Junice's Out of Character Behavior
Ben shares his thoughts on Jewel's sister.
Bravotv.com: Do you think it was beneficial to have Jewel take over the wedding planning? Did you think she'd actually stay on budget?
Ben Tankard: Absolutely. When it comes to money management, she is the Michael Jordan in the family. I would be more like Scotty Pippen (2nd man). She is what I call a KFP (Kingdom Financial Planner). She has an economics degree and is a trained financial planner, so she knows how to shop for the best deals on flowers, designs, etc. She can squeeze the life out of a nickel, so I am happy she is helping out. My patience is too short, and I would just do the big daddy thing and pay too much just to do it quick and get it over with. I'm better with the bigger purchases like shopping for the best home, car, or plane deals. Jewel is best with the hostess type projects. My guess is she will make it LOOK like it is over budget, but she will actually come in UNDER budget.
Bravotv.com: Were you proud to see Brooklyn planning her hair show? Were you surprised by how it turned out?
Ben: YES, we always knew Brooklyn had tremendous potential (which is why we are so hard on her). Looks like all the pressure is paying off! We are very proud parents to witness Brookie pull off this major event. We knew it would be a good event (and better than the last one), but had no idea it would be this high end, New York Fashion Week type event that it turned out to be. We like these sort of surprises.
Bravotv.com: Why can't Brooklyn and Benji work it out? Is there a deeper issue there?
Ben: I don't know, but it is on my nerves! Yes, there’s a deeper issue, and it's called foolishness! I NEED TO GO TO THE BIBLE ON THIS ONE. The bible says, “Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.” (Proverbs 22:15) Bravotv.com: What do you think changed with Junice?
Ben: I have to think it is hormones from having the two kids really quickly, and other life issues pressing in. I have known Junice for 14 years (she worked for me for a few years), and she was sweet as pie. This behavior is so out of character, and it reminds me of some behaviors I witnessed with some other mothers I have seen with post-partum depression. But I'm not a doctor, just a brother in law that still loves her no matter what and will continue to help (and pray) in any way I can. After all, blood is "Thicker Than Water.”
Bravotv.com: How did you feel when you saw Cyrene apologize to Brooklyn?
Ben: Very teary! Finally, some breakthrough! At least the kids are listening to SOME of our words.