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: La La Land
At the main house, Michelle is playing with Felicity as Jinger & Jeremy prepare to head to LA. They delayed their move due to Grandma's passing, which makes this move extra difficult. Jinger & Jeremy head off, and JB says their pace of life is going to pick up. Jinger recalls when she said it would be cool to marry someone who lived in a big city and getting to live in LA is even bigger than she had imagined. They head off, planning to make stops to break it the several-day journey. Jinger recalls her RV travel days, so she knows what to expect. She says it will be fun to make memories as the Vuolos. In Oklahoma, they make a pit stop to fill up on gas and change a diaper. Jessa tells a story from a drive when Spurgeon threw up all over his car seat.
Back in Arkansas, Jessa is cooking with Henry and Spurgeon while Ben and Ivy chill on the couch. Henry is talking more and Spurgeon likes to help out. Ivy is so chill and relaxed, she is an easy baby. Henry is delighted with his pancakes. Ben says he is going to trim his beard, and he thinks he might shave it off. He says it requires more maintenance at this length and it is time for a change. Ben is curious to see if he does it if the boys will recognize him with no beard. He calls Jessa over to show her his goatee look, and then he does a hipster mustache. Jessa thinks it’s cute and he should keep it. He decides to dress up and knock on the front door to see what the boys do. Ben comes in, full Irish accent going, and his kids are looking at him with a lot of doubt. When they go looking for their dad, they don't see him. Ben then shows them the video him shaving, and they realize that their dad is with them. Ben thinks he did fool Henry but he isn't sure about Spurgeon. Spurgeon tells Ben he likes his beard on. Ben says he is planning on growing it back but keeping it shorter.
Jinger & Jeremy arrive is Roswell, NM. Jeremy recounts the alien rumors about the town, and they are excited to check it out. They visit some kind of alien haunted house and take pictures with Felicity. Felicity laughs at the aliens. None of the Duggars believe in aliens, although Abbie just says "I feel like an alien sometimes" which I found oddly relatable. The Vuolos had fun, though, and head on their way.
Joe & Kendra are upgrading their baby gear since they are expecting their second child. They got a new car seat for Garrett and a double stroller. Kendra is 30 weeks. She says she thinks this time around the baby will be earlier. Garrett is mobile now and fast—he’s running around the house, making it tricky for very pregnant Kendra to keep up with. Kendra says when the new baby comes, Garrett will be daddy's buddy. Joe & Kendra try to figure out how to put the car seat in the new stroller. They read the instructions. Kendra says she doesn't feel ready yet, but Joe says he does.
[tw: miscarriage]
Joy & Austin found out they were expecting earlier in 2019, but when they went in for their 20 week ultrasound, there was no heartbeat. Joy broke down, and Austin said it didn't feel real. Joy had to be induced, and Austin was focused on Joy being okay. When she got through it fine, Austin said they began the grieving process. Joy says they named the baby Annabell, both for the meaning and because it was a childhood nickname of Joy's. Elise, the middle name, went well with that. Annabell was buried out on Fort Rock. Today, they place a headstone where she was buried. They also planted an oak sapling, near the burial site, which Joy will be able to watch grow. Austin said they have supported each other by recognizing how blessed they are, which helps overcome the despair. The Forsyths pray by the new headstone. Joy says it is comforting to have the support of her mom and sisters. Lauren says she recalls that when Jessa and Lauren were pregnant together and Lauren lost Asa, Jessa supported her; now, Lauren is trying to provide that same support for Joy. Jessa said they had that big photoshoot with all the pregnant girls, and despite Joy’s excitement for everyone, it’s a difficult time for her. Austin told Michelle in the hospital that they still wanted to be happy for all the babies on the way. Joy says having the headstone and tree brought closure for her, and while it is hard, they'll get through it.
[/end tw: miscarriage]
In Nevada, the Vuolos arrive in Vegas. Jeremy has never been before, but Jinger has been to the area—in particular, the Hoover Dam. The Duggars talk about their perceptions of Vegas and do comical Elvis impersonations. Kendra doesn't know "what" Elvis is. Jeremy has decided to do the Sky Jump: an 829ft controlled leap from the stratosphere building. Jinger is worried about watching this. Jeremy heads up the stratosphere, and Jinger tries to talk him out of it. She waits at the landing for him. Jinger tells Felicity that this will be scary, and Jinger is clearly worried for him. It is a wild thing to do and a long way down. Jeremy says he is an idiot and keeps asking what he is doing. He's got a go pro and Jinger is filming from the bottom. Jeremy is terrified, but he makes the leap and seems to enjoy it—it’s actually quite a smooth and slow descent, and he is glad he did it. He kisses the ground. Jeremy says you do feel like you are free falling and it was exhilarating. Jinger says she wishes she was that brave. They go take a pic with the Vegas sign and then tomorrow they will head to LA.
Abbie is about 16 weeks pregnant, and John & Abbie are having a big gender reveal party. Coming up with an original idea for a gender reveal was very difficult. They decided to keep the same airplane/flying theme as they did for their wedding. They have boarding passes for everyone in either pink or blue; everyone picks a pink or blue boarding pass and each boarding pass has four numbers on it. Jeremiah is going to do three passes with the plane: one will have the first two numbers, a middle one which will narrow it down to two passes, and the final one which will have the last number. The four numbers will match either a pink or a blue ticket, and that's the gender. (Maybe just stick to cakes?). Everyone heads outside to wait for the plane. Jer is taking off and heading towards the house. Jer does the first pass, the number is 82, and then everyone with an 82 steps up. Next, they look on the side of the plane and see a seven. The two last people are Abbie's mom and her sister Carinna. The plane comes around again, and they look for the last number on the other side of the plane. It's a three, and that reveals it is a girl. Abbie & John pop pink confetti over everyone. Jer says the flight went great and he is super excited for John & Abbie. Both John & Abbie were hoping for a girl, and they're thrilled. Everyone congratulates them.
The Vuolos finally arrive in LA, and Felicity claps. Their trip took five days, and they are happy to be in the big city.
*Episode 2: Beverly Hills Duggars
Josiah & Lauren and Abbie & John are attending birthing class with Miss Theresa to learn about preparing for labor. Lauren is 30 weeks, and Abbie is 18 weeks. They learn exercises and movements for labor. Lauren says she hopes to go natural in the hospital. Lauren says her mom has always done hospital births and she feels comfortable there. Abbie says they will labor at home for as long as they can and then go to the hospital, and she says she hasn't decided on pain relief—“we’ll see how it goes." Theresa says men can't know what it is like to be pregnant, so she strapped a pumpkin to their stomach and then made them do the exercises she had just had the mothers do. Next, Theresa has a device that simulates contractions for the guys. John and Josiah are very wary of this, and their wives start jokingly coaching them through it. Abbie tells John: "Your body was made to do this." The guys start really feeling it as it goes on, and they get more uncomfortable. Lauren keeps telling Josiah not to tense up. Eventually, Josiah takes it off. Lauren says he didn't listen to her helpful tips, and Therese says the wives let their husbands off easily, and labor is going to be much worse. Josiah says he is feeling more prepared after the class. John & Abbie concur.
In LA, Jana is visiting the Vuolos, and Jinger takes her window shopping on Rodeo Drive. They pop into a store called Boulmiche after admiring the items in the window. Jana said she never thought she would shop at a boutique in Beverly Hills. Jana mentions they typically thrift shop, but that she has been buying new lately. JB does the typical "buy used, save the difference" spiel. In a totally natural, not at all staged interaction, a sales associate helps them pick out outfits to try on. Jana says Jinger is the fashion queen, and Jeremy is also into fashion. They decide to try things on, and Michelle talks about modesty. Jana says their old photos are "rather embarrassing" and Jinger says they started out with homemade prairie dresses but now she prefers to dress "classy" with blazers and heels. Jana says her current style is unknown but could be called classic. Jinger comes out in a coat that she noted as one that reminded her of Jeremy's style, and she loves the fit. She had been looking for something similar for a while, and she just loves it—but it's $300. Jana has seemed relatively uncomfortable through this whole experience but agrees to try things even if they aren't her style. The other Duggars discuss their styles as "simple," "comfortable," and "plain." Jeremy calls his style "Grandpa-esque," which is honestly more self-aware than I would have guessed. Jana says she feels bulky in her outfits, but Jinger is glad she is trying on stuff outside her comfort zone. Jinger ends up getting her jacket, which is exactly what she had been looking for. Jana didn't get anything. The producers tell on Jinger for getting a $300 jacket to her family, and they are shocked. Jana and Jinger head out, and Jinger is just thrilled to have a sister to shop with, which is sweet.
Back in Arkansas, the husbands of the family have arranged a day off for the moms to have a spa day and treat themselves. Josiah says it is important for the ladies to have time off and be pampered. They decorate the house and the make mud masks for the moms. The spa day will be taking place in the large flip house that Lauren & Josiah were offered before their wedding, but it wasn't ready in time and it was too large for them. The guys are decorating the room, but they are having trouble because they are used to getting directions from Jana or Jessa. Joe stepped up and starts leading the charge. The other guys follow his lead, and Joe says he isn't a natural decorator, but he was better than the others. John has also printed off recipes for face masks, and the guys are surprised that people would put this on their face. Joe makes the banana honey one, and the others make a pumpkin one, green tea one, coffee one. John put too much milk in his mask, and it turned out watery, but he thinks it'll still work. John makes cucumber water, and the others have fun making up names for their masks. The guys are proud of their work to get this spa day ready.
