In the recent episode of Bringing Up Bates, Chad and Erin went out on a date with Brandon and Michaella to talk about their relationship. Chad and Erin walked down memory lane on their relationship.
Click this link: Chad and Erin with Brandon and Michella
Welcome to the Bates family blog! Gil and Kelly have been married since 1987 and have nineteen children. Twelve of their children have been married. They have thirty-two grandchildren. They have four children and eight grandchildren in heaven.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
All about Bradley: Four months old!
We will see you next month for his 5th months of life update!
Friday, February 27, 2015
Baby Paine's gender reveal!
The
wait is over almost to find out the gender of Baby Paine. We only have
to wait until Thursday, March 5th, for the big reveal!
Leave a comment down below if you think the baby is a girl or a boy!
Alyssa's pregnancy: 34 weeks pregnant!
John and Alyssa are 34 weeks pregnant with their first child. We only have 6 more weeks until Allie arrives!
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Alyssa's blog: On the Outside Looking In
I didn’t get to enjoy Brandon’s visit with the family, but it brought back memories of bringing John to my parent’s house for visits! It probably is a culture shock for a lot of guys, especially if they’re from a quiet, more reserved background. The moment they step into our home they have ten little hands pulling them over and asking to read a book or play! They have older boys tugging them to play basketball or football. They have a host of giggly girls peering on all sides hoping to listen to the courting conversations! It’s loud and crazy and busy, but I don’t think anyone leaves without feeling like there’s a big bunch of kids that love them! I’m glad I’m from a big family, and although there are crazy experiences that result from that setting, it made life fun and exciting! There are no secrets in our house, nor is there a lack of opinions and the new guy on the scene gets to hear them all!! I’m sure Brandon’s time with the family will be an unforgettable one!
Lawson's blog: Bates Brothers Security
Well, Nathan and I have gotten the reputation of being the ones that make it hard on the guys! We have to keep up that reputation, ’cause we aren’t gonna let our sisters just be handed out to any old guy! He’s got to meet our approval, cause in our opinion, they deserve the best! So, yeah, I guess we do kind of put guys through the grill! Brandon passed, but we’re still trying to use our brotherly persuasion to talk him into moving to Tennessee! He didn’t seem to stressed by our high pressure routine, his laid back personality earned him some brownie points with all of us! We had a great time just hanging with the guys, although we might not lighten up on him too much, we can certainly say he’s acing with flying colors!
Erin's blog: Courting
This is such a sweet show, because for me it brings back so many memories from my own courting days. Brandon’s visit to Tennessee was a great opportunity for all of us to get to know him on a more personal level. He is full of jokes and surprises, and he already feels like part of the family. It is such a joy to watch my sister’s dreams come true. As we’ve watched their relationship blossom, we anticipate the day that Brandon will pop the question!
Zach's blog: Michaella Goes a Courtin’
I was so glad that Brandon was able to spend a few weeks with the family. I know how important it is to establish strong relationships with family members and that takes time and involvement. It was a little easier for me and Whitney, because she lived close by and we were able to get together with family members often. On Brandon’s case, living far away doesn’t allow as many opportunities to bond, and often on visits the focus is naturally to spend time with Michael. So I think it was wise for my parents to an a trip just for the purpose of giving time for him to spend time with the rest of the family. Once he gets married, they are likely to move, so this time together will be treasured memories.
Kelly's blog: House Rules
We encourage our children to bring friends to our house, because we like to be involved in their lives. We think fellowship that happens in family settings gives young people a safe haven to get to know each other and to enjoy each other’s company. We especially enjoy spending time with someone that is involved in a courtship with one of our children, because it offers some bonding time with the rest of the family that will establish long lasting relationships once married.
We do set up some rules, as we shared in the show. One is that boys and girls are not allowed in a room together alone. This just establishes some wise boundaries, plus allows some space for a visitor who might not be used to 20 sets of eyeballs staring at them 24/7!
With Brandon, we wanted him to see all areas of our life from work to play to long talks and walks. We wanted him to have bonding time with each age group, because we want him to feel like family and to be treated like family. I think it was fun for all, in spite of some of the sibling’s self-appointed duty to act as security guards and inspection agents!! Wouldn’t have it any other way and can’t wait to welcome Brandon in as an official member of our family.
Family blog: Someone New
As I hope you could tell in tonight’s episode, our family is so very happy for Michaella and Brandon. When a courting partner comes to visit, we want to make sure they feel special and like they’re already part of our family. The best way we know how to ensure a successful visit is to set some clear parameters from the start. After all, when everyone knows what’s expected, things run smoother! The first rule (and perhaps the most obvious) is that the courting couple cannot be in a room alone together. Of course, in this household, good luck to anyone trying to be alone in our house! We do realize though how overwhelming this experience can be so we try to give them some personal space and some one on one time with smaller sized groups and with each other. It’s important to us to have bonding time, but it’s also important to us that the boyfriend/ girlfriend feels comfortable enough with us that they can share their thoughts, goals, concerns and opinions. Our goal is for them to feel like family because they probably will be soon!
