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The Testament

Season One, Episode Ten: “Secateurs”

The episode opens with Agnes is thinking about Becka. She gets up and sees the spot a spot of blood on the bathroom floor; she wipes it up. She goes downstairs but is unable to eat. When Agnes arrives at school, everyone seems to notice that something is wrong and begins wondering what happened. Shunammite is especially curious and starts asking questions when she sees Agnes come in.

Becka is tied down to a bed at the facility when Aunt Lydia goes to visit her. Becka refuses to speak to Aunt Lydia, showing just how frightened and distrustful she is. Aunt Lydia then sees Commander Judd and asks what will happen to Becka. He suggests that Becka could become a Handmaid, which makes the situation even more disturbing because Becka has no say in what happens to her.

The Aunts gathered the girls together and tell them that Becka would not be coming back to school. The girls know Agnes knows why. Agnes runs out to see Garth and asks him questions. She cries on his shoulder. Aunt Estee comes to get her saying she cannot be seen with a man. She goes back inside. The girls see Agnes come back in. She takes them to the bathroom. Agnes goes on to tell them that Becka killed her Dad. That the Eyes took her and they will never see her again. Agnes suggests they do something for her. Agnes walks out and goes to find the Aunts. She sees Aunt Vidalia and demands that they do something for Becka, that she thought they were there to protect them. Aunt Vidalia is shocked. She tries to explain, but Agnes says tells her they lied to them. Go head on Agnes.! This is the bravery we have been waiting to see from her. She knows there could be serious consequences for questioning the Aunts, but she does it anyway. For the first time, Agnes is beginning to stand up for herself and for Becka.

Daisy goes out looking for Garth. When she sees him, she flags him over and tells him that Becka is gone. Daisy says she will do something about it on her own, but then she quits. Garth is worried about her, and it is clear that Daisy is on edge. She seems determined to do something, but at the same time, she is struggling with fear and unsure what will happen next.

Commander Weston goes to see Agnes, but at first, she doesn’t say a word. He gets Agnes alone and asks her how she is doing. Agnes finally opens up and tells him that she is concerned about Becka. She explains that Becka protected his future wife and asks him to help get her out. Agnes also tells him that she was one of the girls that Doctor Grove attacked. Commander Weston is shocked and doesn’t know what to say, but he promises Agnes that he will do what he can to help her friend. This is another important moment for Agnes because she is willing to speak up and ask for help, even when she knows how dangerous the situation could be.

Garth gets on the radio and is told that they received his message and will take care of Daisy. Later that day, Daisy receives a message telling her where to meet the contact. She seems relieved and happy that someone is finally listening to her. After everything she has been dealing with, it feels like she finally has someone on her side.

Becca’s taken to her home and Commander Weston tells her that she will be under protection, but she can only stay at the house for 24 hours. Her mother comes out crying and is overwhelmed with happiness to see her daughter again. It is an emotional moment because Becka is finally back with her family, even if only temporarily. Commander Weston did keep his word to Agnes, but at what cost? He was able to get Becka out, but her situation is far from safe, and there is still so much uncertainty about what will happen to her next.

It’s dark outside and Daisy gets out of bed and quietly leaves the school. She meets a man who has her get into a container so she won’t be seen by anyone. She is taken to a location near a dock, where June is waiting for her. June hugs Daisy and tells her to follow her because she is getting her out of Gilead. But Daisy has changed her mind. She tells June that she wants to stay and protect the girls. She begins naming the girls, including Agnes. June stops and asks, “Agnes Mackenzie?” Daisy then realizes that Agnes is June’s daughter. Daisy confirms it and tells June how Agnes is doing. You can see the emotion on June’s face as she listens to Daisy talk about her daughter. June tells Daisy that she is not listening to her handler and that they need to leave. Daisy continues to plead her case, explaining why she feels she needs to stay. Eventually, June agrees to let her stay. Daisy gets back on the truck, choosing to remain in Gilead and continue protecting the girls. This was moment that Daisy had the chance to leave, but she chose to stay. Not because she wanted to stay in Gilead, but because she felt the girls needed her.

Aunt Vidala goes to see Aunt Lydia, who thinks she is there to push her out. Instead, Aunt Vidala asks Lydia why she has never liked her. Lydia tells her that everything seemed to come easily for her. Aunt Vidala responds that Aunt Lydia has no idea what she has been through. She reminds Aunt Lydia that she was willing to kill her at the stadium. Then she tells Aunt Lydia that she doesn’t have to work alone—they need to help Becka. The stadium! Now it makes sense! This is such a huge reveal because Aunt Vidala is Vivian from Canada.

The truck gets back to Gilead too late, and Garth goes to get Daisy. He tells her to smoke a cigarette before they go in. Daisy is then taken to Aunt Lydia, who scolds her for smoking. Daisy apologizes, but Aunt Lydia tells her that she will be taken to Corrections—wherever that is. Daisy then explains that she was worried about Becka and that is why she exposed Dr. Grove. She asks Aunt Lydia what they are doing to help Becka. That turned out well for Daisy! That could have gone in a very different direction. Daisy took a huge risk, but instead of making things worse for herself, she may have actually helped bring more attention to what will happened to Becka.

Aunt Lydia and Aunt Vidala go to see Becka to get the details of what happened. They tell her that Becka heard a noise and found her mother standing over the bathroom shower holding shears. Becka looks confused as they explain that she was the one who tried to help her father. But Becka immediately says that is not what happened. Then Becka’s mother takes the blame and says she was the one who did it. It is heartbreaking because Becka knows her mother is willing to take the blame for what happened. Her mother’s confession changes everything for Becka and may give her a chance to be free. The Aunts and Becka pray together, making the moment even more emotional.

Agnes is on the couch in the living room when Commander McKenzie comes in and tells her that Commander Weston had called off the wedding due to her close ties with Becka. He said it made no sense and asked Becca why he would do that. Agnes said she didn’t know. Agnes asked what would happen to her and he promised that he’s not going to let anything hurt her. Agnes went on to ask about Becka. He says that she is going to be okay, that Becca’s mom gave a statement that she killed Doctor Grove and not Becka. Agnes is shocked but lays back down on the couch.

Now I’m wondering, what happens to Agnes now that she is no longer getting married? Her whole future was planned around that marriage, and now everything has changed. With Commander Weston calling off the wedding because of her connection to Becka, Agnes’ future is completely unknown and in Gilead, that could mean anything. Will they make her a Handmaid? That is definitely something to worry about, especially knowing how Gilead treats girls who no longer fit into the future that was planned for them.

Agnes wakes up when she hears someone in the bathroom. Paula is in there mopping the floor. Paula tells Agnes that she knows she had something to do with Commander Weston calling off the wedding. Agnes says she doesn’t know anything about it, but Paula doesn’t believe her. Paula is clearly drunk and tells Agnes that she and Becka are now fallen women. Then Paula reveals something that could change everything for Agnes. She tells her about the Handmaid who was Agnes’ mother. This is a huge moment because Paula is finally telling Agnes something about her past that she has been kept from knowing.

Agnes goes to Garth and tells him that he has to marry Becka. She says she is willing to put her own feelings aside because she wants Becka to have a future and be protected. Garth tells Agnes that he cannot do that, but Agnes insists that he is a man in Gilead and men can make things happen. It shows how determined Agnes is to protect Becka, even if it means putting her own feelings aside.

Becka is getting ready for her wedding ceremony and is given medication to keep her calm. At the same time, her mother is being taken away to be executed. Agnes helps Becka get dressed, and the two share a kiss. Becka smiles, but Agnes looks worried. It is such a heartbreaking moment because Becka is getting dressed for a wedding while her mother is being taken to her death. The contrast makes the scene even more emotional.

Commander Judd swears Garth in as a Commander. Meanwhile, Becka’s mother is brought out crying and placed before a group of men, where she is hanged. It is a heartbreaking scene, especially knowing that Becka is about to be married at the same time. Becka then comes out to meet Garth at the altar, escorted by Aunt Vidala. The two are married while Agnes watches from the balcony, with Aunt Lydia nearby. The contrast between the wedding and Becka’s mother’s execution is very disturbing. Gilead is celebrating a new marriage while carrying out an execution at the same time. It really shows the darkness behind the image of Gilead’s perfect society.

Garth takes Becka to a car. Daisy asks Agnes how she feels and she says it’s done. Daisy tells Agnes she is exactly like her mother. Agnes asked who? Daisy says June Osborne. Agnes gets upset and calls her birth mother a terrorist. But why, Agnes? Is that what you have been told your whole life? Daisy tries to reassure her, explaining that June was not just a Handmaid; she was The Handmaid. Then Daisy says to Agnes she thinks her real name was Hannah. This is such a huge moment! Agnes is finally getting pieces of the truth about her mother, but she has been taught to see June as a terrorist. Now she has to decide for herself what to believe. And that revelation about the name Hannah. Wow! That should change everything for Agnes.

Garth takes Becka to their new home and brings her upstairs to a room. Becka is still drugged, so he lays her down, closes the door, and locks it behind him. What is up with that, Garth? Are you locking Becka in because you think she will try to run away? Were you given instructions to do that, or are you actually trying to protect her? After everything Becka has been through, it is hard to know whether Garth is protecting her or simply following Gilead’s rules. Either way, I don’t like that locked door! What is going to happen to Becka now?

