The entire Gosselin clan heads to New York City for the day, embarking on a press tour to promote their new book. After a busy morning of appearances on several well-known talk shows, Jon and Kate decide to take advantage of the Big Apple.
162 comments:
Anonymous
said...
Does anyone else find it a bit weird to tape "shows within shows?" 1. Good Housekeeping photo shoot--and then the magazine comes out. 2. Oprah--getting ready on J&K+8 and then being on Oprah. 3. The New York one coming up tonight.
I think it would be odd to ignore it on their family show, but it somehow comes out as old news or not as interesting because we already know how it turns out.
I agree it's sometimes of old news. That's kind of how I felt about the yard sale episode since we had heard about it before. I am interested in seeing the behind the scenes of them getting ready for the appearance since we were shown the end result. It's slick that they combine the two and get paid for both. That's so smart.
CincyMom said...Does anyone else find it a bit weird to tape "shows within shows?"
The Oprah show was a bit different because I think it was the first time we saw them venturing out and appearing on a national talk show. And, of course, the kids were much younger, so there were more logistical issues to deal with. Obviously, it's become much more routine to them (and us!) now.
I would think those who want the children to have more privacy would at least be happy in that the kids are being filmed outside the home.
I will keep an open mind on tonight's show, but I hope we see a lot of New York. I think it would be fun to see the kids at some of the well-known landmarks.
Personally, I like the behind the scene shows like the one they did for Oprah and Good Housekeeping. It is fascinating to me what goes into getting ready for such events etc.
I never thought about them getting paid twice for such shows.
Not sure how TV world works, but does Oprah, Good Morning America etc pay for their guest on the show or is it just more free publicity? Just curious.
Anya said... I would think those who want the children to have more privacy would at least be happy in that the kids are being filmed outside the home. I felt that way at first about the yard sale episode. We pretty much just saw their backs as they headed towards the playground. My problem is it's still the parent's decision to display the family's life to the public, preserved on DVD. I was surprised while watching a shot of Alexis I can't remember what it was. I think she was in the water in HI, but her face was beaming with delight. I suddenly felt guilty for seeing that moment because she didn't know I was watching. I feel so nosy watching this show. I have given it some thought and I think it's generational. I was raised in much more private times. The thought of your real every day life being open for the world would have been brazen and beyond tacky. You were supposed to keep your window shades rolled completely down. Society has changed and this appears to be acceptable to a lot of people. Alexis wouldn't have had that moment if we hadn't been watching, so there's the catch. Perhaps, by the time the little ones are older, knowing so much about them will be viewed as normal. I'm out here on a public blog, which is not something I ever thought I would do. Adjusting to a new generation...am I really that old? This must have been how those old people felt having to get used to Elvis.
BEE said...Not sure how TV world works, but does Oprah, Good Morning America etc pay for their guest on the show or is it just more free publicity? Just curious.
That's a good point. I think from what I have heard, most shows, such as Oprah, do not pay their guests. I am sure the critics will say the Gosselins are getting the benefit of free marketing, along with the paycheck from the show so in that sense I guess some would consider it a "2 for 1."
Merryway...My problem is it's still the parent's decision to display the family's life to the public, preserved on DVD. I was surprised while watching a shot of Alexis I can't remember what it was. I think she was in the water in HI, but her face was beaming with delight. I suddenly felt guilty for seeing that moment because she didn't know I was watching. I feel so nosy watching this show. I have given it some thought and I think it's generational. I was raised in much more private times.
Good points, Merryway. I do think you have a valid point about some folks comfort level partially having to do with how and when they were raised.
I also think we as viewers should take the time to reflect on what we are watching and ask ourselves if it's entirely healthy. I have not personally seen anything on J&K that I have felt really crossed the line, but there have been moments on other shows, such as "Trading Spouses", etc. where I *did* feel like a voyeur and I felt I was witnessing something that probably shouldn't have been put out there. Of course, everyone is going to have different reactions based on their own values.
I suddenly felt guilty for seeing that moment because she didn't know I was watching.
I know what you mean. I have felt like that with these kinds of shows before too. But then when I was a nanny I felt a similar sense of that when I witnessed a childhood milestone that the parent missed (when one of the kids rode his bike for the first time, etc.).
Just as a side note...I was thinking about how some people think that these children will be embarassed by what people have seen of them when they grow up. Not that I doubt that at all, but I've seen some very embarassing things on television before the Gosselin's came along. Maury anyone? I remember watching Oprah where there was this mini-doc about a child who was still breastfeeding at the age of 6! Wouldn't you be embarassed by that? Or those poor children on SuperNanny. I would be appalled if my worst moments of childhood were played out on TV.
I guess where I was going with that is that it's not fair to single the Gosselins out for displaying embarassing childhood footage. There are plenty of other shows out there that do the same.
I feel happy that the Gosselins can promote their book and still see New York City at the same time. I think it is a great experience for the kids! When my kids were four, when we would tape them, they certainly didn't know we were taping them, mush less what a camera was! I hope the kids will love seeing all the sites in the city!
As far as the comments go about getting paid for both shows...I think that many of the posters here are forgeting that it is more than likely Figure 8 that decides on the shows. I highly doubt the Gosselins just sit around coming up with ideas for the show. They may have input, but not 100% control.
Also, I'm sure they are on contract for a certain number of shows. If you don't make a show of the special things they do, what do you want to see? We can't see 45 shows of Kate making lunch and getting them ready to go to pre-school. That really would be boring!
This sounds boring to me, but I've been surprised before. I've always had a wonderful time in NY so I'll watch to jar happy memories, hoping they'll have some of the same wonderful experiences. I think it's smart that they get "2 for the price of 1" shows out of these deals, for the kids' sakes. I do feel like we're starting to see too much of them, and at this point trips, "at home making lunch," and "show in a show" are getting old. How many more are left anyway? When is this season over? I don't really even know when it started!
I have found that it's hard to tell from the descriptions whether I'll like an episode or not, so I'm reserving judgment.
It does seem like whatever the focus of the episode is, there is someone who doesn't like it or disapproves: if they're at home, it's intrusive, if they're on an outing like Legoland, it's not really their "everyday life"; if it is their real life, book tour and all, some people complain that there have been too many similar shows.
I guess I'm fine with the mixture they have, mostly. Shows like next week's, where Cara and Mady play "Mom", feel a little high-concept to me, but as long as it's entertaining, there isn't too much for the haters to salivate over, and the kids appear to be being more or less themselves, I have no objection.
Wow-- lots of good moments this episode! I like that they kinda showed a 'behind the scenes' look at the talk show appearances. I also appreciate how they showed Kate talking more about how thankful she is for the work they get to do, as well as the discussion about how this really is work for them with the appearances and interviews.
I liked this episode, and feel more like Jon and Kate really are working for this money, instead of 'living off their kids' etc. :)
OK--Kate says she does a lot of stuff by herself. Seconds later--Jon says "Why don't they interview one of us." Because the other one is running around after the kids.
WELL--I would venture to say that is because people like the kids. All 8 of them. After all, that is why there is an interest.
So either pack it up (which many would like) or deal with it. Why act so surprised that people want to see the 8 children that made YOU famous??
I know we don't see all aspects of their life. But like the comment about they've been to California multiple times (which we didn't know), I'm like what is going on? When did they go so much that we don't know.
Oh-well. I'm getting jaded to it all. They've "done it all" and I just don't know it. We aren't experiencing it with them at all. There really isn't a "reality" to it. Just what they want us to know.
I have to say, I thought this was kind of boring. I really miss seeing episodes of the kids. I think they have such cute children, and that's what I really care to see.
Not one mention of Beth. Hmm. I'm trying not to read too much into that, but at the same time, not ONE mention, even though she's an author?
All I could think of was all the negative comments others would make about everything in this episode. It really makes watching the show a drag.
WHY isn't the co-author mentioned? Weird. Makes you wonder what is the real deal? Without answers, people make up answers on their own. I guess Beth IS out of the picture.
OK-last comment on this episode from me. Soon, I think will be the last......
I liked it, but it's not one of the ones I would watch a couple of times. I liked seeing the studio, it looked small. J&K had everything under control and they managed everything like it had been done many times. Kate seems like she's getting used to handling so many with more ease. She was so organized and stayed calm. She was very hand's on in tonight's episode, but it will get no notice from bashers. She appears to be letting go of some of her crash moments and handled sticky kids like it was okay.
I do wonder why Hannah's candy was saved for her.
They really complimented each other on the couch. I liked how they reassured each other. Kate might be more relaxed about their marriage since they renewed their vows. I noticed Jon made sure he finished what he was saying after Kate interrupted. It was all without Kate doing the stuff that irks me.
I have always thought it odd that Beth evaporated. It's apparent to me that there relationship has been severed. Sort of a sticky situation since they want to sell the book
Correct me if I am wrong, but wasn't there a lot of chatting about the fact when J&K did these talk shows, there was a distinct lack of talk about the book?
How did their appearance on the talks be all about their book tour?
I liked this episode. A few cute moments (I loved Hannah correcting Jon regarding the taxis - it's fun to see Hannah have some attitude since she often seems meeker and quieter than the other girls), and it was interesting to see Kate's level-headed attitude towards the interviews, etc. - it's work. It wasn't the most fascinating episode ever, but I thought it was pretty good.
Boy, the GWOP site already has 200 postings. I don't understand why there are less postings on this site. I believe by them requiring (starting this thurs.) people to post a name is a good idea. I never understood why someone would want to choose "anonymous" in the first place.
I actually did not watch tonight's episode. I just chose to watch another show instead.
I did read (on the GWOP site) someone commenting about a lollipop incident. I truly believe that Kate just gets into this zone where she reacts in what is a stressful situation for her and completely forgets about her surroundings. Perhaps that could be something that she could work on. Stop and think before reacting.
I loved this episode! So cute. But remember towards the end when all the kids were in the garage? There tons of boxes stacked up, showing that they might be moving!
Merryway - that was my only "gripe" about this episode also. Kate clearly saved Hannah's candy and actually had saved her wrapper; not so for the others. Oh, the favorite child :-) All in all the episode did show Kate not having meltdowns or any of the children. I loved Alexis telling Joel not to call her Buddy, Call me Alexis....too cute. But after this show you can't tell me they have anything left to show - come on, it's over - Please stop and leave on a high note.
Either the Gosselins,their production crew, and all others involved in this show don't get it or they don't care. Just a few things that stand out in this episode.
- Where is Beth Carson? It is as if she has been vaporized. This woman and her family opened their home and their hearts to this family. - Kate saying something to the effect of "It is nice to get away for a few days"?? What about NC, San Diego, and Hawaii? -Hannah, Hannah, Hannah....... ........ -Kate saying something like, I like to use special rewards for these trips... such as broadway shows. Makes the children seem more like trained performers to me.
Jon and Kate continually speak of how much work all these promotional trips are and just how "normal" it is for them. But, what attracted me to the show was the day to day life filmed in the beginning, the show in my opinion is not the one I go hooked on and perhaps this is what sparks the much heated discussions.
I confess that I do post on both sites although very rarely does my post go through on the other site - I'm not a hater. Don't get me wrong, J&K do really tick me off sometimes but.. Someone was making fun of Kate for wearing hip-huggers and her "love-handles". I for one thought Kate looked great (except for that hair-do!!!) and posted a comment defending her - never made it through. Did anyone else think Kate looked great in her little low-cut jeans. I'm the same size as Kate but from my c-section and 5 different abdominal surgeries I cannot get my "pouch" into a pair of low risers so I think if you can - do it. Especially after 8 babies, regardless of her free surgery she has to be doing something to keep that tummy flat. I still think Jon looks great and for some reason he really has been sitting taller in the couch interviews.
Boy, the GWOP site already has 200 postings. I don't understand why there are less postings on this site
In my mind, it is not a popularity contest. Each site serves the needs of the people that want to post.
That being said, I think that there is a very interesting book to be written about the Gosselin blogging world. Probably far more interesting than the Gosselin's themselves.
Nina Bell, I agree that a book about the Gosselin blogging world would be more interesting. However, the book that would be most informative (although I'm sure will never be written)would be penned by the production crew.
Nina Bell - not a bad idea, seriously. Honestly, if a book were written just taking posts from various sites on the same topic, like one of their episodes and compare the various posts from different sites. Wow - that would be amazing. After Monday's show I look at both sites and see how differently the posters view it and boy is there a difference, whereas something might be a minor event and it's blown way out of proportion. Sometimes I wonder if I'm watching the same episode and I actually have to go back and watch scenes again because of what they've written - like Kate's "love handles" last night. What the heck were they talking about??? Anyway that would be an awesome read, just to list the episode and the differences these posters see and how they write about it. I'd buy a copy!!!
I imagine that will come out down the road. Someone will figure out how to get around their confidentiality contract.
Weed, I am not a writer or I would probably attempt it. I am sure the mods and owners of all of these other blogs have as many or more "behind the blog" stories than I do that would make it an interesting read.
I knew people would be all over the sucker thing. Or is it "suckergate"? I know that if I were taking my 2 to have pictures made and someone gave them suckers I would take them too. I think a lot of the people bitching about it would do the same thing. Who wants to take 8 sticky kids on a talk show? Seriously. If they were to go on with dirty faces and sticky slobber stains on their clothes people would complain about them being dirty. Really, the complaints get dumber by the episode.
Kate clearly saved Hannah's candy and actually had saved her wrapper; not so for the others.
I thought they all had suckers on the bus to central park? Did I miss something?
For what its worth, I did notice that Hannah had more of a blow pop sucker and the other kids all had the Caramel Apple ones (which are completely wonderful unless you get your teeth stuck in the caramel!) It seems like they were able to choose, and Hannah picked the one which made less of a mess. It could be that she was the only kid not to fight Kate on giving up a sucker, so thus the reward was hers got wrapped up for enjoyment later instead of thrown out. That is what I have done in the past with kids I nanny for- if you respond the right way and are cooperative, you get rewards. If you complain and throw a fit, the nice thing you have gets put away.
Just what I gleaned from the situation-- it seems like 'suckergate' (haha!!) is really just a way for them (those 'haters' who are constantly finding fault) to feel better about themselves instead of admit Jon and Kate are making positive changes for their kids...
If this book was written for the kids I suspect its going to raise more questions than J&K might care to answer. Where is the Kate's mother mentioned in the book? Hannah is the favorite? Where is the co-author?
I think my posting here is going to end. I must have upset some, because when I answered questions, I received no response.
But I have a couple questions for some of you. Why is the term hater used here any different than sheeple used on the other site?
What is worse? People at GWOP watching to pick out things to nit-pick on. Or people here watching to see what GWOP'ers are going to nit-pick on.
I think fair and balanced is in the eye of the poster.
Lizabeth you just dont seem to get the point Kate made about bonding with Hannah. She is her favorite by her own admission. Forget whatever else is said, on another forum. She said it, we see evidence of it on almost every show. But, they arent my kids so when they start asking about it that will be a job delegated to J&K.
My point being we each see what we want to see. Im not here to change that at all, just to discuss what we see.
T-bag, the "gate" comes from the Nixon days of Watergate. A group of people early on started calling scenes "gate." The first one I can remember was pottygate, from the tups using the potties.
I wouldn’t call it “sucker gate” but the kids were going into the studios and they were cleaning the kids up and J&K were tossing all the suckers except Hannah’s. She asked Jon if he still had her wrapper and said good (I’m paraphrasing here). But it was obvious, at least to me, that Hannah’s would have been saved regardless of sticky-ness. She favors Hannah and even admitted that she bonded with Hannah first and that’s why she tends to favor her. I understand Kate’s explanation of bonding with Hannah first but the favoritism she shows is hard for me to watch sometimes. Especially with the little boys – it hurts my heart so I can’t imagine what the little ones feel. And in respond to Lizabeth that if you respond the right way you get rewards, okay – I’ll buy that but this was not the situation. They were tossing suckers to get cleaned up to go on air and Hannah’s was saved!! Kate had said that she had organic suckers in her purse but the office assistant gave them the ones they had there. So I don’t see it as being rewarded for being cooperative. We all read more into these situations that what’s seen on screen but IMO Hannah’s was being saved because it was Hannah’s. Period. Also, IMO Hannah isn’t the most cooperative child in the bunch – I feel she is becoming a little mouthy and snarky in her responses to both adults and the other children and that could very well be in response to knowing that she is the favorite and mommy does overlook her indiscretions.
Thanks NC resident - I had forgotten about the lipo but still she had those procedures done at least 2 years ago and she's done a good job of keeping it off. And thanks for trying to get my point across about the sucker - it had nothing to do with being cooperative and getting a reward with your sucker being saved. It was Hannah's. Kate has admitted to what we see as favoritism being the result of bonding with her first. It's okay - we get it, but I'm sure to the other children it's a tough pill to swallow and they are getting old enough to realize what Kate's doing. Always carrying Hannah, letting her sit in her lap, whenever they separate for safety or rides - it's always Kate and Hannah. We see so much of it on screen - can you image how much we DON'T see off screen. Like I said (IMO) it's gotta be a tough pill to swallow.
There could have been several reasons why Hannah's sucker was saved. Kate could have made a promise, Hannah could have just started that one, etc. I would hope that Kate and Hannah's bond doesn't lead to special privileges. Kate has been shown loving on and carrying all the children, but we see Hannah being held the most. This sucker incident isn't enough to convince me that Hannah is treated differently other than being held more often. I give Kate credit for knowing her children well (except when she took Mady's bear to her ear piercing, I knew how that was going to go. But that's a new mom mistake). My first thought was there might be more about Hannah's needs than we know. Pure speculation, but that was what popped into my head.
I think it's cute how they go and do all this fabulous stuff, but the suckers are the treats.
I think a book about the blogging world of J&K would be interesting. People's reaction and the background drama are more fascinating than the show itself.
I can't believe people are griping about them being driven to NYC. Who would want to drive there with a huge bus and eight kids?
I'm going to give Kate a mulligan on the wrapper thing. If you look at the episode, the other kids suckers were in clear wrappers that were ripped off. Not the kind that will re wrap around. Hannah's was the only one that had the white wrap around style wrapper and thus the only one to be saved. Would I have only saved one and not the others? Prob not, but that's just me. I don't see Kate in a bad light over it. Sometimes people get in the habit of something and don't even realize what they are doing.