500 blog and counting!
We are so thankful for all of our fans reading this blog! We have reached 500 blogs and now we should start making our way up to 600 blogs!
Recap: Michaella and Brandon
Brandon is heading to Rocky Top, Tennessee, to stay with the family for two weeks. Brandon and Michaella have been a long distance courtship since December 30, 2013. Gil and Kelly decided that he could come and bond with the family during that time. Michaella revealed that she has been so excited to have this extra time with him and for him to get to know her siblings. Brandon arrives at the house and give all the kids candy which wins Judson's appoval.
Zach reveals that Brandon was smart to bring candy but he should have brought earplugs. Zach reveals that he is enjoying living the married life with one baby.
Brandon reveals that he has nine siblings but he is the third youngest. Brandon reveals that his childhood was busy but nothing compared to Michaella.
Brandon and Michaella revealed that they met at a homeschool conference five years ago. Brandon revealed "The more I get to know her, the more I realize how honored I am to be in this relationship with her"
Gil and Kelly only had one rule for the courting couple that they can't be in a room alone together.
Brandon heads with Brandon and the boys on their tree business while Michaella works at her nanny job. Gil reveals that Brandon is a hard worker.
Brandon is a little cautious but gets comfortable with the boys. Trace thinks that Brandon is showing him up by how hard of a worker he is.
Gil and Kelly head to the woods with Brandon and Michaella and decided to give them a little bit of privacy.
"When you have chaperones, sometimes it's awkward to carry on really in-depth conversations together," explains Kelly. "So we like for all the courting couples to have opportunity to have all the conversations they need to have..."
Gil and Kelly pray with their daughter and Brandon and give them a book, "The Getting ready for marriage workbook".
Michaella and Tori head out with the little kids to the indoor bounce house and Brandon heads with them. Tori tries to get Brandon to go bouncing and goes down the slides with her. Tori grabs his arm and Michaella jokes about taking her hands off of Brandon.
"If I'm not going to touch him, then she can't either," says Michaella, laughing. Tori shares her side of the story: "It wasn't like I was trying to hug the guy for crying out loud. I was just trying to get him to come have fun with me."
Brandon heads to do bowling with the Bates boy. Nathan asked what he is going to do when he is engaged and Brandon responds that it's going to hard to say. Brandon reveals that he is thinking about asking her to marry him but wants to keep it as a surprise. The boys give Brandon their approval.
Brandon heads to look for rings for Michaella and asked Carlin, Tori, and Josie to come along since they know what her style is however they all have a different idea on what ring Michaella would like best but at the end of the day it's up to Brandon to pick the ring.
"Brandon handled all the connections with the kids in a great way, and I think he's really a star player," says Gil sincerely.
Zach reveals that Brandon was smart to bring candy but he should have brought earplugs. Zach reveals that he is enjoying living the married life with one baby.
Brandon reveals that he has nine siblings but he is the third youngest. Brandon reveals that his childhood was busy but nothing compared to Michaella.
Brandon and Michaella revealed that they met at a homeschool conference five years ago. Brandon revealed "The more I get to know her, the more I realize how honored I am to be in this relationship with her"
Gil and Kelly only had one rule for the courting couple that they can't be in a room alone together.
Brandon heads with Brandon and the boys on their tree business while Michaella works at her nanny job. Gil reveals that Brandon is a hard worker.
Brandon is a little cautious but gets comfortable with the boys. Trace thinks that Brandon is showing him up by how hard of a worker he is.
Gil and Kelly head to the woods with Brandon and Michaella and decided to give them a little bit of privacy.
"When you have chaperones, sometimes it's awkward to carry on really in-depth conversations together," explains Kelly. "So we like for all the courting couples to have opportunity to have all the conversations they need to have..."
Gil and Kelly pray with their daughter and Brandon and give them a book, "The Getting ready for marriage workbook".
Michaella and Tori head out with the little kids to the indoor bounce house and Brandon heads with them. Tori tries to get Brandon to go bouncing and goes down the slides with her. Tori grabs his arm and Michaella jokes about taking her hands off of Brandon.
"If I'm not going to touch him, then she can't either," says Michaella, laughing. Tori shares her side of the story: "It wasn't like I was trying to hug the guy for crying out loud. I was just trying to get him to come have fun with me."
Brandon heads to do bowling with the Bates boy. Nathan asked what he is going to do when he is engaged and Brandon responds that it's going to hard to say. Brandon reveals that he is thinking about asking her to marry him but wants to keep it as a surprise. The boys give Brandon their approval.
