To make it easy to search this post, I have added a * before each episode title. On your PC, hit CONTROL and F to search. On your Mac, hit COMMAND and F. Then you can type in a * and see where each episode begins.
*Episode 1: Joy’s Wedding
Opens in Arkansas at Cross Church: Pinnacle Hills. Shots of the exterior of the church and the large “Amazing Grace” sign which will be the backdrop, the programs and flowers, and Austin getting out of his truck with a bunch of suits in his arms. He walks in and meets Laura, the wedding coordinator who asks how he’s doing and says she has the rings. He asks about the Marriage Certificate, it is onstage and ready to go, she says.
Joy arrives with only a small bag. “You ready for this” a producer asks. “Yup! I’m so ready.” Joy walks in and sees Austin, hugs him and says she loves him and missed him. They check in and we get more shots of the programs on the table. Joy is excited that today is the day and both say they are so excited. They are most looking forward to saying their vows and putting the ring on her finger and they say the first kiss will be exciting as well. Austin reminds us that they’re breaking the tradition of not seeing each other on the wedding day. Shots of decorations.
Miss Cindy introduces herself and is setting up the stage with Jennifer Hartono. The inspiration for the wedding style is a quote from Austin about Joy: “ She’s a beautiful Godly girl running barefoot through an open field of flowers.” They decided to bring the outside inside to the cathedral. Cindy has Jennifer make boutonnieres for all 12 (!!!) groomsmen and a special one for Austin.
Joy walks to the bridal suite and is laughing and joking around as she does. Laura the wedding coordinator says the biggest challenge is getting everyone where they need to be because Joy has such a large bridal party. The bridesmaids are in the bridal suite getting ready and reminiscing as seen in the promo video. We see Kendra getting ready as well and then Jessa talks about remembering her wedding. Renee is there with Joy’s gown; She did Jinger’s as well. Jessa and Jinger get ready together and reminisce,which is sweet. Sierra and Kendra are getting ready together. Jinger recalls her own wedding and Joy gives out bridesmaids gifts, which are cute hair ties and say “To Have and To Hold Your Hair Back.” Jenni has her hair done and is sweetly excited. Sierra helps Kendra with her hair. Jill says the little baby is doing well today and so is she. Joy is pretty calm and chill.
We move to the groom and his entourage getting ready. The best man (Austin’s brother-in-law) says they need to be ready in four minutes--they manage to get themselves together. The groomsmen share about Austin since we don’t know him at all. Cindy comes in to pin their boutineers, and jokes if she sticks them, it will just make them tougher. Austin’s boutonniere has orange while all the others have only white roses. She pins each of the groomsmen and John David pretends to get stuck and flinches when he is pinned.
This is the odd moment when Joy comes over to see Austin. She asks him if he likes her hair the way it is or if she should change it. He says she should do it how she likes it and asks about a veil. She asks if he thinks she should and he says it’s really up to her. Laura comes over to get Joy and Austin calls her a “fiesta pooper”, which is the most personality he has shown so far. They hug and joy goes to put her dress on. Kendra comes over to see Joe. He is still in a t-shirt and jeans. Kendra is in her bridesmaid’s dress with her hair all fixed. Kendra says it is so special to be in the wedding and that she and Joy are such good friends. Kendra giggles and talks about the future and what may be happening in the future. They see Pastor Caldwell and walk over to say hi. In a talking head he says this is an exciting day because they will be getting a little bit closer to the Duggar family. Joe tells the camera his proposal plan: Joy will pretend to throw her bouquet but will instead hand it off to Kendra and then Joe will come out and propose.
Back in the bridal suite, Joy kicks out everyone but Michelle and Renee to get her gown on. There bridesmaids gather around for the reveal. They are so excited to see her in the gown. She does look nice here, but her hair is starting to fall out of the waves. The bridesmaids all agree she should wear a veil. Joy says she has swatches from her mom, her grandma, and Miss Roxanne's dresses sewn into her dress. Jim Bob does his usual canned wedding reaction and is in his usual grey wedding suit. Previous Duggar brides have seemed over Jim Bob, but Joy seems pretty over both of her parents for most of the wedding episode, in my opinion. They take a few pictures.
Outside, the guys are taking pictures. They take some nice ones and some silly ones. Bobby, the best man, is hilarious. The groomsmen say Austin is loyal and driven, that he has a purpose and a plan, and they finish taking pictures.
In the kitchen, the cupcake lady Sarah Everett is making absolutely massive numbers of cupcakes. She did Jill & Jinger’s weddings as well. There are lemonade, orange creamsicles, vanilla, and chocolate and maybe more that I missed.
The girls take pictures and they are having fun. Jill mentions her wedding and all the sisters remark on how chill Joy is. Jinger mentions that Jenni is so excited to be a bridesmaid for the first time. Jenni is my favorite part of this whole thing and she is SO cute throughout.
Laura, who is kinda wearing white which I still think is no bueno, has the groomsmen get in their places. Someone joking tells Austin loose knees so he won’t lock his knees and pass out on stage.
It’s 6:13 and Joy, who is almost done being a Duggar, is done with “Duggar Time” and starts telling everyone to go down towards the entrance to the sanctuary. Joy also keeps telling Jim Bob it’s fine and that she is gonna stand right there. She totally bosses him around and he actually does listen to her and she looks so ready. We see shots of people filing into the church. The music starts and Joy is finally nervous.
It’s aisle time. First, the grandmothers are escorted in. Then the bridesmaids and groomsmen make their way down the aisle. Some of Austin’s friends are pretty cute. I think his grandfather may be a groomsman, which is precious. Jill walks down the aisle alone as MOH. Then we had the ring bearer & flower girl who is so serious about throwing those flowers. Austin walks down with Michelle and his mom, with his dad following behind. The best man and Pastor Caldwell take their places and it’s time for Joy’s big walk. Austin gets teary eyed as she comes in. Jim Bob gives Joy away and Austin helps her up the stairs.
The wedding ceremony is about what you would expect. Pastor Caldwell talks about the symbols within the marriage ceremony. Then they sing a hymn: “Jesus is All the World to Me”. John David very seriously conducts the congregation in this hymn and Joy and Austin sing while holding hands. Pastor Caldwell says marriage is a covenant; they say they understand the weight and Austin takes their vows out of his pocket. They read vows & exchange rings. They sign the marriage certificate and Joy says, “I can put my name now, can’t I” and Austin says “Joy Forsyth? Yeah” and Joy gets the nicest smile on her face. Really that was a great moment. They pray with their parents.
Pastor Caldwell pronounces them husband and wife. Joy & Austin both loudly clear their throats which is cute and they have the first kiss which is better than Derick & Jill’s, but still a little too much. They try to leave, but Pastor Caldwell stops them and says: “I’ve got one more thing to say, Pastors are never done” which is funny and then says “For the very first time, Mr. & Mrs. Austin Martyn Forsyth” and Joy whoops and they run off. There is a surprise confetti drop and Joy says “What was that? Oh my cow” which is also great.