The ladies arrive at the Moms' Day In, and they are impressed with the guys’ decorating work. The “Moms” include: Michelle, Anna, Lauren, Abbie, Kendra, Kendra's mother Christina, Joy, and Jessa. Lauren, Anna, Kendra, and Abbie are all expecting. They are impressed with all the preparations. The moms decide to try out the face masks, and they are rightfully a bit worried by the general appearance and smell of the masks. Michelle gets out of doing the mask by holding Ivy. They decide that the green tea one is the winner, although Joy goes for the pumpkin one. Jessa jokes that green tea one is the best and actually works like a mask, and so Ben must've made it (he actually made the coffee one—Josiah did the green tea one!) Christina tries the banana honey one, and she says it is burning her face from too much cinnamon. She tries the green tea one and prefers it. Kendra's mom notices that Kendra is quiet and asks if she is contracting. Kendra says yes, and everyone jokes about how quietly she can deal with pain. Kendra is 32 weeks but thinks baby girl might want to come a little early. The moms decide to eat the cucumbers they were supposed to put on their eyes. They wash their masks off, but on the whole the moms enjoyed it.
While the moms are having their day, Joe and Ben are watching their boys at Ben's house. They thought it would be a good opportunity to bond. Spurgeon is so chatty these days, it is cute, and he enjoyed playing with Garrett. Garrett is really mimicking words too. Austin arrives with Gideon, and the little guys enjoy running around together. The guys talk about how watching toddlers is tricky. Austin says it is a full time job keeping Gideon from eating stuff he finds on the floor. All the guys appreciate the amount of time their wives spend with their kids. Austin works 10 hour days but says keeping track of kids for 10 hours is way harder.
[tw: miscarriage]
Back at the Moms day, they are eating. Joy says that there are currently four pregnancies as she recently lost her baby girl. She said she prayed a lot about how it would be to be around all these pregnant people after her loss. While it is hard, she says her pain does not negate her happiness for them.
[/end tw: miscarriage]
Jessa put some parenting and pregnancy questions in the bowl for everyone to answer. Kendra pulls one out; it asks, “What surprised everyone about becoming a mom?” Jessa said she was surprised by afterbirth pains with her later pregnancies—she didn't have them after having Spurgeon, but in her other two pregnancies, she kept contracting even after delivery. Joy says after becoming a mom, your body has changed a lot as do your priorities. Starting nursing is a challenge too, Jessa said. Next, Michelle pulls a question, "Is it normal to experience a regression about six months after potty training?" Michelle says yes, it is very normal and you just have to start over and get back in the groove. Abbie pulls a question "How do you keep your cool when your kids are not?" Joy jokes she's already failed that one, and Gideon isn't even talking. Jinger, in a talking head, says she gets frustrated when Felicity is freaking out because she can't talk, but you gotta step away, pray and calm down. Michelle says take a deep breath like you would in labor, get yourself back under control, lower your voice and whisper and that will calm both the child and yourself. Christina says that she has told Kendra that you will fail as a mom, and it's all about picking yourself up and having a support group and knowing what is normal. Abbie says it was great to get advice from the other moms. Kendra says overall it was a great bonding day, and Lauren says they should do it more often. Joy says it was fun getting to spend time with just the girls. Jessa says they should do it every six months.
*Episode 3: A Duggar Bachelor Pad
Hurricane Dorian has hit the Bahamas, and many of the Duggars are trained in relief efforts, so they headed to the Bahamas to help where they can. The region was devastated, and the Duggars are organizing and distributing supplies. They helped connect doctors to people in need. Jana and Abbie are there to help support the efforts. John says no one is ever really safe from natural disasters, and you have to help where you can. Jason says being able to help with aid has been a blessing and he is glad to be able to help others in their time of need.
At Jessa & Ben's, they are preparing to take a road trip to Kansas City. This is their first road trip with three kids. It is a three and a half hour drive, and they are hoping the kids will nap. Spurgeon says he usually naps but sometimes he stays awake. Jessa says they have some mom hacks: travel with snacks, travel with the kids in PJs, and stop to get dressed when they're 15 minutes from their destination. They are looking forward to go to an apple orchard and maybe the zoo. On the ride, they sing songs like Amazing Grace. Ivy is napping. Spurgeon says he likes looking out the window and singing songs on trips. Michelle always had a plastic tub she called a "survival kit" for long trips. Jinger said on their long trip, they would go for three hours and then let Felicity run around and that would tire her out for the next three hours. Jessa has wrapped some toys for the boys so they get to open them up and play with them along the trip. Spurgeon liked the wrapped toys, but Henry gets frustrated. Henry and Ivy nap, but Spurgeon doesn't.
Ben & Jessa arrive, and meet up with their friends the Chapmans. Brandon & Jenna Chapman were friends of the Seewalds from Church, and their kids are close in age: Spurgeon is close in age to Isla, Henry to Judah, and Ivy to Zion. They arrive at the orchard, and Jessa and Ben try to figure out whether the apples on the ground are okay to pick. Some of them look okay, but generally Ben thinks the low hanging fruit is there for a reason. Ben and Brandon start trying to get the apples down from the top of the tree. They jump, lift up kids to get them, and climb on the wagon. After collecting a lot of apples, Jenna says they will have to look up apple recipes while the Seewalds are in town. The Seewalds and Chapmans are so happy to be reunited.
In LA, the Vuolos are heading to Felicity's first swim lesson. She is 15 months, and they want her to be comfortable with the water. Jinger says there are a lot of pools in California and she feels safer with Felicity being able to swim. Jeremy asked if she did lessons as a kid, and Jinger says not really, but her younger siblings do all the time. The oldest kids learned to swim, and so did the younger kids, but some in the middle are not as big of swimmers, and that includes Jinger. Jessa says she is also a terrible swimmer, and Joy says she can't really swim. Kendra is a good swimmer, but Joe isn't. Jeremy also learned as a kid, but his technique isn't anything special. Jinger has been getting lessons from a friend who was trained by an instructor. They arrive at the pool, and Jeremy gets in the water with Felicity and Instructor Kenneth. Jinger thought it was a good opportunity for dad and daughter time. They do a few different things to get her comfortable in the water, and eventually do a little dunk. Felicity starts crying, and she is not a fan of dunking in the water. Felicity sees Jinger on the side of the pool and wants to go to her. Jinger goes and hides behind a post. Jinger wishes she could comfort her, but knows it is good to get her comfortable in the water. Jeremy said he has learned more than Felicity, but it was a good start.
Jed and Jer have moved into their own house. Their living room contains only a ping pong table, since they don't have couches. They have a little kitchen and plan on getting a small table. They share a room with two twin beds. They have their own bathroom and closet for the first time. Jed and Jer say that they aren't the first to move out before marriage: John did for a while to pursue his pilot's license, and Joe went to college but came back. They have an office as well. The twins say it is up to the older kids whether they want to stay or move out, and a lot of them love living with their family. Jed says this is just the next spot for him to go, and his parents are excited for him. The other bedroom has a bunk bed and is a guest room. Joe and Josiah arrive to check out the new place. Josiah brought some patio chairs along for them to sit in. Joe says it is nice, but a small house. Everyone jokes about what you should give as a housewarming gift for a bachelor pad: trash cans, air fresheners, home-cooked meals, restaurant gift cards. Jed and Jer have only been moved out for a week and a half and haven't cooked in their new house yet. They're making burgers for dinner for their brothers. They preheat the oven for fries. Both twins are not good cooks, so Josiah steps in to help. The twins say their brothers have wives who can teach them how to cook. They miss living with their brothers and having mom's cooking. Both the twins are waiting for Mrs. Right, and don't have anyone in mind now. Overall, it was a great night they say.
The Seewalds and Chapmans arrive at the zoo, and Jessa is breastfeeding while walking, something she only does on group activities. They go to a lorikeet exhibit—most Duggars don't know what they are, but Jeremy does—they’re little birds in the parakeet family. The parents thought feeding the birds would be fun. There is a callback to when Jessa & Ben had their brother help build a deck at their place and a bird pooped on Ben. One bird comes and lands on Ivy's head, and this baby is entirely unbothered by the bird on her head. Henry, Spurgeon, Isla, and Judah enjoy feeding the birds. It starts to rain, so they head inside to Stingray bay, where you can touch stingrays. As they pet the stingrays, they realize Henry is gone—apparently he's a bit of a runner. They find him quickly, but while looking at monkeys he goes for a run again and Ben goes after him. After the zoo, it is nap time. It was a great visit to the zoo and fun trip to Kansas City.
