Gretchen Rossi joined the cast of the Housewives as a replacement for Season 2 housewife Tammy Knickerbocker. When Gretchen was approached to join the cast, she had no interest in the show, but her fianc� at the time (Jeff) convinced her to do it. Gretchen said the biggest misconception people have about her is that ?I was a Gold-digger?I have always been a very hard working woman who doesn?t need a man to take care of her. I have always been self sufficient.? Gretchen grew up playing soccer and softball, and was also a cheerleader. In high school, however, she suffered from an eating disorder. She stays in shape because she loves exercising. ?I?m active everyday whether I?m going for a walk, run, hike or bicycle ride.? She considers her greatest accomplishment as ?just becoming secure in my own skin.? Gretchen Rossi studied psychology at Baylor University in Dallas and then worked as a real estate agent in the South Orange County area. After Gretchen?s first marriage to Chris Rossi, she got engaged to Jeff Beitzel, who was 24 years older than her. Jeff died of leukemia. Gretchen then began dating Slade Smiley. Gretchen is growing her make-up and handbag line, as well as exploring forays into entertainment, including singing and dancing with the Pussycat Dolls in Las Vegas. Portions of the proceeds from her handbag line go to charity. ?I wanted to make sure that they not only offered customers quality product, but that they also gave back responsibly to the community.? She also released a single called ?Revelation? at a gay nightclub. Gretchen said she?d like to have a ?football team of kids? one day, but she?s ?old fashioned? and would like to be married before kids come into the picture. Gretchen said she keeps going because of her faith and relationship with God. ?I was raised in a Christian home and that has kept me grounded in life.? Gretchen Rossi lives in Orange County, California.