jobs, THEN they can talk about buying luxuries such as big screen TVs, laptops, etc. for his family in the DR. Sending over toiletries, food, and other necessities is fine because those are relatively affordable expenses, but Chantel and Pedro are NOT rich and should not be gifting big ticket items IMO. It's just irresponsible. 

He shouldn't even be buying himself $2,500 video games set (like wtf??? Isn't he a dishwasher? Doesn't he know that this show will eventually end or they'll be replaced by a newer and better 90DF couple?) And Chantel with her $3,000 ring? TBH both are them are pretty bad financially. 

I agree with all that, but let's keep in mind that Pedro has only been in the US a year. The trip home was the first big trip home. Everyone splashes out for the first trip home. When my husband and I went back to Germany after our wedding, it was a big splash out breakfast and different parties to introduce the new couple to the neighborhood. It was great. All my subsequent trips were like "Oh, you again, hey." Point it, give him a year or two to send some swag home. They don't have kids. He is working two jobs and he does have some extra $$ from the show. The same way Chatnel does. But, the difference is that she  thinks it's American and "normal" to buy a new car and a $3,500 ring. It's noramal for her to get what she wants, but financiual abuse for Pedro to get what he wants if he wants it to go to his family.

[lucy711]

I rarely comment, but I had to get involved after this mess of an episode.

First of all, I think Chantel and Pedro are both at fault for their misunderstanding.  And they both need to tell their families to get out of the picture.  It ain't cool for Chantel's parents to act all high and mighty, but if I was Pedro, I would have called out my mom on the little stunt she pulled with the chicken feet.

Yes, Pedro's culture needs to be respected. He should give gifts and things like toiletries that are much more expensive in the DR.  However, if Chantel is in school, then it isn't unreasonable for her to expect Pedro to be spending the bulk of his earnings on her and their joint expenses.  That's what you do when you are married.  I made more than my husband for the longest time and helped pay off his college loans.  Now he makes much more and I am a SAHM.   If Pedro is sending a significant part of his earnings to support his able-bodied mom and sister, I'd be pissed, too.  (Does sister Pedro even have a job?)  Pedro can inform mama that he'll do what he can for now but that his ability to help will be limited.  Of course, someone needs to tell Chantel that she isn't entitled to a 3K ring.

The major problem here is Pedro and Chantel needed to have a serious discussion and settle all of this PRIOR to the wedding.  They have cultural differences.  Fine.  Talk about it.  And it doesn't help that Chantel has the maturity of a 12 year old.

[Mr. Miner]

2 hours ago, Former Nun said:

Aren't they?      Grasping, greedy UNEMPLOYED wenches...but I agree, it's probably not the father's place to say it.  That's why WE are here!

Pedro is a boneheaded dumbass that don't see their side of the problem at all, and he called them close minded. Pedro sucks!

[Landlord]

1 hour ago, booboopbedoo said:

I agree!!! Plus did you see the cellulite on her left leg?

Your Carreer is over before it started Mi Amour! Self absorbed Cow.

Is she getting paid for this?

Please move! The wallpaper makes me queasy!! 

Plus her Dad said they didnt have Internet??????? I have used a computer at work for over 30 years.

For the first one, I did notice. Praise the lord for Photoshop. I also notice while she was talking to Russ in that white turtleneck and no makeup that she isn't pretty in the face. I had a fleeing thought for ANTM girls riddled with acne (Hell if I could remember any of their names or cycles), but at least they had the age/body and ''real'' ambition for it to do more than just sleazy shots on top of step-stools.

As for the second, I am roughly Loren's age, so I will assume our parents are the same age as well. My father would not have known his way around a computer to save his life, I was once surprised to see him using MS Paint to distract my then 4-5 years old little sister. So I will give Loren Dad the benefit of the doubt about the computer/internet thing. Maybe her parents are as technology impaired as my father was.

[Palomar]

2 hours ago, Granny58 said:

Not sure that is America hubris as much as it is practicality.   I 100% understand helping family members who are struggling.  When my dad was a young, single military man he sent money home every month to his parents - a coal miner and a housewife.  It certainly was never enough for luxury items (of the day) but would have gone for actual living expenses.  Who would begrudge that?  Nobody.   He did stop when he got married as he then had a spouse to support...and his parents expected that.  My family isn't of Caribbean or Hispanic heritage so I realize cultures vary, and it does seem Pedro is "the man of the house," but when you have the responsibility of a spouse (and possibly children), then making sure mom and family have essentials is okay.  Making sure they have luxuries is acceptable only when there is plenty of money in the first place.  