My youngest sibling almost died when he was 4 months old and my mom has coddled him ever since. He is now a 37 year old who is still the favored with my mom. It never hurt me or my sister. We got it. We were never neglected or not loved. We just noticed that our mom had a deeper bond with him because of what happened.
I view Kate having a bond with Hannah and neither condemn or approve of it either way. It's their business and I don't see any of the other children lacking for affection from her.
Ruthe said... "Where is Beth Carson? It is as if she has been vaporized."
This isn't and has never been the "Beth Carson Show". I doubt your average J&K viewer not involved in the blogging world is pining for her return (or even noticed that she has "vaporized.") To me, she was just another of the extended family and friends who appeared more frequently in the first two seasons of the show. I like Beth fine, but I didn't watch the show for her. Same for Jodi, Nana Janet, etc.
On another matter, I didn't understand your "Hannah, Hannah, Hannah" reference until I read on and saw some other's comments. In my opinion, many are seeing what they WANT to see. I watched last night's show and I didn't see anything about a sucker being saved for Hannah. I am not doubting it happened, I just think it's very interesting what you happen to notice and comment on.
A couple of posters have stated either directly or indirectly that Kate has "admitted that Hannah is her favorite." Puleez. She has said nothing of the sort. In her book, she states that she bonded with Hannah first. Hannah was out of the hospital first and Hannah responded to human touch and cuddling more than the others at first. Kate also said at another point, that she has felt that Hannah "needed her more." Hannah appears to be the kind of kid who clings to her mom's side a bit and needs reassurance from Kate before trying new things. It appears the others may not need this as much.
Different personalities - different parenting style. It doesn't mean Kate "loves" Hannah more. She loves her differently and tries to meet her particular needs. No easy feat when you are trying to balance the needs of 7 other children. I am sure there are some who know they could do it better, however.
Weed said...Someone was making fun of Kate for wearing hip-huggers and her "love-handles".
I would take Kate's "love handles" (along with her "enormous ass") any day of the week. So she had some "help" after carrying 6 babies at once. As someone else pointed out, it's been two years since the surgery. Very few women keep the figure she has without working at it.
We get it - you don't like Kate. Calling her fat just makes YOU look jealous, however.
My last comment on the sucker incident, promise. When entering the building to do the show - Kate told the kids she saw a sign that no lollipops were allowed and they had to throw them away - but kept Hannah's. Also in regards to Merryway and her statement of "I can't believe people are griping about them being driven to NYC. Who would want to drive there with a huge bus and eight kids?" - they drove to Florida and to NC with a trailer hitched on. Now granted - NYC is way more congested and I'm not gonna gripe about them using a bus service but I honestly think they say these things to take light off the fact that these are freebies offered by TLC/Figure 8. One big problem I have with J&K - own it, you get freebies, please stop trying to worm out of it. Just own it and say you're thankful that you didn't have to drive into NYC and that you were provided with alternative transportation.
I don't think the sucker was the only treat the kids got!
Let's see...Central Park carriage ride, although they have done that before, a good romp thru the park-but hey, even Jon said, "they deserve that"...they earned it.
Of all the statements made last night that one stayed on my radar. What do you all think he meant? Earned it because if it weren't for the tups they would not have been there that day, doing TV shows, Kate being interviewed. Or was it because their behavior was outstanding, because I don't think it was.
Why the 8 of them can not sit quietly for 10 minutes astounds me. Truly this is not a difficult task and is not expecting too much from this age range.
Kate's calm demeanor handling all the kids....what, did we watch different versions? She seemed to be wound tighter than a spring and at any moment would self-implode.
She couldn't stand the kids even being too close when they were wanting a drink. Which makes me think, do Fox and Friends, GMA, NOT have water and juice available for their guests? Kate creates so much work for herself.
And the whole lollipop fiasco. I guess if you have to bribe your kids into what she considers as good behavior, you give them a sticky, drooly sucker at 9 am. HELLOOO Kate, how about a cracker!
I did get a kick out of their couch session. They seemed more open and honest, and they both look good.
I just find the G's tacky and distasteful in everyway. I think the kids are growing up with a sense of entitlement that will make some of them unlikeable.
What we see is definitly a working family who have struck it rich on the premise of being a struggling family with multiples.
I would love to take credit for 'suckergate' but that was all hbic8u :)!
nc resident, I do know of Kate's admission in the book to her obvious bonding and love of Hannah. I understand that completely, but I also know that many people make it seem as though she never does anything with or for the other children. We all know that is not true. The problem I see is that whenever Hannah gets *any* treatment- preferential or just normal "I'm your mom and will show you love in this way"- it is blown out of proportion into Kate neglecting the others to care for her favorite. From what I have seen, that is not the complete story- yes, she bonded first with Hannah and has a strong connection with her, but that does not mean she loves her other children less.
As I mentioned, it showed Hannah as having a different kind of sucker, and MonicaW pointed out her type had a wrapper that they were able to save. I don't want to split hairs here or cause people to get up in arms over this, but I did feel from what I saw that the situation was not the "Hannah always gets what she wants and no one else is loved" type which GWoP paints it as.
We don't know details about promises made or anything, so I'd rather err on the side of giving Kate a break after she'd been up super early and had 8 sticky kids to clean up before a TV appearance!
Oh, and thank you to the people who mentioned Leah being adorable with her "Call me Leah!" line. That was too sweet :)! I also loved when Kate was pushing 5 of the tups on the tire swing, while Collin got some alone time with Daddy. Seemed like a nice, relaxing afternoon after a crazy morning!
Anya - I did not call Kate fat. I was defending her by saying how wonderful she looked. I started my post off by saying that the other site was saying Kate looked horrible with hip-huggers and love-handles. Please do not think I was implying she looked anything but fantastic, although I did make a snarky comment about that hair-do, sorry about that but it just couldn't be help :-)
I read the book and I don't believe that Kate said "Hannah is my favorite" but rather that they have a special bond with one another because Hannah was the first baby that Kate was able to hold and snuggle. If any of you are moms you will understand how important those first moments or hours are when you have a baby. Can you imagine not being able to hold your baby/babies for hours or days? So for Kate to "finally" hold just even one of her babies had to be VERY special!
The issue about the lollipops...I haven't read any posts at other blogs but if they are going to term that lolligate they are really stretching it! I thought what Kate was completely appropriate.
As far as the episode goes I really liked it.
Two things I thought were interesting were that the blogs were all a buzz about how miserable Cara looked on Good Morning America etc. In this episode we don't see her having a horrible time at all. They didn't show her having a melt down or being grumpy.
Also, did anyone else notice the garage stacked with packing boxes when they returned late at night? Not that it matters, but I thought it was interesting.
I too am beginning to wonder why Beth isn't even mentioned. I keep hoping that we will see Beth again or at least get some explanation. But that is just my curiosity getting the best of me.
My mom and I have a more special bond than she does with my brother and two sisters, but it's never been a problem. My siblings are secure enough of their place in the family to know that just because my mom and I have more in common does not mean she loves them any less at all.
I see it more as Hannah is the needier of the 6 younger ones, not that she's favored. Have you ever noticed that it's Hannah who seeks out Kate, not the other way around?
Anya you totally misrepresented what Weed said. Ya need read her thread again.
I for one thought Kate looked great (except for that hair-do!!!) and posted a comment defending her - never made it through. Did anyone else think Kate looked great in her little low-cut jeans. I'm the same size as Kate but from my c-section and 5 different abdominal surgeries I cannot get my "pouch" into a pair of low risers so I think if you can - do it.
But so you know one guarantee of lipo is that the fat in the area removed, NEVER returns to that same area.
And since you went there I will too. Yeah we get it you LOVE Kate. Worship her in fact. We are nothing but haters.
Oh well, Anya is right....people will see what they want to see. Kate could be Mother Teresa in real life and people would vilify her due to A. Being on tv, B. Getting "freebies, C. Her hair and other non important issues.
I am not a huge Kate fan not because she has done something wrong, I watch for the kids.
Now if we want to talk about a reality star that does get on the nerves...Matt Roloff of Little People Big World. I would go Kung Pao on that man if he were my husband for all the changes he makes. Get one project done at a time already.
Absolutely not one comment did not make it through today. I have posted all comments. So maybe it was lost in cyber world and you would like to re-submit it.
I know I said I'd stop and with this I will 'cause I really need to get some work done - it's been one of those days. I know Kate loves all her children and I don't mean to imply otherwise. I don't know how they edit the show but last night's episode was a Kate/Hannah love fest and not the first time. The producers do that in many of the shows - Kate showing favoritism towards Hannah. IMO she does need to lighten up on the boys and Alexis but then again - it does have alot to do with how the producers decide to edit the show and what we see and don't see. To get us all riled up, boost the ratings, create the brew-ha-ha(spelling??) And with that I'm done. Thanks for listening to me all day :-)
I agree that Kate's admission in the book of bonding with Hannah first does not necessarily mean that Hannah is favored. People see favoritism in the most ridiculous things - on "the other site" a poster mentions that Hannah is the first one off of the bus when they arrive at home at the end of the episode, which: 1) I don't think is true; I believe we saw Leah getting off first, then one of the boys, followed by Kate, followed by Hannah and 2) so what? Getting of the bus first would be evidence of favoritism? In what universe?
It's been stated before, but we really don't know the particulars regarding Hannah's lollipop being saved. We don't know that *none* of the other lollipops were saved, because we did not specifically see each of the other seven thrown away. Furthermore, I believe the kids were given more lollipops (or given back their first lollipops) later - I recall seeing Cara on the bus later with a lollipop.
I can't believe I'm arguing about this. :-)
I don't approve of parental favoritism, at all, but I think it's realistic to expect that parents are going to have different relationships with different kids. If Hannah is clingy and Collin is not, sure, you'll see Hannah being held a lot more than Collin. That does not mean she is favored; just that J&K relate to her differently because of her needs and her personality.
People who prefer not to hear complaints about GWoP can skip the following paragraph:
I've never seen so many women carp so much about a hairstyle. Catty, petty and stupid, IMO. Also, they won't publish certain comments that they deem too pro-Gosselin, but they'll publish a poster's opinion that Hannah will grow up to be a bitch. Lovely. I've said it before - the hostility directed at that site to a FOUR YEAR OLD GIRL, solely because of some perceived favoritism that she has no control over, is absolutely revolting. Many of those women should be ashamed of themselves, but obviously they have no shame. All while trumpeting their superiority over the supposedly odious Kate. The meanness and lack of self-awareness boggles the mind.
Weed. So sorry. I should have been more clear. I understood your point completely.
By "you" I was referring to certain individuals on another message board who have made negative comments about Kate's body in the past and continue to do so even when it's clear she is trim and fit. It's absurd and the only reason I can think they would make such comments is jealousy. Obviously, YOU (Weed) were presenting the opposite view.
Those who don't want to hear bad things about GWOP beware of the next paragraph.
Guinevere, I totally agree. I can't believe a bunch of grown women are sitting around saying some of the things they say there! I can't help but think that if I were Hannah (maybe not at 4, but later), I'd be really hurt to see some of the things that they say in the name of "protecting the children."
nc resident said..."Anya you totally misrepresented what Weed said. Ya need read her thread again.
And since you went there I will too. Yeah we get it you LOVE Kate. Worship her in fact. We are nothing but haters."
NC Resident. Please see my apology to Weed. I was less than clear in my language, but it was not my intention to "misrepresent" her words. I understood what she was saying from the get-go.
I have never called you a hater so I am not sure where that is coming from. There is no doubt in mind that such haters exist in the Gosselin blogging world, however. How else to explain posters who call Kate "fat" or joke about her untimely demise?
I hate to burst your bubble, but I neither "love" nor "worship" Kate. It would be more accurate to say that: a) I kind of "get her" b) I like her about 75% of the time and c) I think the attacks on her often say more about the posters posting them than they do about Kate herself.
And since you went there I will too. Yeah we get it you LOVE Kate. Worship her in fact. We are nothing but haters.
I didn't see where you called Kate fat, so why are you so offended?
What's so wrong with worshipping Kate anyway? I only leave the shrine to comment here(it's not safe to leave all those candles buring unattended).
And the whole lollipop fiasco. I guess if you have to bribe your kids into what she considers as good behavior, you give them a sticky, drooly sucker at 9 am. HELLOOO Kate, how about a cracker
Kate didn't give them the suckers. Matter of fact, I think Kate said something like "Kids don't need suckers this early".
I just find the G's tacky and distasteful in everyway. I think the kids are growing up with a sense of entitlement that will make some of them unlikeable.
I know this has been said a million times, but really, if you find them so disgusting, why do you watch the show? You went on and on in your comment about how repulsive they are, why contribute to their ratings?
I was not offended, just defended what Weed said, like you are defending Anya. Dont worry bout those candles though, word has it Kate insists on drip proof. So the shrine is safe. LOL
Kate didn't give them the suckers. Matter of fact, I think Kate said something like "Kids don't need suckers this early".
Yes she did. She had given the kids her own "organic" lollipops and someone heard her say "lollipop" and brought the kids even more lollipops, that to Kate's dismay, were not organic.
I turned on the tape and Cara also kept her sucker while in the studio. There is also a little jump in film when Kate asks Jon if he has her paper and Hannah is reaching at her sucker Jon is holding. It doesn't look continuous so they may have cut something that happened.
Fiona, you're right. Kate did mention that the carriage ride, park, etc were rewards. As far as the kids sitting still for 10 minutes. I'm sure they're capable, a studio atmosphere would probably jazz them up and make it more difficult for the interviews. I don't think Kate is wound as tight as she used to be. IMO she is handling things much better than she used to. I've been surprised several times at how well she seems to be managing. I feel she might be able to relax more financially, more secure in her marriage, and coming into her own as a mom. It takes a while to figure the whole parenting thing out. I would also be telling them to not crowd. Mom's have the most important job and it's important that your kids recognize your needs also. She said it nicely. I'm not sure about their sense of entitlement. I do think their life is quite the fantasy right now. I think J&K realize this part is only temporary and are trying to take advantage of all while it is being offered. I think it'll be remembered as a wonderful time in their life. There lifestyle has gone up and I don't think it's going to be that must of an adjustment when the excessive trips, etc. come to a stop.
Their personal life seems okay to me, it's the affects of publicizing it that I have a conflict with.
Yes she did. She had given the kids her own "organic" lollipops and someone heard her say "lollipop" and brought the kids even more lollipops, that to Kate's dismay, were not organic.
I think what was said could be interpreted more than one way. I think Kate said she'd brought the organic lollipops as one of the snacks/treats she would give the kids. I don't know that she said she'd given them to the kids already. I'd have to watch it again to be sure, but again, I don't think it was clear one way or the other.
Also, I didn't perceive any "dismay" on Kate's part that the GMA lollipops weren't organic. It seems to me that if Kate had had a problem with the kids being given the non-organic lollipops by the GMA staffer, she would have nixed it. People would have said how rude she was, of course, but we do know that Kate speaks her mind, so I don't think she necessarily had a problem with the non-organic nature of those lollipops. I didn't attach a huge significance to Kate appending the modifier "organic" to the word "lollipops" in this context.
I thought that Kate just noticed how sticky the kids were getting when it was rather early in the morning and they still needed to be presentable for Fox and Friends. Lollipops at 9 a.m. does seem a little gross and unnecessary, though not ultimately a big deal either way.
As far as the kids sitting still for 10 minutes. I'm sure they're capable, a studio atmosphere would probably jazz them up and make it more difficult for the interviews.
I don't know that it's *that* easy for that number of children to sit quietly in unfamiliar circumstances. I think kids can sometimes be made to do so in pre-school, but if you take them on a field trip or something similar, many of them would probably be hyper. It *is* hard for a lot of 4-year-olds to sit still and be quiet for a long period of time. I think it depends on the kid, but I think if one has raised one kid or two, they may not realize that the sextuplets' behavior is well within the range of normal behavior for their age.
I would also be telling them to not crowd. Mom's have the most important job and it's important that your kids recognize your needs also. She said it nicely.
I totally agree. I saw that as a disciplining moment, too - Kate was letting the kids know how they needed to behave in order to get what they wanted. The things people find to complain about!
I'm not sure about their sense of entitlement. I do think their life is quite the fantasy right now. I think J&K realize this part is only temporary and are trying to take advantage of all while it is being offered. I think it'll be remembered as a wonderful time in their life. There lifestyle has gone up and I don't think it's going to be that must of an adjustment when the excessive trips, etc. come to a stop.
I don't think anyone's life is a fantasy from the inside, when they are just living it. The Gosselin kids live in a normal house, go to school or pre-school, eat, sleep, etc. - all like "normal" people. I think that a lot of their life is pretty pedestrian, but then there are these moments - like the book tour or the trips or the filming - that are different from the norm. The family would be different from the norm and would invite public comment (to a lesser degree, sure) even if they weren't on TV.
Yes, it's concerning that the kids may have difficulty adjusting once things change. But I think that's just one of the trade-offs of the show. I've said it before, but there would be many downsides, presumably, to the Gosselins living a more "normal" life that would likely involve J&K working away from the home a lot, not being able to spend much time together as a family, and leaving their kids in the care of someone else. All probably while barely scraping by. I'm not saying that there's anything wrong with *that* choice - it would just be a different choice that would have different rewards and drawbacks. I don't think I've ever seen anyone say that *everything* about the show and the life that it's given the Gosselin kids is positive. I don't think that would be a realistic way to look at the situation.
Production can definitely do some fixing with the quick short shots they use plus they drop the clips' audio constantly. I forgot to mention that Maddy also seems to be blowing her mom a raspberry behind her back while Kate's walking away with the suckers. It's not my kid so I can laugh!
In response to your comment, because both Jon and Kate stated that this was a promotional tour for "their" book I expected that Beth as co-author would either participate directly, or at least be mentioned. I am well aware whose show it is.
"I think what was said could be interpreted more than one way."
So true for just about everything in the show. The bottom line is that we all know editing is involved, and we can only see what they want us to see. Just as most of the "haters" claims cannot be proven, nor can the "sheeples" claims be proven. We are only allowed to see little glimpses, however skewered they may be.
Are we all taking this show too seriously? My husband says YES! because I sit on all the sites and read him bits and pieces. Should we just be enjoying the show for what it is?
