My thoughts on the first season of Riverdale. (Part V).

Some shit went down this hour, friends. While things are left is a mess.... I have heard rumors that Season Two starts on October 11th and that it will be available on Netflix the very next day (October 12th), so hopefully this is a true thing?

This hour you get to see a mess.... and some closure.... and some kisses.... and then shit gets f*cked up again, because that is the way this show goes.

Let's begin, shall we? Read Part I here, Part II here, Part III here, and Part IV here.

(Season Finale) Episode (Chapter) Thirteen: The Sweet Hereafter

Official Synopsis: Archie and Veronica continue to grow closer. Betty is tired of her family acting as if nothing has happened and confronts her mother. Jughead finds himself in an unexpected situation, leaving Archie and the gang scrambling. Hermione makes Fred an offer that seems too good to be true. Meanwhile, the truth about the Blossoms’ family business is revealed, leaving Cheryl to take matters into her own hands.

My thoughts: So.... the Blossom family maple syrup business was really a front for a heroin ring?! Why are people still so surprised when rich people are caught up in drugs and deceit? You need to calm your tits, Sheriff Keller.... Billy Loomis FP ain't gonna tell you shit. I know it, you know it, even Jughead knows it. How is shit already back to being so creepy and cold at the Cooper house? Like, we're just all gonna pretend that the last twelve episodes haven't happened and that Polly isn't pregnant with her cousin's baby? Not Betty.... Betty knows this is bullshit. There's just a random Cooper brother out there somewhere?! I think it's awesome that Betty wants to write an article calling the town out on its bullshit and the fact that they're just trying to blame/exile Juggie, because of his dad, but nobody has even mentioned that the rich dude was the murderer/drug kingpin. *insert eyeroll here* Screw you, Mayor McCoy, Juggie is apart of Riverdale!! I think it's great that Betty published that article.... I think the whole bloody locer thing was an overreaction. No one cares that Archie and Veronica are dating now.... it's like Betty said, Archie, she's with Jughead now and they're happy SO MOVE ON AND DON'T RUIN IT. Juggie giving Betty that side-eye when she called out that they were together is adorable. Cheryl apologizing to Juggie is so well deserved. NO.... Juggie CANNOT transfer and leave! I'm not ok with this.... and he just went and did it without telling them about it? To make things easier? Your friends/girlfriend ain't going down that easily without a fight. I know you want to keep Betty safe, but she is not giving up that easily. What is Cheryl Blossom up to? Her mom better chill, because Cheryl is about to f*ck some shit up.... what's that text say, Veronica? TOLD YOU. Oh no.... they're just totally ignoring that they could all die to run across the ice and save Cheryl. Poor Cheryl.... yeah, I said it. Damn Archie, my hand hurts just watching you punch through that ice.... those poor kids. So, Hermione just fired the Serpents even though they had their backs when the chips were down? So much for loyalty.... I agree with Fred. That talk that Juggie and FP have? Amazing.... FP knows what he needs to tell Juggie and Juggie knows what his dad needs too.... oh, you guys. Ok, I guess Archie really does deserve to have his song sung at the jubilee. Don't be nervous about your speech, Betty.... Juggie showed up to support you. In her speech, Betty says that everyone in the town is the essence of Riverdale - even people they attempt to shun, like FP and Jughead. She says that Riverdale needs to do better to prevent something like Jason’s murder from happening again. She finishes her speech, and Jughead leads the audience into applause. That's right, three cheers for Betty Cooper!! Hip hip!! HOORAY!! Cheryl is burning down the Blossom family mansion (did she remove Nana Rose, hopefully first?) and her mom is PISSED. I told you not to mess with crazy ass Cheryl!! The gang (Juggie, Betty Archie, & Veronica.... where's Kevin?!) are celebrating at Pop's.... I don't think they're gonna let things end this nicely. Ugh, I am over this whole "Archie & Veronica" thing. Back to the important stuff.... Jughead and Betty. (While at FP's trailer alone) Betty: "I'm not givng up on him, Jug.... not until he's out." Jughead: "Hell no.... that is why I love you, Betty.... I love you.... Betty Cooper." Betty: "Jughead Jones.... I love you." Aw, they love each other and now they're gonna kiss.... whoa, who knew Juggie had that much upper body strength? Must be all that construction work. No one cares that Archie is hooking up with Veronica, he has literally hooked up with like fourteen people this season. But Betty and Juggie? That's a first.... I love that they're really into it and when there's a knock on the door interrupting them, Juggie is immediately like "is that your mom?!" Ha! That would so be like Alice Cooper to show up right about now. It's the Serpents.... and they have Juggie's back, because they "take care of their own" like FP did? Juggie is gonna be a Serpent?! Can you let a Highschool Sophmore into your gang? He looks pretty happy to put on that leather.... and Betty looks freaked.... and now Juggie looks freaked looking at her.... I bet she didn't see this coming like three minutes ago when she thought she was just gonna get to sleep with her boyfriend.... y'all, please survive this. Don't listen to Archie, Veronica.... he's sneaking out, but it's to meet Fred at Pop's for breakfast, so it's ok. Hi, Dylan McKay Fred!! Wait.... what's happening? Holy shit, that dude has a gun! Get away from Pop's! Stay back, Archie!! I feel like he's not there for Pop's.... this is all WAY TOO convenient.... NO!! Did he shoot Fred?! Did Archie jump in front of the gun?! DID HE SHOOT FRED?! Holy hell, he shot Fred!! Somebody call 911!! Get Fred some help!! What?! To be continued until next season?! OH, YOU HAVE GOT TO BE F*CKING KIDDING ME.