John David now says the best line (oh my cow is a close second) in the whole episode. “It’s really strange seeing my little sister get married but it’s really neat, I think it’s great. But I'm just holding out, you know, bachelor till the rapture, I guess.”
The rest of the wedding party processes out and it’s reception time. The family compliments the wedding, people eat cupcakes, and generally mill about and socialize. Jim Bob jokes that it gets better every time, Kendra jokes that that’s because everyone knows what to do now, and Jim Bob jokes back that in five years when they get married everyone will REALLY know what to do. Way to throw her off the scent, Jim Bob. Smooth.
The best man comes out and introduces Mr. & Mrs. Forsyth for the second time. They thank everyone for coming. They cut the cake with lots of laughter, talk about how they enjoyed the first kiss and kiss again after feeding each other cake. Now it's time for the bouquet toss, aka Joe's proposal time. Jana brings Kendra to the front with her. Joy says “Y’all ready” and pretend to throw it but instead turns and hands it to Kendra. Kendra is surprised but seems to think this is just a sweet gesture until Joe comes forward. Kendra was shocked and pretty excited as Joe puts the ring on her finger. Michelle gushes about Kendra, her family, and the upcoming wedding. They actually have the look Ben & Jessa had after engagement where they look like they really want to kiss but Austin comes over with a helpful “no kissing” tease.
The producers ask if Cindy will do their wedding and she jokes that she doesn’t know but the stage is set if they just want to go right in which was funny. Austin and Joy bring Joe and Kendra up on stage and announce the good news. Austin says it doesn’t take away, it just adds. They talk about how fast their relationship has gone and how crazy it all is that just six months ago, things were starting to pick up. We see wedding pictures, and the screen says 6 months earlier…and then the second hour of the premier begins with a more routine episode.
*Episode Two: Triple Date Night
Six Months Earlier. At the Duggar House, Joy, Jill, Jessa, Israel and Spurgeon are in the girls room planning for a triple date.They look through clothes for Joy to wear. The girls have separated clothes since Jill and Jessa got married. The sisters say her sense of style is chill, "just Joy". Joy says she tries to wear what Austin likes. They ask him to describe her style in three words and he says “I love it” which is clever. Joy is wearing dresses now, because Austin likes them. The producers ask if she will wear a dress on her wedding day and she says she will wear a wedding dress on her wedding day. After looking through her wardrobe, the sisters decide to go shopping. Jessa is 32 weeks pregnant at that point, nothing fits and she’s getting tired and worn out. They say they know the gender, so do Joy and Jana, but are keeping it a secret until birth. (Spoiler: it’s a boy). Jill is pregnant and having bad morning sickness but she hasn’t announced it yet so we’re pretending it's a secret. They go shopping and talk about missing Jinger
Meanwhile in Laredo, Jinger makes breakfast tacos for Jeremy. She talks about living in Laredo and getting used to the weather. She is used to having one other person at the table and limiting the amount she cooks and buys. Jeremy says that this kind of breakfast is something he never did when he was single. Jinger says it’s quiet there, which is the biggest difference. Jeremy does the dishes and laundry while Jeremy works at his desk writing sermons. Jeremy mentions that he doesn’t think she knew how much he sings around the house before marriage; she says she likes it because she isn’t used to the quiet. Producers ask Jill and Derick and Ben and Jessa what they learned about each other when they got married. Jessa said Ben used to bang his toothbrush on the sink after brushing his teeth which got toothpaste on the mirror, he says he’s better about that now. Derick and Jill say talking in their sleep, which apparently Izzy does as well. Jeremy says that as a pastor he writes sermons, meets with people and plans outreach. He says he does 30-40 hours a week working at home at his desk. Jinger talks about the laundry back home and now she does it less here but it is a trek now because she has to go down to a laundry room at the apartment complex. She says she misses her family in particular little Spurgeon and Israel. They are glad they don’t have to say goodbye anymore.
Jill, Jessa and Joy are shopping in a little boutique. They miss Jinger, the most fashionable one. They browse the selections in the store. Jill says it's good to add an outfit every now and then, but right now they’re shopping for Joy. Jessa tries to get Jill to smell a candle and Jill talks about being sick. They show the old prairie dresses and joke about how their style has changed but modesty standards have remained. They find a basic black dress and two different tunics for Joy. They ask the boys in the talking heads to name fabrics and they aren’t too sure about that. The girls leave the store happy.
We spend some time on Derick’s gagging issue. He goes to an Asthma and Allergy specialist to try to find more answers. It looks like it’s not asthma, but the doctor does have an idea of what it could be: Allergies. He lists meat, milk, peanuts, soy and a lot of grasses, in particular ragweed. The doctor thinks it might be eosinophilic esophagitis which is when allergies cause problems in the esophagus and she has a potential treatment that goes under the tongue. For the first treatment, he will need to be observed in the clinic before they return to Central America. Jill says it is hopeful but she doesn’t want to get her hopes too high because this has been a long journey for them.
Derick, Ben and Austin go to a trampoline park. They spend some time discussing the rules and horseplay on trampolines. They begin to jump and do an obstacle course. Austin shows up Derick and Ben at every turn. After, they sit and have some water and a chat. They ask Austin about what drew him to Joy (surprise, surprise, he says her character and maturity). Derick says that will help them through the hard times and Jill talks about how she got pregnant right away and was pretty sick for the beginning of their marriage. Ben asks about future plans and Derick says “what he means is when are you and Joy getting married.” Austin tells a story about how when he was 17 he asked his dad what he should do to show he is ready for marriage; His dad said he should flip 5 houses before he got his blessing. Austin jokes that he probably thought he would just have to become a monk but he is now in the process of flipping his fifth house so the marriage will come soon. The guys think this is a great story and they say that Austin is a great guy. Austin is glad he got to know them better.
Triple Date time. The girls are taking too long to get ready, and Jill is sick and running a little late. Joy is wearing one of the tunics they got. Jessa waves Joy’s hair while they wait for Jill. Austin, Ben and Spurgeon hang out and chat while they wait. Derick reminds us of the two previous triple dates: etiquette class and the handcuff obstacle course. While Jessa fixes her hair, Joy asks Johannah and Jennifer to go find her shoes- apparently despite multiple attempts to organize, all the family members shoes end up in one big pile. Johannah and Jennifer are old enough to be into Joy courting according to Jessa. The girls can only find one. There’s a lovely moment where everyone says girls take longer to get ready, except for Jessa, who says sometimes Ben takes longer to get ready than she does because he irons everything which I dunno if it is just me but I find the image of Ben ironing his boxers. HILARIOUS and hope he really does iron “everything”
Joy goes down with one shoe, greets Austin, and then the two of them go to the shoe pile and -romantically- search for her missing shoe. Jessa and Ben talk about how relaxed Joy and Austin are and how they don’t SHOW the butterflies like previous couples have, perhaps because they have known each other for so long. Jill and Derick arrive and the couples go on a date.
