Monday, July 30, 2018

'First Comes a Wedding, Then Comes a Honeymoon' Recap

Counting On "First Comes a Wedding, Then Comes a Honeymoon"

    Josiah and Lauren's Wedding
    • As it kicks off, Lauren and her parents are over at the Duggar house looking at baby photos with Jim Bob, Michelle, and Josiah. "It just seems like yesterday we brought him home from the hospital," says Michelle.
    • The Duggars love Lauren and her family. "Lauren is very steady, which is good for Josiah," says Joy.
    • Josiah--eighth in his family lineup--and Lauren--the oldest of nine, including an infant brother--have known each other since childhood. But they didn't become serious friends until around the time of Joe and Kendra's September 2017 wedding. They were friends for a few months, followed by a six-week courtship and a four-month engagement.
    • The wedding day finally arrives. Lauren's father, Dwain Swanson, is officiating. "I have so much emotions wrapped up into this moment," he shares just before seeing his daughter in her wedding dress. "It seems like a lifetime of years from the day that she was born up to this very minute that I'm about to see her. I know she's beautiful. I know that it's going to be sweet."
    • "Are you ready to marry us?" Lauren asks her dad, beaming. "You better do it!" As the wedding ceremony begins, Lauren says she is as calm as can be.
    • Josiah and Lauren have eight groomsmen and eight bridesmaids. The groomsmen are Joseph, Austin, Jeremiah, Jedidiah, Jason, James, and two others. The bridesmaids are Jana, Kendra, Joy, Lauren Caldwell, and four others. Jordyn is a flower girl.
    • The mother of the groom and mother of the bride walk in together with Josiah, each wearing stylish, pink gowns that are knee-length. Josiah and Lauren recite wedding vows that they have written themselves. Click here to read them.
    • For protection, Lauren and Josiah decide to have Josiah keep the rings in his pocket, rather than trust someone else with them. Lauren announces that the idea was her. 
    • During the ceremony, the camera catches glimpses of John and Abbie, seated together in the audience. Looks like they will be the next Duggar couple to walk down the aisle.
    • After exchanging vows and rings, Josiah and Lauren are prayed over by their parents. The first kiss is long and beautiful, and then Josiah grabs a beaming Lauren in his arms and runs out of the sanctuary.
    Josiah and Lauren's Courtship Begins
    • Jedidiah, Jeremiah, and Jason say they have noticed a change in Josiah since he started pursing a closer friendship with Lauren, around the time of Joseph and Kendra’s wedding. “He’s a lot more glued to his phone,” says Jason. “A lot more deodorant. I’ve noticed the bills go up in that.”
    • Josiah says he was attracted to Lauren because she has a “head on her shoulders,” as she works through college. “She loves getting out of her shell and just encouraging others,” says Josiah. “There’s a lot of character there.”
    • The Swansons have just moved to Arkansas from out of state, so Jana, Jessa, Joy, and Kendra take Lauren out to dinner at MarketPlace Grill. “Y’all have really made us feel at home,” Lauren tells the girls.
    • Lauren tells the girls that she once had a five-hour video chat with Josiah. Jessa shares that her longest video chat with Ben was one hour, although they did have longer (unchaperoned) phone conversations.
    • The Duggar girls love Lauren. Jessa says: “She’s…very health conscious, which is hilarious because Josiah has a major sweet tooth, always has a stash of candy, and she’s always telling him, ‘That’s not good for you. Let’s make healthy choices.’ She really balances Josiah.”
    • During dinner, Josiah appears at the table, pulls up a chair, and asks Lauren an important question: “I was wondering if you wanted to go to the next step from friendship and maybe enter a courtship with me?” “I would love to, Si!” Lauren replies, and the two share a side hug.
    Joseph and Kendra's Honeymoon in Greece
    • Rewind a few months. After recovering in Northwest Arkansas from the craziness of their wedding, Joseph and Kendra leave for their honeymoon. Destination: Greece!
    • The newlyweds arrive in Athens and head to their hotel. The view of the city is incredible. On their first day, they visit Mars Hill, where the Apostle Paul preached a sermon.
    • Later, they enjoy “Dinner in the Sky,” a revolving restaurant attached to a crane that is suspended 165 feet above the city. “The views from the top were amazing,” says Josiah. Kendra enjoys chatting with another woman at the table.
    • On another day, Joe and Kendra embark on a food walking tour. They have trouble finding the meeting place and have to ask a local for directions. “I ask for directions probably more than your average guy, but I’m still a guy,” says Joe.
    • They successfully navigate the subway system. “First for me,” says Kendra, giggling. “Most things are. I haven’t experienced a whole lot.”
    • They try cheese pie and spinach pie. Joseph is more adventurous than Kendra with the spinach. Then they visit the meat market (where they see cow heads) and the vegetable market. Kendra loves the olives, while Joe does not.
    • With help from the guide, they pick up all the ingredients for a Greek salad, and then they put it together. “The biggest thing I learned is that there’s no lettuce in a Greek salad,” says Joe.
    • The lovebirds take a ferry to the Greek island of Santorini. “I think some of the things that I’ve learned about Joe have been that he’s a deep sleeper,” says Kendra. “He can fall asleep on a plane pretty fast. And, well he likes to lick his plate when it’s really, really good food, but I’ve asked him not to do it in public.” Joe says he is not the only one in his family who licks his plate and claims that Jessa is the one who showed him how. Of Kendra, Joe says that she enjoys sharing his food and that she becomes even more giggly when she’s tired.
    • “On our honeymoon, I learned that Austin cannot snuggle and sleep at the same time,” says Joy during an interview. “We snuggle, and then he has to be on his side of the bed to sleep.”
    • Jessa says she learned during marriage that Ben is very meticulous. He has been known to iron his t-shirts and jeans.
    • The resort that Joe and Kendra stay at in Santorini is beautiful. They have a blast driving the streets in a 4x4. “The gas pedal was a little jumpy at times,” laughs Joe.
    • At a black sand beach, they go paddle boarding, which is much harder than it looks. Both of them fall off multiple times before finally getting the hang of it.
    • Before heading home, Joe and Kendra explore the town of Kendra, which sits on a cliff. They come across some locals singing and dancing, from whom they receive kisses on the cheek in celebration of their honeymoon. They also take part in the “Opa!” plate smashing tradition.
    Vuolos' Date Night
    • In Laredo, Jinger and Jeremy take an art class, where they learn how to draw portraits of each other. “I was really nervous about the class because I was sure I was going to be out of my comfort zone,” admits Jinger. 
    • “It was a very great random person,” Jinger says of Jeremy’s portrait, but she doesn’t think it looks much like her.
    Seewalds' 3rd Anniversary
    • Back in Arkansas, Jessa and Ben share some updates. Ben is in his last year of school and is also working. In celebration of their third anniversary, Ben makes dinner (quinoa, steak, and salad) and watches the kids while Jessa gets her nails done with Jana and Joy.
    • Joy, who is about five months pregnant, enjoys feeling her baby kick while she sits at the spa. “I think it’s slowly sinking in that I’m going to be a dad,” Austin says during an interview. “When we hear the heartbeat, it’s like, ‘Wow, whatever it is is going to come out, and it’s going to be our responsibility.’ But I don’t think it’s fully hit me yet.” Austin has only ever changed one diaper.
    • Cooking while keeping track of Henry proves to be a difficult task, especially when Henry is missing mama. Ben is thrilled when his little guy falls asleep in his high chair.
    • When Jessa returns, the Seewalds enjoy their steak dinner. After the meal, Ben pulls out a necklace, featuring two hearts and three pearls, that he had custom designed for Jessa.