Jughead's Input: "Jason’s murder had revealed some dark truths none of us were too eager to face, especially not Mayor McCoy, who wanted every last vestige of corruption crushed, like a snake under a boot heel."
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Final Thoughts at the End of Season One: I CANNOT wait until season two of this show comes out. Like, they need to get on this shit.... I hope Betty and Juggie can survive all this. And Fred. Oh, come on, Fred.... you, Juggie, and Betty all pull through!!

My thoughts on the first season of Riverdale. (Part IV).

We are pulling into the home stretch my friends. How am I even making this into so many posts? It literally took me two nights to watch the first season of this show (#NetflixBingeWatching). And yet, here we are.

While I admit that this is probably ridiculous and that I should've maybe never even started this.... I've never been known for taking the easy way out of for not doing dumb things. Hey, you win some you lose some.... right?! Nevermind, just go with it.

Read about Part I here, Part II here, Part III here, and now we're onto Part IV.

Episode (Chapter) Ten: The Lost Weekend

Official Synopsis: When Fred decides to finalize the divorce with Archie’s mother, Mary, Archie hides his true feelings. Archie tries to win Valerie back with a romantic evening, however, Betty hijacks his plans when she decides to throw Jughead a surprise birthday party. Once Cheryl learns of the party, she decides to make it interesting and things quickly get out of control. Meanwhile, Veronica contemplates whether she should participate in the deposition to help get her Dad released.

My thoughts: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JUGHEAD!!! I mean, I kind of feel about Veronica and her dad like I do about Josie and the Pussycats.... like, I'm not going to stop watching because of them, but I'm also not really into it either. Archie, you told Betty that it was Jughead's birthday?! He's going to be SO pissed off. I love that everybody keeps referring to Betty and Jughead as boyfriend/girlfriend and they are the only ones that won't admit it until the very end.... really Juggie?! Gonna go down swinging.... alright. I love that Jughead and Betty went to the movies for his birthday (An American Werewolf in London!!). Fred, don't leave town, bro.... this "birthday party" is gonna get so out of hand. Annndddd.... it's out of hand. Jughead is pissed, Betty is upset, and Archie is LIT THE F*CK UP. Get over yourself, Valerie.... Archie is trying to talk to you, not accost you and throw a fit like you are clearly doing right now. Juggie thinks he only has two friends? He has more than two friends.... KEVIN IS TO YOUR FRIEND, JUGHEAD. Seriously, you're gonna be that big of a douche, Jug? Fine, but you're gonna feel bad about it in about two seconds.... told you. Ugh, Chuck. You might call everybody out on their "dirty little secrets" Chuck, but you are also the dude that was lying about hooking up with girls in really gross ways when you weren't so I feel like you still earn the biggest loser title. OH SHIT!! Juggie knocked the f*ck out of Chuck! I mean, he got a hit back, but DAMN.... and the FP threw Chuck out and made everybody go home. Boom. No Juggie, you don't need FP to give you any tips on your right hook.... that bitch went down like a sack of taters. Hang up the phone, Drunk Archie! This is all Cheryl's fault. Listen to FP, Jug.... go talk to Betty.... at Pop's.... and tell her about how you have layers so you guys can bond and kiss and be even more adorable than you already are. FP knows Alice.... sounds feisty and like good ole times. Oh snap, Archie is gonna hook up with Veronica now? That boy has too much damn energy. I love that they both fell asleep and the next morning when Veronica tries to sneak out Jughead catches her.... and immediately they have a "I won't say anything, because you really are my friend" moment.... I told you that you had more than just two friends, Jug. Fred brought Archie's mom back? Is that Molly Mother-F*cking Ringwald?!

Jughead's Input: "Weekdays, from 8:25am to 3:01pm we adhere to a strict regimen. Everything in our lives is controlled, but then something like the murder of Jason Blossom happens and you realize, there is no such thing as control, there is only chaos. Nevertheless, some of us strive to impose and maintain order, in what is, fundamentally, an orderless world. A fact which would very soon be confirmed, in ways none of us could have foreseen."

Episode (Chapter) Eleven: To Riverdale and Back Again

Official Synopsis: Betty is slammed overseeing Homecoming and Reunion weekend, but Alice wants her help with the Jason Blossom investigation. Alice turns to Archie and Veronica for help, but when Betty discovers they are working with her mom, she is not happy. After seeing his father, FP, start to clean up his act, Jughead wonders if it’s the right time to give him another chance. Cheryl and Polly have both decided to go to Homecoming in Jason’s honor, until a revelation waylays their plans. Meanwhile, Fred and Mary attend the Homecoming dance, leaving Fred to possibly reconsider the divorce.

My thoughts: Molly Ringwald/Archie's mom is not only named Mary, but they expect me to believe that Andie Walsh Mary and Dylan McKay Fred were kind of highschool sweethearts? I don't buy it. Aw, Juggie is stopping in at his dad, Billy Loomis FP's trailer.... and it's clean? And he's sober first thing in the morning? And he shaved? And they are just gonna talk about Jughead's manuscript?! WHAT IS HAPPENING?! Juggie has so much hope for the future now. Shut up, Veronica! Maybe mind your own business and deal with your shady ass daddy before you go poking around with other people's. Cheryl is just going to bring Polly as her date to the homecoming dance? Because it should've been Polly and Jason there in the first place? Ok.... I'm just gonna let that one go.... but only because Polly stumbled upon Clifford Blossom in a wing of their house (how rich do you have to be before your house starts having wings?) and he has a billion red wigs.... I don't trust him. Cheryl and Polly found the ring.... and now Cheryl is tripping again.... and the mom drugged Polly with a milkshake.... what. the. f*ck. Cheryl did NOT flush that ring and if y'all think she did, you're dumb. Alice just invited Juggie and Billy Loomis his dad over for dinner without asking Betty? She's up to something.... but Juggie is excited and Betty can't let him down! Did anybody really think this this dinner was gonna go good? Betty is 100% the f*ck over it and they are going to the dance.... look, I'm glad y'all are doing better, but you CANNOT move Jughead to Toledo, Billy FP. Damn you, Archie and Veronica.... y'all shouldn't be doing all this shit.... Jughead is gonna be pissed off and we JUST ESTABLISHED that y'all are friends. Look at Fred walking into that homecoming dance with Mary AND Hermione. Like. a. Boss. Betty caught y'all!! And now Jughead is mad at her too?! Oh come on, she didn't know and tried to stop shit before it happened.... yeah, he doesn't care, he's pissed: “to think I was going to pass on moving to Toledo with my family for you,” she loves you dammit, Jug!! LET HER LOVE YOU. She didn't do anything wrong! Annndddd.... now Billy Loomis FP has been arrested for Jason Bloom's murder. There was NOT a gun in that lockbox when Archie and Veronica were snooping in his trailer. Where is Jughead going? Omg, he's crying and I can't take it. Seeing Juggie cry all alone is too much for me. Betty can't find him.... I wouldn't talk to Archie and Veronica either, Betty.... but y'all HAVE to find Jughead and tell him about the gun plant!! Who is framing Billy FP and why?!

