‘Real housewives’ shows are anything but realistic

Over the years there have been a myriad of reality shows that focus on a theme called “real housewives.” They started out with their first show “The Real Housewives of Orange County” in 2006. As a result of the success several more followed. Some of the women on the shows have become famous as a result. Bethenny Frankel from the New York City show has written self-help books, created Skinny Girl products, and hosted a talk show for a year. The most infamous housewife is Teresa Guidice and her husband Joe, who were indicted on federal fraud charges for concealing income and lying during bankruptcy hearings. At the time they were living in baronial splendor and acting like they were born to the cloth.

I frankly do not understand the reason the shows became so popular, nor do I understand the concept. I was a real housewife and to some degree still am. I never looked like any of those women and I don’t have any female friends who do. Most of the women on the shows have long hair that’s highlighted, manicured nails and faces that don’t seem to move without hurricane force winds buffeting them around.

Their daily lives seem to consist of lots of gossiping about each other and their families, worrying about their appearances and having arguments that in some cases end up looking like competition for the World Wrestling Federation.

I watched a few episodes out of curiosity and couldn’t understand why they had any air time at all. I would rather watch a squirrel trying to get on my bird feeder. They, at least, seem to have a purpose. I suppose you could consider it entertaining, but it certainly isn’t real.

I had three children, a home to take care of, food shopping that had to be done and meals that had to be made. My days and nights would often meld together. I did not have time to put on makeup or have my hair styled. I looked presentable, but my go-to wardrobe was a pair of sweatpants and a loose-fitting T-shirt. Sneakers were my shoe of choice, since wearing high heels while chasing a couple of kids would have put me in the emergency room. In fact I can’t think of anyone I hung around who resembled any of the women on the above mentioned shows. Most of our conversations centered on how exhausted we were and how little time we had for ourselves.

I wonder what housewives they’ll target next? Maybe the Real Housewives of Eskimos or The Real Housewives of Mongolian Horsemen? How about The Real Housewives of Butchers? I think I’m on to something. There is no end to the possibilities of this so-called franchise. But for the sake of our intellects, I hope the end is in sight!