Duggars Visit Fayetteville's Funky Yardsale

"Out of the two of us, Jana is definitely the one that likes shopping more than I do."
-Joy-Anna Duggar

In this extended scene, Jana Duggar and Joy-Anna Duggar stop by Fayetteville's Funky Yardsale to pick up a few small pieces of furniture to redecorate the guesthouse for Jill and Derick Dillard. While browsing, Jana, who is not known for being clumsy, accidentally knocks an item off the shelf and breaks it...

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Israel Reacts to Mama's Musical Performance

Back in the United States for the first time since last fall, Jill and Derick Dillard have enjoyed sharing new experiences with their son, who turns 18 months old next week. In this video clip, Jill pulls out one of her family's violins and performs the hymn "Fairest Lord Jesus" for Israel Dillard. He is completely mesmerized!

While in Arkansas, the Dillards are taking online classes and working with local mission organizations.

Photo/video courtesy duggarfamily.com

Ben Seewald's Football Camp

"Ben likes to play quarterback. That's his favorite position. It's fun to see him in his element."
-Jessa Seewald

Did you tune in to last night's episode? If not, be sure to read our written recap.

Ben Seewald's football camp turns out to be a smashing success. With help from Jessa, the Duggar siblings, and a handful of guys who have played college and professional ball (listed below), he is able to welcome nearly 70 kids. The final event of the day is a flag football tournament, with the "coaches" stepping in as quarterbacks (video below).

• Jeb Huckeba, defensive end, Seattle Seahawks

• Cortez McCraney, defensive tackle, Mississippi State and Baltimore Ravens

• Terry Spencer, offensive line and defensive line, University of Arkansas

• Reggie Jones, wide receiver, Kansas City Chiefs

• Spencer Brown, quarterback, University of Arkansas

• Steve Conley, defensive end and linebacker, University of Arkansas and Pittsburgh Steelers

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Recap: 'The Big Event'

Counting On, "The Big Event"

• To reach at-risk youth in his community, Ben Seewald plans a football camp for boys ages 10-14. He has several "coaches" helping him who have experience playing college and professional ball:
• Jeb Huckeba, defensive end, Seattle Seahawks
• Cortez McCraney, defensive tackle, Mississippi State and Baltimore Ravens
• Terry Spencer, offensive line and defensive line, University of Arkansas
• Reggie Jones, wide receiver, Kansas City Chiefs
• Spencer Brown, quarterback, University of Arkansas
• Steve Conley, defensive end and linebacker, University of Arkansas and Pittsburgh Steelers
• The day before the camp, the coaches and their wives meet up for dinner.
• Jessa's siblings help pack "swag bags" containing water bottles, Flame CDs, and Flame wristbands. The Duggar siblings also help out on the day of the camp. 
• "Our family is really good at assembly lines," says Josiah. "That's all we've ever done. Just passing food around the table takes forever, and the food is cold by the time it gets to you, so we've gotten away from that a long, long time ago."
• "We put so much work into this, it would be kind of hard to swallow if just a few kids showed up," shares Ben. He ends up welcoming close to 70 kids, and everyone has a blast. 
• "Ben is amazing," says Jinger. "He has such a compassionate heart and really desires to reach out."
• Throughout the day, the coaches share their testimonies and their sports trials and successes. 
• The Duggars don't usually play organized sports, due to their family's size and schedule constraints. But they do play a lot of "unorganized sports" with other kids.
• If the Duggars were a football team, who would play each position?
• Ben: "I think Mr. Duggar would be a good coach."
• Joseph: "My mom's got a pretty good whistle, so maybe she would be the referee."
• Jinger: "Josie would make a good water boy."
• Josiah: "I think Jessa would make a good referee."
• Jinger has been courting Jeremy Vuolo for a little over a month. They are planning a trip to New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey to meet Jeremy's extended family. Michelle, Jessa, Ben, and Spurgeon are coming along for the ride. Mama Duggar is really looking forward to meeting Jeremy's relatives.   
• Jinger doesn't know much about Italian food, so Jeremy's grandmother is going to give her a crash cooking course.
• "Our courtship is definitely on the fast track," says Jinger. 
• "I went and met Ben's family two months into our courtship, and then we courted for another nine months before we got engaged," says Jessa. "So meeting the relatives doesn't mean you're getting engaged tomorrow. Now, some people might be getting engaged tomorrow."
• Later, Jana and Joy make plans to renovate the guest house for Jill and Derick's return to Arkansas. "There's a lot of things I want to do with this house, but [I also want] to be frugal," says Jana. "My dad has taught us from the beginning, just work with what you have." 
• Jana hopes the Dillards will enjoy her new decorations. She says her style is classic, whereas Jill prefers "hippie" decor. Jessa calls Jill's style "earthy." 
• If Jana were a color, what color would she be?
• Jessa: Maroon
• Jinger: Lavender
• Joy: Yellow (Jana-banana)
• Josiah: "She would be something very practical [so] you can come by later and cover that up."
• Joseph: "She would be the perfect color."
• Jessa and Ben share an update on their son, who is learning to stand on his own. "Spurgeon is an easy baby," says Jessa. "Of course, as he's getting older, he's getting more of the personality coming out, letting us know who he is and what he wants, but that's a good thing."
• As the fifth-oldest Duggar, Jessa says she gave her parents "premature gray hairs," so she isn't expecting all her kids to be as easygoing as Spurgeon. 
• At the end of the episode, Jinger, Michelle, Jessa, Ben, and Spurgeon head out to the airport to meet Jeremy in Dallas. In Laredo, Jeremy packs his bags and makes sure to grab the engagement ring. Tune in to next week's episode for more!