Instead of the usual Family Fun Night, the Duggars have Family Fun Day at a corn maze. The family will divide into six teams with a timer each, and the fastest team out of their maze wins. John & Abbie are a team with Tyler and Josie. They head off into the maze, trying to walk fast and make their way through the maze. Jason's team—Johannah, Anna, and her five kids with a stroller. Joe's Team is himself, Kendra, and Garrett. Kendra is pretty pregnant, so they don't expect to win. She is 36 weeks and feeling big with some aches and pains but feeling pretty good overall. John's team is out of the maze in 11:37min. Joe took a picture of the maze and drew a map on his phone to get through it. Jason's team does it in 8:38 with Anna, pregnant, jogging to the finish. Joe & Kendra do it in 10:32. Kendra is contracting after going through the maze. Joy, Austin, and Gideon are the next team in. They carry Gideon and just run the maze. Austin thinks that with the pregnant ladies and strollers, that will get them through this. Ben's team is next: with Jessa, their kids, and Jordyn. Ben gives them a pep talk before they go in, trying to get them to win. Jessa also took a picture of the map, and she has a route planned. Joe & Jessa have plans, but John and Joy don't—which Kendra thinks fits their personalities. Jeremiah has his parents, Justin, Jackson, and Jennifer. Joy's team is struggling to find the route out. Austin says if it wasn't for all the corn, they could see the end. That was his first corn maze, apparently. Joy's team finishes in 15:30. Jim Bob's team finishes in 7:48. Ben's team finishes in 6:25. Ben is proud of their win, and Jessa needs water. Jim Bob says everyone made in through and was a winner. They all clap and talk about how much they value weekly family night and this was a fun way to do something new.
*Episode 4: The Duggar Dash
Michelle calls the family together at the big house, and announces a fun, family competition: a race around town. This is inspired by how much fun they had at the corn maze. Michelle and Lauren are staying at the house with the kids, and the teams are based on the old buddy system with some updates:
- Team One: Joy, Austin, Tyler, Jennifer, and James.
- Team Two: Jim Bob, Joe, Kendra, and Johannah. Joe says they won't be able to go as fast as other teams. Kendra is nearing her due date but still wanted to participate.
- Team Three is Jana, Josiah, Jason, Jackson, and Josie.
- Team Four: Ben, Jessa, Jeremiah, Justin, and Jordyn (and Ivy, Jessa adds).
Michelle says each team needs to stay together, and in order to win they must cross the finish line together. There will be a series of challenges, and the teams must complete each challenge before moving on to the next. Michelle says there is no speeding, be safe, and have fun.
The first challenge is eating a mystery item, and each team has to select someone to do it. They pick who eats what using a method similar to "musical chairs" with colored tiles on the ground—whichever color you end up on determines what you will eat and the color of your team moving forward. The four dishes are: tater tot casserole, Haggis, cricket tacos, and escargot. All of these foods have been sampled by Duggars on different trips (or, in the case of tater tot casserole, just at their house a lot). In the end, JB ends up with cricket tacos, Tyler with Haggis, Jackson with tater tot casserole, and Ben with escargot. Everyone makes their way to their dishes and begins eating. Everyone cheers on their teammates. Ben finishes his meal first, and their team is officially the yellow team. The next challenge is to head to a thrift store with a $5 bill and get yellow items for each team member to wear throughout the challenge. Tyler finishes next, and his team, the green team, heads out. The yellow team is still in their car, and Jordyn needs to use the bathroom really badly, so they have to make a pit stop. The green team heads out. Jackson finishes, and his team, now the blue team, heads out. The green team has passed the yellow team due to their potty break. Now, only JB and his team are still at the house. JB is having trouble finishing his cricket tacos. Finally, JB finishes his meal, and his team, the Red team, leaves the house.
In their cars, each team discusses their strategies for what to buy at the thrift store. The Green team is thinking socks are a good move. In the Yellow team car, Jessa explains the layout of the thrift store to her team. Everyone talks about going the speed limit (and Jessa telling Ben to go faster). Green and Yellow teams arrive at the thrift store at the same time and start running around. The Green team buys one $2 scarf, and they plan to cut it up for each team member. Austin says this isn't cheating. The cashier gives them their next clue: go to a climbing gym. The Green team leaves and is on their way. Yellow team is finishing up at the thrift store just as Blue team arrives. The Yellow team buys five things; the Blue team is also planning on buying one thing and cutting it up, just like the Green team did. Yellow is now out the door, and the Blue team is finishing up. The Red team then arrives at the thrift store and is rushing around. The Red team is not moving super quickly in the thrift store, and the blue team leaves.
The Green team arrives at the climbing gym. James easily climbs to the top of one of the rock walls and grabs the next clue, which tells the team to solve a math equation, go to the family treehouse, and find a pair of shoes with the answer from the Duggar's jumbled up pile of shoes inside the treehouse. The Blue and Yellow teams arrive at the climbing gym next, and Josiah and Jeremiah prepare to climb. The Green team heads to the shoe pile at the treehouse while Blue & Yellow are climbing. Both Blue & Yellow teams leave the climbing gym around the same time, heading for the treehouse. The Red team finally arrives at the climbing gym as everyone is leaving.
The Green team is trying to solve their math problem: “What is the number of the 19 kids who share the same name times the number of years Joy and Austin have been married?” The Yellow team’s math problem is: “What is Jim Bob's age divided by the number of Duggar daughters?” The older kids aren't sure how old JB is, but Jordyn knows he's 54. The Blue team’s math problem is “What is number of Duggars with December birthdays plus the number of couples who have gotten married in November?”
Back at the climbing gym, Joe does the climbing for the Red team. Joe climbs quickly but needs his team to point out the envelope because he couldn’t see it. Meanwhile, Jessa googles her dad's age: he is 54. Jana counts six birthdays in December, and Joy figures out that only two of the 19 kids share middle names: Jed and Jer. They debate whether Michelle is rounding down to two years for their marriage or if she means the two and a half years they've actually been married. It's either four or five. The Red team has left their clue behind, so JB runs back in the climbing gym. Jana says that there are two anniversaries in November: the Vuolos and John & Abbie (this is wrong). The Red team’s math problem is “ What is the age of the 15th Duggar minus the total number of washers and dryers in the big house?” JB gets the second half easily: eight. Jackson is the 15th Duggar and is 15 years old, so 15 minus eight is seven.
The Green team arrives at the tree house and starts looking for a pair of size four shoes. Joy finds one size four shoe quickly, and they dig through the pile to find the matching shoe. The Duggars talk about how it can be difficult to find shoes at their house. Joy finds the other shoe, and the Green team is off to check in with Michelle. Michelle verifies that the Green team has correctly solved the math problem and found a matching shoe pair; their next task is to go to a hay pile to find their next clue in a haystack.
The Yellow team arrives at the treehouse and is looking for size six shoes. They find their pair pretty quickly and head off to Michelle. The Blue team heads to the tree house to find size eight shoes. Jana gets them, and they run to the big house. Blue team learns that their math was wrong, so their size eight shoes are not correct.
At the haystack, James brings a machine over to go through the hay faster. Yellow and Green are digging in the hay. The Blue team is still working on their math problem—they are listing the November wedding couples again: The Vuolos and the Seewalds. Michelle is waiting for them to realize who they're missing. Green and Yellow are still looking for clues in the haystack when the Blue team realizes their mistake: they forgot that John & Abbie got married in November. Jana couldn’t believe she forgot this: “He's my twin and I planned his wedding!” The Blue team goes to grab a pair of size nine shoes, and head back in for confirmation from Michelle.
Finally, the Red team arrives at the treehouse to find their shoes. The Yellow team finds their clue in the haystack, and they celebrate. They open their clue as the Green team are still looking. The clue tells them that the first team back to the big house wins. Green team is discouraged that they lost their lead. Yellow team rushes back, and they are the winners of the challenge. They celebrate their victory. Jessa says, "Good job Ivy! You were fast! You were fierce!" The three remaining teams continue searching in the haystack, and Joy finds the Green team's clue and races back to the house. Austin tells the other teams where he saw their clues. Joy & Austin are bummed they came in second place. Kendra is contracting in the haystack, and the two remaining teams make a pack to head home together without their clues. Austin and Joe look for the Red team’s clue, and Joe is happy with his third place. The final rankings are: Blue 4th, Red 3rd, Green 2nd and Yellow first place. Everyone celebrates the challenge. Everyone claps for Michelle's planning, and several Duggars mention this should be an annual event.
*Episode 5: A Baby Girl for Joe & Kendra
In Los Angeles, the Vuolos are going for a walk so that Felicity can try her new Scooter. Felicity likes to be outside. The Vuolos first put a helmet and knee pads on Felicity, and then she gets on her scooter. She takes to it right away, but only does little pushes with her foot. While they are walking, Jeremy says this makes him think about the skateboard that his friend Brian, a former pro-skateboarder turned preacher, gave him. Jeremy said he should ask Brian for a lesson since it would be something very California-esque to try. Jeremy says Felicity had a great time on the Scooter and soon she'll be doing it all by herself.
At Joe & Kendra's, Kendra is 38 weeks pregnant, so they need to clean the house and set up for the baby. A bunch of the siblings come over to help clean. Kendra shows them her to-do list and they try to make plans for who will do which chores. They start cleaning, and Joe jokes that when the baby comes home they expect it to be spotless. As they’re cleaning, the kids find the biscuits in the fridge and start to eat them. Some of the boys even eat on the newly vacuumed couch, so it has to be cleaned again. Kendra puts Garrett down for a nap, which he isn't happy about. They finish off their lists and both parents are feeling more ready for their new addition.