The date begins with Joy and Austin reminding us of the courtship rules and all the couples talk about the value of the courtship model (not Anna, funny enough). They arrive at the restaurant and Austin talks about how he always enjoys spending time with Joy. Jill tells Derick he can’t get fish (because she’s pregnant, haha.) The five houses goal comes up again and they ask him about the flipping process and how they’re working on house number 5. Austin asks for wisdom from the other couples. Derick says to have good foundation, Jessa says don’t try to change the other person because you married them as they are (which is actually great advice I think), Jill says that other people may get jealous when you guys get closer to each other than everyone else but you’re gonna spend your life together that is what’s supposed to happen, Ben says think of the other first. All the marrieds are happy for Joy and Austin. It was really neat, according to Derick.
In the last eight minutes of the two hour long monster episode, Jill reveals she is pregnant to Israel and then to the rest of the family. Israel doesn’t really seem to get it but he hugs and kisses a baby doll as they try to explain to the pregnancy basics to Israel. Jill is having pretty rough morning sickness. Israel plays with the baby doll and Jill and Derick remark that he will be a good big brother even if it will be hard for him to share his parent’s attention. Derick jokes that his attention span is too short and he is easily distracted. “If he sees a grilled cheese, the baby is out the window.” I, too, have similar options of grilled cheese. Israel gives Jill the baby doll and tries to steal Derick’s coffee. They give him the “Awesome Big Brother” t-shirt and they decide they will share the news with the family at thanksgiving when asked what they are thankful for.
This is a different thanksgiving because many siblings were traveling and so the Duggars went on a trip to Branson, Missouri and that is where they do thanksgiving. The older sisters and Jill’s buddy team know the news when Thanksgiving rolls around. The Dillards show everyone Israel at Thanksgiving Israel in his t-shirt. It’s pretty anti-climatic at first, and then Michelle figures it out and gets very excited. Very dramatic music plays until Michelle reads it and exclaims “A New Dillard!” Jim Bob doesn’t get it at first but then he is pretty excited to hear the news. Jill says the siblings will be 27 months apart. Jill says she admires how her mom raised 19 kids (by using her other children to raise the younger ones I guess?). Jill and Derick will return to Central America but be back for the birth. Joy says Jinger is next, Jana agrees, but the couple is awkward.
*Episode 3: Spurgeon’s First Birthday
We start in Laredo, and Jinger and Jeremy are going to a local market to go shopping. Jessa says she misses Jinger and wants to visit but is letting them have their time as a couple, but she is sure it's easier for newlywed Jinger. Jinger notes that Laredo is primarily Spanish speaking and they need to learn. Jeremy just gets really excited about mozzarella and buys five pounds. He insists they have a shredder. The butcher helps Jinger choose meat for fajitas and the Vuolos check out. Jinger says shopping for two has been an adjustment. Jinger makes fajitas while Jeremy works out. She watches him workout with-dare I say- lust in her eyes and complimenting him along the way. He is totally working out in like, normal pants which I think I odd. What Jeremy thought was a shredder turns out to be a vegetable peeler so Jinger cuts the cheese in slices. In a year, Jeremy says they would like to be working in ministry in Laredo like they are now. In five years, they’d like to start a family somewhere along that timeline. If y’all decide waiting is best for you despite all your family’s pressure, I will be so proud of you both.
Jessa is going consignment shopping for kid’s stuff with Anna & Jill. They get their measurements, take footprints for shoe size, and put the kids down for a nap. With all six kids, getting a nap is a challenge in the Seewald’s little house. Eventually Israel & Spurgeon do go down. Jessa says they will need a bigger house soon- and they should start up with a little fixer upper. Ben asks who will fix up the fixer upper-Jessa say us!- Ben isn’t too sure about that one. Anna says they should all bring double strollers to share her kiddos, but neither Jill nor Jessa has a double stroller yet.
Austin is installing flooring at the Fifth House. They put in laminate and discuss some details of the house project. Austin talks about how well the courtship is going, and Joy says she could see them flipping houses in the future. Austin’s dad is there as chaperone but Austin jokes that it works out because he gets a lot of work out of his dad. His dad retells the five houses story, but adds a detail that he could start a relationship after he finishes the fourth house. The day that house sold was the day he asked Jim Bob to court Joy. Austin and Joy are ridiculously sweet throughout this scene, distracting each other, Austin showing Joy how to do the floors and gosh darn it I LIKE AUSTIN I DID NOT PLANNING ON LIKING HIM BUT THEY ARE GREAT TOGETHER IT SEEMS. Producers asks what the plan is after the house sells and they giggle and Joy says, “Yeah, what is the plan?” Austin says he is still planning the engagement and practically says there’s still a lot to do with the house.
Anna, Jill and Jessa are taking all six kids to the consignment sale. The talking heads glows over the “buy used sell the difference” thing and then Jessa & Jill get double strollers. Then, the moms hit the clothes racks. Izzy is not happy his mom is taking so long and Spurgeon is a little fussy as well. Anna manages her kids sweetly and quietly while she shops but Meredith is pretty fussy. Jessa says she needs some of Anna’s patience. Marcus slips and falls and gets a huge gash on his head. Anna says it’s so hard when emergencies happen and you’re right there and you couldn’t stop it. Jill reminds us she worked with the volunteer fire department and Anna & Jill go to the doctors for stitches and a concussion check. Jessa gets all the kids, checks out, and leaves. It’s kinda funny that she is overwhelmed with these kids considering her siblings, but they go to the main Duggar Compound.
Anna brings Marcus to the main Compound- no concussion but a few stitches. Jill praises Anna’s grace under pressure and the girls talk about how it can be so hard when you can’t protect your kids.
Joy assembles the younger Duggars to help with Spurgeon’s first birthday party, which Jessa has put her in charge of. Because his birthday was the same day as Jinger’s wedding, this is a belated birthday. They are going shopping for decor and food. Joy has helped Sierra but this is her first party on her own. Joy & the kids get in the van. Jinger used to be the shopper, but now it falls to Joy & Jana to take on her responsibilities as well as their own. Yay. At the store, they get stuff for a smash cake. Jill and Jana say Joy is the organized who delegates and stuff done. Jessa jokes that Joy is more tender and compassionate than she was- I love that she knows herself and jokes about this. Motherhood looks great on you, Jess. They get frozen fruits to make homemade sorbet. Then they check out. Joy says “Have a Blessed year" to the cashier.
Back at the house, the Duggars start decorating the house for the party. Jessa says Joy offering to do the party was a big relief for her. Some of the older boys say Joy handles pressure well. Joy puts streamers up but Josie & Jordyn are struggling to share. The producers ask how many birthdays the Duggars have celebrated and none of them can do the math. Joy and Michelle make the sorbet while Jordyn steals frozen fruit. They put bounce houses up in the yard and Joy is getting nervous about the timing.
Ben’s family is at Ben & Jessa’s house. They have moved into Little Rock and talk about city living. Ben and Jessa gush about Ben’s mom, which is sweet. They talk about Spurgeon’s life and how exciting finding out they were pregnant was. Ben says its cute when he tries to say words, but he is not really walking yet because he thinks crawling is faster. They say they think Spurgeon won’t really know what's going on but he will hopefully like the smash cake.