'The Big Event' Sneak Peek

"Every time I go to see Jeremy, it seems like I get very little sleep the night before."
-Jinger Duggar

An all-new episode of Counting On is coming your way in less than four hours! The engagement trip has finally arrived, and Jinger and chaperones (Michelle, Jessa, Ben, and Spurgeon) are flying to Dallas to meet up with Jeremy (video sneak peek below).

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Tonight: 'The Big Event'

Are you looking forward to tonight's new episode of Counting On (times and summary below)? To get you in the mood, here are a handful of snapshots from the past two episodes ("Meet the Parents" and "A Big Surprise").

Tuesday, September 27
7:30pm ET/6:30pm CT: A Big Surprise Recap
8pm ET/7pm CT: The Big Event (NEW)
Ben hosts a youth football camp with a group of former NFL players. Meanwhile, Jana hatches a plan to redecorate the guesthouse Jill and Derick will be staying in when they return from Central America. And Jinger and Jeremy plan a special trip to NYC. 
11pm ET/10pm CT: The Big Event

 Jinger Duggar and her parents meet up with Jeremy Vuolo and his parents in Laredo, Texas

 Walking the streets of Laredo

 Jeremy Vuolo, Jinger Duggar, Michelle Duggar, Diana Vuolo, and Chuck Vuolo

 Jinger gives Jeremy a handmade gift (see next picture)

 With help from Jessa and Ben Seewald, Jeremy makes a surprise visit to Arkansas 

and meets up with his girlfriend at Tacos 4 Life

 Joy-Anna Duggar, Jedidiah Duggar, and Jeremiah Duggar soak Jinger and Jeremy on bumper boats 

 Go-cart race!

Jeremy and the four Duggars compete in a game of minigolf

Jeremy joins the Duggars for a meal

Jinger and Jeremy video chat with the Dillards, as Jim Bob and Michelle look on

Jill Dillard, Derick Dillard, and Israel Dillard enjoy catching up with the family

Photos courtesy DCL/TLC

New Photo of Josh and Anna Duggar

Eight years ago, Josh and Anna Duggar became husband and wife during a DIY marriage ceremony at Buford Grove Baptist Church in Hillard, Florida.

In October 2009, they welcomed daughter Mackynzie Duggar, their first of four children. Michael Duggar was born in June 2011, Marcus Duggar in June 2013, and Meredith Duggar in July 2015.

One month after Meredith's arrival, Josh released a public statement, in which he confessed that he had been unfaithful to his beloved wife. He immediately checked himself into a long-term treatment facility, while Anna and the kids moved in with Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar.

Six months later, the Duggars announced that Josh had completed his program and returned to Arkansas to "focus on rebuilding relationships with his family" and continue professional counseling.

Today is Josh and Anna's eight-year wedding anniversary, and it is the 13-month anniversary of Jim Bob and Michelle's announcement that Josh had entered rehab.

