Even When the Cameras Are Off

The decision to film a TV reality show has brought a lot of fun to our lives, as well as a lot of criticism by viewers, friends, and family members. I want to stress that in no way are any of us are deliberately trying to demean people or their culture. We all have said things in the past that we wished we had not. We wish they could be taken back. However, because we are opening our lives to the public, this is the consequence of filming a reality TV show. This was not something myself, my family or my other cast members had ever anticipated.

All in all, it's been a great experience and it has caused us all to be a little more cautious on what we say and do. Even when the cameras are off.

One of the nicest parts though, has been the opportunity to meet new people. I just met Tammy when the show started filming. I have not had the opportunity to spend much time with her, but through the last few months, we have been able to get to know each other more. I actually love Tammy, and think she is a lot like me. We somehow have connected very well and are "survivors."

This episode shows me running around in circles after the puppy. I've always loved having pets. They provide you with unconditional love. When I am down, or having a bad day, all I have to do is a get a ball with a squeaky sound and throw it around to Lucy. She will play and play and play for hours and if she could talk, I know she'd say "thank you mom, I love playing with you!" I say in this episode that the kids "don't have a clue." What I mean by that is: I think a lot of kids that are in college don't realize that once they are on their own, paying their own bills and providing for a family is difficult — no matter how much money you make.

It will take being on their own financially to understand this. I am confident that Mike and Briana will be OK. I'm a Mom. I'm always going to worry about them.