So I have to admit that when several of you sent me suggestions to write a column about the “Real Housewives of Brentwood,” I was a little surprised. I’ve never watched any of the shows based in Atlanta, California or New Jersey and had only heard stories of these housewives’ antics.

Beyond the Botox, hair appointments, dermatology appointments, shopping extravaganzas and plastic surgery, my image of the show is that it brings out the ugly side of women and society.

Now here in the Bubble, I have heard that some recent spring tennis matches involved some Brentwood ladies behaving badly. (Hey girls, there is no paycheck at the end of these matches.) But most of the time, when I think of the real housewives of Brentwood my thoughts turn to the many amazing women who grace our fair city -- the women who are trying to make a difference in their community, raising families, searching for ways to better themselves and stepping up through work and volunteering to be real women.

One of my favorite comments following my first column came from reader Jenny Watson, a life coach, co-author of "Unwritten Travels" and mother to four children. She suggested a "Real Housewives of Brentwood" story to “showcase women wonderfully running homes and families while becoming who they are created to be.”

Karen Dostlar, wife and mom to three boys, had a dream to make chocolate bars that look like guitars. Guess what? That dream is now a reality. Guitar Bars is a solid company right here in Brentwood.

And here’s a true story from the crazy place I like to call home.

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of volunteering for Friends and Fashion to benefit Monroe Carell, Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Through all the pre-parties and events leading up to the fashion show, one of my favorite memories was working with all the women on the committees. Though we all had different backgrounds -- some work, some stay at home, some have lived in the area forever, others were newcomers -- our hearts were all for one cause.

I have to admit that for a few weeks, getting new clothes and thinking more than I ever had about what to wear -- all the way down to my undergarments that supposedly used caffeine to make me look slimmer (hey don’t judge) -- became consuming and expensive.

The show was a success. But the morning after the event, I sleepily looked over at the pillow beside me to discover my 12-year-old son had crawled into my bed. His words will stick with me forever.

“Mom, today can you go back to the mommy who fixes me breakfast, does the laundry and makes my lunch? It’s always better when you do it.” Would a 12 year old really say that? Yes, my boy did and it was a good wake up call.

You see, it reminded me that despite all of the stuff around us, it is the love of a child that makes this real housewife of Brentwood’s day complete.

Jodi Rall is a special events coordinator and publicist who lives with her husband, four children, two dogs and various other pets in Brentwood. She has been known to play tennis. Contact her at jodi@brentwoodhomepage.com.