Gretchen, I've always been a fan. I love your zest for life, the fact that you don't come off as phony and that you are who you are. That being said this season you just seem so different. More defensive and I can't blame you a bit. As for Slade if you love him then stand by him, if he's trying to get back on his feet and working toward a goal then that's great. My husband of 15 yr. was laid off of a very good job for a year and a half and it never crossed my mine to walk away. We just worked thur it together and now he's gotten a new and better job. God blesses those who deserve it. You do just hang in there!

Hey, Gretchen, you and Jeana are my favorite OC housewives! I wish she was back. Anyhoo, I think what has everyone riled up is that you said Vicki went to the hospital on purpose, because it was Alexis' party. I can see how you'd think that because Vicki's known to do that, ignore someone because she didn't like them. And as long as it was Vicki, that was ok. Your explanation on Watch What Happens was enough for me, but I love you anyway. I think you've been trashed and ridiculed and wronged by both Tamra and Vicki since you appeared on the show, so I can understand how you felt it was a slight and since she had ongoing problems in that area, it did appear that she chose to go at that time, so I understand.

I applaud your attempts to show Tamra how her comments were wrong, to tell both Tamra and Vicki to stop talking about your relationship and about Slade, as it's none of their business, and to let you be. But they won't listen and they keep talking. It's sad on their part. But you're stronger than that. The love you showed for Jeff and his children was precious and I think you for letting the viewers see that relationship. I wish it hadn't had to end, and I hope Jeff's children are well.

As to Slade, you be strong in your relationship and do what you feel's right for you. The audacity of the women on the show who voice an opinion is beyond rude and ill-mannered, especially since they act so entitled and as if anyone wants to know their opinion. You see that both of those ladies are in serious relationship trouble so that says more than they ever could.

Be strong, Gretchen and continue to be the lady you are. It's hard to know that Slade's son is ill and my family are praying for you all. It's hard enough to go through these emotional ups and downs without having someone publicly try to humiliate you as well. But you have a loving family and your parents seem terrific. I'd be great to see more of them on the show and I admire their longevity.

Take care.

Gretchen you are the only one worth anything on thisnshow. Try to stay away from the rest of the for lack of a better word, whoes. Unless it's to annoy them. Give the all a run for their husband's money. You're OK Gretchen, so far.

I don't think that Gretchen lost any fans and if she did, then they were not her fans to begin with. All of these housewives need to hang their head low and then they rise up again the following week. Remember who went to visit Vickie in the hospital. Vickie seemed to have wanted so much of the show on her this year. Vickie was the loudest housewife (except for NENE) from the get go and still is. She dishes but cannot take it. Last season she was all about renewing her vows and how great the passion was with her and Donn and then she tells Tamra that nothing has been going on for two years , REALLY, what is the truth here. Love watching the show and they all have issues, actually maybe we do for watching, lol. But seriously, it is REALITY and they get paid for it.

Hey,

Where have you been for the past few eeks....miss your blog...miss you

Love your spirit, keep it going!!!!!

Gretchen, You are my favorite housewife. Until you came on the show I found this series boring and I didn't bother to keep up with it. Until you came on the show, I never would have thought to read or comment upon the blogs.

That said, I agree with the last five or six comments posted. You are a sparkling young woman, and I admire you for standing up for yourself, but you do need to work out your resentment towards Tamra and Vicki privately and not on screen, because its making you look bad. Most people don't remember or know or care what happened two years ago. Its in your best interest to apologize, because your comments about Vicki were erroneous and because it ultimately reflects poorly upon no one but you.

Its clear that the hurt Tamra caused you has made you bitter, and I don't blame you for feeling the way you do, not one bit. But stooping to her level isn't working for you. If I were you I would just be polite, keep my distance, and continue to succeed doing something you love and that you do very well. Let your smile shine, your eyes sparkle, and have fun! Don't let those others take you down!

Gretchen you hang in there Tamra needed to see what she has done to others really hurts. What goes around comes around and too bad for her she gets such pleasure in seeing people hurt I just don't understand, but when she is hurt it is the end of the world. I was so proud of you for saying what you said to her.

