Happy New Year!

Wishing you a happy, healthy 2011!

~Lily and Ellie

Jed and Jer are 12!

Happy 12th Birthday, Jedidiah and Jeremiah! 

 

Do you know any twins? How do they celebrate their birthdays?

Jana and John's Mission Trip

Jana and John-David recently returned from a month-long mission trip to Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. "It was definitely eye-opening for them,' Michelle told TLC. "I think they came back with a more renewed service heart, looking for ways to reach out."

How did the twins' complementary personalities come out on the trip?

"[John-David] likes to work with his hands, and so, of course, he’s, like, 'We’ll go build them houses and help the ones that we can,'" said Michelle. "And Jana’s like, 'Well, let’s take them in and adopt them.'"

Video no longer available

One-Year Anniversary

Today is the one-year anniversary of the Duggar Family Blog. A big thank you to all of our faithful followers! 

Hope you all had a blessed Christmas!

~Lily and Ellie

Duggars' Christmas Rolls

We tried the Duggars' Homemade Yeast Rolls -- delicious. Definitely serving them for Christmas dinner! We didn't bake them in crescent shapes (we're just not that talented), and we didn't brush the tops with butter (they will be in the freezer until Christmas day), but other than that they are exactly like the Duggars'.
Give them a try!

Duggars' Homemade Yeast Rolls

Makes 16 rolls

 

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 packages yeast
• 5 cups flour, plus flour for kneading
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups hot water
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted

Directions:

1. Combine the shortening, sugar, salt, yeast, and 2 cups of the flour in a large bowl and cut with a pastry cutter.
2. Beat 2 eggs in a 2-cup measuring cup, then fill cup to the 2-cup mark with hot water; pour over the dry mixture. Slowly add the remaining 3 cups flour.
3. Cover bowl loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for 20 minutes in a warm oven. Then pour the dough onto a floured surface. Knead. Flatten with hands into a large pizza shape.
4. Cut with pizza cutter into 16 triangle-shaped slices. Roll up from the wide end to the point. Place the rolls in two greased 9x13-inch pans, bending into crescent shapes and leaving space for the rolls to double in size.
5. Let rise in a warm (but not hot!) oven at least 20 minutes. Remove from oven.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how brown you prefer. When done, immediately brush with the melted butter.

*To make this recipe healthier, Michelle Duggar suggests making one of the cups of flour whole wheat.

Have you tried these rolls? If so, what did you think? If not, do you plan on it?

Merry Christmas!

May your Christmas be blessed with the spirit of peace, the gift of hope, and the love of family and friends. 

The Duggars usually have 35-40 guests for Christmas dinner. How many will you be having?

Merry Christmas!

~Lily and Ellie

Jinger Duggar's 17th Birthday!

The Duggars must eat a lot of cake during the month of December because they have FIVE birthdays to celebrate!

Today is Jinger's 17th.  

 

Happy Birthday, Jinger! 

 

Jinger means "pep and liveliness," the perfect name for Jinger Duggar. Have you ever met a Jinger? How about a Ginger? 

 

 

Happy Birthday, Jordyn!

Today is Jordyn-Grace Makiya's 2nd birthday.  

Happy Birthday, Jordyn!  

Duggar Recipe: Homemade Rolls

Can you guess what the Duggars' favorite Christmas recipe is? It's not the mashed potatoes or the turkey. And it's not even the delicious pies they make from scratch every year. 

Any guesses? It's the rolls! And now you can make them for you Christmas dinner, too! 

Homemade Rolls

Combine the following 5 ingredients in large bowl & cut with pastry cutter:

1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. sugar
1 t. salt 
2 pkg. yeast
2 c. flour

Beat 2 eggs in 2 c. measuring cup. Fill cup to 2 cup mark with hot water. Pour over dry mixture. 

Slowly add: 3 c. flour

Cover. Let Rise 20 minutes in warm oven. Pour onto floured surface.

Knead. Flatten with hands into large pizza shape. Cut with pizza cutter into16 slices. Roll up from wide end to point. Place in greased pans leaving space for rolls to double in size. (can shape like crescent or lay on side where swirl shows.) Cover. Let rise in warm oven at least 20 min. Remove from oven. Preheat oven to 375F. Bake 20-30 min. depending on how dark you prefer. 

Immediately brush with 1 stick (1/2 c.) melted butter.
 

*Yields 16 Rolls in 2-9”x13” pans

Things to Keep in Mind:

*Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, not sticky. This should take about five to eight minutes, but the longer you knead, the fluffier the buns will be.

*To make this recipe healthier, Michelle Duggar suggests making one of the cups of flour whole wheat.
*Instead of shortening, we used butter. It all depends on your preference.

Go ahead and try this recipe out. We would love to hear your comments! None of the Duggars' Christmas guests leave their house without the recipe...that's how good it is!

Click here to visit our Recipes page.

What is your favorite Christmas dish? 

Link to the Radio Show Recording

Missed the radio show? Click here to listen!

Thanks for Tuning In!

Just got off the air with Nina Frye on her Living the Dream Mom internet radio show. Thanks to our faithful followers who listened, called in, and participated in the online chat! We will post the link to the recording soon.

We also announced the winner of our $35 gift card to CSN stores. It's Taly, a stay-at-home-mom of 6 precious little ones. Congratulations, Taly! You will receive your virtual gift card by email soon.

Look for more giveaways soon!

Radio Show TOMORROW

12 HOURS until radio show!

Tomorrow at 10AM EST (9AM CST), we'll be on Nina Frye's Living the Dream Mom Internet radio show. And this time YOU can call in and chat with us about anything Duggar. Why are you a Duggar fan? How have the Duggars impacted your life? 

To tune in, click here and follow the "Live On Air" link.

The call-in number is 1-877-864-4869. We would love to hear from you!

 

Radio Show Thursday!

Less than three days until we're on the Living the Dream Mom internet radio show with Nina Frye! Tune in this Thursday at 10AM (9:00AM CST).
When you're ready to listen, click here, and select the "Listen on Air" link (top right).

We will be chatting about the Duggars and Season 4 of "19 Kids and Counting," and this time, YOU can call in! Feel free to ask questions and/or share what makes you a Duggar fan. What speaks to you about the Duggars? How has this big family encouraged you? What have you learned from watching their show?