Many of you have been eager to see a new photograph of Josh and Anna, and the Duggars have finally released one (posted above). They also shared a short statement: "Happy anniversary, Josh and Anna. We are so thankful for God’s redemptive love in your lives."

Throughout this ordeal, Anna remained faithful to her husband. While she publicly shared the deep grief and betrayal that she felt, she never once talked badly about Josh. She continued to trust in God and be strong for her children, and she waited patiently for her husband to complete his program and return home.

We have been blogging about the Duggars for nearly seven years, and we know the family personally.
Seeing this picture made our day, and we hope it makes yours, too!

Photo courtesy duggarfamily.com

Duggars Quitting Reality TV?

As we approach the eighth episode of Counting On, season two, the tabloids are circulating a rumor that the Duggar siblings are quitting reality TV. Is it true? Not in the slightest. Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar's child have no plans to leave TLC.

On another note, be sure to tune in tomorrow at 9pm ET/8pm CT for an all-new, hour-long episode of Counting On, "The Big Event." Watch Ben host a youth football camp with a group of former NFL players, while Jana redecorates the guesthouse Jill and Derick will be staying in when they return from Central America. And see the early stages of Jeremy Vuolo's proposal, as he and Jinger plan their trip to New York City.

Photo courtesy TLC

Israel Orders His Own Meal

Israel Dillard is less than two weeks away from his 18-month milestone! For those who haven't heard, Jill and Derick Dillard are back in the States for an extended visit. They have been enjoying time with family, as well as preparing for two upcoming weddings.

Yesterday while at a restaurant with "Mima" (Derick's mom, Grandma Cathy Dillard Byrum), the Dillards ordered Israel his own meal for the first time. The little guy looks quite proud of himself.

Photo courtesy dillardfamily.com

Jana Duggar's Eye Makeup Tutorial

We know how much you all enjoy beauty videos from the Duggar gals! TLC just posted this eye makeup tutorial, in which Jana Duggar shows how she applies eye shadow, eyeliner, and mascara, using Joy-Anna Duggar as a model. Do you wear eye makeup?

Photo/video courtesy TLC

New Snapshots of Spurgeon

Spurgeon Seewald is just six weeks away from his first birthday, and in five months, he will be a big brother! Here are a few new pictures of little "Spurge"...

These photos are property of theseewaldfamily.com and may not be used without written permission. Click here to view the full photo album.

 Spurgeon Seewald

 Jessa Seewald and Spurgeon Seewald

Ben Seewald and Spurgeon Seewald

Spurgeon Learns to Rap

On last night's episode of Counting On, Jessa and Ben Seewald enjoy a visit from Christian hip-hop artist FLAME and his wife, Crystal. Before heading over to hang out with the Duggars, the Seewalds and their friends stop at a music store. Jessa and Ben look at keyboards, while FLAME teaches Spurgeon Seewald how to rap (video below).

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Recap: 'A Big Surprise'

Counting On "A Big Surprise"