Jughead's Input: "People like to say that the death of Jason Blossom changed everything at Riverdale High, but certain things, certain traditions, never change. Take homecoming for instance. Though Jason’s jersey had been retired, the Riverdale Bulldogs would still be playing their arch-rivals the Baxter High Ravens with the River Vixens cheering them on. As in previous years, graduates from days of Riverdale past will come to town to relive their more youthful, more carefree days or… to make up for lost time."

Episode (Chapter) Twelve: Anatomy of a Murder

Official Synopsis: Archie and Veronica are shocked to learn of the arrest, but know they need to come clean to their parents about what they uncovered. Still hurt by the betrayal of his friends and torn over who to trust, Jughead reluctantly joins them in a quest for the truth. Meanwhile, Cheryl confronts her mom about why she treats her so much worse than she ever did with Jason.

My thoughts: Juggie.... I know you feel upset and alone right now, but you CAN'T move to Toledo. And now your mom says you can't either?! Oh, f*ck her. Like, I can say no, but you're damn momma shouldn't. PLEASE STOP CRYING. I'm so glad that Betty, Archie, and Veronica found you before you skipped town (I've lived in FL, it's not all that great and you'll hate it). And now y'all are on the hunt to find whoever is framing Billy FP! What?! FP, you didn't kill Jason and you're being framed, we all know it, so WHY are you confessing? You're lying. And now Alice Cooper has a gun too? Where are all of you people getting these guns?! WHAT?! THE COOPERS ARE REALLY BLOSSOMS?!?! Which means Polly and Jason were hooking up and Polly is now pregnant with her COUSINS BABY. That's right, go get Polly RIGHT F*CKING NOW. I agree with Alice, y'all probably killed your son to cover up the incest.... which blows my mind that people are just NOW throwing that rumor out there. Betty and Jughead need each other now more than ever. Juggie looks so sad talking to his dad.... and he knows FP is lying through his damn teeth!! FP called Joaquin? Kevin's boyfriend? My poor little Kevin. That's right Joaquin, the least you can do is take them to that other Southside Serpent that could maybe help.... annnddddd.... he's dead. All of these parents should be super pissed off right now.... but I also need these kids to help Juggie, so y'all will just have to get over it. Now Hermione is in trouble?! ONE PROBLEM AT A TIME, PLEASE. Kevin is getting Joaquin out of town.... poor Kev, he really cared about that gang member. At least Joaquin gave Kevin a piece of "evidence" before he skipped town.... and the kids found the bag with Jason Blossom's letterman jacket in it. Wait, does this make FP look more guilty or help?! That's right, Betty, SLAY ALL DAY GIRL AND GET IT. What's on the USB drive? All of these kids look officially traumatized. What was on it?! Betty.... why are you calling Cheryl? What's happening? Alice is turning the USB into Sheriff Keller? Ok, now we get to see what's on it.... HOLY. SHIT. Clifford Blossom murdered his own son?!! And Cheryl is hella bent on revenge!! FP confessed, because Clifford came to him the night he was arrested and threatened to kill Jughead?! I'LL BE DAMNED. And now FP can't get out, because he still has a bunch of other charges? Does Juggie at least feel better knowing that his dad isn't a murderer? Mary Andrews is leaving (Bye, Felicia) and Veronica's dad is getting out of prison? Go arrest, Clifford Blossom.... wait.... Cheryl, why do you look like that on your porch? What's in the barn?! CLIFFORD BLOSSOM HUNG HIMSELF?! That, or Cheryl got shit done, because bitches get shit done. And there are drugs everywhere.... shit is getting really realer than real up in here.

Jughead's Input: "And, though one question had been answered that night, that it was Clifford Blossom who killed Jason, a new mystery loomed over Riverdale. Why had he done it? It was a question only Clifford himself would be able to answer..."

My thoughts on the first season of Riverdale (Part III).

Can we all just agree to quit calling Archie a "Ginger Stallion"?! Like, please y'all that's gross and I still don't understand what it is. The appeal of Archie, that is.... I understand what the nickname is supposed to mean.

Oh,before we begin, let me just let y'all in on the fact that I finished the first season of this show in two evenings and had I not had to be an adult (boring), it wouldn't have taken that long. It really is just a good show.... and kind of dark. Which I like.... don't ask. And then I learned that season two of the show comes out on regular tv on like October 11th, but then it's going to be on Netflix like October 12th? And the second season is around 22 episodes long (the first is 13 episodes), so.... this is pretty damn cool. And I can't quit reading about this show and things connected to it.

Let's pick up where we left off, shall we?! Read Part I here and Part II here.