The call in number is 1-877-864-4869
We will be on for 30-40 minutes and would LOVE to hear from you!
If you're radio-shy, post your questions/thoughts as a comment so we can read them on the air.

If YOU Met the Duggars....

If you had 5 minutes with the Duggars, what would you talk about? Would you ask a question? Tell them how they've impacted your life?

Happy First Birthday, Josie Duggar

Happy 1st Birthday, Josie Duggar!

Josie Brooklyn Duggar has come a LONG way since she entered the world last December, weighing only 1 pound 6 ounces. From the hour she was born, this miracle baby has captured the hearts of millions. Let's see how far she has come in just 12 months....
Soon after Josie's emergency C-section, the Duggars relocated to Little Rock, where Jim Bob and Michelle had to balance their days (and nights) between Josie and the rest of their kids. Just before she turned four months, the preemie was sent home, only to be rushed back to the NICU a few days later. In June, the Duggars celebrated Josie's second homecoming, and the entire family was reunited in Springdale just in time for July 4th. When we spoke with Michelle several weeks ago, Josie was THRIVING.

These past 12 months have tested the Duggars' faith like no other situation they have ever walked through, but they never stopped trusting in God.
"We definitely are different people on this side of it than we were when we started," explains Michelle. "We're just thankful to be together again."
Want to see just how far Josie has come? Click here for a picture taken soon after her birth and here for a recent photo of her healthy, adorable smile. 

How has Josie's story impacted you and your family?

Names for Second Grand-Duggar?

Mackynzie's going to be a big sister -- Josh and Anna are expecting their second child in June 2011! (Click here for details.)

What do you think they should name him or her? Should they stick with the M's or go with a different letter? 
Post a comment, and you will be entered into our gift card giveaway! 

MORE Homeschooling Advice from Michelle

Now that we know what the Duggars use to homeschool, let's see how and why they have chosen home education:

What do the Duggars most like about homeschooling?
With 19 kids, homeschooling gives Jim Bob and Michelle great flexibility. They are able to take road trips, attend conferences, and embark on educational field trips. In addition, home education allows their kids to work at their own pace. They can whiz through lessons that they understand or take extra time on the ones that don't come as easily. Some of the Duggars have graduated early and are now taking classes and gaining hands-on experience in the fields that interest them. Jill is considering nursing, Jana is studying under a midwife, Jinger is looking into photography, Jessa loves teaching her younger siblings, and John-David helps Josh at his car lot and ran for Alderman in this month's election (he came VERY close to winning). John, Jana, and Jill recently became First Responders and joined the volunteer fire department.

How does Michelle motivate her kids?
The Duggars are eager to teach their children the value of hard work. When Justin completes a spelling worksheet in record time or Joy-Anna drills James on his math facts, Michelle awards them with a piece of sugarless gum or a small candy. The Duggars are obsessed with pickles -- believe it or not, some prefer a juicy pickle over a handful of mouthwatering Skittles.

How do you motivate your kids?

Homeschooling Advice from Michelle

Homeschooling just one or two kids is no easy task, but can you imagine homeschooling 19? The Duggars have homeschooled each of their kids since Josh was four. Do they have any tips to share? Of course!

What curricula do the Duggars recommend?
Once her kids learn basic phonics skills with programs like "Sing, Spell, Read, and Write," "Typing Tutor," "ACE," and "Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons," Michelle sets them to work at the computer with Alpha Omega's "Switched-On Schoolhouse." They especially love this curriculum (for grades three through twelve) because it weaves in Biblical principles and uses a mixture of text, colorful pictures, and fun videos.

What subjects do the Duggar kids learn?
In addition to the core subjects, the Duggar kids study law, medicine, and Spanish and practice character qualities. Many of the children play multiple instruments, such as the piano, violin, harp, guitar, or cello.

Final word of advice?
In an interview with Alpha Omega Publications, Michelle Duggar said that the most important tip she can give is to "have fun and just enjoy the gift of your children and the process of learning together...Not everything is going to go as planned, and you're going to keep learning a better way to do things as time goes on." As a new homeschooler, I change my routine more often than I change my socks because I am constantly discovering more efficient ways to get things done. It's good to hear a homeschool veteran say the same thing.

Come back on Monday for more homeschooling tips from Michelle Duggar!

Do you homeschool? Why or why not?

Everyone Loves a GIVEAWAY!

Everyone loves free stuff! Keep reading to find out how YOU can win a $35 gift card to CSN stores.

CSN is a chain of over 200 websites that sells everything you could possibly imagine: children's backpacks, futons, atomic clocks, waterbeds, cookware, exercise equipment, and so much more!

To Enter:

Comment anywhere on this blog. You may enter once a day -- each comment counts as one entry. Your comment(s) can either be about the Duggars or about what you would buy with your $35 gift card to CSN. All comments must include your first name and last initial or a Blogger username/pen name.

Optional Extra Entries: 

1. 1 extra entry: Become a follower of the blog, and leave a comment letting us know. If you are already a follower, please leave a comment as well.  
2. 1 extra entry: "Like" the Duggar Family Blog Facebook page, and leave a comment on this blog letting us know. If you are already a fan, please leave a comment as well. 
3.  2 extra entries: Blog about this giveaway on your blog, and leave a comment on our blog, including the URL of your post.
4. 1 extra entry: Become a follower of DuggarBlog on Twitter, and leave a comment on our blog letting us know. If you are already a follower, please leave a comment as well. 

*Include your email address in your first comment, or shoot us an email (DuggarFamilyBlog@gmail.com) signed with the name you post your comments under.

The winner will be emailed a $35 virtual gift card valid on any of CSN's websites.

CSN only ships to the US and Canada, and international shipping charges might apply to Canadian addresses.     

Contest ends Wednesday, December 15th at 10PM CST (11 PM EST).  
We will announce the winner on the Living the Dream Mom Internet Radio Show on December 16th.

Ready, Set, Go! 

"Duggars Speak Out" Recap

On last night's episode of 19 Kids and Counting, "Duggars Speak Out"...

