Tag: pregnancy

Evenings At The Shore: Happily Ever After

On By 18cinemalane2 Comments

Well, this is it. The final re-cap of Chesapeake Shores. They say “nothing lasts forever”. But honestly, I didn’t think this show would end as soon as it has, especially since I’ve never re-capped a show that was ending before. I will admit I was skeptical of the last season’s overall quality. Since last seasons of television shows are more often than not weak, I wondered if Chesapeake Shores would be any different. For the most part, though, this season has been fine. I like how the show’s creative team emphasized tying up loose ends and creating a cohesive narrative. Are there stories that could have been better written? Sure. Compared to other last seasons, however, the stories could have been a lot worse. I know six seasons is a pretty good run. This show has had its stellar and not-so-stellar moments since it came to Hallmark in 2016. However, in my opinion, Chesapeake Shores never became “bad tv”. I never walked away from it, like I did with Good Witch, and the resolutions were more satisfying than Cedar Cove.

Just a reminder: If you did not see this series finale of Chesapeake Shores, there will be spoilers within this re-cap.

Chesapeake Shores season six poster created by Hallmark Media and Hallmark Channel

Season: 6

Episode: 10

Name: All or Nothing at All

Abby and Evan’s story: Abby receives news that Mick is retiring, leaving the O’Brien’s construction company solely to her. As the business’ new leader, one of the first things she does is offer Mandrake an assistant position, which he says he’ll consider. She also crosses paths with Evan, who is still thinking about his father, John. During their interaction, Evan shares with Abby how his mom has had bad taste in boyfriends. He even recalls how his mom’s last boyfriend was so abusive, he and his mom were forced to flee their home. After his conversation with Abby, Evan decides to give John a second chance. Evan finds John on the beach, considering going kayaking. Not only does Evan apologize for his behavior in the previous episode, he and John reminisce over the memory of Evan’s mom. They also agree to go kayaking, as John tries to do one new thing every week. After Mick and Megan’s wedding, Evan takes Abby to his new house. Even though she is impressed by what she sees, Abby is surprised to hear jazz music playing throughout the house, knowing how much she loves it and Evan doesn’t. She is also surprised when Evan proposes to her. Not only does she say yes, Abby also agrees to move in to Evan’s new home.

Mick and Megan’s story: Mick and Megan share their engagement news while meeting their grandson. They plan to re-marry within that week, agreeing with Jess to host the wedding service at the bed and breakfast. Megan also plans to take some time off work, in order for her and Mick to finally take that trip around the world. With the wedding fast approaching, Megan is still looking for “something old”. Mick ends up re-giving Megan her old wedding band, revealing he never got rid of it. The day of the wedding arrives, with the ceremony running smoothly. Mick and Megan host their reception at the O’Brien family home.

Kevin and Sarah’s story: Kevin successfully delivers his son, who he and Sarah name Mick Jr. After they arrive home from the hospital, Kevin plans to visit some universities, in order to see which medical school will be the right choice for him. He not only visits John Hopkins, he also considers applying to University of Pittsburgh. Toward the end of the episode, Kevin reveals he will apply to both universities.

Wedding couple image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/hand-drawn-wedding-invitation-with-happy-couple_1259848.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/wedding”>Wedding vector created by Freepik</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

Connor and Margaret’s and Jess and David’s story: Margaret is upset Connor took Mr. Peck’s case against her wishes. Despite co-leading the firm, she doesn’t feel like an equal partner. Margaret eventually forgives Connor, as she discovers who likely framed Mr. Peck. According to the documents David gave Connor and Margaret, it appears Baron, Mr. Peck’s business associate, was taking the money. Though the documents don’t prove anything, they could help them possibly win the case. Margaret and Connor visit David at The Inn at Eagle Point to share the good news. Later that day, David shares this good news with Jess. He also thanks Jess for supporting him during his family’s struggles. Jess has good news to share too, as she reveals she is pregnant.