Gretchen I don't know what happened to you this season but there is definately a need for self reflection. You are wise to put your plans on hold for marrying Slade and I'm glad that your business is taking off but your actions this season have completely thrown me off. I thought your attitude towards Vicki was awful. You and Alexis are the ones that turned into the mean girls this season.

The one hw I wanted to hear from this week! I'm glad that you didn't do the two handed in the air slap w/Tamra. I'm glad you used it to express to Tamra, in a way even Tamra should be able to understand, how it made you feel. I'm happy that you & Slade are finding your bliss. I don't get all the crap about Slade. I haven't watched other years. I've caught some episodes but not the whole year & never watched it as it aired like I did this season. But, I'm glad that you followed your heart. Good luck.

Great comparison you made to Tamra. Great that you stood up.

Gretchen,

Two wrongs do not make a right. Just like everyone is saying, you are a very positive, fun-loving girl and I don't think it is in your nature to say mean and hurtful things about or to people. Everyone has to stick up for themselves when confronted, but don't let others and their insecurities suck you in and change your nature. Be strong and stay true to yourself. Let the public see things the way that they see them, because we will be able to see through the bull crap. You don't have to say or do anything to point things out and only make you more miserable. People aren't stupid. I really like everyone's different personalities on the show, but don't change because I can tell you are not good at being a mean-girl. It comes off as awkwardly aggressive.

Go Gretchen! I LOVED how you pointed out KINDLY
how Tamra dissed you to the media.
Loved it!! You were sweet about it but truthful..
NICE!!

Gretchen-
You're such a beautiful woman but sadly, the only time I was actually upset was Vicki being so sick. I actually went through the same symptoms and problems and landed myself in the hospital for a week, over Christmas. It was caused by 'too much on my plate' and not taking care of myself or the problems. Stress can take over and cause a lot of health issues, just like Vicki's. Unfortunately Vicki went through A LOT over this year, without anyone knowing, not even Tamra. She kept a lot bottled up, and her internal bleeding was the end result, which is very painful and not fun at all. I'm not going to sit here and be harsh, because we all make mistakes. I do hope and agree w/others though, that somehow this be mended. People can be cruel and that is not a characteristic of yours. Stay the sweet and beautiful person that you are and I look forward to seeing you on the next season! God Bless!

Hey Girl,
Everyone says things they don't really mean. I know you would never wish any harm on Vicki. Don't listen to all the negative comments. You said you were sorry and it's done.

Just looking forward to your blogs :)

Dear Gretchen:

Did you ever find a place for the painting? I have a fiance who is a painter and I have the same problem. I thought it was too cute to see the painting in the bathroom. I can imagine how big it seems when you're that close up to it? LLOLOLOLO

Hope you enjoyed San Antonio! Y'all should do a real housewives down here ;)

Love you Gretch! Did not know you went to Baylor! Texas rocks!

Gretchen,
I am so glad that you finally stood up for yourself this season! I have watched every season and in the past Vicki and Tamra have played the role of "mean girls" and judged everyone else. Well, it was nice to see them get a taste of their own medicine this season. I can;t say that I would have reacted the same way in every situation, but everyone deals with things differently. I have NO sympathy for Tamra or Vicki where their marriages, or now divorces, are concerned. I think that Vicki should review the footage and listen to how many times she uttered those famous words, "go to work." I have great respect for anyone that can provide for their family, however, there is a fine line that we walk when it comes to dividing our time. Judging from the footage, Donn was ignored and seemed to be dismissed by Vicki. It was difficult to watch Vicki and Donn together. I almost fell out of my chair when she didn't know his age. I'm sure if you asked her the STATS on a real estate listing she could rattle it off like an auctioneer. I think it comes down to priorities. I don't think the failed marriage was at all a surprise to Vicki. After all, she said that she had everything she wanted and she worked for all of it, I guess that included the divirce! As for Tamra, not going to waste much time on her. She assumes that everyone will be fine with her ill behavior and comments, but has the most ridiculous reactions when someone finally stands up and says something that isn't to her liking. I think you are being very wise to question you future with Slade. I don't mean that to be a jab at Slade either. I think it is a responsible decision to make sure you are looking out for yourself and considering all the issues at hand before getting married. Many divorces could be avoided if others would be so responsible. I wish you luck with your make-up and handbags!