At the Seewald’s, they are taking Henry for a follow-up speech evaluation with a speech therapist. Jessa was worried about his communication skills and has been taking him to be evaluated. The first time the speech pathologist came, she wanted to follow up with him and also gave them techniques to try to help him. They arrive at the speech pathologists’ office where Henry will be evaluated as a three year old. He has been picking up more and more words lately. Jessa says it is hard to know as a parent if you have done all they could do to help him. During their appointment, the speech pathologist notes she is noticing improvements from Henry. JB said he once stuttered but went to speech therapy and has improved. Henry is whispering to the speech pathologist and she asks him speak up. In the talking heads, Joe & Kendra say they noticed Garrett had one weak side of his neck, which they had checked out to avoid problems later. The speech pathologist says Henry has really come far, and Jessa says they cut out screen time and that seems to have made him start using his words more.
Back in LA, Jeremy, Jinger, Felicity, her scooter, and his skateboard arrive at the skatepark to take a skating lesson from Brian. Brian is a skateboarder who went pro at 19 and toured with Tony Hawk. Brian gives Jeremy some tips, and Jude, Brian's son, is also there and is a really good skateboarder at age 9. Jeremy slips a few times but isn't slamming too hard, so he is doing better. Jeremy starts getting the feel for it as the lesson progresses. Jeremy says it is all about confidence. Brian then talks about his transition into ministry and Jeremy says his story is similar. He recalls his partying days, and getting arrested out late one night, when he realized he needed to live for Christ. Jeremy said he and Brian hit it off and they hope to spend more time together.
At Joe & Kendra's, they are giving Garrett a bath and Kendra is beginning to have contractions. They are preparing to take him to the Caldwell’s’ house for the night, just in case. Kendra is timing her contractions and thinks she may be making progress. They drop Garrett off at the Caldwell’s, and her mother and sister will be going with her to the hospital. At her parents’ house, Kendra notes that her contractions are stalling but hopes she will still progress. Kendra & Joe pray with Garrett before they leave for the hospital.
Kendra & Joe head into the hospital, and Kendra is really worried she'll be sent home. They arrive at the hospital, and Kendra is still at 4cms. She is really worried she is stalling, so she & Joe go for a brisk walk around the halls. Joe does a breathing exercise with Kendra as well. The contractions are picking up, and Kendra lays down. Her water breaks, which didn't happen in her first labor. Christina arrives, and Kendra is glad she is there. Joe keeps helping coach Kendra through labor. Kendra is nauseous as well, which didn't happen in her first labor. Eventually, Kendra is saying she feels like she needs to push. Kendra is repeatedly asking about pushing, and they begin worrying about Kendra passing out. Christina and Joe want Kendra to wait for the doctor to come. However, he is delivering at another hospital and there is no time to wait. The nurses end up delivering Addison at 5:33am. Kendra says after the intense labor, getting to see her was amazing. She was almost eight pounds, which surprised them. Her name is Addison Renee Duggar, which means "in God's image" and "born again." They think Addy is a cute nickname. The next day, the family comes to meet Addison, and they are excited to get to see her. Garrett meets Addison for the first time, which is really sweet. Kendra says they are excited to be a family of four.
*Episode 6: A Beautiful Miracle
Lauren is two weeks out from her due date and contracting. Lauren, Josiah, and Jill are packing a bag just in case they have to go into the hospital. They go to the Swanson home in order to walk the stairs and see if they can get this baby moving. She goes on the treadmill, walks up and down the stairs and sits on the ball. Kendra says her advice is to take it one contraction at a time, and not to focus too much on the end. Jill has Lauren doing positions to help open her pelvis and prepare for labor. Josiah says Jill, as a midwife, is helping them at the early stages of labor until Lauren goes to the hospital. Lauren says her mom has always done hospital births—she has a good doctor, everything is there if you need it, and she’s comfortable there. After all the exercise, things seems to be more steady and Lauren is breathing through contractions. Lauren says she doesn't feel ready for the hospital, so they decide to head home for a little longer.
At Joe & Kendra's, the new family of four is doing really well. Kendra says Addison's delivery was slower than Garrett's at first, and then after her water broke it was super fast. Kendra says it was an emotional moment to see Addison for the first time. Garrett is still not too sure what to think of Addison, and he's been jealous and acting out more. Kendra says he is just learning to adjust. Jessa says the transition from one to two kids is difficult, and it takes a while for the older kid to realize the baby is a human being and not a toy. The producers ask Joe & Kendra if they'll have it down after 17 more kids, and Kendra says that seems like it would be more difficult. But the kids are very cute together, and they are excited.
The following evening after the first clip, Josiah & Lauren are heading into the hospital. Things have gotten more steady. Lauren is worried about labor but ready to meet her daughter. She is 3cms dilated and 80% effaced. They are checked into the hospital and labor continues to pick up. Jill and both grandmas-to-be are the rest of the birth team. They have a lot of experience. Lauren is having back labor, as Bella's head is in a posterior position in Lauren's spine. At 6cms, Lauren's back is still in a lot of pain, so they decide to do an epidural to help her relax so she can progress. The epidural has some side effects, and Lauren gets some relief, but not a lot. The doctors are trying to figure out why she doesn't get more relief from the epidural. They decide to give Lauren a second epidural, and Lauren is still not feeling any relief from the pain. Lauren is getting discouraged and is still in a bunch of pain. They give Lauren something to let her sleep, and she sleeps for a while. She is dilated to 9cm.
At Jessa & Ben's, they are waiting eagerly for news about the baby, but they are going shopping for a care package for Josiah & Lauren when they get home. Jessa says her first labor was long and taxing, and she wants to help them relax and replenish after. They arrive at the store and Ben takes a minute to wipe the cart down. Ben wants to get fresh food like avocados for Lauren. Spurgeon drops a melon and cracks it open, so they buy it. Jessa says the rind protects it, and the boys and her will eat it, but Ben isn't convinced. In talking heads, everyone talks about what to put in an after-labor kit: coffee, snacks, chocolates, and diapers are the big hits. They head out of the store with their kit.
Back at the hospital, Lauren is still resting with one leg elevated. If things don't start progressing, the doctor thinks they will have to take more steps, possibly even doing a C-section. Josiah just wants what is best for mom and baby. Lauren is given Pitocin to help things progress, as her contractions have gone to eight minutes apart instead of two. At the Swanson house, the family is praying that Lauren won’t have to do a C-section. Lauren is really in pain and doesn't think she can do this much longer. Lauren is praying to protect the baby, and the Pitocin has her dilated enough to start pushing. As she pushes, her whole team cheers her on. Bella finally arrives, and they put her on Lauren's chest. Lauren was so excited to have her daughter in her arms after all that work. Bella cries as they put a little hat on her. Josiah is surprised at how alert she is, taking everyone in. Lauren says having a loss and then holding her rainbow baby is the greatest thing she could ever feel.
Jim Bob arrives at the hospital to see Bella and help them pack to go home. Michelle tells them they were an incredible team and told Lauren she was a woman of steel. Lauren says Bella is joyful and smiley and the happiness in her is rare and special. The new parents arrive home.
At the big house, it is Family Fun Night, and the family is having a gingerbread house decorating competition. Jinger & Jeremy are joining in virtually, and they will use this opportunity to reveal they are expecting. Their plan is to make a pregnant “Jinger-bread” cookie. The Vuolos start making cookies. Jinger is ten weeks pregnant and feeling good with just some morning sickness & food aversions. Jeremy is going to head to a meeting, leaving Jinger to prepare the cookies and take care of Felicity. Felicity is running around while Jinger tries to make cookies. Jinger had one hour before the competition, Felicity is fussing, and Jinger is trying to decorate everything. Jeremy arrives and Felicity is thrilled, and Jinger has the chance to finish the cookies. Jinger likes how they turned out.
In Arkansas, the family has arrived for the gingerbread house making session. They connect Jinger & Jeremy on the computer, and everyone gets to work on their houses; although some of the gingerbread houses aren’t actually houses: Jason and James are making a ship and using hot glue to connect their pieces (that'll make it easier). They used a drill to insert the masts. Jana gives up on the house she is working on with Johannah and Jordyn after it collapsed. The competition is coming to a close, and Jinger & Jeremy just manage to get their cookies to stand up. Michelle asks about the houses, she likes the ship and Josiah & Lauren's cottage. Jana is embarrassed by their last minute fix, and as she walks up to the camera with her gingerbread house, it collapses again. Everyone laughs. John & Abbie made a farm, and Joe & Kendra's looks pretty classic. Finally, it is Jinger & Jeremy's turn. They show the house, and no one has caught on to the pregnant Jinger-bread cookie yet. Finally, Michelle notices the Jinger-bread cookie is pregnant and everyone claps in excitement over at the big house.
*Episode 7: Highs and Lows
[tw: miscarriage]
Jinger & Jeremy are at home with Felicity. Jeremy leaves for work. Jinger says they recently announced a pregnancy, but unfortunately Jinger suffered a miscarriage. Jeremy says it was a very difficult event, and they had just announced the pregnancy, so it hit them hard. Since the miscarriage, Jinger has been recovering. Jeremy says it was hard for him, but he knew it was harder for Jinger who was carrying the pregnancy, so he focused on supporting her. Jinger said he spent time her, giving her time to rest as well as grieving and praying with her. Jeremy says it is right to hurt together and take some time to heal. Times like this draw you closer and you hug Felicity a little tighter after a day like that.
