Sunday, November 23, 2008

New Episode - Yard Sale


Jon and Kate have realized how much they've accumulated over the last four years and have decided it's time to clean house and hold a Gosselin-sized yard sale!

143 comments:

Anya@IW said...

Anyone think the haters may take it down a notch with their comments seeing how it is Thanksgiving week?


?







Nah. Me either.

Guinevere said...

I'd like to think so...but the fact is that these people don't see anything wrong with how hateful they are. I don't understand how or why, but it's obvious that they don't. So I doubt it will make a difference.

girlme said...

They will probably be worse...they will have a couple days off work to sit and think about how the Gosselin's are making their lives miserable.

Carol B said...

They are painfully predictable. Here's what they'll say: Kate isn't thankful for anything, not the free clothes and toys, not the personal organic chef, not the free trips, not the twelve million dollar house TLC built them, not the help they've received from hundreds if not thousands of people they've kicked out of their lives or her eunuch husband. In this economy why are they getting all of these things they are not thankful for? If they were thankful they would hug and kiss everyone they see but they never do. And I bet they won't give Mady any turkey, they treat her so badly. Cara's going to have a miserable thanksgiving, she's always unhappy. The sextuplets will have bibs and sippy cups in their high chairs at the dinner table, oh the abuse!

I saved them some typing. Maybe they can use the time to go help people who actually need help.

Anonymous said...

Ah yes - The Cult of Gosselin Victimhood.

Amazing . . .

"Look at what they've done to us now!"

Ann said...

Take it down a notch Anya?
I expect something along these lines:

Is this the episode where the Gosselins have the gall to try to raise money from the sale of donated clothing or freebies for a children's charity? Once again, they exploit sick children all to burnish their image for the sheeple! The nerve of these people. We should write to this charity and insist they return this blood money!

*Disclaimer: Not a direct quote....yet. Give them time.

Anonymous said...

Good grief ...

I am NOT a fan of Kates - that being said, I frequent BOTH blogs, and have "usually" felt this was the better one. What I HATE, are comments like the one that started out this discussion !!! For Pete's sake, please .... try to refrain from saying "those haters" - it makes this blog look like it's infact NOT a fair a balanced place to discuss the show. You "set up" the conversation by basically saying, in so many words, "this conversation is not for you ... this is a pro-gosselin discussion, and blog" .... please don't do that, because there are a lot of people like me, who are NOT haters, but not lovers either, and ya, we DO want a place to do. Is this it or not ?????????? I'd like to know for real.

Nina Bell said...

momtotwoboys,

This blog is for what people who frequent this blog and post here want to make it. It is for what they want to comment on. I am not sure if you just read here, comment here or just want to express your dissatisfaction here.

So are you asking me to deny or reject their comments so you can feel better about posting yours?

Anonymous said...

What I think they're talking about, momtotwoboys, is the people who feel the need to nitpick every single moment in the Gosselins life. The people who claim child advocacy but spend most of their time harping on Kate's hair, her figure, and anything else they can find wrong. People who think the only good the Gosselins do is for damage control and due to a PR firm.

This site, I can tell, has people from every side of the spectrum. People who like Kate, people who identify with her or realize how much stress shes under, or people who dont really like her but dont wish harm on her or compare her to the likes of someone who would kill their child. Some people really do just see that the kids need to be out of the spotlight a little to give them a little break.

This blog has always been a little bit about the show and a little bit to discuss the crazy hounds that email everyone who does something positive for the Gosselins, the "sheeple" if you will. I have always seen fair and balanced discussion, even if some people feel picked apart sometimes...at least their opinion gets through.

Nina Bell said...

momtotwoboys,

And by the way, I kind of fall into the same category as you. I am not a big fan of Kates. But I also understand she is human and makes mistakes like I do. And here I am in every thread discussing whatever the topic is. It can be done.

Anonymous said...

Saint said,
Is this the episode where the Gosselins have the gall to try to raise money from the sale of donated clothing or freebies for a children's charity? Once again, they exploit sick children all to burnish their image for the sheeple! The nerve of these people. We should write to this charity and insist they return this blood money!

If you remove the words "have the gall to" and stop with this sentence that is what the show is, right. Not being mean but, they sell donated items and give to charity the proceeds.

On this matter I think J&K have done less than they promised. Any thing donated would be given back.

Anya@IW said...

Saint said..."We should write to this charity and insist they return this blood money!"

LOL. The scary thing is you and I know something along these lines will be said.

Carol said..."And I bet they won't give Mady any turkey, they treat her so badly. Cara's going to have a miserable thanksgiving, she's always unhappy. The sextuplets will have bibs and sippy cups in their high chairs at the dinner table, oh the abuse!"

And I bet the favored child - "Hannie" - will get two pieces of pie!!!

Anya@IW said...

Thanks, Elizabeth and Nina for addressing this. You put it better than I could.

Momtotwoboys, why don't you post your own thoughts? It seems like a couple of people have a problem with the sale of donated items. What do you think about that? I am sure a reasonable discussion can be had about this.

MrsRef said...

I personally would have a more positive view of the yard sale if it was just done in the spirit of giving to charity and not filmed as an episode. Using it for the show gives a grandstanding appearance to it. While I would personally rather give the toys and clothing to a family who is less fortunate I suppose these items are the Gosselins to sell or give away as they see fit.

Samantha@IW said...

Carol-
LOL I LOVED your post!!!

PS. Poor Alexis will probably have to eat her dinner in the basement.

erin said...

Anya said: "And I bet the favored child - "Hannie" - will get two pieces of pie!!!"

Someone will no doubt add (based on the comments I have seen) "Not that she needs it." After the "ogre" comments (which subsequently disappeared and were denied when they were called on it) about Hannah I put nothing past them.

Unknown said...

LOL! You guys are so right. The comments are soooo predictable!

What I would like to see, what would make the "others" crazy, is that at the end of the show it said...

The proceeds made from this episode will be donated to the Pediatric Cancer Fund in its entirety.

That would be a gesture of all gestures and I think would be fitting to the framework of this particular episode.

Ann said...

I'm sorry but I don't believe that every single item in the Gosselins' house that they've outgrown has been handed to them for free. That an assumption, not a fact.
I do not think that the Gosselins got nothing donated. But everything? That would also be silly to believe. I know Jon promised somewhere, years ago, that he would donate what they received as donations. I also think that would be a very difficult promise to keep since throwing away just one donated, torn undershirt, instead of putting it in the Goodwill rag bag, would break the promise.

The Gosselins have been taken to task for not donating enough. Do you know what they do with their donations? How? Do you really believe that PennMommy, who lives in Bakersfield, CA, knows about Kate's visits to consignment shops? Do you think that Jodi's sister Julie, who also lives hours away, knows about Kate's trips to consignment shops? What if the Gosselins donate privately without the public seeing? How would you know?

When they do raise money for a charity publicly (filmed as an episode) they are criticized for showing that they have kept this promise. Does everyone see how difficult this particular issue is for the Gosselin's? How could they satisfy their critics, some of whom demand that they donate everything to set an example, but without anyone knowing? When you're damned if you do, and damned if you don't, do the right thing.

I'm also not a Kate Gosselin fan. I just don't think every criticism of her is fair, accurate, or reasonable. This is an example of it.

Good for the Gosselins for taking the stuff that was donated to them for their pleasure and use, as well as other stuff that they earned by allowing TLC to show us their lives, and capitalizing on their moderate fame to raise money for a worthy cause. What could anyone criticize them for in that?

Ann said...

Here's how you can tell if this blog is more "fair and balanced" than another:

Take a controversial issue, say, how they deal with Mady, and see how it is discussed at both blogs. At this blog, you'll see some disagreement. At the other...not so much.

Take this thread...donations/yard sale. How is it discussed at the two blogs?

How about Kate? How is she discussed at the two blogs?

Pro-Gosselin posters have only one place to go. Those of us with mixed feelings, we also have only one place to post. Those of us who fall on the other side of the line, who think the show is bad for the kids generally, we've got two places to post.

The only posters kept off this blog, from what I can tell, is lying "insiders" with dirt to dish on the Gosselins.

Disclaimer: I'm only talking about GDNNOP and GWoP now.

Anonymous said...

"So are you asking me to deny or reject their comments so you can feel better about posting yours?"

No, I think she's saying maybe a mod could step in and redirect conversation occasionally to keep a thread on the subject it was intended to discuss.
The constant discussion of haters or the other blog makes this blog look, as someone noted: it makes this blog look like it's in fact NOT a fair a balanced place to discuss the show. You "set up" the conversation by basically saying, in so many words, "this conversation is not for you ... this is a pro-gosselin discussion, and blog"

It's a valid point because so many GDNP threads veeer off into discussions of GWoP and the original topic is long gone. And here's this new show thread immediately doing it out of the gate.

Beth said...

I never understood the theory that the Gosselins were out of line for selling donated items.