Gretchen, the reason people like you the most is because of your ability to stay above the drama and act like a lady. I can't imagine how hard it must be to not get sucked into the drama especially when they're acting like rabid, insecure, spiteful hootchie-mamas. What a complete drag they all are, but don't worry, the viewers know the truth about them!
You need to concentrate more on NOT dropping down to their level. I can see the stress and strain their shenanigans have caused you in your expressions and body language, and I know you must feel like you are alone in this fight - constantly having them attack and try to smear you, but do your very best to stay above it.
And be careful with the marriage thing...Just don't rush into anything, especially with anyone who likes the cameras as much as Slade.

Gretchen, you're probably the best housewife on this show. A lot of people are saying it was mean to say something like that about Vicki being in the hospital, and it is. But honestly, her and Tamra did the same thing to you. It's called karma, people! A little side note: I love your hair!

Gretchen, I really like you. I want to see you happy (uh-oh, you're thinking, and you're right). I married an attractive older man who was on his way down in the world. I didn't know that at the time; I thought he was on his way back up. Anything can happen, but in general it's not a good idea to look at a man over thirty for his potential. The conversation you had with Slade at the poolside was a brave one. His responses worried me; the look on his face worried me. Since you're younger than him and don't have your children yet, he should be looking out for you if he really loves you, not being defensive and talking about everyone having baggage. You're not everyone, and this is your one and only life.

Gretchen you are a team player and I like your attitude! Don't get caught up in the Vicki and Tamra drama you see how karma came and bit them in their old beat down blonde tushes! So just keep your head up Tamra got all those children but different dads it seems that she has enough on her plate to be worried about Slade and his child. I watch the show alot and this season we saw all of the women with their children except for her! Are they divided up with their dads and it was hard to get them together at the same time? Or she sent them off to will her next big break in (EDDIE)?

Gretchen.. like you I am Texan... and you are my favorite housewife. I wanted to share something my mother always told me. We cant help who we fall in love with its just happens. Slade is a great guy regardless of his situation. Stay strong and be patient. xoxoxox

I have to be honest...I thought you were a ditz your first season. I did a 180...you are very smart, warm and funny as hell. I rarely laugh at the little side interviews but you always make me laugh. I was a little shocked about your remarks with respect to Vicki and the hospital, however, I get it. Alot of things were said and done and it was like the boy who cried wolf. But I think deep down you know that it was wrong. I have about 13 years on you...but you remind me of me. Keep on doing what your doing and best of luck to you!!!

All I want to say is GRETCHEN, girl you got it together!!!

Gretchen - you are one of the kindest ppl on any of the Housewives. Don't stop being yourself. Don't get dirty just because someone else is dirty & you feel like you have to defend yourself or steep to their level. That's what they are hoping for so they can say "see, we told you so..." Trust me – they aren’t worth it. Stay true to yourself. We love you. We know & see how they have treated you. You don't have to defend yourself to your real fans. That is the beauty of being who you are. I'm watching reruns today & just watched the episode where Slade's mom visits. What a great mom he has. I'm also glad you had the opportunity to address Slade's child support. I didn't think he was a dead beat dad like he is being portrayed. I know he is a good, kind person. I really believe you two were meant to be together so please don't be so hard on him. He will be a great father to your babies.