Episode (Chapter) Seven: In a Lonely Place

Official Synopsis: When a major piece of evidence is mysteriously destroyed, new rumors begin to swirl as to who was really behind Jason’s murder. Tensions build when Jughead’s father returns to the fray and it’s revealed that he and Fred have some unresolved issues between them. Meanwhile, Veronica takes matters into her own hands after her fight with Hermione. Cheryl approaches Betty with an unexpected proposal that leaves Betty torn.

My thoughts: Damn, Juggie.... that is quite a hallucination/nightmare you're having there. Are you at school? Are you sleeping under a staircase at school?! You are.... and Archie knows now. Oh, you don't want Betty to know, because you LIKE HER. Oh, you don't? So there's just no reason that you're singling out Betty then? Ok dude, keep telling yourself that. That's nice of Archie to offer Juggie a place to crash, he should go. Then again, he also just comforted Betty in front of ALL of their friends over Polly escaping(and disappearing from) the Sisters of Quiet Mercy (that still sounds like a cult to me). Ha! Everybody knows this Jughead/Betty thing even before they do. Holden Caulfield? Nice one, Veronica.... THEY HAD A MOMENT, OKAY?! Cheryl needs to calm the hell down right now. Like, I get that Polly disappearing looks guilty as f*ck, but come on, chill crazy. And now everybody has formed a search party look look for her.... yeah, only great things will come out of this. And now Cheryl's icy heart is thawed, because Polly is pregnant with Jason's baby? So. Much. Crazy. Aw, and here's Juggie at FP's trailer asking him to go back to work for Fred Andrews. Quit being proud and go, FP, I want Juggie to have good things, dammit. And he's gonna go back, because he doesn't want Juggie to look at him like he's "a piece of garbage." Hermione better not rat him out to Fred.... a snake doesn't bite unless you give them a reason to. And FP/Juggie are going out to dinner with Archie/Fred? I feel like this is too much good too soon.... and I was right. FP is drunk and he needs to WAKE THE HELL UP BECAUSE JUGHEAD IS TALKING TO YOU. I don't care that Veronica is throwing a baby fit, yes, your mother kissed Fred, but you kissed Archie when you knew Betty liked him (even though, screw Archie now, because clearly Jughead is superior in every way), so calm down moral girl. Hey, Sheriff Keller, back the hell off of Juggie! So he played with matches once and got bullied. He's right, his name is JUGHEAD afterall. And Fred just alibied him out.... I love Dylan McKay Fred. FORGE THAT TIMECARD!!! FP is drunk (shocking), but thankfully he tells Juggie to go with Archie/Fred. It's so cute that Juggie walked Betty home.... and then she figured out where Polly was hiding and kissed him from gratitude (and his general kiss worthiness) and yes.... you two are "what people like us do" and stuff! *insert heart eyes here* But if y'all (Betty & Polly) thought that those Blossoms weren't up to some funny business, y'all are crazy. So, Polly is just gonna hide at Veronica's? Cool. WHY DOES FP HAVE JASON BLOSSOM'S LETTERMAN JACKET?!!?!

Jughead's Input: "What makes a place feel like home? Is it warmth and familiarity? Some idealized, make-believe TV version of the American Dream? Is it love and acceptance? Or is it simply safety?"

Episode (Chapter) Eight: The Outsiders

Official Synopsis: As Fred and his crew are about to start construction, he loses his crew, which could put his livelihood in jeopardy. Wanting to help his dad, Archie and his friends pitch in to help, but after one of them is attacked, the gang comes up with a plan that lands them in Southside Serpent territory. With Jughead’s secret revealed, he is worried about how his friends will react. Meanwhile, Veronica and Betty suggest throwing Polly a baby shower to make her feel better, but Polly is hesitant knowing how everyone feels.

My thoughts: What exactly are those two boys doing in that room that makes it smell so bad? Like, I've seen that you both shower.... what the hell?! Fred's ENTIRE crew just up and quit, because of that stupid Blossom dad (Clifford)?! So much for loyalty. And the boys all have his back?!! Whoop whoop!! Let's get Archie, Juggie, Kevin (YAY, KEVIN!), Moose, and that there dude to work. Don't go out there Moose.... it's dark.... something bad is about to happen. TOLD YOU. Damn you, Clifford Blossom! Don't go to that bar, Archie! That's a bad idea and quit giving Juggie lip over it, YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND. I love that not only did FP have to save their asses, but that he also called Fred.... he really is trying to be an adult. Don't you yell at Jughead, Archie, especially at Polly's baby shower that he's totally only there because of Betty for! Asshole. And now Juggie is embarrassed, because he didn't want everybody knowing his dad was a gang leader.... but Betty wants to know everything if they're going to be together, because YOU GUYS ARE TOGETHER and I love the cuteness. Here we go with a Juggie/Archie reunion, y'all are brothers! And FP got guys together to help Fred out with his crew problem?! Like and they're getting through this and having a real heart-to-heart moment and shit?! Damn y'all, I love it. I mean, I get that Polly is still angry at their mom (Alice) for sending her away.... but with the dad kicked out (kick that piece of crap out, Alice!) and everything more accepted she's gonna go home, right?! Nope, she's going to Thornhill mansion.... what. the. f*ck.

Jughead's Input: "The Coopers. The Stepfords of Riverdale. High school sweethearts, who got married, and had two beautiful daughters, Polly and Betty. Until Jason Blossom happened."

Episode (Chapter) Nine: La Grande Illusion

Official Synopsis: Archie reluctantly agrees to escort Cheryl to her family’s official start of maple syrup tapping, because he gets an offer that could help his future. Archie starts to become skeptical of the real reason the Blossoms are so eager to help him, however he gets some helpful information for Betty about her sister. Veronica is trying to be nice and unbeknownst to her, befriends a classmate that her father’s illegal doings has hurt. Hermione is conflicted about telling Fred the truth. Meanwhile, Alice is ready to get revenge on the Blossoms once and for all with the help of her two daughters.

