'Real Housewives of Orange County': Making ends meet

The original Housewives are back, and much has changed for the busty ladies of Coto de Caza.  Last week's season premiere (still can't believe that this is the fifth season!) showed us that Tamra and Simon are possibly going broke. Jeana ... well, she's closer than they are. Lynne is trying to keep her family afloat with those gaudy cuff contraptions. Gretchen ... well, she spends her days in her garage with her new manfriend, Slade. And Vicki, our favorite Wahoo! gal, is still living the life of luxury.

But when it comes to the drama, not much has changed.

At a staged dinner party, er, showcase of Lynne's cuff line, Tamra and Gretchen took the opportunity to unleash their claws. About what? Bad reputations and a vibrator with a cord? Slightly reminiscent of Alex from the "Real Housewives of New York," right?  Their fighting, though entertaining to watch (especially as Jeana tries to ease the tension by asking folks to pass the macaroni), is getting a bit tired. For it to garner a "to be continued" when, really, there wasn't much to "continue" was pushing it. 

Gretchen dealt with the stress from that night by having a tanning party the next day -- the only logical solution. I don't know what was a more awkward moment: when Lynne's 16-year-old daughter, Alexa, asked if she could drink a beer (even Gretchen found that weird) or when Slade, with only a sock hiding his unmentionable, hammed it up for the cameras as he got coated with tanning solution. Will someone please click the stopwatch and end his 15 minutes of fame? 

But the economic bust continued its guest-starring role in this week's episode.

Tamra told Vicki over lunch that Simon is getting his income solely from selling tequila. They pay $2,000 a month in property taxes alone on their home and are thinking of moving. Meanwhile, with the Orange County real estate market drying up, so has Jeana's lavish lifestyle. She's sold watches, cars and some art -- anything to make ends meet.  And she and daughter Kara, who now waits tables to pay for her apartment, have mostly ditched the high-end department stores for H&M discount shopping sessions. Total damage done in the shopping fete seen in this week's episode? Just under $200. A sizable difference than what we saw from Kim of the "Real Housewives of Atlanta" on her shopping sprees. How things have changed for the ladies. Gretchen even had a garage sale! Vicki, who seems to be the only one not affected greatly by the bad economy, took her mother and daughter to Italy, spending over $500 a night on their hotel room. And, I guess, Lynne isn't doing too shabby, given that she's considering getting herself a face lift and her daughter a nose job (getting into the issues with that requires a whole other blog post).

But there's a new housewife in the mix. Jeana is ditching the clan (as previews for next week's episode suggest) and a new blond, Alexis, will attempt to mingle with the brood. Tamra and Simon had dinner with Alexis and her husband, Jim. A very awkward dinner. The tension between Tamra and her ill-tempered hubby was more apparent than ever before. While Alexis and Jim were lovey-dovey (what is with her making him a plate of food? He has hands.), Tamra and Simon were bickering about nonsense. Is anyone else bothered that Simon seems to think Tamra should "obey" him? He married a woman, not a dog. He and Slade need a serious reality check. 

What are your thoughts on the return of the O.C. ladies? Will it be the same without Jeana? What do you think about Lynne considering letting her teen daughter get a nose job?

-- Yvonne Villarreal

Photo: Gretchen Rossi Credit: Bravo

Comments

[DEBORAH D]

i LOV jENNA, she my girl she have class, n vick could have help jenna family out if it was vick asking jenna for the money she would have done it bestfriends are for ever i though but not with her,tamra is just a JEALOUS of Gretchen, she needs to get over it she will never look that GOOD IN HER LIFE,GRETCHEN keep doing u have fun u are a good looking women keep ur stuff going... and vick lose some weight u are BIGGGGGGG, n stop trying to be better then the rest of the group all of yall are the same human, take a load off n be good friend u really show how ugly u can be ...n lynne u need help with ur children, they r going to whip ur ass one day u let them walk all over u.

[Roy]

What am I missing about Lynne's cuffs? Who in their right mind would buy a cuff? Is that supposed to pay for her worthless daughter's nosejob?

[Heather]

From someone who lives in SoCal, I have to say that it has been interesting to watch the two "camps" of people work thru today's economy. There were those who would spend, spend, spend (making you ask..."Wow, how do they make their money?"). The real question should have been, "Wow, how many credit cards do you have with high balances." The other camp lived well, but spent modestly on a day to day basis. The show is a good illustration of today's current climate. Camp #1 - they're getting foreclosed on. Camp #2 - they are continuing to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Don't get me wrong, Vicki is a terrible human being and certainly the villian of the show, but you never saw her getting cosmetic surgery or going on ridiculous shopping sprees. She lives very, very comfortably, but spends her money judicially (to the point that she would not even help a long-term and close friend-in-need in one of her darker hours). Shame on you Vicki. Have some heart. What a wench! And speaking of terrible people, I have never seen a more insecure person in my life than Tamra. She has some crazy, deep-rooted issues for her to care THAT much about what Gretchen is doing in her own time. She's jealous and hateful. She and Vicki belong together (contributing to the adage that misery certainly loves company). Lynn is a doormat. She's spacey and just rolls over like a beaten dog. Sad! All of the sudden she's best friends with Tamra after all the snippy little jabs that Tamra took at her last season during her little commentaries. Really??? Where's your spine? Where's your self esteme? I really like Gretchen (poor social choices aside), but Slade is weird. It's almost like he wants to be one of the "housewives" on the show, so he keeps finding a way back in. I feel so sorry for Jeana. She took a double hit (husband moved out and real estate in CA tanked). She's holding her own and doing what she has to do, which is commendable. We will miss you, Jeana!

