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Duggar Family gets Reality Show

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The Duggar family from Arkansas has 19 members which wouldn't be unusual if some of the members were cousins and grandparents -- but in the Duggars case 17 of them are children. And now all 19 members of the Duggar family will welcome viewers into their big world with a new Discovery show called "17 Kids and Counting."

The show will center around the every-growing Duggars clan who have become a pop culture phenomenon with regular appearances on talk shows and a large online following.

The parents, Jim Bob and Michelle, are high school sweethearts who after 20 years of marriage are still going strong -- Michelle is expecting another baby. The new TV show will introduce America to the family as well as give insights into each of the kids.

The show will premiere with the entire clan heading to New York for a Mother's Day surprise.

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Rating: 3.7/5 (59 votes cast)


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Comments (92)

She's pregnant with ANOTHER... (Below threshold)
ExSubNuke:

She's pregnant with ANOTHER one?!?!?!?!

I'm a conservative that believes in big families with strong family values... but COME ON!!! 18 Kids?!?!?! Buy a TV fer christsake.

I say, good for them. They... (Below threshold)
AJ:

I say, good for them. They can obviously take great care of their children.

They give me the creeps. Th... (Below threshold)
Denise:

They give me the creeps. That woman is like a zombie.

I sure won't be watching.

I don't think she's a zombi... (Below threshold)
ak:

I don't think she's a zombie. I just think she's one of those people who doesn't have, and has never had, any real personal interest in anything outside her family. Obviously. She's got 18 kids! My brother-in-law and his wife are the same way. If it's not about their nuclear family, they ain't listening.

I find the husband much more unappealing than the wife. But the kids are cute and funny and perfectly natural. Compare them to the budding sociopaths and divorcees in the making on that Sweet 16 horrorfest and some of the other reality shows.

The question I have always ... (Below threshold)
Kathy Thomas:

The question I have always wanted to have an answer to is how in the world does this woman's body hold up under the stress. Pregnancy is hard and to be pregnant for that many years is just beyond my imagination. Watching them is somehow disturbing.

I watched them on a special... (Below threshold)
shay:

I watched them on a special when they drove to Disney Land in a Winnebago..I really feel for these kids..They dont have a life outside of their siblings. They are so sheltered.. They oldest boy is like 19 and never dated before. I am so afraid they are going to have incest thing going on. They are like zombies.. the parents are so boring and they children I just want to pray. I think the husband has voodoo or some type of control on them and they dress like the children from the cult...this family is very very scary...

i'll watch the show, at lea... (Below threshold)
nancy:

i'll watch the show, at least a couple of times - just to see the family dynamic. i think it's interesting that they are so proud of having so many kids, yet it seems to be the oldest raising the youngest....they're beautiful kids though - which one of them could they give up? i say if they can afford it and not take advantage of the older kids, why not...

I think that the Duggar fam... (Below threshold)
Ensenaste:

I think that the Duggar family is very Blessed they are an awesome influnce on todays couple's with children. God Bless them.

The US average costs to rai... (Below threshold)

The US average costs to raise one child is $14000 per year. These low lifes are depending on the generosity of others to provide for their sideshow. This should be illegal.

this family is ridiculous! ... (Below threshold)
kate:

this family is ridiculous! I actually find it disgusting. how old is the woman?? some people should not be allowed to have children. just because you're fertile doesn't mean you have to compensate for everyone who is not! they need to stop. now.

they give me the creeps! h... (Below threshold)
j:

they give me the creeps! how old is the oldest kid and the parents have never let him spend any time alone with a girl, not even the one they've chosen for him, from that other weirdo family they've formed their "church" with. they're not wonderful-they're just on the other side of the extreme from the 'britney spears' parents. Both types scare me. he seems like a jonestown-ey cult leader and she strikes me as his brainwashed right hand. And enough with the breeding! my irish-catholic grandparents didn't have that many kids! And they lived on a farm, in an era when there were a lot more infant deaths. Did no one teach these people about the finite resources they're hogging? They don't believe in birth control? How bout the Rhythm method, lady? even the catholic church supports that one!!! isn't their cult big enough?

No, they do not depending o... (Below threshold)
Michelle:

No, they do not depending on others to provide for their family. They have always been very capable of handling things themselves. They are truly a fabulous family from the things I've read and watched about them. Coming from a large family myself - my Mom's fmaily - I find it very interesting how they do it and I will be watching their show! Do I agree with everyhitng they do? Certainly not. But whatever it is they are doing with and for their children is far superior to most of this country and the way parents let "kids be kids".