    257 comments:

    1. I feel like they tried to incorporate as much footage as they could in this episode. It wasn’t organized at all and the timelines were confusing.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. The should’ve done joys baby first few months instead of showing her expecting

        Delete
    2. Wow they really packed a lot in one episode. I really enjoyed it.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I hope the rest of the season is like this .

        Delete
    3. Joe has never eaten a Greek salad?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Neither have I🤷🏽‍♀️

        Delete
      2. They live very sheltered lives when it comes to food. Kendra too, apparently.

        Delete
      3. The North American version usually has lettuce. Traditional Greek Salad (village salad) does not.

        Delete
      4. The “Greek salads” they serve in the US are actually very different form the ones they eat in Greece.

        Delete
      5. My husband really is Greek we eat our Greek salad that way

        Delete
      6. I have never had a Greek Salad and I am not sheltered. We all grow up with different types of foods.

        Delete
    4. I don't understand why Josiah and Lauren's wedding was covered and then the courtship. Also why did Joy talk about her honeymoon in the middle of the segment on Kendra's honeymoon?

      ReplyDelete
    5. Thanks for the recap, I watched but I couldn't hear everything you mentioned. It's great that Lauren actually did attend college classes. Someone claiming to be a friend of hers had mentioned this before elsewhere, only to be accused of making that up because "everyone knows the Duggars don't let girls go to college, why would they let Josiah court one who did?"

      Seems Josiah actually is attracted to women who use the head they have on their shoulders and aren't just pretty faces; Marjorie also wound up going to college, albeit after she broke off her courtship. I hope this means Josiah will value her opinions in marriage, despite their marriage vows that emphasized Lauren being his helpmeet and cheerleader.

      It's also interesting how despite their public stances about deferring to their husbands and NOT disparaging them in public, so many of the Duggar women (and in-laws) are caught going against that on the show. Lauren was commenting on Josiah's unhealthy eating habits. Kendra mentioned Joe licking the plate and her negative reaction to that. Does that mean they're caught in an unguarded moment, or are they encouraged to do that by TLC to make the Duggars seem a tad more normal and relatable?

      On the other hand, maybe not, considering the talking heads segment on how ignorant the Duggars are about Greek mythology. (Love how Ben played dumb for the camera for a few seconds, then went on to showcase his knowledge. Most people think Ajax is a floor cleaner, not a Greek mythological character. He's obviously smarter than he usually lets on).

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I mean, Ben's sisters wear pants and have jobs (one is in the police, another one works in a salon): clearly they have different lifestyles.

        Delete
    6. Was sooo happy to see the previews of the younger ones.If I was a betting person, I would say that one of the twins get married before Jana,the boys are on a roll😉

      ReplyDelete
    7. Was sooo happy to see the previews of the younger ones.If I was a betting person, I would say that one of the twins get married before Jana,the boys are on a roll😉

      ReplyDelete
    8. I loved this episode. Going back and forth between story lines gave it a faster pace. Much more entertaining. Glad to see this!

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I also, liked the back, and forth, of the episode.

        Delete
      2. Same here. I liked the labels with each piece too.

        Delete
    9. Everyone looked great! Nice seeing the honeymoon with Joe/Kendra and how sweet Ben was with the 3rd Anniversary.

      ReplyDelete
    10. I'm still confused as to why the Duggars RUN down the aisle after they are pronounced husband and wife. Does anybody know the real reason? Is it a family tradition? An Arkansas tradition?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I think it is disrespectful to run in God's place of worship. It is also rude to do to your guests at your wedding.

        Delete
      2. I dont know. I know people that do it but they were not married in a church. Honestly, I find it odd to do a few things that they do at weddings including being barefoot.but I was raised in the south.

        Delete
      3. I hate it when the Duggars do this, Why do they run down the aisle? I wish someone could answer this question.

        Delete
      4. I think it depends on the area you live in. Personally we don't run down the aisle, but I have no problem with it. I don't consider it disrespectful by any means. I'm sure it's just a tradition.

        Delete
      5. It’s a building. The church gathers there to worship but there is nothing holy about the building itself, just the people in it. They were rejoicing by being silly together. An act of worship in itself. Guests are there as witnesses and support. This isn’t a party for the people you invite where you are expected to cater to their needs.

        Delete
      6. It may be a building, but most churches and cathedrals and temples are built to remind you that you're in a house of worship, not a gymnasium.

        Delete
    11. Sorry, I don't believe for one moment that Josiah and Lauren already knew each other for years. How could this be considering the fact that Lauren's family lived out of state all that time? It's just not likely. I think knowing OF someone is more likely but not knowing them, really, at all. This family confuses facts here and stretches them to suit their interests.
      On another note, a GOWN is not KNEE LENGTH. The mothers wore DRESSES to the wedding.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. They went to a lot of the same conferences, and on one of the 19 kids and counting episodes her family came over to their house for dinner, so they obviously knew each other more than just their existence.

