Tamra Barney, Vicki Gunvalson and Jeana Keough are still rattled over meeting blonde bombshell Gretchen Rossi. But tensions escalate even more when the newest housewife, Lynne Curtin, attempts to join the clique. Lynne and her husband of over 18 years, Frank, are happily married and own a beautiful seaside home in Laguna Beach, Calif., where they enjoy every minute of their active Southern California lifestyle. A former gymnast, Lynne is an avid surfer, runner, horseback rider and kick-boxer - and she has the toned body to prove it. Lynne does her best to keep control of her outspoken teenage girls - Raquel, 18, and Alexa, 16 - but her desire to be a friend to them often interferes with her lackluster disciplinary efforts. Lynne's laid-back philosophy on life flows into her lax parenting style: "I want to be the cool mom" I don't want to say no.".

Gretchen asks Jeff's children to come out from Michigan and rotate visits to their father's bedside. Gretchen takes advantage of the kids' visit to spend a day in Hollywood and engage in the success of her friend Jo De la Rosa. Vicki accompanies Briana to the Red Cross to donate blood even though she is terrified of needles. Feeling the financial pinch of being a college student, Kara gets a summer job at a local boutique...and redefines "manual labor." Lynne frantically anticipates "the perfect" 18th birthday for her demanding daughter, Raquel. Things get off to a rocky start when a jealous squabble over their outfits threatens to dash Lynne's hopes for the perfect party. Lynne meets the other housewives for the first time at Orange County's hip new restaurant. Within minutes of arriving, Lynne makes a misstep that leads to some very awkward exchanges. Before the night is over, Tamra and Gretchen square off over Gretchen's treatment of her ailing fiance. This incident completely derails their budding friendship.