Krista Vernoff on "Haunt You Every Day"...

First things first. Blogging about episode number 5 when you are currently spending long days in the writers’ room working on episode 12? This kind of thing was MUCH easier before I had a baby. Yes, since we last spoke my beautiful daughter Cosette was born – and with her arrival went the vast majority of my brain cells. Seriously, it’s craaaazy how dumb I am. Can’t. Remember. Crap. I currently have my lovely and talented assistant, Star, running around the building looking for a dvd of “Haunt You Everyday” so I can remember what the hell it’s about. I vaguely remember something about Halloween. So that’s what I’ll talk about.

Halloween has long been a favorite holiday of my family. We are a highly delusional people, and any opportunity to pretend to be someone else, we seize upon with glee. Every year, my Dad, until he died at 56, would spend like, 4 hours in the bathroom putting on this unbelievable costume. He would dress as one of the monsters from the Time Machine. What were they called?? Warlock? …Morlock! I think it was morlock! God, I wish I was kidding about my memory. Anyway, he was big on the holiday. I, myself, remember being chastised by a neighbor lady when, at age 13, I was dressed up like a kitty/bunny/rodent type creature, ringing doorbells and trick or treating. She told me I was too old for this sort of thing and I STILL remember my devastation, cause truth be told, that hadn’t even occurred to me. I loooove Halloween (and you can’t believe how excited I am to dress my 7 month old in a monkey costume and carry her around the neighborhood – no one can tell me I’m too old for that!!) I’m ranting, as usual, but my point is…Meredith. That moment where she tells Mark that Ellis never got Halloween together and didn’t approve of knocking on doors, begging for food… That moment explains so so so much to me about our lovely, broken Meredith. That her first experience trick or treating is taking an earless boy around the hospital to make his pro-bono surgery happen… I find it utterly heartbreaking. And I love that Mark points out to her that she fell pretty far from the Ellis tree. I think it was critically important to Meredith to hear those words, because the haunting Meredith is feeling, is the fear that she will die alone like her Mom did. Because Derek said he might find someone else before she’s ready. And she doesn’t know how to get ready. Cause she’s an emotional cripple who’s unwilling or unable to lay her ass down on a therapist’s couch for the many years it takes to work through issues like she has. Meredith’s version of therapy – her very best idea – is to bring her mom’s ashes to work. Y’know, in a strange way it makes sense – like, she understands that she’s been sticking her mom in the back of her closet, literally and metaphorically – and that if she doesn’t start to look at this stuff (i.e.: herself) she’s in danger of dying alone (i.e.; losing Derek forever.) Life is hard isn’t it? But I love and applaud Meredith’s ongoing willingness to try – as she explains to Derek when his hands are covered in mommy dust and he’s looking at her like maybe, just maybe he should escort her up to the psych ward, “This is me trying.” See, Derek comes from sanity, and a Mom who probably made him homemade Halloween costumes every year and chaperoned the school dances and things – so it’s hard for him to get, exactly how haunted Meredith is. Richard, though, gets it. Because Ellis haunts him, too. And my favorite scene, maybe ever, is the one in which Richard and Meredith put Ellis to rest in a surgical sink. I hope, I hope, I hope you all got this. I hope so much that no one found this disrespectful. (My Dad, for the record, has been laid to rest in something like 28 different countries. He had always wanted to travel, and never got to much, so after he died, my stepmom put his ashes in many little baggies and gave them out to all his friends with the directive that when they went somewhere cool, they should bring him. I kid you not. I myself scattered him in the Bahamas, in Paris and in Scotland.) Point is, there is nowhere Ellis would rather be put to rest than in the scrubroom at Seattle Grace. This is absolutely the most respectful and appropriate thing Meredith could have done. And Ellis was a very private woman, so the intimate ceremony, her daughter and the man who loved her most, was all she would have wanted. There are more things in this episode, I know there are, but I loaned my dvd to the new writer and my assistant isn’t back yet and my brain isn’t functioning and I’m needed in the writers’ room, so I will say goodbye here and wish you all a very happy Halloween. May no one ever tell you you are too old to knock on doors and beg for food.

Xoxo, Krista

Comments

[jessicafreels]

There were things I loved....But there were things I hated. THe George Izzie thing is AWFUl and I cant help but feel that way. I did like Baileys speech to George. I loved that Callie and Cristina are becoming closer.,...as close as Cristina can get. And I am glad you included the Chief in the scattering of Ellis. That was important.
Sloane just gets better and funnier...

[CC]

The scene in the scrubroom with Meredith and the Chief couldn't possibly have been more perfect. There is absolutely no other place Ellis should be.

As for the rest - LOVE George and Izzie, and I SO LOVED Bailey telling George that it takes two and he's not a bad guy, and she was there when his father died and he came back a week later married. THANK YOU. He should never have gotten married, and Callie should never have married him while he was grieving. THANK YOU!!

[Normanrules]

Wow am I the first to post??

Incredible episode, Krista! Incredible blog! As usual. And I didn't even know you had your own personal blog until a friend of mine (and fellow fan) told me. And I have to say your most recent post BROKE MY HEART.

You are such an amazing writer. And as I will continue to always read here, I will also check out http://kristavernoff.blogspot.com from now on as well! More blogs, please!

LOVED tonight. Can't wait for next week!

[JoAnn from Hawaii]

Okay, I'm cheating. GA comes on in an hour but I've already read your posting. I now know that I'll LOVE the show. It's great to hear background information that plays with the story (eg your childhood Halloween celebrations). Thank you for sharing that. Looking forward to a great show! ~JoAnn

[Meredith]

I feel like Grey's is really back! I laughed out loud (Happy Feet), and cheered (Alex/Ave), and I cried (Meredith/Chief/Mom) - and it was all in the same episode. I cannot wait to see where you all are going this season.

[Amy]

Let me tell you how wonderful EllenPompeo was tonight. Just magic. There's a REASON it's called Grey's Anatomy. I hope you don't forget it...

But while I'm at it, let me tell you how much I see you writers TRYING to break Meredith and Derek up. With all that was special with Pompeo tonight, that joy that is "Mer/Der" was all but absent and so in fact was the heart of the show sadly.

While you rebuild Meredith and I for one cannot be happier, to watch you destory the couple that in part helped make this show the success it is, is truly heartbreaking.

Honestly, no matter how much I adore Ellen Pompeo and her portrayal of Meredith Grey, then ending of Mer/Der is a deal breaker for me for season five.

Their differences is what makes them so very lovely to begin with and yet now, after the first two wonderful seasons, you try to tell us that is going to drive a wedge in between them, but we know different because you wrote it that way to begin with. Please don't end them. The lack of them tonight made the show a whole lot less for me personally.

[Claire]

Why are you ending Meredith and Derek right in front of us and so SO painfully? Why? A group of us get together every week to watch this show and week after week we walk away defeated in what you are doing to them... Why? I hate how you are rewriting their love story...Why are you giving up on them despite fans overwhelming support?

[Jessica]

I LOVE LOVE Meredith and Derek. Grey's Anatomy, please don't end these two. They are why I watch the show.

[Brigette]

Another great episode!

Loved how Mer and the Cheif paid their respects, so to speak, with Ellis's ashes.

Loved how Callie and Christina are bonding and now roomies (that will be fun to see!)

LOVE what Bailey said to George. No, things are not black and white, and no, he's not a bad guy. Thank you for finally stating that.

One complaint though: totally don't get why now Derek says he has to start dating. His relationship w/ Mer makes like, zero sense.

BUT that's okay with me, b/c I am heavily invested in Gizzie. I was about to complain tonight about the lack of Gizzie-ness until those last five seconds with all the smiling and hand holding. AW! And the previews for next week?! Squeeeee!!! I can't believe that they are actually TOGETHER! After all the fretting over the summer, and the rumers, and stupid Ausiello...anyway...I'm happy.

One more complaint though. I thought it was weird that the others weren't more shocked about George and Izzie. Mer was just kind of like, okay, I'm happy for you, not like, "but you're married!" Not like I wanted her to react that way, but I just thought it was kinda...nonchalant...

One more complaint. Alex and Ava are weird. I was like, ewwww. Don't get that. Don't get what happened. Is Ava coming back or what? Whatever, as long as Alex is away from Izzie I don't care what he does.

I'll leave you with a compliment: Cosette is a great name!
Can't wait for next week!!!

Enjoyed the episode. Congratulations on the birth of your daughter.

Why is no one except Meredith spoken of in the blog? There are fans here that watch for everyone.

[ali]

Krista! I was so excited to see your name at the opening credits--I always so, so enjoy your episodes.

I'll admit, this particular espisode wasn't exactly my favorite... Don't get my wrong; I thoroughly enjoyed it... maybe Halloween just isn't my favorite holiday. (and maybe I don't so much love the extra bit of gore here).

I liked a lot of the arcs this week, but must say I'm a little concerned that this bigger cast is leading to episodes that are storyline-heavy. I love this cast and would hate to see anyone go, but I would rather less of a charector in a given episode, and get storylines that are further explored in return, than continue to have these episodes with so many arcs.