• Jeremy and Jinger have been communicating directly for two months and have been officially courting for three weeks. Two days after Jinger returns from her first trip to Laredo, Jeremy arrives in Arkansas to surprise her. 
• Ben picks Jeremy up from the airport, and Jeremy asks Jim Bob to meet at White's Jewelry. "I really respect him," Jeremy says of his future father-in-law. "I respect how he's handled everything, and so I want to keep him in the know. I don't want to do anything behind his back. It is his daughter."
• The producer asks the Duggar siblings how soon after starting a relationship it is appropriate to buy an engagement ring:
• Jedidiah: "Three months, four months"
• Josiah: "Three weeks is really short. I would say that's way too short."
• "Honestly, I've been thinking about the engagement ring for a good few weeks here because it really has been a longer relationship," shares Jeremy. "It's been over a year since I've known her, and we've spent some really quality time..."
• As Jeremy enters the store, he informs Mr. White that he is "just browsing," but he ends up finding a princess cut ring that he absolutely loves. It also happens to be Jinger's size (5.5). "I really do like this one," says Jeremy. "I don't want to let it go."
• Before he goes any further, Jeremy sends a picture of the ring to his mom. "[My parents] love Jinger. If she could one day be my wife, I think they would be very happy."
• After much thought, Jeremy decides to request an appraisal of the ring. "I think I found the ring for Jinger," he says. "It really does scream 'Jinger' to me, and Mr. Duggar felt so, and Ben affirmed, so I think it's the one."
• Jim Bob thanks Jeremy for including him in the purchase of the ring. 
• Meanwhile, Jessa and Jinger head over to Tacos 4 Life. Jeremy and Ben plan to arrive after the ladies have been seated and bring their food to the table. 
• "It feels like we've been talking for forever, like I've known him all my life," Jinger shares with Jessa as they wait for their meal.
• As Jeremy and Ben walk up to Jessa and Jinger's table, Jinger does a double-take, and then her jaw drops open. "Jeremy!" she exclaims, giving him several hugs.
• Later, Jinger and Jeremy take the three graduates (Joy, Jedidiah, and Jeremiah) to an outdoor arcade to race go-carts and ride bumper boats. 
• "It was the most amazing surprise ever, having Jeremy come into town and spending a couple extra days with him," says Jinger. "I don't know, next time he visits, if he will have another surprise!"
• Christian hip-hop artist FLAME (aka Marcus Gray) and his wife, Crystal, come to Arkansas for a visit with the Seewalds. Ben, who has only grilled once, and FLAME, who has never used a barbecue, attempt to make dinner. Thankfully, it turns out well.
• The following day, FLAME and Crystal visit a music store with Jessa and Ben, who have decided to purchase a keyboard so Jessa can teach their kids.
• To bring FLAME out of his element, Jessa--who plays guitar, piano, mandolin, and violin--gives him a quick guitar lesson. The Seewalds don't end up buying a keyboard just yet.
• After leaving the music store, the Grays and Seewalds head over to the Duggar home to visit Jessa's family. The kids perform a gospel song for their guests. 
• When asked if they enjoy rap music, here's what the older siblings say:
• Jedidiah: "Not really. Poetry's alright.
• Jason: "Some people love it, just not me. It's not my style."
• Josiah: "I prefer more things that are just instrumental."
• Joy: "I don't think they use cello much in rap."
• John-David: "The only wrap I do is when I eat a chicken wrap...maybe like a turkey wrap."
• Before taking FLAME out to operate heavy machinery at one of Jim Bob's properties, Ben takes him to the family closet to find work clothes. (The family closet is now only used by the boys and the younger girls, while the older girls keep their clothing in their bedroom.)
• "I definitely would say that FLAME is outside of his comfort zone going to this job site," says Ben, as FLAME learns how to use a backhoe. 
• "FLAME actually did really well with the backhoe," says Jedidiah. "It's like playing a video game, so he was able to get that down."
• Back at the house, the girls give Cyrstal a tour of Jana's garden. "Jana defintely has a green thumb," explains Jessa. "She doesn't skimp. Anything and everything, that girl's growing it." The garden is very large and contains squash, zucchini, corn, watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and more. 

Jeremy at the Jeweler

Another week is underway, which means another new episode of Counting On! Tonight's segment is appropriately called "A Big Surprise," as Jeremy Vuolo makes an unexpected visit to Arkansas. But before meeting up with Jinger, Jeremy makes an important stop at White's Jewelry, the shop where Jim Bob & Michelle, Jill & Derick, and Jessa & Ben have all purchased rings.

Accompanied by Jim Bob Duggar and Ben Seewald, Jeremy ends up finding the perfect ring, but he's not sure whether he should purchase it quite yet, as the couple has only been courting for a short time (promo video below).

Also on tonight's episode, the Seewalds receive a visit from FLAME and his wife.

Tuesday, September 20, 2016
7:30pm: Meet the Parents Recap
8pm: A Big Surprise (NEW)
Jeremy makes a secret trip to Arkansas, but before surprising Jinger, he and Ben do some browsing for engagement rings. Then, Jessa and Ben give their rapper friend, Flame, a taste of Duggar family life. 
11pm: Meet the Parents

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Ark Encounter

Hello loyal readers! It's Ellie, coauthor of the Duggar Family Fan Blog. It's hard to believe that we're coming up on our 7-year anniversary in just a few months. It's always a pleasure to share the latest Duggar news with you all.