That's the thing.  Helping is very understandable but "supporting" is another thing.  When you are paying someone's rent every month, it sounds more like supporting than helping out. Do we even know if Pedro contributes anything to his own household?  Is he forking over his entire paycheck to his family?  Not knowing the details makes it harder to judge.

Also, what gets me the most is the entitlement that Pedro's mother and (worst of all) sister are throwing out there.  They should be thankful for any help they are getting but not expect it and bitch about the pre-nup..  Sorry sista, you might want to think about finding a job yourself and helping your mother out like Pedro is doing. 

[Pepper Mostly]

Do we know that Pedro's mother and sister are not employed? Or is that being assumed?

[yellowbutacup]

15 hours ago, kitkat68 said:

Does anyone else play the drinking game "Take a shot whenever Danielle says "Social Media"?

Or,

If you have to get up early the next morning, "Take a shot whenever Anfisa smiles"?

Yes!  We usually use "social media" or "annulment" with Danielle.  Or when Pedro calls Chantel "Pinky," lol.  

[funky-rat]

I have some sympathy for Russ.  My husband just found himself unemployed under very shady circumstances.  His former employer is making it hard for him to get unemployment, and we're out of money.  He's been pounding the pavement - put in over 10 applications in 2 weeks - but no one is calling.  He interviewed at a factory doing line work, but they never called him back.  Pay was less than half of what he used to make, and he's considered overqualified (this was mentioned).  He's registered with job seeking sites, but doesn't really want to return to the industry he last worked in (and where he has the most experience), nor does he want to return to commissioned sales.  People say "Well, just go work in a factory or warehouse somewhere".  It's not that easy.  Even warehouses nowadays want someone with experience.  There's a job he can most likely get easily, but it's not a good situation.  No benefits, and pay is by the day, not by the hour, so if you work the projected 12-15 hours per day, then you're making less than minimum wage.  Factor in the 30 minute commute each way on his beater car that may not be able to take that, and it's simply not worth the time and the constant grind of being under time constraints.  We considered filing for disability (he has chronic depression) but we'd have to cash out his 401K to live for the next year or so while those wheels turn extremely slowly.  Russ is in a no-win, and we are too right now.  And it extremely sucks.  If I have one more person tell me "But the job market is so good right now...."  Yeah, if you want to work part time, or are in the healthcare field.  Otherwise, forget it.

[mamadrama]

5 hours ago, MrSmith said:

I understand why you're taking umbrage. I hope you won't take things too personally, though. I think most of us realize that the people on this show are the stupid people who haven't been in these relationships very long and have done none of the expensive/difficult things you and your husband did. The people on this show are not representative of the majority of people in relationships where a K1 visa is needed. Just like the HoWives aren't representative of women in this country (overall) or rich women (in particular).

I've been a part of Previously TV since it was TWoP and have made dozens of comments about the cast members of this particular show-comments that have nothing to do with the K1 visa process. I mostly snark about the fools along with everyone else here on here. But yes, when general comments about the process are made, comments that lump all of us together and don't differentiate between the cast members and us "ordinary" folks, my back goes up. Unfortunately, many people here were not familiar with the K1 visa process (nor was I, until I went through it myself) and this show was their first introduction to it. We've had many discussions about that particular subject matter in the past. As someone who can answer questions about that process, and explain the differences, I feel it necessary. When the show first aired, for example, quite a few people didn't realize that the visa and 90-day period were not intended as a "getting to know you" phase, as the show and original voice over implied. 

[Latenites]

4 hours ago, brillia79 said:

Neither did the bitch who called her a puta, so there's that.

I know we're heavily invested in railing against the "ugly Americans" stereotype, but let's call a spade a spade. Pedro's family is no prize. If they're mad about a prenup, fuck them double. Everyone should have one. People with less income have more to lose in terms of standard of living in the event of a divorce.

Yes! The post nup was not any of family Pedro's Damn business. And I don't begrudge them any luxuries, but most of us "stupid Americans" work our asses off to get these things and his able bodied family does not deserve a free ride. MHI.

[Mrs. Hanson]

1 hour ago, Latenites said:

Yes! The post nup was not any of family Pedro's Damn business. And I don't begrudge them any luxuries, but most of us "stupid Americans" work our asses off to get these things and his able bodied family does not deserve a free ride. MHI.