That being said, there was so much I liked about this episode. I loved the Mer trick-or-treating for ears storyline. Loved Cristina and Callie laughing in the OR. Loved Lexie talking to Meredith about her mom's cat.

Thanks for such an enjoyable episode; can't wait for next week!

[Amanda McDreamy]

I love how quickly you posted! Great job!

I liked this episode, but I'm getting annoyed how all of your previews show so much more, but yet they never seem to measure up. And I know that's what previews are all about, but I always liked that Grey's didn't really do that.

I hate the George and Izzie thing. Hate, hate, hate it! I really hope they get over that quick. And they are talking about being together, but he isn't even divorced yet! I just think it's crazy. Izzie should be with Alex. Let's fix this and get it straight writers!

I liked the Derek and Mark bonding. It's really one of my favourite parts of Grey's now.

I also really liked that there was more bonding between all the "new" residents. Like how they were when they were interns. It was nice to see them actually being friends instead of us viewers just knowing they are friends. Proof and reassurance is a good thing.

Thanks for a good episode. And I hope your 7 month old enjoys his first Halloween =)

[Mariea]

Thank you for George and Izzie, they are so gorgeous together, when George grabs her hand and gently presses on it and she just smiles at him, wow, just brought tears of joy to my eyes.

[Jayne from MI]

LOVED THIS EPISODE-PERFECT! I laughed and cried...it's been so long! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! I'm thrilled to see Meredith work toward healing and moving on (with Derek I hope!)

Amazing scene with George saying he would have given his dad his heart if he could have saved him. Also loved the scene when Izzy calls out Christina. In my opinion Christina is as dark and twisty as Meredith (if not more so!) Super funny scene with Callie and Christina in the OR! Such a great episode I could go on and on (I watched it twice)!

For the record, I'm never surprised when I see Krista's name attached to my favorite episodes... it always seems to work out that way! KUDOS KRISTA!

[marie]

Really excited about George and Izzie, hope we get a kiss next week, we need one. Although that scene at the end with them was the most ebautiful thing ever, they are so in love. Makes me happy!

[B]

Amazing episode Krista! For some reason I just knew that Mer would put Ellis to rest somewhere in the hospital it just makes sense. Your episode was the first one this season that got me crying (George explaining to the father that his daughter would want him to take the heart). So much truth was put out there with each of the characters.

[C]

Loved the episode tonight. Heartbreaking and charming all at once.

[Stacey]

I like seeing Callie spunkier and stronger. Last week she admitted she didn't forgive George, now all the sudden they are getting divorced, without even discussing it? I don't get Callie moving in with Christina. She's RICH. Maybe it's so we can see more interaction. I can't stand that silly woman doctor that is all scatterbrained (Sydney?) OK, so Ava is back.....they have 1 night, she leaves the shirt so he can smell her. I guess now we have to wait and see if he goes after her. I was in shock when that man cut his foot off. I mean, my mouth was hanging open, good job doing something unexpected. I thought the heart donation story line was very touching and sad at the same time. I hope more people consider what they would do in an unforeseen death and actually register to be an organ donor so their wishes are carried out. I think it's neat to watch Bailey become more of a friend to her previous interns. There isn't such a wall between them and she's able to be more personable with them. I really miss an OB doc on the show, so if one is brought in for McDreamy's new love interest, I hope it's either an OB/GYN or a psychiatrist for the staff to talk to.....not Norman though, he's too silly.......someone more serious so we can really get inside the way they think, not just what they say to each other. What happened to the guys from the bar? I mean, they were adopting a baby and we haven't seen them since.

[supafly]

great episode! i laughed out loud numerous times! seems like this episode everyone is moving on or at least is trying to. new things are a cooking up..can't wait til next week. yay! go gizzie!:)

btw..i always had the idea about the whole "ashes" in different countries deal.

[Gizzierules]

Episode 12 already? Wow, going fast. I really hope you have not dropped Gizzie at that point in time, because after today's show, I am more in love with them than ever. The way they looked at each other in the end, swoons!
<
Loved that mer was on their side and loved Bailey's speech to george, he is not a bad guy, he just made a mistake.

And Callie married him a week after his dad's death and then she is surprised the marriage is failing? Please!

[Jen in Canada]

I've loved all the new epis and I've even got past alot my Gizze loathing (not all of it mind you lol) but this constant up and down with Mer/Der is getting unbearable. I love the show for all of it's characters and storylines but what drew me in and keeps me watching every week is Mer/Der. There has never been another couple on television that has captivated me in this way and it breaks my heart and wears my patience to see them keep going around on this merry-go-round of perpetual angst. Enough is enough. I and many other viewers find it tiresome and I don't know how much longer people will be willing to sit back and take it. Please deal with them, let Mer find some closure and move on before we as viewers do the same.

[Paul]

Ellen Pompeo is magic for sure. Meredith Grey is easily my favorite character on the show and tonight she shows why Meredith is the center of SGH.

She forgives Izzie/George when Christina cannot do so, she helps a boy to get his ears and most importantly SHE IS TRYING. SHE IS TRYING SO HARD FOR DEREK. She loves him and SHE wants so badly to be there. We do too. We so want her to be with him. We, like Shonda, root for her and him together.

Ellen Pompeo is simply wonderful. Her lovely and hearthreaking scene with Richard was so beautiful. We root for her..WE KNOW she's trying. In the end, I watch because I have hope. Hope for her comfort in life, hope for her to become that woman she so wants to be and my BIGGEST hope, for her and Derek to have that relationship that we've all wanted her to have since we first saw her on screen with him four seasons ago!

We all live in hope. Thank you for this episode.

[Denise]

Perfect show. All that was missing was our Meredith and Derek. Once you've finally united them, then perfection is not far away!

[Trisha]

That was the best episode yet. Alex and Rebecca were hot hot hot, so much so that it took my Mer/Der obsessive mind of their drama rollercoaster and got me excited again.

The Mark/Derek teasing was fantastic and Bailey and George's relationship is so wonderful.

Last but not least, the Richard/Mer scene laying Ellis to rest was perfect... thank you Krista.

[Nina]

Krista, I should have known you were writing when we had such a wonderful episode. So sorry about your dad, breaks my heart. My mom feels the same way and her dad died 10 years ago.

I want to tell you thank you for the wonderful george and Izzie scene at the end, after last week, I was a bit losing hope with them, but this week, you brought them back as great and better than ever.

I loved how they dealt with this and I love that their love got them through the day.

And Bailey is right, it takes two to break a marriage and you do not elope with a grieving dad under no condition.

I do feel bad for Callie, but after tonight's episode, who can deny george and Izzie belong together?

[Amy]

George and Izzie were *amazing*. I am so so happy for them.

I love Meredith, her story is so sad, I wish Derek hadn't unknowingly put so much pressure on her to be okay all the time.

Callie and Mark please <333

But again, George and Izzie look wonderful and in love, and SO SO far past just sexual attraction, they look so beautiful together, so calm and comfortable. Like coming home.

[Tiana]

Bring on Gizzie please. Shondra you are doing an awesome job with them

[BeckySue]

I so so so 'got' that moment between Meredith and the Chief. It moved me to tears. My own Mom passed away earlier this year. We all got a little bit of her ashes in a tiny little urn, but, the rest of her is still sitting in her box, on top of her tv in her house (that my brother now owns). My Dad's ashes sit right next to hers. I don't think any of us could bear to part with them. Somehow, having them there, means keeping them 'here'. Make sense?
I digress...I get the George/Callie/Izzy thing. I do. I don't care for it. I do like how Callie is standing up for herself. But, I have a feeling that this isn't going to last long. And, really, is Izzy in ANY position to be grinning so much? Can't wait to see how it goes with Christina and Callie being roomies. What a hoot.
And that little boy with no ears? Could he be ANY cuter?? He's the one who gave Meredith the idea on what to do with Ellis's ashes. Let's give credit where it's due. I hope to somehow see him again in future episodes. I mean, if his Mom works in the hospital, couldn't y'all arrange it?

[Mary from Washington]

Hey Krista,

First of all I just wanted to say that I love you. I had been checking since the summer to see when you were going to be writing an episode this season, and when I found out you were doing this one I was telling all of my friends. I absolutely love your writing. You have a gift with dialogue and storytelling that is so rare. I just want you to know that even though writers don't always get the credit or admiration they deserve, there is a group of people (i.e. ME) who do know who you are and would be just as excited to meet you as any actor on the show. I'm a huge fan and I appreciate and love the work you do :).

Now on to the episode. Can I just say SUPERB. It was funny, sad, sweet, and beautiful all at once. This episode struck the perfect balance that a drama series should have (i.e. Grey's is back!).

I could have used a tiny more MerDer (the couple I live and breathe for), but I understand that it didn't really happen because of the things Mer was dealing with and that's ok once in a while. I just don't want something like last year where weeks and weeks go by with less than 30 seconds of MerDer in each.