Although I am a firm believ... (Below threshold)
sue:

Although I am a firm believer in birth control, this family seems to be handling everything very well and does not take "handouts" as the above post said. If you had ever watched a show about them, you would know that. Personally, the 2 kids I have are enough for me, but that is not everyone's choice. That's what this is about "Choice" they choose to continue to have children. I do worry that Michelle's health, after all of these pregnancies, may fail at some point and I hope her Dr's are keeping a close eye on things. If it comes to a choice between her health and another pregnancy, I certainly hope she and her family would not choose to lose her just for more children.

I have personally talked wi... (Below threshold)
omaha:

I have personally talked with JimBob and Michelle, If they can support there kids that is great. they are a good family,They both know how to support those kids and there way of life is better than that breeding farm in Texas. but it not that uncommon to have a lot of kids these days. My sister and her husband has 10 children i dont see any tv producers calling them.OR ANY ONE ELSE WITH MORE THAN 10 KIDS!!! with my sister passing away last year its just my brother in law taking care of the kids with no hand outs or assistant from the state.Luckly most of the kids are school aged. iam pretty sure there are other families out there in the world that has more than 10 kids and none of them are bieng called in to the spot light

I loved watching the way th... (Below threshold)
mellie:

I loved watching the way this family worked with each other. They are a very interesting lovable family that has it together. I can't believe she's preggers again. I wonder how many more they plan on having. I have four and that's plenty for me but some people are just meant to do that which is great. I think the Duggars will have successful kids. Those kids are so focused. I think it's great they want their own reality show and I will definately be watching them like I did when they first came out.

In today world it's great ... (Below threshold)
Frances Devlin:

In today world it's great to see a family with faith, morals, and family values.
It's a great way for our young men and women to see Our Lord never gives us more then we can handle, he will provide.
Bless you all

I saw a show about this fam... (Below threshold)

I saw a show about this family with the mother bragging about how all she ever has to buy are socks and underwear. She said everyone in the area is constantly dropping trash at her house. Asides from money, nobody can emotionally support 18 children or have time for all that. I would also be embarrassed to brag about having my oldest raising the youngest. Not to mention these children are missing out important life lessons such as socialization in new environments and developing an independent personality. Let's hope these children grow up to be unproductive sheep like their parents.

I have alot of respect for ... (Below threshold)
.Debbie:

I have alot of respect for the family, I come from a big family,And yes I will watch their show and shame on those who suggest incest, They are just a loving family leave them alone

I feel sorry for people who... (Below threshold)
Shari:

I feel sorry for people who can't see the benefits of a large family and the lifelong bonds that it builds. Our society is too commercial, too disposable, and too selfish.Different cultures survive totally on family and extended family to provide for and raise children and the elders including the older children all participate in raising and caring for the younger ones.Our society doesn't even want to care for our elderly anymore. Just because it's not your style doesn't mean it doesn't work. I commend them and may God bless them.

Well ill be having that muc... (Below threshold)
Nydia:

Well ill be having that much kids to if the olders ones are taking care of the younger ones to!!! All she is doing is laying on her back having KIDS the older kids doesnt have a clue about the REAL world Lady you should stop having kids and let the older kids explore life with out having a "BUDDY" with them. And what is up with the clothes they wear... Do they think there back in the 1920's wake up its 2008... We are always talking about child labor I think they should keep an eye on these people the kids cook, clean, teach, build they do everything and the MOTHER only goal in life is just having sex to get pregnant so every one can have a "BUDDY" what a life LOL LOL
I wouldnt be watching this show

i think its a little strang... (Below threshold)
jodi:

i think its a little strange . i wouldnt go there. my great grandma had 12 and my husbands grandparents had 23 so what ever you want, they seem to be happy. thats what counts.and you never see their house dirty have you ever watched the Roloffs they ae a bunch of pigs their house is dirty all the time and the younger boy needs his butt blistered these big familys dont seem to have trouble with there kids well maybe maddy on jon and kate could stand a kick in the pants once and a while in stead of the corner but all in all they are good kids too

Those who are being so nega... (Below threshold)
Kam:

Those who are being so negative have obviously never heard of this family before. They are inspirational. It's their choice to have so many kids, I would never do it, but they have...so I say good for them! They are remarkable! I'd much rather watch them than some of these lame teeny bopper shows like the hills or super sweet 16...those are some screwed up kids...not the Duggars...the Duggars have great values that are not often seen in todays society...personally, I'm sick of seeing all these shows about spoiled rich brats who are dumber than rocks and have no morals.

great family but dang - tha... (Below threshold)
pamsy:

great family but dang - that mom is on the wrong reality show. She needs "What Not to Wear" desperately - at least for that hair.