Brandon heads to look for rings for Michaella and asked Carlin, Tori, and Josie to come along since they know what her style is however they all have a different idea on what ring Michaella would like best but at the end of the day it's up to Brandon to pick the ring.
"Brandon handled all the connections with the kids in a great way, and I think he's really a star player," says Gil sincerely.
Brandon and Michaella engaged?
New episode airs tonight!
There is a new Bringing up Bates episode tonight!
Do you think there will be another Bates engagement tonight?
Be sure to check our blog for the recap of the episode later tonight along with UP TV blogs from family to Alyssa's blog.
Be sure to check our blog for the recap of the episode later tonight along with UP TV blogs from family to Alyssa's blog.
Are Brandon and Michaela engaged?
What do you think is going to happen tonight on Bringing Up Bates?
Stay tuned tonight for the recap of the show.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Lawson and Nathan update!
Gil and Kelly are getting ready to say goodbye to their sons, Lawson and Nathan, for a full month to the Philippines. Lawson and Nathan will be joining Jim Bob and Michelle's son Josiah on this trip.
Brandon and Michaella preview!
Brandon comes for an extended stay. Could his visit could mean bigger things for Michaella and him?
Nine months!
John and Alyssa are celebrating their nine month of marriage! They are expecting their first child due in seven weeks!
Monday, February 23, 2015
Erin's pregnancy update: 25 weeks pregnant!
Friday, February 20, 2015
33 weeks pregnant!
It's hard to believe that John and Alyssa have 33 weeks pregnant with their first child! Allie will be here in about seven weeks.
Gil and Kelly are excited about the two grandbabies that are on the way. Chad and Erin are due about two months after John and Alyssa.
Allie marks the first granddaughter of Gil and Kelly Bates but will join big cousin Bradley to the next generation.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Family blog: Making Traditions
Setting traditions is an important part of keeping any size family together, but it is especially important for a super-sized one! Whether it’s getting together for Sunday dinner, having a movie night, or hosting an arts and crafts gathering, family time is quality time.
The Bates strive to focus on family time – meals out, park adventures, playtime, nursing home ministry, family singing opportunities, and family Bible study. But with children flying the coop, they have to work even harder to plan activities that will unite them and keep them close at heart – getting the families together for supper, games, and Bible study are just a few new family traditions with the new married couples. What kinds of traditions do you have in your family to encourage spending time together?
The Bates strive to focus on family time – meals out, park adventures, playtime, nursing home ministry, family singing opportunities, and family Bible study. But with children flying the coop, they have to work even harder to plan activities that will unite them and keep them close at heart – getting the families together for supper, games, and Bible study are just a few new family traditions with the new married couples. What kinds of traditions do you have in your family to encourage spending time together?
Kelly's blog: Family Milestones
There is no greater feeling as a parent than seeing your children grow into passionate young adults. This episode was meaningful, because Lawson reached a goal that seemed impossible, yet he never gave up. It was also special, because we realize Carlin is quickly growing up and we shared a special moment with her to set important goals for her future.
Watching Lawson sing the National Anthem at the University of Tennessee’s Men’s Basketball game was an experience Gil and I will never forget. I think Gil’s tears said it all! It was the first time that the whole family had been together for a big sports game, and I was at a loss for words at how much it meant for us all to be there together to cheer Lawson on. I know that Lawson is pursuing his dreams, and as a mother, I could not be more proud of him. He is proving to us all the importance of setting goals and working hard to reach those goals. It’s a valuable life lesson that all of his younger siblings are taking note of.
Our dinner with Carlin was a sentimental time, as we have learned just how quickly the children grow into adults and begin their own families. I can hardly believe that she is already 17 years old! Giving a purity ring to each one of our girls has been a major emphasis for us, because it gives them purpose and direction and shows how much they are valued. It also solidifies the close bond that we have with them. Gil and I feel incredibly blessed to be able to share these moments with our daughters.
One of the many things I’ve learned since some of the children have left the nest is the importance of family time. We all are being pulled in so many different directions now, and it is easy to get lost in the shuffle of our individual schedules. It is so important to make quality time to be with one another! I loved that Zach and Whitney had the whole family over for dinner. There’s nothing I adore more than being together with my children. We missed you, Alyssa and John!
Love, Kelly
Watching Lawson sing the National Anthem at the University of Tennessee’s Men’s Basketball game was an experience Gil and I will never forget. I think Gil’s tears said it all! It was the first time that the whole family had been together for a big sports game, and I was at a loss for words at how much it meant for us all to be there together to cheer Lawson on. I know that Lawson is pursuing his dreams, and as a mother, I could not be more proud of him. He is proving to us all the importance of setting goals and working hard to reach those goals. It’s a valuable life lesson that all of his younger siblings are taking note of.
