Recap: Lawson's New Love and the Boutique's New Digs

 Chad, Erin and Brooklyn reveal the old camper that Chad and Erin just brought. The camper is a major fixer-upper and are looking forward to renovation. Erin reveals that she doesn't love the idea of tent camping but when Chad suggested renovating a camper, she was on board with it.

Gil, Kelly, Lawson, and Nathan are discussing their annual "I love you day" celebration. They do a face time call with the family and decided on doing an animal theme. Zach reveals that they all love bringing 101 opinions to a decision.

It's time for the Bates Sisters Boutique to move into their new storefront. Erin, Whitney and Carlin supervise and bring their employees as well. Carlin reveals that she thinks that they are just excited as they are since the layout is going to be a lot better.

Lawson has been traveling a lot but is home now and enjoying time with his dog, Duke. He plans to send the dog for three months of training. Lawson reveals that he is going to bring his girlfriend Tiffany to their "I love you day" party to meet the family.

Jackson is currently recovering from a snowboarding injury that he got on the family ski trip to Colorado. He had hit an ice patch while attempting to do a 360 and ended up snapping both of the arm bones. He had 13 screws and two metal plates put in his arm. 

Recap: A DIY Date and a Delivery Date

The Paine and Smith couples are getting a getaway in Gatlinburg. The trip was a Christmas gift from Kelly. They are going to have a date night at Board and Brush which is a craft place. Erin reveals that her sister doesn't like to do anything outside of her comfort zone. Chad and Bobby talk about being a girl dad since Charlotte is due in about 21 weeks. Tori reveals that the little girl is just going to capture his heart.

The finished wooden signs look really good and here is what they say:

- Chad: Paine: Always Exploring, Since 2013 with a picture of an RV

- Erin: The Paines: Welcome

- Tori: BTS (Tori and Bobby's initials)

- Bobby: Bobby and Tori Smith: Est: 2017

Josie and Katie are doing a style shoot at a wedding venue Castleton Farms. This shoot will be featured in a bridal magazine. For those that don't know that Castleton Farms is where Evan and Carlin got married.

Over at Zach's house, Brandon and Michaella arrive with Lasagna and homemade bread. The boutique is overflowing into the house again and they are ready for the storefront to open. Michaella is finished with school and is planning to volunteer at the children's hospital until she decides where she wants to work.

Down in Florida, John and Alyssa are getting ready for the birth of their fourth daughter but first they have to pack the girls overnight bags. Alyssa has organized all of the outfits in each individual plastic bags. Soon after, Alyssa goes into labor. She and John dropped the girls at the houses that they are staying at. With her last three labors, Alyssa gives birth about eight hours later. This time it takes longer. After spending a day walking and doing exercise, John and Alyssa head to the hospital where she is able to get an epidural. Maci arrives shorty after. John is really excited to have his daughter join their little girl squad.

Soon after the Websters are home from the hospital, Gil, Kelly and Callie meet them at their house with gifts and food. Kelly says that it's hard for them to believe how good God has been. She adds that Maci is safe, Alyssa is healthy and they are so grateful.

Recap: Home Sweet Home and Nathan's Love

Bobby and Tori just brought their first home and have moved into it. They revealed that they had been looking for a while but hadn't seen much on the market. When they were able to find a place for sale, it was perfect for them since it was two houses away from Zach and Whitney. Bobby and Tori give Zach, Whitney, Michaella and Brandon a tour of their new home. While they were spending time with the couples, Tori jokes that Chad and Erin are coming up with the design and decorations. Chad is planning to add a back porch which makes Tori excited about it. She reveals to Whitney and Michaella that she had Bobby put his clothes with the boys in the large closet so she can have their closet all to her self.

It's time to celebrate Layla's first birthday by going to the Zoo. The Bates family is joining Carlin, Evan and Layla. Meanwhile John and Alyssa are busy getting ready for Maci's arrival. They have to put together the baby items. Alyssa says that you would think after three kids that they would be prepared but things have gotten a little bit more complicated than before. Alyssa also reveals that she will be having baby #4 at the hospital instead of a birth center due to monitoring of her heart.

Alyssa jokes that at the age of 40, she and John will have grown kids in college and will be able to enjoy the grandchildren. 

Meanwhile, the boys are busy building out the new retail space for the Boutique while Zach recently started to work for the tree business. Zach reveals that he would love to move around at 56 like his father instead of 33 moving around like he is right now. Carlin reveals that her dad is still the man and the hero of all of his children.

Nathan is at home and helping at the tree job. During their break, Nathan reveals an update on his relationship with Esther. He is wanting to get engaged this spring. He thinks that it's time to make the next step and make Esther's role change from girlfriend to a fiance. He hopes to pop the question in the Bahamas.