Bree and Luke’s story: Luke has been reflecting on his recent experiences. He feels Bree shouldn’t be dating him, as he doesn’t want to burden her. Luke arrives at Bree’s house to tell her how he feels. Bree doesn’t want to end their relationship, as she wants to stand by Luke through his struggles. At first, Luke decides he isn’t attending Mick and Megan’s wedding, as he wants to make “a clean getaway”. But he changes his mind, with him and Bree agreeing to give their relationship a chance.

Wedding dress image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by freepik – http://www.freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

Some thoughts to consider:

  • Toward the end of this episode, there was a montage of the O’Brien family sitting around the fire pit over the show’s six seasons. A female vocalist sang the show’s theme song as the images played on screen. While this was a simpler way to commemorate Chesapeake Shores, I liked this part of the episode. It was not only bittersweet, but also a nice trip down memory lane.  
  • Similar to the previous episode, there were too many stories in the series finale. As I’ve said before, I recognize the show’s creative team tried their best to tie up as many loose ends as they could. For the most part, they did a job well done. But I wish some of these stories had been drawn out throughout the season. Mr. Peck’s case is a good example of this, as it could have received a stronger resolution.
  • While Nell was mentioned throughout the final season, I wish she had appeared in, at least, the last episode. I’m not sure why Diane Ladd didn’t appear in the sixth season. But her absence in this chapter was definitely felt. In the previous season, Nell seemed to get along really well with Arthur. I honestly thought this relationship would be revisited before the show ended. Sadly, it looks like that story will never get resolved.
Evening view from the shore image created by 0melapics at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/landscape-in-a-swamp-at-night_1042860.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by 0melapics – Freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

Have fun in Chesapeake Shores!

Sally Silverscreen

Evenings At The Shore: Don’t Grow Your Troubles

On By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

In this episode of Chesapeake Shores, David is still concerned about his father. These concerns consume him to the point of accidently planting flowers upside down. When Miranda, the bed and breakfast’s newest guest, sees the upside-down flowers, she tells David, “Don’t grow your troubles”. Miranda’s advice may seem easier said than done. But it is still a useful piece of advice. Specifically speaking about Jess and David’s troubles, there are various ways they could resolve them. Even though I will share their decision in this re-cap, sometimes one of the best decisions is to step away for a little while. This time away could help one gain a new perspective, see details that were unaddressed before. As the show comes to a close, it seems like these troubles are finally getting resolved.

Just a reminder: If you did not see this episode of Chesapeake Shores, there will be spoilers within this re-cap.

Chesapeake Shores season six poster created by Hallmark Media and Hallmark Channel

Season: 6

Episode: 9

Name: Spring Can Really Hang Up the Most

Abby and Evan’s story: Evan is meeting his father for the first time. As his father, John, tells Mandrake and Abby how he met Evan’s mother and why he didn’t stay in contact with her, Evan is upset about these pieces of information. Evan not only calls out Mandrake for bringing John to the O’Brien family home, he also leaves the house, telling no one of his whereabouts. At a fancy restaurant called Giovanni’s, Mick crosses paths with Evan. While drinking at the restaurant, Evan confesses his father isn’t his father, as he abandoned him and his mother. When Mick offers him a ride, Evan accepts the invitation. Meanwhile, in Chesapeake Shores, Abby receives a call from Caitlyn’s school. According to the call, she has been suspended for fighting with her friend, Sloane. But after the meeting in the principal’s office, Abby learns Sloane isn’t who she says she is. Caitlyn shares with her mom how Sloane has actually been bullying her. The bullying became so bad, Sloane convinced Caitlyn to dye her hair blue, the insults about her hair escalating into the aforementioned fight. After helping Caitlyn wash out the blue hair dye, Abby reminds her daughter how true friends will like her just the way she is.