        Delete
      2. While we're on the subject of gowns, did you see how some of those gown hems on the bridesmaids needed to be taken up? I think Jana and Anna forgot Rule #1 for dressmaking, hanging the nearly-finished dress for a day or two before hemming, especially when using soft or stretchy fabric. You have to hang the dress unhemmed for the fabric to relax and take its final drape. Only then can you fit it on the model and mark the hem, or you'll end up with an uneven hem or length problems. All that work to make a dress, and if you skip this one important step of hanging, your work gets messed up. It looks like that's what happened. I'm surprised some of those girls didn't trip on steps.

        Delete
      3. Anonymous 2:14 why pick apart their dresses, I personally didn’t focus on the length, we barely saw them the cameras stayed on Josiah and Lauren. Perhaps they were long to cover shoes that didn’t match. Of the entire wedding show the only thing you had to talk about were these gowns?

        Delete
      4. Agree, just because you know OF someone doesn't mean you know them. You don't know someone until you have some sort of relationship with them. Josiah and Lauren perhaps crossed paths and/or knew of each other since they were kids. They have known each other since last fall.

        Delete
      5. @ 2:14 I noticed that too. It was obvious something was off when they were all standing as a group in the church. I also saw a picture of them outside, with some of the hems on the ground! I went to a wedding where it had rained hard beforehand, and then the bride went outside to have pictures taken. When she got back in, the bottom of her dress was black from dragging on the wet sidewalks!

        Delete
    12. My husband and I have a rule. Nobody parents the other. Nobody says “let’s make healthy choices” to the other.Thats what a parent says to a child. If someone wants chip/dip or candy that’s their business. If one of us wants to run a marathon the other can join or choose not to. We support each other, but we do not correct each other. We are adults and can make our own choices. They keep saying Lauren is good for Josiah because she’s “steady” or has a “good head in her shoulders”. Sounds like Josiah wasn’t mature enough for marriage and found another “mother” figure. Their sudden friendship, courtship, and marriage felt very arranged. This episode did nothing to alleviate those thoughts.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I completely disagree with you, someone wanting their significant other to make healthy life choices is a good thing. And it’s sounds like Josiah persued Lauren, not like they were set up together.

        Delete
      2. That's a good reminder; thanks for sharing.

        Delete
      3. I would never let my husband make unhealthy choices without saying something. If he smokes or eats junk food and becomes obese, that affects me, too. Saying nothing is as bad as supporting it actively. I know this sounds harsh but I'll say it anyway -- when your obese smoking husband has a heart attack will you be happy with your choice to ignore what he was doing for years?

        Delete
      4. 8:15. I’m the OP. You have quite an active imagination to put it nicely. My husband has never smoked, is not obese, and has a very healthy heart. He does enjoy some some chip/dip and I’m the candy gal; hence those were the examples. We are both avid exercisers and enjoy training for runs ( again the marathon analogy). I stand by my own personal thoughts. No husband or wife should parent/correct/coerce the other to live by their ideas of healthy. It generally never works, but instead cultivates resentment. There’s a big difference between being an encourager and being a nag and food police. No thanks. He has a Mother. I’m not her.

        Delete
      5. Perhaps Josiah likes the sweet and strong personality type.

        Delete
      6. I would honestly divorce my husband if he took up smoking. I could never live like that.

        Delete
      7. I think male and female spouses can encouage healthy choices without harping on the subject. Have tasty healthy food available. Don’t scold. Nothing makes a spouse feel demeaned than that. Don’t drive them away with a “holier than thou art” attitude. Try and try again subtly. And remember - in the end, it’s their choice.

        Delete
      8. 8:15- So, what do you say to your unhealthy spouse and how often are you going to say it? If it becomes nagging, is that being supportive? If they don't address their bad habits, is that a deal- breaker for you and would you file for divorce? I am a senior citizen and if there's one thing I've learned, it's that people and life are very complicated. Not everything or everyone is going to fall in line with your expectations. You can make demands or encourage someone to make positive changes, but in the final analysis, that person must WANT to change.

        Delete
      9. Original poster was making a point that they are adults and should know what is and isn't healthy to eat. My husband is overweight and he does have some health issues. He and I made a pact to start eating healthier and going on more bike rides. He has started losing weight and is feeling more energetic and doesn't have acid reflux like he used to. It's important to not nag. If smoking was an issue, then better for him or her to quit before you decide to marry.

        Delete
      10. 9:12. Yes to this👏🏽👏🏽

        Delete
    13. Ben. Great job ironing, and being meticulous. Perhaps you can inform Joe licking your plate is not only gross, but socially unacceptable.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I think that’s what Kendra did lol I don’t really blaim him, if you grow up doing something and an adult never corrects you you’re not going to think it’s wrong

        Delete
      2. I was hoping meticulous Ben could teach Jessa to cook or clean, because she obviously doesn't spend her days doing that. What does she do? Coffee and manicures? It's starting to get more and more obvious and concerning.

        Delete
      3. 2:18, Jessa is a stay at home mom, which means she’s watching her boys 24/7. That’s not some easy breezy task, and since Ben recognizes that, that’s probably why he wanted to give the day to her to do something fun with her sisters.

        Delete
      4. Ben does all the work while Jessa hangs out? Sounds like a friend of mine. She dumps her kids at day care and goes out to lunch or does what she wants to do. I can see Jessa being the one who wants more freedom.

        Delete
      5. Being a stay-at-home mom doesn't mean you get a pass with the housework!!! You chose to have kids, so now you get to juggle two jobs - mom and housewife. Nor are you watching your children 24/7, especially with a husband who's home a lot, too. Those kids nap. Jessa could get housework done while they sleep. Don't you remember the show segment where she gave us a tour of her dust bunnies? Possibly not, because we've seen far more segments of her shopping, having coffee, getting pedicures, and hanging out at the main Duggar house.

        Delete
      6. 7:20, Jessa’s boys aren’t in daycare, she’s at home with them everyday, which, as I commented before, is probably why Ben let her have the day to herself, and then they spen the night together.

        Delete
    14. Ok. I’m having trouble wrapping my head around Joe licking his plate; and Kendra having to ask him not to do it in public. Honestly, did Michelle and JB parent at all??

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Hmm.. I don't think they said he does that in public. We all do things in private we might be embarrassed about.

        Delete
    15. TMI Joy-Anna. Your honeymoon “sleeping” situation with Austin should be private between the two of you.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. AGREED!!! Definitely not something that should be broadcasted...