I do love that Mer is growing so much though. She said in the premiere, "It hurts to grow. Anybody who tells you it doesn't is lying." And I love that she's really trying to "evolve." She doesn't want to end up like her mother. She wants to be with Derek. These are huge steps. I know it will be a slow process, but I'm ready for it and am excited to see Mer embrace love and life.

I guess I should wrap this up since you'll have hundreds of more comments to read, but I just want to say that I truly appreciate everyone working for this show. I know it's a lot of work to come in every day and turn out a beautiful product, and I know that if it weren't for everyone including the actors, writers, directors, producers, and everyone in between, it wouldn't happen. So thank you again for giving us a wonderful week of Grey's and I can't wait for next Thursday.

---Mary Senn

P.S. If you ever need an intern who will work for free during the summer doing anything you possibly need I'd be more than willing to oblige. I'm a film studies major at Yale, so I need work experience and some sunshine lacking in New Haven :).

[Nicole]

Great episode. When Meredith was wondering where to put her mother's ashes, I had the same thought that the only place she would want to be was in the OR. Fantastic ending with the Chief, "Mer's fake daddy", at her side to put Ellis to rest.

I understand Derrick's need to find what he is looking for and I hope Meredith can work fast enough to get it together. But I suppose in true drama fashion, she will only be ready once he finds someone else.

[Deana]

BEST episode yet guys!!! I seriously was floored by the dialogue. I absolutely loved the Mer/Der interaction over her mother's ashes (very vintage Grey's). I love how Mer is trying, really trying to accept Der's love. She thinks the first step to doing this is by truly letting her mother rest. She is trying to become whole. Derricks speech last week really got to her and she is taking steps!!!

Then not even 10 minutes into the episode we get Ava/Alex!!! I am floored by the intensity of this encounter and saddened by her leaving at the end. Let's just hope she just went down the street and checked into a hotel, and did not check out of Seattle for good.

The Dr Hahn/Christina dynamic will make for a great antagonistic relationship in the future and Kudos for that!!! Christina, who prides herself in being the best was called out for her worst- whether it was true or not.

George/Callie/Izzie- where do I begin. First, I was pissed at Callie for calling out Izzie in front of her collegues. Then I thought, I would probably do that too if I were in that situation. Hurt the one that hurt me.....hmmmm. I am liking how this is developing- not making it easy on anyone in the situation. However they did "make it through the day".

Bailey- Seriously! I love her so much. I really can see her dilemma, being a working mom and trying to please her husband and herself. Chandra Wilson's brilliance amazes me week to week. She is my favorite actress on Grey's and on TV right now. Please tell her that!!

KEEP IT UP!! This episode ranks up in my top 10.

[down on Derek]

Seriously??? I loved the episode except for the part where Derek says he needs to start dating. Excuse me? Did he just not say (last week) that he loved Meredith, that he wanted to marry her, that he wanted to have children w/ her and die in her arms? He said he would wait. Yes, he did say if someone else came along while he was waiting he wasn't sure what he would do, but come on!!! Does that mean to start LOOKING for someone else a week later?

I feel like Derek is a total jerk and maybe HE doesn't deserve Meredith. She was awesome in this episode, by the way, who wouldn't want someone who spends her whole day helping a little kid.

I loved that Ellis went down the sink...I was hoping Meredith would put her somewhere in the hospital as that was her greatest love. And I liked that the chief was right there w/ Mer.

I loved the interaction btwn Lexie and Meredith. Excellent writing. I was laughing my butt off.

So I loved it all in all, but come on... make Derek be a little more realistic. People don't bare their soul and then move on a minute later. If he can, then he obviously doesn't really love her.

Like I said last week, I am one of GA's biggest fans, but I can only wait so long for Mer/Der to work out.

I will wait though, but unlike Derek, when I say I will wait...I actually mean it.

[Kelly]

I LOVED tonight, absolutely everything and especially Izzie and George, LOVE them!

[kayla shinae]

wow. this was definitely one of my favorite episodes. i think meredith showed amazing character growth. the scene where she said she didn't get halloween? that absolutely broke my heart. what kind of kid doesn't get halloween? (the kind that grow up to be dark and twisty obviously). but anyways, amazing.

oh and a few other things:

-the mark and derek friendship is one of my favorites. right after cristina and meredith. i love them together.

-i freakin love cristina. she always makes me laugh. like seriously, every episode.

-i'm praying like hell derek doesn't date. i don't think i could swallow watching him with other women.

and lastly, i am loving this season. i think you all are doing an amazing job and really getting it back into the season 1 style, only with a new and improved feel.

xoxo

[Auni]

Beautiful episode. You always write very meaningful ones, Krista. But Derek dating?? I thought he just said someone might come along, not that he would be ACTIVELY LOOKING (which he did quite a bit of in this episode). Mer is trying, and the picture of Derek that you have developed in the last few episodes is that of someone who would understand and be a LITTLE more patient then looking for someone right after he tell Mer he wants to marry her. A little strange--the only really eye-squint-inducing part of this episode.

Also, I really love how you brought up the whole "pick me, choose me, love me" thing in Meredith's dream. Although it's a bit of an easy shortcut into a character's mind and subconscious, clearly things were not going so well in conveying Meredith's inner life to Grey's audiences before, so I am at least glad that we got some insight there. I like that you used the "pick me" scene, and then that scene with her mother, to show Meredith's fear of being alone. But I don't think that's all the "pick me" scene was about, and not NEARLY enough has been said about it. As I said in a comment last week, the "pick me" scene is ulta important because of how it contributed to Meredith's intimacy issues and overall damaged-ness. I really feel that the way DEREK hurt her when he chose Addison after she laid her heart out for him should have been addressed long ago (i.e. the beginning of last season, which it very briefly was when Meredith was on morphine and in Addison's comment to Derek, and then Derek walking away...but then their relationship turned into an issue of Derek needing space and the way he hurt her/his fear of hurting her again was never addressed). As Dr. Bailey so eloquently said, things are never black and white. It takes two to get to a certain place in a relationship. Derek hurt Meredith and gave her major trust issues, and I really wish Meredith would come to terms with that and they would just talk about. THAT, to me, is one of the major issues they need to overcome as a couple--the fact that they keep hurting each other (without always meaning to) and where it all started. But please don't make her come to terms with it in a dream. Or an afterlife, for that matter. You writers are better than that. I know it's hard, but you're so good. You showed that to us in previous seasons when the drama and writing was so tightknit that I never once questioned a decision you made for the characters and plot (until the middle of last season, i.e. Meredith drowning and beyond). I know you writers have it in you--let's see it back! Please don't leave loose ends (or tie them up when it's too late for anyone to make the connection to where they came undone in the first place).

[Jen]

I am just so incredibly disappointed with this season. I have resorted to taping Greys and watching CSI , please give me a reason to reverse this tragic situation. Get it together people! The show does not feel well thought out or carefully contemplated as it did before. I hope you all can fix it before it is unfixable.

[Katie]

Krista!

I feel like hugging you. I don't know you, but I feel like hugging you. Because this blog? Hilarious. You sound vaguely drunk but I'm assuming that is the exhaustion talking, which makes entire sense. And you're allowed to be tired. You're allowed to be anything.

Because you are the best.

I feel like hugging you because...for the first time in 10 months, I enjoyed Grey's. Really enjoyed Grey's. I wasn't hugging a glass of wine wondering how much I could possibly drink without getting too drunk, but just enough to dull the pain. It didn't end with me crying on my bedroom floor, contemplating why the hell I even watch this show. It left me...happy. Entirely happy and at peace. I actually enjoyed it 50 times more than Supernatural...for the first time in 10 months.

So...thank you.

First of all, that little boy? He's my FAVORITE. I love him. The "Daddy" moment was classic and hilarious. His interactions with Meredith were GREAT.

Derek and Mark. Love them. They are the highlight of my week.

Alex and Ava/Rebecca/Jane Doe. Seriously? WTF? She's a terrible woman and a terrible mother. And they just...I don't buy it. At all.

Gizzie. End them.

Mer/Der. I feel surprisingly good about them. No matter what you throw at us (*cough*Lauren Stamille*cough*), I think they're going to be better than okay. They're going to be together forever. I just know that. But then, I'm a bit bright and shiny after the best episode of Grey's in a long time.

So yes, I love you. And I missed you. Because you are most definitely the best. Even my mother liked tonight's episode, and she usually spends the entire time complaining. But it was a beautiful episode!

Oh, and for the record...if the writer's strike happens, Alicia and I are entirely willing to be scabs. You don't even have to pay us. Well...paying the living expenses would be good...but otherwise...we're not asking for pay. We just want to keep Grey's going for a whole season!

Love you Krista! And thanks for a great episode! Oh, and congrats on the baby!

[KCS]

Loved all but Gizzard. Can't cope with it.....I can see I'll be fast fowarding thru their scenes next week as well. Wish folks saw how wrong it is.

Why do u guys mistreat marriage so? I do believe grey's is setting a bad example especially when you have so many young viewers. Wanna know who they are? They are the ones that love Gizzie. Sure there r a few mature folks that dig them.....but I would need to have a serious talk with them.