Agnes goes home and pulls out a drawing she made when she was younger. On the back of the drawing is the name Hannah. As she looks at it, Agnes begins to remember writing the name herself. This is such an important moment because it confirms that Hannah has been inside Agnes all along, even though she has been taught to forget or deny that part of herself. Daisy’s words are starting to connect with Agnes’s own memories. She is beginning to remember who she really is.

June comes out of her house and is startled when she sees a jar of honey waiting for her. There is a note with it, and she assumes it is from Daisy. The note lets June know that Daisy is okay and that she has decided to start her own army. She reminds June that there is nothing more powerful than a teenage girl. I love this moment because Daisy has gone from being scared and unsure of what to do to realizing that she has her own power. She may be young, but she is determined to protect the girls and fight back in her own way.

Agnes is called to Aunt Lydia’s, who tells her that the broken engagement will be marked against her. Agnes then says her mother is June Osborne. Aunt Lydia is stunned and admits that she knew Agnes’ mother very well. She tells Agnes that June never gave up on her. Agnes is finally hearing something positive about her mother from someone who actually knew her. After being taught that June was a terrorist, Agnes is beginning to realize that there may be another side to the story. And Aunt Lydia saying that June never gave up on her makes me wonder what else Aunt Lydia is going to tell Agnes. Aunt Lydia clearly knows so much more about June Osborne than Agnes ever imagined. Could this be the beginning of Agnes finally learning the truth about her mother and her own past?

Agnes then goes in the hallway to join her friends Daisy and Shunammite. They walk down the hall holding pinky fingers, looking straight ahead. It is such a powerful image of friendship, unity, and strength. The war is about to begin. These girls may be young, but they are beginning to realize the power they have when they stand together. After everything they have been through, something tells me this is only the beginning..

I researched the title “Secateurs.” Secateurs are small garden clippers used to cut branches and stems, but I think the title has a deeper meaning in this final episode. The secateurs represent cutting, separation, and change. Becka is separated from her mother, Agnes loses the future she expected, and Daisy chooses a different path. I also like the idea of pruning which is cutting something back so something new can grow. By the end, the girls have been through painful experiences, but they are becoming stronger and ready to fight back.

What an exciting way to end the episode! So much has changed for Agnes, Becka, and Daisy, and each of them are beginning to find her own strength. Agnes is finally learning the truth about her mother, Daisy has decided to stay and fight for the girls, and Becka is facing an uncertain future. The three girls walking together with their pinky fingers linked was such a perfect image. The war is about to begin, and I have a feeling these girls are going to have a big part in it.

I can’t wait for Season Two to come out!! After everything that happened in this season, I have so many questions and can’t wait to see what happens next. I’m definitely ready for more! Hope you enjoyed Season One as much as I did.

The Testament

Season One, Episode Nine: “Marat Sade”

This season is definitely one you will enjoy diving into. The Green girls are starting to come into their own, but of course, in true Gilead style. It’s interesting to watch them quietly begin thinking for themselves, especially Agnes. Daisy has always had a mind of her own, but now she is becoming even bolder. It’s exciting to see these girls finding their voices, even in a world that constantly tries to silence them.

This is such a chilling scene and a way to start an episode. The Pearl Girls quietly mopping up the blood while Aunt Elsie recites “an eye for an eye” makes the violence feel almost routine in Gilead. It shows how punishment is not only accepted but justified through Scripture and presented as something that is simply part of the order of things. The fact that the girls are cleaning up afterward makes you wonder what they have been taught to believe about the person who was punished and how much of this they are beginning to question..

This is such an important moment for Daisy. School is out, and the Plums have gone home for the day when the bell rings. Everyone gathers outside to see who has been blessed. The Aunts and Pearl Girls are waiting as Daisy walks out onto the stage. She gets down on her knees and tries to recite the poem, while Aunt Lydia is clearly pleased with her. It makes the moment feel even more significant. Daisy is being recognized by Gilead and rewarded for learning to follow its rules, but you can’t help wondering what is really going through her mind. She had no choice but to do this before her secret was accidentally leaked by her friends.

The next day in class, Becka asks Agnes why she hasn’t come to her house in a while. Agnes is saved from having to answer when the Aunts bring in Daisy and announce that she will be joining them as a Plum. They dress her in the purple uniform, and Daisy is now officially a Green girl. Everyone is happy for her—except Becka. She is given the task of placing the pen on Daisy’s blouse, but she purposely pokes her instead. Becka, stop being such a spoiled child! Agnes is next, and she proudly places the purple headband on Daisy’s head. This is such an interesting moment because Agnes seems genuinely happy for Daisy, while Becka’s jealousy and resentment are becoming harder to hide.

Aunt Estee tells Daisy that she has to go to her first dentist appointment, and Agnes asks if she can go with her. Becka, of course, gets upset about it. When Daisy arrives at the dentist’s office, Dr. Grove calls her into the exam room. Daisy sits and waits, expecting him to try something, but he doesn’t touch her at all. That doesn’t stop Daisy from carrying out her plan. She rips open her shirt and screams that Dr. Grove attacked her. Come on, Daisy! Do you really think that was believable? Somehow, Aunt Estee and Agnes believe her.

Daisy is called into Aunt Lydia’s office to tell her side of the story. Aunt Lydia dismisses the other Aunts, leaving the two of them alone. She questions Daisy and gives her the opportunity to explain what happened. Daisy tries hard to sound convincing, but Aunt Lydia doesn’t believe her. Still, Aunt Lydia is glad that Daisy came forward and seems more concerned about what Daisy may be trying to tell her than simply accepting the accusation. When Daisy leaves the office, Aunt Estelle is waiting for her and is devastated that she wasn’t there to protect Daisy. This is another moment that makes you wonder just how much Aunt Lydia already suspects Dr Grove.

Agnes is waiting for Daisy when she comes out and asks if she is okay. Daisy starts to get her story mixed up and doesn’t seem as concerned about what supposedly happened to her as she is about the other girls. Agnes notices the difference and tells Daisy that she doesn’t seem like she really cares. She even begins to wonder why Daisy came to Gilead in the first place. Oh boy, Daisy! You can’t keep slipping up like that! Agnes is starting to wonder about Daisy. The more questions Agnes asks, the harder it is going to be for Daisy to keep her secret hidden.

Agnes goes home and heads straight to her room, where the weight of everything that has happened finally catches up with her. She begins having a panic attack, and it’s clear that she is overwhelmed by everything she has been feeling and questioning. Between Daisy’s strange behavior, the secrets surrounding her own past, and everything she has been taught about Gilead, Agnes is reaching a breaking point. This moment really shows just how much pressure she has been carrying inside.

Commander Judd comes to see Aunt Lydia to discuss what happened with Dr. Grove. They both agree that they will wait until after Becka gets married before punishing him. This is such a disturbing decision because it shows how easily Gilead can turn punishment into a political or personal calculation. They are not questioning whether Dr. Grove is actually guilty but deciding when it will be most convenient to punish him. And with Becka’s wedding coming up, it makes you wonder what they have planned for him. I’m sure he will end up hung on the Wall. That seems like exactly the kind of punishment Gilead would use for Dr. Grove, especially after an accusation like this. The fact that Aunt Lydia and Commander Judd are already discussing when to punish him makes it feel like his fate may already be decided.

Garth is at Becka’s house, and they are waiting for Dr. Grove to come home so they can have dinner. When he finally arrives, he explains that he was delayed and then excuses himself. Mrs. Grove follows him upstairs. While they wait, Garth and Becka talk about the upcoming wedding, but Becka still looks worried. Garth does his best to calm her down and even gets her to laugh for a moment. When Dr. Grove and Mrs. Grove finally come downstairs, he tells them that he has been accused of molesting one of the Pearl Girls. Dr. Grove insists that he is innocent. Becka is shocked, but then it suddenly clicks. The only Pearl Girl who went to the dentist was Daisy.

The next day, Becka confronts Daisy and accuses her of lying about what happened with Dr. Grove. Agnes takes Becka outside to talk and tries to calm her down. Becka insists that Daisy is lying and that nothing really happened to her, but Agnes tells her that it is true. Then Agnes reveals that it happened to her too. Becka is devastated and begins to cry in disbelief. Aunt Estee comes outside and tells them they are not allowed to be outside. They can’t even show their emotions without being told what they can and cannot do? The Plums then form a circle inside and begin praying. But now I have to wonder who exactly are they praying for? Is it Dr. Grove, Daisy, Agnes, or someone else entirely? They better be praying for a plan to get out of Gilead.

Daisy calls Garth over to let him know that she is okay and asks if Dr. Grove is going to be punished. Daisy finally admits that she made up the story. Garth is furious and warns her that she could get everyone killed if she keeps acting on her own instead of following the plan. Daisy tells him that someone had to protect those girls since it didn’t seem like anyone else was going to. Garth walks away, clearly frustrated with her. I understand why Daisy did what she did, but Garth has a point. She is putting the entire plan and Mayday at risk by acting without telling anyone. At the same time, Daisy is beginning to realize that she can’t just stand by and watch these girls suffer. She wants to protect them, even if it means putting herself in danger.

Becka is home with her parents, and they are sitting down for dinner. Mrs. Grove keeps talking, trying to make everything seem normal, but there is clearly tension at the table. There is a lot of nervous chatter, but Dr. Grove eventually looks at Becka and asks her if she believes him. Becka asks him directly if the accusation is true, and he tells her no. Becka becomes very quiet. You can tell she is struggling with what she has heard and what Agnes told her. This has to be such a confusing moment for Becka because he wants to believe her father, but she also knows something isn’t adding up.