Yes she did. She had given the kids her own "organic" lollipops and someone heard her say "lollipop" and brought the kids even more lollipops, that to Kate's dismay, were not organic.
Kate said something about having organic lollipops in her purse for them and that a staff member overheard and thought it was okay to give them to the kids.
To me, it looks like Hannah is the favorite. I completely understand why someone would think she is. My daughter and husband think she's the favorite, and they are not GWoPpers.
I don't think she's the favorite. I think she's the clingiest. I can tell you there were moments when my kids were young when the "clinger" was the least favorite. Not that I really had favorites. I can't remember Kate shooing her other children away just to hold Hannah, either (though I haven't watched all episodes.) I think Kate's just responding to Hannah's need. The others are more independent.
So true for just about everything in the show. The bottom line is that we all know editing is involved, and we can only see what they want us to see. Just as most of the "haters" claims cannot be proven, nor can the "sheeples" claims be proven. We are only allowed to see little glimpses, however skewered they may be.
I believe in erring on the side of giving people the benefit of the doubt when you don't know one way or another. I know that can be hard when you don't like someone, and I'm not saying I always practice what I preach, but I think that's the only morally defensible position to take.
I do wonder about the editing. Is it just a coincidence, for instance, that Hannah is perceived as the favorite, and the editing includes Kate specifically saying to save Hannah's lollipop, but not anyone else's? It could be that small moments like that are meaningless and we give them significance due to our own preconceptions. Or it could be that the producers are screwing with us because it keeps the ratings up. I lean towards the latter explanation, but it's probably a combination of the two.
Are we all taking this show too seriously? My husband says YES! because I sit on all the sites and read him bits and pieces. Should we just be enjoying the show for what it is?
I do enjoy the show for what it is. I enjoy talking about the controversy, mostly. Occasionally I get turned off by the ugliness and unfairness of some of the criticisms, or the hypocrisy of those doing the criticizing. I try to step back when that happens. A TV show is not worth getting upset over.
I just read the GWoP recap by Threefarmers, and it's mean. I don't understand the animosity this woman has for Hannah Gosselin. I have never called anyone a "hater" here, but I can certainly see why others would. That is NOT a child advocacy site. I'll skip the comments today.
Guin said "I believe in erring on the side of giving people the benefit of the doubt when you don't know one way or another. I know that can be hard when you don't like someone, and I'm not saying I always practice what I preach, but I think that's the only morally defensible position to take."
Absolutely spot on.
T-Bag said
"ugh! For my own health I need to stop reading GWOP. It freaks me out a little that a grown woman has that much hate for a 4 year old."
Nice, real classy, GWOP. That moral high ground you claim is crumbling to pieces right underneath you.
Actually Kate brought her organic suckers for the kids...so maybe they had already had one or two-don't know, don't care.
As for Kate, if she did not want her kids to have a sucker, I am quite sure she could have made that known.
I think it was all about keeping them in hand.
I really dislike the comment-"so why do you watch the show..." but I will answer.
We all watch it for different reasons. I watch mostly to see the cute kids growing, see what they are starting to pick up on. I also watch to see what kind of foolishness will come out of Jon or Kate's mouth.
It is entertainment, even if I do groan at my TV on occasion. I watch to see what hot comment will trigger the other crowd. And while sometimes I find there comments amusing, other times I am repulsed, as you say.
The way they pick on Hannah is sad. The way they pick apart Kate, who is still a human being last time I checked is shocking.
I chuckle by the commenters who say Kate shouldn't wear a certain type of jeans and wonder if they aren't just jealous that they can't squeeze their own fat ass into a cute pair of jeans.
This show is so much more than any other series I have ever watched. There are so many facets that it has turned into a psychology class.
Now I sure would be worried if someone still said they watched because Kate is super organized, or something equally lame...so, it is your turn, why do you watch???
Saint said... I just read the GWoP recap by Threefarmers, and it's mean. I don't understand the animosity this woman has for Hannah Gosselin. I have never called anyone a "hater" here, but I can certainly see why others would. That is NOT a child advocacy site. I'll skip the comments today.
December 2, 2008 1:40 PM
---
I think that woman is seriously lacking something in her own life that the GWOPPERS fill for her.
Do I see an improvement in Kate outwardly? Yes, I do...thus the analogy that she was wound tight. It does appear that she was trying very hard. As I said, I think she makes things harder on herself...why even allow a sucker early in the a.m., by herself or anyone else. How about, after the show, then she wouldn't have to worry about the sticky.
Same thing with carting a cooler. They aren't babies, and can certainly make it to the next destination without a drink.
And sorry, but with all the photo ops these kids do, the public appearances, I absolutely think the kids should be expected to sit nicely for 10 minutes.
Not much is expected for those who aren't taught better.
Fiona, I watch because of this blog and all the blog drama from the fall. AND there is nothing else on at the same time that appeals to me. Sometimes I miss, though. Also, I live near enough to the Gosselins to have done all the local things they do, and my kids enjoy seeing the places they went to as little ones. I sure wish I lived in Hawaii though! :)
Why the 8 of them can not sit quietly for 10 minutes astounds me. Truly this is not a difficult task and is not expecting too much from this age range.
Can you please tell me how to get them to sit quietly for that long? Truly? I teach a preschool class at my church, and cannot accomplish this. I teach much older children every day and they are able to be quiet. But those preschoolers? Holy cow!!
The only way to get them all quiet is to really get them sucked into a book or a good story. Even then, there are still a few stragglers rolling on the floor, trying to tell me about their cat, etc.
Jon mentions how much work they do, how this is the hardest job ever. What does that mean for the kids? Are they working too? Not as hard, harder???
Fiona, I say this as someone who would like, for the sake of certain kids, to see the show end or be pared back. Jon and Kate do more than what the kids do. They have additional traveling and talks at other venues. They do scheduling and negotiating, meeting with PR people, additional interviews, the things that go on behind the scenes. They are adults, yes. The children should not have to work hard for a living, yes. But it is an exaggeration, IMO, to suggest that the children work harder. I understand your point, I think, but the true answer to your question of whether the kids work harder is no.
I know the show is about the Gosselins, but it would have been nice to acknowledge Beth when talking about the book. But, maybe that was editted out so they don't have to talk about who she is. I do think the editting is aimed at keeping "controversy" going.
Fiona, in regards to how much work they said it is, I think they try to make sure it's not stressful for the kids and rightfully so carry the load. With the scheduling, organizing, prep and individual speaking engagements, etc. I do think Kate is the type to make more work for herself. I really hesitate on judging the kids because I haven't seen them 24/7 just the glimpses which show some continuity of behavior. I would hope they could sit still in an everyday setting, they seem to when they're eating. They're excited and lots of people at these shoots and shows. It's harder when they're siblings. Because it's brothers and sisters, there's always one who will poke, giggle, and get it started. Personally, I just wouldn't jump to that conclusion. Guin, I would be surprised if J&K thought felt there life was pedestrian right now. They are surging in their popularity, trips, and publicity right now and I guess they have already moved into their new home. I would think that even J&K see their life as surreal at this point. Life seems to have been good them.
Guin said: I do enjoy the show for what it is. I enjoy talking about the controversy, mostly. Occasionally I get turned off by the ugliness and unfairness of some of the criticisms, or the hypocrisy of those doing the criticizing. I try to step back when that happens. A TV show is not worth getting upset over.
Very well said! At first I loved the show, now I love watching so I can go and see what everyone is saying.
I also agree about giving people the benefit of the doubt, though I do admit that I can be a tad too cynical sometimes.
"Florida Mom said...I know the show is about the Gosselins, but it would have been nice to acknowledge Beth when talking about the book."
Sure. I agree. I guess I am just not sure how much Beth contributed to the book. There are some who seem to think that she wrote the whole darn thing and I don't think we have heard one way or another - have we? It's funny because Jon is listed as a co-author too and the whole book is written in the first person by Kate. So maybe he contributed something, but I am not sure what it is. There may have been legal reasons to include Beth's name on the book if she helped in any way with the initial writing and/or editing. Just speculation.
Scarfoot and Merryway, thanks for your insight. I haven't consistenly been around 4-year-olds in a few years, but my sense was the majority do have trouble staying still and quiet when in a group.
As to why I watch: I think the kids are adorable. I have always been interested in family dynamics and J&K actually interest me. I don't agree with every single thing they do, but I am not "bothered" to the point of agitation by anything I see. And, of course, I love talking to you all after the show to find out what others are thinking....
This is totally off topic but I'm wondering if they are going to change their opening. I'm surprised they haven't for the new season....
I know I'm not following the flow of discussion because I haven't had time to read the comments before...so sorry if this comment is out in left field.
I read 3Farmers recap with my head shaking the whole time. She should be ashamed of herself and calling that site a child advocacy site is really ridiculous!! I find it so repulsive that anyone would have such disdain for a 4 year old, and have the nerve to voice it on a website! She must be sorely lacking something in her life to be so passionate....its sad.
Guin, I would be surprised if J&K thought felt there life was pedestrian right now. They are surging in their popularity, trips, and publicity right now and I guess they have already moved into their new home. I would think that even J&K see their life as surreal at this point. Life seems to have been good them.
It's not that I think they don't realize, looking at it from the outside, how different, and yes, unusual their lives have become. It's just that I imagine a lot of their time is still devoted to doing the stuff they've always done, especially in terms of taking care of their large family.
I've never been famous or been in a situation that I would call "surreal", but I think even in those heightened moments in one's life - say, maybe going through the death of a parent - you look back and can kind of marvel at how normal and yes, pedestrian things felt at the time. I mean, yes, you're aware that something big is happening, but you still have to go grocery shopping and clean the litter box (I realize the death of a parent is a pretty poor analogy, but it's the closest experience I have to heightened reality/surreality).
I'm new here (after switching from GWOP which just got too annoying) and they literally have like over 60 posts about Kate's hair.
Now it's funny that the moderators claim that they rejects comments that are repeating the same things that have already been said and yet comment after comment about "Kate's hair sucks" keeps getting let through.
When I made a post that remarking on Kate's hair makes the site look stupid and immature and will cause people to not take it seriously....my post was rejected. Actually I've never had a post go through that happened to have maybe one or two sentences not agreeing with them, even if it's a whole post about how much I dislike the G's....lol
I really dislike the comment-"so why do you watch the show..." but I will answer.
I know, I'm sure you have heard it more than once. My thing is, this has become like a book club. You have to watch the show or you have nothing to talk about. I guess I was wondering if that was the only reason you watch. I think that's what it's come down to. It seems that there are many who can't stand JandK or the show in general who still watch so they have some insight to bring to the table at the "meeting".
I don't agree with everything they do, but overall I still like them and I find the show interesting. Hopefully, if I ever get to the point where they disgust me I'll find something new to watch on Monday nights.
And sorry, but with all the photo ops these kids do, the public appearances, I absolutely think the kids should be expected to sit nicely for 10 minutes.
Not much is expected for those who aren't taught better.
For someone who thinks the kids are working, isn't it a good thing that the kids aren't being threatened into sitting still for 10 minutes like angels? To me, it would be more like work for the kids if they were told to sit still and shut up instead of being told to just hang out on the big couch for a few minutes. They aren't being forced to pose or learn lines, they are just sitting and interacting with eachother. Why is that such a bad thing?
Yeah at 4 years old very few children sit "still" for 10 minutes at a time.... especially when you have so many brothers and sisters to potentially distract/antagonize you. I taught preschool before having my own daughter and it would have been unreasonable to expect them to sit perfectly still or not make a peep for 10 minutes. I think they do very well all things considered- in my opinion if they did sit still and behave like perfect little angels some people would complain about that and be certain that Kate had threatened them all with life and limb if they weren't quiet lol. They are normal 4 year olds beahving in a normal 4 year old fashion and thats just what they should be.
I think you will be happy to find that the majority of posters here don't have particularly strong opinions on Kate's hair one way or another. And if they do, one quick comment is usually all that's needed to express one's opinion on this very important topic!
The other site are self proclaimed "advocates" (for what I am not sure), so they have a different agenda I believe.
Keeping the hair talk to a minimum allows us to talk about much more interesting things IMO....
"I realize the death of a parent is a pretty poor analogy, but it's the closest experience I have to heightened reality/surreality."
I can offer a personal experience that I think is closer to that feeling of reality/sureality that Gosselins are probably feeling now. Several years ago, my husband had a sales position that awarded the top level salespeople in each region very large (5 figure) bonuses and an annual, all expense paid trip to very expensive resorts outside the U.S. The first year he qualified, I felt like we'd won the lottery. A large bonus check every quarter, a lavish 10 day trip to Europe where everything was taken care of for us, we didn't have to do anything for ourselves. I couldn't believe it was happening to li'l ole us. The next three years we went to Hawaii, London, Barbados. Then the company was sold and the new owner eliminated all of the sales incentive programs. During those four years, our ordinary life was completely transformed, and thanks to the large commissions and bonuses he earned we were able to do things we'd never imagined. It definitely felt surreal while it was happening, and looking back on that time so many years later, it's not the ordinary aspects of our everyday life at that time that stand out, but all the extraordinary. I can easily imagine that Jon and Kate would feel their life has become surreal, and while their everyday life goes on, almost everything about it has been influenced by this show.
I enjoyed this episode and was reminded when I first went to New York and being 12 how much fun the red apple was. Central park was one of my favorite things to do there along with the carriage ride in the park. I don't think the children work in the sense of traditional work unless you think growing up is work. All the children looked like they had a great time. I think the whole "gate" thing is funny. We should call it "Katiegatie" whenever people don't agree with a decision Kate makes. I guess I was clueless about all the disagreements with this episode because I didn't even pay attention to the lollipops because I had flashbacks to my New York trips as a kid while I was watching. I thought the conversion would be on the Wii but this time it was lollipops and how Hannah is still the favorite. Oh well, it was a nice episode and I liked this weeks show.
At 4 years old, neither of my children could have sat "perfectly still" with a group of 4 year olds for 10 minutes. They are now very well-behaved 11 and almost 8 year olds.
I remain pretty neutral about J&K. I don't find either of them to be parents of the year or the anti-christ. That being said, I wish that the nasty comments about the children would stop.
I continue to be upset by the treatment Hannah is receiving on the other site tonight. Some may say that we shouldn't publicize this garbage, but I want those who ride the fence to see *why* some of us continue to harp on the utter nastiness of that site. Here goes:
*Apparently, "Hannah gets what Hannah wants". Yes, she is quite calculating for a 4-year-old, isn't she.
*Hannah is "quick as a COBRA" in her moves to keep other siblings from getting Kate's attention.
*Hannah isn't a leader.
*Hannah isn't mature.
*Hannah is the "least articulate and bright" of the group.
Yes, ladies, they are out for blood tonight and 4-years-old or not, they are going to get it.
I'd almost like to believe that those comments about Hannah are from trolls, "poking the crazy" as they say. But sadly, I think there are people who really feel that it's okay to rip a little girl apart, for no reason other than that they resent her for being the "favorite" of someone they unreasoningly hate.
I will agree with the comments regarding the 4-year-olds sitting still - if they didn't act "natural", that would be something to criticize them (and Kate) for, too. I haven't seen them be egregiously bad in any of their appearances - they've played and talked among themselves.
I agree it's horrible how they rip on the children. They think they know each child so well from what little we've been shown. I wonder what they would have thought of my stepson at around two. His grandmother babysat and he was always jealous. One day he started saying “let me hit that baby” He was told no and explained how it was wrong for him to hit. So then he asked his grandmother to hit the baby for him. He's 23 now and doesn't go around slapping babies.
♥ said... I read 3Farmers recap with my head shaking the whole time. She should be ashamed of herself and calling that site a child advocacy site is really ridiculous!! I find it so repulsive that anyone would have such disdain for a 4 year old, and have the nerve to voice it on a website! She must be sorely lacking something in her life to be so passionate....its sad.
December 2, 2008 5:20 PM ---
And 3F is a second grade school teacher...sure wouldn't want her teaching my kids.
In response to those who think the kids behavior is OK on the set...I would like to say I never said they should sit perfectly still, be perfect angels or robots.
Just as they behaved at the wedding, when someone else is talking, you should not be...in that type of setting. And Cara and Mady aren't much better. Basic good manners is all I would expect...jazzy environment or not.
For someone who thinks the kids are working, isn't it a good thing that the kids aren't being threatened into sitting still for 10 minutes like angels? To me, it would be more like work for the kids if they were told to sit still and shut up instead of being told to just hang out on the big couch for a few minutes. They aren't being forced to pose or learn lines, they are just sitting and interacting with eachother. Why is that such a bad thing?
December 2, 2008 6:07 PM
--- I don't think I even came close to saying that...a little over the top there, dontcha think?
looking back on that time so many years later, it's not the ordinary aspects of our everyday life at that time that stand out, but all the extraordinary.
Spanglish -
I'm just wondering if you had kids at this time and they were going with you on the trips? As an adult, I can see your point on how exciting it is. But from a kid's point of view, I'm just wondering if they miss it as much as you do.
I'm assuming for your husband to get those rewards he must work long hours with probably a lot of business travel. This isn't a judgment against you or your family - really it's not, because people need to do what they need to do, but I wonder if you've asked your kids if they would appreciate more time with Daddy vs. a 10 day trip to Europe? Sometimes I wonder if the Gosselin kids will feel that all their trips and freebies are worth the price they had to pay to get them.
ThreeFarmers said... But what you're doing and the way you do it are only hurting the Gosselin kids, who'm everyone here says they are being exploited, blah bla blah. That is the saddest part of this whole show. This feedback they get from people who think it's their right to criticize with such a mean streak and venom. You're only hurting those kids.
The PARENTS of those children are the ones who are hurting them. I do not feel one ounce of guilt nor will I take any of the blame for the damage that Jon and Kate's decisions will inflict on those kids by insisting that the children work to support that family.
The entertainment industry is a rough one and it is even rougher because those children cannot escape the cameras in their own home. Jon and Kate are not bigger or more important than the industry in which they have CHOSEN to raise their family. The standards by which programming is judged does not change because people who are making poor decisions will it to change.
The entertainment industry and all those involved in it have been harshly criticized for as long as there have been entertainers. That is WHY children should not be raised in front of those cameras.
I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim.