Personally, when I donate something to someone I am doing so to help them out. If selling the item I have donated to them helps them, then by all means that is what they should do.

Why do people donate items and then have an expectation or feel that they have a say in what is actually done with that item? Isn't it a gift? Shouldn't it be given without strings attached?

I am in full support of the Gosselins selling their donated items as well as the items they have purchased themselves, at their garage sale. They made over $1,000 (if I am not mistaken) for a great charity! Do the people that donated the potties really want them back?

Yes, the Gosselins could of found people to "give" the items to. However, because of their "fame" I bet they brought in more money selling the items and could help the charity a lot more then if they found 6 people that need used potties!

Even if the Gosselins had turned around and actually donated the items themselves, the haters would find something to complain about! The Gosselins with always be behind the eight ball in some people's eyes!

I am interested in seeing if Jon or Kate mention anything about the move in tonights episode.

Unknown said...

Do you think that Jodi's sister Julie, who also lives hours away, knows about Kate's trips to consignment shops?


In the episode where the kids went to the dentist, Kate did say one of their stops was to consigment.

Mom said...

I honestly don't view the Gap and Gymboree clothes the children wear as being "donated." They are given to the children so their brand can be marketed on the tv show.

I understand MrsRefs statement about the sale being televised. I think it takes away from the "genuine-ness" as well.

With that being said, I feel the Gs can't win no matter what they do. If it's televised, then some people want to cry "damage control." If it's not televised, then people cry "selfish, uncharitable, you-know-whats."

I would cry foul if they were keeping the money for themselves, given their current circumstances.

Their donated proceeds are going to a charity (pediatric cancer research, I believe) that is very near and dear to my heart. Our 4yo nephew was diagnosed with leukemia (ALL) right before his second birthday. Any amount given - great or small - is appreciated by charities like PCR and Ronald McDonald House. And, we can't forget, in addition to the actual "check," these charities, thanks to the show, are given priceless PR and awareness.

Nina Bell said...

Roy,

She never really brought up GWoP. You did. She brought up the phrase "haters."

There are so many boards out there that are spewing actual hate. Could be any blog that someone is referring to.

I am pretty confident Roy, that you are a regular at GWoP as is momtotwoboys. I also am pretty confident that you have a screen name that is registered with google that you could use here if you could be brave enough.

I have a feeling that momoftwo only posted here because she is frustrated over our discussions about GWoP and because many people have a different opinion here than the one that she holds. So her mission was to pretend like she posts here and say "how unfair or balanced smalanced."


Most of the time we receive these comments from trolls. We have so many posts that have nothing to do with GWoP or the Gosselins but I don't see you or momtotwoboys posting there. In fact, I can't recall momtotwoboys posting here before.

So I will do us all a favor and I will quit posting comments critical of other commenters here if all it does is take away from the topic.

Unknown said...

Roy,

That used to bother me as well, this blog using another blog's postings as a topic of conversation.

However, I do see the relevance in discussing the so over the top comments. (sorry if those of you think I am flip-flopping again)

Is it best to just ignore the crazy hate filled comments or try and temper them with more than just a one sided POV as GWOP does?
(It's not like anyone could post an opposing view even if they wanted too)

I think GDNNP takes what is said over there and the bloggers are allowed to post all viewpoints.

In addition, I think it is important for people to know that not everyone agrees with GWOP's methods of maddness.

The blog allows the same posters over and over and over to post ANON such rantings as how terrible an 8:30 pm bedtime is so inappropriate for the little kids.

Yea, I think it should be discussed here...you bet I do.

BuckeyeMomof5 said...

BEE said...
I never understood the theory that the Gosselins were out of line for selling donated items.
___________________________________

For me it's not so much that they are 'out of line', it's more that they have been given so much that it seems they would want to reach out and help someone else in need like they were. What if everyone had done the same as them and given their money/time/donations to someone else and ignored the needs of the twins and tups when the G's actually did need the help?

Plus, I know of at least one quote from Jon saying they would donate the things donated to them to someone else who needed them and then they consigned/sold the things instead.

Ann said...

Fiona wrote:
In the episode where the kids went to the dentist, Kate did say one of their stops was to consigment.

Thanks, Fiona. That's true but....

My point is that none of us know what has been sold through consignment...Julie and Crazy CA Bloggers don't either. Some of the sordid details about the consignment shops came from the Crazy CA Blogger Disguised As Former Volunteer. Don't believe them.

Ann said...

Plus, I know of at least one quote from Jon saying they would donate the things donated to them to someone else who needed them and then they consigned/sold the things instead.

What donated items were consigned/sold? Do you realize that you're referencing a made up story by a Crazy CA Blogger? Why do you still believe that?

As Fiona pointed out, the Gosselins, like a lot of people, use consignment shops. How do you know that they don't donate money from the consignment sales to charity? One way to donate items to someone in need is to sell them in a garage sale/consignment, then give $$$ to charity.

Anya@IW said...

Saint said...
Fiona wrote:
In the episode where the kids went to the dentist, Kate did say one of their stops was to consigment.

Thanks, Fiona. That's true but....

My point is that none of us know what has been sold through consignment...Julie and Crazy CA Bloggers don't either. Some of the sordid details about the consignment shops came from the Crazy CA Blogger Disguised As Former Volunteer. Don't believe them.


Exactly!!! I think Saint's point was made for her right here.

Julie, crazy lady from Bakersfield, all the Anon posters at GWoP, Saint, Fiona, the lovely ladies of GDNNOP, me, etc., WE ALL have the SAME information - an off-hand comment made in one episode. That's the extent of our "insider" knowledge about the Gosselins' consignment shop practices.

Samantha@IW said...

Just love it when certain poosters comment solely for the purpose of telling us what we should and shouldnt discuss.

BuckeyeMomof5 said...

Saint said...
What donated items were consigned/sold? Do you realize that you're referencing a made up story by a Crazy CA Blogger? Why do you still believe that?
___________________________________

No I'm not referencing something said by a 'crazy CA blogger'...he (Jon) was quoted in an interview saying that about donations.

Also, if you go to archived pages of their website you will see that things like their strollers, the 6 seat table they used to feed the tups, and many other items were all listed for sale and then marked sold.

Now, you are right that no one knows for sure they didn't donate the money for those items...but I highly doubt they did!

Unknown said...

You know, I tend to believe that the G's probably did not donate the things they said they would. They just strike me as not the must honest folks, and would in their mind justify that for whatever reason.

But I do recognize that their situation has changed financially and maybe they have learned a thing or two along the way.

I for one was not put off by the way Kate handed off her check to the RM House. It seemed in keeping with the theme of that particular episode.

But filming the charity sale was killing 2 birds with one stone...they got some PR doing a charity gig, but they also earned their income for the day.

That is the distasteful and tacky part for me. As I said before, I would LOVE, LOVE to see that those proceeds were donated as well, but I do doubt it.

As popular as they are, they could have done the sell without the film crew. Word got out on its own by people who were there, and then they did post the amount made on their website. It should have stopped there IMO, and I think it would have appeared more genuine.

Anonymous said...

I did read somewhere that they sold the potties at this sale.
That is just gross..regardless of who is selling or who is getting the money...
Why sell used potties or buy them? Goodwill won't even take those.
Yuck.

Anonymous said...

Kate admitted in her book that they sold donated things. If you collect something on the promise of returning the favor you better expect to look like your greedy if you sell those items. They did they admitted it as well. So actually Saint and Bee they set the standard. PM, Julie non of that is relevant here because KATE said it.

Yard sales probably produce the least amount of revenue for items being sold. My point is why not donate these items to a womans shelter, homeless shelter, Amvets. This way they can be used over and do as much good as a $1300 donation. The cause is great though, I agree.

Mom I dont necessarily consider those items as gifts either, but why consign them.

Anonymous said...

Fiona good post

Ann said...

Truthcomesout,
I apologize. You were not referencing a Crazy CA Blogger when you wrote what Jon promised. I agree(d) with that. I should have been more specific. I meant when you wrote that they consigned/sold the items promised to people who needed them. I do know that there was a story the Crazy CA Blogger made up about them selling items needed by another (military) couple. That story has been referenced specifically and more generally since, as if it were fact. I understand you don't mean that, though. You meant the items for sale on their website. And you have acknowledged this point for me: Now, you are right that no one knows for sure they didn't donate the money for those items...
You can doubt it. I think that they probably give to charity now that they feel more financially secure; and that IS returning donations to those in need.

Guinevere said...

I am NOT a fan of Kates - that being said, I frequent BOTH blogs, and have "usually" felt this was the better one. What I HATE, are comments like the one that started out this discussion !!! For Pete's sake, please .... try to refrain from saying "those haters" - it makes this blog look like it's infact NOT a fair a balanced place to discuss the show.