• Michelle flew to meet the family in Louisville, Kentucky for a speaking engagement, leaving Josie in the trusted hands of a family-friend/nurse. Armed with a motion sickness band ("they are worth every penny") the mama of 19 boarded the plane, ordered a tomato juice (her favorite), and enjoyed some peace and quiet....until she the plane landed and she was reunited with her family.
• After arriving at Louisville's Southeast Christian Church, the Duggars were shocked to discover that they would be speaking to 4,700 people, their biggest crowd yet! And we understand that a few of you were there!
• Jim Bob was relieved to have Michelle by his side. "I don't think I could do it without her," he told TLC. Despite having 19 kids and starring in a reality TV show, he admits that he's not into public speaking. Good thing Michelle is! 
• After Mom and Dad's speech, the Duggar family orchestra played a beautiful rendition of "Onward Christian Soldiers," and the younger kids sang a jaw-dropping "I've Been Redeemed." The family then met the throngs of people in the lobby for a book-signing. Everyone, even little Jordyn and the camera crew, gave autographs.
• Being surrounded by thousands of people who would just love to stop and chat with you might be overwhelming for the regular Joe, but not for Michelle Duggar. She says that the most difficult part of book-signing is not being able to sit down and talk with each person she meets. "I like to connect one-on-one with people," says the mom of 19. "I just live for that."
• The Duggars reflect on 2010, a year of faith-testing challenges and exponential personal growth for the entire family. "We definitely are different people on this side of it than we were when we started," explains Michelle. "We're just thankful to be together again."

A brand new season of "19 Kids and Counting" will air in February, but until then, keep visiting our blog for regular posts about the Duggar family! Click here to enter our giveaway!

Do YOU enjoy public speaking? Are you more like Jim Bob or Michelle when it comes to crowds of people?

Another Radio Show!

Mark your calenders for December 16th! Nina Fry has invited us back to the Living the Dream Mom Internet radio show!
This time, we will be chatting with Nina about the Duggars and Season 4 of "19 Kids and Counting." And here's the best part -- the phone lines will be open, so you can call in and ask your questions directly! The show starts at 10AM EST (9AM CST).
Missed our live interview with Michelle Duggar? Click here to listen!


If you are "radio-shy" or won't be home, post your question(s) to the comments section.

Duggar Marathon and Season Finale

Tune in to TLC tomorrow (Tuesday) for a "19 Kids and Counting" marathon. It kicks off at 7/6AM CST with "Duggars Movin' Out" and ends with the season finale, "Duggars Speak Out," at 9/8PM CST. Make a ginormous bowl of popcorn (or two) and enjoy the shows.
The Duggars will return in February for a brand new season, but don't fret! There will be plenty of reruns in the meantime.

Tea with Michelle Duggar

Remember when Michelle Duggar won Mother of the Year at the Baby Conference in July? Now you can listen to her share about the joys and trials of motherhood in Vision Forum's "Tea with Michelle Duggar," a 60-minute video featuring one of America's famous mommies. Buy it now for $15, or put it on your list for the holidays.

Would you buy this DVD?

Duggars React to Second GrandDuggar

A Very Duggar Thanksgiving: Pumpkin Pies

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

~Lily and Ellie

Duggars and Sluggers

On last night's episode of "19 Kids and Counting:"

• Jim Bob and the kids loaded into their new bus and headed for Louisville, Kentucky to fulfill a speaking engagement and have some fun along the way. Dad needed more drivers, so he taught some of the older girls to operate the 45-foot long bus! Have you ever driven a vehicle that big?
• And Michelle stayed home. Here's her take on the situation: "I'm right where I need to be with Josie...It will only be a short period of time, and then we'll all be together again." 
• The Duggars stopped at the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, where they had the privilege of learning how the famous baseball bats are made. Although the museum welcomes nearly 250,000 visitors every year, Rick Redman, the tour guide, said that he has "never seen a family, and kids, more well-behaved and more attentive than the Duggars." Now that's a compliment!
• Next stop was Glassworks, where the Duggars saw glassblowing in action. Some of the kids even had the chance to try it themselves. But it was HOT HOT HOT (2300 degrees to be exact!) But their pumpkins turned out beautifully.
• Josie's favorite toy is the Jumperoo. "She'll just jump and jump...she makes all kids of fun noises," says Michelle.

Have you ever been to Louisville, Kentucky? Have you used a Louisville Slugger baseball bat?

Have a blessed Thanksgiving! 

~Lily and Ellie

Oops!

Turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, more gravy, sweet potatoes, stuffing, pumpkin pie...
Thanksgiving has taken over our minds! We completely forgot to remind you all about tonight's show! If you missed "19 Kids and Counting" Duggars and Sluggers, tune into TLC tonight at 12AM/11PM CST for a rerun. We will post the highlights tomorrow.
Green bean casserole, brussel sprouts, fresh-baked rolls with butter, pecan pie...
Are you hungry yet?

"Duggars Make a Movie" Highlights

Did you catch Sunday's "19 Kids and Counting" special, Duggars Make a Movie? Here are the highlights:

• After a short tutorial, the film crew handed their gear over to John (video), Jill (producer), and Jessa (sound). The Duggars' mission? Survive an entire week-long trip to Washington DC without the crew, while capturing enough footage (approximately 10 hours!) to create this episode.
• Jim Bob and the kids celebrated Michelle's birthday and then headed out. They were running on Duggar time: by the time the kids were rounded up and the bus loaded, they were four hours behind schedule. "Why aren't you on the bus?" John-David asked Hannie. "Cause I'm eating my Popsicle," his sister answered. 
• When can two pizzas satisfy the Duggars? When they're JUMBO pizzas! After visiting the monuments (Jason's favorite was the "Veterinarian Memorial, aka WWII Memorial), the Duggars stopped by a unique pizzeria for lunch. Joseph tore through two huge slices. According to Joy-Anna, "He's in his growth spurt -- that's why he eats so much." Turning to her 14-years-old brother who's just pushing five feet, she added, "It's almost Josiah's turn." 
• For dessert, the clan headed over to Georgetown Cupcake (the set of TLC's "DC Cupcakes").
• While the camera rolled, Assistant Producers Jackson and Johannah asked Mommy and Daddy questions like "What's your favorite color?" and "How much pounds do you weigh?" Needless to say, some of their questions went unanswered.
• After a quick stop in Tennessee to visit the Bates family and meet their 18th baby (Judson Wyatt), the Duggars headed home to celebrate Amy's 24th birthday. Amy's greatest fear is clowns, so what did Josiah, Joy, and Anna do? They added one more guest to the list: Stiltz the Clown! Amy was scared out of her wits, but she had a blast. It was a birthday she will never forget. 
• Jana, John, Jill, Jessa, and Jinger headed to Trailblazer Studios in Raleigh, North Carolina to watch their footage be transformed into a show. They enjoyed the experience but were thankful to return the gear to the crew. Filming is not easy, especially when your cast is a family of 19 children!

