bethenny ever after

by Lauren Bradshaw

There's no doubt that Bethenny Frankel has become a star in her own right since doing The Real Housewives of New York. I can't say I'm surprised; her dynamic personality and blunt, tell-it-like-it-is mouth is the perfect recipe for reality TV. I'm hooked on her latest series Bethenny Ever After (which airs again tonight!), but it has me thinking about the other housewives who could make a successful go of it on their own.

I'd love to see Lisa Vanderpump from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills get her own show (with dog Giggy in tow, of course), but Kyle Richards would also be a worthy spin-off star (she's kind of the Bethenny of Beverly Hills anyhow). Teresa Guidice of The Real Housewives of New Jersey has already been rumored for a possible series (her fiery temper could fuel some juicy episodes!) and as much as it pains me to say it, I think it's only a matter of time before we see a series with The Real Housewives of Orange County's Gretchen Rossi and boyfriend Slade Smiley. Which housewife do you think should step into the spotlight solo?

Photo courtesy of Bravo

by Rebecca M Gruber

Necessity is indeed the mother of invention. On last night's episode of Bethenny Ever After the new mama took a break from her meal to change baby Bryn's diaper in a restaurant's tiny restroom. With no changing table available, she covered the floor with her changing pad and went to work, only to wonder how she was supposed to use the bathroom while holding her tot.

The scene was eerily reminiscent of my first meal out with my lil one. I confidently strode into the restroom with my baby and diaper bag in tow, only to find the requisite pull-down table missing. I balked at putting my infant on the dirty floor (even if it was covered) and tried to come up with a different method. I managed to balance my son and his changing pad on my lap while sitting on the toilet, only to wonder how I was supposed to then use the facility myself. Let's just say it took a lot of coordination! Now, I'm sure to check out the Sit or Squat app before entering a restaurant with my kids. What was your toughest diaper change environment?

Photo courtesy of: Bravo TV

by Rebecca M Gruber

When is enough, enough? On the season premiere of Bethenny Ever After, the reality star spends a weekend trying to establish boundaries with her in-laws. The new grandparents, who live two hours away from baby Brynn's New York City home, express their desire to see their granddaughter every week, as well as holidays and special occasions. After several discussions on the matter, Bethenny, in her trademark way, reminds them that there are some things the family must celebrate and experience on their own. There's no denying the joy that babies bring to grandparents' lives, but some parents find that enthusiasm suffocating. Have you had to set limits with your tot's grandparents?