Jessa thanks Joy for doing all the work and they blow out a candle for Spurgie and then offer him the cake. He really isn’t sure what to make of the cake. He doesn’t want to eat it but he does have blue frosting all over himself. Jessa and Ben say they both don’t like cake so much they didn’t even have it at their wedding. They may have passed it on.
They give presents and cards to Spurgeon and everyone describes him-basically as adorable, happy, etc. They FaceTime Jinger and Jeremy and they talk about missing each other and how hard it is being separated for the first big family celebration she missed. Jessa says she hopes to visit once her baby is born. Next, they take a photo with Jessa, Spurge, Grandma Duggar, Michelle and Guinn Seewald to show all the generations.
Next birthday, they will have two babies, Ben says. Next week will be Henry’s birth.
*Episode 4: A New Baby
We open at Jessa and Ben’s house, and Jill and Jana are feeding Spurgeon and he does a little dance after every bite. Jessa is on the couch, and says they will be listening to their babies heartbeats. Jill is in her first trimester; Israel doesn’t really get it yet. Jill is struggling with morning sickness and food aversions. Jana struggles to find the baby's heartbeat because the baby is small but they find the heartbeat and Jill is relieved just to hear the heartbeat. There is an old wives tale that higher heartbeat means girl, which is what they find, but clearly that was wrong. Jessa lies down and since she is further along, they find her baby’s heartbeat quickly. She says it's getting cramped in there and she is nervous about labor. Jessa says it’s crazy that she is already getting ready for their second baby when they’ve only been married for two years. Flashbacks to their wedding day; Jessa says her vows were her favorite part. Ben says learning to cook for two people was an adjustment, and that Jessa ate fast because she had to in her house to get seconds. Four months into marriage, they found out they were expecting Spurgeon. Ben says that Jill and Derick were before them in a lot of things and they gave lots of advice. Now, they will be able to give THEM advice. I appreciate sassy Ben.
Austin and Joy and Austin’s dad Terry are working on the infamous fifth house. They’re laying tile. Austin reminds us they are courting and they love being together. Joy reminds us of the five houses challenge before marriage. Producers ask if she is helping to move the fifth house along because of that, she says that might be a part of it but she loves working with him. This whole scene Joy and Austin look like they want to kiss so badly. Josiah says he likes Austin but the girls are all getting married and beating the boys. They have to adjust the tiles. Austin says he has learned a lot about Joy (he calls her a diligent worker, gross). Joy says she learned he cannot do two things at once and that he cannot talk and work. Austin says plumbing, trim work, carpets, hanging doors, and touching up paint is what’s left. Jessa says she thinks it won’t be very long before they’re engaged. The older Duggars make wild guesses about when the proposal will occur; They agree it will be sooner rather than later.
Jill and Izzy pick up Jessa and Spurge to go see a new house Jim Bob bought. Both families are looking for a house. Jill wants a US home base. Jessa and Ben need a little more room with only 1,000 sq ft. Jessa loves the small house, but it's not practical; they need a few more bedrooms. They arrive at the house and it’s in rough shape. There is a large hole in the ground; Jill and Jessa think it’s creepy. The front door lets in green light. There is a giant indoor pool that the house is built around. There are massive spiders in the pool. The house is falling apart a little and I am surprised they brought toddlers there. This house is a big project, and neither girl thinks they will take it on.
The sisters are going to video chat with Jinger. They connect and ask about life in Laredo--Jinger says this is their first video chat. Jinger asks about her sister’s pregnancies. Jinger says she misses staying up late with her sisters. She greets Izzy and Spurge, and Izzy keeps saying "Hola!" to her, which is sweet. Jinger says she has adjusted to Laredo, she’s gotten her bearings, but she misses her sisters. Jinger says her house is so quiet, and Jessa says that is exactly how it was for her in the beginning. She thinks that Jinger will realize as she moves out of the honeymoon stage and will begin to be more homesick. Jill asks if she’s pregnant. Jessa says you should let them tell you if they have news (hear, hear). Joy says she thinks there will be an announcement soon.
Jana is at Jessa’s house and they are getting her newborn stuff and birth supplies out of her shed. Jessa says it is feeling close. Jessa says she is not ready for labor and delivery again, but she is ready to meet the baby. They set up a swing as Spurgeon fusses; Jana says she thinks he will struggle when the new baby comes because he is used to being the center of attention. Joy says that it is always hard for each sibling at first. Jessa says she is trying to teach Spurgeon to be gentle, but it isn’t going super well. Jessa says that they are trying to come up with a baby name but they don’t have one in mind. Jana says she thinks it’ll take a while to name the baby. Jessa and Ben say no letter theme; Derick says right now they have a country theme and jokingly suggests Turkey or Nepal or Everest. Then Jana and Jessa start assembling the birth pack. They list items on the birth pack, like cloth pads and a bulb. Ben suggests that you need more snacks than you think for the birth. Jessa is more worried this time around for labor. Jessa labored with Spurgeon for 48 hours, but got more intense leading up the birth. Jessa says that was the most demanding thing they’ve walked through, Ben says he respected her after she went through all that. Jessa talked about losing too much blood last time and getting a transfusion at the hospital. Everyone says they are concerned after last time.
Sierra arrives at the house for the baby shower with a cookie cake. The shower will have 100-130 people. The theme is “showers” so they will make a sign with clouds. Jessa says when everyone wanted to do another shower, she didn’t want more gifts, instead there will be donations for a pro-life Pregnancy Center. Jana skirts around mentioning the pro-life shelter but Jessa comes out and says it’s name. For some reason, the party will serve fruit & veggie plates, meat & cheese plates, and lemon orzo soup. Dessert is the cookie cake and cupcakes in a jar. The siblings all help with decorations. Sierra and Joy snack and Sierra teases her about Austin. Sierra decides at the last minute to make her grandmother's brownie recipe. Jana and wedding coordinator Laura assemble the cloud decoration. Sierra arranges flowers, Joy does the meat and cheese tray.
In the big industrial kitchen, the kitchen is filling up with smoke. It’s Sierra’s brownies; they are dripping into the open. Jana just says it is baking off the drippings and it’s not a big deal, but to just open up the windows. Sierra switches to the ovens in the "pretty kitchen”. Sierra ices the cookie cake while Jana is finishing up the decorations. The soup is finished. People start arriving and Sierra puts the first guests to work. Jessa peaks in to the house and greets the guests. She thinks the decorations and cake are so cute. The moms chat about their pregnancies. Sierra has people eat, then they assemble gift bags for the pregnancy center. The girls talk about how grateful they are for the donations. The party ends with a prayer led by Grandma Duggar, which asks for a quick and easy pregnancy. Sierra declares the party a success.
At the main Duggar compound, the family is planning a gender reveal for once Jessa gives birth. They are gonna do a balloon drop instead of having Jordyn do it like last time because she was a part of Jessa’s buddy team. They put together one drop of pink balloons and one with blue. Jill shared her first gender ultrasound with her buddy team. With Spurgeon, Jessa and Ben found out but didn’t tell anyone. Jessa and Ben kept it a secret with this baby except for Joy and Jana who know the gender already but are keeping the secret. Joy told Austin and Ben has slipped up twice. Hardcore teasing about Jana seeing someone because she told someone as well but doesn’t say who. They string up the balloon drop and they are ready for Jessa to deliver.