Anywho....I mean it when I say I LOVED everything else. Wish you coulda mentioned it.

P.s. Since when do adulterers get off the hook after 1 day? Gizzie has the worst moral center on this show. Denny is a joke now and that love was beautiful. Y'all mad Callie seem like she's crazy for ever saying yes to george and the only one that's got this right is Yang.

Whatever....Gizzie pisses me off and it doesn't allow me to say how much I love everything else (mark and der, mer and lexie, bailey, yang, callie, alex! Minus ava....she's married!!....funny nurses)

Please....less Gizzie Anatomy.....MORE Grey's Anatomy.

[Alexa]

Great show like all the ones you write.

Loved Meredith

Loved Lexie

George and izzie are love, pure and simple

And loved Alex and Ava

And Gizzie loving next week makes me so happy!

[Canadianscary&damage]

I love this week's episode. LOVE IT!
The part with Meredith and the Chief was perfect, don't worry Krista that was the ONLY way to put to rest Ellis Grey, was very respectful. I think.
Seeing Alex in a more romantic situation and not being rude and annoing was very nice, you should bring Ava more often!
Torn about the Gizzie thing... I knew it was too soon for George to get married when he was still grieving his father's dead but really I never like Callie in the first place... nothing against the actress Sara Ramirez but I never liked Callie.
Excellent writters, the episodes are getting better and better, I can't wait for next week's episode, please keep writting so we can have a lot of Grey's this year.
Congratulation on your babygirl Krista!

[Angela T]

Oh dear. Episode 12? So, it's too late to beg that Alex does not go merrily down the path of character assassination? Bad enough that he slept with a married woman, but it's being played as romantic. We were supposed to view Alex not going after a married woman last season (until the cheesy end) as cowardly. I viewed it as moral. And, now, we're supposed to cheer for the adulterous sex and hope Alex has "matured" enough to not care that she's married. At least, I assume, since you didn't mention him (funny, I thought once he began on the adulterous sex route, he'd be in with you people). You know, Alex's actions were indefensible, unjustifiable, and just plan disgustingly wrong (like all adultery is). Could you at least show him feeling remorse, and manning up to being wrong? It would be keeping him in character -telling Bailey she could yell at him and that he deserved it for his actions with the meth dad. Him acknowledging how sleeping with Olivia hurt Izzie. Even his guilt in not listening to Norman this episode. But, I believe it's futile since you're already up to episode 12 and you writers act like we're supposed to be falling for the "love" story of Alex and Ava. (Couldn't she have at least gotten a divorce?)

About the best thing in this episode was Cristina not giving in an inch with Izzie or George. That supposed smack down George got from Bailey? Sure, a small bit of criticism wrapped up in gooey sweet "See how great George is!" silliness. And, blaming Callie at all? The only two it took to get to George sleeping with Izzie were George and Izzie. Callie can have partial responsibility for there being trouble in the marriage,for them getting married too soon, full responsibility for not trusting George with the fact that she's rich, but the adultery is on George and Izzie's head. That, my friend, is black and white.

[Carla]

Oh God, I so hope we get a Gizzie kiss next week and they don,t get interrupted again or I will scream, I want a real kiss.

But this episode was SO good, forget about Cristina, I loved how Mer and Bailey did not judge Gizzie and Mer said she was happy for them.

I loved the sexy love not sibling love comment, little hint at the people who think they are like siblings, which is the most ridiculous thing ever, and loved Izzie rolling her eyes at that, I do too when I read it.

Those two are hot (and sweet) and nothing like siblings at all.

If they are, I just might be for incest, LOL

[ceb]

Gorgeous final scene... and you are making me like Izzie and George!

[Kaitlin (ShadowedAngel)]

1. WHAT DO YOU ALL HAVE AGAINST MARRIAGE? This is very disconcerting to me. Next blog, next week, next episode, I'd like some explanation. This is entirely unsatisfactory and disturbing.

2. Here's the recipe for a functional relationship, since I've seen that you botched it a few times and have weird hockey puck things coming out of the oven instead of delicious golden-brown relationship:

A. Take 1 part wonderful woman and 1 part nice (or even dreamy) man--mix together as evenly as possible

B. If parts man and woman start separating, use a few sprinkles of conversation and a dash of common sense to reconnect the entities, or separate entirely and try either new part man or new part woman

C. If part man happens to be self-obsessed jerk such as the Derek Shepherd Brand, take electric food processor and whip soundly with a cup of self-awareness (at times mixed with "significant-other shouting" or "personal epiphany" to keep the self-awareness from separating from the part man. The latter is rare, but works very well; the former is very common and generally helps, but has side-effect of causing minor separation and/or denial) until frothy and smooth. This tends to make the part man connect better with part woman.

D. Take a dash of personal issues and emotional drama for flavor, since relationship will taste bland and will spoil quickly without it. Be careful not to overdo it, though, as excess personal issues and emotional drama will unsettle relationship and cause it to crumble very quickly out of the oven (and taste very sour).

E. As soon as the mixture has settled, put into preheated oven with 400 degree sex and let settle until golden brown. There is no determinate amount of time until cooked, so watch carefully and occasionally check readiness.

I know your relationships will come out very tasty!

Point is: I'm only complaining about these things because everything else totally rocked. Except for Gizzie. And Izzie and her hypocritical mess. But that can't be fixed right away without a 9mm and a shovel, which is hardly the type of thing you want to espouse on television. Really.

Good luck with 412!

[La_La]

I really LOVED tonights episode. I felt so awkward for Izzie and the rest when Callie announced Izzie and George's affair. I know Izzie deserved some humiliation but it was still rough to see.

I'm really glad George and Izzie are gong through this together. I know how their relationship started was a horrible way to begin, but I can't help but love them. They make me smile. They give me those little fuzzy feelings that means you must be doing something right. They give me hope. I love the idea of falling in love with your best friends. It makes things so much more complicated, but it wouldn't be greys if it wasn't. So thank you. Thank you for giving me something to hope for. I hope to see more of them. Develop beyond friendship and into a real relationship.

I loved that Meredith finally made peace with her mother. She realized that she didn't have to be like her mother and she found the perfect place to send her off. It was perfect. I also really loved that Lexie told her that creepy yet sweet story about the cat. Very Sweet. I'm more interested in seeing Lexie and Meredith's relationship grow than Derek's at this point. Let Derek and Meredith grow a little independently. I'm sure they can find their way back to each other eventually.

I'm intrigued by Callie and Cristina. I think it will be good for them to bond and get out some of those emotions from being hurt by love. Although I have to say I'm not loving Cristina being so judgmental about George/Izzie. Izzie is right, Cristina/Meredith are a closed circle. As much as Derek and Meredith need to grow independently I think Cristina and Meredith need to a little as well.

Alex and Ava were cute although Alex is a bit of a hypocrit now for getting onto Izzie about George. Although I know that was much more about it being George than George being married. Still I hope Ava can allow Alex to keep an open mind about George and Izzie now.

Next week looks all kinds of awesome! I cannot wait to see what happens with George and Izzie. I'm already smiling just thinking about it. Thursday could not come sooner. You guys are just that good! Thanks again!

[Rina]

When the heck did Cristina become judgemental? Because I don't like it and her walking away when george said they were waiting out of respect for Callie really irked me, I don't see her having judged Mer when Mer DID NOT wait to tell Addison or Fynn before shagging Derek at the prom. George and Izzie have been waiting and resisting the urges, and yes she judges them! Whatever, you are runing her!

Glad Mer didn't judge as she was in the same situation and what I love the most about Mer is her lack of judgment, that is her best quality.

I am glad at least Gizzie have some friends on their site and they have each other, and that makes me so delighted.

[Gizziefan]

OK, I am still squeeing over that last scene with George and Izzie, they are just too cute for words. Every time I think I can't fall more in love with them, I do, so thanks for that.

Abd loved the scattering of Ellis's ashes, very touching.

[Bye]

I have to say you are one of my favorite of the writers so I was very excited about this ep.

It wasnt my favorite,but I did enjoy the MerMark scene and the Mer/Richard scene and I definitely got it, it was perfect.

It's really hard for me to get excited for anything Grey's has to offer now that I know whats coming. The new love interest for Derek.. he's supposed to just move on quickly from the love of his life? find the woman that is ready to give him what hes looking for so quickly? How are we supposed to believe that??

I, along with millions of others cannot sit and watch this. I cannot stomach watching Derek move on with someone else.

Have you not noticed the ratings decrease? well its about to get worse.

Now I just have to decide whether CSI or The Office would better suit me.

Bye

[Casey]

I loved Eva's return! I thought it was great when Alex was finally able to fall asleep when he was next to her, and she left him her shirt to be used in the same way she described her daughter needing it. Because he does, he needs her.