Does your family take home videos?

Sister, Sister

Jessa and Jinger Duggar are two peas in a pod. The two sisters, who are only thirteen months apart, have been inseparable from the day Jinger was born. They recently flew together to Chicago to attend a college music conference.
But as much as the two sisters have in common, they are also very different. When asked about Jessa's personality, Jinger replied, "She has an opinion, she'll tell you, in a nice way."
On the other hand, Jinger is not as quick to speak. "She might be more careful about how she says it," explains Jessa. "She doesn't want to hurt anybody's feelings."

Are you close with your siblings? Do you have a brothers or sisters that you really "click" with?

A Walk Down Memory Lane With the Duggars

Remember what life was like, back when the Duggars only had 16 little ones (before Josie, Jordyn, and Jennifer)? Tune into TLC tomorrow morning at 7/6AM CST for "On the Road with 16 Children" to find out!

Another Duggar Special!

Back by popular demand, TLC is playing another hour-long "19 Kids and Counting" special this weekend. What is Arkansas' busiest family up to now? They are making a movie! Being around cameras a few days a week has given some of the kids an interest in movie-making, so they are thrilled to have the opportunity to create their own show.
Tune in tomorrow at 8/7PM CST for this unique episode, Duggars Make a Movie.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

Michelle Duggar Goes Skydiving!

Imagine looking up into the sky and seeing.....Michelle Duggar?!
What would you do if your daughter asked to go skydiving for her 18th birthday? Would you freak out and tell her "Absolutely NOT," or would you give your consent (as long as you didn't have to be there to watch her jump)? When Jessa Duggar popped the question to her mom, Michelle not only said yes but even agreed to go with. This admirable woman sure has guts!

The plans were made, and Michelle and Jessa were pumped. Adrenaline rushing, the birthday girl took the plunge twenty seconds after her mom.
They had the time of their lives. "You step through the door of the plane, and then your stomach falls," Michelle told People. "When the parachute comes out, it is so peaceful. We are out in the Ozarks, and it is autumn. It is beautiful. It was a wonderful mom-and-daughter moment."

Have you ever been skydiving? If so, how was it? If not, would you ever consider taking the plunge?

"Duggar Daddy on Duty" Recap

On last night's episode of 19 Kids and Counting...

• Michelle and Jinger took Josie to the pediatrician for her well-baby checkup. Developmentally, Josie is thriving, but she caught the virus that made its way through the Duggar household. "Even though we were trying diligently to wash our hands and keep anyone out of the room, she manage to get it," explained Michelle. The doctor put Mommy's fears to rest when he assured her that Josie would be as good as new in no time.
• The Duggars are known for their big heads, and Josie's is no exception.
• Clear the roads! Josiah recently turned 14, the magical age that every kid in Arkansas eagerly awaits. Why? Because they can learn to drive! He studied like crazy and passed the written exam on his first try, so Jim Bob took him out on the road to put his knowledge to the test. Josiah is too short to see over the dash of the 16-passenger van, but Jim Bob came prepared with a pillow. Josiah did great, but he jokingly accused his dad of being a backseat driver.
• While Jana and Jill took the kids grape-picking and Michelle accompanied Jinger and Jessa to the dentist, Jim Bob babysat Jordyn and Josie. The highlights of the morning included Lincoln Logs and watching Jordyn give kisses to her baby sister. He did a fabulous job. "It's like Mr. Mom stepping in," said Michelle. "The kids love Daddy."

Do you remember learning to drive?

Duggar Daddy on Duty

Clear the roads! Josiah Duggar is learning to drive. Watch as Jim Bob takes him out on the road, but when they come home, Daddy is met with a challenge. He must look after Jordyn and Josie, all by himself. Think he can do it? We will see....
Tune into TLC tonight at 9/8PM CST for "19 Kids and Counting" Duggar Daddy on Duty.

ADORABLE New Picture of Josie!

Are you ready to have your heart melt? People magazine recently wrote an article about Josie, and the picture is cuter than words can describe! Click here to see for yourself.

How cute is this picture? Rank on a scale of 1-10 in the comments forum.  

Happy Birthday, Justin!

Bring on the cake because today is Justin Duggar's 8th birthday! 
Can you believe that Justin was just a baby when we first "met" the Duggars on "14 Children and Pregnant Again?" Time sure flies!

Happy Birthday, Justin!

"GrandDuggar First Birthday" Recap

On tonight's episode of 19 Kids and Counting, "GrandDuggar First Birthday"...

• Josh and Anna took Mackynzie to Florida to visit Anna's family, where Mackynzie took her first steps! They spend a day at the beach, and Josh learned to surf from Bill the soundman. He swallowed enough water to fill a fish tank but had a blast. Mackynzie's highlight of the day was eating sand. Mmmmm, tasty!
• Josh and Anna went with Anna's dad, a volunteer chaplain, to minister to a group of women in prison. Anna, who grew up helping out in her father's ministry, has learned the importance of being real and sincere. She told the ladies about the pain of her recent miscarriage. What carried her through was remembering to give thanks to God in all circumstances.
• Anna threw a huge party for Johannah and Mackynzie's birthdays, which are three days apart. The theme was Noah's Ark, and guess who was given the task of making a Noah's Ark shaped cake? Cousin Amy! Desperate, she called on Jinger for help. Both girls rarely cook, and although the Duggars have celebrated 284 birthdays, neither of them had ever baked a cake. But what looked like a disaster soon turned into a magnificent work of art. With the added touch of a colorful backdrop, courtesy of the boys, this was the best Noah's Ark cake I have ever seen.
• All the kids put on animal costumes, and the party began. "I was talking with Mackynzie a little bit ago," announced proud father Josh, "and she told me this is her best birthday she's ever had."
• But this won't be Josh and Anna's last time celebrating a first birthday, because they are expecting another child! How did the rest of the Duggar clan take the news? Some were speechless, others knew the announcement would come sooner or later, but all were thrilled, especially Grandpa Jim Bob and Grandma Michelle.