I love this family! We curr... (Below threshold)
Brandi:

I love this family! We currently only have 5 children with a 6th on the way, so we actually learn quite a bit from them. Their children are so intelligent, hard working, down to earth, and very mature! I'm not sure what people think "teenagers" should be like - certainly they should not be like the ones I run into around town showing 2/3 of their skin and being rude and disrespectful - but I think they are a great example of what children should really be like. I think most people are just jealous and that's why they react negatively to the Duggars. They have no idea how to get their children to pick up their own dirty laundry, much less do the household laundry. Their daughters are leaving home to "do their own thing" so learning to cook a meal for the family never crossed their minds. We live a lot like the Duggars and will continue to have children. It's actually very healthy for our bodies. Less cycles in a woman's lifetime, as well as more breastfeeding reduces every form of female cancer. Birth control and limiting family size increases them all. How is that more healthy? Most of the US is just ignorant of what our bodies actually need, and basically ignorant of what large families are really like. I hope the show opens many eyes. Blessings!

Interesting comments abound... (Below threshold)
evonne walsh:

Interesting comments abound. I'm just wondering.....looking into today's public/government education classrooms, what part of socialization do you really want your child learning.....Disrepect? Selfishness? Deceit? Cheating? Swearing? Bullying? Sex education in Pre-K? Tolerance? How to dress half naked?
What evidence do you see that this has produced upstanding, hard-working, solid, giving, contributing, patriotic citizens? Teens having/making babies, multiple generations of public assistant families ~ reproducing for bigger government checks.
Seems that the Pro-Choice/Tolerance folks are fine with you believing what you want....as long as you agree with them!
Perhaps it is the focus on building self esteem, finding yourself, & independent thinking that has cause our nation to go in the negative direction that it has; personal debt has never been higher, divorce rate has skyrocketed and the nucleus family has deteriorated....Socialization is learning to function in society while maintaining moral and personal standards, standing firm in the tide of 'the world' and not getting pulled down in the undertow.


I am glad they all seem to ... (Below threshold)
Susie:

I am glad they all seem to get along well but what would happen if someting happened to the parents in this family.
I also feel like the mother has no voice she even looks intimidated most of the time.
Why is it always the father doing all the preaching and yes I know there is a family head but why must it always be him.
The children are forced to wear what they make them give them a choice. Conservative clothing and new can't they ever have new clothes?
Let the older children see the world without the parents hovering all the time. If they feel they are that great of parents then they should feel secure that the children will act properly.
I have raised 4 children, they are respectful, trustworthy,kind to others but they have their own opinions not just mine.

They make me sick... (Below threshold)
Henry Hobson:

They make me sick

I would LOVE to see the flo... (Below threshold)
Sharon Webb:

I would LOVE to see the floor plan of their house. How many loads of laundry do they do a day? I have a rather small by their standards family and we can never have enough room to put just one pair of shoes per person. And you need good shoes, old playaround shoes, boots. where do they keep it all. What kind of games can that many kids play?? Didn't see a playground on thier land. How many kids to a room??

I suggest that all the nega... (Below threshold)
Grant & Joyce Blevins:

I suggest that all the negative comments be saved until u actually watch a season of their show so a more informed decision can be made. comments like living off other people, no social life for kids, family cult etc, are unfounded, or is just your way the right way?. let these children speak for their selfs. dont we condemn our politicians for doing the same, I believe the duggers have things well in hand and will do what is needed, dont be jelous be happy for them how many of us can even get past two children without failing as parents i say god bless the duggers.

Are you friggin kidding me?... (Below threshold)
John:

Are you friggin kidding me? I can't think of anything more irresponsible than to add those kind of numbers to this already overpopulated planet. Maybe everybody should have 19 kids, then in a couple generations there wouldn't be anywhere on earth to stand. Her husband should try using his other head!!!

Who are all of you to judge... (Below threshold)
SAS:

Who are all of you to judge on what anyone outside your own family does? Wake up and look at reality. We are all different. Some families can't handle one child. This family can handle eighteen. Get over it and enjoy the diversity!

I can think of loads of thi... (Below threshold)
SAS:

I can think of loads of things more irresponsible! People making comments need to think before they type!

I love their morals and how... (Below threshold)
Gloria:

I love their morals and how loving they all seem and i dig the way they run their house hold. It's so clean and organized they put the little people show to shame!! The Duggars have far more people and their house is waaaay cleaner. The only thing that bothers is me that is that the older siblings get stuck taking care of the younger ones, she spread um she should be the one taking care of them.

I think they have a great f... (Below threshold)
Josie:

I think they have a great family and if they can raise so many children with all that love....MORE POWER TO THEM!!!