My thoughts: I may never eat maple syrup after watching this. Those people take Stepford to a whole new level. How do they not see how creepy they all are at this point?! Cheryl wants Archie to take her to her family's annual tree tapping? Also, her family has an annual tree tapping ceremony? Ok, I'm just gonna let that one go. Of course, Archie is going to take Cheryl to that ceremony shit, like, y'all are offering him acceptance to one of the most prestigious music academies ever.... bitch is going. And Betty is all for it so Archie can talk to Polly for her. Damn Barb Ethel Muggs, sad shit: "they put me in a wooden box... as I desperately opposed.... but all my screaming was for naught.... my mouth had been sewn closed." Like, somebody get this girl a friend.... insert Veronica. I don't think Ethel's family is gonna take it too well once they figure out that their daughter's friend is the daughter of the guy that caused all of their problems.... and now Ethel's dad tried to kill himself. Yep, definitely not going to take that good. Hermione told Fred about the land owner?! AH!! He's gonna stick with this shit, but y'all are DONE. Archie, I know you're trying to be nice to Cheryl and all.... but that girl has been through alot and if you can't see that she likes you, you're dumber than I thought.... yep, definitely dumber. Now you gotta go "make up" with Valerie and she ain't having it. Good thing that whole night wasn't a total bust, go tell they guys what you heard the Blossoms talking about. Damn Cheryl, back to coloring over people's faces with markers, huh? A little overreaction if you ask me. Polly is a spy?! Alice through a brick through the town newspapers window and now she's gonna go write with Betty and Jughead at the school newspaper.... this isn't going to end well.  

Jughead's Input: "Thicker than blood, more precious than oil. Riverdale’s big business, is maple syrup. Since the town’s founding, one family has controlled its lucrative syrup trade: the Blossoms. They were a part of the fabric of our daily lives. Rich or poor, old or young, we consumed Blossom syrup by the bucket. That sickly sweet smell was inescapable. The death of Jason Blossom precipitated a crisis, with the heir apparent gone, who would inherit the family business one day? Certainly not Cheryl. It was a question that brought the wolves to Riverdale, and now, the Blossoms were circling the wagons against possible attack, from within their own ranks."

Getting better every day.

It's been a little over three weeks since we had to rush Momma to the ER, it'll be three weeks tomorrow since she had to have emergency surgery, and a little over two weeks since I got to bring her home. While there has been a lot of adjustments, and we continue to learn about new ones everyday, the improvement that she has been making has been phenomenal.

And I'm usually one of those, "knock on wood" "don't jinx it" kind of people, but I am also one of those people that like to give credit where credit is due and tell people how proud I am of someone when I truly am.

So, here I am. Telling and sharing.... even if it happens to be usually against my will on the personal front.

Today was a good day. -Ice Cube 😂 7/15.

A post shared by Katie Hopwood (@kdhopwood) on Jul 15, 2017 at 12:57pm PDT

Momma's incision has been closing up nicely and she has an appointment next Thursday to see about getting her staples out.... which will probably make things feel a little bit better on the healing front. Tomorrow will be the first time she's been out for an appointment since she's come home.... but she did get out with me a couple of days after we got home to go to the grocery store and pick up some meds. She really wore herself out that day, but she was so insanely happy to get out for a bit.

Other than that we've been mainly chilling and taking it easy, all while still putting in the work to get better and stronger every day. To say that she's impressive would be an understatement.

There was a Physical Therapist (PT) that came out once and gave us some really good advice/pointers on getting around until she's more comfortable/steady.... and he told me it's extremely helpful that I've has training in that field (healthcare, that is). And she has an RN that comes out once/twice a week, named Jenny and she's been great and Momma really likes her.

I returned to work the week after I got to bring her home and while I go home on my lunch breaks, my family has been insanely helpful when it comes to day to day life. One of my aunts comes and stays with her during the day when I'm at work and in the evenings and on weekends it's just the two of us (don't even get me started on my brother).

And honestly, since I've gotten my license, life has become easier. She doesn't worry about me driving and I don't have to wait to go get something that she may need. We've settled into a little groove/routine, I guess you could say for the moment. She's still down a little more than usual, because of the meds and all, but still in incredibly high spirits and making some of the most hilarious jokes that you've ever heard.

It's definitely been a learning curve for us, but like I always say.... we got this.

My thoughts on the first season of Riverdale. (Part II).

I have come to realize that while I could have split this whole Riverdale Season One recapping into two posts (or even one giant post), I would rather split it up even more, because I'm difficult and do things that are random.... not unlike Jughead Jones.

Or, Betty Cooper. Speaking of which, why aren't Betty Cooper and Jughead just together and living happily (ok, happily is a far stretch in Riverdale) ever after. Let's get on that people.

Moving on. (Read Part I here).

Episode (Chapter) Four: The Last Picture Show

Official Synopsis: When Jughead learns that an anonymous buyer has plans to tear down the local drive-in, he fights desperately to keep it open. Betty finds her friendship with Archie on the line after stumbling upon some startling information she’s uncovered about Ms. Grundy’s past. Elsewhere, Veronica confronts her mother, Hermione, about a suspicious meeting she witnessed between her mother and a shady Southside Serpent. Finally, after uncovering Betty’s diary, Alice finds the perfect opportunity to destroy Archie’s golden boy image.