        Delete
    16. I thought the wedding was lovely- Lauren seems so mature and articulate and Si certainly has grown. Michelle looked great! I confess I had to mute most of the honeymoon because that giggle got to be far too much but Joe looked extraordinarily happy. Very nice anniversary surprise from Ben.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I mention Kendra’s giggling in another blog spot. Is it nervousness in front of the camera or a constant habit, on and off camera? It makes it hard to understand her. I hope she gets more comfortable. Kendra is too caring and sweet to come across so annoying.

        Delete
      2. Lol...so I am not the only one who had to mute the giggling. I think she is just nervous.

        Delete
      3. Sometimes people's habits annoy me, too, but Kendra's giggle is not one of them. I think it is cute.

        Delete
      4. Even though she’s still giggly, I think she was a lot less then she was on past episodes. I think she’s getting more comfortable with the cameras, and soon she won’t be doing it all the time.

        Delete
      5. There was a TON of giggling, and not just by Kendra! It does get to you when there's so much.

        Delete
      6. As I recall, Anna used to giggle, although not nearly as noticeable. I'm sure as Kendra matures she will appear more confident when the cameras are near.

        Delete
    17. 3 Pearls means that jessa is pregnant! I hope iT is a gril. And likking is gross

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Or maybe 3 pearls for 3rd Anniversary

        Delete
      2. Nope, it was an anniversary present which took place in November, so for them to have even known they were pregnant at that time, would mean the baby would be due now. Ben said three pearls for three years.

        Delete
      3. Jessa and Ben's, 3rd Anniversary, was back in November. Thus, if Jessa had actually been pregnant then, she would have either given birth by now, or be very close to doing so.

        Delete
      4. The anniversary dinner was filmed in November 2017. Jessa would have already had the baby if she was pregnant when he gave her the necklace. Ben explained that the three pearls were for three years of marriage.

        Delete
      5. There anniversary was in November. If 3 pearls meant that she was pregnant then the baby should be almost due - or already here.

        Delete
      6. 8:13. That’s ridiculous. It’s their 3rd anniversary. More likely they will have many more than 3 children. 3 pearls for 3 years.

        Delete
      7. That was filmed back in November. She would be nearing her delivery date now, if she were pregnant then. Been clearly explained it was for their third anniversary.

        Delete
      8. She was not pregant at least during filming. We all no she could announce she is at anytime just like all the other married Duggar women.

        Delete
    18. Poot Henry he Shoud be in bed bot in a chair

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Please check your spelling before posting. And you must not have kids, if they fall asleep somewhere and it’s safe, then it’s best to just leave them there, especially since Jessa was out, and he seems to have a hard time without her there.

        Delete
      2. I know parents let sleeping babies lie and try not to wake them up, but I was worried Henry was going to pitch forward in his sleep and conk his head on the table. Ben could have lifted that chair off the table baby and all, carried it to the crib, and then transferred Henry to bed quickly.

        Delete
      3. 2:22, that would definitely have woken him up.

        Delete
      4. I have a feeling Henry has sleeping difficulties. I bet you anything he would have woken up crying and stayed crying for Ben if Ben had tried to carry him to the crib. So Ben did what he had to do to get the meal prepared.

        Delete
      5. Sometimes kids wake up for a moment when you put them to bed, but you just stand there and pat them and those eyes close again. Henry would have been safer and more comfortable in bed, or even back in his playpen in the living room.

        Delete
    19. It felt off watching Counting On without Jill. The dinner with the girls and Lauren, the trip to the nail salon... I miss her on the show, and even though it probably isn’t the case, it feels like she is being left out of these important bonding events.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Jill might have still been there at the dinner, but just not shown, which is what she and Derrick prefer.

        Delete
      2. I didn't notice her absence as much since she missed a lot of the bonding events and planning leading up to Jinger and Joy's weddings. The Dillards' scenes were largely separate from the rest of the family on Counting On since they were in El Salvador on and off for two years, so (for me) their transition off camera felt more natural than if Jessa were the one to stop filming.
        I do hope Jill is happy and doesn't feel left out. That it was the Dillards' choice to stop filming also makes it less of an awkward situation. I think there will be times we see Jill on Counting On, like when she attended Gideon's birth.

        Delete
    20. Jessa behaved like such a princess last night, no matter what scene she was in. She had all sorts of haughty comments to make about what her brothers or sisters were doing, and then she totally skipped out on their anniversary, leaving Ben to do ALL the work! What happened to "God first, others second, yourself last"? She's coming across as "Jessa first," period.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Umm, Ben probably offered to let her go do something fun with her sisters since she is home all day everyday with their kids. Being a mom is hard, and I thought it was extremely sweet for Ben to do something like that for her.

        Delete
      2. I kept waiting for Jessa to do something special for Ben, just as he did for her. It wasn’t Jessa’s birthday, for goodness sake, it was their anniversary - a day to celebrate together and honor each other!!! Completely one-sided. Jessa has always come across as spoiled and entitled, but that was awful.

        Delete
      3. I know, 3:46! What couple spends their anniversary apart, with one doing all the work while the other gets all the pampering and then the gift? As far as how being a mom is hard, this is what these girls signed up for, right from the start! I never heard them say "As many children as the Lord will bless us with, as long as I can still have enough time off for pedicures while someone else cooks and watches our blessings for me."

        Delete
      4. Uh, could be that whatever Jessa did just didn't make it onto the show. You do realize that not every aspect of their life is covered on these episodes, right? You may consider Jessa to be spoiled and entitled (I don't agree), but I'm sure you don't really think she didn't do anything for Ben's anniversary.

        Delete
      5. Jessa said Ben sent her and her sisters to get their nails done. He wanted to do something special for her. Obviously she is normally the one with the boys and cooking dinner, so he was giving her a break. We don’t know if she did or didn’t do something special for him that wasn’t shown. I think she has grown up quite a bit and seems more patient and kind than she used to.

        Delete
      6. Jessa probably wishes she could have dated a few guys before she settled down. She is probably feeling the rebellion she didn't get to express as a teen

        Delete
      7. Maybe not rebellion, 7:26, maybe a feeling of freedom that she never had, now that she has a husband who will take the kids off her hands whenever she wants, and do the other work for her. Even so, she seems to take advantage of Ben.

        Delete
      8. 7:26, WHAT??!

        Delete
    21. Why did the Swansons move to Arkansas?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Was it because of the Duggars or Lauren and Josiah’s wedding?

        Delete
      2. I don't know why they moved to Arkansas, but it was a beautiful new home they moved into. If I were Lauren, I would have wanted to live in there for a while, lol!!!!