How so? When people joke about Kate Gosselin being killed, when they talk about hoping she'll end up alone with all of her kids hating her, when they compare her to various murderers...we aren't supposed to call those people haters? When they denigrate the appearance of a four-year-old girl, repeatedly, simply because that child is regarded as the Gosselin parents' "favorite"...we aren't supposed to call them haters? When they repeatedly question Jon Gosselin's manhood, I guess because he can't keep his wimminfolk in line, that's not hate? Come on.

If you don't do these things, or associate with people who do, why are you so offended by people calling a spade a spade? You aren't being accused.

You "set up" the conversation by basically saying, in so many words, "this conversation is not for you ... this is a pro-gosselin discussion, and blog" .... please don't do that, because there are a lot of people like me, who are NOT haters, but not lovers either, and ya, we DO want a place to do.

You've been around long enough to know that you are perfectly welcome to take the middle ground here and no one will make you feel unwelcome. That doesn't mean that you have the right to direct other people's conversation. There is a lot posted here that I don't like; I either respond or ignore it. I don't tell people what they can and can't talk about.

Like it or not, the haters are a big, big part of the Gosselin discussion. They are a topic of discussion here. They aren't the only topic of discussion. We are not a Gosselin love board or the anti-GWoP. We don't post only comments that support our agenda (which is good, since we don't really have an agenda). Posters are allowed a fair amount of latitude in posting. This board is not just about the Gosselins or the show, and again, you've been around long enough to know that.

No, I think she's saying maybe a mod could step in and redirect conversation occasionally to keep a thread on the subject it was intended to discuss.
The constant discussion of haters or the other blog makes this blog look, as someone noted: it makes this blog look like it's in fact NOT a fair a balanced place to discuss the show.


The mods here don't feel the need to keep a thread "on the subject" - if it veers too far off in a particular direction, we may open a new thread to discuss whatever is being discussed in that thread. Other than that, we're pretty hands off as far as directing discussion. And Roy, I think you know that, as well, as this is a subject you've brought up before.

I don't want anyone to feel unwelcome, but I also don't like posters coming in and telling people what they can and can't talk about. If you want to talk about something else, change the discussion - post something yourself. Whenever someone complains about the direction of the discussion, I get the feeling that the poster feels everyone else is just here to entertain them. Which is obviously not the case.

Guinevere said...

When they do raise money for a charity publicly (filmed as an episode) they are criticized for showing that they have kept this promise. Does everyone see how difficult this particular issue is for the Gosselin's? How could they satisfy their critics, some of whom demand that they donate everything to set an example, but without anyone knowing? When you're damned if you do, and damned if you don't, do the right thing.

You know, I've complained about that before, but the people who criticize the "grandstanding" never have any response. They have set up a situation where the Gosselins literally can't win, and when you call them on it, the answer is a deafening silence. It's frustrating.

Guinevere said...

I did read somewhere that they sold the potties at this sale.
That is just gross..regardless of who is selling or who is getting the money...
Why sell used potties or buy them? Goodwill won't even take those.
Yuck.


Eh. I think if you disinfected them with boiling water and about a case of Lysol they'd be okay. And I'm a germaphobe!

It seems like more trouble than it's worth, but maybe some people can't afford new ones, or they prefer reused items for the lesser environmental impact they offer.

Anonymous said...

"I am pretty confident Roy, that you are a regular at GWoP as is momtotwoboys. I also am pretty confident that you have a screen name that is registered with google that you could use here if you could be brave enough."

You would be wrong about the assumption of being a poster at GWoP. To be very honest, I only know of GWoP as the other blog posters refer to. If there are other blogs out there about the Gosselins that are basically negative, I'm not aware of them, nor do I post there.

Having seen some of the tactics used on posters on the various sites during the PM saga, I don't use a "traceable" ID anywhere.

What I am baffled about is the rather defensive and hostile response when I have always been respectful of others and the mods when asking questions or stating an opinion.

Beth said...

So I guess that by having a garage sale and donating the proceeds, that doesn't equate to the Gosselins giving back to people in need?

I don't understand why people argue that they are greedy and don't do as they say when infact they have given back and they have donated the proceeds of items that were given to them by others or by sponsors?

How is giving the proceeds of their garage sale not charitable on their part? I am just not sure what people would rather them do? Give the actual items that were donated to them to other people?

And as far as taking things to consignment a year or so ago. Perhaps, they were donating that money to charities, perhaps they needed that money themselves....none of us know for sure!

Ann said...

NC Resident,
You wrote that if you collect something on the promise of returning the favor, you will look greedy if you don't do it. I agree with that. The problem is that you don't know what they received under that promise, what they consigned/sold, what they HAVE given away, and what amount of money they have donated anywhere (except what was/is shown on the show.) How could you? That's my point.

Here's my original point: the Gosselins will be criticized for taking items they own and selling them to raise money for a great charity. That's an unfair criticism.

Here's my last point/confession:
I have taken clothing that my children received as a gifts from past Christmases, that they have now outgrown, and I have sold them, at a significantly reduced cost, at a garage sale. I COULD have given them to other people's children for nothing. I didn't actually NEED the money. I just figured the $25 or so would go into my bank account and it would become part of the bigger amount we'll call "Saints' money to live on." Some of the bigger amount went for housing, heat, food, gas to get to our jobs/schools, tuition, and charity. But some of it went for vacation, Internet access, and Cheetoes. Was the $25 from the sale of gifts spent on blogging and Cheetoes? Or charity? What have I done wrong?

peanutbutterjellytime said...

Buying a used potty does seem gross. But you could always put a bunch of toilet paper on the seat, or even find some of those toilet seat covers and cut them to fit the child potty. =)

Nina Bell said...

Having seen some of the tactics used on posters on the various sites during the PM saga, I don't use a "traceable" ID anywhere.

Posting on any blog is as traceable with or without registered screen name.

I really do not believe that myself or anyone else posting here is defensive or hostile. I believe we are expressing our opinion just as your are.

Anonymous said...

I think J&K will be damned if they do, damned if they don't in this type of instance. If they don't show them donating on the show, people will assume they are selfish and don't do it..if they do, they are just doing it for the cameras and it isn't sincere.
There is no happy median.

MrsRef said...

Ican't believe I am saying this but why is buying a used potty any different than using the ladies room at the mall or work? It is probably actually less gross. Yeah, little bottoms were on it but I worry more about where big bottoms have been and what lovely diseases they may carry. At least you can disinfect the potty with a little bleach and hot water. You should see some of the stuff they sell at the Clean House yard sales. Anyone remember America's Messiest House episode from this year with the closet full of petrified cat poo. I wouldn't have bought anything from that house. Nasty.

Kikibee said...

Every time this episode (and the one featuring the Ronald McDonald house) is rerun, there are going to be viewers thinking that those are worthwhile charities to which they could donate. Or maybe a few kids will ask mom if they can sell some of their old toys so they can give to a favorite cause.

I don't care what J&K get out of it, they are still publicizing worthy causes and even setting a good example. How can that be bad?

Anonymous said...

"So I guess that by having a garage sale and donating the proceeds, that doesn't equate to the Gosselins giving back to people in need?"

This is what I'm trying to figure out. It seems that some people want them to give and also tell them just how they should give.

I think a lot of charities would appreciate cash over goods. Not that they wouldn't be grateful for donations of used things, but if they don't have to sort, store and handle stuff, it seems like it would make life easier. And cash can be used for specially what they need.

And I hate to say this but I've done some volunteer work at a Goodwill type place and there are people who will quite frankly donate trash and then be offended that it isn't found suitable. It goes with the territory; of course there are incredible generous people as well.

The Gosselins can't win on this issue; they will be criticized whether they show their charity efforts or not. They might as well do what they want.

Nina Bell said...

Anonymous,

Please resubmit your comment with a screen name. Thank you,

Ann said...

What I am baffled about is the rather defensive and hostile response when I have always been respectful of others and the mods when asking questions or stating an opinion.

Unless I am referring to PM, for whom I harbor disrespect, I have always been respectful, too, Roy. Sometimes commenters "read" the post as if I am being rude and aggressive. In fact, I have had to correct your perception of one of my posts. Have you considered that maybe you're partly to blame?
I like your posts. We agree and disagree. I hope you stay.

And...we are getting way off-topic. :)

Anonymous said...

Oh, I get it. So this is the BLOG where you trash the people who post on GWOP which is different than trashing beloved Katie Irene, et al in what way...?

Anonymous said...

I think the thing that baffles me the most, is why do people that really hate the Gosselins get so upset when someone likes them. I have said from the beginning that I find Kate annoying. But here is a news flash--if she got to know me, she might find me annoying :). It has been said repeatedly, but I guess it bears stating again--the "child advocates" would make a lot more progress by turning off the show and not blogging about it.

Guinevere said...

Oh, I get it. So this is the BLOG where you trash the people who post on GWOP which is different than trashing beloved Katie Irene, et al in what way...?