Many of you follow my personal blog (NashvilleWife.com), through which I share recipes, DIY tutorials, money saving tips, and much more. I want to alert you all of a post that I released yesterday about the trip that my husband and I took to the Ark Encounter, as it is very much Duggar related. (The Duggars have made multiple visits to the Creation Museum, the Ark Encounter's sister site.)  

Click here to be redirected to my blog. :)

Duggar Wedding Planning Trip

The Duggar ladies are on a wedding planning trip this week! For those who are wondering, Jinger Duggar and Jeremy Vuolo have not announced the date of their big day. Their guest list is significantly shorter than Jill and Jessa's, as they desire the moment to be shared only by family and close friends.

 Joy-Anna Duggar and Jinger Duggar (soon to be Jinger Vuolo)

 Michelle Duggar and Israel Dillard

Jana Duggar and Israel Dillard

Photos courtesy duggarfamily.com

Duggars & Vuolos Tour Laredo

"A lot of getting to know one another is deep conversation. But there's also a time to laugh. There's a time to go out and have fun."

-Jeremy Vuolo

We have another extended scene from last week's episode of Counting On to share with y'all...

Touring Laredo, Texas, with boyfriend Jeremy Vuolo, parents Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, and future in-laws Charles and Diane Vuolo is a memorable time for Jinger Duggar. The three couples visit a shop that "is like stepping into little Mexico," as Jeremy puts it. They browse through the wide variety of items and purchase Mexican candy.

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Duggar Gals Gone Shopping

Hope y'all are having a relaxing weekend! For those who have been asking for more photos of Anna Duggar, here's one that you will enjoy. These ladies are enjoying an afternoon of thrift shopping.

Anna Duggar, Meredith Duggar, Jill Dillard, Israel Dillard, Jinger Duggar

Photo courtesy duggarfamily.com

Seewalds Hang Out With FLAME

Another day, another Counting On webisode! On next week's all-new episode, Christian hip hop artist FLAME and his wife, Crystal, visit the Seewalds in Northwest Arkansas (video below).

"[We] have a lot in common as far as our faith goes," shares Ben Seewald, "And yet, the backgrounds that FLAME and Crystal came from are very different than the backgrounds that [Jessa and I] came from."

Missed this week's episode? Check out Thursday's blog post to find out how to watch it for free online. 

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Duggars Save Money on Car Repairs

"We work on a lot of cars. Something that a lot of people may not think that they can do by themselves is change wiper blades."

-John-David Duggar

In this Counting On webisode, John Duggar and Josiah Duggar demonstrate one of the simple ways that their family saves money on car repairs.

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Jinger Duggar and her 'Baaaaabe'

This extended scene is absolutely hilarious. We just couldn't resist posting it. When asked how many times she used the word "Babe" to refer to Jeremy Vuolo during her Laredo trip, Jinger Duggar guesses 375. The producer jokes that the one-syllable word becomes three syllables when Jinger says it.
 

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Watch 'Meet the Parents' For Free!

Did you miss Tuesday's new episode of Counting On? It's available for free on TLCgo.com! (Click here to watch.)

Photo courtesy TLC

Duggars to Adopt 20th Child?

Over the past few hours, several gossip publications have released articles claiming that Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar have been granted temporary guardianship of a relative's child. It won't be long before this information is all over the internet, so we want to give you the facts.

As of now, the Duggars have not made any public comments addressing the situation. Therefore, the claims that Jim Bob and Michelle are caring for another child and working towards adoption are only rumors at this time.

There are many loyal fans out there who would be thrilled to see the Duggars add to their brood, but we encourage everyone to grant the family privacy in this matter. When/if Jim Bob and Michelle make an announcement, we will share it with you all right away. For the time being, we know they would appreciate your prayers.

Photo courtesy duggarfamily.com

Jim Bob's Jokes

We're curious to hear what you thought of last nights episode of Counting On? As you can see from our recap, it was jammed packed with noteworthy quotes and happenings. Feel free to discuss in the comments section. 

In this video clip, appropriately named "Awkward Moments Around the Lunch Table," Jim Bob Duggar makes a few jokes to break the ice.