Yep!!!  That post nup (or any prenup or anything to do with money) is NO ONE'S business.  Both families are horrid and way overinvolved.

[MrSmith]

2 hours ago, mamadrama said:

I've been a part of Previously TV since it was TWoP and have made dozens of comments about the cast members of this particular show-comments that have nothing to do with the K1 visa process. I mostly snark about the fools along with everyone else here on here. But yes, when general comments about the process are made, comments that lump all of us together and don't differentiate between the cast members and us "ordinary" folks, my back goes up. Unfortunately, many people here were not familiar with the K1 visa process (nor was I, until I went through it myself) and this show was their first introduction to it. We've had many discussions about that particular subject matter in the past. As someone who can answer questions about that process, and explain the differences, I feel it necessary. When the show first aired, for example, quite a few people didn't realize that the visa and 90-day period were not intended as a "getting to know you" phase, as the show and original voice over implied. 

I shouldn't be, but I am surprised (and greatly disappointed) that people actually had to be told that the 90 day period was not intended as a "getting to know  you" phase. I mean, really? It's right there in the name: "fiancee visa". Other than MAFS, how many people actually get engaged to people they do not know? Since the number is basically zero (or close enough that the difference doesn't matter), why would people think you would be intended to use a "fiancee visa" to get to know the person they're considering marrying? Ugh. I'll stop now before I really get myself wound up.

[magemaud]

I wonder if Mama Pedro will be hosting a 2nd Wedding rehearsal dinner, and if so, what will be on the menu...

[Former Nun]

3 hours ago, Pepper Mostly said:

Do we know that Pedro's mother and sister are not employed? Or is that being assumed?

Wasn't that mentioned in the first season...that Chantel can't understand why TWO of Pedro's sisters work, have a nice place to live, and support themselves--yet one sister and his mother do not?  

[Former Nun]

2 hours ago, funky-rat said:

I have some sympathy for Russ.  My husband just found himself unemployed under very shady circumstances.  His former employer is making it hard for him to get unemployment, and we're out of money.  He's been pounding the pavement - put in over 10 applications in 2 weeks - but no one is calling.  He interviewed at a factory doing line work, but they never called him back.  Pay was less than half of what he used to make, and he's considered overqualified (this was mentioned).  He's registered with job seeking sites, but doesn't really want to return to the industry he last worked in (and where he has the most experience), nor does he want to return to commissioned sales.  People say "Well, just go work in a factory or warehouse somewhere".  It's not that easy.  Even warehouses nowadays want someone with experience.  There's a job he can most likely get easily, but it's not a good situation.  No benefits, and pay is by the day, not by the hour, so if you work the projected 12-15 hours per day, then you're making less than minimum wage.  Factor in the 30 minute commute each way on his beater car that may not be able to take that, and it's simply not worth the time and the constant grind of being under time constraints.  We considered filing for disability (he has chronic depression) but we'd have to cash out his 401K to live for the next year or so while those wheels turn extremely slowly.  Russ is in a no-win, and we are too right now.  And it extremely sucks.  If I have one more person tell me "But the job market is so good right now...."  Yeah, if you want to work part time, or are in the healthcare field.  Otherwise, forget it.

But by this time, wasn't Russ offered a job...within his education but outside his field?  The pay was much less than he made previously...after (probably) some years on the job.  The offer comes with benefits.  The most important thing to me was that Russ had been out of work FOR A YEAR.  It's often said that it's easier to find a different job if one is employed.

[b2H]

6 hours ago, Ivanova said:

It looks like Pedro doesn't have a father, and hasn't had for a few years at least (no father in the graduation photo). Maybe he feels he has to assume the "male provider" role in the family.

I also took that to mean, he doesn't understand the role of husband vs. son, having had no role model.

[Quilty]

Whenever Russ starts any conversation about real life Pao basically tells him to shut up and takes over with all her nonsense talk. Russ just seems exhausted. She will suck the life out of him (not in a good way).

Her hair looks horrible!

[cereality]

In addition to everything you all have said -- I think this episode proved (to me) that if you're going to marry someone you barely know from another country in 90 days, it's more likely to work out if they are from the same social class/education level as you.

Part of why Family Chantel thinks so little of Pedro is bc he's a poor resort worker who grew up in the DR countryside. In their mind, he got to come to the US only bc of their daughter and thus he must kiss her ring and theirs for the rest of his life. Yet he doesn't do that and dares to have his own opinion. And then it burned them up to see that a poor resort worker's family was living in a nice 3 bedroom apartment -- again in their opinion bc of THEIR daughter and thus the family needs to kiss their ring, and then when the family took a kiss my @$$ attitude, they went nuts. There is NO way they'd talk down to Pedro the way they do or act like that with his family (not getting out of the car etc.) if he was a well to do Caribbean guy who owned the resort, instead of worked as a waiter. He'd just be "worth more" to them EVEN IF he was still sending money back home.