Recap: 'Tis the Season for Surprises

 Katie spends some time with Ellie, Callie and Addallee and show them how to curl their hair. Addee reveals that it's going to be sad when Katie leaves. She is going to be crying for the whole week after.

Zach arrives to the big house to help the boys hang Christmas Lights. Nathan arrives with Esther to introduce her to the family. Zach reveals that Esther seems like a very sweet girl and she loves Nathan a lot. He also reveals that it seems like Nathan loves her alot too so he was super excited to watch them roll in. Esther is also from a big family so she feels right at home with the Bates family right now. 

The couples gather for a bonfire. John and Alyssa are in town so everyone is together. Nathan and Esther share how they met. Nathan reveals that Esther has the bluest eyes that he has ever seen. The couple started texting and calling about a week later, Nathan said that he wanted to be more than friends. Nathan reveals that it was a year ago so going public with his family is like going public with the world.

Over at Zach and Whitney's house, the kids help decorate gingerbread men or rather genderbread men. Josie, Kelton, and Willow have a photoshoot to reveal the gender of their second baby.

The family gathers for their Christmas celebration expect for Bobby and Tori's family. Bobby and Tori are not able to attend the family's celebration. Taryn Yager takes outdoor family photos. After the group photo, the reveals start. Kelton and Josie hand over an ornament to Kelton's father that reveals "baby Girl: Hazel Sloane Balka.

Zach and Whitney hand his and Whitney's parents a box of gingerbread men with no icing. Kelly ask where the color is and Zach apologizes and brings out the blue gingerbread men.

Erin makes a big announcement on Bobby and Tori's behalf. She gives her parents a placard that says "making room for a new little one: Charlotte Raine.

Tori reveals that Bobby will be a good girl dad but she can't say that she will be a good girl mom but she will try her hardest.

Nathan reveals that Christmas is a magical time of year. He also adds that he can't wait for every Christmas to come since he is confident that they are going to be with Esther.

Recap: Nathan's New Romance and a Secret Birthday Bash

Just prior to Kelly's surgery, the family gathers to surprise Kelly with a birthday celebration. Michaella reveals that family time is really a special gift and she thinks that her mom will enjoy the special time before her surgery. Instead of doing the birthday praises that is a family tradition, they decide to share childhood memories. Zach remembers the time that the little kids were napping that his mother would teach him how to read. Erin remembers her mother listening to her practice music when she was not really good at. Callie recounts how her mother makes her feel special and encourages her to try new things. Kelly is so thankful to all of her children.

Gil leads the family in prayer for Kelly's surgrey. John and Alyssa are able to facetime for the birthday party which means a lot to Kelly.

It's been two days since Kelly's surgery, Michaella comes by to check on her mother who is in pain and will have a month recovery with only liquids and purees. She is looking forward to having a better quality of life.

Lawson has adopted a dog name Duke and has a K9 trainer come by to the house. Lawson hopes to train the dog as a law enforcement dog but Zach is not sure. Zach is worried that with everyone running around the house. He knows that the dog is going to be spoiled with attention and should be an police emotional support dog.

Bobby and Tori had orginally planned to do a big birthday bash for Kade's second birthday however some of the family were exposed to COVID so they had to change their plans to just celebrate his birthday with Bobby's parents. They decorate cupcakes but Kade is not into it as much as Kolter. Alyssa gives her birthday buddy a golf set which makes him more into the party mood.

Nathan reveals to his parents about his relationship with Esther. Esther lives in Pennsylvania. They are officially boyfriend and girlfriend. Nathan would like to have Esther come to the early Christmas celebration because he will be on the east coast for Christmas. Nathan asks for advice and the parents give him advice to take it slow. Nathan reveals that it means so much to have his parents excited about being involved in their lives. Nathan reveals that his parents share their past experiences and they are always honest which helps their children.

Recap: Smitten in the Smokies

 Travis comes to Tennessee for Katie's birthday. Travis rveals that Katie loves to remind him that she is older than him by five months. He adds that she loves to say that I love older women. When he arrives to the house, he surprises her with a new dress and plans for a dinner date. When it comes to having chaperones, Katie and Travis choses Addallee and Ellie since they have a limited section.

Whitney and Carlin head to pick up their key for their storefront in Rocky Top. Whitney and Carlin make plans for their store with Zach and Chad. The girls are concerend that they will grow out of this space quickly like they grew out of the warehouse in Zach and Whitney's backyard.

Gil and Kelly take Lawson, Katie, Travis and the younger kids to Gatlinburg. They head up to take ziplines however Judson, Jeb and Callie do not meet the weight requirement and are unable to take the ziplines. Kelly, Katie and Travis take the three to do gem-mining. Katie asks if there is a ring in there since she thinks that Travis wants one.

Callie reveals that they all thought that there was going to be a ring for Katie in one of them. Jeb and Callie both agree that would have been a perfect proposal plan. Travis reveals that he still has a year and half left of school but Katie thinks that he might propose sooner than that.