It’s a few days from Jessa’s due date and she FaceTimes Jinger. Spurgeon is so happy to she her which is sweet. Jinger says she misses being close to Jessa. Jinger says she is busy with the ministry and they are trying to get geared up for their Spanish ministry. Jinger says living in Laredo, she really needs to learn Spanish. Jessa says she is feeling good and having a lot of Braxton-Hicks contractions. Jinger says unlike Jill she won’t really video call during the labor and delivery. They talk about a visit after the baby is born.
The fifth house is just about done and it does look nice. Small, but nice. He says it is about to go on the market. Jim Bob arrives and Austin shows him around. He says he has been wanting to talk to him about something. He reminds us of the fifth house commitment and asks for Joy’s hand in marriage. Jim Bob does his traditional hemming and hawing, and Derick and Ben totally give him a hard time about how he draws out these conversations (finally!). Jim Bob eventually gives him his blessing and Austin is almost crying in a conversation with the producer about how happy he is which is so sweet gosh darn it Austin I LIKE YOU AND I DO NOT WANT TO. Austin puts the house on the market and says he won’t ask until it sells.
At Jessa and Ben’s house, they are preparing to go to Tacos 4 Life. It’s lightly snowing as they walk in the restaurant. It was easier to go out with Spurgeon when he was smaller, but now he is very active. He is bigger and starting to talk. Ben says it is hard to see Jessa in pain and feels helpless during the birth but this time, he knows what to expect and he is gonna try to really help her get through it, which is nice. She hopes this labor won't be so long, she thinks that may have caused her blood loss. She says they will start labor at home, but if it looks like it will be drawn out she, will go to the hospital. This seems like a good plan. Jessa says that their first date as a family of three was at Tacos 4 Life. They had a busy first year with Spurgeon.
It’s the middle of the night, and we are at the Duggar home. Jessa’s water broke and so Joe is getting ice and running some errands for her. Ben says that while she was in the bathroom, she called and told him her water broke and things got intense. That was about 4 hours ago. Jana and Michelle head to her house, Jill is there. Contractions are two minutes apart and progressing regularly.
We are 4 ½ hours into the birth and it’s progressing rather quickly. Jana and Michelle arrive during her transition. Jessa says the contractions were the same as with Spurgeon, and they were awful. She has bad back labor. She says she’s not the person for this job, someone else should do it, jokingly. Jill says Jessa was amazing in labor. She is told it’s time to push and she is excited. Henry arrives and is immediately put on her chest and cries. Jessa and Ben both cry when the baby is in her arms. Ben holds the baby while Jessa delivers the placenta and he is nervous about blood loss again. Ben is queasy after the birth. Everyone is happy that the birth went so well. Spurgeon has slept through the whole ordeal.
Back at the main house, the little Duggars rise and everyone goes down for the balloon drop. Justin finds out the gender. Everyone gets a sticker and stands under the balloons of their chosen color. Most choose boy. Justin gets the call, teases them for a minute and pulls the balloons- the drops doesn’t really work, they all fall in the large plastic bag that was holding them up. Joy declares the gender reveal an epic fail but they all enjoyed it. The littles immediately pull down the pink one as well and being popping the balloons. Jennifer says she is excited in the least excited voice I’ve ever heard. Spurgeon is brought in to meet the baby and looks pretty confused. Spurgeon tries to take the baby from Jessa and he really doesn’t know what’s going on. He begins to fuss and cry. Jessa hopes her sons will have a similar relationship to hers and Jinger's which is so sweet. They keep showing the baby but Spurgeon doesn’t really have a concept of gentle so they don’t let him grab him, which makes him fuss. Ben says that this will be a hard transition. Izzy is sweet with the baby and shows where Mommy’s baby is in her belly and also calls it a basketball which is hilariously cute. Jill hopes her birth will go as smoothly as Jessa’s did this time. He is 8 pounds 11 oz and came after 5 ½ hours of labor. Recovery has been different with him, as well.
The Duggars are going to Jessa’s to meet the baby. Spurgeon is happy to see them. The younger kids pass the baby around. Grandma Duggar holds him as well. He is the first of the family to be born in February. This time it only took them 3 days to pick out a name: Henry Wilberforce. Jessa says he won’t go by Hank and scolds Ben (who didn’t realize that was a nickname for Henry) for using it. They say this has been a period of much change, tease Josiah maybe courting, before concluding the episode.
*Episode 5: A Boy or Girl for Jill?
Jessa is getting Spurgeon ready for the day while wearing Henry. She says they are adjusting to life as a family of four. Jessa says labor was a two day ordeal the first time, but the second one was much shorter and easier for her. We get a flashback to Henry’s birth. Jessa brushes Spurgeon’s teeth. Ben is back at work, and Jessa says she tries to sleep until Spurgeon wakes up and then get them ready for the day. Ben says one adjustment has been the fact that there are so many diapers now. Jessa says some days are easy and simple, but other days are more chaotic. Spurgeon fusses as she does the dishes. Jessa wears Henry constantly, and she says that was the best gift she received because she can have Henry constantly while she cares for Spurgeon. Spurgeon is adjusting ok, he is learning to share. Producers ask if Henry looks more like Jessa or Ben, some choose a side but most say a combination, Jinger says it's hard to tell at this point, Jessa says Ben. Ben says it can’t be easy for her when he is at work but he knows she has patience which is sweet. Both nap at once, so Jessa reads for a little.
In Laredo, Jinger and Jeremy are still enjoying married life. The amount of lustful eyes between these two make me think kiddos may not be so far off. They’re learning Spanish together. They practice with worksheets and talk together. Jinger says Jeremy makes everything exciting. They have flashcards so they use them to practice vocab words including el bebe, which causes Jinger to make a “babe” joke. Jeremy says they should take their cards to a mexican restaurant and try to order.
At Jill and Derick’s, Izzy is at the big house. Jill is four months along and they are quietly reading together. They are getting ready to go for an appointment. At their last wellness check, a doctor told Jill she should get her carotid artery in her neck checked by ultrasound just to be sure there was no blockage. That’s where they’re going today, because they will soon return to Central America and stay until Jill has to come home for the birth. The ultrasound tech checks the artery. Jill says the maternal side of her family has a history with aneurysm, which makes her a little nervous. The ultrasound results will be sent to her doctor to be read and then he will make a diagnosis. He will let them know.
