Even better than I anticipated, Erin! The writers really know how to pull at the old heartstrings, don't they? This was at least a three hankie eppy.

I must give kudos to all of the actors coming together like a well-oiled machine. It's such a wonderful ensemble. I know that they say what the writers put into their mouths, but it's their comfort level and ease with one another that sells them so well as a true family. I so totally get sucked into the Walker world, and believe I'm watching a real family for that hour. It just feels real. The happy times, and the sad.

Sally Field was so deserving of that Emmy, and she proved herself worthy during the premiere of season two. There were two moments that really moved me more than anything else. That something so innocuous as a doorbell could evoke such fear and trepidation in Nora Walker. Thank goodness I don't have a loved one serving in the war, but I can just imagine that every time the phone or doorbell rings, your heart must just sink. Wow. That was so powerful. The second scene also involves Nora, and it's when she's frantically making her bed, Kitty's trying to encourage her to lie down, and she insists that she can't stop moving, she needs to keep busy. Boy, I think everyone has been there at one time or another in their life. And the delivery was masterful.

Rebecca had the Walker clan pretty well labeled, didn't she?

I knew that Julia was beginning a clinical depression, and that she might even resent the surviving baby because she reminds her of William's death. I'm glad that Tommy finally did clue his family in to the fact that Julia's going through something a little more serious than new mommy blues. By the conclusion of the eppy, she seemed improved, but by the looks of the previews, it was a transient respite. She needs professional help.

Kitty opening William's gift because she needed some comfort in light of Justin was a great moment. I only wish the gift had been more subtle or even comical to lighten the mood. "Be Strong" seems a little heavy-handed and convenient. But that's just my cynical take.

I did very much enjoy the scene of Kevin praying for his brother. He might not have found religion for the right reasons, but it is having a positive effect on him. Do you think when Uncle Saul told him that he was blessed, that the conversation ended there, or do you think, off-camera, that Saul confessed to him that he'd been living a closeted life?

How much you want to bet that Sarah's preggers as a result of the spin cycle romp?

I still don't like Nora making nice with Holly, but I did think it was nice of Holly to inquire about Justin. I guess this woman's in it for the long haul, so I'd best get used to it.


All in all, an excellent show. My gripes are very minor. I've missed this show and this family.


Leslie

I would rather work for an upturned broom with a bucket for a head than work for somebody else in this office besides myself.
Game on.
~ Stanley
*****
"It's Getting Hot" in The Office.