Ten Lessons I Learned from the TV Housewives Sept. 2020

As another season of The Real Housewives of New York (on the Bravo channel) comes to an end, I contemplated my relationship to this successful reality TV show franchise.  What have I learned from watching two of these shows (The Real Housewives of New York and New Jersey) for all of these years?

Whenever I watch, I usually send text messages back and forth, with my friend, Linda. We discuss the outfits, the haircuts and which housewife has had the most to drink (it is not always an easy choice).  Since we both enjoy watching this show, Linda and I have stayed more connected during the quarantine as a result. Sometimes one of us may fall asleep, leaving the other person awaiting a text response that never appears until the next morning. 

I chose to develop my list of ten things by only focusing on the positive side of the show. After all, the housewives are not angels or role models to be emulated, but the show does provide an endless source of discussion for the office (if we are ever allowed to go into our office or mingle with friends again). 

Here are my 10 lessons:

• 1.) Travel is Enjoyable – But, don’t fight over who gets the best bedroom upon arrival at the resort. 
• 2.) Try New Things – Ride the camel! Make a record! Sell a toaster!
• 3.) Wear Your Jewlery or Sparkly Outfits – There is always another party or event to dress up for. 
• 4.) Friends Are Everything – Friends who fight usually kiss and make up (eventually). 
• 5.) Everyone Needs a Guilty Pleasure – An example is watching these types of reality TV shows. 
• 6.) Friendships Change – A friendship that fizzles out may be rekindled years later. 
• 7.) Express your Emotions – Flip a table! Not really, but discuss how you are feeling and try to iron out your differences (without starting a catfight). 
• 8.) Celebrate your Achievements – Hire shirtless male servers whenever you are planning your next party. 
• 9.) Be Charitable – Support your friend’s good deeds and fundraisers. 
• 10). Everyone Deserves a Happy Ending – Choose the best path for yourself and benefit from the girl power you receive along the way from your BFFs. 

Q. Do you watch the Housewives? What have they taught you?