Gil reveals that he is trying to think the word engagement is something that he is going to pretend is down the road so they are going to wait and see. He just prays that it's a long time down the road. He adds that no one has talked to him yet.

Recap: He or She, What will the Baby Be?

Gil says that the family is trying to have the right spirit and attitude about the good and the bad things as God is working them all for something good even when they can't see it.

Erin, Whitney, and Carlin's business has grown within a year and they need more space and are considerring to open a store front.

Many of the family members contracted COVID but Erin has struggled with it the most. Her recovery has been long and she has fequent headaches, fatigue, nausea, and a sore throat. Tammy (Chad's mom) has come to help out with the grandchildren. Chad says that with Erin being down that meant half of him is gone. He reveals that it blows him away with how strong his wife is. Due to Erin's complications, they are unsure if it's covid related or possibly Lyme Disease.

Kelton and Josie are finishing up the final touches on their renovations. After trying to get pregnant for a few months, Josie suffered a miscarriage. Josie remembers that they had many emotions. Josie's doctor doesn't think that her miscarriage was caused by the same condition that some of the other girls have but ends up having blood work done to investigate.

Josie gives an update on her business, Effortless Beauty. Josie and her friend, Grace are doing hair and makeup for weddings and events. Her sister Katie has joined the team. Both Katie and Josie are taking advance makeup course online. Katie has not determind if she is going to move to NJ when she and Travis get married. She says that if it was up to her then they would be engaged tomorrow but they are taking their time. She reveals to Grace and Josie that she will work in the business for about a year.

Zach has been busy working at the Sheriff department for the past ten years and have been working at least 50 to 60 hours a week. He is planning to leave the law enforcement and return to the family business. Gil says that he made the same decision when he left his job at the sale company and started the tree business.

Meanwhile in Flordia, Alyssa has some news to share with John. They are expecting their fourth child. They do a live-stream with the gender reveal. The couple has friends help pull it off. One of the friends call Gil right before to tell him so he can shoot a power cannon in Tenessee right as the gender is announced by John and Alyssa.

Kelly heads to spend some time with Michaella to catch up on life. Michaella is waiting to take her nursing state boards. Kelly reveals some medical issues that she has been dealing with. Kelly reveals that she has Gerds which has turned to Barrett's Esophagus. Kelly is terrified when she was told that she has pre-cancerous cells. Her meds are not working which means that Kelly will need to have surgery.

Lawson is at LA airprot to pick up Esther Faith who is going to have life-saving surgery. Nathan reveals that this took so much effort to pull off since it took 10 doctors. Nurses had to travel back and forth to the Philippiness to take care of the sweet little girl. Lawson and Nathan travel with Esther to Orlando where she will have the surgery. The surgery is sucessful and it will be the only surgery that she will need. She will be able to return home and live a happy normal life.

Recap: Holiday Cheer and New Baby Khloe is Here

Zach and Whitney are spending extra bonding time with Bradley and Kaci before they welcome their third child. Whitney and Bradley head to go enjoy beans and cornbread. Zach says that his son is looking forward to having Khloe. He has been talking about her since he first found out and he is pretty excited.
Zach and Kaci are about to have a tea party. Zach says that his daughter is always wanting to do tea parties and girl things but most of the time she is playing with Bradley with monster trucks and dinosaurs. He thought that this would be fun for them.
A problem coRecap: Holiday Cheer and New Baby Khloe is Here

Zach and Whitney are spending extra bonding time with Bradley and Kaci before they welcome their third child. Whitney and Bradley head to go enjoy beans and cornbread. Zach says that his son is looking forward to having Khloe. He has been talking about her since he first found out and he is pretty excited.
Zach and Kaci are about to have a tea party. Zach says that his daughter is always wanting to do tea parties and girl things but most of the time she is playing with Bradley with monster trucks and dinosaurs. He thought that this would be fun for them.
A problem comes up with the tea party since Zach doesn't have any tea because he doesn't want to be fat when the new baby arrives. He finds an altervine with hot chocolate and when he pours it into the teapot, he finds that it leaks on the side.
Evan says that he is looking forward to doing girly things with Layla and Bobby hopes that he has a daughter someday.
At the big house, Kelly wants the house to be decorated with Christmas before Mama Jane arrives for Thanksgiving. The family is approaching a busy season with two grandbabies due before the end of the year. Erin is in charge of the decor as the siblings lend a hand. As they are working, it starts snowing outside.
It's time for Baby Khloe to arrive so Zach and Whitney take their two oldests to grandma's house and head to the hospital. She gets an epidural. Both sets of parents along with Tori, Carlin and Erin come to show up for support. Whitney says that when you marry into the family, you better expect that every event is going to be big.
Bradley and Kaci arrive to meet their new baby sister when she is born. They both are beyond thrilled to meet their sister. Whitney says that if she could sum up today in words then she would cry because of all the love in the room as she welcomed their third child.
mes up with the tea party since Zach doesn't have any tea because he doesn't want to be fat when the new baby arrives. He finds an altervine with hot chocolate and when he pours it into the teapot, he finds that it leaks on the side.
Evan says that he is looking forward to doing girly things with Layla and Bobby hopes that he has a daughter someday.
At the big house, Kelly wants the house to be decorated with Christmas before Mama Jane arrives for Thanksgiving. The family is approaching a busy season with two grandbabies due before the end of the year. Erin is in charge of the decor as the siblings lend a hand. As they are working, it starts snowing outside.
It's time for Baby Khloe to arrive so Zach and Whitney take their two oldests to grandma's house and head to the hospital. She gets an epidural. Both sets of parents along with Tori, Carlin and Erin come to show up for support. Whitney says that when you marry into the family, you better expect that every event is going to be big.
Bradley and Kaci arrive to meet their new baby sister when she is born. They both are beyond thrilled to meet their sister. Whitney says that if she could sum up today in words then she would cry because of all the love in the room as she welcomed their third child.

