They say money can’t buy happiness. I agree that happiness can’t be purchased at Macy’s, but money can make life much easier, which in turn can lead to happiness (aka relief, stability, or security) for some.

You may be wondering where the random cash thoughts are coming from, so let me fill you in.

While watching Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” The Man on the Couch (yes, I made him watch it) and I were disgusted by Vicki’s greed and reluctance to slow down and enjoy life with her husband. But deep down, I think we both were a bit envious of the daily extravagances she and some of the other wives take for granted.

With her children both away at college, one would think that Vicki would be able to relax, but after thinking about it and reading her “Housewives” blog on the Web, I’ve had a change of heart.

Yes, her obsession with money and success sometimes can be sickening, but her reasons for doing it are not. It is easy to become accustomed to a certain lifestyle, especially one you are proud of and have attained yourself.

Looking back at comments made on the last episode, I don’t think it’s Vicki’s desire for money that drives her, but rather it’s the competitive edge that’s built into her. She has programmed herself to accept nothing but the best.

We don’t condemn contestants on “The Biggest Loser” for wanting to look and feel their best. We don’t put down “The Bachelor” for wanting to find his perfect love, and Vicki shouldn’t be any different.

She wants nothing but the best for her family, and on a much smaller scale I can understand that.

It’s too bad that it sometimes takes the holiday season to remind us of what’s important, but in the fast-paced lives that most of us lead today it’s easy to forget what really matters – family and friends. Not money and appearances.

While on the outside it appears that “The Housewives” want Prada, Gucci and Perrier, we need to remember that it’s reality TV, and that sex, money and drama sell because that’s what we want as viewers.