The purpose of this blog is not to trash people who post at GWoP. It's to discuss the show and the "controversy" around the show, which sometimes does involve criticizing the posters and bloggers at GWoP. One big difference is that we allow different POVs, which by and large GWoP does not (they would not, for instance, post a comment as snotty as yours unless it was directed at the Gosselins or their fans).

I don't think that those who post at GWoP think that their purpose is to trash Kate Gosselin; I believe the blog claims child advocacy as one its main purposes. But IMO very little substantive criticism or discussion is posted there. And I have to say that when GWoPpers come over here, they are often easy to identify by their hostility and inability or unwillingness to engage in a rational dialogue about the show or the issues that it brings up.

Nina Bell said...

Great response Guin,

I would also like to say that on another thread Anya said this:

"Some of the reactions (and lack of reactions) seem to be in line with what I have seen in the Gosselin blogging world. People just totally disengaged and not cognizant that they are writing about *real* people - a real family.

And Linda responded with this:


You hit the nail on the head. They feign indignation that that the posts submitted by their nameless/faceless identities on the internet are being critiqued while they slam real live people including children.

This kind of says it all for me. This is why it is different Sasha.

patrice said...

This is suppose to be "New Episode-Yard Sale" comment section, yet it is started with a comment regarding the haters and continues to talk about the other blog. I thought this was a blog about the Gosselins not another blog. You all here attack the GWOP more than you talk about the Gosselins. How do you even know that they hate? Maybe you are making more out of it than what it really is.

Sascha is right, you all are doing exactly what you are accusing GWOP of doing.

I probably won't see this on your blog, but you have to know that other people see what your doing.

Guinevere said...

This is suppose to be "New Episode-Yard Sale" comment section, yet it is started with a comment regarding the haters and continues to talk about the other blog. I thought this was a blog about the Gosselins not another blog. You all here attack the GWOP more than you talk about the Gosselins. How do you even know that they hate? Maybe you are making more out of it than what it really is.

Sascha is right, you all are doing exactly what you are accusing GWOP of doing.

I probably won't see this on your blog, but you have to know that other people see what your doing.


GWoP
gwOp
GWOP
GWOP!!!!

GWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoP
GWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoP
GWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoP
GWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoP
GWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoPGWoP

All work and no play make GWoP a dull blog
All work and no play make GWoP a dull blog
All work and no play make GWoP a dull blog
All work and no play make GWoP a dull blog
All work and no play make GWoP a dull blog

Patrice, I didn't want to disappoint you by not posting your extremely helpful and erudite post, but I think after this we've had enough. Thanks to your post and the rash of "dance, monkey, dance!" posts we've been getting today, I think if Nina agrees we may take a break from posting such comments for the foreseeable future.

The purpose of this blog has been explained until we're all blue in the face, and yet some people either refuse to understand some fairly basic ideas, or just really are not very bright. Either way, it's gotten boring.

Nina Bell said...

LOL I agree!

Nina Bell said...

I am sorry but I have to post this.

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "New Episode - Yard Sale":

Why is your date wrong? It's Monday November 24, 1008. The person in charge of changing the date doesn't do a good job.


Anon
The time on the post is automatically done by blogger. It is the time that the post was posted. Which was yesterday. Did you happen to see the year that you typed in?

Thanks for the laugh!

Anonymous said...

Saint I guess maybe its a matter of what is perceived by the viewer. New people to the show or those that have not seen things about the Gosselins in the past would assume this. Wow, these people had a yard sale of things they bought and gave the money to a wonderful charity.
People that have seen some things on the internet and possibly hometown people, many of which have a negative reaction toward them might say. Wow, they used every form of media to attract attention, owe much of what they had to donations. Now they give back what they got for free. You stated you are a recent viewer to the show so maybe you see things one way. People who have watched longer may see things differently.

Anonymous said...

I frequent GWoP and post there as anon. I only read here. This is my first time posting here. I think people here should be able to blog about whatever they want to. We certainly do over at GWoP. The threads there go off topic all the time.

I think that Patrice and Sasha should stay home if they don't like what you do here. Or quit complaining.

Anonymous said...

Anyway.... We have this great kid's consignment shop called Kid to Kid. I make trips at least quarterly to "trade in" my baby's clothes for bigger sizes. Initially, I recieved his clothes as gifts and then consigned them to buy new clothes. So I consider his gifts to be "gifts that keep on giving". I view the yard sale in kind of the same light -- gifts that keep on giving realizing that the family will re-invest whatever they make back into their kids.

Now, I'm going to go back to the NWoP Blog to talk about how annoying I find Kate... it all started when I was on bedrest and watched the whole season back to back on "On Demand"...

Anonymous said...

Sascha -

Seriously, you can't see the difference between trashing a real living person and criticizing a person who posts under an anonymous screen name?

================

Maybe what we are witnessing when people come here and defend anonymous/faceless screen names is a glimmer of guilt.

In a way, that gives me hope. Granted the guilt is being directed outward but it's existence means that humanity is not completely gone from the internet.

===================

I've also been thinking about what I posted earlier today.

There really is a Cult of Gosselin Victimhood. People whose identity is wrapped up in how they've been betrayed or maligned in a real or imagined way by the Gosselins.

Ann said...

NC Resident,
I watched (on bedrest also) over a holiday marathon in May, then not again until after Labor Day. I have missed a lot of the controversy in real time. I sometimes look through the archives at this and other blogs to get the backstory. For example, I have recently been learning about the "secret message board!" So maybe what you suggest, that it would affect my perception, is probably part of our disgreement.

I started at GWoP, but the posts there were pretty mean, to me. I saw the link to Julie's blog, which was mostly just the Aunt Jodi story at that time, and a bit confusing at that. Then Penn Mommy popped up. My WHOLE perception of the Gosselins was COMPLETELY SKEWED. I have been trying to "undo" the damage she's left of the Gosselins in my mind. I realized that there were a lot of unsubstantiated stories circulating about them, and, why did I believe them? Because Kate was too loud and snarky on TV?

I just want evidence now. I just don't know how we can criticize the Gosselins for not giving back when no one knows if they have or not. I'm sorry, NC Resident, but I haven't found any evidence that the actual residents of their town have a negative perception of them. And I sure am not accepting the evidence from Internet blogs and chat sites where people claim that they are from "Etown," and they don't like them. I am sure that PM is one, two, or three of those more vocal "residents," anyway.

To me, the best evidence that they might be actually be lousy people is that they seem to have little contact with extended family, and Aunt Jodi and Kevin, who looked really nice on TV are no longer part of their lives. THAT reflects poorly on them IMO, but it has NOTHING to do with their giving to charity.

peanutbutterjellytime said...

I am looking forward to the yard sale tonight. I will be resting on my couch with my children and a hot cup of coffee. I hope that it's a good show!

Anya@IW said...

Nina Bell said...The time on the post is automatically done by blogger. It is the time that the post was posted. Which was yesterday. Did you happen to see the year that you typed in? Thanks for the laugh!

I needed that too!

Somehow my mind went to another person who found the internet confusing, Alaska's soon-to-be ex-Senator Ted Stevens. Here is a partial account of his remarks regarding the internet:

"Ten movies streaming across that, that Internet, and what happens to your own personal Internet? I just the other day got... an Internet was sent by my staff at 10 o'clock in the morning on Friday. I got it yesterday [Tuesday]. Why? Why? Because it got tangled up with all these things going on the Internet commercially.
[...] They want to deliver vast amounts of information over the Internet. And again, the Internet is not something that you just dump something on. It's not a big truck. It's a series of tubes. And if you don't understand, those tubes can be filled and if they are filled, when you put your message in, it gets in line and it's going to be delayed by anyone that puts into that tube enormous amounts of material, enormous amounts of material."


Sorry, I know it's completely off-topic, (at least I am not talking about GWoP!) but this makes me laugh every time.

Anya@IW said...

peanutbutterjellytime said...
I am looking forward to the yard sale tonight. I will be resting on my couch with my children and a hot cup of coffee. I hope that it's a good show!


Me too! Might have something stronger than coffee -- we will see. :-)

It will be nice to see them back at home.

Anonymous said...

Old Reading Eagle papers were what I first saw. Many people claimed to know Jon or Kate, some both one even spoke of his brother Tom. I liked the show at that time and to be honest I was shocked at the comments being made. I believe most of them to be true now because later in the book Multiple Blessing Kate confims alot of what was being said.
I will agree they have a hard road ahead to obtain some peoples approval. Some of it is because people think the worst, some J&K are to blame for. But fair or not the theme I find is that then like now, Jon says people are out to make them look bad. Heres an article for you to look at, check out the last line. Great pics of the kids.
http://www.becomehealthynow.com/ebookprint.php?id=1156

Ann said...

Thanks, NC Resident!
I'll go look now...

Ann said...