Recap: Brandon's Book and Kelly Jo's New Look

Christmas is around the corner and the family is expecting Holland around that time, Chad comes home with presents for Erin. Chad is hoping to get the kids involved and think about how much Erin does for her kids. He wants to do something special in honor of Erin.
The big present is a foot spa for Erin since she loves having her feet pampered. The kids are eager to be part of it. Erin loves that her husband includes their kids in everything since they are making memories. Erin asks her son if he is going to spoil his future wife one day and he responses that he will along with himself.
Brandon is about to have his first book signing in Knoxville. He reads a chapter out of his book and then signs copies. Brandon says the night was pretty surreal and knows that they have been working on it for so long.
Kelly arrives at Josie's home to get ready for an anniversary date with Gil. She asked her daughters to help her with hair and makeup. Josie says that her mom is used to wearing her hair one way and doesn't want to change it. Today they are going to try something different.
    Later, Kelly arrives at Josie’s house ahead of an anniversary date with Gil. “We have a lot of dates but not a lot of fancy dates,” says Kelly. That’s why she has asked her daughters for help with hair and makeup. Kelly tells her daughter to surprise her with the new look.
During her time of working in a salon, Josie figures that her passion is weddings. She and her friend has decided to open an hair business for  weddings.
Katie and Carlin arrive and begin Kelly's makeup. Katie just came back from a week with Travis and his family. She says that their relationship is going really well.
Kelly ends up with an up-do makeover. She ends up choosing a black maxi dress. One of the dresses were not Kelly's taste which was a leopard prints dress.
Gil arrives at Josie's house with flowers. He is stunned. Gil says that Kelly is really hot and I'll just tell you. Gil has chosen Kitchen 919 in downtown Knoxville. During their dinner, He gives Kelly a present which is a long silver necklace.
Zach says that his father has some experience romanticizing his mom. The other siblings reveal that Gil brings home flowers and other gifts. He also leaves notes. Kelly says that it shows the kids that they are committed to see through things and stay together no matter what. They are also best friends.
Gil says that they feel close in marriage when they feel safe and trust each other. They are also willing to sacrifice for each other. He adds that when they are sacrificing, it becomes natural when they love each other.

Recap: Taking Care of Business and Florida Fun

Gil is trying to keep the tree business going while he is recovering from his surgery. He has enlist helped from his sons. Their job for the day is to cut down a tall pine tree. Lawson wants to ride the cherry picker bucket because it's something that he has never done. Nathan ends up filling the role. Nathan says that it's pretty cool being able to enjoy the boys and working.
Chad and Erin talk about how they are planning to fit all four kids in one bedroom. Gil reveals that they only had one little bedroom house and then moved into a two bedroom. They were like eight kids in an 800-square-foot house. When Holland moves into the kids room at five or six months old, Everly will transition into the trundle bed that pulls out of the bunk bed. Erin says that they hope to find a new house very soon so Carson can have his own room. Erin says that she loves the small house and it's been easy to organize but wants to get an extra bedroom and bathroom. The couple is open to flip an old house with charm and possible property to build on.
Gil and Kelly arrive in Florida to visit John and Alyssa. Kelly brings the girls crafts while Gil brings princess dresses. Gil cooks with Zoey in the play kitchen while Kelly does crafts with Allie and Lexi.
Michaella says that her father would play with the kids while her mom cook dinner at 5pm. Gil says that he remembers when people that were older would get down to his level and that spoke volumes to him
The group heads to walk downtown. Gil gets a haircut from John's barber, Earl. Earl is deaf but Gil is able to use a little bit of sign language that his father taught him. John revealed that Earl has always cut his hair expect for one time. He said that he would never again. John grow up with Earl's kids. John and Alyssa have been teaching their children sign language.
After the haircut, they head to have a picnic which was prepared by Alyssa. Kelly says that they would carry everything to the table and plop it in. She adds whatever container that it came in was the container that you were going to eat out of it. Alyssa manages to decorate the table.
During the lunch, they talk about Alyssa's heart problems and her two surgeries. Kelly says that the heart issues that Alyssa had, she was most likely born with it and did not show up until her pregnancy with Zoey.
The first surgery had fail but the second one was successful. Alyssa is now having symptoms of Afib. Alyssa says that her heart is just more sensitive and she is noticing more and it's not something that is life threatening. John says that his wife is the strongest human that you will ever meet, much less the strongest woman that he knows. He adds that watching her battle the health issues and yet stay strong makes him a little wimp.

