Answers with Kristen Taekman

Answer 1

You have lived all over the world...from New York to Italy to Australia to Paris, what has been your favorite city to live in?

My favorite city to live in has been NYC. I love the high intensity pace of the city, the hustle and bustle. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere! We have everything at our fingertips: culture, friends, shopping, the best doctors, etc. It really is the perfect place. NYC is very motivating. I also love that in Tribeca where I live you can relax with the kids, our neighborhood is very quiet on the weekends.

Answer 2

You've been married to your husband Josh Taekman for 10 years now. What are your top 3 tips for a successful marriage?

• Listen! Communication is huge.
• Don't sweat the small stuff. Sometimes when I get stressed out, I focus on the little things and have hard time letting go. It's so important to just be in the moment and let the little things go and focus on the solution and don't dwell on the problem.
• Give each other space and allow each other some independence while also operating as a team. We both travel on our own girls trips and guys trips. You must have trust and we both think jealousy is an ugly emotion.

Answer 3

How did you meet Josh? What did you do for your first date?

Josh and I met through mutual friends in NYC at a concert. Our first date was at this burrito joint in East Village around the corner from where I lived at the time. He is a California guy and LOVES burritos. I am from CT and at that time hadn't ever had a burrito, can you imagine??

Answer 4

How has having your children, Cash and Kingsley, changed the dynamic of your marriage and your life?

Having kids has really added a whole new dynamic to or relationship. We are complete and whole! It's really hard to even imagine or remember what our life was like before our kids. Our life now is busy, busy, busy. Non-stop. No sleep. no rest...GO GO GO.

Answer 5

This is your second season as a New York City Housewife. How is your experience on RHONY this season different from your experience last season?

Last season I spent a lot of it getting to know the other women and learning the ropes. This year relationships were already developed. It's been fun getting to know the women more and using my TV time for good. I host a charity event for Smile Train to raise money for kids with cleft palates. It's been very rewarding!

Answer 6

Most recently, Bethenny threw a birthday party for herself and didn't invite you. Does this change the way you view your friendship?

No, I wasn't at all surprised I wasn't invited...were you?!

Answer 7

How do you stay sane amidst the drama that is "The Real Housewives of New York City"?

I stay true to myself. I get to go home to my husband and kids and forget about it all. Nothing a glass of wine, a hug from my kids and a good night's sleep won't cure!

Answer 8

Before you were a New York City Housewife, you were an insanely successful model. What was your favorite shoot that you completed? Did you have a favorite photographer to work with?

My favorite shoot was at the base of the pyramids in Egypt! I need to find those photos!??

Answer 9

Why did you decide to make a professional career out of modeling?

I sort of fell into modeling. At a young age lots of people told my mom that I should model finally my mom brought me to the local John Casablanca's school. I completed the classes, my parents said that if you could just make back the tuition for the school it would be worth it. The first job I got paid off the schooling and I have been modeling ever since!

Answer 10

As a model, your career must have revolved around the physical shape and health of your body. What was/is your fitness and diet routine?

I am blessed with a high metabolism, I enjoy spinning, and pilates. I try and eat as healthy as possible. Low sugar, no caffeine and gluten free at home.