Yes, NC Resident...It's a good article with cute pictures. is there something negative in the article there?

Ann said...

The last line is nice?

Anonymous said...

OK, my original point was not fully understood by some. First let me say - no, I'm not a regular at GWOP... I already told you, I read both blogs. I've posted there, maybe three times, and here ... I think four. I have twins, so my name is usually about being a twin Mom - I don't think it's ever exactly the same name, Nina Bell, because I simply forget what I used last since I don't post much - so that's why you don't see me. I am not a hater --- I already said that. I am not a troll ... at least I think I'm not, I actually don't know what that means, but it doesn't sound good, so no - I'm not a troll.

My only point was this. I came on and saw a new post about the yard sale. I was interested in seeing who was maybe there, what they bought, what it was like, etc etc etc. The Gosselins have nice stuff - I was curious. There were 6 comments so far. ALL SIX of them were not about the yard sale, but about how the "haters" would respond, and "I can see it now ..." and "they'll say this, and they'll say that" and so on and so on.

I was aggravated, so ... I said so. It was annoying to me to see that the only discussion about it, thus far, was about how the supposed "others" would interpret it. ALL SIX ENTREES ... so yes, I thought I would say something. Not against your post, Nina Bell ... but a comments that came after it, and how it felt to me to see everyone, thus far, being so one-sided, and yes ... that did seem to me, not to be very fair and balanced. I'm not under-cover here ... no need to fret - I'm just a reader who had something to say, and so I said it. I still love the site, I'm still coming ... I just got discouraged and wanted to say my peace. Done.

Ann said...

LOL, Anya! Sharing it with my son right now...

Nina Bell said...

I posted momoftwoboys post so she could share her thoughts but I am truly done with this discussion.

Lizzy said...

CARLA!!!

She wasn't missing after all ;) (as I mentioned in past posts....)

That's all for now!

Anonymous said...

Nice to see Carla again. She wasn't kicked to the curb after all.

themrs said...

peanutbutter and jelly- thanks for that hilarious mental picture of potty chair sized toilet covers. i actually laughed out loud!

saint- what's the secret message board controversy?

Lizzy said...

Not sure what to think of this episode... they did NOT do Kate any favors in the way they showed her! I was not a fan of the constant bickering about being irritated, but I can understand having to be up 2 hours earlier than usual then its frustrating, but that just wasn't the best episode for her...

I really appreciate what they did, and how they chose to raise money for Pediatric Aids though. I don't think it was for publicity though-- if it had been then the tups would have been front and center the whole time and paraded around for every person who showed up. I also like that she didn't have set prices, so people could give as they saw fit.

So... the concept was good, and I think they did the right thing, but I was not liking Kate this episode at all...

Ann said...

saint- what's the secret message board controversy?
I don't know yet! I haven't found the "original thread." I kept getting side-tracked by my youngest's Seneca Lonhouse project/report all weekend. It's finally finished, and it looks really cute! A+

Ugh! Kate is just obnoxious in this episode! Bleh! I know it's a days' worth of complaining compressed into 22 minutes, but...
Do they edit out her thanking Jon and Carla? Is she really this bossy, complaining, snarky, and controlling?

Mady negotiated for a Xmas ornament that "Poppy" gave her...cute. That girl is so much like Kate to me. You always know what she's thinking!

Samantha@IW said...

Yard sales are a lot of work! Did anyone notice how exceptionally cute Jon was? His hair is really coming in and he must be sticking to that diet! They both look awesome and it yay Carla! It was nice to see her!

Ann said...

They sold the slide from when the twins were little. Was it donated?They gave everything they couldn't sell to Good Will or Salvation Army. Very good idea...

Anonymous said...

I'm glad that Mady got back the ornament that her Poppy gave her. I realize that it's messy (I think the problem was glitter).

Kate mentioned that she has a yard sale every year. But I didn't hear where the proceeds of the previous yard sales have gone. That's why my personal opinion is that this entire episode was damage control by Figure 8.

Anonymous said...

My opinion is different CeeCee. They have yard sales every year and until now we did not know it. The twins have been previously in swimming lessons and until it was mentioned on the Outer Bnxs episode we didn't know it.

To me, this underscores that the viewers do not know everything that happens in the life of this family and that while there is a chance that they didn't donate the proceeds from previous sales, there is an equal chance that they did.

We, the viewers, just don't know.

Nina Bell said...

To Michelle and anyone else.

We have been accused on not moderating and keeping our threads on topic. I am attempting to do that tonight. People are making it very difficult for me. I had stated that we were done discussing the other topic on this thread that was off topic.

So we are attempting to stay on topic here.

Thank you,

Anonymous said...

I'd like to wish everyone who blogs on this site and the blog managers a Happy Thanksgiving!

scarfoot79 said...

Jon and Kate must be gearing up for a big move. Not only were they cleaning out lots of things, but Jon said something about not wanting to move the yellow slider board.

I felt sorry for Jon, as he clearly was remembering many things about his father. I felt sorry [insert sarcastic tone] for Kate, because she clearly was NOT FEELING LIKE doing a garage sale!

Kate definitely got veneers!

Anonymous said...

Erin said: "I did read somewhere that they sold the potties at this sale. That is just gross..regardless of who is selling or who is getting the money... Why sell used potties or buy them? Goodwill won't even take those. Yuck."

I don't think this is a big deal. Nothing a bucket of bleach and water can't sanitize. Have you ever used a hotel restroom? Or touched the door knob on a hotel bathroom? That's probably far less sanitary.

Nina Bell said...

Michelle

Thanks for the holiday wishes! Also I regret that I had to reject Michelle's comments to keep the thread on topic but she would like everyone to know that she posts on the other blog and she is not a "hater." She stated that people can post on GWoP and not hate Jon and Kate. I have seen Michelle's comments on other blogs and she is always respectful.

Darlene Williams said...

Have you ever used a hotel restroom? Or touched the door knob on a hotel bathroom? That's probably far less sanitary.
--------------------------------
I use to work as a Room Attendant for a large hotel chain and hotel bathrooms are cleaned on a regular(daily) basis even when the guests are staying in them unless they don't want room service. Worry about the comforters.. sorry off topic. I haven't watched this episode yet, it's not on for another half hour.

Anonymous said...

I hate to be the one to tell you all that there is no registered charity called the "Pediatric Cancer Fund"..it seems to me if the money really was going to a charity, they'd give its proper name. There are MANY pediatric cancer funds...give a name, and I WILL believe. Or, sit in your plastic chair and complain about signage (you could have made yourself) promotions (you might have called your (seemingly disinterested) media contacts beforehand...

Anonymous said...

mist- they're website gives the address for the charity..
http://www.pcfweb.org/
it's called the pediatric cancer foundation.
jaded much?

Anonymous said...

Check it out . . .

http://www.pediatriccancerfoundation.org/sunshine.htm

The Travel Mom said...

Mist, here IS an actual fund called The Pediatric Cancer Foundation www.pcfweb.org. pediatric cancer funds?? since I'm giving you a name, will you believe now? Or, sit in YOUR plastic chair and complain about Kate's signage (she thought someone else was making) and promotions (she didn't called her interested media contacts beforehand since she thought it was taken care of.) Bitter much?

Anonymous said...

I hate to be the one to tell you all that there is no registered charity called the "Pediatric Cancer Fund"..it seems to me if the money really was going to a charity, they'd give its proper name.

Ok...first off, they gave the full name of what charity they actually made the check out to. Why on earth would they lie on national television about a charity that doesnt exist? Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation is probably what they donated to. Just because they didnt word it exactly right on a sign doesnt mean it went straight into their pockets. Some people are really reaching...

I cant imagine what bad anyone could see in holding a yard sale for charity, but people constantly prove me wrong in their willingness to judge others actions. I'm sure people in your every day life dont ask you for proof of how much you give to charity, the exact name of the organization...etc? Why do we expect this of television personalities that we know basically nothing about besides 30 edited minutes of a reality show?

Any money going into a charity can be used...they wont turn down any amount. You, nor I have no reason to judge anyone else on how much they give or why. Or to whom. It just makes no sense.

I found this episode kind of boring and Kate was in quite the Negative Nancyish mood for this yard sale. I also cant imagine buying someones used potty :). I didnt see the part where they were selling them, but it has caused quite the uproar at the "other site".

Jenn said...

Carla is back??? I can't wait to see this episode. I took a 2nd job for the christmas season so I haven't been around much and have missed some episodes. :)

Darlene Williams said...

Not very impressed with this episode. I was fine until the cheesy sign about pictures. It's the same young girl from the photo which was posted on here. I thought Kate was kind to have a photo taken with a fan but only with strings attached. Happy Carla was on. Now we all know not everyone in the Gosselin world is kicked to the curb.

MoreCowbell said...