And George and Izzie, I love it. I love the Bailey speech, because it is so true! Her husband is constantly making her to be the villain just as Callie always did to George. And it does take two. I am so happy with all of this

[Sushi432]

It was nice to George and Izzie smile and be a happy couple. Against all odds, they still deserve it. Thank you for making Meredith say "I'm happy for you guys." Somebody needed to say it. I mean, geez, Callie was the victim here more then anybody but that doesn't mean people didn't see George's marriage was a sham. Anyways, nice episode. Izzie and George are coming along nicely.

[Neela]

Ha, I wonder what the Alex is so great and better than izzie camp is saying now. He screwed a married mother, and he didn't even let her talk, just jumped on her. Gizzie at least were drunk and it was obvious they were in love the way they were smiling at ecah other and touchin ecah other.

Alex doesn't seem to know anything other than screweing, same thing with Izzie, no feelings there, no tenderness, he should take some lessons from George in that, which is why George gets the girls to fall for him and Alex doesn't

I sow ant Izzie or anyone to call him an hypocrit for his disgusting behavior last week and his comments on george

[Lina]

Thank you for the beautiful george and Izzie scene at the end, will easily go in my top 10 favorite Grey moments ever. I swear one look between them is hotter than Ava and Alex or any couple mauling each other.

TR and katherine and Gizzie rock my world!

[Ann]

Meredith was amazing this episode. Her first trick or treating, her with Mark and the scene with the cheif.

Derek not so much. If she is not working him waiting for then get her someone better who think she is.

[Christina]

I love george and izzie, they are so cute together. keep those gizzie scenes coming, I love it.

[Lia]

GEORGE AND IZZIE ARE AWESONE, GEORGE AND IZZIE ARE LOVE, GEORGE AND IZZIE TOTALLY ROCK THE UNIVERSE!

[Betty]

You know I really love Alex and Ava, but how much of an hypocrit does Alex look like now?

george and Izzie were the highlight for me, well they always were, but I was disappointed lastw eek by their lack of scenes and you so made up for it.

I am glad Bailey, the one married person in the group, understood there were two sides to the story and told George that. I really love the Bailey and Gorge relationship and could not have taken her being mad at him.

And Callie? I had sympathy last week but it evaporated really fast when she outed izzie like that, she has no class or professionalism, and when I learned she married george a week after his dad died. How do you do that to someone you love?

I don,.t see Izzie ever doing that to him.

How dare Cristina judge them? You are making me hate ehr and Alex this season.

I loved Mer and I think she deserves better than Derek

And george and Izzie, they own me heart and soul

[marlena]

I don,t get how anyone cannot love george and Izzie because to me they are the most beautiful couple in the world. They make me smile like no other. I love how they smile at each other, I have never seen them do that with anyone.

I am so glad you are going on with them because if you didn,t, you would have broke my heart intio a million tiny pieces

[Marcy]

Gotta give you props for a great, fun episode al the way around. Loved Meredith tonight.

I do wish your blog had explained more about the opening dream sequence. Maybe there is nothing more to read into this than that. But, as a new mom, I get the mommy brain problem so I forgive you.

I totally agree about therapy. Let's get Mer to a shrink ASAP. But, Der needs it too. Let's not kid ourselves. He may have had a more normal upbringing, but the guy has issues.

I know you've got a new love interest planned for Derek and you are going to take us on a possibly very painful ride with that. Okay, but make it short. Somehow, I think you will, but who knows.

[Gwen]

There were so many great things about this episode--Meredith trick or treating for ears, Derek paying the little boy to call Mark Daddy, the Nurses United Against Dr. Sloan club, the cheif and Meredith washing the ashes down the drain, Lexie's cat story, Cristina and Callie laughing together over their ruined romances...all classic Grey's.

But I just can't stand Gizzie and Avalex. I miss Alex and Izzie. Can we please get rid of Ava? I thought Alex would be better than sleeping with a married woman. Why is adulturey handled so lightly on this show? Even Bailey is condoning it now. Ugh.

[Darla]

mark and Derek is fast becoming one of my favorite things on the show (after Gizzie), they are so much better than mer and Derek.

Don,t get me wrong, I adore mer and Derek separetly.

Meredith is amazing and I loved her standing up for her friends and helping the little boy. Ellen Pompeo is amazing.

But Derek brings her down and same with him.

Alex and Ava, why is he judging Izzie when he is sleeping with a married woman who had a baby and he is sober too?

Gizzie fell in love but it took alcohol for them to act on their feelings. I guess they are better people.

I love the Bailey and george's relationship SO much

I love his friendship with Lexie.

I love him and Izzie together, they actually make me weep for joy sometimes they are so amazing.

That scene at the end, wow, wow, wow

Please never end them or ruin them, they are too special

[Katie]

GEORGE AND IZZIE FOREVER!

[Stephanie S]

First things first, congrats on the baby :)

WOW! I don't even have a favorite episode anymore..I give up, lol. They just get better and better.

Meredith, I am so freaking proud of her *beams* Ellen Pompeo rocked this episode!!
Loved the scene with Derek and Mer, that was priceless, lol. It was strange but it was just soooo Meredith, lol. Also the gorgous scene with her and the Cheif. Just broke my heart and I cried for all three of them. Also the beginning, I am OCDing about that scene, lol.

Whats it mean...ugh I can't stop it. But I LOVE IT!!!! This is why I love this show...makes me feel so many things *grins* Granted the anxiety could be lessend about my MerDer ship *wink wink nudge nudge* lol.

I do have to state that I am not for Derek dating, only Meredith...the thought of Derek dating or even liking someone enough makes me sick to my stomach and my head hurt :(

Speaking of priceless, "Daddy"? Oh My Gosh, LOL. Eric Dane nailed that look he had on his face! Also props to Patrick Dempsey who was hysterical with Sydney lol. I loved those scens and that Meredith asked the boy if Sydney was pretty. I do have to say that when she asked about sheep herding, I got a mental picture of Derek herding sheep!!! LOL...not a bad image. Love their friendship and I am glad that they are there for each other. Their buds :)

I love the return of Ava/Rebecca. I think there is alot to explore and I love the TV Guide with them on the cover, saw it and had to have it. I loved the scene with Norman and Alex, I was glad he was there when Norman woke up in surgery. I also freakin love Norman...he really is a great intern *smiles* I hope he sticks around though (even though he is leaving for another dept). I will miss him if he leaves..dang I am already attached, lol.

The rest? Just amazing. Loved Izzie and Cristina in the stairweell, thank you for Dr Hahn, the boy with no ears (one of my favorite patients) he and Meredith trick or treating was made more special with the knowledge that she never did that growing up. Callie and Cris laughing in the OR...that was hilarious. Shocked about Cheif and Adele :( I was hoping they would make it work. Loved Bailey and felt so bad that her husband doesn't understand. I hope they can make it work. Love Lexie and the story of the dead cat, lol. I am really enjoying Lexie and Meredith becomming friends and along the way sisters.

And last but not least Gizzie....I like them and I think tonight I saw the love story there :) Looking forward to where it goes.

Loved it and I can't wait for next week. Thank you for a wonderful start to Season 4. I am looking forward to the road ahead and only see great things for not only the show but for us fans.

Happy Halloween!!!!

[Lorna]

LOL at the Katie comment, Ava is horrible, so this is all her fault and Alex shares no blame? he is the disgusting cad who sleeps with a former patient after judging george and Izzie for falling in love and sleeping together ONCE while drunk. Ava actually wanted to talk but the pig was having none of it.

But you know I don't give a crap about Alex as long as he stays away from my george and Izzie

[Larena]

i was watching with my mom tonight and we were just about to complain about the lack of Gizzie 9they are the only couple we love in common) when this scene happened at the end and it was the God-most beautiful loving scene I have ever seen.

The way they beam at each other, wow, those two seriously make me believe in true love.

I want what they have so badly.

[Riana]

Oh yay Gizzie loving next wek, how hot are those two? But then a lot of couples are hot in this show, those two are so much more than hot. Not sure how to descibe it but they have this really special IT about them thats ets them so far apart from all the other couples on this show.

Please mroe of them! i could watch them for hours!

[Danny``]

Loved the show tonight, but every time I see a episode minus some GREAT Mer/Der I walk away a bit empty...

[Layla]

Well, I hope you post this as you never post any of my comments before.

Just want to say a HUGE thank you for the wonderful scene at the end with george and Izzie, I haven,t stop smiling for two hours now.

They have such chemistry and love..

I really pray they make it through all the days together

Alex and ava were gross though, why the constant camera on her ring, so we are reminded of what an huypocrit Alex was last week?

I already did!

[Mona]

More mark and Derek

Much more george and Izzie

End Meredith and Derek, we all are tired of them

Bring on a new girl for Derek and a new guy for Mer

And yes, GIZZIE RULES!

[Carrie]

Please never end George and Izzie, I love them so much and they get more wonderful every episode.

They are my total obsession.

And please more of Mark and Derek

And I love Lexie, George and Izzie,s friendship

[Alicia]

KRISTA!!!

I love you. I mean, I tell other writers all the time that they're my favourite writers but every single time you write an episode it makes me think that I might possibly be lying to the others. I honestly love you.