Recap: Nesting Mode and Mommies on a Mission

Michaella has an associate in medicinal health science and an EMT certification. She is currently in a phlebotomy lab with an LPN lab instructor. She says that she doesn't know what field she wants to go in. She says that the nursing school is wonderful and very fast-paced.

Erin says that Michaella has always talked about going into nursing school as a teenager. It's something that is natural for her. Josie adds everyone is so pumped that she is doing it.

Michaella says that her teachers have always said to be the kind of nurse that you would want to have. She wants her patients to know that she cares. She is looking forward to being a nurse.

Erin, Chad and Lawson arrive to Kelton and Josie's new house to do a white mortar on the fireplace. Addallee holds Willow. Josie says that it's a good thing to recruit Erin because she can get Chad to help with these projects.

Gil says that moving into the new house and getting it ready is to just sweep and mop but the kids idea is to take out walls and redo a lot and then have to paint it.

Josie reveals that Lawson is fun and easy to have around. Callie answers a question about why Lawson gets a hard time about not having a boyfriend and she says it's because of him being 27 and it's odd.

Lawson gets up on the ladder and tries the German schmear technique and the girls qonder if he is precise enough. Josie says that he is better at his music then the schmear technique.

Chad says that it dawned on him that he might be involed to see the project finish. When the fireplace is done, it looks amazing.

Brandon and Michaella have the nieces and nephews along with a few of the little siblings over to make caramel apples. The tradition started when Addallee, Ellie and Callie were little and now the three girls can help carry on the tradition with the younger children. Brandon says that it will be interesting and fun to have a lot of little hands.

Kade joins in on the fun when Addallee and Michaella give him a few licks. Tori says that she stays away from giving Kade candy and sweets but his aunts and uncles do not. She also adds that she expected that they would give him something while there. After they are done, they jump into leaves that Brandon had just raked.

Erin heads over to Zach and Whitney's home to help reorganize and decorate Kaci and Khloe's room. Whitney says that Kaci is so excited to share a room with her sister. She also adds that Kaci has rearranged Khloe's pillows and getting it ready and stuff. Whitney says that she loves having Erin's help however Chad adds that her brother hates her.

Erin only has one room for her four children and has put in a bunk bed for Carson and Brooklyn. She also has a trundle for Everly and a crib for Holland. She says that she is trying to work with what she has and have their eyes open for a new property. Erin says that location is everything, so she wants to find a location that she loves. She wants to live near all of the cousins.

Recap: A Great Bates gateway

Before we start our recap, we do want to address two things. Trace and Chaney are no longer in a relationship. Also this episode was filmed before COVID-19.

During a flag football game, Trace breaks his finger while trying to grab a flag. Trace is scheduled to have surgery on the first day of the vacation. Before checking in, the family heads to Wonderworks.

Zach reveals that he is very sentimental about everyone getting together. Travis and Chaney are joining this year's vacation along with Chaney's sisters.

Gil, Trace and Chaney arrive to the event. Trace just got out of surgery and has his hand in a cast. Gil is still in a sling from having a shoulder surgery.

Katie feels that whenever you bring someone into the family, everyone feels that it's their duty to be a chaperone and sometimes there are too many. Travis and Katie get on a small simulator ride and a few of the Bates give them a hard time. Kelly reassures Gil that the ride is intense enough and they will be clinging to their seats.

The family heads to their cabin and it has 11 rooms. Kelly and Tori assign rooms and Tori feels that it's complicated. They finished the task and head to get groceries and begin cook. Nathan says that it's a full blownrestaurant to feed an army.

The evening comes and everyone gathers to give Kelly gifts since her birthday is the following day. As family traditions, they sing her praises. Lawson says that it's his favorite thing about birthday celebration.

Callie says that her mother is the most giving. Kelton, Brandon, and Bobby bring in three birthday cakes and Kelly says that her heart is full.

The next morning, they have a chaos because everyone is trying to get ready on time. They are heading to Anakeesta via chairlift.

