by Jessica Blackwell

"If you're not guilty, why would you care if the girl is here, or not?"

Kim G swears by her fake lips that she did not bring Monica to stir up drama. The fact that she brought a bodyguard, betrays that statement. After Monica was asked to leave, she continued to talk loudly about the situation when Teresa was standing less than five feet away. Caroline overheard her and confronted her in a civil and calm manner. Of course, Kim G became belligerent and was escorted out by Albie who tried to diffuse the situation, since she is his best friend's mother.

The party, although drama filled, was a success in other ways since the Gorga's and Giudices did not fight. They also collected a good amount of toys for the children's hospital.

"I love you, I just don't like some of the things you do"

This was Ashley's first Christmas without her Dad, and she continued to be bummed. Chris seemed desperate to bridge the gap between them, even going so far as to call in to Caroline's radio show to ask for advice. Her and Chris seemed to have a good heart to heart at Caroline's Christmas Eve dinner when Ashley declared that her New Year's Resolution was to get him to to like her.

"Joe and Teresa say some things about us, that should never be said. We're family"

I was surprised to learn that Melissa and Joe have a nanny, who surfaced on this episode. Hmm.. With their mystery au pair in tow, they headed over to Teresa's for the holiday, although Joe was hesitant since Joe Giudice's family was going to be there. Melissa did all she could to avoid any tantrums, making sure she brought the right cookies this year!

Joe Giudice made some extremely rude comments about Melissa and Joe while they were within earshot. It's not clear if they heard him or not, but they tried to hightail over to Kathy's very shortly after that. I'm not sure if it's the way the cameras/editing is spinning it, but it seems that Teresa and her husband are the issue. Not Joey and his wife. I hope this family can keep the peace, at least for a few more episodes.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey airs Sundays at 10/9c on Bravo.

(Image courtesy of Bravo)