Gretchen,
I have been a fan of yours and a supporter from the start. I think you are amazing, funny and very talented. I want to say this in the best way possible, I know you get a lot of negative attention about your relationship...but for some reason(except Jeff) you seem to go after men who are not worthy of you. I hate seeing you with Slade, I feel like if he loved you he would be out busting his ass and not mooching off you. You have been strong and defended him, but you shouldn't have to. Money is not more important than love, but ambition and wanting to take care of your family is. I truely hope you will leave him and find a man worthy of your love. One who doesn't embarass and need defending. Good Luck :-)

hi Gretchen, I think you should marry Slade. You two are exactly alike. Exactly.

Wow. Wow. I CAN'T BELIEVE how rude and disgusting you "ladies" were regarding Vicki. Seriously?? How does someone end up in surgery ON PURPOSE at a CERTAIN time just to mess with someone's plans??? You all need a reality check, scary and sad. Pathetic really. I will NEVER want to go near any of your products after this.

Gretchen I just love everything about you! You are such a fun loving and honest person! Tamra and Vicki have been SOOOOO mean to you in the past so I can totally understand why you said what you said at Alexis' party about Vicki! I didn't believe it either! Keep being yourself and YOU and Alexis are my favorite Housewifes!!!!! Love ya both!!!!

Honeslty, I did not feel warmth towards you from the start, a little to over confident of your self. But, over the past couple of seasons i have become to like you, You truly are a beautiful women funny and love your babies.
However, you must be a little insecure if you are still seeing Slade, this was a rebound relationship. You can and will do better it only takes time, please,please let him go. You deserve a man who is willing to work together as team for both to work and make income. Then when you do have children you will be able to stay home and take care of the future children you want.. You stay with Slade and have children you will be the home going to work and he will stay home.. He has no ambition to work. Just my observation thru realilt tv.

Gretchen,
Hey just wanted to let you know that I think your amazing and that spade is a great guy and go with your heart. I think you will be the happiest girl ever if y'all were to get married.
Also, I had a little something to say to "ALEXIS" I am a 22 yr old gay male and love ky life and did not choose to be this way. I think it was very wrong of her to say what she did about the Gay/Lesbian community was wrong. She needs to realize that alot of us watch bravo and enjoy the show. I am from Texas and live in Houston and have to say that my favorite BBQ as well is Texas pride BBQ. Love ya & God Bless! Be sure to share this with ALEXIS, she didn't choose to be "straight"! Muah XOXO

Gretchen! First of all you are amazing and super sweet. I can tell that you have a great heart and are genuine and kind. Second, you are so fit!!! I am wanting so badly to get in shape and want to know what you are doing to stay healthy! Write a fitness book please! Or just give one of your biggest fans (me) some tips!

I love you Gretchen!

I can't say I'm not shocked you haven't updated your blog from your comments on last weeks episode about Vicki being sick. I think you lost a lot of fans by not apologizing.

gretchen, gretchen, gretchen,
I adore you on the show, but I have watched your comments about vicki "faking" it about being in the hospital during the fashion show and I was very disappointed in your behavior. And of course you choose not to blog about it at all, you dont blog for the entire week. You should be holding your head down in shame for your words, they were wrong and hateful. That is not the gretchen that I have grown to love. You need to apologize to Vicki, you were out of line.

Gretchen, I really like you. But you know better than to say something about somebody's health without knowing all the facts.

Gretchen, you of all people should be more sensitive about a person's health issues, even if that person is not a close friend. What you implied about Vicki was really insensitive.

Sadly, you really lowered yourself in this viewer's eyes on this episode.

This is the first time i have ever commented on anything anyone has done on any of the housewives show but i watched the last 10 mins of the show with my mouth open. I seriously could not believe the words coming out of Gretchen's mouth. I went to see if she had updated her blog to apoligize for being so insensitive and was shocked to see that she hadn't. I know that we have all said and done things that we are not proud of because we are hurt but all it takes is to admit you have done something wrong. By Gretchen not commenting kinda confirms what i've been feeling all along about her this season. Being on this show is making her a very bitter, mean spirited person. I hope she's making alot of money selling her bags and make-up but I wonder if it's worth what she's given up.