That night, Becka goes into the bathroom while her father is taking a bath and stabs him. She then puts on one of the Marthas’ coats and takes the bus to Agnes’s house. Agnes is awakened by her Martha and is shocked to see Becka standing there covered in blood. Becka tells Agnes that her father will never hurt her again. When Agnes asks what she did, Becka simply says, “He’s gone now.” Becka tells Agnes that she would do anything for her and then asks Agnes to run away with her. Agnes agrees and asks her Martha to prepare a bath for Becka. Her Martha’s expression says it all; that she clearly does not want to be involved in this mess! This is such a shocking turn for Becka. She has gone from being jealous and angry with Daisy to taking matters into her own hands to protect Agnes.

When Becka is finished cleaning up, she and Agnes go downstairs, only to find Commander Mackenzie waiting for them. The situation immediately becomes tense. Commander Mackenzie tells Becka that Garth is taking her to see a doctor, and Becka agrees to go with him. Agnes seems relieved that Becka is going to get some help. After everything that has happened, Agnes probably believes Becka is finally going somewhere safe; but in Gilead, you never really know what is waiting around the corner.

Garth takes Becka outside, but instead of taking her to a doctor, she is immediately taken by people dressed in black. As they force her into a van, Becka realizes what is happening and begins screaming Agnes’s name. Agnes tries to run outside, but her father stops her. Agnes turns to him and says she thought he was taking Becka to a real doctor. In that moment, Agnes realizes that her father has deceived her. Oh no, Agnes! She trusted her father, and now she has to face the horrible reality of what just happened to Becka. This is such a sad moment because Agnes was relieved thinking Becka was finally getting help, when instead she was being taken away.

What a great and intense episode! So much happened, and the tension kept building from beginning to end. Daisy’s risky plan, Agnes questioning everything she has been taught, Becka taking matters into her own hands, and that shocking ending with Becka being taken away gave us so much to process. After doing some research, I found that the title Marat/Sade is more than just a reference to a historical play. The connection to Dr. Grove’s bathtub scene is especially interesting since Marat was famously murdered in his bathtub. The title also fits the themes of oppression, resistance, and what happens when people are pushed to their breaking point. Becka, Agnes, and Daisy are each finding their own ways to resist Gilead, while Grove represents another side of its power and control. This episode definitely left me with a lot of questions about what happens next!

The Testament

Season One, Episode Eight: “Broken”

Agnes is dreaming about Garth, and in the dream, the two of them are dancing together when Becka suddenly interrupts them. The moment becomes heartbreaking when Agnes realizes that Becka is going to marry Garth. Agnes is clearly upset, showing just how strong her feelings for Garth have become and how difficult it is for her to accept that he may soon belong to someone else.

The plate-breaking engagement ceremony begins, and Agnes is expected to glue the broken plate back together before her wedding. The Aunts describe it as a symbol of resurrection, restoration, and preservation, representing the idea that a woman can be restored and made whole again through marriage. It is supposed to represent the marriage of an unbroken woman, but honestly, the whole ritual is just crazy talk. There is something deeply disturbing about Gilead turning a broken plate into something they can call beautiful or sacred.

Agnes and Garth are outside when he congratulates her on her engagement, and she congratulates him as well, even though there is clearly some sadness behind the moment. When the Green girls arrive at school, they are each carrying a bag containing a broken glass dish for their engagement ritual. The girls are then taken into a room to learn about sex—but, of course, it is Gilead’s version of sex, not the real thing. The Aunts describe the women as a “sacred vessel,” which makes the whole lesson feel incredibly strange and disturbing. During the class, Agnes notices that Hulda seems distracted and is acting differently, making Agnes wonder what is going on with her. Daisy and Shunammite are not allowed to attend because they are not considered women of age yet, but Daisy tells Shunammite that she will explain sex to her later.

Daisy goes to the bathroom and realizes that she has become a woman. Shunammite catches her washing her underwear, and Daisy begs her not to say anything. She knows that this could change everything for her if the others find out, making the moment even more frightening.

Agnes and Hulda are at recess when Hulda begins to tell Agnes about what happened during her trip to the dentist. Agnes urges her to tell the Aunts, but Hulda refuses because she doesn’t want anyone to know. Agnes becomes angry because she realizes that Dr. Grove did the same thing to her. It’s a painful moment for Agnes because she knows exactly what Hulda has been through and wants her to speak up, but Hulda is too afraid of what might happen if she does.

At lunch, Agnes has a frightening vision of Hulda jumping off the balcony. She is suddenly brought back to reality when Aunt Lydia begins speaking and announces the wedding engagements. Everyone at the table is quiet as the names are called, and Agnes is devastated when she hears that Becka might marry Garth since he is on her list now. Daisy looks shocked by the announcement as well. Shunnamite is trying to figure out why everyone seems so sad when this is supposed to be a happy occasion, and she genuinely wants to celebrate with her friends. Really Shunnamite? She doesn’t understand the tension around the table or why everyone is so quiet. Then Becka announces that she will be having the first engagement party, not a happy celebration for her since she does not want to get married in the first place.

At home, Agnes is doing a cake tasting with Commander Weston when Paula tries to put in her two cents and tells Agnes what kind of cake she should choose. Weston reminds Agnes that it is her wedding and that she should pick whatever she wants instead of letting Paula take over. When it is time to choose the flowers, Agnes picks ones that Paula doesn’t like, but Agnes is insistent that they are the flowers she wants for her wedding. For once, Agnes stands her ground and insists that she gets to make the choice.

Agnes is called to the Aunts’ office, where Hulda is waiting. Hulda has told them what happened with Dr. Grove, but Aunt Vidala talks her out of making a complaint, convincing her that she imagined what happened. Agnes sits there in shock, unable to say anything to defend her friend. She is completely caught off guard that Hulda actually spoke up and she freezes. After they leave the office, Agnes feels guilty for not speaking up and tells Hulda that she should have stood up for her.

The Green girls are in the art room when something goes missing, and Shunnamite realizes that Daisy took it and used it as a pad. After class, Shunnamite tells Daisy that she needs to tell the Aunts. Shunnamite then admits that she is the only girl who hasn’t had her period yet and that she feels humiliated. She also confides that her brother was taken on Angel’s Flight, and she feels like she can’t disappoint her mother. Daisy is surprised when Shunnamite mentions the flight that took all those children to Canada, but she quickly changes the subject and tells Shunnamite about sex. Shunnamite doesn’t believe her, gets angry, and storms out of the room.

Becka’s engagement party is underway, and everyone is there, including Penny, who looks like she hasn’t washed her hair in a while and ends up leaving the party early. Garth also has to step away to help his father, who is in a wheelchair and unable to speak, and he takes him outside to the porch. Daisy follows him and asks what happened to his father, and Garth explains that he was poisoned during the war with Boston. Daisy then tells Garth that she needs supplies now that she has started her period and asks again when she can leave. Garth tells her that they need her, but Daisy pushes back and tells him to call June. Garth has no idea who June is, leaving Daisy even more frustrated and alone.

Aunt Lydia stops Commander Weston to ask about the Pearl Girl who was taken. Weston tells her not to worry about the girl, but Lydia is clearly not satisfied with his answer. He then compliments her on the great job she is doing with the Plum girls, which only seems to irritate her more. The girl’s fate is disturbing because she could have been sent to the Colonies or, even worse, made into a Handmaid. Either way, Lydia knows that the girl’s life has been completely taken out of her hands.

Agnes and Hulda are approached by Dr. Grove, and both girls are clearly nervous around him after what has happened. Agnes goes outside and runs into Aunt Lydia, where she brings up the meeting with Aunt Vidala and tells Lydia that she believes Hulda is telling the truth. Lydia simply tells Agnes that people like him would be taken care of, but what exactly does that mean? Is she actually going to do something about Dr. Grove, or is she just trying to calm Agnes down? Then Lydia tells Agnes that once she is married, she will never have to go to the dentist again, which makes absolutely no sense. Seriously, that whole conversation with Aunt Lydia raises so many questions. If Dr. Grove is treating the men, why are the Wives suddenly not allowed or expected to see a dentist after marriage? And if Lydia knows what kind of man he is, why isn’t she doing something about it? There is definitely more going on here, and I have a feeling this may come back later.

Agnes is sitting outside when Daisy comes out and immediately senses that something is wrong. Agnes tells Daisy what Dr. Grove did. Daisy assures Agnes that it wasn’t her fault and comforts her. The two girls hug, creating a touching moment between them. Agnes still isn’t sure that she can trust Daisy, but she feels like she has to confide in someone, and for now, Daisy is the person she chooses.

This was a great episode! So much happened, and there were so many moments that made you stop and think about life in Gilead. Daisy and Agnes are both dealing with secrets and fear, while Agnes is beginning to question the things she has always been taught to accept. And Aunt Lydia continues to leave us wondering whose side she is on.

I hope everyone reading this is enjoying the show as much as I am! There is so much happening in each episode, and I love how it keeps giving us new questions to think about. I’m definitely looking forward to the next episode.

The Testament

Season One Episode Seven Commitment

Daisy lies in bed listening to the resistance radio as the broadcast reports that Gilead has failed in its attempt to take back Boston. The news gives her a little hope, but she is still terrified of being caught by Gilead. Daisy knows that if they find out she is in Mayday, she could be killed, making the danger around her feel very real.