Also -- looked it up -- a 1 bedroom apartment in a nice part of Santo Domingo goes for $200/month. 3 bedroom = $500/month. Min wage in ATL right now is $10/hr; he works 2 jobs -- so if he's working 60 hrs/wk, he's making $2400/month -- more like $1900 gross and it looks like he's sending home about 1/4 of that monthly.

Russ -- he married a party girl and "model" and party girl has NO clue about professional occupations. Oil & gas is a very specific field and people who go into it want to do that and nothing else for their career -- despite the ups and downs. LinkedIn lists his last job as Drilling Engineer at Devon which pays 125-145k. Yeah -- I can see why he isn't jumping for joy to take a 60k job in a different field of engineering just to be in Miami. Oil & gas is a small frat and as unfair as it is -- companies don't want to hear -- oh I was doing something else for the money but I really want to do oil again. You ARE expected to find a way to survive the downturns while staying connected to the industry.  Lots of guys (while young enough) if they can't get engineering jobs, they try to get pipeline jobs and do the actual drilling for a while so that they can pitch to companies that they have engineering and operational drilling experience. Of course the only drilling happening now is in West Texas and in Colorado -- honestly Russ should see if he can get a job there and just go. These explanations will be lost on his "model" wife -- but those guys work a few weeks on/few weeks off so I'm Mi Amor would be fine getting her party on without him dragging her down for weeks at a time and then they could get together again for sex. And I'm positive Mi Amor knows TONS of professional men who used to earn 150k who'd be thrilled to make $1/day selling empanadas on the street.

[JocelynCavanaugh]

9 hours ago, Lesia said:

I thought she was saying "...punto." as in period end of sentence.  or maybe not.  Still, she does not have the intelligence to spar with a more creative vocabulary.

The subtitles definitely said "period," and her inflection made it seem more like that as well, but when Chantel heard it as "puta" the sister just went along with it because she was probably thinking that anyway. (Also: takes one to know one.) 

Russ should consider West Texas. If Paola can't find Hispanic community in Odessa then she's just not trying... or she's a snot who thinks she's too good for Mexicans and they're not "spicy" enough for her stupid lifestyle. Either way, Pao sucks. 

[cereality]

2 minutes ago, JocelynCavanaugh said:

The subtitles definitely said "period," and her inflection made it seem more like that as well, but when Chantel heard it as "puta" the sister just went along with it because she was probably thinking that anyway. (Also: takes one to know one.) 

Russ should consider West Texas. If Paola can't find Hispanic community in Odessa then she's just not trying... or she's a snot who thinks she's too good for Mexicans and they're not "spicy" enough for her stupid lifestyle. Either way, Pao sucks. 

Russ has a decent shot of a job in West Texas right now (esp if he's willing to work in any aspect of oil/gas - which he may be given how much he wants to just stay in the field) and there is a Hispanic community -- but then Pao will go on about how it's not a spicy enough culture. The area and the people are nothing like Columbia - not partying until 2 am. Not standing on stools for photo shoots of body parts . . . .

[Mrs. Hanson]

I just saw the part where Danielle talks to Wal Mart Tom.  What can I say?  That chick needs professional help.  She is so obsessed with being right it is insane.  Discussing how often you had sex?  It was a trainwreck, yet I watched.  Tom had a big point about putting energy into her daughters and of course she misread that, getting defensive,  But you know what?  She DID put Mo ahead of her daughters.  

Who would have thought Wal Mart Tom would be the voice of reason!!!

[Former Nun]

6 hours ago, seacliffsal said:

She may stay with him, but it will be a lifetime of unfulfilled promises by Jorge.

And may evolve into bruises, broken bones...and worse.  Not hers.

[nlkm9]

2 hours ago, Former Nun said:

Wasn't that mentioned in the first season...that Chantel can't understand why TWO of Pedro's sisters work, have a nice place to live, and support themselves--yet one sister and his mother do not?  

shades of melanie and devar wondering the exact same thing!! oy vey!!