At the main house, Joy is preparing to go see Austin. They have been courting for five months and Joy says it has been going great. She will be having dinner with his family; She is listening to a Christian marriage audiobook on the way there because she thinks Austin will be proposing soon. Austin reminds us of the five houses before marriage goal. Austin thinks the house will go quick because of the market right now and the price. Joy arrives at the Forsyth's house. Austin, his Mom Roxanne, his Dad Terry and his sister and her husband Bobby are in attendance. Joy says the families get along well because they’ve known each other for a long time. Joy makes Terry and Austin’s favorite cheesecake. Joy starts mixing and asks Roxanne if it is supposed to look like scrambled eggs; Roxanne says it’s supposed to be a little smoother and Joy says she thinks she messed up. Roxanne says that’s ok, it’ll taste good but not look good. It ends up smoothing out and looking good in the pan. Joy says Austin’s family requires smaller portions than her family, of course, which takes adjustment. The Forsyths live about an hour away from the Duggars and have a lot of land in the Ozark mountains. The guys feed the cows while the girls cook. Dinner is ready and the guys come in and start filling their plates. Terry says they’re a cute couple and pure before the Lord. Bobby says they are a great couple. Joy says right now their courtship standards require chaperones and no kissing. Joy brings her cheesecake over and everyone compliments her cheesecake. Austin says it just as good as his mom’s. Because of their heights Joy looks up at Austin and when they’re side hugging and she looks up at him they always look like they want to kiss. Austin says he hopes in the future Joy and his family can get together more often, Joy says “let’s get married so we can do it.” Joy says she hopes their next step is engagement -hint hint-.
Back at Jill’s, she will be getting her ultrasound results today. Jill says she is a little nervous. They arrive at the doctor’s office. The result is good, her carotid artery is normal and she is good to go to Central America. Jill jokes that she is glad she doesn’t have to give up all greasy food. Now that all is clear, they are ready to go back to Central America.
In Laredo, Jinger and Jeremy are at a restaurant and they’re gonna try to order in Spanish. Their server speaks to them only in Spanish; Jeremy manages to order water with lemon. The couple tries to figure out what she is asking and know it’s early on so if they’re just getting the gist of what she is saying, that’s good. She helps them out and they manage to order their food. TBH this went well, everyone was super respectful and trying to learn so I’m here for it. Jeremy says Jinger is modest about herself but he thinks her quick way of picking up Spanish is impressive, which is sweet. Their food comes and it’s correct so they’re proud of themselves. Jinger says practice is how you learn.
At Jill and Derick’s, they lay out a little boy outfit and little girl outfit. Michelle and Cathy Dillard are coming over for the gender reveal ultrasound. The Dillards are having a spy game/hunt for the little siblings to find the correct outfit for which gender it will be. Jill and Derick seem to be having fun with this, which is sweet. Jana, Jordyn and Jenni arrive; they’re watching Izzy for the appointment. Jill tells Jana about the mystery hunt, Jana thinks it’s neat. Michelle arrives separately (odd) and then Cathy arrives in a sparkly pink top so they joke about what team they’re on. Derick says boy, Jill says girl. They head off to the appointment.
In the exam room, Jill and Derick are excited. The siblings guess in talking heads, and it's about 50/50. Jill and Derick find out and head back to the house for the party. They set up the mystery game and hide clues around the house. There will be 2 teams with three clues apiece, which will lead them to the crib. Under the crib is the box with the bundle. The siblings arrive and talk about how unique and original this idea for a gender reveal is. Derick and Jill emerge with silly hats on with a box for each team, which has the first clue. Once a team finds the bundle, they will gather together to open it. Justin and James are the team leaders. Each team has either fedora hats & sunglasses with fake noses and the other has sherlock hats and googly eye glasses. Sherlock team looks behind a picture and find the clue. Fedora team goes to the piano bench. The game is reasonably competitive. Sherlock team’s second clue is inside an atlas. Fedora team’s second clue is in the dyer. Then they go to the bottom bunk of the bed. Sherlock team’s third clue leads to the coffee drawer and they run to the crib and find the bundle. Jordyn finds the bundle first so Sherlock hat team wins and Jordyn gets to open the bundle. Jordyn opens it and reveals that it is a boy. The family is excited for another boy.
Austin goes to the fifth house, which is under contract. They are just waiting for the closing date. Austin hasn’t told Joy this yet, and he will propose soon.
*Episode 6: Joy Gets Engaged
Austin has sold his fifth house, so it’s proposal time. This is one excited guy and he is ready to be engaged to Joy.
At Jill and Derick’s, Jill and Israel are preparing to return to Central America. Jill says they are taking advantage of their American comforts while they still can. Deena, Dan and Cathy (and her husband whose name I already forget) are coming over. Israel is really excited to see Deena which is funny. They are looking forward to spending that time before they go. Israel runs right into Meemaw’s arms. Israel says the prayer which is cute and then they eat. Jill says they have stuff to pass off to Cathy, including her engagement ring. She wears her wedding band in CA but she says the stone is a risk of having her finger cut off for someone to take it. She says they have some medical contact in Central America. They tell the family Samuel Scott will be the name of the next baby and they didn’t realize it but both names end in -el and apparently Hebrew names that end in -el have “God” in them. Deena and Dan says it will be hard to say goodbye but exciting when they come back. Cathy is so sad to miss time with Israel but she will keep up as best she can.
In Laredo, Jinger is getting gifts for her whole family to make a traditional Laredo care package for all the family back home. She gets little cowboy boots and moccasins for Spurge and Henry. Jinger says if the Lord blesses them with kids she knows where to go. Jana says its different not having Jinger around. She finds little gifts for her mom, for Joy and then she goes to the Candy store for traditional Laredo candy. She found hair bows for the kids and noise makers as well. Jinger says she now has everything covered and goes to the apartment. They pack the boxes up to send back home. Jeremy is worried about what all this shopping will look like at Christmas; Jinger is hopeful it will mean a lot to her family.
It’s crunch time for Jill and Derick’s packing. They are working through a list and Joy, Jana and Cathy are there. Jessa, Ben and the boys arrive to see them as they’re packing. They spend a little time together and then they have to go due to a Spurge meltdown. Joy, Jana and Cathy continue working through the list as Jill cuts Derick’s hair. (This is a satisfying moment) Derick says long hair on a man is distracting in Central America. Jill takes off a ponytail and then trims back down to a short length. They have a little fun doing different styles as she cuts it but she says she likes variety and change. Derick is back to a short length and it's time to see Israel. Israel has no reaction to the big change which is great.
Jessa, Ben and the boys arrive at the main house. Jinger’s packages have arrived. They talk about Henry’s personality so far he is loud and intense. They open Jinger’s packages which all the Laredo goodies including a dress for Josie, Mexican wrestling masks and the Mexican candy. The Duggars exhibit their usual cultural sensitivity by calling it different and disgusting. Jana is into it though, of course she is. They call Jinger and everyone talks to her but Jessa seems to miss her the most. She wants Jinger to meet Henry soon (naturally).
The day has arrived for Derick and Jill to head to Central America. Joy is sad that Jill probably won’t be around for her engagement. They say goodbye to the family and start heading off. Joe says it’s hardest this time because they will miss his new phase of life with Kendra. They say their final goodbyes and they head off on the airplane. They arrive in Central America and hug a lot of their friends and head off from the airport.
