I Need Time

I'm so excited to unveil Tamra and my new company, Wines by Wives, on tonight's episode. It's a concept that we talked about doing for several years, and finally launched it tonight with a formal party with all of our closest friends. We know that wine is a cocktail that many people enjoy, and we wanted to have a membership so our fans could share in our "favorite monthly selections." The best part of our new company is not only will you be able to enjoy our favorite wines of the month, but 10 percent of all the proceeds go to each of our chosen charities.

I thought it would be a perfect night at the Wines by Wives party to announce to my close friends that Briana eloped and is legally married. HOLY CRAP! Although I was still in somewhat of a state of shock that she was married, I wanted her to feel the joy of finally letting everyone else know. What Briana didn't know is that I flew my brother Billy (her favorite uncle) in to surprise her and find out that she just eloped. I think Briana was just as surprised that Billy came to see her as I was when she told me she eloped. I love surprises!

There was an uncomfortable moment this evening when both Mike and Briana met Brooks. I knew there would never be a good time, but felt tonight was just as good as any. Looking back, I wish they would have met without other people around, but somehow after several failed attempts we just couldn't make that happen.

Both Mike and Briana are very guarded and very territorial of me. You could feel the tension in the air when Brooks and I sat in the room with Briana and Ryan. Looking back, it was probably one of the most uncomfortable moments of my life. I really do not like conflict and when it comes to my kids, they are the first priority in my life. I don't like them being disrespectful, but I do acknowledge that they didn't mean to be. It's interesting that now they are 25 and 26 and are adults. I still worry about them like they were five and six. I guess that feeling will never go away. Sometimes I think it was easier when they were younger than it is now. Either way, they are my kids. They are my priority, and I understand their fears and the uncertainty that comes with their mother dating.

Since this night seven months ago, we are all at a much better place. Brooks, Mike, and I just got back from the Kentucky Derby together and Briana, Ryan, Brooks, and I go out on double dates quite often. It's not perfect by any means, but it is much better than it was when this episode filmed.

I am not rushing into marriage with Brooks, as I myself have a lot of growing and healing to do. The only thing I believe that will help me through is TIME. Those of you that have ever been divorced, understand that it's like dealing with a death -- except the person is still around. It's a void that is very difficult, but I know it's the right thing for Donn and I. Brooks has been a real partner through all of my transitions and can feel the stress all around. He has stood beside me encouraging me to be patient with Mike and Briana, and consistently influences me to shower them with love. He continuously reassures me that "everything will be OK in God's timing." To say I haven't shed an ocean of tears through all of this transition would be an understatement.

It's not that they don't like or respect Brooks. I believe it doesn't matter who it would be they would probably feel the same way.

Thank you all for your encouragement to both Briana and Ryan and to myself with dating Brooks. He is a very sweet man that does not deserve the backlash that he has been receiving from some of my friends. I appreciate their concern, but at the end of the day it's my life and if I'm happy that should be enough for them.

I hope you all have an amazing week and smile at someone you don't know, give a hug to someone you do know, and always look at the glass half full and not half empty. We control our thoughts and how we reach our destinations. . .It's the journey along the way that is important.

In closing, don't forget to contact my company if you are in the need of a 401K rollover recommendation, IRA rollover, or life insurance. We look forward to servicing your insurance needs.

Warmly,
Vicki Gunvalson
www.vickigunvalson.com