And let me just say thanks. A big huge thanks. Grey's is my show. I never ever miss it. But for the past...I don't even know how long, watching it is like some kind of stress test. Which probably is a good sign I'm overly involved but whatever. However...about half way through tonight's episode I realized I was leaning back on my couch, eating my Toblerone bar and actually just enjoying the episode. I didn't feel my heart racing, my head didn't feel all fuzzy, I didn't worry about passing out. I just...enjoyed. Actually I enjoyed immensly. So thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

So umm...this episode was just amazing. I loved how much Meredith grew in this episode alone. The apple line from Mark, the ashes being flushed away, everything was just perfect with her. I entirely love every bit of it. And honestly, I loved every bit of this episode. Mark and Derek, Cristina and Callie...even Izzie and George.

I would love to put in some critisizm or something, but I've got nothing.

Although I will say...this episode made it abundently clear that Meredith loves Derek desperately. She's terrified of losing him. And Derek is all sad about having to date again. And I fully expect a bumpy road. Apparently Lauren is for Derek and I'm just hoping not seriously, but yes, expecting things to get a little bumpy. But please don't loose this love story. Please let Meredith and Derek figure it out before it's too late. That's all I ask...that's all a lot of fans ask.

Anyway, really really loved this episode.

[mamaloa]

I loved this episode. I love Mark and Derek's frienship and teasing, and I love the idea of Derek having a new love interest. Love,Love, Love it. I liked the friendship that is building between Callie and Christina. Just like what Callie had with Addison. Almost. I still miss Addison, and wish that she were back in this scenario, more for Derek than Mark, but I am willing to see who comes in. I can't wait to see Derek in a real relationship. I also like Merideth and Lexie getting together as sisters. It's something that Meredith really needs, and also she needs Finn. I always love Bailey, no question about that. I think Sydney was cute, and it looks like McDreamy liked her a little bit. How about Dr. Hahn?? I don't know who this Lauren is that's supposed to be coming, or did she already get her? Well, I'll soon find out. Great episode. Now make a Thanksgiving, Christmas one.

[karen in wisconsin]

OH my gosh...I love Grey's even more than before.
I haven't commented this Season due to dealing with my own health..so here goes.

Congratulations on the birth of your Daughter...may she be healthy and bring you years of tears, smiles and love.
My Mom's ashes were taken in a UPS box by my Aunt in OK. to Texas and buried in between my Grandparents. My Brothers ashes...well some came back with me to WI from CA in 2003 and found there way to a couple places where we enjoyed our childhood. Also I have his hair that fell out after his 2nd round of Chemo..Cousin and I will burn it this coming spring and toss it to the wind.
I loved Meredith and the Chief respectfully placing the ashes where they did.
When Meredith says "My Mother didn't believe in anything." That wasn't totally true..Her Mom believed in Science and Medicine so in that respect I found it consoling that Mer & the Chief did what they did. Derek, dating, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Did I say that with enough expression?
Dr. Hahn being back is a good thing. Norman, going into Psych..yep sounds good.
Bailey..oh to think of her having trouble in her marriage...Chief warned her of that happening.
George and Izzie..somehow now it seems like it could be. Alex & Ava/Rebeccah...a bit of trouble with that, seeing as how she is married and where was her baby?
Dr. Sloan..he was on tonight.
Krista you gave me, a Greyfanatic one of the best
Grey's of the Season..
Hopefully all will work out before November 1..I know you all have been working lots.
Again, thanks for sharing your childhood memories. Personally, even as a child I didn't like Halloween, but it was tastefully done tonight.
What else can be said..
Great job.
with kindness your way..
karen
glad to hear your family honored your Dad's wishes..

[dlferriola]

I really liked your episode tonight. It was perfect for halloween with all the blood and guts. The way Mer is trying to move forward and mend herself for Der was touching. I just hope you keep them together because Der saying he has to start dating was not hopeful. We need them to be together because their chemistry rocks. Everyone moved forward tonight which was good. Miranda telling George he should not have gotten married was great and the or scene between Callie and Cristine was priceless. Fabulous episode and the ending was touching between the Chief and Mer. Thank you for the great job.

[Mary]

Loved, loved, loved this episode. It feels like Grey's is really back on track. And I like that Derek and Mark really seem to have reestablished a connection.

[Beautifully written]

Probably the best episode thus far this year with several beautiful poignant scenes & great humor is back!
"Daddy" priceless. Mark saying Derek is looking....funny, but don't like where it's heading. First time, there's just too many things that were good to mention.

The man accepting his daughter's heart, oh my God! Norman believing his Mary Beth wanted him to be near the best surgeons, the little boy telling Meredith about his goldfish; the Lexie Mer moment. Richard & Meredith putting Ellis to rest.

LOVED Meredith tonight. I'm rooting for her, she is trying, and it was heartbreaking to hear her tell Mark how she never went trick or treating, and when he said the apple fell far from the tree. How sad, she cannot hear that from Derek.

Ellen Pompeo was perfect in every scene.

Mer/Der - very disappointing, and for the first time, I'm beginning to think it's time to give up on them, and hence, since I still want to believe love can conquer all, and the love we've been told they share is real, perhaps, it's time to quit while ahead, and not have to witness his involvement in other relationships, which in essence means all he has said about the love of his life, and last week's speech, was as good as the next woman that came along and satisfied his needs.

[Miami Fan]

Great episode. But, just one thing, and no reflection on your wonderful writing.

The Mer/Der of it all kept me coming back. Tonight, realized that since the season began, if we watch the promos,we pretty much have scene all mer/der that there is, and especially tonight, one scene entirely scene before tonight, and then he never even bothers to find out what she did.
McDreamy was truly a disappointment tonight.

[Ashleigh]

Gizzie is still the nastiest thing to ever infest my living room.

I'm hoping with all that I am that you make Mark and Callie fall for one another. She can tame the manwhore and he can be the guy she needs.

[barb]

Is it true when Shonda said she is "rooting for Mer/Der" because seriously there's been nothing, but her words in her first podcast. Nothing of them to give me hope. Have you all run out of hope too? Please tell me you haven't because watching at times is painful now. I miss them. I mean them "together" I wish you as a writer did too.

[Bren]

All this progress Meredith is doing and trying the sad thing is it won't even matter. We already know she loses Derek to his new Lauren Stamille character.

It's so disheartening to know Meredith will just be kicked down some more by Derek leaving her so quickly for someone else.

Meredith was amazing to watch this week strongest she has been in a long time. If Derek can't see how amazing she is through his own selfishness it is his loss, because she deserves so much more than him.

She deserves a guy who thinks she is worth waiting for and loves her enough to do so. Not move on so fast with Lauren Stamille.

[Mitch]

Leaving aside the "Mer/Der of it all", Gizzie and even Ava, I want to touch on the two things that brought me to tears.

One was the man who was offered his own daughter's heart. I couldn't do that. I could never do that. I gave it to my son; I could never take it back. No matter what, I couldn't do it.

The other thing was something you mentioned in your blog, so you might like this: when it became clear that Meredith was putting Ellis' ashes down the scrub sink, the single thought that came to my mind was, "Perfect. That's perfect." And then it got even more perfect when Richard came in and helped.

Very nicely done. It's been a long time since I was able to chuckle while wiping away tears during this show.

Also, the brain does come back. Just one of those fun things about being a mom that nobody warns us about.
;-)

Mitch

[Sam]

BEST. EPPISODE. OF THE SEASON!!

Hands down.

Oh man. I don't even know where to begin.

I dont think I have ever laughed and cried so much in one Grey's eppisode in a very very long time.

I have never laughed so hard as when that little boy walked up to Mark and said "Daddy?" omg.... I just about died.

And Meredith carrying around mommy in a bag.. and Derek looking at her like she has finally gone around the bend. Priceless.

The George and his "I would have given my dad my heart" speech.. amazing. Just amazing.

Then the scene at the end with Meredith and the chief washing her mother down the sink was the most heartbereaking and amazing touching moment. It was just perfect. I have to say I felt a little cheated the way the Ellis story line seemed to end last season... but the way it was wrapped up in this eppisode was just perfect.

There were so many other things I loved, but I fogot what they were, the entire eppisode was just awesome. It has seemed like Greys is really back this season in the past few eppisodes... but this eppisode just proved that it IS back and better than ever!!!!

[Nikki]

The fact that you are making Meredith change for a man is ridiculous. Meredith should want to change for herself. I wish that you would make her have some type of backbone instead of constantly bending herself to change and heal on Derek's schedule. Sometimes I feel like the writers on this show give all the men a pass and let the women take the brunt of all the abuse.

[JoAnn from Hawaii]

OMG! THAT'S WHY I WATCH THIS SHOW! What a fantastic episode! I loved so many parts: everyone freaking out about the chainsawed leg and the Asian guy loving it, the dialog between George & Bailey, George & Izzie, Callie & Cristina, Mer & Lexie, Mer & the Chief, Chief & Derek, Sloan as the new counselor (Ok, this one takes some getting used to) AND Rebecca, Erica and Syndey back in the show?! LOVE IT!