Today is proposal day. Austin is so, so excited and ready. They are heading up a mountain with his dad and Aaron, a church friend who he wanted to include. They’re gonna set up a spot to eat. Terry is excited as well. They’re trying to keep Austin busy so he doesn’t get too nervous. They load up a four wheeler and head up a mountain. Johanna and Jennifer having been asking to go horseback riding so that is how the proposal will begin. Jessa is distracting Joy right now. Austin is worried it won’t go well and about asking her even though he believes she will say yes.
At Jessa and Ben’s house, Joy is helping make lunch and spend time with Jessa. Spurgeon is a great distraction not gonna lie. Joy helps Jessa make up the bed and all the stuff that is harder to do with two kids. Henry is asleep. Jessa says it’s much harder to go out on her own with two kids- she hasn’t done it yet. There’s a fun discussion of how much snot and spit up is on the couch. Jessa isn’t worried about giving away the surprise because Austin didn’t tell her anything.
At Austin’s special hiking spot, they are preparing for the proposal. Aaron was selected to help because he gets stuff done. Aaron helps set up lights and a generator. Austin forgot the blindfold so Terri goes to get it and the ring.
Joy is great with kids, Jessa says. They tag team while the boys fuss. Joy says she is looking forward to being a mom and they will have as many kids as God wants them to have.
At the site, Austin tests the lights- they’re cute, with Edison bulbs and they set up as other ATV riders come through. It’s a public place so they can. Austin says he hopes there is no Plan B so he hopes it goes well.
At Jessa’s, Joy has finished making lunch. Jessa says she usually eats with two kiddos on her lap so this is nice. Jessa says this soon-to-be engaged status is exciting and she remembers when it was her.
Austin sets up a grill and tells Aaron to put the meat on at 4:40, 4:45 ish. They will get off their horses at 5pm. With that, it is set up and he heads down the mountain.
Jason arrives, he is gonna get the Jennifer and Johanna after the horse ride. Joy thinks that is all they are doing. Austin is nervous. Joy and the girls pull up and Austin says its surreal. They get on their horses. Austin says Joy makes him feel complete which is so sweet. Austin rides with Jennifer behind him, Johanna has her own and so does Joy. Austin took her to a few places along the way to show them around the woods and to try to psyche Joy out. They dismount a final time and Austin asks Joy is he can blindfold her. Then he leads her to the site. He keeps asking if she could see and she keeps saying no. Terry hands him the ring as they arrive and he gets on one knee. She takes the blindfold off and sees him on one knee (after asking about her hair first) and he asks if she will marry him. She says yes and they have a nice long hug. She starts to get really excited and they look like they want to kiss so badly! Terry is crying. Jenni is BEAMING which is even more rare. Austin says he is the 5th generation to own the ring, and it’s been passed down which Joy declares is neat. Austin says Aaron has made them dinner, so it’s time to eat with Aaron as chaperone. Terry, Jason and the girls head back down the mountain. Everyone says they will have a super short engagement. They enjoy their meal together under the lights. They’re excited to be engaged!
At the auto repair shop, Joe is going to ask Pastor Caldwell if he can court Kendra. He says (in fundie speak) that Kendra is totally wife material. Joe then awkwardly talks to Pastor Caldwell while he is actively repairing a car. Joe awkwardly asks if he can court Kendra, and Pastor Caldwell asks if they’re ready. Joe says they’ve talked quite a bit and they’ve connected well. Pastor Caldwell doesn’t toy with him as much as Jim Bob would. Pastor Caldwell says Joe is everything you could ask for in a son which is sweet. They talk about showing her around Springdale where they grew up and apparently Kendra says he could never surprise her (girl, I think you will be surprised in a couple months). Joe is excited for the future.
*Episode 7: The After Show
The Duggar couples arrive and get ready for their look back episode. Hair, makeup, wardrobe. Joy is grateful for the chance to reflect. Daphne Oz, our host, introduces herself to all the Duggars on the set. She is pregnant with her third baby and she says this episode will be fun for the audience and for the family.
The show opens and she asks Jinger and Jeremy about how it's nice to be back. Daphne says there was so much going on this season. She starts with Jessa- Henry is 4 months old and she says it wasn’t super difficult going from one to two kids and it's easier with Ben home in the evenings. Austin says he is encouraged to see the siblings with their kids and he thinks they can do it when the time comes. Daphne is talking really fast. Jinger talks about getting married and what it has been like in Laredo; they just bought a house and they’re moved in and decorated. Jinger says the house has a master bedroom, one bedroom is Jeremy’s study, one is a guest room, and one is full of junk. Jana says she will help them move it out if they need to -wink wink-. Jana says her garden and renovations are taking up most of her time. Joy and Austin have been married for 26 days and they’re just 3 days back from Switzerland, where they spent 10 days. Joe says he is excited about Kendra and they don’t have a wedding date picked out yet. They mention Jill and Derick, who aren’t here, and say they’re days away from having their new baby. John David says he’s been doing a lot of flying, volunteering and maintenance on their rental properties. Josiah said he just got his pilot’s license and he’s trying to keep up with John. It’s time for the clips to start. We start with Joy & Austin’s court-posal on the rock. The older siblings laugh and gush when he asks. Daphne says he showed them all up (true!) and then they had their first hug. Joy has liked him for four years so she was so glad when she knew he returned her interest. Jana teases her that she was not subtle and she used to write her name on the wall of rooms when Austin was around. She had a bad crush and the sisters caught on. Austin talked to Jana early on to see if it was just him or if something was going on. He and John were close before and Daphne asks if that transition was weird. Austin said in the beginning it was weird because he would ask John about relationships but John didn’t know he was interested in his sister. John David jokes that Austin asked for relationship advice from the guy who hasn’t ever been in a relationship. Jessa: Did you feel used? He used you to get to Joy! John: (good naturally) No, no. Courtship rule times- everyone is different. Courtship is much more romantic than friendship. Daphne says she had a lot of rules for herself but she broke them when it came to her husband because she knew he was the one She asks: “None of you ever broke any of your rules?” Commercial Break.
We come back to the rule question about no one breaking rules because they have more accountability. Ben says that he set these high rules and that it was God that helped them through the relationships. Plus they do short engagements because you know you’re gonna commit your lives to each other and then you just gotta do it and get married. John says that they know they do this differently than most of their friends and they’re trying to go about it in a way with as little regret as possible and Josiah says it is about respect. Joe says he and Kendra talked about their standards and they didn’t hold hands or say "I love you" until they were engaged because they didn’t want to get too emotionally involved until they won each other’s hearts.
Clip time- moving Jinger into Laredo. Books in the closet time & poor Jeremy’s Rembrandt painting. Jeremy says they bought their house to have room for the books. Jessa says Jinger let her be the bad guy and a lot of it was her idea. Jinger says if she is caught in the middle of Jessa and Jeremy, she’s probably gonna just be quiet but eventually take Jeremy’s side.
Jinger’s wedding clips- talking about her being the first to move away after marriage-the scene where they share with her during wedding planning. They joke about ugly crying because Jinger moved immediately and they didn't get to have the time together that they’re used to. Jinger says she had a lot of emotions about leaving and she misses rumors about the house and being close to everyone. Jessa says Jinger really is a role model in her sincerity. They say Joe won’t be the same because he won’t be going too far.