Later in the episode, Abby learns Evan has fired Mandrake. Understandably upset by this, Abby thinks something should be done about Mandrake’s loss of employment and Evan’s recent behavior. Mandrake reassures her how he will be fine, all things considered. He even reveals how he and Evan met. Many years prior to moving to Chesapeake Shores, Evan got in a car accident. Because Mandrake was living under a bridge, at that time, he was able to pull Evan out of the burning vehicle. Evan commented how Mandrake was magically at the right place at the right time. This is why Evan called Mandrake by that name instead of his real name, Alan, referring to “Mandrake the Magician”.

Mick and Megan’s story: Mick is planning on proposing to Megan, again. He not only consults members of the O’Brien family about this, he also consults his NA sponsor. Mick chose a ring and makes a reservation at a fancy restaurant called Giovanni’s. On their way to their date, Megan can tell Mick is nervous. She even becomes suspicious when they arrive at the restaurant and order her favorite dessert. As she’s eating her crème brulee, Mick appears concerned about what’s not in it. That’s because he put the ring in the crème brulee. After looking through the other dessert, Mick and Megan discover the ring ended up in someone else’s crème brulee, causing them tooth problems. Outside of Giovanni’s, Megan receives the ring from Mick. As he is about to propose, Mick gets a call from Kevin, proclaiming the baby will be born soon. Before they drive away, Megan accepts the proposal.

Fancy jewelry image created by Freepic.diller at freepik.com. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/wedding”>Wedding photo created by freepic.diller – http://www.freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

Bree and Luke’s story: While Luke was shot by the robber from the previous episode, the bullet bounced off his ribcage and became stuck in his arm. He ends up in the hospital because of his injuries. During his hospital stay, Luke’s parole officer pays him a visit. He informs Luke the convenience store incident took place outside of his jurisdiction. But because Luke saved the cashier’s life, he won’t be sent back to prison. Afterwards, Mick and Bree visit Luke in the hospital, reminding him how lucky he is. Meanwhile, at The Inn at Eagle Point, Miranda and Bree discuss the film adaptation. Miranda is looking for someone to write the screenplay. Despite having little to no screenwriting experience, Bree convinces Miranda to hire her as the film’s official screenwriter. The convincing seems to have worked, as Miranda agrees to Bree’s idea. But later in the episode, Miranda reveals she has accepted a villain role in a Marvel production. This means Bree’s film adaptation has been indefinitely put on hold.

Jess and David’s story: David and Jess’ problems have consumed their lives. In an effort to take their minds off of their problems, they agree to go on a picnic, away from the bed and breakfast. They also agree to not bring their phones. At the beginning of the picnic, David and Jess have no idea how to relax. Trying to forget about their worries, they look at the clouds, imagining shapes within them. But all they see are things related to their problems. During this picnic, David confesses how his missing trust fund allowed him to break free from that part of his life. He also shares with Jess how he can now live for himself. The rest of the picnic goes according to plan. When they return to the bed and breakfast, Miranda offers to invest in Jess’ vineyard idea. As Jess is accepting Miranda’s offer, Connor arrives at The Inn at Eagle Point. He tells David he and Margaret will accept Mr. Peck’s case.

Kevin and Sarah’s story: In his spare time, Kevin makes a financial plan for his and Sarah’s future. This plan is so detailed, it even includes steps toward retirement. Sarah is overwhelmed by this plan. Her only focus is to have a successful delivery. While Kevin is on an EMT job, Sarah goes into labor. Kevin and his fellow EMT pick Sarah up in their ambulance. But the baby is coming a lot sooner than expected. At the end of the episode, it is implied Kevin will deliver the baby in the back of the ambulance.