        Delete
      3. I know! That was my first question! Why would a large established family do that?

        Delete
    22. I actually really enjoyed this episode, and feel like it answered a lot of questions, eg; Joe is doing the car sale business, Ben is in his last year of college and is working somewhere (which may be for Jim Bob, but see no problem with that, he’s not even out of college, I think a lot of people forget how young Ben is when asking if he has a “real” job)

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Yes Ben is young but he has two kids so it’s important to have a job. Plus, most 23 year olds are already college graduated anyway

        Delete
      2. 1:50, he was 22 when this was filmed, so now he’s 23, graduated and probably has a job. And he still had a job before, but it wouldn’t have been a permanent one since he’ll probably use his degree to get one that pertains to it.

        Delete
    23. Loved the woman's reaction in the sky crane restaurant in Geece, when Kendra told her that Joe was one of 19 kids. "Did the dad run away?"

      ReplyDelete
    24. Do the Duggars HAVE to act so clueless when outside the US? "It's all Greek to me." That was silly. Of course you're going to run into different languages and foods and customs in other countries. Go with it and learn something from it! You don't have to make a comment on how strange everything is, and did I hear Joe try to answer someone in Spanish??

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Like father like son. I remember when the Duggars were in Japan and Jim Bob alternated between asking (loudly) if anyone spoke English and saying Hola to one and all. My guess is most Japanese people don’t speak Spanish.

        Delete
      2. He corrected himself for that, and as for the “it’s all Greek to me” comments, that’s his sense of humor. It may seem corny to you but everyone is different, and Kendra didn’t seem to mind, so I don’t think it matters.

        Delete
      3. He said “si” 🙈🙈🙈I cringed

        Delete
      4. Jim Bob proudly spoke Spanish on one of their Asian trips a long time ago. He thought it was charming and cute. Michelle probably told him it was.

        Delete
      5. Yes. He said, “Si.” But that sounds like something I would do. However, I would apologize and quickly try to learn the word for thank you as it is a phrase you should use a lot.

        Delete
      6. I would have been embarrassed for him, but he corrected himself afterwards, and didn’t try to act like it was ok like Jim Bob did

        Delete
      7. I figure when you visit a different country, try not to act like an ignorant tourist. Learn their ways as you would want people from other countries who visit the state learn yours. However, I sometimes have to question the etiquette of some of our younger generation... eating tide pods, jumping out of moving cars to do a dumb dance..smh

        Delete
    25. I'm a bit confused. Previous episodes of 19kac and counting on, itbis made CLEAR that all Counting couples MUST have chaperones at all times including phone calls, texts (remember Jim bob and michelle were on group text with the courting couples) video chats, etc... and now, joy, jessa, jinger and Jill claim they had unchaperoned talking texting and video calls? Which one is it? It's no big deal either way but for as much as this family stresses accountability partners 24/7 (even for Jana and john David!) small things like that go completely against what the Duggars believe in and is a complete contradiction to the girls book they wrote.....

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Times change, people change. I think it’s a really good change. Couples deserve alone time, even if it’s on the phone to have real deep conversations

        Delete
      2. I think rules are getting perpetually changed and broken and nobody is giving the public the memo. What we need is an episode where they sit down and explain why there are such glaring differences now between what we saw and were told before. If they honestly said here's how we date and here's how we dress now, that would be good. But to go on with no explanations? Not good. Makes them look like they were deceiving us before with all that talk about strict rules.

        Delete
      3. They regularly change their views and values and don't feel a need to explain themselves to the viewers they've explained themselves to in the past.

        Delete
      4. Actually, the statement by Jessa that she and Ben had unchaperoned phone calls is included in the most recent edition of "Growing Up Duggar" that includes a "bonus chapter" added after Jill and Jessa got married.

        But I don't blame the Duggars for not addressing apparent contradictions, as their critics are likely to just accuse them of lying or at least spinning the truth no matter what they say. Multiple Duggars have stated that the couples set their own courtship rules, but I think even on this site, at least half the posters think that's just a Duggar PR attempt to make the parents seem less controlling of their adult children.

        Delete
      5. You must not have children if you are asking. Children challenge your thinking on things and sometimes they have a good point. I think the parents listened in for all early conversations. Maybe once they were engaged they let them speak privately.

        Delete
    26. So is Jess's pregnant? The necklace is kind of a hint

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Nope, their anniversary was in November, so if she had been pregnant then, the baby would be due right about now. It was their third anniversary, which was why it had the three pearls.

        Delete
      2. The necklace is for 3rd anniversary, it wasn’t that hard to understand

        Delete
      3. Three pearls for three years and two hearts for two people. I saw nothing "hinty" about it.

        Delete
      4. More likely it's a reference to the Biblical chord of three.

        Delete
      5. Ben and Jessa's Anniversary, was back in November. If Jessa had been pregnant then, she would have either given birth by now, or be very close to doing so.

        Delete
      6. I thought the three pearls represented their three years of marriage. I could be wrong.

        Delete
      7. No...the three pearls was for the three years of marriage, not kids.

        Delete
    27. Joe likes to lick his plate and Kendra has to ask him not to do this in public? Is it really necessary to have to ask an adult that?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. That is why you should date first

        Delete
      2. Eww!!! Just eww!! Did Joe eat on the floor with the dog? Because apparently that’s as far as his table manners extend.

        Delete
      3. I would be so humiliated.. I'd a guy I dated or courted did that in public, I wouldn't date him again

        Delete
      4. I just can't see a man regardless of how he was raised, licking a plate! Kendra will need to introduce some class to that guy ASAP!

        Delete
      5. 9:42, that’s taking it a bit far. You have to keep in mind that’s Joe was the 7th of 19 kids, and his parents probably weren’t paying much attention to him when he was a kid while eating, and when parents are present in their kids lives bad habits are formed and never broken

        Delete
    28. I enjoyed the first episode, I know they are way behind the times that just doesn’t Bother me. I liked seeing Joe and Kendra on their honeymoon, it looked exciting and fun. It’s nice to know that since these couples usually start their families right away that they take a trip of a lifetime to celebrate their new marriage. Jessa's and Ben’s anniversary showed us their commitment to a strong marriage, I like this couple they seem close and genuine. Everyone was having fun, enjoyed seeing the ladies out together with Lauren, no husbands in tow. While I had seen Josiah and Lauren’s wedding online there were a few scenes I hadn’t seen. A fun episode overall, I hope the whole season is this much fun!