Photos/video courtesy TLC

Recap: 'Meet the Parents'

Counting On "Meet the Parents"

• Jinger has been courting Jeremy Vuolo for three weeks, and she is making her first trip to visit him in Laredo, Texas. Jim Bob and Michelle are traveling with her, and the three Duggars will meet Jeremy’s parents, who are flying in from Pennsylvania.
• “It always is interesting meeting the in-laws,” jokes Josiah. “You’re hoping you’re not going to be the outlaw.”
• At the Laredo airport, Jinger runs down the escalator and gives Jeremy, who is holding a bouquet of flowers, a big sidehug. “Everything that I’ve desired in a wife, I see that in Jinger,” shares Jeremy.
• Jinger gives Jeremy a nail art creation that she made by hand. It’s a slab of wood with Arkansas and Texas outlined in nails and connected with two hearts on a piece of string.
• Jeremy gives the Duggars a tour of his bachelor pad. They all agree that it’s a great place to start a marriage and raise a small family. The master bedroom even contains a king size bed. (Jim Bob jokes that the closet smells like dirty shoes, but he is still extremely impressed.)
• Everything is very clean, although Jeremy admits that his mom helped with that.
• Jeremy shows everyone a version of “Come Thou Fount” that he recorded for Jinger. The hymn is very special to the couple and will be part of their wedding.   
• “Jeremy and I have set our own rules for the courtship," shares Jinger, as Jeremy puts his arm around her while they sit on the couch.
• “I wasn’t aware of…how they have done previous courtships," says Jeremy. "But I guess having the arm around [the shoulder]…they haven’t done that in the past.”
• Jeremy says that the goal of courtship is to be intentional about getting to know someone and that it adds extra weight to the relationship.
• Later, Jeremy takes everyone on a walk around Laredo. When they enter a pawn shop, both he and Jinger notice all the rings for sale. "Now don't get any ideas," Jim Bob says.
• Jinger defends his remark: "My dad is not trying to slow the relationship down in any way. I think it's just emotionally hard for him."
• "I think Jeremy's a great guy, but we'll just have to keep an eye on him," says Jim Bob, smiling. "It's hard for Dad," agrees Michelle.
• During lunch, Jim Bob asks Jeremy about the crime level in Laredo. On the topic of sharing drinks, he jokingly says he doesn't think Jinger and Jeremy are "at the place to swap spit yet."
• They also visit Grace Community Church, where Jeremy has been preaching since November 2014. The building is a converted house and holds 40-50 people.
• Both sets of parents agree that Jinger and Jeremy are a match made by the Lord. "I think it's meant to be," says Jim Bob. "We will just have to pray about the timing."
• "I've prayed about that, and so, I can let you know what He says," Jeremy chimes in, laughing.
• "Mr. Duggar, we get married next month or I'm out," Jeremy jokes again. Jim Bob's response is: "See you later, Jeremy." Both guys enjoy cutting up with each other.
• Down in Central America, Derick is writing a sermon, which he does once or twice every week. It takes at least four hours.
• Jill invites ladies and their kids over to her home once a week. She always makes banana bread because her guests love it. Jill’s Spanish is improving, but she is glad to have the pastor’s wife to help with translating. Jill ministers to a lot of women whose husbands are not faithful to them.
• Back in Arkansas, John takes Joy out for her first flight license. Joy is considering working towards her pilot’s license so she can fly into remote villages on the mission field and also visit Jill and Derick.
• After John safely takes of, he allows Joy to take the controls for a few moments. "He was really calm, and when I was tipping us a little too far, he just kind of grabbed the wheel..." says Joy. 
• "I think Joy has what it takes," says John. "It's just a matter of whether she's willing to do it."
• The Duggar siblings call John a jack of all trades. He has his pilot’s license and CDL and also does contracting, firefighting, and law enforcement. 
• Jana heads up the preparations for Joy, Jedidiah, and Jeremiah's high school graduation party. They finished their high school requirements at different times, but they are sharing a party.
• "Homeschooling has been definitely something that I have loved and enjoyed, and I think most of my siblings would say the same," shares Jana. "I don't think there were ever those moments that I was like, 'Oh man, I wish I could go to school.'"
• The guest list for the grad party is more than 200 people. The Bate are among the attendees.
• Jed and Jer and five minutes apart in age, and their siblings say that they have a very close relationship. "That's the way they roll," says Josiah. "They're always together."