Our dinner with Carlin was a sentimental time, as we have learned just how quickly the children grow into adults and begin their own families. I can hardly believe that she is already 17 years old! Giving a purity ring to each one of our girls has been a major emphasis for us, because it gives them purpose and direction and shows how much they are valued. It also solidifies the close bond that we have with them. Gil and I feel incredibly blessed to be able to share these moments with our daughters.
One of the many things I’ve learned since some of the children have left the nest is the importance of family time. We all are being pulled in so many different directions now, and it is easy to get lost in the shuffle of our individual schedules. It is so important to make quality time to be with one another! I loved that Zach and Whitney had the whole family over for dinner. There’s nothing I adore more than being together with my children. We missed you, Alyssa and John!
Love, Kelly
Zach's blog: The Art of Diaper Changing
Changing a baby boy is definitely a learning experience. This is all brand new for me and Whitney. We’ve learned the key is to keep them moving and to be FAST with the diaper change. If you’re not, you may get an unpleasant surprise ;)
Bonding with Bradley has been the greatest thing to ever happen to us, and it sure is a beautiful thing to watch Whitney with him! Becoming a dad is unlike anything I can begin to explain, but I am enjoying every single second of it. Whitney and I feel like the most blessed two people alive!
Also… I hope you all enjoyed my professional frozen pizza-making skills…haha! Those pizzas are lifesavers when my entire family comes over. We enjoy them coming over, but have to rely on the ready-made meals to serve so many!
Bonding with Bradley has been the greatest thing to ever happen to us, and it sure is a beautiful thing to watch Whitney with him! Becoming a dad is unlike anything I can begin to explain, but I am enjoying every single second of it. Whitney and I feel like the most blessed two people alive!
Also… I hope you all enjoyed my professional frozen pizza-making skills…haha! Those pizzas are lifesavers when my entire family comes over. We enjoy them coming over, but have to rely on the ready-made meals to serve so many!
Erin's blog: Lawson’s Performance and Carlin’s Purity Ring
It’s hard to express how proud and excited I was for Lawson, seeing him from a sister’s perspective, achieve one of his childhood dreams. Lawson is a very talented young man, whose aspirations and goals are inspiring to hear about, but even more thrilling to see come to fruition. We both admire his motivation as well as his desire to make the world a better place through music and ministry.
Lawson did an amazing job, in spite of his nervousness, and even though it was his first-time to sing in a venue like this. We’re proud and excited for him and we can’t wait to see what’s next in his life.
Seeing Carlin get her purity ring, made me cry as it brought back so many special memories. My parents have always tried to spend one on one time with us. They’ve taken each of us out for special dates, while they share important lessons from the heart. For me, the lesson on purity was one of the most important ones my parents taught me, and it caused me to value myself and my relationship with the Lord more than anything else. I know how very special Carlin must have felt, and what a treasure that memory will be.
Lawson's blog: Talk about Nerves...
If you had said a year ago that I’d be singing the National Anthem in front of 15,000 people, I surely would have said you were crazy! It was such a huge honor and truly a dream come true to sing at the University of Tennessee’s Men’s Basketball game. We are big fans, so I was so excited to not only attend the game, but also to have the honor of singing the National Anthem. It meant beyond the world to me that my family was there to support me. If you didn’t know how sentimental my dad is… now you know! I have never sang at such a large event, so I admit I was a little nervous, but it was totally worth it to see the crowd’s reaction. It was also exciting to watch a live game with the whole family (and yes, they won! Go UT!) Huge thanks again to my family for supporting me while I pursue my singing career dreams!
Alyssa's blog: The Best Grandparents
Watching my parents be first-time grandparents to little Bradley is the sweetest thing ever! They make the absolute BEST grandparents, and I can’t wait for little Allie Jane to be born so that they can meet her! I am beyond happy for my parents that they get to be so close to Bradley while he is little, but I will definitely miss having them near me when I have my baby. Although, I know that they will be able to come visit a lot when our little Allie Jane is born. Less than 8 weeks to go!
PS- Can we talk about how amazing Lawson did at the basketball game? I am so, so proud of him, and I can’t wait to see where his singing takes him. He is incredibly talented and his future looks so bright!
PS- Can we talk about how amazing Lawson did at the basketball game? I am so, so proud of him, and I can’t wait to see where his singing takes him. He is incredibly talented and his future looks so bright!
Recap: The Purity Rings
Lawson is getting ready to sing the National Anthem for many people at the University of Tennessee. He reveals that when he told his parents, they did not know if it was going to work but Lawson made it happen for him. The family heads to the game to support Lawson since it is their first major sporting event as a big family.
Lawson reveals that he is nervous about this and did amazing. His family was super proud of him and reveal that the crowd loved his singing.
Back at home, Carlin is surprised when she gets flowers and dress to go out to a dinner with her parents. Carlin is super excited about it since it means that she gets to spend some time with her parents without her brothers and sister. Gil reveals the gift that he got his daughter which was a purity ring. Gil and Kelly hope that their daughter will remain wholesome and pure until her wedding date.