      ReplyDelete
    29. I find it interesting that all the newlyweds ( with the exception of Jill and her husband) choose foreign destinations for their honeymoons. Let’s take Joe and Kendra as an example. They are obviously not very worldly even though Joe has travelled extensively with his family. Kendra has never been on a subway, neither one of them knows how to make a Greek salad, Kendra isn’t very adventurous when eating a spinach pie and Joe needs to be told to not lick his plate after eating.
      My question is this: do these kids pick their honeymoon destination themselves or is it decided for them? Given their naive ways wouldn’t they have been more comfortable in a familiar setting? Somehow I can picture sweet, giggly Kendra more at home in Disney World than Greece. It was made quite obvious in another one of those “let’s embarrass the Duggars” segments that Greek mythology wasn’t taught to them. The main reason I visited Greece was because of the mythology classes I took at university. I wonder what the draw was for Joe and Kendra

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Not everyone is interested in mythology, but for me the reason I would want to visit Greece is that it is stunningly beautiful and the food is delicious.

        Delete
      2. Josh and Anna also did not have a foreign destination for a honeymoon.

        Delete
      3. I never studied Greek mythology either (frankly, I don't see the point of Christians knowing all about the Greek's false gods), but Greece is at the top of my list for foreign countries to visit because of how beautiful it is! Have you seen pictures of Santorini or Mykonos? Personally I can't imagine going somewhere because I found their gods interesting.

        Delete
      4. Maybe they wanted to see Mars Hill where the apostle Paul spoke. They did go visit it on their honeymoon.

        Delete
      5. I’m sure the crew probably paid for it the more seasons the Duggar do the more likely they are to go somewhere far ..when the show first started back at 14 kids and pregnant again they didn’t do all this abroad traveling don’t get me wrong I would do it to or maybe they said where they wanna go to give us viewers a look at diff places like they did when the whole family traveled to London

        Delete
      6. If I remember correctly, Josh and Anna went to the beach. I don’t think the others chose their destinations but that TLC is now paying for the honeymoons and thus has a say in where they go.

        Delete
      7. I homeschool and our curriculum in the group includes Greek Mythology. I think it's important to know all of this even if it is not something we believe in as a faith. You never know when you may get the chance to visit these countries.

        Delete
      8. I thought they chose Greece for the Biblical history...

        Delete
      9. Do you realize how many of your English words trace back to Greek or Roman roots, including references to their gods? Of course you should learn about it! It's history!

        Delete
    30. I'm surprised the kids didn't know Greek gods when questioned. They should have ALL known that famous one named NIKE!!!!

      ReplyDelete
    31. If I went on a date with a guy who licked his plate there wouldn’t have been a second date. Just Yuck😬

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I would ask him if he had been raised by pigs in a sty!

        Delete
      2. 2:27, well if you think about it......😬😬

        Delete
    32. The way Joe was rapidly shoveling food in during the Dinner In The Sky part... Hasn't he been taught any table manners? That was hard to watch.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. He’s one of the older kids so he remembers the poor years where having food on your plate meant eating it fast or it’s gone. Remember Jill eating food in the pantry so she could eat quietly?

        Delete
      2. That probably comes from having 18 siblings, eat fast or it’ll be gone.

        Delete
      3. Perhaps he was hungry.

        Delete
      4. I have heard them say they had to eat fast as children to get enough food. That’s sad. If you have 19 children, prepare for 19+! so everyone can get a fair, and filling share. And teach manners related to eating!

        Delete
      5. This comment has been removed by the author.

        Delete
      6. Derick said Jill ate her food in the bathroom.

        Delete
      7. There's no reason to grab food now and wolf it down. It's lack of proper manners, plain and simple. If I saw my son do that on TV, there would be a discussion about it, no matter how old he was.

        Delete
      8. I grew up in a family of 8 so yes I had to eat fast before it was all gone!! I could only imagine a house of 19... I do remember the episode where Jill said she would sneak to eat in the bathroom because there wasn't enough food...

        Delete
      9. 11:42, try to have some compassion, when you grow up in a situation like that, there’s going to be some repercussions

        Delete
    33. I especially enjoyed Ben & Jessa's date night. It's always good when they film Ben & Jess & their kids. Also, Joe & Kendra's trip to Greece was fun to watch. I'm glad there was something besides the wedding.

      ReplyDelete
    34. Great show, really enjoyed it.

      ReplyDelete
    35. So what I took from the show, Kendra hasn't experienced anything (her own words) that made me so sad, shes nineteen and should be out experiencing the world not married with a baby. Does no one find it odd that not one girl in this family has any ambition past marriage and babies at a young age? No one could name a greek god or goddess? Greece is the cradle of western civilization, their ancient gods are part of their history and culture not to mention exciting stories, I guess they weren't taught about them in the Duggars homeschool. Joe licking his plate was totally gross and something only kids should do, I was glad to hear Kendra say she had asked him not to do it in public, at least they taught manners in the Caldwell household. The only thing that will keep me watching is to find out what Lauren studied at college, the rest of it was just boring/cringeworthy!

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Agree with you 12:52. All valid points.

        Delete
      2. My cousins who have university educations do not know ancient cultures or eat many foods beyond steak and potatoes. There are just thousands and thousands of people who choose not to learn about the rest of the world. At least many of the Duggars have chosen Europe for a honeymoon so they have a chance to see something and maybe be inspired to read when they go home

        Delete
      3. Anon @ 8:18 I think its sad that people are so closed off to other cultures and history. My love of ancient history started in primary school and continues to this day. I also find it sad that a young couple go to a country so steeped in history as Greece and don't bother to read up on some things before they go? Also I don't think they 'choose' to go, TLC pay for these trips so they can film, which makes it worse in my book as they are being handed such a wonderful opportunity on a plate, the least they could do is google some things. I am fairly sure none have picked up a book since returning from their honeymoons!

        Delete
      4. Greek mythology is not important to life. I learned it in school, and it has had no affect on my life whatsoever. Learning about God, the Bible and Heaven is way more important and will last for eternity.