Sort of glad Norman is out of there... he was a 2D character in a 3D show.

Happy, happy, HAPPY! Awesome all the way around. ~JoAnn

Great episode! Meredith didn't waste much screen time with Derek so she was actually enjoyable, allowed to be her own personality quirks and all, with a voice! Meredith without Derek is the only Meredith that's worthwhile.

People always love her scenes with Cristina or Alex or in this episode Mark... all the Meredith hate has come out of the Meredith that is connected to Derek--> the tequila lush one night stand girl, the pathetic 'pick me' girl, the mopey whiny girl who loses her panties... people never complain about Meredith in connection with Cristina or her friends. They complain about the Meredith who is half of MerDer. They like to drool over Dempsey and can't let go of MerDer because they were the original couple and the originals are always most popular, but plenty of people adored Burketina too and they're still watching even with no hope of their couple ever resurfacing. Meredith needs to grow and move on and she doesn't need to rush to be "ready" for Derek. She needs to be "ready" for herself and no one else. She needs to let Derek go and move on.

Meredith has two choices: Derek and misery, or health and happiness.

Maybe in the future, there'll be an option with happiness and Derek, but not with Meredith right now. Right now she needs someone else. Someone who is actually the dream guy for her-- someone who understands her, who's patient, who doesn't put pressure on her to conform to his needs...

Derek is horrible to and for Meredith and it pains me that it seems like so many fans don't see it because they're too busy drooling over Dempesy. (Dempsey is way more dreamy than Derek, by the way. So this is nothing against him. It's Derek Shepherd who is BY FAR the worst guy on the show (and considering George's behavior recently, that's saying a lot)

[Shannon]

This was by far my favorite ep of the season so far. I laughed, I cried, I loved it all! I love the friendship... er, whatever it might be... that's brewing with Cristina and Callie. Them being roommates? Never saw that coming, lol. But, it'll be fun. Meredith did what her mom would've wanted and the scene with her and Richard with Ellis' ashes at the sink was touching. Love Bailey - she just rocks! Period. I'm enjoying Lexie too, she's a nice addition to the show and I hope Meredith realizes she's holding judgement against the wrong person (though she's slowly getting better with that). The "Daddy" comment to Mark was priceless! On to my favorite, favorite people now... George & Izzie. OMG, these two are brilliant and only getting better. What a glorious pair and I'm dying to see next week's ep with them looking all romantic, finally being able to be together. It literally boggles my mind how some people continue to deny their chemistry. T.R. and Katie are doing a phenomenal job with Gizzie's story and I hope beyond hope that their relationship is allowed to grow and be the beautiful thing it is so we can watch and enjoy for a long time to come. I loooovvvveee Gizzie!!!

[tamz in ab]

I SERIOUSLY loved this episode...I haven't watched an episode in a LONG time that made me cringe(the patient who cut his leg off) laugh(the boy that went up to Sloan and said "DADDY"...HILARIOUS) cry twice(George convincing the father to take his daughter's heart AND Mer and the Chief spreading Ellis' ashes) and lastly mad because I HATE that Cristina is building an alliance with Callie...

[Joseba]

Thank you thank you thank you so much for the Gizzie scenes.

[sk]

... so Derek gets a new love interest ... then put Mer together with Sloane...
If Mer/Der won't be a couple for a while it'll be "funnier" to see Derek having issues this time.

[Diana R.]

I love that Sydney gets all schoolgirl crush-y on Derek and that Meredith says, "I can be cheerful."

The final scene with Meredith and the Chief and Ellis' ashes was poignant and beautiful.

A truly fantastic and enjoyable episode. Who doesn't love things in a baggy?

[Becky]

I did not pay attention to the begining credits and before I came here, I knew after watching this eppy that Krista wrote it. How did I know? Because it was brillant! It was funny, sad, and just the Grey's I fell in love with. You KNOW these characters and you wrote them as they should be written. Thanks Krista!

[Nicole]

I don't understand how Izzie can move so quickly from Denny. What they had was beautiful and lovely. What she and George have is shameful from the beginning of their relationship to I'm hoping a very public and humilating break up. Then I hope both George and Izzie can be alone for a while so they can really take time to grieve their losses (George's dad and Denny)

[Mark E]

I BOW DOWN TO ELLEN POMPEO. SHE IS BEYOND AMAZING. TONIGHT WAS PERFECT. thank you Ellen for such a perfect heart felt preformance.

Love your Writing Krista. Thank you for a wonderful Epi. everything about it perfect, funny, sad.. all of it is AMAZING.

[Nessa]

Great episode!
That was the grey's we all love!And seriously could George and Izzie be more sweeter and hotter together? They're so cute.And I'm so happy Meredith is on their side...I don't really like Christina this episode, but I can see she's sad that she didn't get the surgery.
I can't wait till next week
Oh and I loved the boy who got ears.Such a cutie!;)

[Mcsteamy fan]

Ellen Pompeo rocked the show tonight. what a great episode. I went from crying to laughing to crying again. I LOVED IT.

Krista, I always love your writing. thank you. And thank you for making Meredith deal with her mom (Man that was intense.). for Izzie and George to be out, Derek adn Mark scenes. and for Hann.

I am loving season 4.

[Dorothy]

Please stop the gizzie! It's a shame! And don't break MerDer it's the lonely thing to see in this show.

[Sarah]

What ever happened to good blogs? I feel like now, you guys are all just defending your plot and telling us what we already know.

[D]

Loved it so much. :D What a great episode! Meredith and Lexie together made me so happy. And the ending with George and Izzie...actually George made me happy all night for some reason. He's NOT a bad guy, it isn't black and white. And I loved Callie as usual. I also loved the little boy and just about everything that came out of Mark's mouth. Ava was great but I would love to see her back. :) Anyway! Good stuff! xxoo

[Tina (WV)]

Overall, the quality of this series continues to decline. The quick and meaningless sex, infidelity and now another troubled marriage (Bailey’s) is getting very tiresome and repetitive. This is just a continuation of the down whirl spiral of Season 3. Writers, why are you bringing down your show? You definitely have reached the SOS stage. Even the advertisers are beginning to question the storylines (see Advertising Age, “Dissecting Grey’s Anatomy”). Bringing on more characters and stretching existing storylines is not the answer. It’s sad, really. Bring Meredith and Derek back together, in a stable relationship. This series needs to heal quickly with stable relationships.

[Lia]

This episode was ok, I mean it wasn't season 3 dreary, but it is almost impossible to enjoy the show anymore with knowing that Derek is going to leave Meredith once again with his new love interest. And after watching a good episode, it was all ruined by the promo, "the more he is availible, the more I pull away."

We;ve been down all these roads of unhappiness with Mer and Der. It is annoying and forces one not to want to tune in. I see you all leaning towards their seperation, and I am telling you from talking to others and the MB, that really should not be your main concentration.

[lin]

I really liked the episode, I think it was very funny. As usual, I didn't like Gizzie (actually they suck big time), and I was kind of disappointed their affair didn't cause more reaction among the other interns. Normally, when people find out that two of their friends have have suddenly become a couple, they feel kind of disgusted. Well, I did here, anyway. I think it's going to be cool seeing Christina & Callie live together. One thing I don't understand is how the whole thing with George was finished so quickly - there wasn't even one scene between him and Callie alone, sorting things out (or talking about divorce or something). It feels unfinished and he's already romancing with Izzie. Meredith was likeable again for the first time since her ferry accident, I really enjoy watching her evolve. So the scenes with Lexie, Mark and, most of all, with the chief and her mum's ashes were fab.

What's also going to be interesting is what's going to happen with Christina & Dr. Hahn - there's obviously penty of explosive potential there ;0)

Finally, the only thing I found ridiculous was how hard Derek is trying to convince himself he's ever going to fall for someone else. Come on, the way he started turning his head for other women was pathetic, and when he tells the chief he'll have to start dating again, you really see how he must convince himself to say that. They're sooo going to end up together, MerDer. All this happens to keep things interesting for a while and keep the suspense. I just hope it won't happen only in the very last episode (like in Friends and other series) - I'd really love to see some happy couple time for once. They managed in Season 1, didn't they?

The funniest scene was the one with Derek and Mark - they're just great together.

So, all in all, compliments on a very funny episode. I truly enjoyed it more than all the others this season.

[Mallory]

Poor Mer- she is trying and all you writers are just going to kick her down again with a new love interest for Derek. And how is it that she is trying this episode, but next episode she is moving further away as he becomes availible? Again, storylines don't flow.

[Amanda]

I LOVED this episode. I watched it twice last night.
You made me laugh and you made me cry (very cliched, I know.....but very true).

Mark and Derek pranking each other was freakin' hilarious. It's a joy to watch those two becoming friends again.

Watching Alex and Ava together again was so refreshing. Their chemistry is palpable!! They are fastly becoming my new fav couple. It's time for Alex to grow a little and get a little happiness. I honestly think Ava is his soulmate. And Elizabeth Reaser is magical on screen. GENIUS!!!