2 hours ago, Former Nun said:

But by this time, wasn't Russ offered a job...within his education but outside his field?  The pay was much less than he made previously...after (probably) some years on the job.  The offer comes with benefits.  The most important thing to me was that Russ had been out of work FOR A YEAR.  It's often said that it's easier to find a different job if one is employed.

I have been very sympathetic of Russ but at this point he needs to wise up. Pao only loves herself, and I think Russ is cute and could(employed) be a great catch..hes so taken with being married to a "model".she is no model. I watch and I cant figure out how they can maintain 2 homes...TLC cant pay that well can they?

[Emmeline]

I'm just doing some catch-up here and I cannot recall if Pedro ever signed the prenuptial?  Dear Lord say he did.

[Lily247]

18 hours ago, Former Nun said:

I'm not so sure that Americans need this lesson from Pedro's family.   Pedro's sister and mother seem able-bodied; why doesn't their culture encourage them to be self-sufficient?  Like, get J-O-B-S.   He has other sisters who work and pay their own way.  "Helping" is one thing...creating a lifestyle better than one's own is another.

Im not sure whether or not Pedro's mother and sister work. I am assuming they work low paying jobs. Pedro's mother mentioned she needed a laptop for work. They do need to behave in an appreciative manner though towards Chantel. She is 50% the reason why Pedro is able to send TLC money back. Pedro's friends brought up a point that a lot of Americans say "screw u" or something to parents when they need help. In many cultures families help adult children after they get married by sharing their home and helping raise grandchildren, but that is not as common here. In return, traditionally Hispanic culture takes care of their elderly at home.

By the way, I am assuming that his family gets their own paychecks for appearing on the show. So I think that part of this is just storyline stolen from Mel/Devar (that was different as it was stipulated to the audience very clearly that Mel was financially well off from her own hard work and Devar planned to send back 90% of his paychecks.) 

[sleepyjean]

Quote

 I don't really like her either, but the way they treat her is terrible, calling her a prostitute and such.

Ok, but she IS a prostitute. That's exactly what she is. She graces him with her "hotness" and occasional sex in return for a lavish lifestyle. That's the deal she signed up for. She's been quite clear about that. It was never about love, mutual respect, camaraderie, building a life together, or even just mutual affection. It was 100% about money. That's why I don't understand why she gets so offended when Lourdes calls a spade a spade. Lourdes is crass as hell, but she's speaking truth.

Quote

It's about Chantal being spoiled and entitled. How dare motherPedro and sisterPedro have a bigger apartment using money that Pedro could be spending on her? Clearly Chantal has always been the princess who is entitled to everything. While I think she has a right to be pissed off if Pedro is sending large sums to his mom every month without telling her, you would think they would have had that conversation before they got married.

This was one huge backfire on Chantel and her family. I'll bet any amount of money that it was her parents' idea for Chantel and Pedro to keep their money separate. I'm sure they told Chantel that she needed to protect her millions from this no-good, money-grubbing furriner. Never occurred to them that that meant she wouldn't know what he was doing with his money. It's clear she doesn't know exactly what he brings home or how he spends it. She figured she could be tight with her finances and he'd spend all of his on her. It shocked the hell out of her to find out she isn't his only priority. She thought she'd be able to carry his cojones around in her purse. Turns out she doesn't know her man as well as as she thought she did. Shocking, since they've known each other so long and had so many deep, meaningful discussions about their future together.

Quote

Papa Chantel and son seem to feel very strongly about the bedroom/kitchen. So, if it's that deplorable, then I'd find them what I feel is a suitable place, find out if they can afford the monthly rent, and then help them with  deposits, etc.  OR they could move in with me until they get on their feet.

Oh they would absolutely do that - and were doing that - for Chantel. But they'll be damned before they'll spend one thin dime to support Pedro. It amuses me the way they go on about her sleeping "in the kitchen area," as if she's Cinderella, sleeping beside the hearth. They really do think the sun shines out of her rear end.

 

The real mystery to me is not why Pedro and Chantel are together. It's not why Chantel's parents refuse to see her part in any of this mess. It's not why Pedro's family is so unnecessarily hostile. No, the mystery to me is why Gege, who seems to be intelligent, kind, mature, and beautiful is BFFs with someone like Chantel, who appears to be almost relentlessly immature and self-absorbed? And how did Gege manage to find a quality black man in ATL while Chantel had to go to another country to find someone good enough for her?

Edited August 1, 2017 by sleepyjean

[Meowwww]

Re-watching.  Pao actually just said to Russ "it's time for you to start helping me". 

I just can't with the entitlement!!