        Delete
      5. Kendra is only 19... I haven’t experience a lot and I’m in my mid 40s everyone don’t have Duggar money I’m sure she was raised well nothing wrong with not experiencing a lot she not even 21 yet and she just got married give her another five years I’m sure her story will change

        Delete
      6. I agree. However I do think you can experience Greece without visiting there physically. The internet can be a wonderful tool and there are many wonderful authentic Greek restaurants here in the states. I would love to visit other countries but books and internet are an ok second choice :)

        Delete
      7. 11:00am, I find it interesting that you don't think learning about Greek culture is important, especially when you began your sentence with a word that comes from the Greek word "muthos" (myth) and the suffix "-logia" (the study of).

        Delete
    36. I do agree that the Duggars have deplorable manners. Have you ever seen Joy hold her fork? Ali TLC should stop asking questions to the others- aside from Ben they never know the answer and come across looking backward.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I agree, but sadly that's the whole point. Many people watch the show, and other Reality TV shows as well, NOT because they're actually fans of the people in them, but because they see them as entertaining "freaks" to laugh at, the way people used to go gawk at "freaks" in circuses and carnivals. But at least the people going to freak shows didn't usually hate the performers. In the Duggars case, a lot of people who follow them are haters, not fans -- even on this blog.

        Delete
    37. My take on the episode: Kendra is sweet but the giggling gets old! So glad she called out Joe about licking his plate. I almost gagged! I mean- really! The footage with Jana at dinner while the other girls talked babies & marriage, etc. was sad. Ben is really sweet& knows his stuff. The necklace was so sweet & he did mention 3 pearls for 3 year anniversary. Lauren is smarter than given credit for. I like Josiah clean shaven though. That’s all!! LOL

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. If I worked for TLC I would never have shown that kind of footage..

        Delete
    38. I liked how we were introduced to Lauren during the girls' night. She has a strong, confident personality and gets along well with her now sisters-in-law. It was great to see them all relaxed and laughing. I almost wish Josiah had waited until they got back to Lauren's house to do the courtship proposal. It would have been more private and Josiah wouldn't have had his sisters as an audience inches away from him. Plus, Lauren could have spent more time bonding with the Duggar ladies.

      ReplyDelete
    39. A married man licking his plate!!! Seriously!!! I know there are lots of kids in the Duggar family, but you can still teach manners. At some time they will be in social situations outside the family. I’m glad Kendra called him out on this, but the fact that his wife had to help him see right from wrong was appalling. Joe is so nice, but he really came across as an awkward, backward young man.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I must admit, while I find Joe and Kendra adorable as a couple, they came across as so naive and immature in this honeymoon episode, that it really made me wonder "are these kids REALLY ready to raise children themselves"? And made me rather sad that they're being married off and expected to raise kids, when they haven't even had a chance to grow up themselves.

        (BTW I don't feel this way about every young Duggar couple. Austin and Joy seemed much more prepared for the responsibilities of marriage, certainly Austin did, even though Joy comes across as a little flighty at times. Not sure yet about Josiah and Lauren.)

        Though I don't blame them for the "It's Greek to Me" jokes, it was pretty obvious the director coached them to crack those jokes. I wouldn't be surprised if they hadn't even come across the quote until the director told them "this is a popular saying about Greeks that show viewers would find hilarious for you to keep repeating".

        Delete
      2. It's easier to wipe your leftover food off your plate with a piece of bread, at least you won't get your face dirty,Lol...Jane

        Delete
      3. Lol maybe he should have went to charm school before marrying!

        Delete
    40. I'm a woman who is about Jana's age and still waiting on my husband. This time of waiting has really helped me to realize the immensity of marriage and how sacred it is. I'm really surprised at these quick marriages and also the broadcasting of the honeymoon. To me, that time is a private one and doesn't need to be shared with anyone except your spouse.

      ReplyDelete
    41. For all those people criticizing the Duggars about lack of knowledge about greek gods, you need to read what the Apostle Paul wrote about useless knowledge. He counted such knowledge and lost/dung(poop) for the excellent knowledge of Christ Jesus. Im sure the Duggar kids can learn but why, greek false gods cant save us. Im sure they can learn if they want to. FYI also: Kendra didnt attend Duggar homeschool, so your point is mute/lacking punch on the Duggars.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Nice defense of the Duggars, but it would be even nicer if any of them had actually been given a chance to explain that they didn't learn about Greek myths during their homeschooling because of their religious beliefs. I personally give them a pass for not knowing, but that wasn't TLC's angle.

        Most of the questions directed at the Duggars in these segments, remind of the "are you smarter than a 5th grader" type designed to make them appear ignorant at best, mentally challenged at worst. While I know it's not as easy as some think for the Duggars to just "move to another network", I am somewhat torn about the Duggars letting themselves be portrayed this way for the sake of show money.

        The show still provides viewers with relatively wholesome entertainment (though Joy's comments about "snuggling" with Austin in bed were pushing the envelope for family friendliness) and provide the younger Duggars much needed income, but if it ever was a true Christian ministry, it hasn't been for a long time.

        Delete
      2. I agree 100%!! Also the people criticizing the Duggars probably know very little about the only real God and His word -if they did have any real knowledge they would have known the fact that you pointed out!! Also Christian home-school children consistently out score all other children (private and public schooled) in testing and in college entrance exams.

        Delete
      3. I don't think anyone is calling on the Duggars to believe in the ancient Greek gods, but to have awareness of other cultures' history. You can be a good Christian and still be educated. One's faith isn't an excuse to be ignorant and unwilling to learn. Ben knew about Greek mythology and he is Christian. Kendra at least was enthusiastically open to new experiences.

        Delete
      4. I don’t agree that learning about theGreek gods is useless knowledge. The more you learn about other cultures, the more well rounded you will become and the less ethnocentric. No knowledge is useless in my opinion and yes, that includes algebra and knowing the difference between mute and moot.

        Delete
      5. They could have went to Israel

        Delete
      6. I am a conservative christian and I would have to say you are not making a very convincing point. Of course greek gods can't save us. Should one not study calculus because that won't save us either? The most influential Christians are those who have been given a liberal education (liberal as in classical/not modern day politics). I have yet to know anyone with knowledge of the greek gods/myths who were led astray from their faith. You used the scripture quote from Paul out of context as well. Paul was HIGHLY educated, making him a very good fit to proclaim the gospel to the people living in Greece! He stated one must make the most of every opportunity also to preach the gospel. You limit yourself to a very small circle of people to share the good news with if you don't understand the philosophies and cultures beyond your own.