Kelly knows that Carlin will start forming friendships with guys and start a courtship when she finds a guy that she really likes.
"For us, a purity ring is something we have given our girls, just as a symbol for them and a reminder for them to keep their heart pure and to put God first in their life and to save themselves for marriage," says the mom of 19.
The family heads to Zach and Whitney's house to see how they are doing with their new life as parents. Zach reveals that his wife is an amazing mom and loves seeing her with Bradley. Whitney says that her husband is excellent father. The family is there to help with dinner and spending time bonding. Kelly hopes to get together every other Friday night to spend time and they all agree.
Lawson reveals that he is nervous about this and did amazing. His family was super proud of him and reveal that the crowd loved his singing.
Back at home, Carlin is surprised when she gets flowers and dress to go out to a dinner with her parents. Carlin is super excited about it since it means that she gets to spend some time with her parents without her brothers and sister. Gil reveals the gift that he got his daughter which was a purity ring. Gil and Kelly hope that their daughter will remain wholesome and pure until her wedding date.
Kelly knows that Carlin will start forming friendships with guys and start a courtship when she finds a guy that she really likes.
"For us, a purity ring is something we have given our girls, just as a symbol for them and a reminder for them to keep their heart pure and to put God first in their life and to save themselves for marriage," says the mom of 19.
The family heads to Zach and Whitney's house to see how they are doing with their new life as parents. Zach reveals that his wife is an amazing mom and loves seeing her with Bradley. Whitney says that her husband is excellent father. The family is there to help with dinner and spending time bonding. Kelly hopes to get together every other Friday night to spend time and they all agree.
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
The Purity Ring preview
Carlin gets a night out alone with her parents and they have a special surprise for her. Later, the Bates family visits Zach and Whitney as they adjust to being first-time parents. Then, Lawson sings the National Anthem in front of 15,000 people.
Happy Birthday Addallee!
It's hard to believe that Addallee is turning nine years old today!
She shares her birthday with her older brother, Jackson!
Happy Birthday Jackson!
Today Jackson is turning 13 years old! He shares his birthday with his younger sister Addie!
Monday, February 16, 2015
Name that Bates!
Erin Bates Paine's Amazing Makeup Tutorial
Leave a comment down below on how you do your make up!
24 weeks and counting!
Chad and Erin are now 24 weeks pregnant with their first child. They are super excited about the newest member of their growing family.
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Gill and Kelly Jo Bates On How They Fell In Love
written by Gil and Kelly BatesIf you had asked us 31 years ago, when we met in Anderson, South Carolina, what the future would hold for us, we could have in no way imagined the joy we are getting to experience now.
We met at Anderson Junior College (Currently Anderson University) in 1984. We were first introduced by a friend, but really began to form a friendship after we joined a campus ministry team that traveled to churches to sing, testify, and preach. Before long, glances were being exchanged and admiration was growing. It was in chemistry class that sparks began to fly. I was the chemistry lab assistant, so Gil cunningly decided to ask for some extra tutoring after class. I was certainly attracted to his humor and outgoing personality, but most of all, I was fascinated by his desire to love and serve God.
We began dating seriously in the summer of 1986 before transferring to Carson Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee. By Christmas the following year, we stood before an altar exchanging wedding vows and committing our lives to one another.
Little did we know that 27 years later we would have 19 children! We have a sign hanging in our house that reads, "It all began when two people fell in love." That love has deepened over the years, and this Valentines Day we are reminded of the treasure we have in our relationships: with each other, with our children, with our friends, and with The Lord.
May this holiday be a time to celebrate and show gratitude for the special people in our lives!
By Gil and Kelly Jo Bates
By Gil and Kelly Jo Bates
Happy Valentine's day!
Happy Valentine's day to the Bates family and all of the fans! Today marks Zach and Whitney's second Valentine's day as husband and wife. Today also marks Bradley's first Valentine's day. Today marks Chad and Erin's second Valentine's day as husband and wife. Today also marks John and Alyssa's first Valentine's day as husband and wife.
Friday, February 13, 2015
Name that Bates
Bradley's room!
On the most reason episode of Bringing up Bates, Zach and Whitney were trying to get their son's bedroom.
Alyssa's 32 week of pregnancy!
Alyssa is 32 weeks pregnant with her first child. They are right about to have their baby shower!
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Family blog: Motherly Advice
With 19 kids, there’s a ton of advice to be given out! Whether it’s
getting up and walking to help induce labor or how to save money by
thrift store shopping, there are countless tidbits of info to be passed
along to new moms.
We want to hear from you! What advice do you have for Zach and Whitney… and soon to be Alyssa and Erin?
Let us know in the comments :)
We want to hear from you! What advice do you have for Zach and Whitney… and soon to be Alyssa and Erin?