[Summer]

I would hate to have Vicky as my mother!! she is annoying and evil. She talks about other kids look at hers!!! Her kids have major problems (especially her son) and Tamara is jealous, she likes to talk about what is proper. How about her with her oldest son. He is no angel, and nothing to brag about. What does Tamara do all day.... she doesn't even clean her own house...da....

[Marianne]

I am very sad to see Jeanna leave the series. I was impressed by her gentle manner and refusing to publicly put down her neighbors. It is unfortunate that her behavior is not appreciated. Actually, I don't have much desire to watch the others. Who needs the negativity of Tamra and Vicky? Who needs to hear that stupid 'woohoo' of Vicky's. I feel sorry for Gretchen. She's young and as many of us humans, she's made some mistakes which Tamra and Vicky will never let her forget. It's too bad that no one throws Vicky's boobs wanting to come out and play and her numerous shows of disrespect of her husband in her face continuously. I can surely understand why her two children don't like spending time with her! Tamra was apparently forgiven for encouraging Gretchen to drink too much and watching her son follow Gretchen around like a dog after a bitch in heat, which was one of the most disgusting things I've seen on reality tv!!
Yep, I think I just talked myself in not bothering to watch another series of those women in Orange County.

[pammie6]

I love Tamara coming down from her high horse and facing what everyone in the US is facing from the economy. And I'm sure she married Simon for his high income. She didn't mind the 40th bash and high end gifts. Gretchen wasn't married to Jeff, whatever their relationship was she made him happy in his last year. Whatever he willed her it was because he wanted to. I've know married couples who were together for 40plus years and were in relationships or remarried 3mos later. Vickie what a disgrace in Italy. Her mother is an old lady who is rude and not grateful for the trip and to be with her daughter and grand-daughter. Vickie bitched about the little hotels,didn't she research her trip? Having a meal and shocked that they didn't speak English or have California wine!!! She should just have gone to Napa, drank all the local wine and stayed at a spa and eat at the outstanding restaurants in that area. Jeana, well she should have saved some money when she was making it big or made a better deal in her breakup. Anyway I think it's going to be boring, I'm sick of the same fight with Tamara and Gretchen, get over it the guy is dead now. And Slade, what a manwhore!!!

[Katie B.]

I have never in the history of reality TV felt pocessed to post a comment about a show untill this (barely started season) of the Real Housewives of Orange County. Firt of all there is nothing REAL about any of them. Superficiality, Insincerity, Jealousy, Greed..........these are some of their most redeeming qualities. I can't ever stomache to watch a 40+ year old woman be so publicly comsumed with jealousy towards a woman 20 years younger then her that her entire existance becomes about bringing her down. Tamara, Really- What is wrong with you. You and that young girl (however poor her decisions) are not playing in the same ball park. No amount of surgery or botox will change that. Yes, there is a hotter younger housewife. Face it. Vicky, Are you serious? You must be nothing but a constant humliation and embarassment to your family. You must sleep soundly at night, since it seem this is your only desired accomolishment. The only one with any spark of decency has been shoved out of the mix now that her cashflow is down. God Bless You Families. The fact that you are parents is truly frightening.

[Debbie]

I realize this is a fake reality show but what I want to know is how can you show a so-called tanning party, idiot boy gets naked with a sock covering what little he has and there are underaged kids there. That was not cool at all. What was worse, the mother does nothing about it. Nice parenting.

[kitty]

Except for Jeana - these women are pathetic. Vicki.... OMG the scene in Italy - so embarrassing. Like she just climbed out from under a rock... a river rock? Most Americans with even the slightest bit of elan can have a dinner in Italy using a level of sophistication that an adult of her age has usually attained by her age. Her use of abbreviations like Cabs, Pinot ?
- Europeans don't use expressions like the nouveau riche barflies of her ilk do. She just turns my stomach.
Jeana is so lucky to be rid of her. EEEK ! Jeana is the only one with any
decency or level of self respect - the rest of them are like the other writer said - just trashy - and the HILARIOUS part is they have no clue!! Slade -
are they kidding ?????????? What a douche.

[Rose]

Jeanna is the only one who is "real". The rest are a bunch of boring, rude, conceited(why ???) insecure , fake little girls. I guess Vickie likes being portrayed as a person with no integrity, and who wants to be only Tamra's BFF---how high-schoolie. Tamra likes being portrayed as an insecure mean spirited person who thinks she is better than she is, Lynn likes being protrayed as a flake with no common sense at all, and Gretchen likes to be portrayed as a gal with no morals. Go figure them all---I can't. Producers--pay Jeanna what she needs and wants to stay on the show before it is too late. Also, the new one looks like her brain is in her boobs also, like the rest of them.