        Delete
    42. Was the wedding part the same footage as the 2 parts that were posted here a few days ago? On Amazon, the episode did not show the wedding, only the beginning of the courtship, honeymoon, and Seewalds anniversary.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Great question. Yes, the wedding footage that aired last night was the same as the two parts that are on the TLC website (to which we posted the links a few weeks ago).

        Thanks for reading,
        Lily and Ellie

        Delete
      2. Great! Thank you for responding.

        Delete
    43. I really liked how TLC revamped this season. Getting to see several different couples all in one episode. I also laughed more during this episode than I have in seasons past. I liked seeing everyone drawing pictures on the dry erase boards especially! Kendra is such a sweet bubbly girl, she and Joe are so great together. Keep it up TLC!

      ReplyDelete
    44. I enjoyed the show it was great. I live the duggar family.

      ReplyDelete
    45. I'm glad Counting On is back on. I just wish they could be more relaxed on camera. So many conversations seem staged and planned. I enjoyed watching the honetmoon scenes in Greece. They felt relaxed, real, and fun.

      ReplyDelete
    46. The flow of this show seemed somewhat disjointed to me. And then to learn that Joe licks his plate? And, that nobody knew the Greek gods except for Ben and Jeremy? Sad.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. If I learned about Greek gods in school I have completely forgotten. Totally trivial and I couldn't care less.

        Delete
      2. Guess you don't wear Nike gear, 10:54. Similarly, the days of the week and the months of the year were named in honor of certain beings (gods) and things. Ancient history is not trivial at all. It's the roots of modern civilization.

        Delete
    47. While Jessa sometimes strikes me as trying almost too hard to remain relevant as a "main character" (and not just someone who's taken over the narrator role Michelle had in 19KAC), I actually loved watching her and Ben interact with each other on this episode. Not just watching their anniversary, but watching them interact on the talking head segments.

      They used to be very awkward with each other in front of the camera and I recall fans making the same "do they really love each other or are they just gritting their teeth and doing their duty" comments (at least where Jessa is concerned) during their courtship and even earlier marriage years that some have raised recently re Josiah and Lauren.

      So it was great to see the Seewalds being so comfortable joking around and being romantic with each other (and somehow managing to do both at once). I liked how they were the only "talking head couple" (whether married or sibling) to take the "portrait assignment" seriously and their portraits of each other were pretty good considering they were drawn quickly with a marker. (Though I'm sure some conspiracy theorists will claim some ghostwriter actually drew them...)

      And I love how Ben subtly mocks the interviewers during the "talking head" segments. Jeremy does it too but in his case it's obvious he's holding himself back from rolling his eyes and sighing. Ben manages to hold his own and actually be funny about it.

      ReplyDelete
    48. Ok I need your help. The manners commentary is completely on point. I have noticed sloppy manners before on this show and now the licking of the plate takes it to a new level! But here is my problem. My two teenage boys are the same! I have taught good manners since they were babies and we have done all the training but they still lapse-- all the time! I am still constantly reminding them to close their mouths, hold their forks right and to stop shoveling. So it's possible that the Duggars know what to do, but they just don't think about it "in the moment." Any ideas to help these poor boys? They won't ever have girlfriends (or any that last) unless they "remember" to improve.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Have you taken them to nice restaurants? Fancy events? Other poeple's homes, where they can watch good manners in action? Shown then Youtube videos of table manners? Sometimes they need to learn these lessons from someone other than "Mom," and you're right - a girlfriend scorning something they do might just be the ticket! I never stopped sucking my thumb, no matter what my mother said, until that "big mean" dentist said it ONE TIME, and that was all it took for me to be scared straight! LOL

        Delete
    49. I thought this episode was a great start to the new season as we got to see a little bit of all of the couples. Imagine how hard it will be to involve all the couples in one episode as more of the Duggars marry off!

      I have to say though that while I enjoyed the honeymoon footage (I'm Greek so I could read and understand everything) Kendra's giggling was just getting to be TOO much. To the point where it was super annoying and distracting from the scene. I'm pretty sure this comes from her youth and lack of maturity but the constant giggling is just irritating.

      ReplyDelete
    50. On the subject of manners, I recall from past 19KAC shows and possibly Counting On, of seeing several children standing on the kitchen counter and dining table with their shoes on. Shoes are worn on some pretty nasty surfaces, so standing on a table or counter where people eat with shoes on is pretty gross.

      ReplyDelete
    51. I no longer watch the show because I refuse to support TLC but it is good to hear about the Duggars and all that is going on!

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Supporting or following a show on TLC, even without tuning your TV set to it, is still supporting it.

        Delete
    52. I enjoyed Counting On episode, it was funny. I had a video malfunction of Josiah and Lauren's wedding,so I"m glad I got to see it on Counting On...Jane

      ReplyDelete
    53. We loved all of the show. We like the wedding of Josiah and Lauren. We loved the honeymoon of Joe and Kendra going to Greece. Can't wait for Jessa to have baby #3 possibly babies #3 and 4. Can't wait for John David and Abbie's courtship to lead to engagement/marriage/honeymoon. I would love to see all 42 family members back on TV. Natasha B

      ReplyDelete
    54. I have to post this here because I couldn't believe it.
      At this point, EVERY MARRIED DUGGAR OFFSPRING has admitted freely that they can FINALLY, NOW, really speak to their new spouse and learn about them. How is this something that is admirable by anyone? Wouldn't one think that it would be better and more wise to ACTUALLY, REALLY SPEAK to each other BEFORE marriage is considered? This puts the assumption and the rumors to rest for me that none of these people know their future spouse when they agree to marry. They know superficial things about each other but they aren't given the opportunity and the TIME to GET TO KNOW each other because they are never alone. No one, I don't care who they are, or what they believe about God or not, are truly themselves when surrounded by others. The couple NEEDS and should have the opportunities before marriage. None of this time or opportunity would or should include physical intimacy before marriage if that is what they believe. If a person is deemed mature enough to consider future marriage with anyone, shouldn't they also be mature enough and 'level headed' enough to know when to put on the 'brakes'? Yes, they should. These people don't trust themselves in any given situation in life. They truly believe that they need a guard standing by at all times. How is this realistic? It isn't. So sad that YES, they all have married strangers and find out 'what's in the box' after marrying it.What if they don't like what they discover? What then?

      ReplyDelete

    Thanks for leaving your comments! We answer as many of your questions as we can, but due to the number of comments we receive daily, we are unable to answer every one. Our aim is to post all points of view, but we do not post anything that is profane, insulting, derogatory, or in poor taste.