Tonight on 'Counting On'

Tonight on Counting On "Meet the Parents," Jinger Duggar--along with Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar--flies to Laredo, Texas, for her first visit with Jeremy's parents. Although she has chatted with them via Skype and telephone, she confesses in the video clip below that she is quite nervous to meet them in person.

Also on tonight's episode, John-David Duggar gives Joy-Anna Duggar her first flying lesson, and Jana Duggar plans a graduation party for Jedidiah Duggar, Jeremiah Duggar, and Joy.

The show starts at 8pm ET/7pm CT on TLC. Tune in at 7:30pm ET for an overview of last week's episode and again at 11pm ET for a rerun of "Meet the Parents."

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Michelle Duggar Turns 50

Today is the Duggar Matriarch's 50th birthday. Have a lovely day, Michelle! Hope all our readers enjoy looking through these snapshots.

Photos courtesy TLC, Scott Enlow, duggarfamily.com, Josh and Anna Duggar, dillardfamily.com, duggarfamilyblog.com

Duggar Snapshots September 2016

What have the Duggars been up to this month? Scroll through these snapshots to find out...

First off, here's a new photo of Marcus Duggar (three years old) and Michael Duggar (five years old). The plaque on the wall says: "Love one another as I have loved you, John 15:12."

This aerial shot shows Josie Duggar, Johannah Duggar, and Jordyn Duggar enjoying breakfast at the Duggars' kitchen counter over the weekend.

Football season has begun! During Saturday's game, Jessa Seewald, Ben Seewald, and Spurgeon Seewald rooted on the Arkansas Razorbacks.

During their stay in the United States, Jill and Derick have been spending time with family, assisting with preparations for Jinger Duggar and Jeremy Vuolo's wedding, as well as the upcoming marriage of Derick's brother, Dan Dillard, to Deena. The Dillards have also been taking courses and serving with local mission organizations. They recently chatted with international students at a University of Arkansas CRU event.

Seeking an opportunity to bond before Jinger's wedding and Jill's return to Central America, the Duggar sisters also took a short girls trip.

Joy Duggar, Jill Dillard, Jinger Duggar, and Jessa Seewald

And Jessa Seewald, who is four months pregnant with her second child, gave a haircut to nephew Michael. 

During a recent get-together with friends, three of the youngest Duggars (Josie Duggar, Michael Duggar, and Marcus Duggar) played a card game.

Photos courtesy duggarfamily.com, dillardfamily.com, theseewaldfamily.com

Cooking with Jana and Jessa

In this TLC webisode, Jana Duggar and Jessa Seewald, with help from Spurgeon Seewald, share a tutorial of one of their family's favorite recipes: Alfredo sauce with noodles. It's a meal they grew up eating, and it's extremely simple to prepare.

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Cousin Amy Mentions "Baby Talk"

Duggar cousin Amy (Duggar) King and husband Dillon King celebrated their first wedding anniversary on Tuesday. The couple said their "I dos" at Horton Farms in Gravette, Arkansas, last September and then jetted off to Cancun, Mexico, for a two-week honeymoon.

In an interview with PEOPLE Magazine this week, the Kings reveal that they have toned down their party life. Amy says that she and Dillon have "switched out from nights on the town to sweatpants and a movie."

The couple also shares a statement that will surely cause excitement among Amy's 19 cousins:

"Our first year has been really fun. Our goals for next year are to travel the world and fall further in love with each other! Who knows? There might even be some baby talk."

Joy-Anna the Fisherwoman

 "When they asked for people to cut up the snake, I was like, 'Why not?' I mean, you might as well go all in on this thing."
-Joy-Anna Duggar

While learning how to fish using survival traps, the Duggar siblings share the experience they have had with the sport. "I've done some fishing," shares John-David Duggar. "I'm not like a big fisherman." And Joy surprises everyone as she fearlessly cuts open a snake to use as bait (see video below). Could you see yourself doing that?

Photo/video courtesy TLC

Dillards Discuss Family Plans

In this clip from last night's show, Jill and Derick Dillard dress up for a fancy dinner at a Central American resort, where they are celebrating their two-year wedding anniversary. While trying to keep Israel happy, the Dillards enjoy a delicious meal and discuss their roles for the upcoming year. Both agree that they would love to have another child. The Dillards also exchange letters that they wrote for each other.

Photo/video courtesy TLC