In the commercial, Jessa updates us about Samuel, which will totally not calm down the concerns many people are having about Jill’s health but she says mom and baby are both doing well.
Another clip is shown- about Duggar food- with pickles, Jim Bob’s tuna fish bbq, Jessa starting to cook the owner’s menu in her new oven,and of course,Tater Tot casserole. Jessa says so many people latched onto tater tot casserole they got sick of it after that was filmed.
Next clip- Jessa’s gender reveal. Jana and Joy are along for the ride. They show us Joy and Jana talking about how Joy told Austin and Jana told a mystery someone. Jessa said she assumed Joy would tell Austin. Jana told Jill and Derick (boo!) because they were gonna leave the country but their departure was delayed, so they were there. Jessa says there are so few surprises and if she had the patience, she would wait to find out herself.
Next clip- Jeremy’s golfing outfit, Jinger’s bridal jewelry, and joking about the first kiss. Daphne says their first kiss was very successful. Jeremy says they didn’t even talk about it; Jessa says it's such a natural thing, you just go for it. Joy and Austin say their bachelor(ette) weekend was a rafting trip and then they camped on the side of the river. It will be on the show.
Jinger and Jeremy’s wedding is the next clip shown, Jinger walks down the aisle and they show bits of the ceremony and the first kiss, which Jessa likes. Daphne doesn’t believe they didn’t talk about it. Jeremy said he was just feeling pure joy and the first kiss was amazing and like no one else was in the room. Joy says they starting courting right after the wedding and for JinJer’s wedding they kept looking at each other the whole time and not the ceremony.
Next it’s Jessa’s labor. Jessa is so cute watching it with a smile on her face ready to see herself meet Henry. Daphne makes a show of looking concerned and getting to hold him was the sweetest moment. Giving birth is the craziest experience, Daphne gushes. Jessa talks about how labor is never easy but this second one was much smoother. Ben says he feels like he wasn’t doing anything to help and he wants to make it stop. They ask Jana about birth and she says for her she’s gonna do something closer to a hospital like a birth center for her time around (!) Go Jana! Jinger says when she gets pregnant, she is nervous for that (Jessa says it is okay to go get the epidural! Surprising!) Joy says watching births terrify her.
*Episode 8: The After Show Part 2
The show opens with Jinger and Jeremy’s honeymoon and they show the chef Bec yelling at them for canoodling. They picked Australia for the view, good food, and a place to be together. On the honeymoon, Jeremy jokes, it was just the two of them and eight crew members. Who likes PDA the most? Jill and Derick, everyone agrees. The least? No one likes it the least, Jessa says, but it's hard to hold hands with two kids. Josiah says Joy and Austin would just stare into each others eyes pre-marriage (odd) and Joy says it only bugged him.
Another clip- Jessa dealing with having two kids and trying to feed Spurgeon. Jessa said it was a fairly easy transition, some days are harder than others, but she has the nap at the same time. Daphne asks if the siblings helped, and Jessa says not really, it's different with your own kids. Jana says as kids they looked forward to new babies coming home. They would take turns holding them. Michelle and Jim Bob bring Henry and Spurgeon down to join the party. “Spurgeon, do you want to hold the baby?” Jessa asks. “No” Spurgeon says, in a sweet little voice. GOODNESS I LOVE THIS CHILD. He starts taking apart the set and running around. Daphne asks who changes the most diapers? Ben says Jessa because he works. Jessa says when he is home, Ben changes them to make up for it. Jessa says it's about 7 diapers a day each, which shocks Jeremy. “I thought it would be like, three, four if you had a big lunch,” he jokes. Jeremy is a youngest child, they joke, so he doesn’t know. Daphne asks how Michelle makes sure the family stays together with everything going on- they get together at holidays and other opportunities and weddings. Jim Bob is asked if its different for a son getting married than the daughters-Jim Bob says when a girl leaves home you want to make sure it's the best situation for her (sorry lads, you’re on your own. fight it out) Daphne asks about the questionnaire and Jim Bob says he got it from another family and Jim Bob says it helps them talk about important things they might not otherwise discuss. Joy says Austin passed with flying colors. Daphne asked if anything on the show surprised them or was fun to watch as an audience member. Michelle says watching the honeymoon trips (Austin: did we forget to invite y’all? Joy: no we did not #sassysexualjoy). Next season they are looking forward to Joe’s relationship and maybe Joy and Austin will have a little one (Joy: what about Jinger and Jeremy?) Henry is seriously fussing so they break for commercial.
After the break, Kendra comes out and Joe smiles. they hug and he holds her hand. Jana jokes there’s room for Kendra to sit with her on the other side of the room but Joe says they can make room on his couch. Daphne asks what it's like joining this family, Kendra says she is enjoying it and he says it's great having her be almost-family. Kendra says she is the oldest of 7. Joy says she and Kendra were good friends before Joe and Kendra were even a thing, and Joy wanted to have her in the wedding even before the courtship and it all just worked out. Joe says he knew she was the one before they started courting and he was pretty sure she’d say yes when he proposed.
The next clip is Austin proposing to Joy, with the blindfold and everything. They are so sweet reliving it. Daphne jokes that at the end of the proposal it didn’t look 100% sidehuggy and Austin acts like that was a personal failing on their part. Austin says they’re humans, they aren’t perfect but they TRY and that was a hard TRY which is funny. Joy didn’t see cameramen, she says, but she was looking out for them. Good work, sneaky crew. She said not knowing she was filmed made it more special. Daphne asks Josiah and John David how they think Austin did, Josiah says he got the job done and John says “not as good as I’m gonna do,” to which Austin fires back, “John David’s had a lot more time to plan than I have.” Wow, it's actually really nice to see them acting like normal friends. Daphne asks when it's happening, and John says he’ll just keep teasing.
The next clip is from Joy and Austin’s wedding. They show the end of the ceremony, when Joy shakes her head no because Austin wanted to carry her out. Joy says the first kiss was on point. They decided Austin would lead, and Joy had seen some girls lunge for it (cough cough Jill) and she wanted him to lead. He says he was worried about chipping a tooth. Kendra says she likes Joy’s tip to let Joe take care of it.
The next clip is Joe asking Pastor Caldwell about courting Kendra. John jokes about how it takes a lot of courage to approach a guy with a wrench. Joe says he was working on his truck, so it was really intimidating. Kendra says she was worried about her dad saying yes to Joe and so she was glad he did too.
We are moving into the “Couples Showdown” to see which couple knows each other best. Jessa and Ben, Jinger and Jeremy, and Joy and Austin. The couples have little whiteboards just like the Bates newlywed episode.
First the ladies guess the guys answers.
Daphne says she feels like she knows them so much better now and she hopes they learned something. Austin and Joy got the most points in the end. The Duggars agree this was fun reminiscing.
Next season, Joe will court, Joy will plan her wedding , Jill is in Central America and pregnant, and Jessa and family will travel to Texas, and I will carefully recap Joy’s wedding for a second time. Looking forward to it, y’all.
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