Picnic basket in Autumn image created by Stockgiu at freepik.com. Picnic basket vector created by stockgiu – www.freepik.com

Some thoughts to consider:

  • I’ve seen some fans on Twitter state they’d like to see a Chesapeake Shores Christmas movie. While I like that idea, I don’t think it will, realistically, happen. So, when Miranda and Bree discussed adapting Bree’s book into a movie, I thought turning that part of the story into a film could serve as a good alternative to the aforementioned Christmas movie idea. Miranda putting the adaptation on indefinite hold was disappointing, as it ended that idea before it even started. But after this show ends, it doesn’t seem like Chesapeake Shores will be a priority for Hallmark any more.
  • During Jess and David’s picnic, David compliments her hair. Jess then tells him she washed it, with David asking if she washed her hair for him. As soon as I heard this conversation, I immediately recognized it as a reference to the movie, A Summer Place. While I don’t know why this movie would be referenced on Chesapeake Shores, I thought David and Jess’ conversation was hilarious!
  • While I think this season of Chesapeake Shores has been fine, this episode contained too many stories. I recognize the show’s creative team tried their best to tie up as many loose ends as they could. But some of these stories should have either been drawn out or resolved much sooner. Evan’s story is a perfect example of this. Instead of meeting his father in the second to last episode of the season, this encounter should have taken place in the second or third episode. That way, the audience could not only get to know more about John, a father and son relationship could also form and grow between Evan and John.
Evening view from the shore image created by 0melapics at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/landscape-in-a-swamp-at-night_1042860.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by 0melapics – Freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

What are your thoughts on this episode? Are you looking forward to the series finale? Let me know in the comment section!

Have fun in Chesapeake Shores!

Sally Silverscreen

Evenings At The Shore: Hope At the Bottom of the Box

On By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

When Evan talks about his family in this episode of Chesapeake Shores, Mandrake tells him how hope was found at the bottom of Pandora’s Box. The fact Mandrake would say something so profound is not surprising. But what he said was interesting. Pandora’s Box is, more often than not, associated with negativity. I remember hearing a saying about not being able to close Pandora’s Box once it’s opened. When you take “Pandora’s Box” out of the equation, though, you remember how there are such things as good boxes. Presents are a perfect example, as you anticipate what might be inside them. Sometimes, a person is gifted what they need instead of what they want. This is the case for Evan, as Mandrake likely knew hope is what Evan needed.

Just a reminder: If you did not see this episode of Chesapeake Shores, there will be spoilers within this re-cap.

Chesapeake Shores season six poster created by Hallmark Media and Hallmark Channel

Season: 6

Episode: 8

Name: I Get a Kick Out of You

Abby and Evan’s story: Evan finally receives his DNA results. Not only does he learn about several of his quirks, he also learns he has cousins in Florida. For the majority of the episode, though, Evan avoids exploring this part of his family’s history. He even takes up magic again, a hobby he had when he was a child. While performing a card trick for Caitlyn and Carrie, Abby talks to Mandrake about Evan’s hesitance. Mandrake explains how Evan has been on his own for so long, he’s afraid of letting others get close to him. Later in the episode, Evan confesses to Abby he’s wanted to know more about his father since he was a teenager. He then tells Mandrake to visit his cousins in Florida. Several days later, Mandrake returns to the O’Brien family home with Evan’s father in tow.

Bree and Luke’s story: Kevin and Sarah’s baby shower is just around the corner. This makes Bree realize she still doesn’t have a gift to give them. Meanwhile, Miranda Livingston arrives in Chesapeake Shores to discuss the movie deal of Bree’s book. Because Bree has never met Miranda before, she doesn’t know what to expect. Miranda’s down-to-earth personality catches Bree off-guard. When sitting in on one of Bree’s classes, Miranda gives Bree some public speaking related advice. Bree isn’t sure what to make of Miranda. At Kevin and Sarah’s baby shower, where Bree gives them a collection of children’s books, Bree turns to Evan about Miranda. Evan reassures her that Miranda is a genuinely good person, recalling their time together on Celebrity Jeopardy. While Luke attends Kevin and Sarah’s baby shower with Bree, he can only stay for a little while. This is because he wants to lay flowers on his parents’ graves. After visiting the cemetery, Luke goes to a convenience store. During this trip, a robber enters the store, demanding the cashier hand over the money from the register. Luke tries to deescalate the situation, even knocking the robber’s gun out of his hand. The scene ends with someone getting shot off-screen.

