by Priscilla Benfield

Created on: December 21, 2009

All I can do in response to this question is all that any other writer can do, make my best observation based upon what the media has reported on Nicole Richie recently.

Nicole Richie was once the party-girl sidekick to Paris Hilton. Photos of Nicole and Paris leaving or going to the hot night spots or parties were commonplace for a few years. Then there was their "reality" show where they pretended to try to fit in with "regular" folk. I must admit that I did watch it the first season. I enjoyed Nicole's sense of humor and saw in her some comedic talent.

During those days the story was that Nicole had had a problem with drugs among them heroin and of course, there was her infamous mug shot and sentencing for DUI. It appeared for a time that Nicole was just another celebrity who got off easy for partying.

She became pregnant and many people probably wondered if she was ready for that kind of challenge. Nicole appears to have surprised everyone. She went from a party girl to a responsible mom of two children. She and her boyfriend are very active with their charity to give back to children less fortunate and she looks like she is using her celebrity to live a more positive life.

Remember when Paris Hilton appeared on Larry King and told the world how she intended to change her life after her prison stay? She was going to start being more charitable and appreciative of her celebrity by doing good. Well, so far she has not made good on her promises. Nicole, on the other hand, has made a complete turn around in her life.

Does Nicole Ritchie have what it takes to be a good mother? Not knowing her personally, I cannot answer for sure but if what we have seen of her in the media is any indication, I would have to answer why not. Obviously she has to struggle daily to stay clean, most former addicts do. If Nicole Ritchie was still abusing drugs and being a party girl I am sure the paparazzi would have the pictures. The most recent pictures of Nicole Ritchie show her shopping with her precious little girl Harlow. No more wild nights with Paris. Nicole Ritchie appears to have put her party girl past behind her.

She and her boyfriend seem to be dedicated not only to each other but to their family. They have their charity work and will continue to be in the spotlight because of their celebrity but I think that Nicole will continue to be seen as a former bad girl who met the right guy and straightened her life out. Being a former wild girl with a famous last name will only be a help as she raises her children. She knows the mistakes that she made and will hopefully be able to steer her children from making the same mistakes.

Nicole has the chance to be a good mother and so far, it appears that is what she is. Until some nanny writes a tell-all or a picture is exposed that shows otherwise, Nicole Ritchie is probably doing her best to be a good mom to her babies.One celebrity that finds their way out of their addiction and goes on to have a happy, fullfilling life gives hope to many. I say good for you Nicole and keep it up.

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