Ashley: I've Never Been One to Respond to Ultimatums

BravoTV.com: Were you worried about bringing [cast_bio_link id="1092591" label="Gizelle Bryant"]Gizelle[/cast_bio_link] around new “young blood”[cast_bio_link id="1134608" label="Candiace Dillard"]Candiace[/cast_bio_link] considering your past with her? How do you think it went?
AD: It was no coincidence that I introduced these two in a calm, zen yoga class! Gizelle has a tendency to give newbies the third degree, but in the end I think it all went well. Candiace even got some words of wisdom from the former First Lady herself. I was just happy I helped teach my first yoga class and they stayed till the end. Wooty woot!

BravoTV.com: What do you think about what [cast_bio_link id="1092631" label="Robyn Dixon"]Robyn[/cast_bio_link] saying you don't understand what she was really going through?
AD: At this point, I am bowing out. While I wouldn't make the same decisions with justifications like Robyn's, she is leading her own life. Just as the other women stayed quiet and didn't comment on the Dixon situation, I will do the same. I'm just happy to see that they are getting to a better place and finding happiness together.

BravoTV.com: Tell us about Michael’s ultimatum and telling you to completely cut off your mom.
AD: I've never been one to respond to ultimatums, but this is a completely different situation than I've experienced before. I can see where Michael is coming from objectively, but the relationship I have with my mom is deeply rooted. While it may be the right decision to discontinue financial support, it's hard for me to think about leaving her without resources to support herself and my sister. Even though Mom made the decision to be with her partner and live their lifestyle, I feel indebted for the love she's always given me. Now I have to find a way to honor the wishes of my husband, as well as nurture a healthy relationship with my family. It's quite a task.

BravoTV.com: What did you think about the ladies’ “grilling” Candiace?
AD: I'm not surprised the beef wasn't the only thing barbecued at bubble soccer. Candiace's life story is rather unconventional, especially in comparison to how this generation of women live, but I'm glad to see she hung in there. It can be very intimidating coming into this group, especially if you're young and cute. I must say I was surprised to see Charrisse with so many questions but it was nice to see her joining us! Sha is back!

BravoTV.com: That wig moment… what are your thoughts?
AD: They're creepy and they're kooky, mysterious and spooky... if[cast_bio_link id="undefined"]Karen[/cast_bio_link] didn't look like Cousin It, boy howdy I don't know what does! She kept a good nature about it and just slid her wig back into place. That's the Karen we know and love, whenever she comes out.