The moms and little children enjoy lunch while the rest of the family heads to walk through the woods. They had to go rope bridges and Travis says that it's chaotic but organized.

During a family picture, Bobby and Tori announce the gender of their second child by releasing blue confetti. Gil's prediction from Carlin's Gender Reveal was correct. Kelly reveals that it was a way to surprise them and she didn't see that coming.

Recap: A Pizza Katie's Heart

As many of you know that the Bates have four grandbabies on the way so Erin, Whitney, Tori, and Carlin head to the doctor for ultrasound with Kelly. Whitney learns that her daughter has hair. Erin wants to know if the baby has hair and how big her nose is. Carlin thinks that Layla looks like a blob until she sees the hand. Tori's baby is tinier and is approximately 2.5 inches.

Tori learns that she has the same blood disorder as her sisters. She was not tested during her pregnancy with Kade because she lived in Nashville and the condition is different with each pregnancy. Tori feels that it's nice to know that she is not doing this by herself.

Gil and Kelly have most of the grandchildren over for a sleepover while the couples go out for a date. Gil is recovering from shoulder surgery. She has Katie help with sleepovers because she needs to go to bed early.

Michaella was looking forward to the couples date since they don't get together very much.
Kelly says that she was very thankful to have Addie, Ellie, and Katie to help with the grandkids but it was a good coverup for Katie.

Katie's special friend arrives with pink roses and pizza and Katie is shocked. She doesn't know how to deal with surprises. Katie and Travis met through mutual friends and started messaging a few months ago. Katie and her parents went up to New Jersey to meet Travis's family.

Travis and his sister have lunch with Katie, Kelly and a few siblings. Katie gets a beautiful gift box with photos of the couple, a pink hat and other goodies.

Kelly invites Travis to come to their upcoming vaction. Lawson jokes that he is going to bring his girlfriend to the vacation.

Kelly hopes that their relationship will be in the long haul. Travis takes the group to the ice cream place at Cruze Frams. Carlin says that the way to win her sister is through pizza and ice cream. Katie is shocked that Travis will only eat vanilla ice cream. The group plays "putt-putt" Travis tries to help Katie but she is doing bad.

Kelly says that they don't want to rush their children into a relationship. It's really exciting when you have met somebody and it's different. Kelly says that they need to enjoy this time as friends and get to know each other and hug while Gil says to wait on hugging.

Recap: Surgery and Surprises

Kelton and Josie head to Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. Josie reveals that she has been wanting to go eat seafood but is nervous. Erin reveals that all of the girls are finicky about seafood because they didn't grow up eating it. Josie enjoys the shrimp but is not a big fan of scallops. The only seafood that she has tried is fish sticks and she doesn't like them. Kelton says that Josie is an incredible mother. Their first year has been a whirlwind and Josie hopes that their second year will be calm down. She wants to spend a lot of time together and make the most of everything. Kelton says that having Willow made them stronger and help them grow closer together. During their date, Brandon and Michaella are babysitting the little one.

Kelly says that Michaella has a love for babies and is a natural. Michaella says that she feels like she is in her element when she is around kids and it doesn't matter how many kids there are, they are just special. Brandon says that he loves kids but little babies are different. He reveals that he feels that he is going to break it somehow. The couple had a lot of fun watching their niece.
The whole family gathers at the house to celebrate the September birthdays and play games. There is a phrase "New Mini Sequel Releasing in April" that stumpes the whole family. They know it's an announcement but aren't sure what it means. Bobby heads up to the white board and writes "Tori is expecting".

Lawson says one of these gatherings, he will have a big announcement of his own.

Later it's time for Gil to have surgery. Lawson says that his father has always been Mr. Invincible but seeing him in this state has been unique. The doctor is able to put Gil and Kelly at ease. The couple films a video to send to the kids before the producedure and Gil makes sure to tell everyone that he loves them if he doesn't wake up.

It's time to reveal the gender of Baby Stewart. Carlin can't wait to hear the news. She thinks that it's a boy but there is a trend of girls going so it's like a girl season. Everyone gets a water gun full of paint and shoots it at the parents and it's pink. Kelly teases Gil by telling him to eat his words because he kept saying that it's a boy. He suggests that maybe he got his wires crossed and Tori will be the one having a boy.

Recap: Texas or Bust?

Just a quick reminder that Trace and Chaney are no longer together. Be sure to check up their relationship update post that we made back in February 2020.