Back in Canada, Daisy is still at the diner June took her to, waiting for someone to come get her. She waits all day, but as it gets dark, the diner is closing and no one has come. A woman asks Daisy where she needs to be, and Daisy simply answers, “Here.” The woman then says something about the weather and the month being May, even though Daisy knows that isn’t right. That is when Daisy realizes this woman is the person she has been waiting for all day.

Daisy gets out of bed to hide the recorder, then wakes Aunt Estee and leads her to another room. Once they are there, they begin the painful process of removing Daisy’s tattoo, showing just how far they are willing to go to erase the marks and identities from their past lives.

At Agnes’s house, Paula gives her the list of potential husbands who have been chosen for her. Agnes looks through the names and is disappointed to see that Garth is not on the list. Agnes had hoped that Garth would be one of the choices, making it clear that her request to Aunt Lydia was ignored. Despite Agnes making her wishes known, she has no say in the decision and is expected to accept the husbands chosen for her.

At school, the Green girls begin talking about the husbands they have been chosen to marry. Hulda seems pleased with her list, but Agnes is not nearly as happy. Becka, on the other hand, could care less. When Agnes discovers that Garth is on Becka’s list, she is surprised and upset. Becka gets up from the table and walks away, with Agnes following her. Agnes asks Becka not to marry Garth, but Becka reminds her that she doesn’t get a choice in the matter either.

Commander Weston arrives to inspect the Pearl Girls after word spreads that one of them may be a spy. Daisy is immediately nervous, knowing that being discovered could put her in serious danger. Shunammite adds to the tension when she says she overheard her father talking about how they are also investigating the bus shooting. Daisy now has even more reason to worry that Gilead may be getting closer to uncovering the truth.

Back in Canada, Daisy wakes up at her next stop, and is greeted by Rita. Yes, our Rita! Rita is there to help Daisy get out of Canada and get to Colombia, but Daisy is not happy about the plan. Rita is now cooking and attending culinary school, and pleased that Daisy likes her food. Daisy asks Rita about her real parents, but Rita does not have much information to give her. When Linda arrives with the passports, Daisy makes it clear that she does not want to go to Colombia. She wants to stay and join Mayday instead, and she puts up big fuss about it. Rita gives Daisy’s request some thought, and in the end, Daisy wins. But Daisy has no idea what she has signed up for by choosing to join Mayday. She is determined to help, but she has no idea just how dangerous this path is going to be.

Back in Gilead, the Pearl Girls are lined up as Aunt Vidala enters and begins calling out the names of girls to be interviewed. Daisy is one of the girls selected, immediately putting her on edge because she knows how dangerous it could be if Gilead discovers who she really is.

Back in Canada, Rita is prepping Daisy. Having her memorized faces and have her get a tattoo. Rita sends Daisy out to be a pan handler. She wants her to be prepared for anything that may come up.

Back in Gilead, Daisy is called in for questioning. Luckily, she is prepared because Rita had coached her before she left Canada, making sure Daisy knew exactly what to say and how to answer their questions without giving anything away.

Back in Canada, Rita makes Daisy memorize the faces of all the commanders so she will know exactly who she is dealing with when she gets to Gilead. Daisy then asks about June, since Linda had mentioned her. Rita tells Daisy that June’s daughter is still in Gilead, leaving Daisy with even more questions about June and what she must be going through.

Commander Walden finishes questioning Daisy, and she quickly runs to the bathroom, where she begins having a panic attack. Agnes finds her and asks what is wrong. Seeing how frightened Daisy is, Agnes reassures her that everything is going to be okay. Agnes then apologizes for not helping Daisy sooner and asks if she would like to come to her house.

Back in Canada, Daisy is panhandling as part of her new assignment when a Pearl Girl approaches her and offers her a hot meal and a place to wash her clothes. Daisy accepts and goes with them, only to discover that they do want to help her. She also realizes that the Pearl Girls are much more than she thought they were. This takes Daisy by surprise and makes her question what she thought she knew about them.

Back in Gilead, Daisy is at Agnes’s house, and Agnes tries to learn more about Daisy’s life before Gilead. Daisy talks about music, boyfriends, and how she was able to choose who she dated. Without thinking, Daisy makes a comment that the girls in Gilead don’t have to worry about those things because they don’t need personalities anyway. She immediately tries to apologize, realizing how hurtful her comment was. Agnes then pulls out a bag of items she has secretly collected over the years and asks Daisy about one of them. Daisy recognizes it as a crack pipe, but instead of telling Agnes the truth, she tells her it is something else. Agnes becomes upset and puts the bag away. Daisy knows the truth, but she is only trying to protect Agnes from learning what the item really is.

The interviews begin for the Green Girls as the Commanders start choosing their future wives. Each girl is interviewed by the top three Commanders chosen by the Aunts, making the process feel even more real as they realize their futures are being decided for them.

Agnes is interviewed by Commander Weston, who tells her she can ask him anything she wants. Agnes takes him at his word and asks about his wife, who died, and the child he lost. Big mistake! Paula is furious with Agnes afterward and scolds her for asking personal questions during the interview. Agnes was also testing Commander Weston. Since he told her she could ask him anything, she used the opportunity to see how he would respond to difficult and personal questions about his past. It was a risky move, but Agnes wanted to know what kind of man he really was. Not sure why she asked that question.

Agnes runs outside and sees Garth leaving. She notices the cigarette he had put out, picks it up, and puts it to her lips. Garth catches her and says something to her. Agnes then asks if he thinks she has a personality. Garth tells her that he sees her, which seems to mean more to Agnes than he realizes. She then asks him about Becka, but Garth asks her to go back inside.

Aunt Vidala comes into the room where the Pearl Girls are and announces the name of the girl who has been caught as a spy. Daisy immediately thinks it is her and braces herself to be taken away. Instead, they take another girl, and Daisy looks relieved. But I’m sure she isn’t the only spy among the Pearl Girls. Later, Daisy is shown praying for the safety of the Pearl Girl who was taken, showing that she truly cares about what happens to her.

Back in Canada, Daisy is taken to her drop-off point, where she meets her handler, Garth. The Pearl Girls tell her to be safe before she heads off. Daisy is clearly nervous as she prepares to leave, but she is also stepping into a whole new world. Now she is on her own, ready for whatever adventures and dangers come next. I’m nervous for Daisy too! She has no idea what she has really signed up for, and now she is heading into Gilead as part of Mayday. She has been brave so far, but this is a whole different level of danger. I’m definitely worried about what she is walking into.

Agnes is shown pulling out her secret bag, and inside she finds a drawing she made when she was younger. Written on the drawing is the name Hannah. This is such an important moment because it shows that Agnes does know who Hannah is. She is Hannah. Maybe she has remembered more about her past than she has let on, even to herself.

What an episode! So much happened with both Daisy and Agnes, and I’m left with so many questions about what comes next. Daisy is heading into Gilead with Mayday, and I’m nervous for her because she has no idea how dangerous this mission will be. At the same time, Agnes is beginning to uncover more about who she really is and her connection to Hannah. I’m really looking forward to seeing where both of their stories go from here. How are you feeling about this episode? Are you enjoying the show as much as I am?

The Testament

Season One Episode Six – Stadium

This episode begins with Aunt Lydia watching the Green girls from the top of the stairs as they make their way to class. As the girls pass through the hallways, the other Aunts begin coming downstairs and head toward the office. The Green girls watch them nervously, curious and anxious about which of them will soon be matched with a Commander.

Agnes tells Hulda to stop pacing even though she is nervous because the Aunts are about to match them with their future husbands. While the others seem nervous and curious about what is to come, Becka is clearly not happy about the situation at all. Her reaction makes it clear that she is not looking forward to being matched or getting married.

In the office, the Aunts begin pulling files from the shelves, with each Green girl and Commander having their own file. As Aunt Lydia looks through them, she quietly wonders what Agnes wants and admits that she is not quite sure yet. Really? None of these girls want to be married! Yet the Aunts are treating these matches as if the girls’ opinions matter, making the whole process feel not normal at all.

Before Gilead, Aunt Lydia is shown as a teacher sitting in the lounge with her colleagues, once again dealing with cancelled classes. She goes looking for coffee, only to find the can empty because someone forgot to bring more supplies. Then Vivian walks in and says something is happening outside. She tells Keith that the men outside want to speak with him, and everyone looks toward the glass doors to see several men waiting. As Keith steps outside to talk to them, the women watch nervously through the glass. Suddenly, one of the men shoots Keith in the head. The women begin screaming as the men enter the room and start taking them away. Lydia resists at first, but the men refuse to let her go, and she is taken away with the others.

The men take Lydia and Vivian to a stadium, where they are ordered to remove all of their belongings and place them in a box. The women are being interrogated and then sent to different areas of the stadium, leaving everyone terrified and confused about what is happening. Lydia and Vivian sit together in the open stadium, watching as women are taken away one group at a time. Then they witness something horrifying. On the field men line up a group of women and and shoot them. At this point, there is no doubt that something terrible is happening. Everyone is scared and have no idea what is coming next. I would be freaking out too!

Back in Gilead, the Aunts are discussing the certification of the Green Girls who are ready to move forward. Hulda is taken into a private room where she is examined to determine whether she has truly become a woman. Aunt Vivian completes the examination and confirms that Hulda is ready. It is another reminder of just how little control these girls have over their own lives and bodies.