Hopefully everyone will get... (Below threshold)
Traffic stop:

Hopefully everyone will get full scholarships to college :P

Eh, nothing new with her be... (Below threshold)
Big Family:

Eh, nothing new with her being pregnant again. My mom's mom had 20!

You learn how to adapt and how to get by w/o the things in life we all take for granted.

These people get over $60,0... (Below threshold)

These people get over $60,000 a year from the government and don't pay any taxes.

I am just curious about thi... (Below threshold)
jean:

I am just curious about this television show. At one time when I was watching one of the early episodes, there was a comment made that they have no television, video games, etc. I think they were playing kickball (which is fine). I just find it rather hypocritical that they do not believe in TV but now are getting their own show. Don't get me wrong, I know children today watch too much TV but I was wondering if they changed their attitude about such things.

Who's paying for all this, ... (Below threshold)
farnbarn:

Who's paying for all this, the public! It's totally outrageous when there are so many other important work that could be done with their time other than procreating!

I think Jon and Kate are be... (Below threshold)
Katy:

I think Jon and Kate are better because the Buggars have 17 kids, but I bet they didn't have sextuplets.

Can't wait! Ive watched all... (Below threshold)
Rhonda:

Can't wait! Ive watched all the shows on the Duggars I could find! Please advise when& where for the new show.

what a wonderful inspiratio... (Below threshold)
charlene:

what a wonderful inspiration on how to raise kids the right way. I cannot wait to watch their show and anyone who does will know that Jim bob made his money on real estate and they are self sufficient. They pay cash for everything, how many of you bashers can say that?

Well, looks like they just ... (Below threshold)

Well, looks like they just got their hypocritical meal ticket... They don't allow tv in their home, yet, they are jumping on America's Reality Show bandwagon...can you say Cha-CHING??? They are going to make a few million since the rest of us are going to be curious enough to want to watch how they keep it all together... That will cover any/all expenses they have...and will catapult their kids into instant 'stardom'...and since the kid thing is working for them so far..with all the publicity...expect her to be having kids until she passes. The more kids, the more government assistance, and the more reality shows will want them...and the more their kids will 'have to face the real world'..with a camera documenting it all.. too funny.

I've always wondered what i... (Below threshold)
leighanne:

I've always wondered what is it they believe that only lets the girls wear skirts or dresses. (Lucky boys get to be comfortable and wear jeans when playing outside.) Are they Mormons? Perhaps for the new show the mom will get a hairstyle update.

They look to me to be the o... (Below threshold)
charlene:

They look to me to be the old fashioned Pentecostal. I was raised the saem way till I switched to Assembly of God

I THINK ITS GREAT BUT WHAT ... (Below threshold)
cathy:

I THINK ITS GREAT BUT WHAT DOES HE DO FOR A LIVING .THERE IS NO WAY ONE CAN AFFORD ALL OF IT INCLUDING THE HOUSE WITHOUT ASSISTANCE. IF IF THE ARE GETTING ASSISTANCE THERE ARE ALOT OF PEOPLE THAT NEED IT AND IT IS RIDICULOUS BECAUSE IF WE ALL HAD KIDS AND NOT THINK ABOUT SUPPORTING THEM THE WORLD WOULD BE ON ASSISTANCE.

What makes you think they a... (Below threshold)
jl:

What makes you think they are mormon? They could be anything. All the mormons I know dress really modern. I agree they need a make-over, but let's wait and see before we judge. If it works for them, fine. I am just glad I do not have to do the laundry.

I think the're GREAT! Most ... (Below threshold)
Kitty:

I think the're GREAT! Most parents cannot raise one child without spanking or yelling at them!

OMG...you read my mind...Ma... (Below threshold)
Justhere:

OMG...you read my mind...Maddy on Jon and Kate needs a spanking...bad...and Kate needs to be nicer to Jon. Personally, I like them better than the Duggars...God squaders make me nervous.

They ought to have a show w... (Below threshold)
L:

They ought to have a show where the Mom gets her knees sewn together. There's obviously not enough to do in Arkansas. Good Lord! Know when to say when. I agree with the rest of you - it's just creepy. I'd like to know how they plan to put them all through college. They'll need the reality show money for that! I say it's not fair to the older kids who would have to help raise the younger ones. Mom can't do it on her own, but it shouldn't be put on the older kids either.

Seriously, these people are... (Below threshold)
BLY:

Seriously, these people are mentally ill and have some sort of need that is not normal. I cannot believe they are being rewarded with a television show - let me guess - the money?

They need professional help - a simple truth.

It seems that the oldest ch... (Below threshold)
Lynette:

It seems that the oldest children do more of the actual raising of the younger children then the parents actually do. Also, do any of these children ever have a sense of personal privacy or their own space? Their parents have their own room, but what if any accomadations have been made for the more private child?