My thoughts: I knew it wouldn't take Betty long to figure out what was going on between Archie and Ms. Grundy, she's too damn smart for all of that mess. And yes dude, we're on the same wavelength, I don't think he should be banging his teacher either. Wait until Dylan McKay Luke Perry Fred finds out about this shit. THANK YOU, BETTY. Yes, we are all (with the exception of Archie apparently) aware that this is ILLEGAL and gross. Pick your battles, girl.... I know you're about to find proof, just like Juggie would. Seriously, why aren't y'all dating at this point?! I would be upset about the Twilight Drive-In closing too! Aw, Juggie is living there? CAN SOMEBODY JUST LOVE THIS GUY ALREADY, PLEASE?!! Great choice with Rebel Without A Cause (and don't think I didn't see that look you gave Betty when she mentioned it). What is Veronica's mom up to? Ugh, so much shit is going down! Of course, there is more going on than just the drive-in closing down and Veronica's dad has pull from inside prison.... am I the only one that's ever watched a mob movie?! I hate Betty's mom (Alice), but I mean, I'm not sad she called this shit out so somebody can do something about Ms. Grundy.... what? Annnnddd.... she's just going to leave town. Like, because that's what she does, because she was in an abusive marriage? Dude, I feel for you, but you still can't go around banging your students!! Ew, seriously? I see how you're looking at those teen boys.... no lesson learned, but I'm glad you're leaving town. Leave your mark, Juggie, I understand. Wait, what does that biker want with Juggie? Wait, that biker is Skeet Ulrich! And he's Juggie's dad?! BILLY F*CKING LOOMIS IS OLD ENOUGH TO PLAY A REGULAR DAD TOO?!! Mind. Blown.

Jughead's Input: "It's been a week since the discovery of Jason Blossom’s body. But his death would not be the first, nor would it be the last casualty that the town of Riverdale would suffer. The Twilight Drive-In, where I work; my home away from home. A piece of town history is closing for good, just when we needed a place to escape to the most. With Sheriff Keller knocking on every door, and neighbor suspecting neighbor, every day that passes is becoming more like Salem during the witch trials. And meanwhile, the girl next door, our friendly neighborhood Hitchcock blonde, Betty Cooper, was wrestling with knowledge that her best friend Archie Andrews was caught up in a forbidden romance."

Episode (Chapter) Five: Heart of Darkness

Official Synopsis: With Jason’s funeral around the corner, the Blossom family moves forward with last minute preparations- and a secret agenda. Meanwhile, Archie’s attempt to refocus his energy on football comes to a halt when an opportunity to work with a new music mentor presents itself. Betty dives deeper into her investigation of Jason’s death and unearths some dark revelations about her family. Elsewhere, after uncovering secrets about her own family, Veronica forms an unlikely friendship with Cheryl, who is having a tougher time with Jason’s impending funeral than she lets on. Finally, Hermione turns to Fred for help after receiving a cryptic message from the Southside Serpents.

My thoughts: Look at how Betty looks at dressed up (up? funeralish?) Jughead.... and he's blushing!! Gothic Nightmare is the understatement of the century when it comes to the life of Cheryl Blossom and her family. How do none of these people think that Cheryl was a little too close to her brother? Like, where are those rumors?! Not sure, but Cheryl, I'm starting to think that you'd be fine if it wasn't for your psychotic family (ie your mom). Why would Cheryl invite Veronica over for a sleepover?! Because I wouldn't want to deal with her family alone either.... and her parents are just gonna make fun of her grieving over her dead brother? Damn, these people f*cking suck, no wonder Cheryl is off in the damn head. Oh hell no, y'all can forbid her from taking part in her brothers funeral, but she isn't going to take it lying down. TOLD YOU. Walking up into that bitch like she owned it in a white dress? Game, set, mother f*cking match. Oh shit! Betty and Juggie are looking for clues about Jason's murder/Polly in general (I totally knew there was more to this).... and Cheryl's grandma scared them!! Ha! Juggie is all cool and laid back.... and scared by little ole ladies. Look at him hide behind Betty!! *uncontrollable laughter here* I love these two. What?! Jason and Polly were engaged?! And Cheryl was helping him escape?! And, and, what?!! I'm glad Archie turned down the captain spot on the football team.... he's got enough for now. So.... Jughead thinks Betty's parents may have something to do with killing Jason? Seems legit, they did lock Polly away somewhere, because you know that girl is not crazy like they're saying. You're right Juggie, you guys HAVE to find and talk to Polly asap.

Jughead's Input: "Every town has one. The spooky house that all kids avoid. Ours was Thornhill, the Blossom family’s mansion, with its very own graveyard. And, trapped within its walls like some gothic heroine, was Cheryl Blossom. Still grieving for her beloved brother, Jason. Linked in death even as they were in life."

Episode (Chapter) Six: Faster, Pussycats! Kill! Kill!

Official Synopsis: With Riverdale High’s annual variety show around the corner, Valerie’s efforts to help Archie prepare for his big performance lead to some major fallout between her and Josie. Meanwhile, Betty and Jughead’s investigation into Jason’s death brings them to a home for troubled youth and face-to-face with Polly. Just as her relationship with her mother was on the upswing, an unexpected betrayal sends Veronica spiraling, while Josie deals with her own pressures at home after her overbearing father returns for her performance at the variety show. Finally, Hermione’s first day at Andrews Construction finds her and Fred growing closer.