Back at the stadium, before Gilead, Lydia and Vivian sit quietly as they watch more women being taken away. The fear is written all over their faces, and I’m sure they are both wondering the same thing: When will they come for us? With no idea what is happening or where the women are being taken, they have no choice but to sit and wait, terrified that they could be next.

Agnes, Becka, and Shunammite talk nervously as they wait to find out who the Green girls will be matched with. While Agnes and Shunammite seem curious about their futures, Becka is especially worried. She is afraid that because she got drunk at the ball, the Aunts will punish her by matching her with someone from the Colonies. You can really feel how much anxiety these girls have about something that is supposed to be a happy occasion.

Hulda is officially announced as a Green Girl and is now eligible to be matched with the others. Aunt Vidala then asks Hulda what punishment a girl should receive for being cruel to another girl. Shortly afterward, Shunammite is taken away and punished by having her hands beaten for the way she treated Hulda.

What exactly did Hulda tell the Aunts? And why would she turn on her own friend in the first place? I understand why Agnes and the others would have a hard time trusting her after this. If Hulda is willing to tell the Aunts what happens behind closed doors, who knows what else she might reveal? I definitely wouldn’t trust Hulda now either.

Back at the stadium, Lydia and Vivian are given nothing more than bread and water as they continue watching women being taken away. As night falls, things become even more frightening, and the two women try their best not to sleep. Vivian apologizes to Lydia for not bringing coffee to work that morning. Of course, coffee is the least of their problems now, but in this terrifying situation, they both find themselves wishing they could have just one cup. They try to stay awake, afraid of what might happen if they fall asleep. The next morning, Lydia wakes up and realizes that Vivian is gone.

Back at the school, Aunt Lydia watches as Shunammite returns to the dining room with both hands bandaged. Her friends ask how she is feeling, and she simply says she is fine. Hulda makes a comment about what happened, but Daisy tells everyone to cool it for a while. Then Shunammite shares some news she heard her father talking about that Penny has gone into labor, which means she will likely lose her baby. This is not good because it is Penny’s third pregnancy, and in Gilead, her entire purpose is seen as being able to have babies. If she cannot carry the pregnancy to term, it could have serious consequences for her future. Aunt Lydia watches as the girls pray for Penny, knowing just how much is at stake for Penny.

Back at the stadium, they finally come for Lydia. She resists, but the men force her to get up and take her to an office where she meets Commander Judd. He has already reviewed her file and begins explaining what will happen to the women and where they will be placed. Lydia quickly realizes that she needs to find a way to gain his confidence if she wants to survive. Thinking fast, she suggests that she could oversee the women and help manage them. Commander Judd listens to her, and Lydia begins to see an opportunity to make herself useful and perhaps save herself in the process. Quick thinking Lydia.

Back at the school, the Aunts are still going through the files and working on the matches when Commander Judd suddenly enters the room. He takes several of the Commanders’ files from the table, explaining that they are at war now. The mood immediately changes as the Aunts realize that the plans for the girls’ futures may be affected by what is happening outside the school.

The Green girls are at recess, but Agnes has other things on her mind. The girls begin arguing about who will be placed with which Commander, and the tension between them continues to grow. Agnes eventually walks away from the others and confides in Becka that she is in love with Garth. It’s clear that Agnes is struggling with the idea of being matched with someone else when she is in love the Garth.

As Agnes walks through the lobby, she sees Aunt Lydia sitting there. Aunt Lydia asks why she is not on her way to class, but Agnes takes the opportunity to ask if they can talk privately. Agnes then asks whether Garth would be eligible to be matched this season. Aunt Lydia looks at her and simply says she will think about it. Agnes may have gotten the answer she wanted or at least enough hope to keep her going.

Back at the stadium, Lydia is taken to a locker room and told to change into what appears to be a uniform. For the first time in a while, she is also given food. She is then brought back to Commander Judd, who tells her that if she wants to be trusted, she must prove that she is with them. Lydia is taken out onto the field and handed a gun. When she turns around, she sees Vivian standing in front of her. Lydia is ordered to kill her. Lydia says she cannot do it, but Commander Judd insists that this is her test. Lydia pulls the trigger, but she soon discovers that the gun was loaded with blanks. Vivian is still alive, and Lydia has passed the test. What a test! Lydia had no idea she was being set up, and Commander Judd now believes she has proven her loyalty.

Aunt Lydia and Aunt Vidala are the last ones making the matches for the Green girls, and Garth is finally placed in the pile to be selected. Meanwhile, Lydia learns that Penny has lost her baby and decides to speak with Commander Judd. Lydia suggests that he get a Handmaid, but he refuses. He is still hoping for the best.

Back at the stadium, Lydia is taken to Commander Judd’s office, where he tells her that she will be responsible for overseeing the women. He also gives her the task of choosing the fabric for their uniforms. Lydia chooses the roughest material available. At this point, comfort is no longer a way of life for these women. Lydia is beginning to understand that if she wants to survive in this new world, she has to become someone the men will trust.

The Green girls are waiting for their rides home when Hulda happily announces that she has her first appointment to get her teeth whitened. Agnes, however, doesn’t seem as excited. She looks concerned as she wonders whether Dr. Grove might try something with Hulda. Given everything the girls have been experiencing, it’s easy to understand why Agnes would be suspicious and worried about what could happen behind closed doors.

Aunt Estee is walking with Daisy and tells her that she was once a Pearl Girl. Daisy is curious and starts asking questions, but Aunt Estee doesn’t give her much information. She then reveals that she was the original Pearl Girl, which clearly impresses Daisy. At the same time, Daisy seems confused about why anyone would willingly choose to live in Gilead. And now I’m wondering if Aunt Estee is a spy too? There has to be more to her story, and I’m definitely curious to find out what she is really up to or she just believes what Gilead is telling her.

Aunt Lydia tells the other Aunts that all the matches have been made. She sends them out to inform the families, but she leaves Agnes for last. Lydia gives Agnes’s file to Aunt Vidala and sends her to deliver the news to Agnes’s family. Now the big question is, who will Agnes be matched with? After everything Agnes has shared about her feelings for Garth, I’m really hoping it’s him! It would be so good to see Agnes finally get the match she wants.

After all the Aunts have left, Aunt Lydia sits down with her journal and begins writing. She is carefully recording everything that happens in Gilead, keeping track of the people, their actions, and their secrets. Lydia is quietly building a record of everything she sees. She has dirt on all of them, and something tells me that journal is going to become very important.

This episode does a really good job of showing how Aunt Lydia became the person we know in Gilead without making her backstory as harsh or as drawn out as it is in the book. I actually think the changes work better for the show because we get to see Lydia make those choices and slowly realize that survival means finding a way to have power within this new system.

I’m not happy about what appears to be coming for the Green girls, but unfortunately, that is Gilead. The girls are being matched and sent off as if their futures are just another item on a checklist, while they have almost no say in what happens to them.

But the stadium scenes were probably the most disturbing part for me. The fact that Lydia, Vivian, and all those other women were simply taken without warning and that no one seemed to understand what was happening made it feel like it could happen now. They went from living their normal lives to being prisoners almost overnight. It makes me wonder if the signs were there all along and people simply couldn’t or wouldn’t believe what was happening.

Where are all the other men? We see Keith killed, but after that, the story focuses almost entirely on what happens to the women. Who is running everything outside of what we are seeing? Were the men taken too? Were some of them part of what was happening? I definitely think there is more to that part of the story that we will not hear about since this was all about Aunt Lydia.

How are you feeling about this episode? I hope you’re still enjoying the show as much as I am! There is so much happening, and I’m really curious to hear what you think about everything that is happened so far. I’m excited to see what happens next.

The Testaments

Season One Episode Five – Ball

Gilead’s wedding season begins, and all the Green girls are attending, with the Aunts making sure everything goes according to plan. The girls have been looking forward to this moment for as long as they can remember. From a young age, they have been taught that marriage is their purpose, so this season feels like the moment they have been preparing for their entire lives. But as the night unfolds, it becomes clear that not all of the girls are as excited about their future as they are expected to be.

The Green girls seem excited about what I’m assuming is a party. Most of the Green girls have been looking forward to this night, but for Agnes and Becka, things feel very different. Agnes immediately notices Becka but avoids her, while Becka makes an effort to speak to Agnes and is met with silence. Okay, Agnes. This is not Becka’s fault her father is a pervert.

The Green girls are taken to a ballroom, where they perform a dance while the available Commanders watch from the balcony. And look at all those old men watching them! How unnatural. They need to be looking for a wife their own age. After the performance, the Green girls take part in a father-daughter dance. Agnes spots Becka with Dr. Grove, and she panics. She can’t shake the feeling that Dr. Grove did something to her when she was in his office. Commander Mackenzie notices that something is wrong and asks if she’s okay. Agnes says yes, but it’s obvious that she is anything but okay.

After the father-daughter dance, in come the future Commanders. The Green girls are paired up and expected to dance with these men, who are noticeably younger than the older Commanders watching from the balcony. I’m assuming these men are being groomed to become Commanders one day. As the Green girls dance with them, the whole thing feels awkward and uncomfortable, but at least these younger men were nice to look at!

Two of the Plum girls, Shunammite and Hulda, are in the dressing room drinking something Shunammite made that they believe will help them come of age. But why are they so desperate to rush the process? Maybe they feel left behind because their friends have already crossed over and they’re still waiting. But what exactly are they drinking, and will it work?