[Sejewels]

Jeanna is my favorite. I liked and respected her. She is leaving with dignity to focus on the things she needs to take care of. The other ladies represent the greed and selfishness that has taken our country down. Why is it they can walk away from huge mortgage and rent debts but yet the working class is being crucified by banks and credit bureaus? Honestly I was an avid fan but the only ones I actually like are Gretchen and Slade who make each other laugh all the time. Bravo for laughter instead of anger and pettiness.

[kitkat]

What is wrong with making your husband a plate of food? Are you married? Do you love him? Weird comment.

[sylvia]

Sad to see Jeana go, she was the nicest and the least fake.All the others are two face back stabbers. Vickie is a snobby controlling NAG, she even thinks she's better than Don, what a great husband to put up with that fat, horse face pig.
Slade should not be on the show at all, he's NASTY!!!! I like Grechen but she's not even a housewife, does she even work? Lyns duaghters are bratty and UGLY!!! Tamra needs some help with her hair. What ever happened to Vickie's secretary from last season? did she get tired of Vickie's nastinest too? Bravo may need to negotiate a better contract to bring Jeana back( money talks), I'm not watching after Jeana leaves.

[sue karis]

vicki is a hot mess, hair, make up, style, size...needs to loose at least 40...so her holier than now attitude needs to go....she never has anything nice to say about anyone..and tamara..it time to shut up...sweep your own door step and check your man..hes a jerk and you need a job. gretchen...really slade....you girls need to stop passing around left overs.....hes a joke and need to go to work and stop living off women..maybe he does work..but gretchen do you work..jeana good luck glad you got rid of your husband you are the only one i like watching after you got rid of your man...lynn you are an idiot period..you dont even belong on the show anymore than i do. the cuffs are just plain ugly and wont pay your bills and your girls are living in a fantasy thanks to you...alexa stay away

[JB]

No one who continually claims to being "classy" is really a classy individual. ALL of these women are embarassing. Some less than others. Gretchen makes stupid mistakes but at least she has a heart. As well as Jeanna. Tamra and Vicki and Lynne are all stupid, uppity cats who deserve to be downgraded to the poor house for their irresponsible behaviour and their lack of humanity or good manners. News flash: their ARE people who WORK HARD for a living and are hungry and can't afford the basics. Wake up B*tches! No one feels sorry for someone who needs to sell off their BMWs or art but still buy $100 lunches. Boo hoo!

-Jess

[SMiller]

I tuned in for the first time since before Gretchen's Jeff died. Nothing has changed much: Laurie used to be the biggest skank, now Tamra has taken her place. If Vicki doesn't stop her shreaking and backbiting, I'd say she should get some therapy. Gretchen is young and beautiful and Tamra's nose is out of joint. Why, I really don't know inasmuch as she is years and years older than Gretchen and is no longer "the hottie" she proclaimed herself to be a few years back. Jeanna is quite real and unpretensious. What I love the best is Vicki and Tamra being so sanctimonious when both need to "up" their necklines and lower their hems. Lynn comes across as if she hasn't a brain in her head.
Where do they come up with these no-account females? Not entertaining. It was a slow day today, Sunday, 11/15/09.

[Erica]

Gretchen I think she is the best!!! I love her name and her spicy spunky personality. I think you spend a good part of your life searching for who you are. Trial by error. It makes you stronger and it makes you who you are!!! Being “Good” is boring. I think out of anyone she should know you only get one ride around the marry-go-round called life and live each day, as if it’s your last!!!! Coming from someone who also lost someone near and dear. Only the WEEK will judge!!! Love HER!!!

And I agree Tamara is White Trash…… What is up with her FAKE crying. You are so see through she is silicone WOOPS

[wallie]

I miss Laurie she was the only normal housewife. Vicki just got bitchy, Jeanna is ok I think she did a great job raising Kara & the younger son. But Tamara!!! OMG what a nosey bitch!!! why can't she just leave Gretchen alone?? Gretchen is a big girl & whatever choices she makes are her's. Gretchen seems like a nice lady who has made some bad choices & knows it. Tamara is just jealous

[Franny]

I LOVE the shorts that Gretchen is wearing during her tanning party. Does anyone know what brand they are?

[KH]

I used to find this show entertaining, but it has quickly gone downhill. Now it is just shrill, and desperate and sad, and I've decided I can't watch it anymore. Obviously, from the start, these people were all starved for attention, but it is past the point of desperation now. Really, Slade Slimey naked with sock on his "little head?" Lynne, topless with Gretchen protecting her "ahem" modesty? Jeana was the only sympathetic one on there. Tamra is shrill, judgmental, and has no redeeming qualities that I can see. How can they can no equity in the house?! She was a realtor for God's sake! Maybe her husband shouldn't have been buying her rolexes and $40,000 tennis bracelets! Sorry, no sympathy for her. And to hear Vicki go on about how she thought she'd get better service and attention because she's blond and cute?! She's about 30 years past cute, and her personality is grating at best. And the new gal? Please. SO Christian, and a 50's housewife to boot. And I don't think those are God-given attributes on her chest. Time to cancel this show.