[/end tw: miscarriage]
At Jessa & Ben's, the family is heading out for Ben's Lasik eye surgery. He is hoping he won't have to wear glasses anymore after the procedure. Ben has worn glasses since he was 7, and his vision is really bad without them. Ben had considered Lasik, and friend had it done and said it was life changing, which convinced him. They arrive at the clinic. When asked who wears glasses in the Duggar family, Jordyn says Ben, sometimes Tyler, Jenni, Joy, and Josie. Jana says some are supposed to, but don't. Ben has a little bit of nerves going into the procedure. Jessa is a little worried there could be a complication. The doctor talks Ben through the procedure as he works on the eyes. Ben appreciated the explanations. Meanwhile in the waiting room, Jessa is trying to keep her three kids quiet and still. She wishes she had gotten a babysitter. Ben's procedure finishes, and they ask him to look at a clock and tell the time. Ben can see better already, and he wishes he had done this years ago. The doctor says it went well and thinks tomorrow he will be thrilled with how well he can see. For now, the vision is still watery, but tomorrow it will be much better. Ben donates his glasses in a bin in the waiting room, and he is excited to see tomorrow. At home, Ben is thrilled with all the signs and things he can read.
Back in LA, Jeremy is collecting tables and chairs from the church for a surprise party for Jinger. He wanted to celebrate Jinger with her friends and family. The Mahoney’s, friends of the Vuolos from church, will be hosting the party. Jeremy begins moving the tables and chairs into the house. Jeremy says Jinger doesn't suspecting anything. Jeremy says it has been tricky keeping a secret from Jinger. Her family flown in to join the party. Tomorrow, Jinger has photography class and Jeremy will meet up with the Duggars and put the finishing touches on the party set up. He is excited for the big reveal: a painting he commissioned of Jinger and Felicity.
Jinger has always loved photography, and she is excited to be doing a workshop. This class is focused on phone photography, and they are going to edit and develop the photos in a darkroom. Felicity is a model for the little shoot. After they take the photos, they head to the darkroom, which is in the photographer’s home studio. Meanwhile, Jeremy goes to the hotel to meet up with the Duggars. He is excited to see Ivy. Michelle is particularly glad to be here for Jinger after her miscarriage. Jessa says Jeremy is good at surprises: he surprised her once during their courtship, then with a proposal, with a baby shower, and with the piano. Jeremy has been working hard to keep the surprise secret since Jinger knows his phone code and is on there often. Jeremy asks Michelle to say a few words to honor Jinger. The Duggars are looking forward to seeing them later at the party.
At the photography studio, the photographer begins teaching them how to convert the photos to film to develop them. Jinger thinks it is cool the photographer has a darkroom in her closet—Jinger could have one at home, too. They develop the photograph and Jinger is thrilled to develop photos and loves how it came out. After the class, Jinger and Felicity arrive home, and Jinger is excited and not suspecting anything. Jeremy tells her he is surprising her with a babysitter and a date somewhere nice and tells her to put on her new dress. Jinger goes to get ready.
In Arkansas, John, Abbie, Joy, and Austin are going for a carriage ride to take in the Christmas lights. Abbie is six weeks out from her due date and feeling good. These couples have a lot in common and enjoy double dates. The couples enjoy riding around to see the lights, and Abbie says they should make it a tradition. They talk about family traditions—Michelle says some of her traditions include baking, especially buckeyes, and some classics such as wrapping gifts, reading the Christmas story, watching a Christmas movie, etc. The double daters finish their carriage ride and decide to stop for hot chocolate. They chat about the baby on the way, and Joy says it is strange to give her older brother parenting advice, but he is great with kids so they'll be a great parenting team. Joy & Austin reminisce about the baby stage, and how much a new baby changes things. Joy says they are already great parents, and John says the best Christmas gift is getting to meet their little girl soon.
Back in LA, it is surprise time, and Jinger & Jeremy head off. Jeremy gives Jinger a blindfold to wear, and Jinger tells him not to mess her make-up up! Jinger still isn't exactly sure what is up, but she is having a good time. They arrive at the Mahoney’s house, and Jeremy is leading her onto the front steps . He takes off her blindfold, and she realizes they're at their friends house. Jinger walks into the house and is excited to see it full of their friends and everyone starts singing happy birthday to Jinger. Jinger was truly surprised, but there is still another surprise to come: the Seewalds, Jana, and Laura DeMasie walk out from behind a corner to surprise her again. Finally, Michelle and JB do the same. A few friends say a few words, and then Michelle talks about Jinger as a little kid to growing up and how proud they are. Finally, Jeremy reveals the painting to Jinger, and she loves it. They enjoy cake, music, and each other's company. Jinger says it was the best birthday party she'd ever had.
[tw: miscarriage]
The next day, Jinger and her mom and sisters head out to a coffeeshop to spend time together. Jinger is glad she gets to spend time with them. Michelle said she wanted to be here for Jinger when she lost the baby. Michelle said she also miscarried her second baby, and she really wanted to be with Jinger. Jana said it was hard not to tell Jinger they were coming with everything going on, and Joy in particular was going to hop on a plane. Joy says she has been texting Jinger and still telling her she thinks of her because she knows how much that means when you're going through a loss. Jessa says the distance was so hard and she wanted to be there for Jinger. Michelle says it can be important to give people space or support as needed when they're going through a miscarriage. Jinger says she knows God has a bigger plan and she was grateful for the comfort and closure that their support brought her. Jinger was just glad everyone was there. She says it is important to appreciate times together and cherish those moments together when they can.
[/end tw: miscarriage]
*Episode 8: The Best Duggar Christmas Pageant Ever
Jana says it is time for the second annual Duggar Ugly Sweater Party. Everyone is dressed up to start celebrating. Abbie says some people were so decked out, she didn't recognize them. Josiah, Lauren, and Bella are snow men. A lot of people went with just a general "old person" aesthetic. The family talks about how fun it is to get together. Everyone votes for their favorite ugly sweater, and Jana and Jessa compile the votes. James wins the “Weirdest” category for his "Elvis" inspired look. Jana is wins the “Cutest” category in an old fashioned red thrift store dress and short wig. The “Most Creative” are the Duggar-Swanson Snowmen. First place for the “Ugliest” is Justin, in a wild wig, sweater, and clashing shorts. Jana says she hopes this tradition continues.
Jana wants to revive an old family tradition they have of doing a Christmas play. She has a bunch of stuff she has planned and recently renovated an old school-house and church from the 1800s. This will be the first event there. Jana says they'll invite a lot of the in-laws. Jer is the narrator, and they have a stable and costumes. Spurgeon will be the angel, Gabriel; Jessa is worried he might get stage fright. Jana says the plan for Baby Jesus is to be one of the three new babies: Addison, Bella or Maryella—whoever is quietest at the time. Jessa, Jer, and Jana are stressing about doing this play last minute, but they will make it work.
In LA, the Vuolos are going to pick out a Christmas tree. This will be their first real tree and they will cut it down themselves. Jeremy and Felicity dressed up as lumberjacks for the occasion. Jinger says Jeremy is really good at dressing up: they recall him dressing up for his golf bachelor party. In the talking heads, the other Duggars recall their Christmas trees of the past: they usually had a fake one at the Duggar home, but they once planted one as their tree. At the tree, farm, Felicity is walking around exploring and having a blast—she isn't too bothered about the trees. Jinger & Jeremy find a tree and decide it is the one. Jeremy will be cutting it down. He does it quite quickly, and Jeremy jokes he did drop the ball by not yelling timber before the tree fell. Jinger says this was very fun.
Jessa is doing a project where she takes pictures of the grandkids for her parents, inspired by the one she did in her living room. Jessa leaves Ben with the kids and goes to take a picture of Gideon. Joy & Austin are in the middle of renovating their house. Jessa says it is hard to get a little kid to stand still, but Joy bribes him with candy to get him to do it. Jessa does it short and quick, which she thinks is the way to go. Jessa then goes to Anna's and take pictures of her kids, and then takes a picture of Bella, Garrett, and Addison. Jessa says now she will edit the images and put them on a long canvas.
It is rehearsal day for the Christmas pageant. Jana has costumes and is getting stuff together. Jer is the narrator and grateful he isn't playing a donkey this year—Jim Bob will be playing the donkey. Everyone is in costume, and it is time to run the show. Jackson and Johannah are Joseph and Mary. Michael is the scribe. Jordyn and Mackenzie are angels, and Tyler is the king. Jason, James, and Justin are the three wise men, and the shepherds are Jenni, Josie, and Mason. All the little toddlers are sheep except Spurgeon, who is Gabriel. Then, when he saw the sheep get to have cracker, Spurgeon decided he would become a sheep. The three kings were selected because they can sing. The first go of the rehearsal is really long and a lot of the little kids are making a break away. The adults end the rehearsal, and Jessa says they will wing it tomorrow and hope it works.