Having small talk with the future Commanders, Becka and Agnes do their best to stay pleasant and carry on a conversation with the young men they are dancing with. But seriously, what in the world are they supposed to talk. Really! It has to be very awkward trying to make small talk with those men.

Meanwhile, Daisy is in the hallway holding a tray. One of the older Commanders stops and starts touching her. Daisy goes off on him, and he knocks the tray out of her hand. Garth sees what is happening and walks over to save her telling the older Commander that he will take care of it. After the old Commander leaves, Garth also says to Daisy that the chocolate she took from Commander McKenzie’s office helped a lot. Now Garth wants Daisy to find out more. All Daisy wants to do is get out of Gilead. I think Daisy is feeling scared and does not want to know what could happen to her.

Finally, the Green girls get to return to the dressing room to freshen up. Becka once again tries to talk to Agnes, but Agnes still refuses to respond. Shunammite and Hulda notice the tension and begin wondering what is going on between the two girls. Soon, the Green girls are sent back to the ballroom. I call it more like torture than a celebration. It’s sad to think that this is all these girls have ever known and that they have been raised to believe this is what their lives are supposed to be.

The Green girls will switch dance partners as they wait for the older Commanders to come in. Agnes and Becka both look disappointed with their new partners. Luckily for Agnes, the Commander she is dancing with gets called away for an emergency and asks Garth to step in and finish the dance with her. Agnes is thrilled, but of course, she has to keep those feelings hidden. She can’t let anyone see how excited she is to be dancing with Garth.

Meanwhile, Becka is at the refreshment table drinking liquor with her Commander and getting drunk. Honestly, I can understand why she feels the need to numb herself. She is trapped in a life she didn’t choose, and drinking may be the only way she knows how to cope with the pain.

Aunt Lydia watches everything going on and tells Commander Judd not to let the Commanders influence her girls to drink. Once Aunt Lydia leaves, Commander Judd tells Aunt Vidala that it is past time for some new blood. Aunt Vidala just smiles and then excuses herself. Hmm…that smile makes me think she knows exactly what he means. And Aunt Vidala looks so familiar to me! I recognize her from somewhere, but I just can’t put my finger on it yet. I guess we’ll see if it comes to me!

Becka is drunk and stumbling down the hallway when Shunammite, Hulda, and Daisy help get her out of sight. Daisy takes Becka into the bathroom, where Becka admits that she doesn’t want to go back to the ballroom. She doesn’t want those men touching her anymore. Daisy tries to calm her down, but then Becka asks her what it feels like to be a runaway. When Daisy tries to talk to her again, Becka suddenly confesses that she is in love with Agnes.

Well, now Daisy has some serious information! Daisy quickly changes the subject and tries to get Becka out of the bathroom, but Becka walks out on her own. Now I’m wondering what Daisy is going to do with that information. Hopefully, she doesn’t tell anyone because being in love with another girl is definitely not something Gilead is going to accept.

Agnes is taken to a room to be interviewed by the available Commanders. When she walks in, she sees a television screen in front of her that looks like a Zoom meeting. Agnes sits down, and Commander Judd begins asking her questions, but she freezes up. Commander Judd can tell she is nervous, so he pulls her aside and encourages her, telling her she is going to do a good job. Commander Judd explains that all she has to do is answer their questions so the Commanders can get to know her better. After the interview, Agnes leaves the room feeling like she did a good job. She seems relieved, but I have a feeling there may be more to this interview than she realizes. And why an interview at all!!

Agnes goes to check on Becka and reassures her that everything is going to be okay. Becka admits that all she wants to do is run away and asks Agnes if she would go with her. Agnes agrees, but I think she is only saying yes to keep Becka calm. Agnes knows how sad Becka is feeling, and she doesn’t want to make things worse. But now I’m wondering if Becka actually believes Agnes will go through with it.

Aunt Vidala tells Aunt Lydia that the party is going well, but Aunt Lydia quickly shuts that down. She tells Aunt Vidala that things are definitely not going well and that she needs to do better. Aunt Vidala looks completely shocked by the criticism. You can tell she wasn’t expecting Aunt Lydia to be so blunt with her. What is going on between them two. It really feels personal.

Finally, the party is coming to an end, and the Green girls stand around waiting to find out who they will be matched with. Aunt Vidala comes in and scolds the girls, telling them that things did not go well that night. Then suddenly, the bell rings. Everyone stops and looks around, wondering who it could be.

Hulda walks in with a huge smile on her face, gets down on her knees, and recites the poem announcing that she has come of age. Everyone gathers around her and celebrates, hugging her and congratulating her. Shunammite watches from the side, clearly disappointed that it wasn’t her turn. Eventually, though, she puts her feelings aside, gives Hulda a hug, and congratulates her. I know Shunammite has to be happy for her friend, but I can’t help wondering how she is really feeling inside. Shunammite thought that drink was going to help her come of age first. Sometimes things just don’t work out the way you plan!

After such an eventful night, Agnes rides home with Commander McKenzie, while Garth sits in the front seat. Commander McKenzie congratulates Garth on becoming a Commander soon, and Commander McKenzie looks at Agnes with a smile. Agnes stays quiet, but you can tell she is secretly excited. Maybe there is a chance she will be matched with Garth after all. If that happens, she wouldn’t have to marry one of those old Commanders she was dancing with that night! Miracles can happen but I’m afraid not in Gilead.

This episode was really sad because of the life these girls are being forced to live. The saddest part is that they genuinely want to please their parents and believe they are supposed to marry these men. They have been raised from such a young age to think this is normal and that this is simply what girls their age are supposed to do. They don’t know any different. It’s hard to watch them accept a life that was chosen for them before they were even old enough to understand what they were giving up. What a sick country.

I did like the episode, but it was definitely uncomfortable and sad to watch. What stood out to me most was how normal Gilead has made all of this seem to the girls. They aren’t simply being forced into marriage but raised to believe that marriage to a Commander is their purpose, so many of them actually want to please their families and do what is expected of them.

And now it’s getting very serious because the girls are about to find out who they will be married to. Agnes seems especially hopeful that she could end up with Garth, which would obviously be very different from being paired with one of those older Commanders. But knowing Gilead, I’m not convinced she is going to get what she wants.

I also think Becka is becoming one of the most interesting characters. Her confession that she is in love with Agnes changes things completely. Now Daisy knows her secret, and in Gilead, that is dangerous information to have. I’m really curious whether Daisy will protect Becka or whether circumstances will force her to reveal the secret. Time will tell.

And then there’s Daisy, who just wants to escape. She keeps getting pulled deeper into Gilead’s secrets even though she wants nothing to do with them. Between what Garth wants her to discover and Becka’s confession, she is carrying a lot more information than she probably wants.

Overall, I thought this episode did a great job of showing just how disturbing Gilead is without always having to be violent. The girls smiling, dancing, getting excited about marriage, and trying to please their parents. This somehow makes it even more disturbing because they have been taught to accept this life as normal. And now that the marriages are coming, I think things are about to get much darker.

How are you feeling about the episode? Are you enjoying the show as much as I am? Starting on the next episode.

The Testament

Season One Episode Four – Green Tea

This episode is very different from what girls Agnes’s age should be doing, but then again, this is Gilead. It really shows how the girls have been raised to believe that their future duties as Wives is something to look forward to. They seem almost happy about the lives they are expected to have. What a world Serena and Fred helped create for these girls.

There is a tea party at Agnes’s house with all the Green girls there. They will be judged on on how well they serve tea to the Wives with the Aunts watching and judging there every move.

This is a big celebration for the marriage season. There will be all kinds of food, beautiful decorations, and, of course, plenty of tea. It is supposed to be a special and exciting event for the girls, but underneath it all is the pressure they feel as they prepare for their future lives as Wives.

Daisy is helping set up the arrangements when one of the florists approaches her. The florist tells Daisy that she needs to let Garth know that she wants to get out of there. Daisy is stunned. It sounds like the florist is desperate to escape Gilead too.

The Green girls are walking to Agnes’s house when they pass three people hanging from a tree. Daisy stops and completely freaks out. She has never seen anything like that before. Agnes tells Daisy that they deserved it. Daisy knows the people were from Mayday. Two of the other girls are cruel to Daisy and make fun of her reaction. All Daisy can think about is that it could have been her hanging from that tree.

When they get to Agnes’s house, Daisy helps finish setting everything up while Agnes goes to her room to get dressed. Becka is helping Agnes and also works with her on her dance steps. At one point, Becka looks at Agnes and pauses. Does Becka have a crush on Agnes? When they start dancing, Becka is looking at Agnes differentl and not just as a friend. It almost seems like she wants to kiss her. Then Becka comes to her senses and pulls herself together. What in the world!! No wonder she doesn’t want to get married. And the feelings she seems to be having would never be excepted in Gilead. She would definitely be put on the wall.

Paula greets Agnes when she comes downstairs, and there is a table full of gifts for her. The gifts are from Commanders who want to marry Agnes. Agnes doesn’t even want to stop at the table, but she feels obligated to look at everything.

Daisy comes in, but she is still distracted by what she saw earlier with the bodies hanging from the tree. The Green girls are talking when Garth walks in. Agnes immediately gets quiet and nervous. She really is in love with him.

Garth is asked to read one of the cards from the gift table while Agnes watches. Paula eventually comes in to get the girls. Daisy pretends to drop a basket so she can stay behind and talk to Garth.