When was the last time your family celebrated a first birthday? 

Special "19 Kids and Counting!" Episode!

Can't get enough of the Duggars? Then tune into TLC tonight at 8/7PM CST for an extra-special, hour-long episode of "19 Kids and Counting" GrandDuggar First Birthday. Bring on the cake because Mackynzie Duggar is turning one! And there's more to celebrate....Josh and Anna are expecting! You won't want to miss this episode.

Come back to the blog after the show for the highlights.

Anna Duggar is Expecting!

You called it! Josh and Anna Duggar are expecting their second child in June 2011! "I showed Josh the positive pregnancy test on Mackynzie's birthday," Anna told People.
The young couple was thrilled for a positive pregnancy test after Anna's miscarriage this summer.
"I was very sad," Anna says. "Josh was a big encouragement to me. It helped us go through the heartbreak to learn that 30 or 40 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage."When asked how many kids they expect to have, Josh announced, "We'll be having 25." But he quickly assured everyone that he was only joking. He and Anna will welcome all the gifts the Lord has in store for them, whether that's two children or twenty-two.

Tune into TLC this Sunday at 8PM/7PM CST to see Josh and Anna make their exciting announcement to the rest of the Duggar clan!

How many kids do you have?

Silly Bandz

Have you seen those colorful, silicone wristbands that kids everywhere are sporting on their wrists? They are called Silly Bandz, and customers all over the world purchase them by the millions each and every week. One boy reported that he has 1,253, and counting!
And the Duggars have not missed out on this fad. Jackson and Johannah have quite a collection on their wrists! Have you spotted any other Duggars wearing Silly Bandz?
You can also purchase Faith Bands at Family Christian Stores, ChristianBook, or FaithBands.

Are Silly Bandz popular in your area? Do your kids wear them?

Highlights: Duggars Take a Dip

On this week's episode of 19 Kids and Counting...

• The Duggars love the water, so Jim Bob and Michelle decided to take them over to a friend's pool for some swimming lessons. The kids had a blast. They wanted Dad to get in on the fun, so they teamed up and pushed him into the pool, clothes and all!
• For an early birthday present, Jeremiah picked out a firehouse-themed chess set. (Do we have a future volunteer firefighter on our hands?) To date, Jeremiah has not lost a single game to any of his 18 siblings. "I beat everyone in my family, except the ones that quit in the middle," says the chess pro.
• Michelle spoke to a MOPS (Moms of Preschoolers) group at the First Baptist Church of Springdale on the topic of character qualities. Can you guess the top 3 character qualities that Jim Bob and Michelle teach their children? The first is attentiveness. "If I can't get their eyes, I'm not going to get their hearts," says the mom of 19. Number two is obedience, and the third is self-control. Michelle's final words of wisdom to the young mothers? "Turn your heart toward Jesus."
• Click here to download your very own copy of the tried-and-true list that Jim Bob and Michelle use to teach their children character qualities.

Do your kids like to swim? Have they taken lessons?

Duggars Learn to Swim

Tune into TLC tonight at 9PM/8PM CST for "19 Kids and Counting" Duggars Take a Dip. We have visited the Duggar home dozens of times, but we have never seen the kids learn to swim! And later, Michelle gives her tried-and-true child-rearing techniques to a group of women at a Mother's Morning Out. You won't want to miss this episode!

Will you be watching?

Josie Update!

Josie Duggar will be 11 months old in just 5 days! We spoke with Michelle Duggar last week -- Click here to listen to the interview-- and she was thrilled to report that Josie is thriving. She now weighs in at over 15 pounds!
"Josie is doing wonderful!" reported the mom of 19. "She is a miracle baby...Her brain, and her eyes, and her ears, and all of those important things are working perfectly." Her favorite toy is the Jumperoo, and she loves to roll around on the floor.

Did/do your kids love the Jumperoo?

A Very Special Duggar Birthday!

Today is a momentous occasion for the Duggars -- their 5th child is now an adult. That's right, it's Jessa's 18th birthday! Time to register to vote! Just 2 days shy of election day, but there will be plenty more opportunities for that in the future.
Happy 18th Birthday, Jessa! :)
Do you remember your 18th birthday?

New Look!

In the past week, we have been making some changes to the blog. We added the latest Duggar family picture at the top and posted several other photos on the left sidebar. (Scroll down a few strokes to see them.)

What do you think???

Close, But Not Quite....

John Duggar ran for Alderman of Tontitown in yesterday's election but lost by 60 votes to Mike Zulpo.
Great job for a 20-year-old! You have to start somewhere. 

Did you make it to the polls to vote in yesterday's election?

"Duggars on FIRE" Recap

Anna's Beautiful,
Custom-Tailored
Bridesmaids Dress

On last night's episode of "19 Kids and Counting:"

• Fans were able to see the Duggars' church fellowship in action. They meet in a vacant house with several other families for Bible study, to share a "pot-faith" meal, and to visit for several hours. "The food's usually one of the best parts," said Jim Bob, chuckling.
• Josh and Anna explained their thoughts on early education. They have already begun to teach Mackynzie because she enjoys it, and they know that it will set her up for success.
• "I am ready for another baby whenever God chooses to bless us with one," announced Anna, while Josh looked a little unsure.
• Jana and Jill needed uniforms for the formal, EMT side of the volunteer fire department. Anna, an expert seamstress who made all the bridesmaids dresses for her wedding, helped them turn unisex pants into skirts. 
• Jim Bob raved over his daughters' new outfits. He called them Mackynzie's "fire aunts." Hahaha!
• "Was more material leftover?" Jim Bob asked the girls. "I saw the little boys running around with some headbands."
• The Duggars explained that they are not judgmental in regards to clothing; it is each person's choice. 

What are your beliefs on early childhood education? Do you send your kids to preschool?

What do you believe regarding clothing?

Duggars on FIRE!

Jana and Jill have joined the volunteer fire department, and they need some fireproof clothes. But will Anna's "fire skirts" work, or will the girls end up wearing pants?