Does anyone think that people who say negative things about any of the kids believe they are being mean TO the kids? I think that sometimes people think they are having a discussion and actually have a distance from what they are saying and simply believe they are stating their opinion, but not doing anyone any harm.
And then there are people who think that making negative statements about the kids is a direct and personal attack against the children.
I must confess that I am a little uncertain about how I feel about those negative statements. It might depend on how the negative statement is made.
For example, when people make statements saying something like, "Mady is (negative word here) and always will be, " it really says more about the lack of intelligence of the person making the statement than about Mady. I can't really muster up any anger for someone who is obviously (imo) ignorant. I just end up feeling pity for those sorts of posters.
Kimber, I do agree with you that the statements people make which are "snarky" and hateful only serve to show who they really are as a person. I mentioned before that the way some have responded to the children and things some have said made me like the Gosselin family more. People like the posters at GWoP who spend so much time making rude remarks about how Hannah and Mady will grow up to be a bitches seem to be trying to gain approval and acceptance through being 'funny' and 'making jokes.'
I do not think these remarks personally hurt the children, but I do think that if Mady were to read what is written about her (in a matter of time she may find these sites, poor thing) that it could definitely break her spirit. I would be devastated if the comments made about Kate were made about me, whether I 'deserved' them in someones eyes or not.
As in all things, a persons true self is shown by how they handle criticism. I think Jon and Kate have shown over time to be changing their show schedule to it protects their kids more and gives more privacy. Making changes like this in a way does show they pay attention to critics, but have not succumbed to the massive amount of drama and negativity that could potentially be all consuming.
Elizabeth, I agree. Threefarmers (and the other regs at GWOP) only keep at this because it makes them feel some what special. 3Farmers most likely has no life in reality and the fact that her recaps keep getting posted (and she keeps getting validation for them) only makes her feel as if she is important and needed. Each poster over there is only trying to "one-up" each other, and see who can tell the best joke or make the nastiest comment. I used to think they cared about the welfare of the kids, but when the ridiculous nit-picking was encouraged I realized they are just a bunch of lonely housewives with nothing better to do with themselves. It's pretty pathetic.
kimber, I do think it's hard for some to make a distinction between them being characters and real people. I remember an interview with Nancy McKeon, one of the queens from lifetime movies. She said when she is recognized a lot of women want to know if “she's okay” because they had seen her beaten, lose her baby, etc. A lot of people like to “quarterback” their shows and trash celebrities. I thought that's what GWOP was doing when I first started reading. I realized how personally involved some felt and how those types of comments were intended. You do hear a few reasonable voices over there in some of the posts. But some of the posters are just crazy and frightening. I think their hate is thrilling for them. I really liked all the discussion. I have taken way too much “me” time and am behind.
I'm sure this is offensive on some level; but I thought 3farmers was a man for a long time because her posts were so harsh and the crude attitude towards the children.
I don't think I even came close to saying that...a little over the top there, dontcha think?
Um, no. Why would that be over the top? You've said more than once in this thread that you were "astounded" that the kids weren't more well behaved on these shows. They were sitting there talking to eachother and squirming a bit. I don't think that it was a huge leap to assume based on your comments that you expected them to be still and silent.
All I'm saying is if they were being perfect in every interview and were all smiling in each and every picture, it would look more like work to me. It's not natural for 6 4 year olds to always be cooperative and if they were I'd think it was forced. As it is, it appears that the parents are the ones doing the work and that the kids are just tagging along.
I'm confused... are we not to have opinions of the children? When the G's themselves say that Aaden acts like a baby and that Alexis has an ear-splitting scream, is it not then ok for viewers to comment that they don't perceive Hannah as a leader or they are annoyed by Mady's sassiness? I know that some folks take it too far with their disparaging descriptions of G family members, but I am truly confused as to what is deemed "acceptable" comments regarding the kids.
"Can you please tell me how to get them to sit quietly for that long? Truly? I teach a preschool class at my church, and cannot accomplish this. I teach much older children every day and they are able to be quiet. But those preschoolers? Holy cow!!"
Amen to that! My husband & I teach the 4 & 5 year old Sunday school class at our church and they're adorable, but boy, are they loud and full of energy!
P.S. I noticed there was another Heather posting on here, so I picked a more unique name.
There is finally a new webisode on tlc.com! It shows the kids as well as Jon and Kate playing on this concrete jungle gym thing in Central Park that is apparently a fountain in the summer time--
Couple things I noticed-- not only did Kate say "No" to Hannah (when Hannah asked her to come see something as Kate was busy making sure the other kids were safe) but Kate also complimented Cara and Mady on their plan to help the little kids down a ladder. It was cute to watch them play together, and (for the umpteenth time) proves that just because we don't see things on the show does not mean they don't occur :).
3 Farmers claims to be advocating for those kids just like the rest of the regular posters and moderators at GWOP.
It is abusive. And typically, like an abusive person, she takes NO responsibility for her actions. Instead she blames the people to who she directs the attacks.
I do find it interesting that 3F says:
"I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim."
Of course, she is secretly adding the following disclaimer (wink wink)
"I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim .... with the protective cloak of anonymity."
UGHHHHHHHHH
I love how 3F shrouds her supposed advocacy and under some implied cloak of righteousness.
Puleeze.
Beer courage and nothing more that is what her brand of commentary amounts to.
here's a kicker to think about.... the other day at GWOP ( I know, I know, I need to stop talking about them) someone suggested to the moderators that they put up ads on their site and charge admission!!
wouldn't that be exploiting the children even more?
I'm confused... are we not to have opinions of the children? When the G's themselves say that Aaden acts like a baby and that Alexis has an ear-splitting scream, is it not then ok for viewers to comment that they don't perceive Hannah as a leader or they are annoyed by Mady's sassiness? I know that some folks take it too far with their disparaging descriptions of G family members, but I am truly confused as to what is deemed "acceptable" comments regarding the kids.
You can't bitch about what crappy parents they are and then say "Kate said it first" to defend a harsh comment toward the kids. She can't be your moral compass and your arch enemy at the same time. I would think those that dislike her would stive to be her opposite, but that's just me.
Lizabeth said... There is finally a new webisode on tlc.com!
Thanks for letting us know. I'll check it out!
I agree with Fiona - "I guess if you don't know what is appropriate to say or not say about the kids, then it probably is not appropriate." What Jon and Kate say about their kids on camera should have no bearing on what you or I choose to post about the children. We are each responsible for our own words. Also, in case you are confused, my issue is not with calling Mady's behavior "sassy." That's a pretty tame observation.
I believe some Gosselin posters have taken their dislike of a particular child to the extreme and I don't find any logical or moral defense for it.
I am amazed at how hurtful 3farmers posts have become toward the children. Whoever this person is has went over the line I feel as the kids cant defend themselves. But I tell you this the Figure 8 crew helps feed the fire.
Joel is shown as the whinner, Jon even pokes fun at him contorting his face when he speaks about him and the other boys. Then we see Joel at the pool in NC and not once but a few times we see his rear end. In fact it appears to me the camera man is following him around to film his "plumbers crack". Yeah and Kate even pokes fun at him about this. BTW Guinevere this part was an example of editing. On the Thanksgiving marathon it was blurred out. Wonder why that happened?
Many, not me, see Hannah as a favorite of Kate. Does the film crew help add to that fire? Yes, in almost every episode we see Kate holding Hannah, sitting by her or leading her by the hand. In the wedding episode she is the only one shown being held by Kate for a picture. Im sure other children got the pics taken with them so why focus on just her? Many here feel the 3farmers post will hurt the kids if read by them later on. What about the things J&K say about their own children. Im not condoning the comments of 3farmers just saying. How did the GWOP people learn Alexis was in the basement and why? Then she quickly was returned to the bedroom after much ado. except we see her bed in the beginning of the HI episode. A little blame can be placed on more than one person.
Anya on the book deal I think people wonder where Beth is for one reason. It was her and Kate that were on the original book cover. Not until late summer was Jon's name added along with 37 approximate pages. Why should she not be on the book tour. By Kates own admission her family was at Beths every Sunday. She helped author the book to some extent. Why should people ignore Beths absence?
"I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim."
Good heavens. 3farmers has pretty much told us all we need to know about her. How could anyone not realize the ignorance and hypocrisy of a statement like that? And a teacher too. Sad.
I wonder if she would let her students use the "but Kate did it first" defense?"
Maybe I am strange but I don't see why Beth would be on the talk shows with them; the book is about the Gosselins. Something could have changed between the families as far as friendship but it could also be that no one is interested in talking to Beth (except us diehards. :))They want the family. Do celebrities usually have co-authors or ghost writers around to promote their books? I don't know.
"Spanglish - I'm just wondering if you had kids at this time and they were going with you on the trips? As an adult, I can see your point on how exciting it is. But from a kid's point of view, I'm just wondering if they miss it as much as you do."
The trips were only for the top salespeople and their spouses/SO, plus the top executives and their spouses: a total of about 30-40 people for each trip. So the kids weren't involved. They stayed with their grandparents when we were gone and had a blast, and sort of resented going home when we returned. :)
"I'm assuming for your husband to get those rewards he must work long hours with probably a lot of business travel. This isn't a judgment against you or your family - really it's not, because people need to do what they need to do, but I wonder if you've asked your kids if they would appreciate more time with Daddy vs. a 10 day trip to Europe?"
Since the kids weren't involved in the trips, and now that they're grown, what they remember is the great time they had with the grandparents when we were gone. Yes, their dad traveled quite a bit as they were growing up but as much as he could, he was involved with them and their activities. He really had no time to himself during that time, it was either work or family. It wasn't about the amount of time with their dad, but the quality of time, and in that they were very rich indeed.
"Spanglish, That sounds like it was FABULOUS!!"
Yes, it was, merryway. When the program was discontinued, there was a period of adjustment to accustom ourselves to ordinary life again, which is what the Gosselins will have to do at the inevitable end of this show. We have wonderful memories, so many unique experiences. We still benefit today from the financial rewards of that time, and I hope the Gosselins have the foresight to assure their children will also continue to benefit from their current financial gain long after this time of their life is over.
-Does anyone else find it ignorant that GWOP refers to Kate as Katie Irene? That is the reason I stopped reading there.-
I just wonder why they feel the need to, that's all. You know they have to believe that it's either some sort of dig, or maybe it's their way of saying they knew her when she was "Katie Irene" and not "Kate" of Jon and Kate Plus 8. It's silly, but that whole place is tainted. I haven't read the comments on that board in a long time. I might skim the homepage occasionally, but I know it's going to be all about criticizing every move the Gosselins make, and I can't think of a reason why I would want to put myself through reading all that hate. It's aggravating, and I don't need that in my life.
nc resident said...She helped author the book to some extent. Why should people ignore Beths absence?
I understand what you are saying. We all have different aspects of the show and the people who have been on the show that personally interest us.
I just think we can only speculate as to the reasons Beth has not been on the show in some time and/or is not part of the book tour. Some of us are more curious than others about this. I don't know that we will ever find out the full story, however. I guess we can stayed tuned...
I must not watch this show very carefully because I never see blatant favoritism toward Hannah. On the other hand, there have been a few times when I thought about Kate's feelings about boys. Maybe when you have so many kids it's just hard to give everyone the piece of you that they need.
Someone was saying that the gwoppers watch episodes over and over to find the exact moments they are up in arms over. Now I can't be the only one who finds this excessive and obsessive! Wow. I admit to being busy these days but even during my worst moments this past summer I never thought to watch an episode more than once or twice.
Can we have opinions about the kids? Sure. Should we make it our mission to single out one child and continually pick every interaction between her & her mother apart? I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say no......
Hannah's not a leader? Hmm.... what should she be leading exactly, that any of us could properly make that judgement? The counch interviews perhaps?
Surely you understand that even though we see the kids weekly what we see of who they are is QUITE LIMITED- if Kate says in an intro that Hannah is "the leader and Mommy's helper" then Im prone to believe that- afterall she is her mother. And I do NOT see favoritism towards Hannah at all. If anything I see the most positive "couch talk" about Leah (and no I m not sayng I think she's the "favorite".)
Different children need different things- Hannah might be the only one who wants to be cuddled often- I have a very healthy bond with our 5 year old but she has never been a snuggler, I wish she were but she just isn't. I do not believe that Kate turns the other kids away in favor of Hannah- absurd. Adults should know what is and isnt okay to say about young children!
Yeah, I don't see what's so hard about distinguishing between inappropriate and appropriate comments about the Gosselin children. If you're on the fence, well, considering that they are FOUR YEARS OLD, I would advise erring on the side of caution and decency.
Okay, IMO:
Mady is moody
Not okay, IMO:
Hannah is going to be a bitch when she grows up
Really not that hard to see the difference between those two things, I think.
Kate is going to have her hands full when the girls all become teen-agers. Five girls, all with PMS at the same time, does not spell fun. I have a feeling that there is going to be multiple meltdown's in the Gosselin house in the near future.
It wasn't about the amount of time with their dad, but the quality of time, and in that they were very rich indeed.
I agree with this very much, and was the point I was trying to make in a previous post about all the trips the Gosselins take with the kids. Just because the parents are always present doesn't mean they are spending quality time with the kids, or creating memories that they will have forever.
I haven't been posting lately because I haven't had time to see the show, and I didn't really see all of this one, but did Kate really say the appearance on GMA was to promote the book? On the show, maybe 5% of their airtime was spent talking about the book.
I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim.
(before my post, thanks to Nina Bell for teaching me how to bold!!)
Just wanted to say, I really haven't frequented the other blog in quite a while (the need to be masochistic has been absent from my mind for a little while now!) but if this is the argument, I hope they realize it goes both ways. I (as well as many others here I imagine) will continue to do the same thing with their "idiocies".
I learned a very long time ago that it is not a good idea to point fingers at someone else's parenting skills. As long as children are LOVED, well fed, clean and have a roof over their head, who am I to nitpick the particular way a parent, parents?
It is obvious to me that these beautiful children are well loved. As a mom of two, I know from experience that you love your children with the same capacity, however, you parent them all differently. I cannot imagine having to hone my skills to be in tune to 8 children! Imagine what life will be like when they are in their teens.
I have posted many times over at the GWOP site and two of my comments have gone through. I decided to stop frequenting those boards because I am sick to death of grown women picking apart every move this family makes.
The funny thing is, if this show goes off the air like they wish, they won't have anything to piss and moan about.
Perhaps they can take their empty hours and volunteer at a women's shelter or a children's hospital since they are such advocates.
I'm very shocked to read this: "considering how much I hate most of their kids". Someone on a blog wrote this. An adult with children of her own. It's relevant to this thread because the statement was made via watching this episode. This says it all to me re the caliber of this sad soul. You hate most of their kids. Charming.
This is why I don't read other sites. I changed my mind this morning and checked out one other place while I sipped a 2nd cup of tea. Blech! I should have gone downstairs and worked on the rest of my Christmas cards. Would have been a much better use of time AND I wouldn't feel so bad for little kids who did nothing to deserve to be hated. Not hate sites? Indeed! That this would come from a mother's mouth at all is incredibly sad.
Mary, ouch. I know how you feel. I have read things on the main hate site and others that really make me upset for humanity. I know that's a bit of an overstatement, but it is really quite unnerving to see these type of comments, e.g. picking apart a beautiful 4-year-old girl just because she's the perceived favorite - and to know that the person typing on the keyboard is probably "normal" on the outside - could be your co-worker or neighbor....
"Spanglish, Thanks for the perspective. It's neat to hear about. You sound like it was wonderful, but everyday life can be adjusted to, too."
Unfortunately, I can't say that everyone made the adjustment to ordinary life. The program had been in place for 12 years and many people had qualified for several years before my husband joined the company. Most of them were okay afterward, but some had become too dependent on the big commissions and bonuses to maintain their lifestyles, and when the program ended and the amounts were much smaller, they were in serious trouble. I know of two couples who divorced as a result of the stress. This is the danger for the Gosselins when the show is over. The longer they have access to the lifestyle they have now, the harder it will be to give it up when it's over. We could have purchased a much more expensive house at the time, but we chose to remodel instead (a nightmare process at the time, but the results were worth it!).The $1M property the Gosselins supposedly purchased will require substantial upkeep and when the show is over, it may become a burden even if they've put away some money for that purpose as their income after the show is unknown. We made the decision to save for the kids' education and our retirement, and there are no regrets. I hope the same is true for the Gosselins, for the sake of their kids.
I'll just never understand how making fun of Kate's hair, or making fun of each kid's good and bad qualities, can in any way help to stop the exploitation of those kids like the GWOP claims to be doing.
Some moron over there just made an entire post about where the kids are going to be in 50 years and they basically say in so many words that one of the boys (can't remember which one) is going to grow up to be gay. Not that there is anything wrong with that happening, but it is wrong to already assume he will be gay in the future. He is 4 years old!
The $1M property the Gosselins supposedly purchased will require substantial upkeep and when the show is over, it may become a burden even if they've put away some money for that purpose as their income after the show is unknown.
Spanglish -
I was thinking about the same thing the other day, especially because they have stated that the show is their primary income. I do think that Jon and Kate believe they are making the right decisions for their family based on the financial gains they are receiving right now, but at the same time I can't help but think that all this money is clouding their judgement. While they might have the best intentions of saving the money now for them and their kids' future, when the show is over and the mortgage is due, what's to stop them from raiding their kids college fund to pay for it?
I wish there was an outside person protecting the kids' interests to ensure their money will still be there for them when they are older. I have to say, based on what I have seen of Jon and Kate on the show and that they increased the number of shows they are doing in a season which limits the amount of personal privacy the kids have even more, I don't really trust Jon and Kate to do it themselves.
As for making fun of Kate's hair, I have to say that I find the spikes on top of her head to be a peculiar choice, and have thought to myself "what is she thinking?" People in America comment all the time on people's clothes and hairstyles, and someone here even posted she thought Jon looked hot in an episode. While it's not relevant to the show, I don't see why it can't be a topic of conversation among normal, non obsessive people.
I keep telling myself not to read the other site but every once in a while, curiosity gets the better of me and I have to see what the ‘gate’ of the week is. It always leaves me frustrated. I’m not sure what pleasure they derive from being so nasty. There may be posters there who have legitimate concerns but they’re overshadowed by others who are, in my opinion, being mean just for the sake of being mean. No one will ever convince me that comments about Kate’s hair or Hannah’s supposed manipulation are forms of advocacy. The ‘advocacy’ tag is used as justification to be mean-spirited and bitchy. That opinion probably makes me a sheeple. I can live with that. I’ve been called worse.