Now on to the recap:
Trace heads over to his older brother's house to talk about his trip to Texas. For almost nine months, Trace has been talking to Chaney for everyday but one. He reveals that he is nervous as he is about to ask Chaney to be his girlfriend.
Trace and his parents arrived to the Kahle family home in Colleyville. He tries to play it cool but it's not any other trip. They give side hugs to Chaney and her family. Chaney's family are also homeschoolers and have the same competive spirit as the Bates family.
Chaney's father says that they should go electric go-karting at K1 speed to start the visit. Kelly is not a fan of going fast because she doesn't want to get hurt. She wants to drive her own car so she can control the speed.
At the end, Chaney ends up in first while Trace is in second. Trace praises her character. The families end up going to Tex-Mex since the family loves mexcian foods.
Trace reveals that he would consider moving to Texas and Zach knows that his brother won't be able to hang out at his house.
Kelly suggests tomorrow that they go on a pinic. Chaney's mom and sisters are making plans for the special moment with Kelly while the others head to the batting cages. Trace steps aside with her father to get permission to ask Channey out. He agrees to it but reminds Trace that he raised them to stay close.
Kelly and the girls are setting up for the pinic near the water. Kelly reveals that her son doesn't want it over the top that it would look like an engagement. The couple arrive and are blown away by the set up.
After they eat, the couple takes a walk and stop at a spot covered in flower petals. It is close enough for Trace's parents and Chaney's family to see them. Trace reveals that Chaney is his best friend and he wants to take the next step so he asks her the special courtship question. She agrees to the courtship. Trace gives her flowers and a bracelet and they share a few front hugs and start holding hands.

Recap: Happy News and Health Concerns

It's to check up on baby Stewart so Evan and Carlin are heading to the doctors. Carlin reveals that she is still shocked that she's pregnant. Lawson says that the couple are ready to be parents. Dr. Vick meets with them and reveals that Carlin has the same blood clotting disorder like her older sister. She will need to take blood thinners to prevent the baby getting a blood clot. As many of you know that Erin suffered three miscarriage before learning about the disorder. Evan admits that he is nervous but know that her side is worst than his. He will be giving his wife a shot twice a day along with Carlin taking pills. Kelly reveals that no one wants to hear that there is a health risk but knows that it's life saving for the baby and Carlin.
The girls head over to show off the warehouse now that Chad is almost finished with it. The warehouse is housed in Zach and Whitney's backyard and recently a carport.
Kelton and Bobby are working together at The Plumbing Authority. Bobby is a apprentice and has been working in the office. He reveals that he loves learning about this stuff from Kelton.
Gil and Kelly head to Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic to talk about Gil's shoulder pain. Gil's shoulder snapped at 80 pushups because he challenges the kids to do as many of pushups and he will do double but with one arm. The surgeon reveals that he could settle for rehab but he will never have strength to lift out in front of his body which causes an issue with the family business. The recovery time for the surgey will be four and half months and Gil and Kelly get on board with the surgery.
Kelly says that her husband is tough as nails but no guy likes to go through pain. Gil reveals that he is a big crybaby.
Tori and Josie take their babies for a walk and Tori reveals that she is pregnant to her sister since she can't keep a secret.
Josie was so happy to know that her sister is expecting however she knows that she has to keep it a secret expect for the fact that no one is good at keeping a secret.

Recap: First Home and Strict Chaperones

Before we start tonight's recap, we do want to remind our readers that Trace and Chaney did break up in early February. You may click here to read the update.

Tori has Bradley, Kaci, Carson and Brooklyn over at their apartment. She has been working on homeschooling the four little ones. She enjoys it along with Kade since he gets so excited when they arrive. Tori says that it's a little kind of crazy but it's fine. Tori knows that she has to be one step ahead of them.

Kelton and Josie are working on their new house. They managed to close on the house just ten days after they welcome baby Willow. They have the help of Kelton's father, Lawson, Chad, Warden and Kelton's brothers. They managed to put up the load-bearing beam. Kelton knows that it's a blessing to have family that help.
The next day, Evan and Carlin arrive to help with the electrical and painting. Josie says that it's so much fun to have a sibling going through the came thing.
The girls head for a photoshoot at the Boutique but have found a issue. The girls are short and people want to know what a tall person would look like in a dress. They invited Chaney to help them out. Chaney says that the girls have made her feel so comfortable and special.
Later, Trace and Chaney go on a bowling date with his little brothers, Jeb and Judson, as chaperones. Chaney manages to win as Jeb puts himself between them. She says that Gil and Kelly would be very proud of how strong Jeb was today since he really held up the chaperone rule.