HILARIOUS. Haters are so bound and determine to find something to bitch about that there is no straw left ungrasped. This takes the cake:

I hate to be the one to tell you all that there is no registered charity called the "Pediatric Cancer Fund"..it seems to me if the money really was going to a charity, they'd give its proper name.

And we hate to be the one to burst your negativity bubble, but if you had been paying attention, yes, they did specify which charity they were using in the beginning of the episode. The Sunshine Fund and you can find the address on their website. but go ahead, keep justifying your hate.

What I find absolutely hysterical is that instead of commenting about how grumpy Kate was (which truthfully, I was not surprised at. Obsessively organized people do not handle upheaval well and nothing is quite as irritating as seeing all your stuff out of place, plus Kate is not a morning person), they're focusing on the fact that they're selling donated items instead of giving them away. Selling them for CHARITY. Who gives a crap HOW they're donated? They gave the money to a great cause. Bottom line is that someone else benefited from the items in the end, whether they gave the items away, or sold them and gave the money away. Just the fact that the WAY they did it isn't good enough for the pea hens of GWoP is HILARIOUSLY twisted and hypocritical.

Yes, and the "missing in action," Carla reappears. WOW. Whodathunkit? According to GWoP, wasn't she "banished" like Jodi, or just left on her own because she can't stand Kate? She still exists! Or maybe she never actually left, but doesn't have the "luxury" of a big mouthed relative blogging and blowing things out of proportion to whack jobs on the the World Wide Web!

"Can't win and never will," is the moral of all things GWoP.

Anya@IW said...

Ok, I will say it right off the bat - Kate was cranky! I am going to agree with MoreCowbell. Kate's behavior is not so surprising in light of all that was going on and how we know she handles disorder (or doesn't handle). I have to agree with Kate on the sign mispelling, however. The incompetence would anger me too. Overall, Kate reminded me of me on those days I am in a bad mood and am not inclined to hide it!

Another thought - I know the conventional wisdom of a certain group is that Jon is henpecked and is Kate's workhorse, etc. I am not going to bother to argue that point once again, instead, I would just like to say something POSITIVE. I was really impressed with Jon tonight. He worked really hard, did a lot of leg work ferrying the kids back and forth, and kept a seemingly good attitude throughout. And yes, Samantha, I thought he was looking handsome too!

Lastly, I felt Jon's pain in giving away items given to him by his dad. I think a lot of us have been in that situation and it's a tough one. Somehow it never feels quite right voluntarily surrendering items that have been given to us by someone we love who is no longer with us....

Weed said...

Wow - didn't get to post yesterday so I don't know if anyone else notice how "HOT" Jon looked on last night's episode. Oh my Goodness - he's definitely lost alot of weight, hair's coming in - looked overall fit/tan and was actually sitting up pretty tall in that couch this time. Wow is all I can say!!! Not that thrilled with the episode but it's just Kate's attitude that brings me down, she just really needs to losen up, just a tad. Just seemed not with it on the couch (the exact opposite of Jon this week) maybe she's got alot on her mind with the Holiday's coming up and wasn't really up to the couch interview. One more time - Wow Jon looked awesome. (good thing my husband wasn't watching with me!!)

Anonymous said...

Mist - You also mentioned that it was tacky for Kate not to have communicated with her media contacts until the day of the event.

With special events planning, this is generally standard operating procedure. You send out preliminary info to the media a few weeks before, then a few days before, and then the day of the event. The media generally works with what is right in from of them so contacting them the day of the event is a way to put yourself on their radar screen.

I also want to say that I think that Carla is awesome. She is such a hard worker. I loved to watch her move around so fast and then stop on a dime to count the money. So efficient.

Theresa said...

Amen MoreCowbell!! You took the words out of my mouth.

Samantha@IW said...

WEED-

I thought Jon looked awesome too!

Weed said...

Okay - I'll post on the actual episode now since I got my "wow" factor out about Jon. The G's are in a tough situation regarding what they do or don't do - a no win situation but alot of it is due to their past behavior. I'm all for yard sales, donations to a worthy cause but I'm with the poster who felt it was a tacky way to show it, I don't feel they needed to film it for their show. I also got an icky feeling when I saw that Kate had a sign up (can't remember exactly what it said) about taking a picture with her and donating the money for PCR. Just IMO - tacky. But like I said - they're in a no win situation and I can image it's hard for them to figure out which way to go. I just got an icky feeling that it was being taped for their show, in which they make a great deal of money for and that feeling was even more when I saw that they were taking pictures for donations and I really don't know why that bugged me so much. Oh well - I'm just glad that PCR was the receiver of the yard-sale proceeds!! Oh - I would have hated to have been on the receiving end of that misspelled poster call!! Ouch - what a goof.

Nina Bell said...

I really do not want to start this whole thing all over again. But comments like this one from "Mist"


I hate to be the one to tell you all that there is no registered charity called the "Pediatric Cancer Fund"..it seems to me if the money really was going to a charity, they'd give its proper name. There are MANY pediatric cancer funds...give a name, and I WILL believe. Or, sit in your plastic chair and complain about signage (you could have made yourself) promotions (you might have called your (seemingly disinterested) media contacts beforehand...


might be the reason people are posting comments that are upsetting other members of other blogs.

Look at the tone on how this message starts out. Look at the message itself. Untruths but posted as facts.

Weed said...

Oh - that reminds me. I was kinda shocked that Kate waited until the day of the event to call a radio station to promote the yard-sale. And that was only because they weren't getting the crowd she expected. She must know someone at the station very well to call up and say yes this is "Kate" - can't remember the exact conversation. I just thought it could have been handled alittle better with advertisement and knowing beforehand that the signs you had printed were in fact misspelled. IMO - I just felt it wasn't really thought out very well (signs, advertisement, tables, table clothes, etc)and that amazes me considering Kate's need for such organization.

MommyZinger said...

I liked this episode.

As much as I enjoy watching the children, I didn't mind that they were not in it so much.

I loved Cara and Mady doing the counting song on the couch. At first, I didn't recognize them because they had their hair done. Happy Cara! Imagine that.

I just couldn't get over how much stuff they had. I wondered where they kept it all. It looked like they didn't have a really great turnout and they were left with many unsold items which is too bad. I was happy when they donated those to Goodwill.

Of course, it was good to see Carla.

I agree with previous posters, Jon seems to be looking better these days. Working-from-home dadhood suits him, I think.

I just wanted to let the mods know that you guys are doing an excellent job. I appreciate it and enjoy coming here.

Unknown said...

Not sure what to think of this episode... they did NOT do Kate any favors in the way they showed her! I was not a fan of the constant bickering about being irritated, but I can understand having to be up 2 hours earlier than usual then its frustrating, but that just wasn't the best episode for her...


-----

I agree. And last night's epi is a perfect example of who I think Kate really is. Easily annoyed, irrated if something doesn't go quite her way. She sounds like a
b***H! And Jon seemed like he was just the errand boy, and didn't even do that right.

Watching a yard sale on TV is as boring as having a yard sale...this epi was the most boring 22 mins I have ever seen.

I did get a bit nostalgic when I say Colin's Lil Tike Car being loaded up!

Didn't understand how Kate could sell a Christmas ornament from the kid's grandpa, regardless if it left "glittery things" on the floor.

Stuff like that just makes me want to send her to a class about manners and good taste.

The sign that said "Picture's with the family for a donation"-also tacky.

Just saw no point in filming this yawn fest.

Ann said...

Colin's little car also made me nostalgic. My son announced that "he always wanted one when he was little but I wouldn't buy him one." There is a perfectly good VW Jetta sitting on my driveway and he has the keys, because I saved my money for the real car. So he reconsidered his "poor me" remark.

I think Kate is a naturally complaining, irritable, bossy thing in real life. I just think her faults are far more distilled by being spread out over a whole day, not compressed into 22 minutes. I really have to remember that TLC wants a certain "Kate" shown for ratings.
The compliant, lackadaisical Kate of the vow renewal seemed bored and boring. I think TLC will prompt her for more snark, and leave her tender moments on the cutting room floor, unless the PR people are there overseeing it.

Anya@IW said...

Fiona said..."And last night's epi is a perfect example of who I think Kate really is. Easily annoyed, irrated if something doesn't go quite her way. She sounds like a b***H!"

Saint partially made my point on this issue, but I'll wade in to say I think it partly has to do with how you choose to view her.

I think it's a little harsh to state that is who "Kate really is ." Yes, she is easily frazzled and seems to deal with stress by complaining and being demanding. These are not her finest qualities to be sure, but I don't think they are the sum of who she is.

I don't know why I feel compelled to defend Kate. I guess I just know that I have elements of Kate that come out of me in times of stress too. Over the years, I have gotten a bit better at managing my stress and not making others around me miserable, but it's undeniably a work in progress on my part and I kind of assume it's the same for Kate.

MonicaW42 said...

I give Kate a pass on being grumpy. I am not a morning person either and can understand that.