As for this episode, I didn’t think I’d be too keen on this one because I have little interest in their book and don’t really watch their interviews on other shows. Despite that, I enjoyed it. I liked the way they broke the day into appearances in the morning and the family outing in the afternoon. It was neat to get a glimpse of the behind the scenes stuff and definitely fun to see the kids at Central Park.
Regarding the newest GWoP "talking point," which is evidently Jon's forehead. Seriously? Did it every occur to them that Jon and Kate are wearing stage makeup while being filmed in their "confessional chair?" Jon may be having a reaction to that. Sweating under the lighting while in said confessional would also cause skin problems.
But no, Jon MUST be taking steroids. Are they freaking kidding? That's actually hilarious.
Oh, and as far as the "name calling" in regards to Julie. I'd be lying if I made some kind of half-assed apology. I have no respect for her, her methods or the crowd she keeps. Period. Shrug. But, lecturing others and telling them how to post is kind of unbecoming, as well. Just sayin'.
For some reason my mother "bonded" with my brother more than me. Don't get me wrong. I love my Mom and we are very, VERY close. However, when he comes to town, it's as if a crown prince is visiting.
It's very clear to everyone who's ever seen them together. In fact, it's uncomfortably obvious. Furthermore, my sister-in-law has told me matter-of-factly that he's Mom's favorite - that he's "special."
I love her. I will do anything for her. But this hurts. It has ALWAYS hurt. And it WILL always hurt.
And, when I see Kate cuddle with Hannah more or give the excuse that she bonded more with her, I ache for the other kids. Yes, they will adjust. Yes, they will understand. But it doesn't make it any less hurtful.
And, when I see Kate cuddle with Hannah more or give the excuse that she bonded more with her, I ache for the other kids. Yes, they will adjust. Yes, they will understand. But it doesn't make it any less hurtful.
Trust me, I live it - every day.
With all due respect, PKD, your circumstances are not the Gosselins' circumstances. Every family is different. It has been suggested - and we really can't tell one way or another - that Hannah initiates the cuddling. So it's not that Kate is favoring Hannah when we see her hold Hannah more. It's that Hannah is favoring Kate. I understand, I think, why you might be sensitive on the subject, given your own experiences, but I will say that I've seen nothing that confirms for me that Kate is favoring Hannah in any way - that she's the one initiating the special closeness they seem to have.
I will say that I've seen evidence that Kate treats the boys and girls differently (not necessarily favoritism, just strong ideas about gender roles, as we've discussed), and I don't really like that.
I agree that Kate sometimes treats the boys differently. I think she probably doesn't relate to them as well, because she admits to being a girly girl or an inside girl. When they are all teenagers, she will probably come to appreciate them more. Much less drama. As the mother of two boys, I think boys are great! I have nieces, and would not trade my messy boys for all the drama that comes with girls. Love 'em, but oh the simple life for me :)
162 comments:
Does anyone else find it a bit weird to tape "shows within shows?"
1. Good Housekeeping photo shoot--and then the magazine comes out.
2. Oprah--getting ready on J&K+8 and then being on Oprah.
3. The New York one coming up tonight.
I think it would be odd to ignore it on their family show, but it somehow comes out as old news or not as interesting because we already know how it turns out.
What would be a better way to handle it, if any?
I agree it's sometimes of old news. That's kind of how I felt about the yard sale episode since we had heard about it before.
I am interested in seeing the behind the scenes of them getting ready for the appearance since we were shown the end result.
It's slick that they combine the two and get paid for both. That's so smart.
I'll be curious to see if Beth is even mentioned in this episode.
A show about a show....just an easy way to make more money.
CincyMom said...Does anyone else find it a bit weird to tape "shows within shows?"
The Oprah show was a bit different because I think it was the first time we saw them venturing out and appearing on a national talk show. And, of course, the kids were much younger, so there were more logistical issues to deal with. Obviously, it's become much more routine to them (and us!) now.
I would think those who want the children to have more privacy would at least be happy in that the kids are being filmed outside the home.
I will keep an open mind on tonight's show, but I hope we see a lot of New York. I think it would be fun to see the kids at some of the well-known landmarks.
I love New York - wish I could join them.... :-)
Personally, I like the behind the scene shows like the one they did for Oprah and Good Housekeeping. It is fascinating to me what goes into getting ready for such events etc.
I never thought about them getting paid twice for such shows.
Not sure how TV world works, but does Oprah, Good Morning America etc pay for their guest on the show or is it just more free publicity? Just curious.
Anya said... I would think those who want the children to have more privacy would at least be happy in that the kids are being filmed outside the home.
I felt that way at first about the yard sale episode. We pretty much just saw their backs as they headed towards the playground. My problem is it's still the parent's decision to display the family's life to the public, preserved on DVD. I was surprised while watching a shot of Alexis I can't remember what it was. I think she was in the water in HI, but her face was beaming with delight. I suddenly felt guilty for seeing that moment because she didn't know I was watching. I feel so nosy watching this show. I have given it some thought and I think it's generational. I was raised in much more private times. The thought of your real every day life being open for the world would have been brazen and beyond tacky. You were supposed to keep your window shades rolled completely down. Society has changed and this appears to be acceptable to a lot of people. Alexis wouldn't have had that moment if we hadn't been watching, so there's the catch. Perhaps, by the time the little ones are older, knowing so much about them will be viewed as normal. I'm out here on a public blog, which is not something I ever thought I would do.
Adjusting to a new generation...am I really that old? This must have been how those old people felt having to get used to Elvis.
BEE said...Not sure how TV world works, but does Oprah, Good Morning America etc pay for their guest on the show or is it just more free publicity? Just curious.
That's a good point. I think from what I have heard, most shows, such as Oprah, do not pay their guests. I am sure the critics will say the Gosselins are getting the benefit of free marketing, along with the paycheck from the show so in that sense I guess some would consider it a "2 for 1."
Merryway...My problem is it's still the parent's decision to display the family's life to the public, preserved on DVD. I was surprised while watching a shot of Alexis I can't remember what it was. I think she was in the water in HI, but her face was beaming with delight. I suddenly felt guilty for seeing that moment because she didn't know I was watching. I feel so nosy watching this show. I have given it some thought and I think it's generational. I was raised in much more private times.
Good points, Merryway. I do think you have a valid point about some folks comfort level partially having to do with how and when they were raised.
I also think we as viewers should take the time to reflect on what we are watching and ask ourselves if it's entirely healthy. I have not personally seen anything on J&K that I have felt really crossed the line, but there have been moments on other shows, such as "Trading Spouses", etc. where I *did* feel like a voyeur and I felt I was witnessing something that probably shouldn't have been put out there. Of course, everyone is going to have different reactions based on their own values.
I suddenly felt guilty for seeing that moment because she didn't know I was watching.
I know what you mean. I have felt like that with these kinds of shows before too. But then when I was a nanny I felt a similar sense of that when I witnessed a childhood milestone that the parent missed (when one of the kids rode his bike for the first time, etc.).
Just as a side note...I was thinking about how some people think that these children will be embarassed by what people have seen of them when they grow up. Not that I doubt that at all, but I've seen some very embarassing things on television before the Gosselin's came along. Maury anyone? I remember watching Oprah where there was this mini-doc about a child who was still breastfeeding at the age of 6! Wouldn't you be embarassed by that? Or those poor children on SuperNanny. I would be appalled if my worst moments of childhood were played out on TV.
I guess where I was going with that is that it's not fair to single the Gosselins out for displaying embarassing childhood footage. There are plenty of other shows out there that do the same.
I feel happy that the Gosselins can promote their book and still see New York City at the same time. I think it is a great experience for the kids! When my kids were four, when we would tape them, they certainly didn't know we were taping them, mush less what a camera was! I hope the kids will love seeing all the sites in the city!
As far as the comments go about getting paid for both shows...I think that many of the posters here are forgeting that it is more than likely Figure 8 that decides on the shows. I highly doubt the Gosselins just sit around coming up with ideas for the show. They may have input, but not 100% control.
Also, I'm sure they are on contract for a certain number of shows. If you don't make a show of the special things they do, what do you want to see? We can't see 45 shows of Kate making lunch and getting them ready to go to pre-school. That really would be boring!
This sounds boring to me, but I've been surprised before. I've always had a wonderful time in NY so I'll watch to jar happy memories, hoping they'll have some of the same wonderful experiences. I think it's smart that they get "2 for the price of 1" shows out of these deals, for the kids' sakes. I do feel like we're starting to see too much of them, and at this point trips, "at home making lunch," and "show in a show" are getting old. How many more are left anyway? When is this season over? I don't really even know when it started!
I have found that it's hard to tell from the descriptions whether I'll like an episode or not, so I'm reserving judgment.
It does seem like whatever the focus of the episode is, there is someone who doesn't like it or disapproves: if they're at home, it's intrusive, if they're on an outing like Legoland, it's not really their "everyday life"; if it is their real life, book tour and all, some people complain that there have been too many similar shows.
I guess I'm fine with the mixture they have, mostly. Shows like next week's, where Cara and Mady play "Mom", feel a little high-concept to me, but as long as it's entertaining, there isn't too much for the haters to salivate over, and the kids appear to be being more or less themselves, I have no objection.
I like to watch the kids be funny in the studios, I don't think it's exactly "Awesome Episode" material. I have no idea how I'd make them different!
Wow-- lots of good moments this episode! I like that they kinda showed a 'behind the scenes' look at the talk show appearances. I also appreciate how they showed Kate talking more about how thankful she is for the work they get to do, as well as the discussion about how this really is work for them with the appearances and interviews.
I liked this episode, and feel more like Jon and Kate really are working for this money, instead of 'living off their kids' etc. :)
OK--Kate says she does a lot of stuff by herself.
Seconds later--Jon says "Why don't they interview one of us." Because the other one is running around after the kids.
WELL--I would venture to say that is because people like the kids. All 8 of them. After all, that is why there is an interest.
So either pack it up (which many would like) or deal with it. Why act so surprised that people want to see the 8 children that made YOU famous??
And what's this "We always go to Central Park?"
I know we don't see all aspects of their life. But like the comment about they've been to California multiple times (which we didn't know), I'm like what is going on? When did they go so much that we don't know.
Oh-well. I'm getting jaded to it all. They've "done it all" and I just don't know it. We aren't experiencing it with them at all. There really isn't a "reality" to it. Just what they want us to know.
I think I'm done now.
I have to say, I thought this was kind of boring. I really miss seeing episodes of the kids. I think they have such cute children, and that's what I really care to see.
Not one mention of Beth. Hmm. I'm trying not to read too much into that, but at the same time, not ONE mention, even though she's an author?
All I could think of was all the negative comments others would make about everything in this episode. It really makes watching the show a drag.
WHY isn't the co-author mentioned? Weird. Makes you wonder what is the real deal? Without answers, people make up answers on their own. I guess Beth IS out of the picture.
OK-last comment on this episode from me. Soon, I think will be the last......
And the "we always take a bus there". When have they had to do this?
Are they so in demand? Do we just not see this?
I thought the point was that they don't usually do this. But it seems like "normal" routine to them.
"We survived another one" according to Kate.
Well, I hope you and your family have a good time.
Done watching.
I loved when Leah said something like, "don't call me buddy! Call me Leah!"
The tups speech has been up for discussion a lot and I found them to be pretty articulate and appropriate for their age on this episode!
I liked it, but it's not one of the ones I would watch a couple of times. I liked seeing the studio, it looked small. J&K had everything under control and they managed everything like it had been done many times. Kate seems like she's getting used to handling so many with more ease. She was so organized and stayed calm. She was very hand's on in tonight's episode, but it will get no notice from bashers. She appears to be letting go of some of her crash moments and handled sticky kids like it was okay.
I do wonder why Hannah's candy was saved for her.
They really complimented each other on the couch. I liked how they reassured each other. Kate might be more relaxed about their marriage since they renewed their vows. I noticed Jon made sure he finished what he was saying after Kate interrupted. It was all without Kate doing the stuff that irks me.
I have always thought it odd that Beth evaporated. It's apparent to me that there relationship has been severed. Sort of a sticky situation since they want to sell the book
Correct me if I am wrong, but wasn't there a lot of chatting about the fact when J&K did these talk shows, there was a distinct lack of talk about the book?
How did their appearance on the talks be all about their book tour?
I liked this episode. A few cute moments (I loved Hannah correcting Jon regarding the taxis - it's fun to see Hannah have some attitude since she often seems meeker and quieter than the other girls), and it was interesting to see Kate's level-headed attitude towards the interviews, etc. - it's work. It wasn't the most fascinating episode ever, but I thought it was pretty good.
Boy, the GWOP site already has 200 postings. I don't understand why there are less postings on this site. I believe by them requiring (starting this thurs.) people to post a name is a good idea. I never understood why someone would want to choose "anonymous" in the first place.
I actually did not watch tonight's episode. I just chose to watch another show instead.
I did read (on the GWOP site) someone commenting about a lollipop incident. I truly believe that Kate just gets into this zone where she reacts in what is a stressful situation for her and completely forgets about her surroundings. Perhaps that could be something that she could work on. Stop and think before reacting.
I loved this episode! So cute. But remember towards the end when all the kids were in the garage? There tons of boxes stacked up, showing that they might be moving!
Merryway - that was my only "gripe" about this episode also. Kate clearly saved Hannah's candy and actually had saved her wrapper; not so for the others. Oh, the favorite child :-) All in all the episode did show Kate not having meltdowns or any of the children. I loved Alexis telling Joel not to call her Buddy, Call me Alexis....too cute. But after this show you can't tell me they have anything left to show - come on, it's over - Please stop and leave on a high note.
Oops - I see by other posters that it was Leah who said don't call her Buddy. I still get those two confused. Either which one - it was adorable.
Either the Gosselins,their production crew, and all others involved in this show don't get it or they don't care. Just a few things that stand out in this episode.
- Where is Beth Carson? It is
as if she has been vaporized.
This woman and her family
opened their home and their
hearts to this family.
- Kate saying something to the
effect of "It is nice to get
away for a few days"?? What
about NC, San Diego, and
Hawaii?
-Hannah, Hannah, Hannah.......
........
-Kate saying something like, I
like to use special rewards
for these trips... such as
broadway shows. Makes the
children seem more like
trained performers to me.
Jon and Kate continually speak of how much work all these promotional trips are and just how "normal" it is for them. But, what attracted me to the show was the day to day life filmed in the beginning, the show in my opinion
is not the one I go hooked on and perhaps this is what sparks the much heated discussions.
I confess that I do post on both sites although very rarely does my post go through on the other site - I'm not a hater. Don't get me wrong, J&K do really tick me off sometimes but.. Someone was making fun of Kate for wearing hip-huggers and her "love-handles". I for one thought Kate looked great (except for that hair-do!!!) and posted a comment defending her - never made it through. Did anyone else think Kate looked great in her little low-cut jeans. I'm the same size as Kate but from my c-section and 5 different abdominal surgeries I cannot get my "pouch" into a pair of low risers so I think if you can - do it. Especially after 8 babies, regardless of her free surgery she has to be doing something to keep that tummy flat. I still think Jon looks great and for some reason he really has been sitting taller in the couch interviews.
Boy, the GWOP site already has 200 postings. I don't understand why there are less postings on this site
In my mind, it is not a popularity contest. Each site serves the needs of the people that want to post.
That being said, I think that there is a very interesting book to be written about the Gosselin blogging world. Probably far more interesting than the Gosselin's themselves.
Nina Bell, I agree that a book about the Gosselin blogging world would be more interesting. However, the book that would be most informative (although I'm sure will never be written)would be penned by the production crew.
Nina Bell - not a bad idea, seriously. Honestly, if a book were written just taking posts from various sites on the same topic, like one of their episodes and compare the various posts from different sites. Wow - that would be amazing. After Monday's show I look at both sites and see how differently the posters view it and boy is there a difference, whereas something might be a minor event and it's blown way out of proportion. Sometimes I wonder if I'm watching the same episode and I actually have to go back and watch scenes again because of what they've written - like Kate's "love handles" last night. What the heck were they talking about??? Anyway that would be an awesome read, just to list the episode and the differences these posters see and how they write about it. I'd buy a copy!!!
Ruth,
I imagine that will come out down the road. Someone will figure out how to get around their confidentiality contract.
Weed, I am not a writer or I would probably attempt it. I am sure the mods and owners of all of these other blogs have as many or more "behind the blog" stories than I do that would make it an interesting read.
I knew people would be all over the sucker thing. Or is it "suckergate"? I know that if I were taking my 2 to have pictures made and someone gave them suckers I would take them too. I think a lot of the people bitching about it would do the same thing. Who wants to take 8 sticky kids on a talk show? Seriously. If they were to go on with dirty faces and sticky slobber stains on their clothes people would complain about them being dirty. Really, the complaints get dumber by the episode.
Kate clearly saved Hannah's candy and actually had saved her wrapper; not so for the others.
I thought they all had suckers on the bus to central park? Did I miss something?
For what its worth, I did notice that Hannah had more of a blow pop sucker and the other kids all had the Caramel Apple ones (which are completely wonderful unless you get your teeth stuck in the caramel!) It seems like they were able to choose, and Hannah picked the one which made less of a mess. It could be that she was the only kid not to fight Kate on giving up a sucker, so thus the reward was hers got wrapped up for enjoyment later instead of thrown out. That is what I have done in the past with kids I nanny for- if you respond the right way and are cooperative, you get rewards. If you complain and throw a fit, the nice thing you have gets put away.
Just what I gleaned from the situation-- it seems like 'suckergate' (haha!!) is really just a way for them (those 'haters' who are constantly finding fault) to feel better about themselves instead of admit Jon and Kate are making positive changes for their kids...
Lizabeth,
Suckergate, now that is funny!
I thought they all had suckers on the bus to central park? Did I miss something?
The poster was trying to relate that the promise to save the candy was made to Hannah only. Kate said that.
Weed
kate also had some liposuction at that time so that helped Im sure.
can someone explain to me why people add "gate" to the end? like suckergate (hilarious by the way) or joelgate, etc.