To find out, tune into TLC tonight at 9PM/8PM CST for "19 Kids and Counting" Duggars on Fire.

Vote for John Duggar!

Happy Election Day! The Duggars are on the edge of their seats this year because their very own John-David is running for Alderman! His ambition is to make a difference, and to those who say that he is too young, John says that everyone has to start somewhere.

What does John hope to accomplish if he is elected Alderman of Tontitown, Arkansas?
"If the economy is hurting, all the people are hurting," says John Duggar, "That's when the city should look at areas they can cut."

What is John's message to the people? 
"Just get out and vote."
And if you live in Tontitown, John would be honored to have your vote.

Another Radio Show?

Did you listen to Thursday's interview with Michelle Duggar? What did you think? 

How would you like to hear us on the Living the Dream Mom radio show again? We --Lily and Ellie -- would be chatting with host Nina Frye about the Duggars and answering your questions. Comment here to let us know what you think!

Missed the Interview? Watch It Here!

This morning, we interviewed the delightful Michelle Duggar on Nina Frye's Living the Dream Mom Radio Show! What a privilege! As we chatted, Michelle and her family were on a field trip -- a train ride for Joy-Anna Duggar's 13th birthday. You can hear the train whistle for proof!

Missed the interview? Click here to listen! 

We got as many of your questions answered as possible. We apologize to our faithful readers whose questions where not answered in the interview.
Thanks for tuning in!

20 Minutes Until Interview

Here are instructions on how to listen to the live interview with Michelle Duggar, this morning at 9AM CST (10AM EST):
Follow this link: http://toginet.com/shows/livingthedreammom
And click on the button at the top right that says "Live on Air, Click Here to Listen."

Hope you can tune in!

16 Hours Till Interview!

16 hours until we're on LIVE with Michelle Duggar! 

Tune into Toginet Internet Radio! 
Thursday, October 28 at 10:00AM EST (9:00AM CST)
We -- Lily and Ellie! -- will be on the Living the Dream Mom Radio Show with Michelle Duggar and host Nina Frye at 10:15AM EST (9:15AM CST)
Click here and follow the "Listen on Air" link at the top right of the screen.

Scroll down to watch a short YouTube for instructions on how to watch.

Will you be listening?

How to Listen LIVE to the Interview with Michelle

Two more days until we speak with Michelle Duggar! Hope you can listen. Scroll down to watch a YouTube video for instructions on how to tune in to Toginet on Thursday at 9AM CST (10AM EST)

"Duggar Day Out" Recap

On this week's episode of "19 Kids and Counting:"

• Michelle is recovering from her gallbladder removal. "Surgery isn't for sissies" says the mom of 19.
• To help out, Anna, Jill, and Jason took the younger kids out to expend some energy. It was Mackynzie's first time at a park! 
• Afterward, Anna and the older girls went thrift shopping. They got some good bargains -- 23 items for $30! 
• But buying clothes for the little Duggar girls isn't as easy as it used to be. Jennifer just turned 3 and is now picky about what she wears. And what do you think her favorite color is? Pink, of course! "I want pink, I want pink!"
• Anna is driving her dream car, the Hummer H2! It gets poor gas mileage, and Anna will be glad when it sells, but until it does, she is living her childhood dream. Despite the Hummer, Anna says that she and Josh are still Eco-friendly. "My baby has a cloth diaper on. You may be driving a Honda, but your baby has a disposable diaper." 

What did you think of the show? Are your kids picky about what they wear?

Tune In Tonight

With all the excitement of the LIVE interview with Michelle Duggar, don't forget to tune into TLC tonight for "19 Kids and Counting" Duggar Day Out. It's a chick outing with Anna and her sisters-in-law. Watch as they go shopping and out to ice cream -- two of a woman's favorite things! 

In case you haven't heard, we are officially inviting you to tune into Toginet Internet Radio for a LIVE interview with Michelle Duggar:

Michelle Duggar, LIVE on Toginet Internet Radio! 
Thursday, October 28 at 10:00AM EST (9:00AM CST)
Please tune in to Living the Dream Mom radio show, with host Nina Frye -- and us, yes us, Lily and Ellie -- as we chat with Michelle. 
Pour yourself a coffee, and join us! 

Michelle will be on with Nina for an hour, and we will be joining the discussion around 10:15 EST.
Click on the picture below to visit the Living the Dream Mom site.

Do you have any questions for Michelle? Please post them to the comment section of this blog post ASAP, and we will try to get them answered. This interview with Michelle Duggar on Thursday is a chat session, not a phone-in session.

LIVE Interview with Michelle Duggar!

Michelle Duggar, LIVE on Toginet Internet Radio! 
Thursday, October 28 at 10:00AM EST (9:00AM CST)
Please tune in to Living the Dream Mom radio show, with host Nina Frye -- and us, yes us, Lily and Ellie -- as we chat with Michelle. 
Pour yourself a coffee, and join us! 

Michelle will be on with Nina for an hour, and we will be joining the discussion around 10:15 EST.
Click on the picture below to visit the Living the Dream Mom site.

Do you have any questions for Michelle? Please post them to the comment section of this blog post ASAP, and we will try to get them answered. This interview with Michelle Duggar on Thursday is a chat session, not a phone-in session.

Michelle on Cravings

Pregnancy cravings. They can be as ordinary as strawberries, bagels, or chocolate and as off-the-wall as egg roles, gummy bears, or, yes, even toothpaste. I even heard of a woman who craves the taste of baby powder. I'm actually jealous of the one. If you were ever in an awkward conversation, it would be a great icebreaker. "My name is Jane, and I crave baby powder."
But back to the Duggars.....
So what does Michelle Duggar crave when she's pregnant?

"It's always pickles or lemons," the mom of 19 told TLC, "things that are sour or salty." So craving pickles isn't just an old wives tale. You've heard it right from Michelle Duggar, Baby Expert.

What do you crave?

"Duggar Diagnosis" Recap

On this week's episode of "19 Kids and Counting..."