Jess and David’s story: Jess is hosting a War of 1812 reenactment weekend at The Inn at Eagle Point. While this event is taking place, she has doubts about the longevity of the bed and breakfast. She’s also frustrated she still hasn’t found an investor for her vineyard. She discusses these issues with Bree and David, who assure her she’ll find a way to make things work out. Meanwhile, David believes his father might be innocent. He presents the computer files to Conner and Margaret, who tell David to hand them over to the FBI. Several days later, FBI Agent Malik arrives at The Inn at Eagle Point. She appreciates David handing over the computer files. But she informs him there will still be a trial. David also turns to Mr. Peck’s business associate, Baron. Even though Baron doesn’t know who exactly is guilty, he believes Mr. Peck is innocent. When all of his options to hire a lawyer don’t work, David turns to Connor and Margaret for help.

Image of magic show essentials created by Macrovector at freepik.com. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/card”>Card vector created by macrovector – http://www.freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

Some thoughts to consider:

  • I know Mandrake meant well by bringing Evan’s father from Florida. But the fact he didn’t let Evan know ahead of time was out of character for him. Ever since he was introduced last season, Mandrake always looked out for Evan’s best interests. From what I recall, he never did anything without Evan’s permission. So, all of a sudden, Mandrake does something against Evan’s wishes? To me, that was a break in continuity.
  • The commercial for this episode was somewhat misleading. When Bree and Luke were featured in the commercial, Luke says something along the lines of how he needs to be on his own. Bree then appears concerned over what Luke told her. That scene’s presentation in the commercial gave the impression Luke and Bree were experiencing another relationship related issue. But in the episode, Luke was telling Bree he was going to visit his parents’ graves.
  • Toward the end of the episode, Kevin confesses to Sarah how he wants to go back to medical school to become a doctor. While this is a great chapter in Kevin’s story, we only have two episodes left until the show is over. According to the commercial for the next episode, it looks like Sarah might give birth. Maybe there will be another time-jump in the series finale?
Evening view from the shore image created by 0melapics at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/landscape-in-a-swamp-at-night_1042860.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by 0melapics – Freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

What are your thoughts on this episode? What you you think happened to Luke? Let me know in the comment section!

Have fun in Chesapeake Shores!

Sally Silverscreen

Evenings At The Shore: Happy Un-Birthday to You

On By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

Bree reveals to Luke how she doesn’t like birthdays. As her birthday is approaching, all she wants is treat it like any other day. While I feel birthdays should be a day of celebration, Bree might have an interesting point. Over the years, I’ve heard quotes about how bigger moments are made up of smaller moments. I also remember a quote from the 1997 film, Titanic, about making every moment count. Based on this episode, my guess is Bree just wants every day to be equally celebrated. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as that’s why the present is called “the present”: every day can be a gift.

Just a reminder: If you did not see this episode of Chesapeake Shores, there will be spoilers within this re-cap.

Chesapeake Shores season six poster created by Hallmark Media and Hallmark Channel

Season: 6

Episode: 7

Name: It’s Not For Me to Say

Abby and Evan’s story: During a visit to the O’Brien family home, Evan says he feels like he’s known Abby forever. Abby asks if he’s saying he loves her. Before Evan can answer, Mick walks into the kitchen. Because Evan didn’t answer Abby’s question, Abby wonders throughout the episode if Evan loves her. She asks Kevin for advice, but he, once again, is no help. Later, in the episode, Abby confronts Evan about the unanswered question. This makes Evan wonder if she loves him back. They agree to say their responses at the same time. While Evan says, “I love you”, Abby says “You love me”. However, she does tell Evan she loves him. Toward the end of the episode, at an O’Brien family dinner, Evan shares with Abby how he wants to take a DNA test. This is because he wants to learn more about his family.