Daisy tells Garth about the florist who approached her and says the woman wants out. Daisy wants out too. Garth tells her that she is too valuable and that they need her to continue getting close to Agnes so she can learn information about Commander Mackenzie. Daisy clearly isn’t happy about this. She wants to leave Gilead, and now she is being told that she has to stay.

Daisy makes it outside before all the Aunts get there. They come up in cars and are lead into the house. The Green girls have to show their top skills as a wife today so everyone is on edge. The Green girls are in the kitchen getting their tea prepared with the help of their Marthas. Daisy is wondering what the big deal is and why everyone is taking this so seriously. She doesn’t seem to understand just how important this tea party is to the girls and the Aunts who will be judging them.

The Green girls begin serving tea, and they are all on edge because they are being judged. Agnes and the other girls prepare to come out with their teapots and serve the Wives. Then Paula trips one of the girls, causing her to spill her tea. Agnes sees Paula do it but doesn’t say anything. Did no one else notice what Paula did, or were they all just pretending they didn’t see it? It was hard to believe that no one else saw what happened.

The girl who dropped her tea is devastated as her mother watches. I couldn’t help but wonder what is going to happen to her now. The poor girl was already nervous, and now she has to wonder what this mistake could mean for her future. In Gilead, something as simple as spilling tea can apparently have serious consequences.

After the tea ceremony, the Green girls are given a Commander cake. The cake contains a token, and Agnes bites into hers and hits something hard. It is a porcelain bride. Paula is thrilled, but the porcelain bride cracks Agnes’s tooth. Becka’s mother tells Paula that her husband will fix Agnes’s tooth. Agnes is immediately nervous about going to the dentist and seeing Dr. Grove.

Daisy somehow ends up upstairs in Commander McKenzie’s office. She walks in and starts looking around, not realizing that Commander McKenzie is sitting on the couch. He startles her and asks why she is in his office. Daisy quickly makes up an excuse, and surprisingly, Commander McKenzie believes her. He gets up and offers her a piece of chocolate. Daisy takes it, thanks him, and immediately leaves the room. OMG!! Daisy dodge a bullet with that one! She really could have been in a bind if Commander McKenzie had figured out what she was actually doing in his office. I was holding my breath right along with her!

Agnes is taken to the dentist office by Garth with Daisy with her for support. Agnes gets to the dentist office and is very nervous. Agnes goes into the room but is very cautious. The dentist looks into her mouth and says he can help her. He gives her a sedative and closes the door.

While they wait on Agnes to get her tooth fixed, Daisy is grilling Garth on what plans he has to get her out. She hands him a chocolate which she got from the Commander Mackenzie’s office. Garth says they will check it out. Daisy tells Garth that Agnes is in love with him and he should be careful.

Agnes wakes up and Doctor Grove is washing his hands. Agnes gets up to leave. Paula is waiting for Agnes when she gets home and checks her tooth for approval. Paula is pleased with the results.

On the way into the house, Daisy asks Agnes how many mothers she has had. Agnes explains that she had a first mother who died and that Paula is now her stepmother. Daisy asks about her birth mother, but Agnes tells her that they are not allowed to talk about her. Daisy then tells Agnes that her own mother died too and that she doesn’t know who her birth mother is. Why is Daisy asking Agnes all these questions? Is she just trying to get to know Agnes better, or is there something else going on? What is Daisy really trying to find out? I have a feeling these questions may be more important than they seem.

Daisy’s ride arrives to take her back. On the way, she sees Guardians outside the florist. She remembers the florist who approached her earlier and discovers that someone has been shot in the street. Daisy assumes it was the florist and she freaks out. Do you blame her?? I don’t!

When Daisy gets to the school she goes into the bathroom and checks her radio to see if there’s a message from Mayday and there is no signal . Daisy really freaks out and starts to cry.

I can’t imagine what she is thinking at this point. She came to Gilead believing she would be able to make a difference and eventually get out. Now she is stuck there, and she doesn’t know who she can trust or whether Mayday can even help her.

Agnes is in her room and has taken her clothes off. She sees that her blouse is undone. She panics. She knows that she didn’t do it. It had to be Doctor Grove. Agnes cries. What did he do to her. I’m sure Agnes feels violated, confused, and terrified. She went to the dentist expecting to have her tooth fixed, and now she is left wondering what happened while she was sedated. This could have a huge impact on Agnes and will she get over it. I would not get over it. Agnes needs to find out what happened to her.

Great episode! Daisy is really becoming more and more anxious, and it is obvious that she is desperate to leave Gilead. Rita tried to warn her that getting involved in Gilead would not be pleasant, but Daisy didn’t want to listen. Now she is stuck there, and she is going to have to figure out how to survive and adjust to her new life.

Agnes, on the other hand, is not in a good place right now. Between the pressure to become a wife, her feelings for Garth, questions about her birth mother, and now what may have happened at the dentist, she has a lot to process. I really hope Agnes is able to get through this and find a way to get over it or get revenge.

What are you thinking after this episode? Do you think Daisy is going to be able to get out of Gilead? What do you think happened to the florist? And what do you think Dr. Grove did to Agnes?

The Testament

Season One Episode Three – Daisy

How did Daisy end up in Gilead? This episode will give us more information but not too much yet. At least we are finding out a little more about her character. It’s sad what will happen to Daisy, but she is strong and will get through this.

The Pearls are tasked to get honey from the hives daily and process. In Canada, Daisy has parents that owned a thrift shop. Daisy is living the teenage life and seems to be happy. Her parents don’t seem too strict but they keep her in line. Daisy seems to have a good relationship with them.

Daisy goes off with her boyfriend Justin and it’s getting high. On her way home she hears sirens and see flashing lights. Then Daisy looks across the street. It’s her parents thrift shop. She sees her mother lying on the ground; then she sees her dad too. Daisy rushes over trying to go into the shop but they do not let her pass. The police are not telling her what happened.

Daisy is back in Gilead serving tea for the Aunts. The Aunts are talking about the Pearl girls and Aunt Vidala is saying that she doesn’t know why “they are there.” The Aunts notice Daisy is listening and Aunt Vildala tells Daisy to get cleaned up for the field trip and go find Agnes. They are also wondering if Aunt Lydia is going to pair up all the Pearl girls with commanders daughters. One of the Aunts say they may become echo wise. See what happens when you assume things. I’m glad Aunt Lydia is not sharing her thoughts on what will happen to the Pearl Girls.

Daisy goes to find Agnes. The Plums are going to the home of one of the newly named married Plums, Penny. The Aunts are stating this would be a learning experience for the Plums and Greens to see how a household is run. Agnes greets her guardian Garth and gives him a smile. Daisy makes comments to herself observing the Agnes has a crush on Garth.

They get on the bus, down the road there is raid. Sound of guns that are being fired. Daisy makes Agnes get down and covers her. They are all later escorted off the bus and lead into a building. All the girls are understandably upset. It was mentioned that May Day was involved.

Back in Canada, Daisy goes to the morgue to identify her parents’ bodies. There is a social worker with Daisy trying to get her to go with him. The man hands Daisy a cup with tea to drink. He leaves to go talk to someone. While he is gone, June comes to sit beside Daisy. Yes our June!! So good to see her!! June tells Daisy she has to go with her. June takes the cup from Daisy stating he was trying to get her to drink the tea. Was there something in the cup besides tea? June also says he was not a social worker and not there to protect her. June tells Daisy she needs to come with her and takes her to the stairway. The man comes back looking for Daisy and upset when he does not find her.

The Plums are hiding inside a building. They are thinking it’s May Day too. Hulda says she saw one of the men and smiles saying she saw the hair on his chest. The girls start to giggle. Just think, they have never seen a man or boy without clothes on. They don’t have TV so they had no reason to know what A man would look like. Then Daisy smiles and tells them that’s normal and goes on to tell them a story about her seeing men on the beach without a shirt on.

Back in Canada, June tells Daisy her parents were killed and they were trying to take her. June also tells Daisy that she is a friend of her parents. Daisy seems to trust June and goes with her. June takes Daisy to a hotel room and gives her the full story about her parents saying they were in Mayday. Daisy doesn’t believe her. Daisy says she learned about Mayday in school. June says they were planning on telling her but didn’t get a chance. Daisy wants to call her boyfriend but June will not let her use the phone. Daisy is not happy about that.

When June goes to sleep, Daisy leaves and goes to her boyfriend Justin’s house. He is happy to see her. He ask her questions and later they make out. Daisy asked Justin to run away with her. Justin goes to get his parents to let them know Daisy is there. Daisy leaves not knowing if she can trust them. And on her way to the hotel, she sees June waiting for her. Daisy is realizing that June may be the only person she can trust.

They had to rescheduled the trip to Penney’s house because of the shooting. When the Plums get to get there, they’re happy to see their friend who is now a new wife. Penny shows them around. They are getting ready to have lunch when Penny’s husband Commander Judd comes in. He greets them and says a few words. He turns to Daisy and starts asking her questions about why she chose to come to Gilead. Daily makes something up the seems to please Commander Judd. They can’t even have a nice lunch with their friend without someone coming in and ruining it.

After the lunch. Daisy leaves first and goes to the bus. She sees Garth and starts asking him questions about when she would be getting out of there. She gives him a map of the school and he says it will help. Daisy asked to speak to June but Garth doesn’t seem to know who June is. Now Daisy is really nervous.