Let us know in the comments :)
Kelly's blog: Becoming a Grandma
Whitney has become a true daughter to me, and it was so special for me to be able to coach her and give her advice during the stages of her pregnancy. Giving Zach’s baby book to Whitney was one of the most touching moments that we had shared in our relationship. It was so fun going page by page with her and sharing the joy of having a child. Don’t get me wrong though, it was very hard for me to give up that book! Passing along Zach’s baby book definitely signified closing a chapter in my life, since it is unlikely at this stage that Gil and I will have another child. However, we are more than blessed to be starting our role of grandparents!
How funny was it watching Zach when we all thought Whitney was going into labor? He was far more nervous than Whitney was! You would think that after helping out with all of his younger brothers and sisters, Zach would be an experienced pro with no nerves. That wasn’t the case, though! It’s far different to be the dad versus an older brother, and it gives Gil and me so much pleasure to watch him embrace the father role. My advice remains the same: you can’t neglect your partner once you have children… your partner is all you will have left when the kids leave the house!
Zach is such an awesome dad, and little Bradley is lucky to have him! Zach and Whitney make the cutest parents, and I can’t wait for you all to see more of Bradley! I am beyond in love with him.
Love, Kelly
Zach's blog: Our Little One
There are no words to express the joy and fulfillment that comes with being a parent! Zach and I both have always enjoyed being around children, but nothing can compare to holding your own little one. There is such a bond of love. Any last minute trips to the store to buy diaper wipes, or any middle of the night feedings, or any adjustment to our schedule to accommodate for a new family member seems like no sacrifice at all! I enjoy every precious moment we have together! We are so grateful for the opportunity to have Bradley. We know many families might not have had that opportunity, and we don’t want to ever take our time together for granted. We recognize the huge responsibility that comes with parenting, and we are looking to the Lord for guidance all along the way. In the meantime, we are counting our blessings and thanking God for each memory each day. We have already seen how time flies, but each new day has brought new joys! I’m treasuring the moments!
Erin's blog: The Secret’s Out!
This is definitely one of our favorite shows! Not only were we excitedly anticipating the arrival of our little nephew, Bradley, but we were also holding back the exciting news of our own little one on the way!
We planned a special date night with Dad and Mom to share our exciting news with them first! However, our secret soon spreads and the word gets out! We have had moments of nervousness and fears about the pregnancy, but the support and prayers of so many have encouraged us.
Zach and Whitney’s love and tenderness towards each other in this show will bring tears to your eyes, and Zach’s nervousness and eagerness during labor will keep you rolling with laughter! It’s a special time for all the new aunts and uncles too…not to mention the new grandparents! Bradley’s arrival was especially touching for us, because it gave us hope about holding our own little bundle of joy!
We planned a special date night with Dad and Mom to share our exciting news with them first! However, our secret soon spreads and the word gets out! We have had moments of nervousness and fears about the pregnancy, but the support and prayers of so many have encouraged us.
Zach and Whitney’s love and tenderness towards each other in this show will bring tears to your eyes, and Zach’s nervousness and eagerness during labor will keep you rolling with laughter! It’s a special time for all the new aunts and uncles too…not to mention the new grandparents! Bradley’s arrival was especially touching for us, because it gave us hope about holding our own little bundle of joy!
Lawson's blog: Call Me Uncle Lawson
How is it that three of my siblings were all expecting babies at the same time?! Nothing like putting the pressure on me and the other siblings ;) Nathan served up some serious truth in tonight’s episode. Jokes aside, I couldn’t be happier for Zach and Whitney. I might be biased, but Bradley is the most adorable little nephew and I’m proud to be his uncle. Not to worry, I’ll be the uncle who gets Bradley the funny t-shirts (sorry in advance, Whitney!).
Also, if tonight’s episode was any indication, let it be known that a secret cannot be kept in the Bates family! No matter how big or how small, these 21 mouths cannot be kept closed. Just remember that
Also, if tonight’s episode was any indication, let it be known that a secret cannot be kept in the Bates family! No matter how big or how small, these 21 mouths cannot be kept closed. Just remember that
Alyssa's blog: What Would We Do Without FaceTime?
All I have to say is, I’m so thankful that FaceTime exists! Now that I live in Florida and far away from my family, video chatting has been such a lifesaver for us all to keep in touch. It has been especially helpful during my pregnancy… I know that talking to my mom (almost in person) is just a phone call away! It’s so cute when the whole family tries to video call; no one can seem to get a word in. I definitely miss being able to go to the house, but Florida has been a great new place to call home. I wish I could have been there for Bradley’s birth, but it was totally magical to watch it all on TV. Zach and Whitney make the best parents! I’m also SO incredibly excited for Erin and Chad… my big sister is going to be a mommy :)
Recap: Welcome Grandbaby Bates
Zach and Whitney are due with Bradley in 12 days and they are both excited and nervous about having their first child. They decided that it's time to go clothes shopping where they learn that they have different taste. Bradley's room is not ready and so Zach enlist his brother-in-law Chad to come and help with Bradley's room.