If this book was written for the kids I suspect its going to raise more questions than J&K might care to answer.
Where is the Kate's mother mentioned in the book?
Hannah is the favorite?
Where is the co-author?
I think my posting here is going to end. I must have upset some, because when I answered questions, I received no response.
But I have a couple questions for some of you. Why is the term hater used here any different than sheeple used on the other site?
What is worse? People at GWOP watching to pick out things to nit-pick on. Or people here watching to see what GWOP'ers are going to nit-pick on.
I think fair and balanced is in the eye of the poster.
Lizabeth you just dont seem to get the point Kate made about bonding with Hannah. She is her favorite by her own admission. Forget whatever else is said, on another forum. She said it, we see evidence of it on almost every show. But, they arent my kids so when they start asking about it that will be a job delegated to J&K.
My point being we each see what we want to see. Im not here to change that at all, just to discuss what we see.
T-bag, the "gate" comes from the Nixon days of Watergate. A group of people early on started calling scenes "gate." The first one I can remember was pottygate, from the tups using the potties.
I hope that helps.
I wouldn’t call it “sucker gate” but the kids were going into the studios and they were cleaning the kids up and J&K were tossing all the suckers except Hannah’s. She asked Jon if he still had her wrapper and said good (I’m paraphrasing here). But it was obvious, at least to me, that Hannah’s would have been saved regardless of sticky-ness. She favors Hannah and even admitted that she bonded with Hannah first and that’s why she tends to favor her. I understand Kate’s explanation of bonding with Hannah first but the favoritism she shows is hard for me to watch sometimes. Especially with the little boys – it hurts my heart so I can’t imagine what the little ones feel. And in respond to Lizabeth that if you respond the right way you get rewards, okay – I’ll buy that but this was not the situation. They were tossing suckers to get cleaned up to go on air and Hannah’s was saved!! Kate had said that she had organic suckers in her purse but the office assistant gave them the ones they had there. So I don’t see it as being rewarded for being cooperative. We all read more into these situations that what’s seen on screen but IMO Hannah’s was being saved because it was Hannah’s. Period. Also, IMO Hannah isn’t the most cooperative child in the bunch – I feel she is becoming a little mouthy and snarky in her responses to both adults and the other children and that could very well be in response to knowing that she is the favorite and mommy does overlook her indiscretions.
Thanks NC resident - I had forgotten about the lipo but still she had those procedures done at least 2 years ago and she's done a good job of keeping it off. And thanks for trying to get my point across about the sucker - it had nothing to do with being cooperative and getting a reward with your sucker being saved. It was Hannah's. Kate has admitted to what we see as favoritism being the result of bonding with her first. It's okay - we get it, but I'm sure to the other children it's a tough pill to swallow and they are getting old enough to realize what Kate's doing. Always carrying Hannah, letting her sit in her lap, whenever they separate for safety or rides - it's always Kate and Hannah. We see so much of it on screen - can you image how much we DON'T see off screen. Like I said (IMO) it's gotta be a tough pill to swallow.
Oh no, not another “gate”! :)
There could have been several reasons why Hannah's sucker was saved. Kate could have made a promise, Hannah could have just started that one, etc. I would hope that Kate and Hannah's bond doesn't lead to special privileges. Kate has been shown loving on and carrying all the children, but we see Hannah being held the most. This sucker incident isn't enough to convince me that Hannah is treated differently other than being held more often. I give Kate credit for knowing her children well (except when she took Mady's bear to her ear piercing, I knew how that was going to go. But that's a new mom mistake). My first thought was there might be more about Hannah's needs than we know. Pure speculation, but that was what popped into my head.
I think it's cute how they go and do all this fabulous stuff, but the suckers are the treats.
I think a book about the blogging world of J&K would be interesting. People's reaction and the background drama are more fascinating than the show itself.
I can't believe people are griping about them being driven to NYC. Who would want to drive there with a huge bus and eight kids?
I'm going to give Kate a mulligan on the wrapper thing. If you look at the episode, the other kids suckers were in clear wrappers that were ripped off. Not the kind that will re wrap around. Hannah's was the only one that had the white wrap around style wrapper and thus the only one to be saved. Would I have only saved one and not the others? Prob not, but that's just me. I don't see Kate in a bad light over it. Sometimes people get in the habit of something and don't even realize what they are doing.
My youngest sibling almost died when he was 4 months old and my mom has coddled him ever since. He is now a 37 year old who is still the favored with my mom. It never hurt me or my sister. We got it. We were never neglected or not loved. We just noticed that our mom had a deeper bond with him because of what happened.
I view Kate having a bond with Hannah and neither condemn or approve of it either way. It's their business and I don't see any of the other children lacking for affection from her.
Ruthe said... "Where is Beth Carson? It is as if she has been vaporized."
This isn't and has never been the "Beth Carson Show". I doubt your average J&K viewer not involved in the blogging world is pining for her return (or even noticed that she has "vaporized.") To me, she was just another of the extended family and friends who appeared more frequently in the first two seasons of the show. I like Beth fine, but I didn't watch the show for her. Same for Jodi, Nana Janet, etc.
On another matter, I didn't understand your "Hannah, Hannah, Hannah" reference until I read on and saw some other's comments. In my opinion, many are seeing what they WANT to see. I watched last night's show and I didn't see anything about a sucker being saved for Hannah. I am not doubting it happened, I just think it's very interesting what you happen to notice and comment on.
A couple of posters have stated either directly or indirectly that Kate has "admitted that Hannah is her favorite." Puleez. She has said nothing of the sort. In her book, she states that she bonded with Hannah first. Hannah was out of the hospital first and Hannah responded to human touch and cuddling more than the others at first. Kate also said at another point, that she has felt that Hannah "needed her more." Hannah appears to be the kind of kid who clings to her mom's side a bit and needs reassurance from Kate before trying new things. It appears the others may not need this as much.
Different personalities - different parenting style. It doesn't mean Kate "loves" Hannah more. She loves her differently and tries to meet her particular needs. No easy feat when you are trying to balance the needs of 7 other children. I am sure there are some who know they could do it better, however.
Weed said...Someone was making fun of Kate for wearing hip-huggers and her "love-handles".
I would take Kate's "love handles" (along with her "enormous ass") any day of the week. So she had some "help" after carrying 6 babies at once. As someone else pointed out, it's been two years since the surgery. Very few women keep the figure she has without working at it.
We get it - you don't like Kate. Calling her fat just makes YOU look jealous, however.
My last comment on the sucker incident, promise. When entering the building to do the show - Kate told the kids she saw a sign that no lollipops were allowed and they had to throw them away - but kept Hannah's.
Also in regards to Merryway and her statement of "I can't believe people are griping about them being driven to NYC. Who would want to drive there with a huge bus and eight kids?" - they drove to Florida and to NC with a trailer hitched on. Now granted - NYC is way more congested and I'm not gonna gripe about them using a bus service but I honestly think they say these things to take light off the fact that these are freebies offered by TLC/Figure 8. One big problem I have with J&K - own it, you get freebies, please stop trying to worm out of it. Just own it and say you're thankful that you didn't have to drive into NYC and that you were provided with alternative transportation.
Merryway,
I don't think the sucker was the only treat the kids got!
Let's see...Central Park carriage ride, although they have done that before, a good romp thru the park-but hey, even Jon said, "they deserve that"...they earned it.
Of all the statements made last night that one stayed on my radar. What do you all think he meant? Earned it because if it weren't for the tups they would not have been there that day, doing TV shows, Kate being interviewed. Or was it because their behavior was outstanding, because I don't think it was.
Why the 8 of them can not sit quietly for 10 minutes astounds me. Truly this is not a difficult task and is not expecting too much from this age range.
Kate's calm demeanor handling all the kids....what, did we watch different versions? She seemed to be wound tighter than a spring and at any moment would self-implode.
She couldn't stand the kids even being too close when they were wanting a drink. Which makes me think, do Fox and Friends, GMA, NOT have water and juice available for their guests? Kate creates so much work for herself.
And the whole lollipop fiasco. I guess if you have to bribe your kids into what she considers as good behavior, you give them a sticky, drooly sucker at 9 am. HELLOOO Kate, how about a cracker!
I did get a kick out of their couch session. They seemed more open and honest, and they both look good.
I just find the G's tacky and distasteful in everyway. I think the kids are growing up with a sense of entitlement that will make some of them unlikeable.
What we see is definitly a working family who have struck it rich on the premise of being a struggling family with multiples.
Sometimes I just go, "YUCK"!
I would love to take credit for 'suckergate' but that was all hbic8u :)!
nc resident, I do know of Kate's admission in the book to her obvious bonding and love of Hannah. I understand that completely, but I also know that many people make it seem as though she never does anything with or for the other children. We all know that is not true. The problem I see is that whenever Hannah gets *any* treatment- preferential or just normal "I'm your mom and will show you love in this way"- it is blown out of proportion into Kate neglecting the others to care for her favorite. From what I have seen, that is not the complete story- yes, she bonded first with Hannah and has a strong connection with her, but that does not mean she loves her other children less.
As I mentioned, it showed Hannah as having a different kind of sucker, and MonicaW pointed out her type had a wrapper that they were able to save. I don't want to split hairs here or cause people to get up in arms over this, but I did feel from what I saw that the situation was not the "Hannah always gets what she wants and no one else is loved" type which GWoP paints it as.
We don't know details about promises made or anything, so I'd rather err on the side of giving Kate a break after she'd been up super early and had 8 sticky kids to clean up before a TV appearance!
Oh, and thank you to the people who mentioned Leah being adorable with her "Call me Leah!" line. That was too sweet :)! I also loved when Kate was pushing 5 of the tups on the tire swing, while Collin got some alone time with Daddy. Seemed like a nice, relaxing afternoon after a crazy morning!
Anya - I did not call Kate fat. I was defending her by saying how wonderful she looked. I started my post off by saying that the other site was saying Kate looked horrible with hip-huggers and love-handles. Please do not think I was implying she looked anything but fantastic, although I did make a snarky comment about that hair-do, sorry about that but it just couldn't be help :-)
I read the book and I don't believe that Kate said "Hannah is my favorite" but rather that they have a special bond with one another because Hannah was the first baby that Kate was able to hold and snuggle. If any of you are moms you will understand how important those first moments or hours are when you have a baby. Can you imagine not being able to hold your baby/babies for hours or days? So for Kate to "finally" hold just even one of her babies had to be VERY special!
The issue about the lollipops...I haven't read any posts at other blogs but if they are going to term that lolligate they are really stretching it! I thought what Kate was completely appropriate.
As far as the episode goes I really liked it.
Two things I thought were interesting were that the blogs were all a buzz about how miserable Cara looked on Good Morning America etc. In this episode we don't see her having a horrible time at all. They didn't show her having a melt down or being grumpy.
Also, did anyone else notice the garage stacked with packing boxes when they returned late at night? Not that it matters, but I thought it was interesting.
I too am beginning to wonder why Beth isn't even mentioned. I keep hoping that we will see Beth again or at least get some explanation. But that is just my curiosity getting the best of me.
My mom and I have a more special bond than she does with my brother and two sisters, but it's never been a problem. My siblings are secure enough of their place in the family to know that just because my mom and I have more in common does not mean she loves them any less at all.
I see it more as Hannah is the needier of the 6 younger ones, not that she's favored. Have you ever noticed that it's Hannah who seeks out Kate, not the other way around?
Anya you totally misrepresented what Weed said. Ya need read her thread again.
I for one thought Kate looked great (except for that hair-do!!!) and posted a comment defending her - never made it through. Did anyone else think Kate looked great in her little low-cut jeans. I'm the same size as Kate but from my c-section and 5 different abdominal surgeries I cannot get my "pouch" into a pair of low risers so I think if you can - do it.
But so you know one guarantee of lipo is that the fat in the area removed, NEVER returns to that same area.
And since you went there I will too. Yeah we get it you LOVE Kate. Worship her in fact. We are nothing but haters.
Liz,
Exactly... Different wrapper.
Oh well, Anya is right....people will see what they want to see. Kate could be Mother Teresa in real life and people would vilify her due to A. Being on tv, B. Getting "freebies, C. Her hair and other non important issues.
I am not a huge Kate fan not because she has done something wrong, I watch for the kids.
Now if we want to talk about a reality star that does get on the nerves...Matt Roloff of Little People Big World. I would go Kung Pao on that man if he were my husband for all the changes he makes. Get one project done at a time already.
Ok, I feel better now. Thanks Ladies. :)
nc resident
Absolutely not one comment did not make it through today. I have posted all comments. So maybe it was lost in cyber world and you would like to re-submit it.
I know I said I'd stop and with this I will 'cause I really need to get some work done - it's been one of those days. I know Kate loves all her children and I don't mean to imply otherwise. I don't know how they edit the show but last night's episode was a Kate/Hannah love fest and not the first time. The producers do that in many of the shows - Kate showing favoritism towards Hannah. IMO she does need to lighten up on the boys and Alexis but then again - it does have alot to do with how the producers decide to edit the show and what we see and don't see. To get us all riled up, boost the ratings, create the brew-ha-ha(spelling??) And with that I'm done. Thanks for listening to me all day :-)
I agree that Kate's admission in the book of bonding with Hannah first does not necessarily mean that Hannah is favored. People see favoritism in the most ridiculous things - on "the other site" a poster mentions that Hannah is the first one off of the bus when they arrive at home at the end of the episode, which: 1) I don't think is true; I believe we saw Leah getting off first, then one of the boys, followed by Kate, followed by Hannah and 2) so what? Getting of the bus first would be evidence of favoritism? In what universe?
It's been stated before, but we really don't know the particulars regarding Hannah's lollipop being saved. We don't know that *none* of the other lollipops were saved, because we did not specifically see each of the other seven thrown away. Furthermore, I believe the kids were given more lollipops (or given back their first lollipops) later - I recall seeing Cara on the bus later with a lollipop.
I can't believe I'm arguing about this. :-)
I don't approve of parental favoritism, at all, but I think it's realistic to expect that parents are going to have different relationships with different kids. If Hannah is clingy and Collin is not, sure, you'll see Hannah being held a lot more than Collin. That does not mean she is favored; just that J&K relate to her differently because of her needs and her personality.
People who prefer not to hear complaints about GWoP can skip the following paragraph:
I've never seen so many women carp so much about a hairstyle. Catty, petty and stupid, IMO. Also, they won't publish certain comments that they deem too pro-Gosselin, but they'll publish a poster's opinion that Hannah will grow up to be a bitch. Lovely. I've said it before - the hostility directed at that site to a FOUR YEAR OLD GIRL, solely because of some perceived favoritism that she has no control over, is absolutely revolting. Many of those women should be ashamed of themselves, but obviously they have no shame. All while trumpeting their superiority over the supposedly odious Kate. The meanness and lack of self-awareness boggles the mind.
Weed said...Anya - I did not call Kate fat.
Weed. So sorry. I should have been more clear. I understood your point completely.
By "you" I was referring to certain individuals on another message board who have made negative comments about Kate's body in the past and continue to do so even when it's clear she is trim and fit. It's absurd and the only reason I can think they would make such comments is jealousy. Obviously, YOU (Weed) were presenting the opposite view.
Thanks for allowing me to clarify what I meant.
Those who don't want to hear bad things about GWOP beware of the next paragraph.
Guinevere,
I totally agree. I can't believe a bunch of grown women are sitting around saying some of the things they say there! I can't help but think that if I were Hannah (maybe not at 4, but later), I'd be really hurt to see some of the things that they say in the name of "protecting the children."
nc resident said..."Anya you totally misrepresented what Weed said. Ya need read her thread again.
And since you went there I will too. Yeah we get it you LOVE Kate. Worship her in fact. We are nothing but haters."
NC Resident. Please see my apology to Weed. I was less than clear in my language, but it was not my intention to "misrepresent" her words. I understood what she was saying from the get-go.
I have never called you a hater so I am not sure where that is coming from. There is no doubt in mind that such haters exist in the Gosselin blogging world, however. How else to explain posters who call Kate "fat" or joke about her untimely demise?
I hate to burst your bubble, but I neither "love" nor "worship" Kate. It would be more accurate to say that:
a) I kind of "get her"
b) I like her about 75% of the time and
c) I think the attacks on her often say more about the posters posting them than they do about Kate herself.
nc resident
I understand now, you were quoting Weed. Her comment did not go through at GWoP.
This is getting confusing, LOL
Nina we understand each other almost LOL. I dont know how to use the HTML tags, so thats my bad.
And since you went there I will too. Yeah we get it you LOVE Kate. Worship her in fact. We are nothing but haters.
I didn't see where you called Kate fat, so why are you so offended?
What's so wrong with worshipping Kate anyway? I only leave the shrine to comment here(it's not safe to leave all those candles buring unattended).
And the whole lollipop fiasco. I guess if you have to bribe your kids into what she considers as good behavior, you give them a sticky, drooly sucker at 9 am. HELLOOO Kate, how about a cracker
Kate didn't give them the suckers. Matter of fact, I think Kate said something like "Kids don't need suckers this early".
I just find the G's tacky and distasteful in everyway. I think the kids are growing up with a sense of entitlement that will make some of them unlikeable.
I know this has been said a million times, but really, if you find them so disgusting, why do you watch the show? You went on and on in your comment about how repulsive they are, why contribute to their ratings?
Seriously, I'm asking.
I was not offended, just defended what Weed said, like you are defending Anya. Dont worry bout those candles though, word has it Kate insists on drip proof. So the shrine is safe. LOL
Kate didn't give them the suckers. Matter of fact, I think Kate said something like "Kids don't need suckers this early".
Yes she did. She had given the kids her own "organic" lollipops and someone heard her say "lollipop" and brought the kids even more lollipops, that to Kate's dismay, were not organic.
I turned on the tape and Cara also kept her sucker while in the studio. There is also a little jump in film when Kate asks Jon if he has her paper and Hannah is reaching at her sucker Jon is holding. It doesn't look continuous so they may have cut something that happened.
Fiona, you're right. Kate did mention that the carriage ride, park, etc were rewards.
As far as the kids sitting still for 10 minutes. I'm sure they're capable, a studio atmosphere would probably jazz them up and make it more difficult for the interviews.