• Jim Bob took his sons on an Alert Cadet canoeing trip for some good, old-fashioned guy time. Jedidiah is learning to do his hair like daddy's, hair spray and all. Like father, like son. 
• What happens when you put 90 Duggars in one room? Complete chaos and confusion. When Jim Bob and Michelle arrived at Duggar Family Reunion 2010, their conversations went something like this: "Jill?" "Jessa." "Jana?" "Jinger." The relatives then decided that Jim Bob's kids had to wear name tags. No ifs, ands, or buts about it.  
• And what's a Duggar family reunion without Amy? According to Jim Bob, she's a "ball of energy," and no family party is complete without her. 
• And how did Josie handle all this excitement? She stayed upstairs and was allowed to "meet" anyone who didn't have a runny nose. "Josie is a very social little girl," says Michelle. She smiles, makes faces, and just loves being around people.
• Several months after Michelle's gallbladder issues and Josie's premature birth, the mom of 19 started having pains. The cause? A large gallstone. Diagnosis? After consulting a specialist, she was highly advised to have her gallbladder removed. 
• "My thought is: 'anything that I have that I'm given when I'm born, I'd like to keep...it's there for a reason,"' explains Michelle, but she and Jim Bob hardly had time to think it over. Just a few days later, she was rushed to the hospital after experiencing extreme pain. Michelle Duggar has birthed 19 children and went through a traumatic ordeal with Josie that almost took her life, but she can honestly say that this pain was the worst she has ever felt. Period.
• There was no choice but to remove the gallbladder, and even though Michelle was released from the hospital after just 24 hours, her kids had to settle with air hugs for a while.

What did you think of the episode? Have you ever had a family reunion? What about a gallbladder removal?

Duggar Diagnosis

Tonight on "19 Kids and Counting..."
Michelle Duggar's gallbladder was the reason why she was admitted into the hospital last December, which led to Josie's premature birth on December 10th. Now, Michelle has just been told that her gallbladder is going to need some medical attention.
Tune into TLC tonight at 9/8PM CST for "19 Kids and Counting" Duggar Diagnosis.

The Duggars and Gender Stereotypes

Although it may seem like the Duggars are enforcing gender stereotypes, making sure their kids are well-rounded is very important to Jim Bob and Michelle. In TLC’s “17 Kids and Counting” Trading Places Duggar Style, the guys and girls swapped chores. While Michelle taught the boys to cook dinner, Jim Bob showed his daughters how to perform basic car mechanics. He even dropped them off at the side of the road to test their skills, and they passed the assessment with flying colors. Dinner was a little late though....

Click here to see what the Duggars have to say about College.
Josh and Anna Duggar now own two wholesale car lots in Springdale, Arkansas.
Jana and Jill recently joined the Volunteer Fire Department. Click here to read more.
Visit this link to learn about Jana Duggar's career plans, and click here for Jill's future goals.

Josh + Petroleum Jelly = One Messy Duggar Baby

Everyone has a messy baby story, and with 19 kids, the Duggars have quite a few.
Let's go back about 20 years. Back when the Duggars had an average-sized family. Picture Josh, about 2 years old, looking for excitement. And what could be more fun than, say, Petroleum Jelly??? So he sneaks into the bathroom, climbs onto the counter, and creaks open the medicine cabinet to seize the Vaseline. Opening the lid, he rubs it all over himself, into his hair, rolls around on the couch a few times.
Joshua is having a ball!
Until Mommy walks in.
Gulp.
But who can be mad when he looks so darn cute with his spiked hair? There's only one thing for Michelle to do....run for the camera!
And then spend the next week in the bathroom, scrubbing little Joshua's hair. Good times.....

Do you have a messy baby story? Or maybe you have several? We would love to hear them!

James Andrew

"Who is #13 in the Duggar family lineup?" Is it James or Justin? The Duggar lineup sure is a tongue-twister with all those "J" names. It took me a few tries (I confess that I had to use my fingers), but the answer is James (aka James Andrew). Thanks to all who answered! Look for more trivia questions in the near future.

The Duggar Lineup:

1. Josh  2. Jana  3. John-David  4. Jill  5. Jessa  6. Jinger  7. Joseph  8. Josiah  9. Joy-Anna  10. Jedidiah  

11. Jeremiah  12. Jason  13. James  14. Justin  15. Jackson  16. Johannah  17. Jennifer  18. Jordyn  19. Josie

20 Years, 300 Stitches

Over the past 20 years, the Duggars have had about 300 stitches! That's a lot of boo-boos.

About how many stitches has your family had collectively? Can you beat 300?

Trivia Question

Who is #13 in the Duggar family lineup?
I'll give you a hint: it starts with a "J."

Deep Dish Duggars

On this week's episode of 19 Kids and Counting...

•  Jessa and Jinger traveled to Chicago with Erin and Michaella Bates for a college music conference. Both the Duggars and the Bates are huge music families, so the girls were thrilled to be taught by college professors. This was the first time Jessa and Jinger went away on their own, but Jim Bob and Michelle knew they were ready.
• After the conference, the girls spend a day touring Chi-Town. And guess who joined them? Priscilla Keller, Anna's sister! They went Chicago style (on a double-decker bus). 
• The highlight? Stepping out onto a glass ledge on the Willis (aka Sears) Tower Skydeck, with less than 1/2 an inch of glass separating them from a 1,353-foot drop to the street. But don't worry - each balcony can supposedly support up to 5 tons, so the entire Duggar family could cram onto one ledge with no problem. (This is a situation where you really hope the builders knew what they were doing.) 
• Compared to Springdale, the Duggars' hometown, Chicago was quite different...to say the least. "Arkansas is so laid back," says Jinger. "Cow pastures, chicken farms....it's a lot different," explains Jessa. 
• And you can't visit Chicago without trying some of the city's famous, deep dish pizza. What better place to go than Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, a restaurant that boasts the "BEST Chicago-style deep dish pizza in the world?" 
• Back home, Jim Bob and the kids washed the Duggars' fleet of vehicles. Guess who is notorious for starting the water fights? Good ole Dad! 

 Duggars on the Skydeck's glass ledge!

Would you step out on one of the Skydeck's glass ledges? We have done it, and let us be the first to tell you -- it's scarier than any roller coaster or giant drop. It's even more frightening than walking down a dark alley at 1:00 AM, blindfolded.  

Photos compliments of the Willis Tower Skydeck. Click here to learn more about this unique tourist attraction!

Tonight: Duggars in Chicago!