Jon does look alot thinner than previous episodes (like Hawaii) and buffer. Good for him.

As far as sentimental things go, I have one large hope chest and whatever fits in it is kept and what doesn't, goes. If I kept every single sentimental item I would need 10,000sq house. They probably have kept things. Kudos to Kate for giving the ornaments back to the girls when they asked.

I'm surprised this episode has set off a firestorm of controversy.

Guinevere said...

Yeah, I was really glad that Kate gave Mady back the ornament when asked; otherwise we'd be knee-deep in "ornamentgate".

I thought it was kind of funny that Kate's main objection to the ornament was the glitter it shed.

I understand both POVs about keeping things with sentimental value v. not wanting clutter. I am not a packrat, at all - I like things clean and neat. But it can be hard to throw things away when you associate them with a lost loved one. For me it's not even so much that I want to keep something; it's that I feel guilty getting rid of it. Right now I'd like to replace my coffee table, which was my mom's, because it's falling apart. But I remember that she refurbished the coffee table and was proud of it and I feel bad about just getting rid of it and buying something from Pier One.

peanutbutterjellytime said...

Kate was a bit grumpy. Maybe it was "that time of the month" for her. I didn't see her drinking any coffee. I know I can be grumpy in the morning if I haven't had my coffee!

I was happy to see Kate let Mady keep the Christmas ornament that was from "Poppy." I know how hard it is to get rid of something that someone that has passed away has given you. I too, have a Christmas ornament that my grandmother gave me many years ago. She has passed away. It is a star with glitter on it. Somehow it got chipped in storage, but I don't have the heart to throw it away. I still put it on the tree and think of her when I look at it.

Nancy said...

If I may add to the "ornament" discussion: was it actually a CHRISTMAS ornament meant to hang on a tree? If so, then were there other Christmas ornaments for sale that we didn't see? I ask because my first thought about the selling of the ornament was "holy cow; Kate went through the CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS to find things to sell? Wow! How thorough!" (I bet she didn't try to sell the giant pinecones stolen from California, though.)
Kate said she has a yard sale every year. She had a U-Haul full of stuff to sell this time! That is a LOT OF STUFF! Looked like the tents the kids got last Christmas never even made it out of the boxes.

Ann said...

peanutbutterjellytime said...
Kate was a bit grumpy. Maybe it was "that time of the month" for her. I didn't see her drinking any coffee.


I thought that too! Get that woman some wine, chocolate, Ibuprofen, or a cup of coffee!

Unknown said...

Anya said...
Fiona said..."And last night's epi is a perfect example of who I think Kate really is. Easily annoyed, irrated if something doesn't go quite her way. She sounds like a b***H!"

Saint partially made my point on this issue, but I'll wade in to say I think it partly has to do with how you choose to view her.

I think it's a little harsh to state that is who "Kate really is ." Yes, she is easily frazzled and seems to deal with stress by complaining and being demanding. These are not her finest qualities to be sure, but I don't think they are the sum of who she is.


-----

And with ever fiber of my being, I think that IS the sum of who she is.

Nancy said...

Fiona said: "And with ever fiber of my being, I think that IS the sum of who she is."

I agree with Fiona.

Here's the main thing I disliked about this Yard Sale show: too much Hateful Kate and not enough of the kids. I don't watch because of Kate... I don't much like her, but I do love seeing the kids. Mady's teeth have finally grown in and she looks so cute. Cara appeared to be enjoying their lemonade stand. I guess the little kids do need a break from the cameras, but I would have liked to have seen a little more of them on this show.

Guinevere said...

If I may add to the "ornament" discussion: was it actually a CHRISTMAS ornament meant to hang on a tree? If so, then were there other Christmas ornaments for sale that we didn't see? I ask because my first thought about the selling of the ornament was "holy cow; Kate went through the CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS to find things to sell? Wow! How thorough!"

Is it weird to sell Christmas tree ornaments? I don't frequent garage sales, so I wouldn't know. But I do know that over time you can accumulate far more ornaments than you can fit on a tree, so culling some out doesn't seem overly thorough to me at all.

I agree with Fiona.

So if Kate's ever nice, happy, positive - none of that matters because her bad moments are the sum of who she is? Would you want others to judge you that way?

MrsRef said...

I actually don't think a yard sale in a church parking lot is the best place to bring the tups so it was nice for them to be able to play on the playground. I don't think it would have been safe for them to be running around the parking lot while people were coming and going. This episode was not as bad as I thought it was going to be - I did like the fact that Kate let people set their own price for things and I was glad that she gave Mady her ornament back. Oh my, I actually said something positive...the apocolypse must be near!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

I have to admit, I didn't like this website at first. I thought that everyone loved Kate. But, I have noticed here and there that most of you are watching for the kids, not for Kate.

Since Thanksgiving is two days away, I hope Kate is thankful for all that she has, when so many do not. Instead of complaining about dirty tables and no customers, let's think instead of what the men and women in the armed forces are doing at this very moment. I'm sure they would much rather be dealing with dirty tables than with roadside bombs and 118 degree heat.

That being said, you moderaters have an eloquent and non-vengeful way of getting your point across. It is appreciated from this neck of the woods.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone!! :)

Anonymous said...

I don't understand that phenomenon...that only the bad parts we see of her mean she is a horrible person all of the time. I sure wouldn't want people to judge me that way- I can be pretty nasty when I want to be, but that doesn't mean I'm a bad person overall.

Nancy said...

" Yes, she is easily frazzled and seems to deal with stress by complaining and being demanding. "

To me, that DOES sum up Kate. Of course she CAN be nice, but more often she is complaining and demanding. I don't think anyone said she could not ever be nice. It's just that most of the time she is complaining about Jon, moaning about being "exhausted", out-of-sorts because of something someone else did..... yep, to me, that says K-A-T-E.
I do hope she can enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving with her family. I hope we ALL do!

Unknown said...

So if Kate's ever nice, happy, positive - none of that matters because her bad moments are the sum of who she is? Would you want others to judge you that way?

November 25, 2008 1:24 PM

----

Guin,

I am sure people DO indeed judge me that way. I think all of us make judgments about people's behavior based on what they observe.

Let me put it a different way...I think Kate is inherently a cold, controling, non-fuzzy person. Some people are inherently nice, friendly and easy-going, with a lapse everynow and again of bitchy behavior. With Kate, I think it is the opposite....we see here lapses of niceness.

This is my perception of her and I realize not everyone feels the same.

Anonymous said...

Let me put it a different way...I think Kate is inherently a cold, controling, non-fuzzy person. Some people are inherently nice, friendly and easy-going, with a lapse everynow and again of bitchy behavior. With Kate, I think it is the opposite....we see here lapses of niceness.

I also think this is affected because all we see of her is edited parts of her day. TLC or whoever edits decides who they want to show. I know if someone was taping my whole day and then cutting it into 22 mins, I probably wouldnt look so hot either.

Also, I see Kate as someone who wants to be in control at all times. She sees something spinning out of her control...which is easy to happen when you have 6 4 year olds...she becomes nervous and irratated. Which in turn, to the viewers, makes her look snappy and bitchy! Its not hard to make a villian in a reality show. Just ask any of the Real Worlders out there that Ive seen so many times saying their personality was inaccurately portrayed.

On another note: I seen a few other people who were commenting on how good Jon looked in the episode, and I realized I forgot to mention that! I need to get on his plan :).

merryway said...

In light of the problems, I thought Kate held herself together well. I think she's trying to improve herself, if nothing else, I would think she would do it for the success of the show and her children's security. She also has more reason these days to be relaxed given their success. While their life seems busy, she should haven't the great stress about financial security anymore.

I think because of her fame, she's had a lot stuff pushed in her face about herself. The public has held up a real big mirror for her to see herself in. She's prob been forced to think about stuff that she might not have given thought to for another twenty years or so, if ever.
I've mentioned before I have a couple of Kate's in my family and I always wonder at their sense of entitlement. I'm not talking about greed, but about how things should be done their way and who should do what. Questioning or any delay of the direction given will upset the diva foreman and lead to being demeaned or snarled at while being redirected. A mention of how much the diva foreman has done and must do is usually thrown in there for good measure. A spaz moment could happen at any time.
In this episode, every instance I expected Kate to freak out, the opposite happened. She just complained about the morning, the tables being late, the signs, the dirty tables. She was a restrained diva foreman when she was holding up the sign that she wanted to go to the other yard sale. I expected her to quick with the customer while she was on the phone and she wasn't it. I'm sure she was nice to everyone. It was a long day and she was on her feet the whole time. Compared to episodes where Kate has freaked out over nothing, I thought she did well for all the problems. The Kates I know would bitch about it all night to their husbands, so I have to wonder if Jon heard lots of complaining that night.

The yard sale in itself seemed like a charity as they let stuff go for little. Not the best way to raise a lot of money, but I like the theory.