Favorite scene of the night - Meredith and the Chief bidding farewell to Ellis. Very poignant and very appropriate. By the time they had placed their hands together under the running water, I had tears slowly running down my face.

Congrats on a beautiful episode and Thank You.

[Jherek]

Great episode. I really like the George/Izzie pairing and I hope the writers give it the chance it deserves. They have the potential to be something special.

I'm very excited to see Brooke Smith has become a regular. I love Hahn and can't wait to see how she fits in with the other characters. I hope to see some interaction between her and Izzie when Hahn learns the truth about the LVAD fiasco. Hopefully, after Hahn gives Izzie a little karmic retribution, she offers Izzie a chance at redemption. Personally, I'd love to see Izzie become a cardio surgeon as a way to atone for that whole mess.

The scene where Meredith and Chief Webber put Ellis's ashes down the scrub sink was beautiful.

The scene with Bailey and George towards the end was very well done. They play off each other so well, and you can tell the bond they share is very strong.

Great stuff, and congratulations on the birth of you daughter, Ms. Vernoff.

[Jenn]

I have to admit, the episode was a little slow for me tonight. I was really excited and was hoping for something good when we saw those opening MerDer scenes, but you killed it when he told her how starnge it was when she said she was trying. Ellen Pompeo did an amazing job tonight! The show lacked Derek and Meredith though, and a new love interest is not what we want to see. you say thta you are in the writer's room a lot, but we are seeing the same stuff with different characters now- how long and hard could you be working? By breaking Meredith and Derek up for good, your missing an important foundation of your show- the soul a lot of us tune in to watch!

[Sascha]

So we see some groth tonight with Mer and then we have to hear Derek needs to date and the promo did not show anything worth tuning in for next week. When are you going to see, we have been down this road of triangles, failed relationships, cheating, the couple who should be together, never is, and the constant kick down of your main character. You do realize you are a soap opera, right?

Chainsaw in a hospital- a little unrealistic wasn't it?

[Joanna]

The only thing good I saw tonight was the excellent Ellen Pompeo, Meredith is growing, and it seems like you guys are going to kick her down and set her four steps backwards next week. I don't work in television, but as being a part of the viewers that brought you success, I can tell you your show will fail fast without Meredith and Derek.

After last season, it is really hard to get into the show as I was for seasons 1 and 2. Your at this new level that each episode is being critiques, and set backs are not what I want to see. What your doing to DerMer is a setback- a major one that is going to set back your show

[Melisa]

Meredith was AWESOME tonight! Am I ever going to be happy for the girl? I mean alls I am is always heartbreaking over what she goes through. It's aggrevating and depressing that you all feel that once you have dark and twisty, you are not supposed to have any happiness. Derek's new love interest is going to bring us back to season 3, you know the season that was so drreary and inconsistant that you needed a anti-dpressant to watch. News Flas: that is not good! Consider yourself warned, but a lot of us plan not to watch after you go down that road.

[Kim]

GIZZIE is just unbelievable, unrealistic and boring to watch. I used to love Izzie and now I cannot stand to watch her on television. You are focusing too much on their relationship and way too less on Meredith and Derek. The relaistic relationship that two actors truly make one believe that it is real. You can't deny PD and EP have amazing chemistry, chemistry that you do not find on a show, yet you guys never use it!

[rina]

i so so so so love george and izzie. they were so cute. i hate cristina and callie. and since when did they became bff? cristina was like friends with george and izzie since like season 1. i also hate alex and ava. please dont bring her back anymore

[SAdie]

I hope the spoilers are wrong and that there is not a new love interest for Derek, and WTF was Meredith saying in the promo? You are losing me here, your not giving me anything different to want to tune in for!

[Beachfan]

Loved the return of Ava. Loved the Bailey/George talk.
Loved Mer helping the little boy and Mark's comment to her about not being at all like her mother.
Loved George persuading the dying man to take his daughter's heart because it is something he would have done himself given the chance.
Loved Dr. Hahn choosing Izzie over Christina.
Loved Callie and Christina in the OR.

Absolutely hated hearing Der say he had to start dating. What's up with that? Felt sorry for the chief.

Ep 12???? I guess we really have to sit back and watch what has already been done. Along with millions of others, I trust that in the end we have a great MerDer like we have been pleading for the whole time.

Congrats on your baby!!

[Jamie]

Think about why people fell in love with your show and who the show is named for! Finally we saw Meredith dealing, but come on, next week she takes steps backwards, and I am sure when Derek's love interest comes to play we'll be right back to season 3. After that we learned it wasn't getting any better in the hopes that it would, so once this season gets there, all hopes are gone and the tv will be off on Thursday night! you have all made it clear that you don't care about your fans and your word really means nothing, but think who gave you your success. As Shonda gloats that she is so wonderful when deep down we sense that she has some issues considering all of the issues she prtrays on tv, let her know she is doing something wrong, the show does not feel like it did when it was my favorite show!

[karen]

the last scene with george and izzie was just beautiful. perfect scene. it made me swoon over. awwwwww. cant wait for next week.

[Makena]

I'm not interested in seeing Meredith and Derek down the triangle road again. Why have people watch your show because of them if you are going to make it impossible to exist? Last night, I did not feel Derek was true to his character. After last week and everything he said to her, he does not say anything after she says she is trying? Just how strange it was that she brought the ashes to work? Really, that's how somebody would react to the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with is showing she is trying to be ready? Where did the writers go from seasons 1 and 2? We just keep adding new characters to make the storylines different, but never change the storylines, just the characters involved. Know as soon as he dates somebody else, I am gone. I hate soap operas, and you have officially become one.

[actrombone]

Thanks for a great episode, I think this was my favorite of the season so far. Meredith really did some warp-speed 'growing' here, which I really found refreshing. Like many, I found it very frustrating that Derek was, 1) distant and 2) uninvolved in Meredith's healing process and 3) not featured in this episode much at all, except to mention to the chief that he is needs to start dating, which makes no sense in the context of Meredith putting in a full-out effort to be ready to date. It really made me angry at first, actually. First off, Patrick Dempsey is a great actor and deserves more airtime. I hope episodes coming up will give him more of a story than choice moments where he puts in a one-liner chastising meredith or the other residents. Secondly, it would have added a nice dynamic to the show to see Derek's reaction to Meredith's actions. Third, and not last, I have been in relationships that are missing those crucial things: the hand-holding in public, the good night kisses, the actual committment from the other person. And, like Derek, despite the pain it caused me, I was forced to heal myself from that relationship by moving on. Now I have no doubts, based on this episodes snippets, that Derek will have no problem finding a date with a beautiful woman. It is how he deals with the fact that that woman is not meredith, especially in light of the fact that somewhere along the line (I hope) Meredith will have reached a point where she can welcome Derek into her life once more. I think the writers are setting us up for an interesting glimpse into the complicated relationship dynamics of two people who we, as audience, see are perfect for each other. I still believe that whatever happens, it will still be good and we just need to give you hardworking writers (and thanks for everything!) a little space to do your magic. Happy Halloween!

[Nikki]

This by far is my favorite episode this season! Excellent job!!!

Ok...Here is my rant...Tonight we saw the amazing potential of the person/surgeon that Meredith can be. In light of all that fabulous-ness I say SCREW derek! All he ever does is break Meredith...he is constantly leaving her...this marks the third time he is doing this. Has he ever taken any responsibilty for his part in making her the messed up person she is? All he shows her is that people say they love you and then leave...he shows her that if you let people in they burn you. How dare he semi-propose and then start dating again? I just don't see that he loves her.

Lets get Meredith a real man who can stick around. A man who says he loves her and no matter how hard it gets...stays. I would love to see a Meredith/Thatcher reunion that goes bad and Derek is there but instead she runs to the new guy and lets him take care of her..b/c in that moment he will be everything that Derek is not and he (derek) knows it.

[Joyce]

I absolutely LOVED this episode. It was so amazing.

I love the way Mer is starting to work on herself. Don't let this be too late. Don't like Derek dating, he shouldn't.

And Callie and Cristina! And Derek and Mark! Sooo amazing. And George and Izzie, it felt right now. Because of all the fuss I kinda forgot that there is serious love going on here. Hahn as head of cardiothoraxicsurgery? Brilliant!
But the chief and Meredith in the end? Heartbreakingly beautiful!

CAN'T wait for next week!

[rachel]

I found the scene with Meredith and Richard and the ashes painfully beautiful. Lump in your throat, hard to swallows kind of beautiful.

[Mactilda]

The more George becomes "george" again the less I see the Gizziething working out. He's not a bad guy (even though I HATE what he did) but that's the thing. He WILL remeber why he loved Callie and Izzie will dissapoint him as she has dissapointed everyone else. ( bet you Denny is turning himself over in his grave remembering how irritated Iz was with Callie...)

Callie.... thank god she laughed.... she's going to be fine... the worst is over... she rocks!

OK, great eppi...EXCEPT YOU WRITERS LIED TO US ONCE AGAIN!