My thoughts: I knew Betty would find her sister with Jughead's help.... he looks so incredibly uncomfortable at that breakfast table. Like, you know he's got some serious feelings for Betty to be dealing with her crazy ass mom that early in the morning. What is Sisters of Quiet Mercy? That sounds like one of those old school "Homes for Unwed Mothers" from back in the day. Do those still exist?! Apparently they do, because there's Polly and her big ole prego belly! Y'all it's 2017, quit locking that girl away. She doesn't know that Jason is dead? Oy vey.... this is gonna get interesting. Annndddd.... there's Alice Cooper (I still can't get over her being named Alice Cooper) to swoop in a take Betty away from Polly. Look at Juggie going at those nurses when they get on Betty! Don't talk to those parents of yours Betty, you'll just end up pulling your own hair out. Hey, there's Jughead climbing up a ladder to your window. "Hey there, Juliet" love it. Aw, he came to comfort her and make sure she's ok. Like father like son (you know, because Jughead's dad is Billy Loomis and he crawled through Syd's window?! Not important). Also? Also What?! ALSO?! Ah! Jughead just 100% went for it and kissed Betty Cooper.... and she is t-totally loving it. The car?! You mean, Polly and Jason's car? Yeah, you call her out on thinking about that during you guys' moment, Juggie! Y'all can pick this conversation up later, go see if you can find the car! Oh yeah, I forgot this whole Archie/Veronica/Josie and the Pussycats talent show thing. Go back to the Pussycats, Val, that's where you belong! And she does. And Archie sings alone.... and he's not half bad, Dylan McKay his dad looks so proud!! Then again, he was making out with Veronica's mom awhile ago, so he's batting strong today. Of course, they (Betty & Jughead) found the car with Jason's letterman jacket in it.... and then they went to get the sheriff and when they got back the CAR WAS ON FIRE. Betty, are you and Juggie going to find Polly?! There's a thunderstorm, this looks ominous. Polly's window is broken and she's gone?! WHAT IS HAPPENING?!! Annnnddd.... Archie is just gonna kiss Valerie too? Like, so on the list so far we have Ms. Grundy, Veronica, that other person, and now Valerie too? Dude, this is the sixth episode, CALM DOWN.

Jughead's Input: "Fear. It’s the most basic, the most human emotion. As kids, we’re afraid of everything. The dark… The boogeyman under the bed… And we pray for morning. For the monsters to go away. Though they never do. Not really. Just ask Jason Blossom."
___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Final Thoughts Halfway(ish) Through: Holy hell, I want to completely ignore the fact that I have adult responsibilities and stay home to binge-watch this. And I'm not even sorry about it.

My thoughts on the first season of Riverdale. (Part I).

So.... I kind of ran across the show Riverdale on Netflix.... and now I'm low key obsessed with it. I'm sure it's aimed at a much younger group than I am, but since it's Netflix I can get by with it right?! At least, that's what I'm going with. I mean, they might be playing teenagers (I haven't been a teen in a hot minute), but all of the cast are in their twenties (like me), so it evens out?!

If not, here we are anyways, because that show is damn good. And because it makes you ask the important questions like, is it ok that I'm officially attracted to the kid that played in Big Daddy?! WHO KILLED JASON BLOOM?!

And in case you're wondering, just know, SPOILER ALERTS EVERYWHERE. Continue at your own risk (even though I usually always read spoilers when I'm watching a show, because why in the hell not?!).

Episode (Chapter) One: The River's Edge

Official Synopsis: As a new school year begins, the town of Riverdale is reeling from the tragic death of high school golden boy, Jason Bloom. Archie Andrews is still the all-American teen, but the summer’s events made him realize that he wants to pursue a career in music, not follow in his dad, Fred’s, footsteps- despite his forbidden relationship with Riverdale’s young music teacher, Ms. Grundy. With the weight of the world on his shoulders, Archie must look for a new music mentor and turns to Josie McCoy, but she is focused solely on her band, Josie and the Pussycats. Weighing heavily on his mind is also his fractured friendship with budding writer, Jughead Jones. Meanwhile, girl-next-door Betty Cooper is anxious to see her crush, Archie, after being away all summer on a writing internship, but she’s not quite ready to reveal her true feelings to him. And Betty’s nerves, which are hardly soothed by her overbearing mother, Alice, aren’t the only thing holding her back. When a new student, Veronica Lodge, arrives in town from New York with her mother, Hermione, there’s an undeniable spark between her and Archie, but Veronica doesn’t want to risk her new friendship with Betty. And then there’s Cheryl Blossom, Riverdale’s Queen Bee, who is happy to stir up trouble amongst the others even though she’s keeping a few secrets of her own.

My thoughts: That shit escalated SO quickly. First things first, those twins are borderline gross, I'm just gonna put that out there. And that whole aura around them as they're walking to the river's edge? Totally should have seen some serious shit was about to go down. All of these girls are going to be fighting over Archie? I don't get it.... then again, I always liked the weirdos when I was growing up, so what would I know about the jock. Even the music teacher?! EWWW. Betty girl, forget Archie, y'all are better off as BFF's, for real. You can do better, he literally zoned out of you as soon as the dark haired chick appeared. Isn't there supposed to be a character of Jughead somewhere in this, where is he? There he is.... annnddddd.... I'm officially attracted to one of the kids from Big Daddy. Great. Luke Perry is old enough to play a dad? Like, not a young dad, but a regular dad? WHAT IS LIFE?!! Oh snap, that kid didn't drown, **half-heartedly singing to myself** somebody's gonna get in trouble. Also, River Vixens? Catchy name for a cheer squad. I LOVE KEVIN.

Jughead's Input: "Our story is about a town, a small town, and the people who live in the town. From a distance, it presents itself like so many other small towns all over the world; safe, decent, innocent. Get closer, though, and you start seeing the shadows underneath. The name of our town is Riverdale."   /////   "By morning, everyone would be talking, texting, and posting about it. We’d all be feeling it. But the world around us had changed. Maybe forever. That Riverdale wasn’t the same town as before. That it was a town of shadows and secrets now. On Monday, the autopsy on Jason’s body would take place. And on Tuesday, halfway through fifth period, the first arrest would be made."

Episode (Chapter) Two: A Touch of Evil

Official Synopsis: As new details of Jason’s death begin to emerge, Archie pleads with Ms. Grundy to come forward with what they heard at Sweetwater River. Betty makes an effort to mend her friendship with Archie, but takes a different stance with Veronica, who is trying to make up for her actions. With rumors around her brother’s death running rampant, Cheryl deals with the pressure in true Queen Bee fashion, while tensions boil over when Jughead stumbles upon a secret Archie was hoping to keep hidden. Finally, plans for the annual fall pep rally move forward with a performance by Josie and the Pussycats and a special appearance by Mayor McCoy. 