Back in LA, Jinger & Jeremy are decorating their tree with Felicity. Felicity dances around as they hang the lights; she is generally the most adorable thing. They start hanging ornaments and have Felicity help them. Jessa says they try to keep the focus on the birth of Christ during Christmas time, but they have fun with the decor. Jinger & Jeremy find a spider in the tree, which Jinger does not appreciate. Jeremy jokes about it being a black widow. They also find a ladybug. Jinger says she doesn't know about this real tree thing. She does love the tree, and they are excited for Christmas.
It is pageant time, and everyone is getting ready. Generally, everyone is just hoping this comes together. It begins, and Mackenzie does a good job taking over Spurgeon's role as Gabriel. Johannah as Mary is trying not to giggle, and there are some awkward pauses. But they figure it out, and Jim Bob, the donkey, carries Johannah to Bethlehem. Johannah is trying not to step on the outfit, which is not going super well. Addison is baby Jesus at the start, and Lauren and Josiah sing Oh Holy Night. There is a bowl of snacks for the sheep on stage to keep them contained. The shepherds do well, also. Mason, Henry, and Garret all try to make a break for it at one point. Garrett is looking for Kendra, but she tells him to pay attention. The three kings come in singing with their gifts, and they get a lot of giggles. Overall, the performance was sweet. Kendra says it was the cutest thing ever. Jessa says it always somehow works. When asked if they want to do it again next year, there are a lot of no’s from the little kids.
After the pageant, Jessa surprises the family with two large gifts: the canvas’s with pictures of all the grandbabies (Israel and Samuel are blurred but included). They are thrilled. The older Duggars talk about what Christmas means to them, and they look forward to the future.
*Episode 9: Meet Gracie Duggar!
Abbie is 38 and a half weeks, and she says she feels pretty good but is really tired. In their home, John David is making a video for the baby. It will feature John & Abbie as well as some family members. John hasn't told Abbie too much about this project, but he did interview Abbie for the video. John then goes to Joe & Kendra's house to interview them for the video. Joe talks about growing up with John, and how romantic he became when he met Abbie. John then interviews his parents, and he asks them about when they knew Abbie was the one. John then interviews Jana and some of the other siblings. He plans to edit it with old photos and put it together for after the baby's birth.
At the Seewald’s house, the family is making and decorating bird houses and pinecone bird feeders. Spurgeon got a bird book, so the boys are super interested in birds. Jessa & Ben guide the boys through the bird house construction process. The boys then set to painting. Jessa paints an H and says, "H for Henry!" and Henry says, "E then n and r and y!" Jessa is thrilled that he is suddenly spelling his name. The boys finish their painting. Next, Jessa covers pinecones in peanut butter for the boys to cover in seeds. "We made them so the bird wouldn't die," Spurgeon explains. Then, they go outside to hang the feeders in a tree. Overall, Ben says they'll be seeing a lot more birds around here.
At John & Abbie's, John is giving Abbie a pedicure since she can no longer reach her toes. The other guys talk about what they do for their wives, and it is very sweet but not a lot of them mention pedicures. Abbie asks John if he'll paint their daughter's nails, and he agrees. Abbie says she will think the world of him. They talk a bit about their birth plan—they’ll stay at home as long as they can, then go to the hospital, and include both moms. John finishes the pedicure and says it could be any day now.
At the Vuolo’s, Jinger is making homemade playdough for Felicity; she’s trying to make the playdough experience fun and memorable. Felicity is copying Jinger’s playdough creations, which is very sweet. Jeremy is busy with work and school, so Jinger works hard to keep Felicity entertained. Other moms talk about keeping their kids entertained. Jeremy talks about how his mom kept them entertained, and says he once fell asleep in playdough and got it stuck in his hair. Jessa says her kids have to keep playdough at the table. Felicity likes the playdough but does put it in her mouth of course. Felicity takes a cute picture, and then Jinger lets her out to go roam.
Back at John & Abbie's, it's 2:30am and Abbie is in labor, and has been since 4:30pm. They call the moms, and they head over to be there with Abbie. Abbie says she thinks it is time to head into the hospital, so they prepare to make their way in. John & Abbie arrive in the hospital, and Abbie is disappointed to learn that it might be false labor since she's only at 1cm and the contractions stalled out. They head home. They labor at home with the moms and Abbie's dad.
Abbie's contractions are getting more intense and close together. Abbie reads scriptures written for her at the baby shower. Abbie's dad also reads scripture to her. Abbie said he didn't imagine having her dad at her labor, but he was a calming presence and she was glad he was there. Around 2:30pm, they head to the doctor’s office, and Abbie is at 3cm—she’s made some progress, but not much. The doctors sends them to the hospital to see if they can help progress her. Abbie is a bit disappointed with the slow progress so far. Abbie & John are at the hospital, but they're exhausted.
Back at the main house, Jana takes the younger girls to the store to get provisions for John & Abbie. They end up filling a cart up and heading into the hospital with a bunch of food. Michelle meets them at the hospital as Abbie is in the tub. The family departs, worried about the slow progress. At 10pm, Abbie was only dilated to 5cm. Between 11pm and midnight, they moved rooms, got the epidural, and Pitocin. Abbie then slept for a couple of hours. Abbie progressed in her sleep, and at 2:15am she was 10cm dilated, and it was time to start pushing. Abbie pushed for 30 to 45 minutes, and at 3:21am, their daughter was born. Abbie & John are ecstatic to hold her for the first time. A card announces her name: Grace Annette Duggar.
Back home, John says they named their daughter Grace after Abbie's middle name and Annette after his mother's middle name. The family is coming over to meet her, and they are worried about fitting everyone in their tiny house. Everyone jokes about being stuck in there together, but they’re all excited to meet Gracie. They take a picture of the girl cousins—Ivy, Addison, Bella and Gracie—and Jessa says they will all be best friends. Jim Bob notes that he correctly guessed the weight- 7lbs 11oz. John says he is looking forward to hanging out with just him, Abbie, and Gracie. Abbie says it feels great to be a family of 3.
Two weeks later, John & Abbie are enjoying life as a family of 3. John calls her over to show her the finished video. John is excited to get to show Abbie the finished video. It is a very cute video showing their wedding, the pregnancy reveal at the photoshoot, and the well wishes from the families. Abbie is so surprised. They are excited to show it to Gracie again when she is older.
*Episode 10: From Snow to Sand
In LA, the Vuolo’s friends James & Seung Hye are in town. They've been friends for a while and have been on the show before: James photographed Jeremy's proposal to Jinger, and he & his wife Seung Hye went to visit the Vuolos in Laredo, and are now visiting them LA. Seung Hye says California is so warm and nice, and asks how they're settling in. Jinger says it feels like home, and they are excited to show their friends around. Jeremy says LA is one of the few areas of the country where you can quickly go from snow to sand, and that is the plan for the weekend. Everyone is excited for this plan.
Joe and Ben are throwing John a Dad-chelor Party—a play on "Bachelor party" for someone about to have a child. Gracie came early, but they've decided to go ahead with the party anyway. Ben says it will be fun to have some guy time and celebrate with John. They're gonna eat the "ultimate man food" (steaks) and play lots of games, like diaper basketball. Spurgeon asks if he can go, and Ben says yes. They head to run errands for the party. First, they go to the butcher shop and the grocery store. Then, they go to Jer & Jed's place, and Ben wets diapers in the sink to prepare for the diaper basketball game. The guys from the Duggar house arrive. Ben and Joe have gotten funny t-shirts for everyone; dad shirts for the dads and uncle shirts for the younger guys. Spurgeon says James is his favorite uncle because he fixes stuff when it's broken. Austin's shirt says, "I Make Cute Babies" and Josiah's says, "Ask Me About My Dad Jokes." In the talking heads, they tell dad jokes.
Back in California, the Vuolos and their friends arrive at the mountains of Big Bear Lake. It's a bit warm, but there is snow. Another friend, Madison, watches Felicity while everyone else heads up the mountain. They’re all excited for tubing and have fun going down the mountain multiple times. Jeremy teases James for wearing a Team USA Olympic jacket; James got the jacket because he did a photoshoot for Olympic figure skaters. After tubing, they head to the alpine slide where you ride on a little sled, and you can control your speed as you go. The Vuolos try to race—they both go down the hill fast, but Jinger uses her break a little, so Jeremy wins. James & Seung Hye go next, and James goes quickly as well. Seung Hye uses a heavy hand on her break and moves more slowly. Everyone teases her as she makes it to the end of the hill. Everyone had a fun day, and they are excited to go to the beach tomorrow.
Back in Arkansas, John arrives at his Dad-chelor party. John says they have been doing well since Gracie arrived—they've been laying low and staying home. Ben sets everyone up to play diaper basketball—it's best of 5. They have fun shooting diapers into the basketball hoop and making jokes. It ends up in a tie of John, Jer, Ben, Justin, and Josiah, who each made three baskets. These five go again to determine a winner. Justin ends up winning the tiebreaker. Next up, the guys serve the steaks—which are served as plain and without any sides. As they eat, they talk about Gracie. John says Abbie does most of the late nights to feed Gracie. In a talking head, Abbie says if she woke up him, he would do anything she needed. Joe says he doesn't wake up, he's a heavy sleeper; Austin says he's a light sleeper and wakes up Joy. Josiah, Austin, and Ben recount their experiences with newborns, and Ben says Ivy is their easiest baby yet. John says Gracie relies on them for everything and taking care of her is a privilege and an honor. Ben asks everyone to give encouragement to John, and says he is an encouragement to his family and he is excited for them. The other guys say they knew John would be a great dad because he was a great big brother, and they joke about the boys room. JB asks John what he misses about the boy's room, and John says, "absolutely nothing," and everyone laughs. The other brothers talk about what a good person John is, and Austin talks about how he always also saw John as a role model: he's wise beyond his years, and Austin is looking forward to seeing him raise Gracie. Ben says it is important for guys to affirm and encourage one another. John says the party was a lot of fun, and he really enjoyed it. JB says they should do this for every new grandbaby, and Justin jokes they'd be over every week if that was the case.
