This episode was my favorite of the season so far. Some times parents need a break. They don't feel they deserve them or they feel guilt for wanting one- and I love that parenthood did a tribute to the parent's desire for "me time".

This is really a great show, and the writing, directing and acting are all top notch. My favorite scene was when the girls were all chatting and drinking wine and they were all talking over each other-addressing one another in an off the cuff and less dialoguey way. So realistic.

Anyway, reading a review when the reviewer does more than complaining is so refreshing. Actually made me want to post and participate... something I am not usually enticed to do when the review is all negative all the time.

I liked this episode because it was not wrapped up like a visual Hallmark card, as had so may previous installments. I do think Adam is taken for granted by his sisters who then turn opn him rapidly (the soda shop scene) when what he says is not what they want to hear. And his wife volunteering him for more duties is just absurd and unfair. Just because he makes things look easy does not mean they are easy.
And Sarah needs to stop being a Cougar and hurting her daughter. Parental responsibility comes first. If she is gonna sleep around with an inappropriate mate, then her daughter will do the same and she can't hammer her.

Jane, thanks so much for filling in, now please take it over going forward! You like the show... it was the first words you typed in the review. Can Danny say that? I know you're already reviewing V on tuesdays, but we'd all prefer you. If anyone would prefer DG, speak up... :: crickets ::

I thought it was great to see how Haddie was excited by Julia. Up to now, Julia has been given no real support by anyone. They all seem to judge her, even herself. I think she even ended up somehow the bad guy in the incident where her husband had been kissed by that other tramp. Her feelings of guilt over being a successful woman are valid, but so is her life valid... and Haddie brought a touch of validity to her that none of the rest of the Braverman clan has seemed willing to give to Julia.

But all that did was create feelings of insecurity and doubt in Kristina... wondering where she lost herself. She had the same dilemma as Adam in this episode, she just processes differently. They both feel tugged in certain ways, him into his schedule and the expectations of others and her into being a mom and sublimating herself in the process.

I have fallen for this show.

btw, some people are suggesting you might look at the show from a different perspective... less focus on the romantic relationships... My $.02, focus on the the relationships the title tells you to. The show is all about being a parent and a child. Every aspect is about THAT. There are other elements that factor into that, like how to deal with romance and still deal with your kids, whether you're married, single and dating, or retired and unhappy... it's all told through the lens of the parent/child relationship, regardless of who or what it is... by a specific focus first and foremost on Parenthood, you'll be able to touch on everything you want, but you'll also more easily see and explore the full impact of the show.

Thanks again!

And please, let this be permanent.

I agree with both Marali and Charles. It is delightfully refreshing to read a recap from someone who actually likes the show. All too often lately, it seems the recaps on TV Squad are more about bashing the show instead of recapping.

That being said, I would prefer more of a recap/discussion of the issues in the show than the "crushing on the actors".

I also felt ominous when Adam paddled out into the surf.

I'm so loving this show - if it goes away, I will be crushed. I love all the characters. Gosh, it is a great show. I need a tick more Craig T. Nelson - his character is so macho and overbearing but still lovable.

Peter Krause at the beach and Six Feet Under - made the visual connection too.

Good review, I appreciated your enthusiasm!

I also wanted to chime in and say thank you for such a positive review! I had honestly almost stopped reading because of his reviews. I am so glad that someone can appreciate a show that isn't "like" all the other shows and wants to be "real". I can't wait to watch last nights episode now!

Jane,
I must say (in agreement to the comment above) your post was delightfully opposite from Danny G.s. I think we had all found it painful to read his recaps. Anyway, I thought the same thing when Adam was staring out at the beach.. hmmm.. this is familiar (6 ft. under). And with Lauren Graham with Ambers father.. .that looks familiar too (Gilmore Girls). but, I am not liking the fact that Sarah told Amber about them the day before the SAT test. I mean... honestly, who wants their mom dating their teacher.. let along be it the one your crushing on? Anyone else wonders where Drew is (Sarah's son??) Is he still in the shower?????? Good job Jane. Also, not IN LOVE with the show yet, but i like the dynamic differences of each character.

http://tvtime101.wordpress.com/2010/04/13/parenthood-whats-goin-on-down-there-cha-cha-cha-chia/

Any chance you can recap any show that has both male and female adult characters and not make it sound like an episode of The Dating Game?

This hour dealt with folks questioning critical elements in their lives--career, family commitments, children--and dealing with fundamental life changes...and you choose to focus on your personal parenting preferences and soap opera hookup issues. Is the review supposed to be about the show or about you?

I love the gilmore girls references that keep popping up. I wonder how intentional they are.

"Nobody has ever sent me flowers at work before."