My thoughts: Archie dude, you need to listen to Jughead and not that Grundy chick. And by chick, I mean, teacher and quit banging your teacher, because it's gross. TELL THE POPO, FOOL. I don't care how pissed off Betty is at Veronica right at the moment, revenge is not worth having to spend an allotted amount of time with Cheryl.... and the memory of her creepy/possibly incestuous relationship with her soulmate brother. Besides, Archie is not your boyfriend, Betty, and Veronica (while what she did was a bit sleazy) brought you flowers and cupcakes as a peace offering, just take it, except what is.... and go make out with Jughead, because I'm still not sure why people prefer Archie over him? You know what y'all shouldn't do though? Give crazy ass Cheryl a scalpel of any kind. Speaking of Cheryl, she made Betty go crazy for a hot second and it was awesome! But seeing her dead brother run out when it was really Archie and having a nervous breakdown? Damn, that's enough to at least feel a little something borderlining sympathy for Cheryl. Of course, the boys (Jughead & Archie) want to join you gals (Betty & Veronica) at Pop's!!

Jughead's Input: "I think many of us, maybe the entire town, had been hoping against hope that somehow Jason Blossom hadn’t drowned on July 4^th. That we’d come to school Monday morning, and there Jason would be. Or that we’d see him and Cheryl in a booth at Pop’s. But that was before the undeniable, irrevocable fact of his bloated, water-logged body, a corpse with a bullet hole in its forehead, and terrible secrets that could only be revealed by the cold, steel blade of a coroner’s autopsy scalpel, or the telltale beating of a guilty heart." 

Episode (Chapter) Three: Body Double

Official Synopsis: After new information surrounding Jason’s death comes to light, Cheryl finds herself under a cloud of suspicion and forced to come clean about the last time she saw her brother. Meanwhile, Archie makes a tough decision that puts a major strain on his relationship with Ms. Grundy. Elsewhere, Betty decides to revive the school newspaper and asks for Jughead’s help in investigation Jason’s death. Veronica and Ethel work on exposing some of Riverdale High’s football players after rumors of a “shame book” begin to circulate. Finally, after getting grounded by his dad, Fred, Archie must figure out a way to make it to the Taste of Riverdale event where Josie and the Pussycats will be performing a song he helped write. 

My thoughts: Aw, Betty wants Jughead's help reviving the school newspaper.... and look at those little puppy eyes he's giving her. You know, Rebel Without A Cause Jughead may have just found his cause afterall. It's cute that he's pretending that he's thinking about this like he's not just going to say yes to Betty (I think somebody has a crush- and they should just date), even though he totally is. Calm down, Capote, you know you wanna. Veronica don't trust that jock, sweetie. **five minutes later** Told you. Ew, what is a sticky maple? That sounds gross. *Googles what a sticky maple is* OMG, DON'T EVER GOOGLE THAT AGAIN!! Hey, is that Barb from Stranger?! IT IS! These girls are out for blood.... and they win!! Damn Black Betty, calm down.... that might have even scared Juggie. But, you go!! Ha! #Justice4Ethel I love it. Am I the only one that just isn't into this Josie and the Pussycats subplot? Maybe if they were more entwined? Oh Jughead, you really are digging into my investigative journalistic heart.... tell those boy scouts what's what!! Oh shit, the scout saw Ms. Grundy's car there? Did he see Archie too? I love how Juggie can just keep the same emotionless face even though he knows shit is about to go down. Seriously Archie, STOP BANGING YOUR TEACHER.

Jughead's Input: "Guilt. Innocence. Good. Evil. Life. Death. As the shadows around Riverdale deepened, the lines that separated these polar opposites blurred and distorted. “I’m guilty,” Cheryl said in biology class, but of what?"

4,017 days (give or take one or two) late.

So.... on Tuesday (7/18) I went and took my Driver's test. And.... I actually passed it on the first try. Now, I know you're thinking, "but Katie, you're twenty-seven, why didn't you already have your license?" and to that I say, let that shit go.

Like, Elsa would.

This past December I had went and gotten my permit and while I wanted to go and take the test exactly six months later (how long I had to hold the permit) I was unaware of the fact that you had to schedule your exam.

I mean, it might be like 4,017 days (give or take) late, but that's not the point. 🚗 7/18.

A post shared by Katie Hopwood (@kdhopwood) on Jul 18, 2017 at 3:12pm PDT

Back in the day you could just go into the BMV and they had someone there to give you your exam just like every other thing.... then again, they also used to make your license plates and ID cards/licenses right there that day and now they give you a paper substitute and you have to wait for 10-14 business days to receive them via mail, but I digress.

I tried to make my appointment online, but it doesn't allow you to make the appointments more than two weeks in advance and they had NOTHING in that time frame. So, when Momma and I had to go in and get our plates for Ricardo I went ahead and scheduled it.

And then proceeded to have a constant anxiety attack for the next three to four weeks.

But, aside from my little insecurities, I'm fairly comfortable in my car now. I'm still scared shitless in others, but I'm pretty good in mine. And while that doesn't sound like a big "to do" to anybody else, it is to me, as it's a fear that I've been struggling with for the past eight years.

I decided to try and overcome this fear months ago and slowly, but surely have made progress. At least, that's what they keep telling me. And by "they" I mean me and my occasional passenger. With everything that's been happening with Momma, between the eye surgeries, and her emergency surgery, (not too mention her stroke three years ago), I really couldn't have made this decision at a better time (except if I would have made it like, ten years ago- NOT THE POINT).

Now, I have a license. Like, not a baby license, but a regular one. You know what this means? Watch out, people.

And by "watch out" I mean, I drive the speed limit and try to follow all the rules of the road, so I'm not one of those "I don't know how to use my f*cking blinker" type of people.