Recap: A Busy Business and a Baby Bombshell

Chad and Erin head to have an ultrasound for their little one on the way. They have chosen the name Holland Grace. With all of their children, Erin has chosen the first name while Chad had chosen the middle name. Erin is currently at 22 weeks and five days pregnant. Chad reveals with each pregnancy there is still a fear since they lost their first three babies to miscarriage. He also says that hearing the heartbeat and seeing the baby is a peace of mind every time. Erin says that she loves her life and their family. She is excited about the change when they get another baby. Chad thinks that they are crazy and every time he thinks about the baby he gets as excited as the one before.
Michaella heads to the cosmetology school where Katie puts caramel highlights in the back section. She wanted to look fancy when she puts her hair up at school. Katie is currently in her last sememster and is studying for the state boards. Katie reveals that she wanted to go into nursing but changed it to cosmetology. She reveals that she wants to still do nursing.
Michaella will earn her LPN in about 11 months and will continue to pursue her RN depending on the circumstances. She also reveals that she and Brandon do not plan on moving back to Chicago but there is a chance that they will move somewhere else.
Katie reveals that there is a special someone that she has been talking to for about two months. They are both currently 18 and she knows that she needs to do some adult mind maturing. They are currently taking it slow since they don't want to rush it right now. Katie is working on finishing school and getting it together. Katie reveals that they met through a mutual friend and that he is the sweetest human ever.
Katie ends up making a small mistake and gets some toner in her sister's eye. Michaella is happy with her hair and so is her husband.
Brandon and Michaella head over to help the girls unpack the new shipment of dresses. The boxes are over taking Whitney's house and they are working on building a small warehouse for the business. Zach says that they should have name the company Bates and Company because they have everyone in the family helping them.
The family gathers for a grill and hanging out. Zach is the new grill master and tries to help Gil with some pointer. Gil thinks that every time that the boys get married they think that they know everything. Zach is trying to tell him how to cook. The family agrees that Gil is not the best at grilling.
Evan brings out the pinata to celebrate the August birthdays but forgets the bat and a string. The kids take turns at kicking it while Nathan holds it. When it finally breaks open, candy and baby figures come out. Carlin and Evan found out that they were expecting right around father's day.

Recap: A First Time for Everything

Today is the day that we have been waiting for Bringing Up Bates is back. Be sure to check out the preview from Tuesday to read what this episode was about. Now time for our recap:

Evan and Carlin just got married and are excited to celebrate their wedding. Michaella says that it was so much joy to see her sister so happy.

The couple set off for Charleston, SC for the first stop in their honeymoon. They take a carriage ride before heading a rooftop restaurant with a beautiful view. The waitress bring mocktails where Carlin reveals that they are nonalcoholic. The couple heads to go crabbing with a little competion. Evan ends up winning that. The couple embark on a private sailboat where they take a photo like the movie Titanic.

Back home, Chaney arrives with her family to spend time with Trace and his family. (Not to confused the fans, Trace and Chaney have broken up since this episode was filmed. Chaney has six siblings. The Kahles family are also homeschoolers and fellow Christians. The two families play bocce ball. Lawson says that his brother is one of the more athletically talented Bates also Chaney is also athletic. Katie is excited that her brother has a girl since it's been a while.

Zach and Whitney head to the ultrasound to see baby Khloe. They bring Bradley and Kaci along. Zach says the baby is always moving and kicking.

Kelly heads over to Josie's to help pack the hospital bag. Kelly offers her daughter some advice not to feel bad if she gets an epiduarl. The girls head to have lunch with the Bates girls while Josie goes over her birth plan. She reveals that the birth team will be Kelton, Kelly and a doula. Erin's chat with her husband is priceless. Erin says that her husband has always been her doula but she thought that doulas are girls. Chad jokes that this one isn't. Erin adds that her husband is a good looking doula.
Kelton and Josie head over to meet with their doula, Renee, to talk about stages of labor and positions. Josie says that Kelton thought that it was only two or three hours but it could be an all day long or longer. Josie says that her mom made pregnancy and labor and delivery look easy and then she there and it's harder. Kelton is still a little terrified but ready. He is excited about it.

Josie has started the labor progess. The couple has choosen not to have the film crew or other family members besides Kelly there. After 36 hours, the medical providers urge Josie to have her water broken and get pitocin or have an epidural. Josie has picked to get an epidural which scariest parts for Kelton because it was one of the factors that the doctors could not be able to catch signs that cause his mother's  death.

Gil and Kelton's father were waiting in the hallway and in the waiting room. He knew that Kelton was nervous and so was Mr. Balka since the last labor was the time his wife passed to be with the lord.

Josie was able to close her eyes and relax and after two days in labor, she gives birth to Willow Kristy Balka. Gil says that it's amazing to see his child grow up and have a little baby.

Before they know it, the new family of three has return back home and adjusted to their new life. Gil and Kelly brings several of their kids to the apartment to say hi.

Zach holds baby Willow and Whitney falls in love with her husband all over again. She loves watching her husband with a newborn. She can't wait to have a newborn in their house.

The couple are about to close on their first house and they need all hands on deck to help them prepare it so they can move in.

November Recap

This month, the Bates family celebrated Alyssa, Kade and John's birthdays. They also welcomed Khloe and Holland into the world.

 They celebrated Thanksgiving.

Bringing Up Bates ended it's eight season on November 21st. The 9th season is schedule to air in January.

We shared our December birthdays and anniversary cover on November 24th.