It's all well and good to have a large family I guess if the needs of each person can be meet not only on a phyical level, but on an emotional level. I think that these parents are selfish.

I will watch this show to s... (Below threshold)
Brenda:

I will watch this show to see what they are teaching their kids..not that it's my business, but since they are putting themselves out there I would like to know what they are teaching about reducing reusing recycling and helping to make the world (not just theirs) a better place. I have seen a few of their specials and I do not agree with the seemingly ritualistic approach to their day to day life. Sure their routines work well for them...it has to, otherwise things would be utter chaos. It's not my family, and they are doing what they think is right for them. The kids don't know anything different and the effects (good or not) wont be found out until much, much later. My concern is for all of these families who are having so many children....I truly hope their parents are teaching their children how not to use what resources our Earth has left and how to give back to their world. With all of these people they should be able to accomplish alot and I want to see that this family is doing their part. I don't care how they do the laundry or go shopping...they do it like everyone else, they have just chosen to do it for a much larger household than most American. I personally have more respect for people who choose to adopt or foster 17 kids rather than add to the over population of our world. Just because you can do something, doesn't mean you should. I will keep an open mind. These people seem like nice, honest and caring individuals, I just think continuously adding to the population tends to be on the irresponsible side....just my humble opinion.

John McCain picked the wron... (Below threshold)
Gail:

John McCain picked the wrong woman! She also must be worldly as she home schools them.

It is in the Bible that the... (Below threshold)
April:

It is in the Bible that the woman should not wear clothes that pertains to a man. To the one that asked about it. It is in the book of Deau. if you are interested in seeing it you can ask for the scripture. I imagine that they are full gospel in their belief from the apparel they wear. Personally I see nothing wrong with this I also dress this way. It is also internationally understood by the picture on the bathroom doors everywhere that the woman is the one in the dress. My granddaugther at 3 yrs old recently pointed this out to her mother when arguing for a dress to be put on her.

I will definitely tune in a... (Below threshold)
Shawn:

I will definitely tune in and watch. I have seen them several times on the Discovery channel specials. I WISH my house -- with only 2 children-- ran as well as their does! The haters out there need to remember that there was indeed a time when the immediate family was the primary source for social interaction and discourse. What a sad commentary on our current society to think that this is twisted!

I think the way the run th... (Below threshold)
Dana Sirotnak:

I think the way the run their family is quite an amazing achievement, if you have ever seen them on television. For today they are sort of a miracle. I have three children and it's a zoo over here. I am a little jealous that they have such love for one another and such peace in their home. They are almost from another world and I think their children will be great assets to our country...so let them go on. Good for them! God bless them and let them be a shining light....

I will not watch their show... (Below threshold)
Sue:

I will not watch their show! I am tired of these shows where parents exploit their children for financial gain. Including Jon& Kate Plus 8. Just because these people want to break the record with too many children. How can this be good for the younger children of the family who are being raised by their older siblings. I came from a large family and although we are close i do remember the hard times. I worry about each child's identity and each child exploring their own interests,if they are allowed to have any. It's not obvious.

Funny how we all comment an... (Below threshold)
Angel:

Funny how we all comment and non of us this in their shoes and really do not know what the kids think or how they truly live. Seems sad to me that some negative opinions on here are based on socilization. Which is not really always the best thing in th world.

I personally don't think it... (Below threshold)
Rosemary:

I personally don't think its safe for her to be having all these kids ... I mean she's not even giving her body time to heal and recover from her youngest one ... the kids have no friends outside the family which to me is wrong ... and with all these kids what if something were to happen to JimBob , then Michelle would be raising 18 kids by herself .. or what if something were to happen to Michelle .. then JimBob would be raising 18 kids by hiself ... this family acts like a cult to me ... the way they dress,talk,act,no friends but the siblings ... hopefully after the 18th one they'll both get fixed

My family loves the Duggars... (Below threshold)
Wendy:

My family loves the Duggars! They don't dress like they are in a cult! The girls just wear skirts! They usually just wear jeans and polos and the girls wear denim skirts or jumpers. There isn't anything wrong with that! Good kids, very good morals and sweet people!

Go Duggers. I can't wait t... (Below threshold)
Mom of 1:

Go Duggers. I can't wait to see the show. Finally a show with good values.

What does this man do for a... (Below threshold)
Brenda:

What does this man do for a living to be able to support all these kids and more on the way? I make 85,000 and have two kids and just make ends meet! She doesnt even give her body enough time to heal before she is having another. When will they stop!

It amazes me how many of yo... (Below threshold)
Kelly:

It amazes me how many of you commenting can even comment when your English is absolutely horrible. Read before hitting the post button between misspellings and the wrong use of there, their, they're etc... I quit reading about 15 posts in.