Kevin and Sarah’s story: Six months after the events of the previous episode, Kevin and Sarah are at their ultrasound appointment. Despite not wanting to know the gender of their baby, Kevin catches a glimpse on the ultrasound screen. Unsure what to do about the situation, he turns to Bree for advice, with Bree telling her brother he needs to comes clean with Sarah. He also tells Mick about his dilemma, learning more about his father during their conversation. Kevin does eventually tell Sarah what he saw, his wife delighted by this latest discovery. At the O’Brien family dinner, Sarah and Kevin reveal there are having a baby boy.

Mick and Megan’s story: When Megan returns from Los Angeles, Mick decides to take her on a date to a local, fancy restaurant. On this date, Mick tells Megan he’d like her to move back into the O’Brien family home. She refuses this offer, as she doesn’t want to disrupt Mick’s recovery. Later in the episode, Mick reveals to Megan he built a pergola in the O’Brien’s backyard. Megan is impressed when she sees this structure in person, especially since she claims to have waited over twenty years for it. This is where Megan tells Mick she needs some more time to decide what to do next. Toward the end of the episode, at the O’Brien family dinner, Megan asks Mick to retrieve an item from his room. When he goes to his room, Mick finds Megan’s suitcases, indicating she decided to move into the O’Brien family home.

Heart shaped balloons image created by Katemangostar at freepik.com. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by katemangostar – http://www.freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

David and Jess’ story: Jess is finding it difficult to secure a business loan from the bank. Even when she tweaks her business plans, it isn’t enough to receive a loan. Meanwhile, David gets a call from his dad’s lawyer. Mr. Peck wants his son to visit him at the Washington D.C. prison he’s currently in. David reluctantly visits his dad, but only as a cathartic experience. When David goes to the prison, Mr. Peck still claims his innocence. He also tells David about a secret apartment he owns in D.C., along with a flash drive containing valuable information about his company. Mr. Peck even encourages his son to contact the only business associate who didn’t abandon him. When he arrives at The Inn at Eagle Point, David looks through the files on the flash drive. This makes him start to think his dad was really framed.

Bree and Luke’s story: While talking about their relationship, Bree and Luke discover their birthday is on the same day. They also discover they don’t like birthdays. Bree and Luke tell each other not to give presents. But throughout the episode, they second guess themselves. They even turn to Kevin for advice on this issue. On their birthday, Bree gives Luke a glass plant holder for his cactus. Meanwhile, Luke didn’t give Bree a present, as that was their original agreement. He also gets a cake that says “Happy Birthday Luke and not Bree”. At the O’Brien family dinner, the O’Brien family sings “Happy Ordinary Day” to Luke and Bree.

Birthday party set-up image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/food”>Food photo created by freepik – http://www.freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

Some thoughts to consider:

  • Before this season premiered, I assumed there would be a time jump in the series finale, as a way to tie up the last remaining loose ends. But since this time jump happened at about the season’s half-way point, it only makes sense for Kevin and Sarah’s story. After that six-month time jump, it seems like not much has changed for the other characters. It also makes me wonder if Caitlyn will share what her “whatever” was she brought up in the previous episode? I’m starting to think this time jump was an unnecessary creative decision.
  • This episode was a mixed bag. On the one hand, I have been impressed with David and Jess’ story! It has been intriguing, keeping me on the edge of my seat. Jess has even come a long way since she was introduced back in 2016. On the other hand, though, Bree and Luke’s story was not only the weakest one in this episode, it’s, so far, the weakest one this season. Did we need an hour-long story about Bree and Luke struggling to not get a gift for one another? I’m hoping their next story is much stronger than this one was.
  • As I said in this re-cap, Mick built a pergola for Megan. Between his job and recovery process, how did he find the time to build it? With this six-month time jump, I’m guessing Mick built the pergola a little bit at a time. However, I wish the dialogue had provided a clearer explanation.
Evening view from the shore image created by 0melapics at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/landscape-in-a-swamp-at-night_1042860.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by 0melapics – Freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

What are your thoughts on this episode? Do you like the six-month time jump? Let me know in the comment section!

Have fun in Chesapeake Shores!

Sally Silverscreen