Back in LA, the Vuolos and friends head to Venice Beach for a picnic. Felicity is so cute—she loves the beach and food. She is very social, Jeremy says, and she is talking a lot to James and Seung Hye. Felicity is also particular: she doesn't like to have anything on her hands, especially sand. Jeremy says it is nice to be in a place where they can do things like this, and they should be more intentional about planning days out. Jeremy says that having Felicity means that they have to include extra planning, but it’s cool to see her explore the world. James asks Jeremy if he's been in the Pacific Ocean yet, and Jeremy says no. Jeremy and James agree to plunge in after lunch. They talk about kites—and Jeremy says he doesn't remember flying a kite ever. Jinger says they flew kites all the time growing up, but she's never done it on the beach. Jeremy brought a kite to their picnic and sets it up. There is no wind on Venice Beach that day, so Jeremy sprints to get it up in the air, but it doesn't last long. Felicity is not impressed with the kites at all. After running around with the kites, the two guys are ready to plunge into the ocean and head straight into the very cold water. It was freezing, but both guys are pleased with their dip. The “Snow to Sand” California adventure was a big hit.
Joy & Austin are expecting, and they are excited to reveal the gender to their family. Joy says the pregnancy has been harder since their loss, but the whole family is thrilled for them. The family gathers up together outside, and Jessa says just about every gender reveal has been used up so far. Joy is having John fly over in a helicopter and drop confetti over the group. The helicopter approaches, and everyone is looking for the color. Everyone guesses blue or pink, and Joy is so excited as the helicopter comes closer. Pink confetti rains down on them, and everyone celebrates. Michelle is surprised it is another granddaughter and everyone is excited for another little girl. This baby means it will officially be nine boy and nine girl Grand-Duggars. This reveal was over the top, but everyone is so excited for her. Joy says it has been a tough road, but she is excited and thankful everything is okay.
*Episode 11: Jana's Secret Garden
At Jessa's house, the babygeddon moms are getting their new baby girls together for the first time. Jessa wants to get the moms together to share experiences and advice for each other. Kendra says it is so fun having sisters-in-law close together all having babies together. Ivy is nine months old; Addison, Bella, and Maryella are three months old; and Gracie is one month old. Jessa is excited for all these cousins grow up together. Kendra brought a recipe for lactation cookies, and Anna brought ingredients for homemade baby soap. Kendra says there is a lot of mom guilt and pressure to breastfeed. With Garrett she had trouble with her supply, and he was also lip and tongue tied, which made latching difficult, so she only nursed for two to three months, and she felt a lot of guilt about it. Kendra says as long as they're being fed and they're healthy, as a mom you're doing your job. Anna is up next, and they all begin to work on the soap. Jessa says her mom has recipes that saved them money over the years, and you can pick the ingredients that work for your family. Jessa takes the cookies out of the oven, tries one, and enjoys it. Next, they decide to line the cousins up in order to take a picture. Maryella keeps sliding over, but they manage to get a few cute snaps of the girls altogether.
Meanwhile, in Knoxville, John, Abbie, and Jana are visiting the city. This is just a decoy to get Jana out of the house while the family surprises her with a greenhouse. Back in Arkansas, the family gets to work on the greenhouse. The family wants to show their appreciation for Jana, and since Jana has such an interest in gardening, this seemed like the way to do it. It is raining, which means they haven't poured a slab yet.
In Knoxville, Jana and John go to a woodworking class to make signs. Jana and John are twins, so they did a lot together until he got into being a pilot. But since he's settled down, she's seeing more of him. Both twins are glad to be spending time together just the two of them. John and Jana talk about Arbor Acres, Jana's new dream, which is a small business she started. Jana says it is still in the beginning stages, but she is hoping to sell décor and maybe some gardening stuff. Jana plans for it to be online only, at least for now. Jana is the first daughter to start a business, and John says it is beyond what the brothers have done with just flipping. Overall, the class is fun, they finish their signs and John says she isn't suspicious at all.
Back in Arkansas, the slab for the greenhouse has been poured, and the guys are figuring out how to build the greenhouse itself. There's some tension as the guys try to figure out how things go. JB says many of the boys have surpassed his abilities with building. The frame begins to come together, and the guys should be able to pull this off in time.
Joy, Anna, and Michelle have assembled the younger kids to decorate pots for the greenhouse. Giving kids paint can be messy, but it so be very cute. Joy is 14 weeks pregnant, and Gideon is constantly getting into stuff. Gideon eats a tiny amount of paint, gets most of it all over his arms, and he is a lot to keep up with. They get the pots finished and put the kids down for naps.
Back in Knoxville, Jana, Abbie, and Gracie head to a hair salon to get Jana’s hair done. Jana wants some dimension in her hair and to keep the length and fullness. Jana says she always volunteers to go on trips with her siblings since she loves to travel. The hair stylist asks if Jana has a boyfriend, and she says no. Jana says it gets old to get asked, especially since it's not the only thing in the world to talk about. The hair stylist says she is still so young, and Jana says she wouldn't mind having someone to hang out with the married siblings. She doesn't like the married/single division of the family and likes to hang out with all her siblings together. Abbie says she's been married for a year and a half, and it felt natural. In a talking head, John says he was content being single until he met Abbie, and then he knew she was the one. Jana notes that a lot of her siblings get married young, so she gets set up a lot. She doesn't think she's "really picky," she just hasn’t found the right person yet. Jana says her preferences have changed, but that's more from knowing herself better than from dropping her standards. Everyone is excited for the big hair reveal. Jana likes her new hairdo, and it is exactly what she wanted.
Back in Arkansas, Jessa and Laura DeMasie arrive and are impressed with the greenhouse. They talk about the big reveal, and they joke that Jana won't be overly emotional, she'll just say thank you. They are excited about their project. The time has come to install the greenhouse glass, and the guys are worried it will break. There are some tense moments as they get the glass in place. They get it in place and begin to think it will be done in time for tomorrow. The next morning, the guys put the finishing touches on the greenhouse and the locking mechanism on the sliding doors aren't working.
In Knoxville, John, Abbie, Jana, and Gracie prepare to get into the air to fly to Springdale. John says it will be a three to five hour flight, and the timing is going to be really tight.
In Arkansas, there is a little more than an hour before Jana arrives, and the guys are putting the last touches on the greenhouse before the girls move in the plants and the pots the kids decorated for her. The flight touches down in Arkansas, and they have a 45 minute drive home. John says he thinks Jana isn't suspecting anything. On the drive down, JB calls John to tell him to go a different way so Jana doesn't see the greenhouse from the road. John tells Jana the road is closed, and he needs to take a backroad. They pull up to the house, and everyone is waiting for the surprise. They head inside, and no one is there. John leads Jana outside to go see everyone, since otherwise she would probably just go upstairs and settle in. When Jana comes out, she is surprised to see balloons and a table set up, and then she sees the greenhouse. Jana is excited, and everyone comes out to see her. Jana does tear up a bit, and everyone is surprised she actually cried. John says Jana thought she was just going to show off her new 'do, and instead got this great surprise. Jana is excited to see her dream come to life, and she is feeling grateful and loved by her family. Jana is shocked that her family pulled this off without her suspecting anything. John says Jana deserves so much more than a greenhouse, but they are glad to give her this. Jana says she is blown away, and it means a lot.
*Episode 12: A Quarantine Courtship
This episode is recorded by the Duggars on their own due to the coronavirus.
John David explains that things are crazy in the world right now, and there is a lot of fear of the unknown. Jeremy says there has been camaraderie among neighbors and everyone is in this fight together.
It's Abbie's birthday, and John is planning to bake her a cake. Abbie is turning 28, and Gracie is three months old. Abbie says the first three months of motherhood have been good. John says he is making a cake since it is difficult to buy a gluten-free, sugar-free cake. Abbie is gluten- and sugar-free for medical reasons, and John David says it was hard to track down all the ingredients for the cake with the grocery store having reduced supplies.
Meanwhile, some of the sisters are decorating their cars for a drive-by birthday celebration for Abbie. Joy says the Duggars always make birthdays a big deal, but with the social distancing it has been harder. Jim Bob is driving a three wheel sports car, which one of the boys recently traded for. Jessa says this has been a little taste of what Jinger deals with being at a distance all the time. As John bakes, the parade approaches their house and Jim Bob begins honking. Abbie hears some horns, and John tells Abbie to go see what they're doing. Abbie grabs Gracie and they head out to see all the family driving by. Abbie says it was so much fun to have her own birthday parade. Everyone drops off gifts for her as well, and Abbie is really surprised. Kendra says she thinks it was a fun surprise, and Joy says she thinks Abbie was really surprised. Abbie said she appreciated everyone taking time out of their day to wish her a happy birthday. Meanwhile, John sings Happy Birthday to Abbie and she blows out the candles on her cake. The cake is impressive, and Abbie really enjoys it.