At least the Duggars are teaching their children about life and homeschooling them in all the areas to reach their goals.

And they make their own clothes and use simple patterns so the little ones can join in this part of learning.

seriously, I've been watchi... (Below threshold)
badkitty:

seriously, I've been watching them over the last few years and all i have to say is my mother in law and grandfather came from HUGE families (19 & 14) and what I've learned from listening to them is that the older children end up being constant babysitters, feeling they were robbed of their childhood, and feeling as if they really have no identity. The younger ones always end up having lots of drama in their life as well. I think having a big family is great (5 or 6?) but come on, shut your legs and enjoy what you have!

Just wondering if there are... (Below threshold)
Teri:

Just wondering if there are any twins or multiple biths in this family? Anyone out there know what the scoops are about them?

Thanks! Still think it is not right to have that responsiblilty for the older kids to take care and raise the little ones. Shame on the parents for sure.

Cotati, Ca

I just read in a previous c... (Below threshold)
badkitty:

I just read in a previous comment that they get $60,000 a year from the government and are goone make quite a bit of money off this show. Lets see, for being supposedly so self sufficent and able to provide for your kids, it's funny you're working the system and the american people

i believe they have one set... (Below threshold)
badkitty:

i believe they have one set of twins (the older ones), thats it. Possibly 2, don't quote me

don't worry jon and kate...... (Below threshold)
lois:

don't worry jon and kate................ i'll still watch your show

I cannot believe how many ... (Below threshold)
Howard:

I cannot believe how many people have jumped to the negative. First off they built thier house all of them pitched in,they DO NOT get assistance he owns a construction firm if I remember correctly and she makes most of thier clothes. I dont agree with having that many children but as long as I am not supporting them have at it. The comments just show how ignorant some people are but jump on the band wagon of hateful disrespectful attitudes. And as far as the Roloffs so what if thier house is a mess what family with 4 kids has a MARTHA STEWART piture perfect home. Get educated about a subject before you trash it.

I am a proud mom of the mag... (Below threshold)
Mother Goose:

I am a proud mom of the magnificent seven, the first six of which were born in seven years (no twins). My husband and I did not start our family until after we had both graduated from college and had established our careers. I became a full time mom after the first child and remain so, even now, even though my husband was killed in an accident last year, making me me a widow at 42. However, the most comforting thing in his passing is the incredible dynamic between the children, who have always been close. In his absence, they value each other deeply, and actually having each other to turn to in our time of loss has been, in and of itself, sustaining. The oldest children find it a joy to care for the younger children. And the younger children appreciate and love their older siblings deeply. It surprises me people find fault with older children helping to care for the younger children. Every morning the first thing my oldest children (15 16 17) do is come to my room asking, "Ok, where is he??"---looking for the littlest one--and our day starts with a lot of love. And instead of being "spoiled", the younger children are happy secure children who treat others as they are treated by their siblings, with respect and courtesy.
With adequate planning, it isn't difficult to be self sufficient, and not depend on the government for hand outs.
Don't assume everyone caring for a large family does so on the taxpayers coattails.
It simply isn't true.

I really don't understand w... (Below threshold)
Lisa:

I really don't understand what it is about the Duggars that offends so many. They are living on their own land, with their own money and raising their (very large) family. I've known several kids from really large families (10+ kids) and not one of them would trade it for the world. "I'm the oldest of 10" or the "third of 11" is one of the first things they tell you about themselves. Every one benefitted far more than they sacrificed being part of a large family.

oh I am way educated, i mys... (Below threshold)
badkitty:

oh I am way educated, i myself also live in a house of 10, includint parents, so unless you know it, don't make advice

I think it is amazing..and ... (Below threshold)
VALARI:

I think it is amazing..and the thing that amazes me the most is that all the children are perfectly normal and good looking. God must be smiling on them.

My father was one of 18 chi... (Below threshold)
Kathy Parker:

My father was one of 18 children. In my family there were 9 children, and in working on my family tree, it was quite common years back to have very large families. It was the norm, rather than the exception. I think it is wonderful and what an example of a family that, is a family, with love, discipline, and respect. I have seen the specials and am thrilled they will be on TV. Parents today may get a few useful tips. It is refreshing to see a family where the children are not spoiled rotten, demanding, and running the house with temper tantrums, etc. God has truly blessed them. I doubt is they will ever need the "take home nanny"

I am origianlly from the sa... (Below threshold)
Jan Alsup:

I am origianlly from the same hometown the Duggars live and have seen the family for years. They are real and down to earth folks. I praise them for their love and devotion to family.