Meanwhile, Gil and Kelly are having a video chat with John and Alyssa who are also expecting their first child this spring. Katie and Josie revealed that they can barely get a word in to talk to their older sister.
Kelly and Whitney go out for lunch where Kelly brings Zach's baby gift and gives it Whitney as a baby gift. Kelly reads an entry where Zach is two and half. Kelly remembers when she was teach Zach to have patience.
Kelly is so excited to be at the grandmother stage of life. She reveals that she is going to love being a grandmother.
Chad and Erin decided that it's time to reveal to her parents that they are expecting. Erin reveals that the pregnancy is high risk due to the fact that Erin has had three miscarriage. Chad and Erin are hoping that they can keep it a secret for a few more weeks but the word gets out.
On the day that Bradley is due, a few of girls decided to take a walk and hope that it gets her into labor since it worked on Kelly. Later that night, her contractions starts and she remains calm but not Zach. Gil and Kelly come over with some of the kids and decided that it's a false alarm.
A week after her due date, Dr Vick, wants to start labor and Whitney checks into the hospital and gets started on Pitosin. Whitney decides that she wants to get her water broken. Kelly reveals that it was hard for her to watch and tears up seeing her daughter-in-law in pain.
Whitney decides hat she wants to get an epidural and at 9:30 pm she is only 7-8. Many of their family come over to visit while they wait. Bradley is born on October 29th and is doing great. The family passes the baby around.
Meanwhile, Gil and Kelly are having a video chat with John and Alyssa who are also expecting their first child this spring. Katie and Josie revealed that they can barely get a word in to talk to their older sister.
Kelly and Whitney go out for lunch where Kelly brings Zach's baby gift and gives it Whitney as a baby gift. Kelly reads an entry where Zach is two and half. Kelly remembers when she was teach Zach to have patience.
Kelly is so excited to be at the grandmother stage of life. She reveals that she is going to love being a grandmother.
Chad and Erin decided that it's time to reveal to her parents that they are expecting. Erin reveals that the pregnancy is high risk due to the fact that Erin has had three miscarriage. Chad and Erin are hoping that they can keep it a secret for a few more weeks but the word gets out.
On the day that Bradley is due, a few of girls decided to take a walk and hope that it gets her into labor since it worked on Kelly. Later that night, her contractions starts and she remains calm but not Zach. Gil and Kelly come over with some of the kids and decided that it's a false alarm.
A week after her due date, Dr Vick, wants to start labor and Whitney checks into the hospital and gets started on Pitosin. Whitney decides that she wants to get her water broken. Kelly reveals that it was hard for her to watch and tears up seeing her daughter-in-law in pain.
Whitney decides hat she wants to get an epidural and at 9:30 pm she is only 7-8. Many of their family come over to visit while they wait. Bradley is born on October 29th and is doing great. The family passes the baby around.
Is there a Duggar/Bates wedding on the way?
Chad and Erin are 23 weeks pregnant with their first child but have miscarried three babies in the past two years. Erin reveals what her fears about her current pregnancy and her past miscarriages. She also talked about a wedding between the Bates and Duggars along with Jill Dillard's advice to Erin.
ETonline asked "After you spoke about your [miscarriage] struggles on the show, did you get a lot of support from women who had been through something similar?"
Erin responded " I think that was one of the main things that helped me and Chad get through it. Hearing stories from ladies and families who have been through hard situations that were even worse than ours in some cases, really made us take our eyes off of ourselves and put them on the people who were hurting around us. I honestly had no idea how many people face the problem that we were going through, and it really opened our eyes. And it was so encouraging to hear different stories and different words of encouragement that people shared. It just made it a lot easier for both of us, I think."
ETonline asked"It's something that people don't really talk about, did you consider not sharing it on the show?"
Erin responded "I'm not going to lie, it's very difficult to talk about, just because it's something that hurts when you do share it. Me and Chad prayed about it. We felt like, if it can encourage someone else that's been through something similar that's facing a hard time, then I'd be willing to open up our lives. Even though I didn't know how people would take that, or if it would be too personal, but everybody was so supportive and so helpful during that time. I'm so grateful that we did decide to share."
ETonline asked "Now that you're getting further along in your pregnancy, do you feel like you're able to relax a little bit at this point?"
Erin told The first three months, I hate to say this, but I almost lived in fear. Chad was constantly comforting me, saying, ‘Erin, you just gotta trust the Lord. This is something that is not in your hands. We're doing everything we can to make sure that the baby is healthy and we're following everything the doctor [tells us] but, at the same time, you don't have control over this.' So that was really, really hard for me, looking back and thinking, ‘What if it happens again? I'm gonna be absolutely crushed.' … It was such a relief every time I could hear the baby's heartbeat. And now that I'm 23 weeks, feeling the baby kick is the highlight of my day. I get so excited because it's like a confirmation – the baby's okay!