I don't think Kate is wound as tight as she used to be. IMO she is handling things much better than she used to. I've been surprised several times at how well she seems to be managing. I feel she might be able to relax more financially, more secure in her marriage, and coming into her own as a mom. It takes a while to figure the whole parenting thing out.
I would also be telling them to not crowd. Mom's have the most important job and it's important that your kids recognize your needs also. She said it nicely.
I'm not sure about their sense of entitlement. I do think their life is quite the fantasy right now. I think J&K realize this part is only temporary and are trying to take advantage of all while it is being offered. I think it'll be remembered as a wonderful time in their life. There lifestyle has gone up and I don't think it's going to be that must of an adjustment when the excessive trips, etc. come to a stop.
Their personal life seems okay to me, it's the affects of publicizing it that I have a conflict with.
Yes she did. She had given the kids her own "organic" lollipops and someone heard her say "lollipop" and brought the kids even more lollipops, that to Kate's dismay, were not organic.
I think what was said could be interpreted more than one way. I think Kate said she'd brought the organic lollipops as one of the snacks/treats she would give the kids. I don't know that she said she'd given them to the kids already. I'd have to watch it again to be sure, but again, I don't think it was clear one way or the other.
Also, I didn't perceive any "dismay" on Kate's part that the GMA lollipops weren't organic. It seems to me that if Kate had had a problem with the kids being given the non-organic lollipops by the GMA staffer, she would have nixed it. People would have said how rude she was, of course, but we do know that Kate speaks her mind, so I don't think she necessarily had a problem with the non-organic nature of those lollipops. I didn't attach a huge significance to Kate appending the modifier "organic" to the word "lollipops" in this context.
I thought that Kate just noticed how sticky the kids were getting when it was rather early in the morning and they still needed to be presentable for Fox and Friends. Lollipops at 9 a.m. does seem a little gross and unnecessary, though not ultimately a big deal either way.
As far as the kids sitting still for 10 minutes. I'm sure they're capable, a studio atmosphere would probably jazz them up and make it more difficult for the interviews.
I don't know that it's *that* easy for that number of children to sit quietly in unfamiliar circumstances. I think kids can sometimes be made to do so in pre-school, but if you take them on a field trip or something similar, many of them would probably be hyper. It *is* hard for a lot of 4-year-olds to sit still and be quiet for a long period of time. I think it depends on the kid, but I think if one has raised one kid or two, they may not realize that the sextuplets' behavior is well within the range of normal behavior for their age.
I would also be telling them to not crowd. Mom's have the most important job and it's important that your kids recognize your needs also. She said it nicely.
I totally agree. I saw that as a disciplining moment, too - Kate was letting the kids know how they needed to behave in order to get what they wanted. The things people find to complain about!
I'm not sure about their sense of entitlement. I do think their life is quite the fantasy right now. I think J&K realize this part is only temporary and are trying to take advantage of all while it is being offered. I think it'll be remembered as a wonderful time in their life. There lifestyle has gone up and I don't think it's going to be that must of an adjustment when the excessive trips, etc. come to a stop.
I don't think anyone's life is a fantasy from the inside, when they are just living it. The Gosselin kids live in a normal house, go to school or pre-school, eat, sleep, etc. - all like "normal" people. I think that a lot of their life is pretty pedestrian, but then there are these moments - like the book tour or the trips or the filming - that are different from the norm. The family would be different from the norm and would invite public comment (to a lesser degree, sure) even if they weren't on TV.
Yes, it's concerning that the kids may have difficulty adjusting once things change. But I think that's just one of the trade-offs of the show. I've said it before, but there would be many downsides, presumably, to the Gosselins living a more "normal" life that would likely involve J&K working away from the home a lot, not being able to spend much time together as a family, and leaving their kids in the care of someone else. All probably while barely scraping by. I'm not saying that there's anything wrong with *that* choice - it would just be a different choice that would have different rewards and drawbacks. I don't think I've ever seen anyone say that *everything* about the show and the life that it's given the Gosselin kids is positive. I don't think that would be a realistic way to look at the situation.
Production can definitely do some fixing with the quick short shots they use plus they drop the clips' audio constantly. I forgot to mention that Maddy also seems to be blowing her mom a raspberry behind her back while Kate's walking away with the suckers. It's not my kid so I can laugh!
Anya,
In response to your comment, because both Jon and Kate stated that this was a promotional tour for "their" book I expected that Beth as co-author would either participate directly, or at least be mentioned. I am well aware whose show it is.
"I think what was said could be interpreted more than one way."
So true for just about everything in the show. The bottom line is that we all know editing is involved, and we can only see what they want us to see. Just as most of the "haters" claims cannot be proven, nor can the "sheeples" claims be proven. We are only allowed to see little glimpses, however skewered they may be.
Are we all taking this show too seriously? My husband says YES! because I sit on all the sites and read him bits and pieces. Should we just be enjoying the show for what it is?
Yes she did. She had given the kids her own "organic" lollipops and someone heard her say "lollipop" and brought the kids even more lollipops, that to Kate's dismay, were not organic.
Kate said something about having organic lollipops in her purse for them and that a staff member overheard and thought it was okay to give them to the kids.
I enjoyed reading the back and forth in the comments this afternoon. Every view point is represented! I love it...
Thanks, everyone.
To me, it looks like Hannah is the favorite. I completely understand why someone would think she is. My daughter and husband think she's the favorite, and they are not GWoPpers.
I don't think she's the favorite. I think she's the clingiest. I can tell you there were moments when my kids were young when the "clinger" was the least favorite. Not that I really had favorites. I can't remember Kate shooing her other children away just to hold Hannah, either (though I haven't watched all episodes.) I think Kate's just responding to Hannah's need. The others are more independent.
Kate looked fabulous on last night's episode.
So true for just about everything in the show. The bottom line is that we all know editing is involved, and we can only see what they want us to see. Just as most of the "haters" claims cannot be proven, nor can the "sheeples" claims be proven. We are only allowed to see little glimpses, however skewered they may be.
I believe in erring on the side of giving people the benefit of the doubt when you don't know one way or another. I know that can be hard when you don't like someone, and I'm not saying I always practice what I preach, but I think that's the only morally defensible position to take.
I do wonder about the editing. Is it just a coincidence, for instance, that Hannah is perceived as the favorite, and the editing includes Kate specifically saying to save Hannah's lollipop, but not anyone else's? It could be that small moments like that are meaningless and we give them significance due to our own preconceptions. Or it could be that the producers are screwing with us because it keeps the ratings up. I lean towards the latter explanation, but it's probably a combination of the two.
Are we all taking this show too seriously? My husband says YES! because I sit on all the sites and read him bits and pieces. Should we just be enjoying the show for what it is?
I do enjoy the show for what it is. I enjoy talking about the controversy, mostly. Occasionally I get turned off by the ugliness and unfairness of some of the criticisms, or the hypocrisy of those doing the criticizing. I try to step back when that happens. A TV show is not worth getting upset over.
Or it could be that the producers are screwing with us because it keeps the ratings up. I lean towards the latter explanation...
Oh, I agree. They screw with every reality TV audience.
I just read the GWoP recap by Threefarmers, and it's mean. I don't understand the animosity this woman has for Hannah Gosselin. I have never called anyone a "hater" here, but I can certainly see why others would. That is NOT a child advocacy site. I'll skip the comments today.
ugh!
For my own health I need to stop reading GWOP. It freaks me out a little that a grown woman has that much hate for a 4 year old.
Guin said "I believe in erring on the side of giving people the benefit of the doubt when you don't know one way or another. I know that can be hard when you don't like someone, and I'm not saying I always practice what I preach, but I think that's the only morally defensible position to take."
Absolutely spot on.
T-Bag said
"ugh!
For my own health I need to stop reading GWOP. It freaks me out a little that a grown woman has that much hate for a 4 year old."
Nice, real classy, GWOP. That moral high ground you claim is crumbling to pieces right underneath you.
HBIC8U,
Actually Kate brought her organic suckers for the kids...so maybe they had already had one or two-don't know, don't care.
As for Kate, if she did not want her kids to have a sucker, I am quite sure she could have made that known.
I think it was all about keeping them in hand.
I really dislike the comment-"so why do you watch the show..." but I will answer.
We all watch it for different reasons. I watch mostly to see the cute kids growing, see what they are starting to pick up on. I also watch to see what kind of foolishness will come out of Jon or Kate's mouth.
It is entertainment, even if I do groan at my TV on occasion. I watch to see what hot comment will trigger the other crowd. And while sometimes I find there comments amusing, other times I am repulsed, as you say.
The way they pick on Hannah is sad. The way they pick apart Kate, who is still a human being last time I checked is shocking.
I chuckle by the commenters who say Kate shouldn't wear a certain type of jeans and wonder if they aren't just jealous that they can't squeeze their own fat ass into a cute pair of jeans.
This show is so much more than any other series I have ever watched. There are so many facets that it has turned into a psychology class.
Now I sure would be worried if someone still said they watched because Kate is super organized, or something equally lame...so, it is your turn, why do you watch???
I havent seen this episode yet- you all have me curious to see it!I havent missed a monday night episode in ages.
Saint said...
I just read the GWoP recap by Threefarmers, and it's mean. I don't understand the animosity this woman has for Hannah Gosselin. I have never called anyone a "hater" here, but I can certainly see why others would. That is NOT a child advocacy site. I'll skip the comments today.
December 2, 2008 1:40 PM
---
I think that woman is seriously lacking something in her own life that the GWOPPERS fill for her.
It is very sad.
Merryway,
Do I see an improvement in Kate outwardly? Yes, I do...thus the analogy that she was wound tight. It does appear that she was trying very hard. As I said, I think she makes things harder on herself...why even allow a sucker early in the a.m., by herself or anyone else. How about, after the show, then she wouldn't have to worry about the sticky.
Same thing with carting a cooler. They aren't babies, and can certainly make it to the next destination without a drink.
And sorry, but with all the photo ops these kids do, the public appearances, I absolutely think the kids should be expected to sit nicely for 10 minutes.
Not much is expected for those who aren't taught better.
I had another thought I would like to share...
Jon mentions how much work they do, how this is the hardest job ever.
What does that mean for the kids? Are they working too? Not as hard, harder???
It is a family job, right?
And what is it again that they do?
Fiona,
I watch because of this blog and all the blog drama from the fall. AND there is nothing else on at the same time that appeals to me. Sometimes I miss, though. Also, I live near enough to the Gosselins to have done all the local things they do, and my kids enjoy seeing the places they went to as little ones. I sure wish I lived in Hawaii though! :)
Why the 8 of them can not sit quietly for 10 minutes astounds me. Truly this is not a difficult task and is not expecting too much from this age range.
Can you please tell me how to get them to sit quietly for that long? Truly? I teach a preschool class at my church, and cannot accomplish this. I teach much older children every day and they are able to be quiet. But those preschoolers? Holy cow!!
The only way to get them all quiet is to really get them sucked into a book or a good story. Even then, there are still a few stragglers rolling on the floor, trying to tell me about their cat, etc.
Jon mentions how much work they do, how this is the hardest job ever.
What does that mean for the kids? Are they working too? Not as hard, harder???
Fiona,
I say this as someone who would like, for the sake of certain kids, to see the show end or be pared back. Jon and Kate do more than what the kids do. They have additional traveling and talks at other venues. They do scheduling and negotiating, meeting with PR people, additional interviews, the things that go on behind the scenes. They are adults, yes. The children should not have to work hard for a living, yes. But it is an exaggeration, IMO, to suggest that the children work harder. I understand your point, I think, but the true answer to your question of whether the kids work harder is no.
I know the show is about the Gosselins, but it would have been nice to acknowledge Beth when talking about the book. But, maybe that was editted out so they don't have to talk about who she is. I do think the editting is aimed at keeping "controversy" going.
Fiona, in regards to how much work they said it is, I think they try to make sure it's not stressful for the kids and rightfully so carry the load. With the scheduling, organizing, prep and individual speaking engagements, etc.
I do think Kate is the type to make more work for herself.
I really hesitate on judging the kids because I haven't seen them 24/7 just the glimpses which show some continuity of behavior. I would hope they could sit still in an everyday setting, they seem to when they're eating. They're excited and lots of people at these shoots and shows. It's harder when they're siblings. Because it's brothers and sisters, there's always one who will poke, giggle, and get it started. Personally, I just wouldn't jump to that conclusion.
Guin, I would be surprised if J&K thought felt there life was pedestrian right now. They are surging in their popularity, trips, and publicity right now and I guess they have already moved into their new home. I would think that even J&K see their life as surreal at this point. Life seems to have been good them.
Also--I loved the shot of Cara sharing her lollipop with Leah. Too cute!
Guin said: I do enjoy the show for what it is. I enjoy talking about the controversy, mostly. Occasionally I get turned off by the ugliness and unfairness of some of the criticisms, or the hypocrisy of those doing the criticizing. I try to step back when that happens. A TV show is not worth getting upset over.
Very well said! At first I loved the show, now I love watching so I can go and see what everyone is saying.
I also agree about giving people the benefit of the doubt, though I do admit that I can be a tad too cynical sometimes.
"Florida Mom said...I know the show is about the Gosselins, but it would have been nice to acknowledge Beth when talking about the book."
Sure. I agree. I guess I am just not sure how much Beth contributed to the book. There are some who seem to think that she wrote the whole darn thing and I don't think we have heard one way or another - have we? It's funny because Jon is listed as a co-author too and the whole book is written in the first person by Kate. So maybe he contributed something, but I am not sure what it is. There may have been legal reasons to include Beth's name on the book if she helped in any way with the initial writing and/or editing. Just speculation.
Scarfoot and Merryway, thanks for your insight. I haven't consistenly been around 4-year-olds in a few years, but my sense was the majority do have trouble staying still and quiet when in a group.
As to why I watch: I think the kids are adorable. I have always been interested in family dynamics and J&K actually interest me. I don't agree with every single thing they do, but I am not "bothered" to the point of agitation by anything I see. And, of course, I love talking to you all after the show to find out what others are thinking....
Im curious to see this episode...
This is totally off topic but I'm wondering if they are going to change their opening. I'm surprised they haven't for the new season....
I know I'm not following the flow of discussion because I haven't had time to read the comments before...so sorry if this comment is out in left field.
"Saint said...I just read the GWoP recap by Threefarmers, and it's mean. I don't understand the animosity this woman has for Hannah Gosselin."
I agree. It's pretty astonishing. Even if you "buy" that Hannah is the favored child, is it not a little below the belt to go after a four-year-old???
Shakes head....
nomoredrama said..."Im curious to see this episode...
This is totally off topic but I'm wondering if they are going to change their opening. I'm surprised they haven't for the new season...."
I am actually a little confused what "season" we are even in. 3 or 4?
I think a new opening would be nice. I got the current one memorized so I can recite it in my sleep! LOL
I read 3Farmers recap with my head shaking the whole time. She should be ashamed of herself and calling that site a child advocacy site is really ridiculous!! I find it so repulsive that anyone would have such disdain for a 4 year old, and have the nerve to voice it on a website! She must be sorely lacking something in her life to be so passionate....its sad.
Guin, I would be surprised if J&K thought felt there life was pedestrian right now. They are surging in their popularity, trips, and publicity right now and I guess they have already moved into their new home. I would think that even J&K see their life as surreal at this point. Life seems to have been good them.
It's not that I think they don't realize, looking at it from the outside, how different, and yes, unusual their lives have become. It's just that I imagine a lot of their time is still devoted to doing the stuff they've always done, especially in terms of taking care of their large family.
I've never been famous or been in a situation that I would call "surreal", but I think even in those heightened moments in one's life - say, maybe going through the death of a parent - you look back and can kind of marvel at how normal and yes, pedestrian things felt at the time. I mean, yes, you're aware that something big is happening, but you still have to go grocery shopping and clean the litter box (I realize the death of a parent is a pretty poor analogy, but it's the closest experience I have to heightened reality/surreality).
I'm new here (after switching from GWOP which just got too annoying) and they literally have like over 60 posts about Kate's hair.
Now it's funny that the moderators claim that they rejects comments that are repeating the same things that have already been said and yet comment after comment about "Kate's hair sucks" keeps getting let through.
When I made a post that remarking on Kate's hair makes the site look stupid and immature and will cause people to not take it seriously....my post was rejected. Actually I've never had a post go through that happened to have maybe one or two sentences not agreeing with them, even if it's a whole post about how much I dislike the G's....lol
I really dislike the comment-"so why do you watch the show..." but I will answer.
I know, I'm sure you have heard it more than once. My thing is, this has become like a book club. You have to watch the show or you have nothing to talk about. I guess I was wondering if that was the only reason you watch. I think that's what it's come down to. It seems that there are many who can't stand JandK or the show in general who still watch so they have some insight to bring to the table at the "meeting".
I don't agree with everything they do, but overall I still like them and I find the show interesting. Hopefully, if I ever get to the point where they disgust me I'll find something new to watch on Monday nights.
And sorry, but with all the photo ops these kids do, the public appearances, I absolutely think the kids should be expected to sit nicely for 10 minutes.
Not much is expected for those who aren't taught better.
For someone who thinks the kids are working, isn't it a good thing that the kids aren't being threatened into sitting still for 10 minutes like angels? To me, it would be more like work for the kids if they were told to sit still and shut up instead of being told to just hang out on the big couch for a few minutes. They aren't being forced to pose or learn lines, they are just sitting and interacting with eachother. Why is that such a bad thing?
Yeah at 4 years old very few children sit "still" for 10 minutes at a time.... especially when you have so many brothers and sisters to potentially distract/antagonize you. I taught preschool before having my own daughter and it would have been unreasonable to expect them to sit perfectly still or not make a peep for 10 minutes. I think they do very well all things considered- in my opinion if they did sit still and behave like perfect little angels some people would complain about that and be certain that Kate had threatened them all with life and limb if they weren't quiet lol. They are normal 4 year olds beahving in a normal 4 year old fashion and thats just what they should be.
Hi New Here! Welcome.
I think you will be happy to find that the majority of posters here don't have particularly strong opinions on Kate's hair one way or another. And if they do, one quick comment is usually all that's needed to express one's opinion on this very important topic!
The other site are self proclaimed "advocates" (for what I am not sure), so they have a different agenda I believe.
Keeping the hair talk to a minimum allows us to talk about much more interesting things IMO....