They appear to be a wonderf... (Below threshold)
momof5sofar:

They appear to be a wonderful and godly family. It would be nice to hear about something so wonderful and uplifting on the t.v. for once. For all of you who are bashing them, shame on you. They're not prideful people. They obviously LOVE their children and do more for them than most parents. They believe in allowing God to control their family size so that means how ever many or how ever few. Play nice, they're not out to hurt anyone. If anything else, the world is a better place with people who are committed to their family, the only thing that will matter in the end aside from are faith are people. Why wouldn't they want more?

Everyone in this family app... (Below threshold)

Everyone in this family appears to be on the chunky side. At least our tax dollars are feeding them well.

I really like they Duggars... (Below threshold)
Cari:

I really like they Duggars. They are so loving, and I am fascinated with their ability to be self sufficient and debt free. They are always very loving.
We much prefer the Duggars over Jon and Kate.Kate is always so angry, and cruel. She hits her husband and tells the children "daddy is mean". That is so unacceptable.
We enjoy The duggar familys patience and love for each other. They truly value life.

I don't get all the comment... (Below threshold)
Twin Mom:

I don't get all the comments bashing the Duggars. I don't like or dislike them for their belief system and I'm not sure why everyone else cares either. They are contributing members to society unlike a lot of welfare, government-owes-me-something, affirmative action seeking low lifes. They are successful financially and this is what they have chosen for their family. Get over yourselves, commentors.

THEY ARE NOT ON WELFARE....... (Below threshold)
kelly:

THEY ARE NOT ON WELFARE....if you've ever watched anything about them you'd know this.

No Kelly, they're not on we... (Below threshold)
Kimberrly:

No Kelly, they're not on welfare...they're on the Church of the Holy Basement. They get money and tax breaks for being a "church" yet only their family and one other can be a part of it.

They don't MAKE people donate money but being a sideshow will make people feel they need to help.

Seriously, these kids frighten me. Especially since the daughters all talk about growing up to have husbands and make lots and lots of babies YAY! Free thought? OH they don't need that

Please, Please, please - ta... (Below threshold)
EvilKitteh:

Please, Please, please - take these idiots off tv! No one needs to see the abomination that is their litter of kids! I feel bad for those kids... you know they are not getting the individual attention that deserve when she's popping out a new baby every 5 secs. Damn... it's like the real life version of Monty Python's Meaning of Life!

WOW I can't believe what I ... (Below threshold)
Patsy Moylan:

WOW I can't believe what I am reading, first off most of you have no solid foundation for your comments... The Duggars are not on welfare, they are not a church- yes they applied to be considered one but their application has not been approved. Mr. Duggar is in real estate and aside from the home they live in he also owns rental property. His two eldest sons own a used car dealership and his eldest son Josh was married yesterday. They are not Mormon, they are Baptist. They have two sets of twins in the family. The oldest children are not "raising" the younger children, they are their "buddies" and anyone who has a large family or has grown up in a large family certainly understands this concept, it is nothing new! They are not asking you to accept their beliefs,or agree with anything they do. In this day and age where anything seems to accepted, where shows such as my sweet sixteen show teens as disrespectful, money hungry young people it is nice to see a loving, devout family.

For all you selfish judgeme... (Below threshold)
michelle:

For all you selfish judgemental people out there - SHAME. Shame on you for putting down such a strong independent strong nit family...i am appauled at your immature negative comments about incest and money. God made us to bear children incase you haven't noticed. And this beautiful family chose to give up their lives to reproduce and make a family which is all about gods will...Michelle is a strong lady who deserves a medal because i wouldn't be brave enough to bear 17/18 children and yeah that makes me a little selfish. I have five number six on the way and it's all about love, not dollars so congratulations Michelle i envy your inner self and beautiful hear and jimbob is amazing for being a wonderful loyal husband and yeah there are too many selfish people in this world who would't know the meaning of loyal or love for that matter. Gods presence shows in your life full of love and peace and thats what life is all about guys. Take a good look in your own backyard.

Look closely at the picture... (Below threshold)
Karen:

Look closely at the picture. One of the girls is missing from it. (The last young lady on the right is the one engaged to the oldest boy, not a sister)

Which girl is missing and why?

Thank God there is money to... (Below threshold)
Binks:

Thank God there is money to spend to produce these ridiculous sideshows. Jon and Kate Plus 8, 17 Kids (and My Uterus is About to Fall Out!), blah blah blah.

Oh my God, these people have sex (as boring as it must be) and then, through the sheer force of magic (not simple human biology) BABIES COME OUT OF THE WOMAN 9 MONTHS LATER! LET US GIVE THEM A SHOW TO TOUT HOW SPECIAL AND UNIQUE THEY ARE!