As for letting some stuff with memories go, that is always difficult but necessary. Glitter is the worst. It is so hard to get up and it always seems to get around the eyes.

Many baby resell shops sell potties and baths. Bleach and hot water, and it's not a bad idea to sun them for a few hours. REUSE!!!

Happy Thanksgiving All!

merryway said...

I forgot to mention I have seen some of the Kates in my family mellow over time. The trait was so strong, I'm surprised that they have done so well.

Anonymous said...

I think that Kate and Jon are wonderful parents. First of all their kids are obviously happy. Second, countless times on the show I have seen the kids say please and thank you. Of course they are loved! If my husband and I got the chance to quit our jobs to stay home with our kids, I would do it in a heartbeat and I'm sure my husband would too. They may get freebies, but who wouldn't turn down a trip to Hawaii? IF YOU DON'T LIKE THE SHOW DON'T WATCH IT!!!

I just don't understand why people have to say terrible things about a women who has a harder job than most of you people with one or two kids!! She has to keep 8 kids who are in 2 totally different age groups entertained and happy. I know I have trouble getting my 2 kids to stay happy for over 30 minutes.

They are giving back to the community in some way, thats probably more than some of you have been able to do. Think of how many people are grateful for the money they donated! And you bloggers have to make the Gosselins seem like terrible people. Reality check..They're not! All you people are is jealous. Once again, IF YOU HATE THE SHOW DON'T WATCH IT (and don't blog things that you have made up about them either).

Nancy said...

To MS: I am not one of "you bloggers" or "you people", as I don't think the Gosselins are "terrible people" nor am I "jealous". To "merryway": I agree with what you said about having "a couple of Kates" in your family; we spent Thanksgiving at the home of one of our "Kates" and it was... interesting. I was the recipient of some disrespect, all because I asked for a serving spoon which had been omitted from one of the dishes. Evidently the Kate-like hostess took it as criticism rather than a simple request for a spoon. She went off on a tirade for perhaps 3 minutes, then it was over. She is not always like that and can be a very giving and kind person. Just not at that moment. Kate impresses me as being the same way.

Anonymous said...

You people (and yes I was talking to you Nancy, you are a person aren't you?, not to be rude! ) are just nasty haters. Why do you have to spend your time obsessing over how much you hate the Gosselins when you people always say you have no time do anything else. Do you have 8 kids? You couldn't possibly know what Kate Gosselin goes through every single day. I just happened to click on this cite, and I am very astonished to see how rude and inconsiderate you people are. I am a pre school teacher and have about 12 students in my class with 2 teachers and sometimes a third. It is very overwhelming, and I can barely take care of these kids and I'm not even their mothers! As matter of fact, I have met Kate at a speaking engagement at my church, and she is not at all what you people say she is! Please stop all the nonsense blogging when you have never met, nor are entitled to meet such a wonderful lady! PLEASE STOP CRITICIZING WHEN YOU DON'T KNOW SQUAT!!! If you don't like them stop watching the dang show!

Nancy said...

Holy cow, Bertha! You start off your post by saying I am part of "you people" who are "nasty haters". Where in my post did I say I hate anyone? Most of the posters on this site are fans, not haters. In fact, yours is one of the meanest posts I've seen in a long time.
It's nice to hear that someone has had a good experience with meeting Kate.

Nina Bell said...

Nancy

I wondered also if Bertha had taken the time to look around and see that there are a lot of fans that come here.

Darlene Williams said...

Geez,that's a bold statement to call everyone on here a Gosselin Hater! I just happened to check my email after I finished making my daughter feel better because she is sick and now asleep and read this email Post from Bertha. Maybe she couldn't post at GWOP so the frustration dragged over here. I don't know but wow, after you read here after awhile you definitely know most, not all are not Gosselin Haters.

happymama said...

Bertha121,
Have you had alot of coffee today? You need to chill a little.

You say "nor are you entitled to meet such a wonderful lady." What the heck is that suppose to mean? We can go to any speaking engagement to meet Kate if we want to. We don't have to be "entitled."

I have a feeling that your blood pressure was sky high when you posted your comment. That's not good for your health.

I agree with Nancy. She said that yours is one of the meanest posts I've seen here in a long time too.

We all have opinions, but you shouldn't let anything in life bother you that much. It's not worth it.

Nicole said...

I have to say that Bertha seems a bit angry and I'm not sure why. My sister has nine children and I see what she goes through. Bertha is forgetting that Kate has Jon to help her. In fact, Jon does alot as far as taking care of the children goes. Just think about what Jon does. We all here watch the show and we see what Jon does on a daily basis.

So Bertha, you say you have about 12 students with 2 teachers sometime 3, and it's very overwhelmimg? That's a light load compared to what I have seen, and I visit classrooms all the time to talk to pre-schooler's. Maybe you should find another job, because you sound very stressed out with the job you have.

peanutbutterjellytime said...

Holy Moly Bertha,
I have to tell you that I am also a pre-school teacher and have 15 students and 2 helper's. We manage very well. I don't know how long you have been a teacher, but I have been teaching for 10 years. If you are new at teaching, you just might need more experience. You sound a little high-strung, so perhaps you should think about a different career, if you are not happy.

Kate has Jon to help her, and Jon is a BIG help. Kate is lucky to have such a good helper. Jon does most of the hands-on care if not all of it. So, if anyone should be exhausted, it's Jon.

You should not have been so rude to Nancy, (and you were) but she was just making a comment.

Nina Bell said...

WOW

The trolls are out in full force today. Had to start rejecting those comments. Must be a slow day in the Gosselin blogging world. No one coming out to play with you on the other sites?Thanks for the entertainment!

merryway said...

Nancy, you WON! You guessed the secret word to make your hostess spaz! SPOON!

You never know what secret spaz word might be. :)

merryway said...

Nancy, I don't know what the secret word was that made MS go off.

Anonymous said...

I wasn't sure how I felt about this episode. After thinking about it, I would have to agree that Kate had most of her negative mojo going on that morning. Course, I am not a morning person at all and I can relate, LOL! But if I was being filmed I might make the effort to be a little more positive. . All in all, it was a nice thing to do and selling things you don't use is the American way. We sometimes had things for our kids that they were less than enamored with and I would sell them at the Mothers of Twins tag sales. The looked new because they just about were. Can never tell what kids will play with or what they will dislike. I didn't see a problem with this episode really. It's something they did and I'm sure it helped clear out the amount of things to move. I might have kept my dad's golf bag to hand down to my sons though. I felt a little bad about that.

Nina Bell said...

To the last Anonymous poster:

Please resubmit your comments using a screen name. Please note the explanation above the comment box and on the right side bar of the blog.

Thank you.

Weed said...

I think Bertha posted here by accident and really needed to post at GWOP - has she even read the posts on this site. Like it's been said before - we are neither haters or lovers, just in between. And "yippy" for her that she's met Kate in person but to call this site "Haters", cheese and crackers - take a chill pill.

Anonymous said...

I just saw this episode during the marathon on Thanksgiving. The episode did little to show anyone a softer side of Kate. She was controlling and condesending and to watch her compared to earlier episodes is a big change. From what I saw she just stood there ordering Jon around. Either Kate is and has always been that way or the show has changed her, I think Kate has let the show go to her head. This was, I agree with others, Kate at her worst.

Jon did however admit the items being sold were sent to them or donated. This still leads me to believe the Gosselins need to tell people they are FINANCIALLY set and not just blessed. Since most people whom attend church don't necessarily think of blessed as a monetary thing. Blessed can mean so much more.

But what great works have they done to sell things they didnt pay for to donate those proceeds to a worthy charity. I gave 3 times that amount in clothing last year to AMVETS.

Personally I think they are walking a thin line at the churches. If they say they are wealthy I'm sure the donations might be less. If they charge a fee then that I have no problem with. And while I have no reason to disagree with the comments of the mod that saw them, I think they come just short of giving people a real impression of how well off they now are.

Anonymous said...

One thing to think about: they have different sizes of children, so they may not have given as many clothes as you, (nc resident) because they may have given the clothes they have only grown out of.

Wendy said...

"How so? When people joke about Kate Gosselin being killed, when they talk about hoping she'll end up alone with all of her kids hating her, when they compare her to various murderers...we aren't supposed to call those people haters?"

Good gracious where have you read that anyone wanted Kate killed? She may be a lot of things, but a murderer? I think narcissist is more likely.

Guinevere said...

Good gracious where have you read that anyone wanted Kate killed? She may be a lot of things, but a murderer? I think narcissist is more likely.

Kate being killed has been joked about - I think more than once - on GWoP.

I've also seen her compared to Diane Downs (who murdered her children) and OJ Simpson. As well as a couple of other horrible people I can't think of right now.

I don't think Kate's a narcissist, but I also don't feel qualified to say one way or another, not being a psychiatrist and knowing that if I was, it would be totally unethical of me to diagnose people through the tv screen.