Back in Canada, Daisy is at the diner with June. June gives her the story about Gilead. June says Gilead wants to take her back so that’s why she rescued her. June let’s Daisy know that her parents were in Gilead and that they got her out. Daisy then realizes that her parents were not her real parents. Daisy is devastated and shocked about the entire situation. June tells Daisy to stay in the diner and not leave because someone is coming to pick her up. June gets up to leave. Daisy hesitates but sits there and waits.

Good episode. Daisy is going to be a strong character and reminds me of June. Daisy has no family and no where to go, so of course she is going to trust June. She does not know that June is the best thing that could happen to her. I have so many questions. Who are Daisy’s real parents? Is it June and Nick? Not sure how that would fit into the storyline. And if so, when did June leave Daisy with the other couple. And where is Holly. So many questions. I will continue on to the next episode. Hope you are enjoying the show as much as I am.

The Testament

Season One Episode One – Precious Flower

As we all know Agnes is the daughter of June Osborne. June tried in The Handmaid’s Tale to get to Agnes aka Hannah for years on the show. Now in this show Agnes is a teenager dressed in lavender which is the color for the Plums. When she becomes a Plum, she will be eligible to get married to a Commander once she becomes “a woman”. She is not a woman at 15 in normal times. She should be enjoying her youth and hanging out with her friends.

Agnes is still living with her father Commander McKinsey, but there is a new wife named Paula. They don’t talked about what happened to the first Mrs. McKinsey but I’m assuming she passed away. So we will call Paula, Agnes’s stepmother which you can clearly tell they don’t like each other. Agnes hangs out a lot with her Marthas and they adore her. She sneaks down to the kitchen at night to talk to them.

Agnes goes to a Plum Academy which is where all the girls her age and younger girls go. She has her friends and she hangs out with them during the day. But not the normal hang out teenagers do. There are Aunts who keep a strict eye on the girls all day long. And there is also Aunt Lydia who has crossed over from The Handmaid’s Tale. Aunt Lydia also has a statue of her in the foyer of the school. I still don’t know why she has this statue. It’s kind of odd knowing what we know about her from The Handmaid Tale’s. She seems to be cherished at this school.

And then there are the Pearl Girls all dressed in white clothing. I’m not sure yet why the Pearl Girls are there but it was said they are runaways from Canada who want to be members of Gilead. I’m not quite sure if that’s true or not but we will see. And why would any girl in their right mind want to go to Gilead. Girls, the grass is definitely not greener on the other side.

There is one Pearl Girl, Daisy, that Aunt Lydia want’s Agnes to groom and shadow her. Not sure what Daisy’s intentions are right now, but she is truly not about the Gilead life. There was a scene were a guy was tortured and she just freaked out. Agnes comforted Daisy. Agnes which helped some. Seems like Agnes my trust her but not fully yet.

At night, there is a scene where all the Pearl Girls are sleeping. As soon as Aunt Lydia leaves, Daisy gets a tape recorder she is hiding on the side of one of the beds. She puts her headphones on and it the resistance radio. As Daisy is listening to the music she thinks about her life outside of Gilead. She is skate boarding in the street. She stops and goes into a store. And then you see her!! June Osbourn!! OMG!!. Daisy is with May Day? I don’t want to assume that right now.

Why is June standing at the counter looking at Daisy. Did June have Daisy sent there to watch over Agnes. And, does Aunt Lydia have something to do with it since she is the connection between Daisy and Agnes.

This episode was not exciting but it was interesting getting to know the characters, especially the way Agnes thinks. She knows who her real mom is so we will see what happens with that. And Daisy. What is she up too. I can’t wait to find out.

DOC

Season One Episode Ten – . . . Must Come Down

A man is driving his truck and seems very upset. He stops his truck on a railroad track with a train coming towards him. What is wrong with him? Is he trying to die? And kill a bunch of people on the train.

Amy is home she calls TJ and leaves a message. She sees a derailment on the news. There are 9 dead and some injured Nora is in the process of dropping Michael off at the office and hears about the train crash. Rushing he leaves his phone in the car. Nora calls after him but he does not hear her. The phone buzzed and there was a text from Amy.

Rodney is getting an MRI As TJ waits outside the room. Amy sees TJ in the hallway and asked about Rodney, but TJ is very short with her. He needs to get over himself. He doesn’t even know yet that the procedure Amy suggested worked or not. Besides, he’s inexperienced and does not know what he is taling about.

Richard has everyone together in the hallway giving them instructions on what to do for the mass casualties. Look at him trying to be a good leader. Everyone needs to jump in as needed. All the doctors step up and start treating patients.

Gina looks concerned as she looks for one of her patients. Gina thinks he is the cause of the train crash.

Amy now thinks that she’s not a good doctor since her talk with Richard. She gets short with Sonya who walks away.

The man that helped get a lot of people off the train doesn’t want credit for helping. Jake takes him to a private room. The man goes on to tell Jake that he is a screw up and his son doesn’t even talk to him.

TJ looks inside his Dad’s room as his Mom exercises Rodney’s legs.

Michael comes to Gina and tells her that the patient she’s looking for is not on the casualty report. Then they see the police come in requesting someone. The person they are requesting is Gina’s client. Gina takes the police and Michael to her office so that they can hear the last message the patient left her. Gina gives them the full story.

TJ is trying to save a young patient. Sonya and TJ are giving him CPR back-to-back but it’s not working. Then finally they get a pulse and everyone yells and celebrates. What a great win!

Amy’s near the elevator and sees Nora coming out when it opens. She confronts Amy and tells her to stay away from her husband. Amy is shaking up by the confrontation. Amy gets home and Katie sees her crying in the bathroom. Katie asks Amy what is wrong and Amy tells her nothing. Katie goes on to say that she can’t shut her out again. That now that she has her back, she can’t lose her again. Amy apologizes to Katie. Amy says she has screwed everything up and Katie tells her she needs to fix it.

Amy goes to see Mrs. Dixon. Mrs. Dixon says she had never met Amy before. Amy looks confused. Amy says she thinks her husband’s death was her fault. Mrs. Dixon says that wasn’t true, that her husband will never take a beta blocker because he has low blood pressure. Amy is then very confused. Richard told her something different. Okay Richard. Your story is falling apart.

Jake goes to tell Bradley, the hero he put in the private room, that he is famous and on the news. Bradley looks on as he sees his son on the news saying how proud he is of his dad. The son comes into the room and sees Bradley and gives him a hug. Apparently, the newscaster located Bradley and Bradley’s. Son and told him where they were.

TJ finds Amy and gives her a hug, saying she was right. TJ apologized to Amy. Rodney can now move his legs again.

Amy runs into Nurse Liz and tells her she needs to tell the truth. Liz looks nervous. Richard goes into Michael’s office. It is about Bill Dixon. Amy says she went to Mrs. Dixon house to apologize but learned learned the truth. Amy says Richard is the one that gave Dixon the wrong medicine. That she had asked for an autopsy because she figured out what happened. Richard looks confused and he knows that he has been caught. That’s right, Richard. Fess up!!

Flashback. Richard is with Dixon, but leaves the room when he gets a call from the police about his son, Lucas, who is in a holding cell because he swung at an officer. Richard is very upset. Dixon coded and Liz goes in to try to help him. Richard comes in to take over. Richard grabs the wrong tube of medicine and Dixon immediately codes. Richard realizes that he gave Dixon the wrong medicine but hides it.

In the office with Max, Micheal and Amy, Richard says he panicked. Michael goes on to say that they had spoken to Liz and that Richard had threatened her not to say anything. Richard said he was scared, Max said Richard’s license will be suspended. Richard apologizes to Amy for saying she did it. Amy says she couldn’t forgive him for it. Okay. He did apologize but why lie in the first place and make it worse for himself.

After leaving Michael’s office, Max confronts Amy about going to Mrs. Dixon’s house. Amy tells Matt that the hospital needs to pay Mrs. Dixon whatever she asked for. Amy also goes on to say that Max gave her a hard time when she was trying to get reinstated trying to get her leave the hospital and not be a doctor again. Max doesn’t say a word. You tell it, Amy! Now, everyone don’t try that at work because you may get fired. This is just a tv show. Just saying.

Amy has softer attitude now when she goes to the man that fell and hit his head. Amy tells him she has something similar happened to her, but he would recover. Melony, his fiancé, comes into the room. They are happy to see each other.

Amy runs into Gina, who is mad at her for not listening to her the day before. Amy tries to talk to Gina, but she walks away. Okay Amy, you are alway going to her to listen. Gina does have a point. Everyone is on edge.

Richard’s wife Victoria is calling him as he packs up his things to leave his office. Now Richard has lost his job with no income. I’m sure Victoria does not work. Richard was never concerned about what could happen if he had not income. What will happen to his family. I hope he has money saved. Just saying.

After the success of TJ’s father recovery, TJ says he’s going to buy drinks at the bar for everyone to celebrate. Jake comes in preoccupied texting Amy. Sonya gets upset with Jake and tells him to get over Amy because she heard Nora telling Amy to stay away from her husband. Jake gets upset with Sonya and tells her that they are done. Does that mean he will no longer be friends with Sonya? Jake goes back to the hospital looking for Amy to prove Sonya is wrong. He goes to Michael’s office and sees Amy with Michael. They are kissing.

I told you! Team Michael. That’s not right I know because Nora is about to have the baby. Hey, the man can’t help the way he feels. It’s bad for everyone involved. And they end the season with that. What a cliffhanger.

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