At the main house, Jana, Johannah, Jennifer, and Jordyn are having a face-mask-making session. Jana says she got a pattern online to make their own mask after the government recommended wearing them. Jana says the whole family can sew, whether that's making a whole outfit or sewing a button. John says the lifestyle changes are difficult since COVID hit, but they're trying to follow the guidelines. Jana says the younger kids are good, but they miss family members and they don't fully get the scope of what's going on.
In LA, Jinger is sorting through Felicity's old, too-small clothes to send some to her cousins in Arkansas. Jinger says this is a good time to get projects done. Although, she has only half-finished some projects—she has a couch on its side because she was taking the legs off to move it and got three off but couldn't get one and didn't want to go to the hardware store. Jinger says seeing the old outfits takes her back to when Felicity was small. As she packs them into boxes, she has Felicity say "bye-bye, clothes" and Jinger is glad the clothes will go to family. Producers ask if Jinger thinks the clothes will make it back to her again, and Jinger says "I don't know," very coyly.
At the Seewald’s, Jessa calls Michelle and invites her to come over and visit through the window so they can see Ivy walking. She's been walking around recently, and the Seewalds are excited. Ben says with three mobile kids, you have to be constantly focused and alert and make sure the bathroom door is closed because Ivy loves to run in there and mess with stuff. The Duggars head over, and everyone waves through the window. Henry is sad he can't invite them inside. Jessa puts Ivy down, and she takes a few steps for them. everyone outside cheers. Spurgeon says she'll walk to him if he says, "come to me." Ivy kisses Jordyn through the glass, and Jana says it is hard to be on the other side of the glass but nice to see Ivy walking in person. Ben says it was a little unconventional, but they're glad they could be there for the moment.
Jana says the girls are going to deliver masks to their family members who don't live in the main house, and they're dropping them off at the doorstep of each house. They drop of masks for John & Abbie, Joe & Kendra (who don't seem to be home), and then Joy & Austin (whose dog, Brielle, immediately goes for the bag). Joy saves the masks from Brielle and thanks the girls. Josie says she thinks everyone liked the masks.
About three months into the pandemic, the Duggar family gathers for family video chat. The Vuolos have an announcement: they're expecting, and the family is really excited for them. Jinger is 13 weeks, and her due date is November 19 and she is feeling good. Jeremy tells everyone to guess the gender by giving them a task to find a pink or blue item around the house; Jinger and Jeremy will guess, too, and everyone will find out the gender together. Everyone has five minutes to run around the house to find something or color something for their guess. Jinger says this is the longest they've waited to announce anything, and they're excited. Everyone comes back with their guesses. It ends up an even 14 guesses for girl and 14 guesses for boy. Both the Vuolos think it is a girl. Jeremy pulls out a soccer ball, which is full of pink or blue powder. Everyone counts down, and Jeremy kicks the soccer ball. The soccer ball explodes pink. Everyone celebrates—and John (who guessed girl) teases Austin (who guessed boy). The Vuolos are thrilled. The girl grandchildren now have the lead, and this makes it 19 grandkids and counting. Jim Bob mentions Lauren's birthday was yesterday, and Ben has his 25th birthday today, but he's stepped away with the boys. And then Justin in Texas joins the video chat, and he has some news. He introduces Claire, and announces they are in an official relationship. Justin says Claire is 19, he is 17, and they met at a family conference. A few months after meeting, they made their relationship official. Claire is outgoing and sweet, and the family is excited for the two of them, and they hope she will be able to visit from Texas soon. Justin says even though they can't go out, they can spend quality time together and be creative. Jessa says when you're in love, it doesn't matter. Jim Bob concludes the call. Jessa wraps up the past year: a lot of joys, some hard times. Joy & Austin are excited to meet their baby girl and watch Gideon grow and see their kids together. Jana says the future will be busy: more weddings, more babies. Jacksons says more relationships, and Justin says you never know where it will go.
*Special: "Duggars in Quarantine"
JB & Michelle talk about hearing about the virus and thinking about how far away it was. None of the Duggars expected it to hit the United States as badly as it has. It got close to the Duggars and they realized how serious it was. The Duggars plan to stay home, wash their hands, etc. Jinger & Jeremy are under a stay at home order in CA and are not going out. Jessa takes her kids (and Ben) to run an errand—Ben and the kids are just along for the ride and will stay in the car. Ben says he is an optimist most of the time but has really been trying to limit his contact with the public. Jessa says she usually lives off of curbside grocery pick up but hasn't been able to get slots. Jessa & Ben are out of a lot of fresh and frozen foods and diapers. Ben has said they bulk bought toilet paper before the pandemic, thankfully. Jessa says buying in bulk reminds her of shopping growing up. JB & Michelle talk about how shopping restrictions are difficult for their size of family--they end up shopping like every three days and going without certain items.
The Seewalds are off to the grocery store, and Jessa shows her homemade face covering. Jessa says in the South, people used to smile and nod and chat and that isn't happening anymore. Jessa says that aspect will take people a while to recover from. Jessa heads into the store. Jessa & Ben say being home together more has been more difficult and led to more disagreements about who gets to do the shopping, etc. Jessa shows her grocery store being wiped out. Jessa can't find beans. She shows her grocery haul: lots of eggs and bread, pasta, etc. Jessa jokes that there is still ice cream.
In LA, Jinger talks about their quarantine. It has been a month. Jinger and Felicity hang out outside, and Jinger shows her coffee. She says the days are long. Jinger & Jeremy wear masks and gloves when they go out, and socially distance on walks. Jeremy shows his makeshift office in the guest room. Jinger is trying to keep Felicity downstairs, but Felicity knows Jeremy is upstairs and wants to go see him. Jinger says she'll bribe her with fruit snacks or a cookie if she gets really insistent. Jeremy plays soccer with Felicity outside. They joke that they just have one kid, though, and can’t imagine having 19.
At the main house, the family says they have been distancing from their married siblings. Johannah misses seeing her nieces and nephews. Weekly Family Night has gone virtual. Ben has been video-chatting the kids to help with school. Michelle and Josie make cleaning wipes with paper towels. Michelle says they already make a lot at home. The little girls start wiping. Michelle says most of the kids at home are not germaphobes, but they are being more careful of wiping stuff down, carrying hand sanitizer, and more due to the coronavirus. JB says everyone is having to work together to make it through this.
John & Abbie are home together now. John is cleaning off land for them to start a garden. John & Abbie say they have a shortage on some supplies, but a garden will help supplement their food. Abbie says that as a nurse, she is thinking of the frontline nurses. She previously worked in nursing home, and if she had been working she would be with the elderly, a vulnerable population. She wants to help, but she also wants to protect Gracie. They've talked about it. Their garden is starting to come in, and John says it is a good idea for people to get into gardening during this time if they can. Abbie jokes it's too bad they can't grow toilet paper.
Jana has her little sisters paint in her garden with her. JB & Michelle talk about homeschooling and people in the business community showing more grace towards each other due to having kids at home. JB says you can talk to your kids about their heart more when you see them more. Jessa says Ben has had trouble since they live in a two-bedroom house and he was in the last six weeks of school. Ben feels bad that he can't be fully present with his kids when he is studying. Jana explains watercolors to Josie. Michelle says spending all day together teaches you to get along. Jana and the girls finish painting, and she said she realized that it is a good idea to start on different levels for different kids.
At Jessa & Ben’s, the kids have made a fort with chairs, and Spurgeon says they have talking viruses in their fort. Jessa says it is surprising what they've picked up. The Seewalds are doing a backyard picnic lunch to change things up. Jessa says this is hard to talk about with young kids, and they don't understand why they can't go see their grandparents or family. The Seewald kids hang out in the backyard.
The Duggars have Family Fun Night virtually. They play games, like family trivia. One of the questions asks who the 10th Duggar grandchild is. The only ones who get it right are the Seewalds—it’s Gideon, so Joy & Austin are surprised they didn't get it right. Austin argues that they should get a point for having him. Another question is related to soccer and Jeremy is disappointed in those who didn't get it right. Jeremy jokingly accused some people of cheating and said they blamed internet lag. Jessa & Ben are correct the answer for longest courtship, and Josiah asks who had the longest engagement—himself and Lauren, of course! Joy gets frustrated that her dad keeps giving everyone points when she doesn't feel they earned it. There is a final round in which the answer is 69. Ben is thrilled to get it right because he & Jessa have now won the whole game. JB & Michelle joke that they won toilet paper. Joy says she thinks it is important to spend time with family. Everyone is excited to see the babies as well on the chat. Everyone is looking forward to the time they can be together in person and can go on with life more normal. Jana says they will have the biggest party ever once they can. Jessa asks if anyone has any announcements since the whole family is together. Jer says Jed has an announcement, and Jed announces he is not in a relationship. Jer announces he is not pregnant. They wrap the call up.
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