ETonline asked I know that you're a very accomplished musician, and you give music lessons. Can you tell what kind of music your baby likes?
Erin responded: For some reason when I play really upbeat, fast music, I always feel the baby kicking.
ETonline asked: Jill Duggar is also expecting, has she given you any advice?
Erin said: Yes, Jill Duggar has been such an encouragement throughout the pregnancy. I text her every once in a while asking a question, and she's so sweet. She always gives advice. Last week she was sharing to try to portion my food and eat this many vegetables and drink this much water. So she's a big help, just knowing that she's been through the midwife classes. She's a good friend.
ETonline question: Do you think it's possible that one of your siblings would grow up and marry one of the Duggars?
Erin answered: I personally think, hey you have 19 kids on each side, I think it's almost inevitable somewhere down the line. As much as we see each other, I think there's going to be an attraction somewhere. I don't know where yet, but I think it's gonna happen.
Watch the clip above to see Erin and Chad meeting their brand-new nephew Bradley for the first time, and wondering how that will affect them given their losses. Tune in to Bringing Up Bates tonight on UP at 9 p.m. ET to see the joyful way that Erin and Chad reveal her pregnancy to her parents.
New episode tonight!
There is a new episode of Bringing up Bates tonight! Don't forget to check out our blog for recap and the family's blogs after the show!
INTERNET RESOURCES & TIPS
The availability of technology can be a useful tool in homeschooling. It can also be a destructive vice if misused. For this reason, we recommend using some safety tips for internet usage in the home:- Place the computer in a central location where it is in view of others
- Establish time restrictions that the computer cannot be used (In parental controls)
- Use filters in parental controls to choose the desired maturity level that can be accessed
- Install a program like Covenant Eyes or Ever Accountable to receive accountability reports
- Regularly discuss dangers and establish safety goals
- Limit usage to educational purpose, rather than entertainment and social
- Encourage communication about internet usage, temptations, experiences, questions, etc.
- Listen as a family to The Dark Side of the Internet sermon by Rand Hummel (http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?speakeronly=true&currsection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=Dr._Rand_Hummel)
Once you’ve established so
me safety and accountability goals, find resources and links you can use to help improve your students’ skills. Do not use these resources as a replacement for curriculum, but they can be very helpful for quizzing, improving skills, promoting learning and comprehension of a specific subject. This can be a great help to the mom that has many students raising their hands for help at the same time. Instead of sitting and waiting, if you have a list of sites already on their checklist, they can make use of their waiting time. This is not just filling their time with unnecessary and repetitive “busy work,” because their individualized checklist includes subjects they actually need extra drill work on. It gives a fun change in between their regular workbook, DVD, or computer routine that can be just the right “pick me up” to re-arouse their interest. (Caution: Avoid letting the focus be on games that have more pizzazz and appeal than actual educational benefit.)
me safety and accountability goals, find resources and links you can use to help improve your students’ skills. Do not use these resources as a replacement for curriculum, but they can be very helpful for quizzing, improving skills, promoting learning and comprehension of a specific subject. This can be a great help to the mom that has many students raising their hands for help at the same time. Instead of sitting and waiting, if you have a list of sites already on their checklist, they can make use of their waiting time. This is not just filling their time with unnecessary and repetitive “busy work,” because their individualized checklist includes subjects they actually need extra drill work on. It gives a fun change in between their regular workbook, DVD, or computer routine that can be just the right “pick me up” to re-arouse their interest. (Caution: Avoid letting the focus be on games that have more pizzazz and appeal than actual educational benefit.)
Most of these sites were introduced to us by friends and other homeschool families, but there are many more resources that can be found. So if you have some suggestions of conservative educational sites that encouraging learning, feel free to share them.
We learned about this site from Joy Duggar. It quizzes on many subjects, but the little girls (Addee, Ellie, and Callie) learned to locate the states and name the capitals from this site.
2. Kahn Academy https://www.khanacademy.org/
This is a great site for help with science and math (especially upper levels subjects like chemistry and physics). Short tutorials are shown with plenty of explanation and practice!
3. Homeschool Math http://www.homeschoolmath.net/
This is one of many sites that provides practice math drills for every grade, sorted by concepts. So if your student needs extra drill work on addition, multiplication, fractions, or any other concepts, this will help solidify their mastery.
4. Language Arts Skills http://www.ixl.com/ela/
This is one of many sites that gives drill work for language skills at each grade level.
5. The Pioneer Woman
The Pioneer Woman lists an abundance of links and descriptions for sites to help with homeschooling
The best advice is word of mouth recommendations by those who have tested the resources and have found them helpful enough that they want to share them with others!
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