Oh and...Michelle? Comment 85? You're a moron. Nobody deserves ANYTHING for procreating, especially at this ridiculous level. Like it or not, having a family will come down to money, because you have to be able to PROVIDE FOR YOUR CHILD. If you cannot feed, clothe, or take PROPER CARE of a child, DO NOT HAVE ONE. These people are extraordinarily lucky they're able to make do the way they are; bravery has nothing to do with it. Pull your head out of your ass, and stop using God to force your poorly put-together and idiotic points.

I don't see what scripture ... (Below threshold)
Lucy:

I don't see what scripture or religion in general has to do with what men and women wear. It's utterly ridiculous that the Duggars dictate so strongly what their children wear. I also don't see the women in the Duggar family ever talking about college plans or career goals for the future. I think it is important that the children go to at least private school. If they are worried about "corruption" then they don't trust the values they have instilled in their children, nor their abilities as parents to provide guidance. For instance, I went to public school my entire life, had a 4.0, and didn't have my first kiss until I was eighteen. I was also not raised as a religious person and have only been to church a few times. My brother and sister are also quite exceptional. I think the resistance to the Duggars stems from the sheltering that goes on in their household. From the odd clothing to the lack of a real social life and parental trust (hello, what is with the chaperones)? This alienates them from the modern day world. The divorce rate has gone up in American society, but we live in a much more open minded world where women have more independence and do not feel the pressure to stay in an unhappy marriage for the sake of monetary dependence. (this and other contributing socio-economic factors). Also, kids today are no more "out of control" or rebellious then they were decades ago. Did you know that one of the highest records of teenage pregnancy took place in the 1950s? What I'm saying is, I don't care if they have 19, 20, 25 kids. Great. I simply think the children need more options in life (speaking mostly to the girls), personal expression (clothing), and more parental trust and exposure to the modern day world. Perhaps then people would find them more relatable.

i think theym are great par... (Below threshold)
Emily:

i think theym are great parnets and try so hard i wish i could me them to get to know how it really is with a big family

I can't believe their arrog... (Below threshold)
Sandy Daley:

I can't believe their arrogance. And I see this in a lot of Christians; nothing bad will happen to them because they believe in the 'Lord." Bad things are reserved for people who have doubt. I know parents who took excellent care of themselves and through no fault of their own had disabled children withing the first, second or third birth. But the Duggars think they can do no wrong...so they go on and on and on...having more babies with no thought that they may have a child with a disability. They are above it all, holier than thou, the Duggars.
And don't get me started on Jon and Kate plus 8. Why weren't the twins enough? No they had to take fertility pills again and 'whoa is me, surprise,surprise...' they had sextuplets. How'd that happen? They thought they were only going to have one? Bullshit.
I'm getting sick of it. I'd rather watch all the cosmetic surgery on E!

I can not believe how peopl... (Below threshold)
Tina:

I can not believe how people are bashing this family. This is a family that I wish I was like. They own rental properties, a cell phone tower, their home and are debt free. How many of you can say that!!!! I know I can't. I was a little surprized about the courting ritual, but I give them all the credit in the world.

First off, for the person w... (Below threshold)
Savannah:

First off, for the person who said that the last girl on the right is not a family member but the eldest's fiance- wrong. That is Jana.

To everyone else.
I don't think that they are really creepy. I enjoy them very much. Even coming from a small family, I can appreciate what they are doing. In fact, in light of most of the people I know, they seem somewhat sane.I can especially respect the Duggar's approach to modesty. I'm 17 and attend public high school- albeit in a small city in WA- but still, everywhere I turn, there's some MTV-wannabe in bottom baring jeans and cleavage baring tops, and they haven't even hit puberty yet. What the Duggar children wear is their choice and tradition. The girl's don't have to keep their hair long- it's just something that they like to do.On a recent episode of their show "18 Kids and Counting," the girls even discussed this. Case in point- Joy-Anna. Her hair is significantly shorter than her siblings. Her parents and family still accept her- it's not as if they would banish a girl from their circle if she decided she wanted to wear pants or cut her hair. My parents don't throw me out for keeping my hair long and wearing modest clothing, which is my choice. My mom can and does wear low cut tops and excessively low jeans, but I don't love her any less. Why should the Duggar's not have choice in what they wear? They can be modest, let the rest of the world be scantily clad. So what if (the now almost 18) children seem a little.. ok a lot out of the norm? Let them be.The Duggar's almost seem like people to look up to in the state our world is headed. Their religion is not completely whacky, they are resourceful and modest, and in fact seem like joyous people to be around. They are raising respectful, intellingent, humble individuals who will make the world better while populating it, if that is their choice. Again, let them be.


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