Tune into TLC tonight at 9/8PM CST for the newest episode of "19 Kids and Counting" Deep Dish Duggars. Jessa and Jinger are traveling all the way to Chicago to try the city's famous deep dish pizza? Well, not exactly. They are going to a music seminar with Michaela and Erin Bates and will also be touring the Windy City. You won't want to miss this episode, especially if you have ever been to Chicago.
Back home in Arkansas, experience a Duggar car wash. No, the Duggars are not cleaning every vehicle in Springdale, just their own fleet.

Do your kids wash your family's car(s)?

Paintball - a Very Duggar Sport

Remember the "17 Kids and Counting" episode when the Duggars challenged the Bates to a ruthless paintball match (Bates vs. Duggars Smackdown)? Everyone who was allowed participated, even the younger ones. Later on, when asked if his daughters play any sports, Jim Bob Duggar mentioned that, in addition to Broomball and Ultimate Frisbee, they play a mean game of paintball.
Well this weekend on our camping trip, we tried paintball for the first time, and it was a blast! Some of us (not me, thankfully) got huge welts, but no one complained, and everyone had tons of fun.  

Have you ever been paintballing? Did you get welts?

Duggars Making a Difference

What's the latest in the Duggar home? Jana, John-David, and Jill are now certified First Responders, which means that they are authorized to perform pre-hospital care. And just recently, Jana and Jill joined John at the Volunteer Fire Department!
"They have responded to car wrecks and fire calls," says Michelle. "It’s just amazing. They really wanted to go out and make a difference in peoples’ lives. And just getting to hear those stories. When they get a call and they fly out the door, we’re praying." 

Does your area have a Volunteer Fire Department? 

An Early Birthday Wish

Turns out that the Duggar bios on the TLC website are wrong about Johannah's birthday. Thanks to one of our fans for pointing this out! According to Michelle Duggar, Johannah's birthday is actually on October 11th, but who would mind celebrating their birthday twice? Happy Early Birthday, Johannah!
But we can't forget about Mackynzie Duggar. That's right, she turns one today! Happy 1st Birthday, Mackynzie! Two cakes in four days -- lucky Duggars!

What did you, or what do you plan on doing, to celebrate 1st birthdays in your family?

A Very Special Duggar Birthday!

Today we are celebrating not one, but TWO Duggar birthdays, and they are not twins....
Johannah is 5, and Mackynzie is 1! 
Happy Birthday, Johannah and Mackynzie!!


Do you share a birthday with a family member or friend?

Duggars in Stitches

Here are the anticipated highlights of this week's very eventful episode of 19 Kids and Counting...

• The Duggars had the privilege of waking up at 4AM for an interview with the Today Show. According to Anna, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the sunrise because the Today Show is the only thing that gets them up that early. 
• Jim Bob and Michelle and their brood of 19 did an interview with Mike Huckabee. When asked about their secrets to success, Michelle Duggar replied, "Number one, you love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and then two, you love others -- you reach out and serve others." 
• Johannah visited a plastic surgeon to sew up a major boo-boo on her face, courtesy of a biking accident. She rode over a rock on her way down a hill and took a tumble. 
• Jim Bob shares his take on the stitches: "We figured a pretty girl like her, we need to do it right," said the father of 19, chuckling. "If it's a boy, we'd probably just let it rip as it is."
• Johannah, only four years old, stayed VERY calm during the procedure. When she returned home, she was looking for Jackson. "How bad is it, Hanny?" "Not as bad," replied Johannah, cuter than a button. 
• The Duggars went to a fair, where Josh and Anna took Mackynzie on the Ferris wheel. Daddy and Mackynzie loved it, but for Mommy, it wasn't fun at all. "I can do good standing on a chair," said Anna. "A ladder -- nah!" While on the ride, Josh told his wife that they were 300 feet in the air. With her eyes closed and head down, Anna replied, "Joshua, please don't give me numbers!" 
• When People Magazine came to the Duggar home to do a photo shoot, the makeup artist was quick to assure the boys that she was applying balm to their lips, not lipstick. ;-)

What did you think of this week's episode? 

Duggars in Stitches

Tune into TLC tonight at 8/9PM CST for "19 Kids and Counting" Duggars in Stitches. Just as the Duggars are gearing up for a media tour, Jim Bob and Michelle have to rush Johannah to the hospital! 

Have you or your children ever had stitches? If so, how many?

Michelle on Noisy Toys

What kind of toys do the Duggar kids enjoy playing with? Let's hear it right from Michelle:
"My children LOVE the noisy toys," says the mom of 19. "They love anything that moves, if it's something to sit on, ride on, skate around on."
But things were very different back when Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar had a "small" family (you know, only 9 kids).....
"We never really did a whole bunch of toys," explains Jessa. "Some of our favorite things were cardboard boxes and Duct Tape -- making houses or whatever -- and then play outside all the time."

What kinds of toys do your kids love? What did you like to play with when you were little?

Family Pictures: Summer 2010

 Jim Bob
Summer 2010

Michelle
Summer 2010

Jim Bob and Michelle
Summer 2010

Josh
Summer 2010

 Jana
Summer 2010

 John-David
Summer 2010

 Jill
Summer 2010

Jessa
Summer 2010

Jinger
Summer 2010

Joseph
Summer 2010

Josiah
Summer 2010

 Joy-Anna
Summer 2010

Jedidiah
Summer 2010

Jeremiah
Summer 2010

 Jason
Summer 2010

James
Summer 2010

 Justin
Summer 2010

Jackson
Summer 2010

 

Johannah
Summer 2010

Jennifer
Summer 2010

Jordyn-Grace
Summer 2010

 Josie
Summer 2010

Jim Bob and Michelle with Josie
Summer 2010

 

Anna
Summer 2010

Josh and Anna with Mackynzie
Summer 2010

Mackynzie
Summer 2010

Jim Bob, Michelle, and Josie 
Summer 2010

Josh, Anna, Mackynzie, and Johannah
Summer 2010

Joy-Anna, Jill, Jennifer, and Justin
Summer 2010

Jackson, Jordyn-Grace, Jana, and Josiah
Summer 2010

John-David, Jason, Jessa, and Jedidiah
Summer 2010

Jeremiah, Jinger, James, and Joseph
Summer 2010

Duggar Family 2010