Gretchen, I have always been a fan of yours also, your my favorite OC housewife for sure. I just want to say that last season you ignored Tamars horrible and hurtful remarks and now your fighting back and I dont blame you at all. But I think even though it feels good to talk about her just to ignore it like you did last time and be the stronger person that everyone knows you are. You had delt with so much with those women and I think it is so horrible what Tamara and Vikki said about you. Keep your chin up you have so much support dont go to their level its not worth it your so much better!
Nicole

Dear Gretchen, like others who have posted, I really like you and wish you great happiness and success in all that you do. In order to be your most fabulous, however, you do need to take back your positive power and light from the people who have clouded them over in darkness, and pray that those in such darkness will find their own light as well. You do not strike me as a naturally mean girl, while others on the show who want you to forgive and forget the mean things that they did because they blame their behavior on going through a bad time (though they are still mean while outwardly professing to be happy - perhaps because they are internally still miserable and know that they own at least part of the responsibility for being so) seem to be mean quite naturally (they seem to feel better about themselves when they can put others down). You do not strike me as a mean girl, but someone who was hurt and carries bitterness. Again, that only gives those who hurt you continued power over you. You are much better than that. You're smarter than that. Heal yourself from what people have done to you. Forgive yourself for being mean in defense and protection of yourself. I agree with others that you should apologize to Vicki. Do not despair if Vicki does not accept your sincere and genuine apology. She is going through a tough time and needs to find her way, needs to learn again what it feels like to trust and be loved. I think everyone on your show will struggle with determining who is sincere and genuine. It is most important that you know that you are being sincere and genuine. Eventually, everthing will realign and fall into place. Drama does make the show interesting, but the negative drama just makes it annoying. I change channels often when the mean girls are on. I tune in when you're on, but have had to switch away on occasion. I am still very hopeful for you. Best wishes to you!!!

Dear Gretchen,

Bums me out that people like to rag on Slade... I don't know what kind of man he used to be, but from what is apparent on the show these days, he is kind, sharp and he has a big heart.

Money will stress you out... if you let it! I guess it comes down to priorities. There are a lot of men out there who wouldn't curl their girlfriend's hair (and not break up with her when she outed him on national television - haha!) and then stick up for himself appropriately and respectfully the next minute. There are a lot of men out there who wouldn't be so honest with themselves and others. I'm saying... I think you might be focusing too much on his "bad" qualities, or what you perceive as lacking in your relationship. Maybe you're forgetting to look at what is honorable and worthy of your respect? Or maybe you see it, but you're still focusing too much on the other bits (and so you love him, but it breaks your heart instead of bringing you joy)? There will always be problems in relationships, but likewise, a person's inherent character often stands the test of time - and good character is kinda hard to find these days!

I like you, Gretchen, because you're very honest and you also have a big heart. I hope you will listen to it before anyone else's words. You know Slade better than any of us do... I wish you both the best. :)

Where is your blog for this week, Gretchen??

own your mistakes instead of hiding from them!

Gretchen,

I have always been a fan of yours, until you made the shameful comments about Vicki being in the hospital. It was extraordinarily insensitive and obviously wrong. I saw you on Watch what happens live after the show aired, you had an opportunity to apologize and admit how horrible your behavior was but you did not. By you not acknowledging that what you said and how you acted was shameful really just brought the shame to another level. I also feel that you should apologize publically to her and her family.

No one fakes internal bleeding to get out of a social event.........

I am so tired of all the attacks on Gretchen.... Who would sit there and let the likes of Tamra be cruel and mean without giving some back... I know I wouldn't.... It was OK for Tamra and everyone else to comment at Peggy and Micah's party about Slade (spending time with his son's) laughing and being mean and insensitive. Slade's youngest sun is fighting a battle that know one would wish upon anyone - and Tamra, Vicki and Donn did not hesitate to be rude!!!

i really dont care what others say about you ,i think you are a very srtong lady keep that heart of yours you are great,

hey girl really liked you and sympathised with what u went through with jeff and now slade but for you pass that comment about vicki was very unhuman! I was shocked u said that! When i thought you of all people would know much better! I rest my case! xoxo