Off topic, but does anyone know who makes the brown shirt Kate was wearing at Central Park? I liked it.
"I realize the death of a parent is a pretty poor analogy, but it's the closest experience I have to heightened reality/surreality."
I can offer a personal experience that I think is closer to that feeling of reality/sureality that Gosselins are probably feeling now. Several years ago, my husband had a sales position that awarded the top level salespeople in each region very large (5 figure) bonuses and an annual, all expense paid trip to very expensive resorts outside the U.S. The first year he qualified, I felt like we'd won the lottery. A large bonus check every quarter, a lavish 10 day trip to Europe where everything was taken care of for us, we didn't have to do anything for ourselves. I couldn't believe it was happening to li'l ole us. The next three years we went to Hawaii, London, Barbados. Then the company was sold and the new owner eliminated all of the sales incentive programs. During those four years, our ordinary life was completely transformed, and thanks to the large commissions and bonuses he earned we were able to do things we'd never imagined. It definitely felt surreal while it was happening, and looking back on that time so many years later, it's not the ordinary aspects of our everyday life at that time that stand out, but all the extraordinary. I can easily imagine that Jon and Kate would feel their life has become surreal, and while their everyday life goes on, almost everything about it has been influenced by this show.
I enjoyed this episode and was reminded when I first went to New York and being 12 how much fun the red apple was. Central park was one of my favorite things to do there along with the carriage ride in the park. I don't think the children work in the sense of traditional work unless you think growing up is work. All the children looked like they had a great time. I think the whole "gate" thing is funny. We should call it "Katiegatie" whenever people don't agree with a decision Kate makes. I guess I was clueless about all the disagreements with this episode because I didn't even pay attention to the lollipops because I had flashbacks to my New York trips as a kid while I was watching. I thought the conversion would be on the Wii but this time it was lollipops and how Hannah is still the favorite. Oh well, it was a nice episode and I liked this weeks show.
At 4 years old, neither of my children could have sat "perfectly still" with a group of 4 year olds for 10 minutes. They are now very well-behaved 11 and almost 8 year olds.
I remain pretty neutral about J&K. I don't find either of them to be parents of the year or the anti-christ. That being said, I wish that the nasty comments about the children would stop.
I continue to be upset by the treatment Hannah is receiving on the other site tonight. Some may say that we shouldn't publicize this garbage, but I want those who ride the fence to see *why* some of us continue to harp on the utter nastiness of that site. Here goes:
*Apparently, "Hannah gets what Hannah wants". Yes, she is quite calculating for a 4-year-old, isn't she.
*Hannah is "quick as a COBRA" in her moves to keep other siblings from getting Kate's attention.
*Hannah isn't a leader.
*Hannah isn't mature.
*Hannah is the "least articulate and bright" of the group.
Yes, ladies, they are out for blood tonight and 4-years-old or not, they are going to get it.
Sickening. There's actually more, but I am done.
I'd almost like to believe that those comments about Hannah are from trolls, "poking the crazy" as they say. But sadly, I think there are people who really feel that it's okay to rip a little girl apart, for no reason other than that they resent her for being the "favorite" of someone they unreasoningly hate.
I will agree with the comments regarding the 4-year-olds sitting still - if they didn't act "natural", that would be something to criticize them (and Kate) for, too. I haven't seen them be egregiously bad in any of their appearances - they've played and talked among themselves.
Anya
Love the avatar
Anya-
About your avatar- I have both complete boxed sets of the Mr. Men and Little Miss Books! Love them. . .
I agree it's horrible how they rip on the children. They think they know each child so well from what little we've been shown. I wonder what they would have thought of my stepson at around two. His grandmother babysat and he was always jealous. One day he started saying “let me hit that baby” He was told no and explained how it was wrong for him to hit. So then he asked his grandmother to hit the baby for him. He's 23 now and doesn't go around slapping babies.
Spanglish, That sounds like it was FABULOUS!!
♥ said...
I read 3Farmers recap with my head shaking the whole time. She should be ashamed of herself and calling that site a child advocacy site is really ridiculous!! I find it so repulsive that anyone would have such disdain for a 4 year old, and have the nerve to voice it on a website! She must be sorely lacking something in her life to be so passionate....its sad.
December 2, 2008 5:20 PM
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And 3F is a second grade school teacher...sure wouldn't want her teaching my kids.
In response to those who think the kids behavior is OK on the set...I would like to say I never said they should sit perfectly still, be perfect angels or robots.
Just as they behaved at the wedding, when someone else is talking, you should not be...in that type of setting. And Cara and Mady aren't much better. Basic good manners is all I would expect...jazzy environment or not.
For someone who thinks the kids are working, isn't it a good thing that the kids aren't being threatened into sitting still for 10 minutes like angels? To me, it would be more like work for the kids if they were told to sit still and shut up instead of being told to just hang out on the big couch for a few minutes. They aren't being forced to pose or learn lines, they are just sitting and interacting with eachother. Why is that such a bad thing?
December 2, 2008 6:07 PM
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I don't think I even came close to saying that...a little over the top there, dontcha think?
looking back on that time so many years later, it's not the ordinary aspects of our everyday life at that time that stand out, but all the extraordinary.
Spanglish -
I'm just wondering if you had kids at this time and they were going with you on the trips? As an adult, I can see your point on how exciting it is. But from a kid's point of view, I'm just wondering if they miss it as much as you do.
I'm assuming for your husband to get those rewards he must work long hours with probably a lot of business travel. This isn't a judgment against you or your family - really it's not, because people need to do what they need to do, but I wonder if you've asked your kids if they would appreciate more time with Daddy vs. a 10 day trip to Europe? Sometimes I wonder if the Gosselin kids will feel that all their trips and freebies are worth the price they had to pay to get them.
3FAREMERS justification of her remarks:
ThreeFarmers said...
But what you're doing and the way you do it are only hurting the Gosselin kids, who'm everyone here says they are being exploited, blah bla blah. That is the saddest part of this whole show. This feedback they get from people who think it's their right to criticize with such a mean streak and venom. You're only hurting those kids.
The PARENTS of those children are the ones who are hurting them. I do not feel one ounce of guilt nor will I take any of the blame for the damage that Jon and Kate's decisions will inflict on those kids by insisting that the children work to support that family.
The entertainment industry is a rough one and it is even rougher because those children cannot escape the cameras in their own home. Jon and Kate are not bigger or more important than the industry in which they have CHOSEN to raise their family. The standards by which programming is judged does not change because people who are making poor decisions will it to change.
The entertainment industry and all those involved in it have been harshly criticized for as long as there have been entertainers. That is WHY children should not be raised in front of those cameras.
I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim.
12/02/2008 5:21 PM
I think this would make a good stand alone post.
Does anyone think that people who say negative things about any of the kids believe they are being mean TO the kids? I think that sometimes people think they are having a discussion and actually have a distance from what they are saying and simply believe they are stating their opinion, but not doing anyone any harm.
And then there are people who think that making negative statements about the kids is a direct and personal attack against the children.
I must confess that I am a little uncertain about how I feel about those negative statements. It might depend on how the negative statement is made.
For example, when people make statements saying something like, "Mady is (negative word here) and always will be, " it really says more about the lack of intelligence of the person making the statement than about Mady. I can't really muster up any anger for someone who is obviously (imo) ignorant. I just end up feeling pity for those sorts of posters.
imo
Kimber, I do agree with you that the statements people make which are "snarky" and hateful only serve to show who they really are as a person. I mentioned before that the way some have responded to the children and things some have said made me like the Gosselin family more. People like the posters at GWoP who spend so much time making rude remarks about how Hannah and Mady will grow up to be a bitches seem to be trying to gain approval and acceptance through being 'funny' and 'making jokes.'
I do not think these remarks personally hurt the children, but I do think that if Mady were to read what is written about her (in a matter of time she may find these sites, poor thing) that it could definitely break her spirit. I would be devastated if the comments made about Kate were made about me, whether I 'deserved' them in someones eyes or not.
As in all things, a persons true self is shown by how they handle criticism. I think Jon and Kate have shown over time to be changing their show schedule to it protects their kids more and gives more privacy. Making changes like this in a way does show they pay attention to critics, but have not succumbed to the massive amount of drama and negativity that could potentially be all consuming.
Elizabeth, I agree. Threefarmers (and the other regs at GWOP) only keep at this because it makes them feel some what special. 3Farmers most likely has no life in reality and the fact that her recaps keep getting posted (and she keeps getting validation for them) only makes her feel as if she is important and needed.
Each poster over there is only trying to "one-up" each other, and see who can tell the best joke or make the nastiest comment. I used to think they cared about the welfare of the kids, but when the ridiculous nit-picking was encouraged I realized they are just a bunch of lonely housewives with nothing better to do with themselves. It's pretty pathetic.
kimber, I do think it's hard for some to make a distinction between them being characters and real people. I remember an interview with Nancy McKeon, one of the queens from lifetime movies. She said when she is recognized a lot of women want to know if “she's okay” because they had seen her beaten, lose her baby, etc.
A lot of people like to “quarterback” their shows and trash celebrities. I thought that's what GWOP was doing when I first started reading. I realized how personally involved some felt and how those types of comments were intended. You do hear a few reasonable voices over there in some of the posts. But some of the posters are just crazy and frightening. I think their hate is thrilling for them.
I really liked all the discussion. I have taken way too much “me” time and am behind.
I'm sure this is offensive on some level; but I thought 3farmers was a man for a long time because her posts were so harsh and the crude attitude towards the children.
I don't think I even came close to saying that...a little over the top there, dontcha think?
Um, no. Why would that be over the top? You've said more than once in this thread that you were "astounded" that the kids weren't more well behaved on these shows. They were sitting there talking to eachother and squirming a bit. I don't think that it was a huge leap to assume based on your comments that you expected them to be still and silent.
All I'm saying is if they were being perfect in every interview and were all smiling in each and every picture, it would look more like work to me. It's not natural for 6 4 year olds to always be cooperative and if they were I'd think it was forced. As it is, it appears that the parents are the ones doing the work and that the kids are just tagging along.
I'm confused... are we not to have opinions of the children? When the G's themselves say that Aaden acts like a baby and that Alexis has an ear-splitting scream, is it not then ok for viewers to comment that they don't perceive Hannah as a leader or they are annoyed by Mady's sassiness? I know that some folks take it too far with their disparaging descriptions of G family members, but I am truly confused as to what is deemed "acceptable" comments regarding the kids.
"Can you please tell me how to get them to sit quietly for that long? Truly? I teach a preschool class at my church, and cannot accomplish this. I teach much older children every day and they are able to be quiet. But those preschoolers? Holy cow!!"
Amen to that! My husband & I teach the 4 & 5 year old Sunday school class at our church and they're adorable, but boy, are they loud and full of energy!
P.S. I noticed there was another Heather posting on here, so I picked a more unique name.
There is finally a new webisode on tlc.com! It shows the kids as well as Jon and Kate playing on this concrete jungle gym thing in Central Park that is apparently a fountain in the summer time--
Couple things I noticed-- not only did Kate say "No" to Hannah (when Hannah asked her to come see something as Kate was busy making sure the other kids were safe) but Kate also complimented Cara and Mady on their plan to help the little kids down a ladder. It was cute to watch them play together, and (for the umpteenth time) proves that just because we don't see things on the show does not mean they don't occur :).
3 Farmers claims to be advocating for those kids just like the rest of the regular posters and moderators at GWOP.
It is abusive. And typically, like an abusive person, she takes NO responsibility for her actions. Instead she blames the people to who she directs the attacks.
I do find it interesting that 3F says:
"I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim."
Of course, she is secretly adding the following disclaimer (wink wink)
"I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim .... with the protective cloak of anonymity."
UGHHHHHHHHH
I love how 3F shrouds her supposed advocacy and under some implied cloak of righteousness.
Puleeze.
Beer courage and nothing more that is what her brand of commentary amounts to.
Fiona,
I think we already put that post in.
Great post Linda.
Dotsicle,
I guess if you don't know what is appropriate to say or not say about the kids, then it probably is not appropriate.
I have never, ever seen the remarks like GWoP allows come anywhere close to that over here. It just would never happen.
Seems pretty black and white to me.
HB-you seem to get a kick out of twisting my words, but I am thru playing.
here's a kicker to think about....
the other day at GWOP ( I know, I know, I need to stop talking about them) someone suggested to the moderators that they put up ads on their site and charge admission!!
wouldn't that be exploiting the children even more?
I'm confused... are we not to have opinions of the children? When the G's themselves say that Aaden acts like a baby and that Alexis has an ear-splitting scream, is it not then ok for viewers to comment that they don't perceive Hannah as a leader or they are annoyed by Mady's sassiness? I know that some folks take it too far with their disparaging descriptions of G family members, but I am truly confused as to what is deemed "acceptable" comments regarding the kids.
You can't bitch about what crappy parents they are and then say "Kate said it first" to defend a harsh comment toward the kids. She can't be your moral compass and your arch enemy at the same time. I would think those that dislike her would stive to be her opposite, but that's just me.
T-bag,
I saw that too, and people were like, "yea, I'd pay"
Too funny!
Lizabeth said...
There is finally a new webisode on tlc.com!
Thanks for letting us know. I'll check it out!
I agree with Fiona - "I guess if you don't know what is appropriate to say or not say about the kids, then it probably is not appropriate." What Jon and Kate say about their kids on camera should have no bearing on what you or I choose to post about the children. We are each responsible for our own words. Also, in case you are confused, my issue is not with calling Mady's behavior "sassy." That's a pretty tame observation.
I believe some Gosselin posters have taken their dislike of a particular child to the extreme and I don't find any logical or moral defense for it.
I am amazed at how hurtful 3farmers posts have become toward the children. Whoever this person is has went over the line I feel as the kids cant defend themselves. But I tell you this the Figure 8 crew helps feed the fire.
Joel is shown as the whinner, Jon even pokes fun at him contorting his face when he speaks about him and the other boys. Then we see Joel at the pool in NC and not once but a few times we see his rear end. In fact it appears to me the camera man is following him around to film his "plumbers crack". Yeah and Kate even pokes fun at him about this. BTW Guinevere this part was an example of editing. On the Thanksgiving marathon it was blurred out. Wonder why that happened?
Many, not me, see Hannah as a favorite of Kate. Does the film crew help add to that fire? Yes, in almost every episode we see Kate holding Hannah, sitting by her or leading her by the hand. In the wedding episode she is the only one shown being held by Kate for a picture. Im sure other children got the pics taken with them so why focus on just her? Many here feel the 3farmers post will hurt the kids if read by them later on. What about the things J&K say about their own children. Im not condoning the comments of 3farmers just saying. How did the GWOP people learn Alexis was in the basement and why? Then she quickly was returned to the bedroom after much ado. except we see her bed in the beginning of the HI episode. A little blame can be placed on more than one person.
Anya on the book deal I think people wonder where Beth is for one reason. It was her and Kate that were on the original book cover. Not until late summer was Jon's name added along with 37 approximate pages. Why should she not be on the book tour. By Kates own admission her family was at Beths every Sunday. She helped author the book to some extent. Why should people ignore Beths absence?
"I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim."
Good heavens. 3farmers has pretty much told us all we need to know about her. How could anyone not realize the ignorance and hypocrisy of a statement like that? And a teacher too. Sad.
I wonder if she would let her students use the "but Kate did it first" defense?"
Maybe I am strange but I don't see why Beth would be on the talk shows with them; the book is about the Gosselins. Something could have changed between the families as far as friendship but it could also be that no one is interested in talking to Beth (except us diehards. :))They want the family. Do celebrities usually have co-authors or ghost writers around to promote their books? I don't know.
I guess I just don't see anything sinister.
Does anyone else find it ignorant that GWOP refers to Kate as Katie Irene? That is the reason I stopped reading there.
"Spanglish - I'm just wondering if you had kids at this time and they were going with you on the trips? As an adult, I can see your point on how exciting it is. But from a kid's point of view, I'm just wondering if they miss it as much as you do."
The trips were only for the top salespeople and their spouses/SO, plus the top executives and their spouses: a total of about 30-40 people for each trip. So the kids weren't involved. They stayed with their grandparents when we were gone and had a blast, and sort of resented going home when we returned. :)
"I'm assuming for your husband to get those rewards he must work long hours with probably a lot of business travel. This isn't a judgment against you or your family - really it's not, because people need to do what they need to do, but I wonder if you've asked your kids if they would appreciate more time with Daddy vs. a 10 day trip to Europe?"
Since the kids weren't involved in the trips, and now that they're grown, what they remember is the great time they had with the grandparents when we were gone. Yes, their dad traveled quite a bit as they were growing up but as much as he could, he was involved with them and their activities. He really had no time to himself during that time, it was either work or family. It wasn't about the amount of time with their dad, but the quality of time, and in that they were very rich indeed.
"Spanglish, That sounds like it was FABULOUS!!"
Yes, it was, merryway. When the program was discontinued, there was a period of adjustment to accustom ourselves to ordinary life again, which is what the Gosselins will have to do at the inevitable end of this show. We have wonderful memories, so many unique experiences. We still benefit today from the financial rewards of that time, and I hope the Gosselins have the foresight to assure their children will also continue to benefit from their current financial gain long after this time of their life is over.
-Does anyone else find it ignorant that GWOP refers to Kate as Katie Irene? That is the reason I stopped reading there.-
I just wonder why they feel the need to, that's all. You know they have to believe that it's either some sort of dig, or maybe it's their way of saying they knew her when she was "Katie Irene" and not "Kate" of Jon and Kate Plus 8. It's silly, but that whole place is tainted. I haven't read the comments on that board in a long time. I might skim the homepage occasionally, but I know it's going to be all about criticizing every move the Gosselins make, and I can't think of a reason why I would want to put myself through reading all that hate. It's aggravating, and I don't need that in my life.
Beth said...
Does anyone else find it ignorant that GWOP refers to Kate as Katie Irene? That is the reason I stopped reading there.
Yeah, it's lame and meant to convey their utter distain for her (as if we couldn't discern that from their posts).
Better than the other nickname they have come up with for her, however.
I guess I just don't understand the need to be so petty and mean. I don't think I will ever understand the motivation.
nc resident said...She helped author the book to some extent. Why should people ignore Beths absence?
I understand what you are saying. We all have different aspects of the show and the people who have been on the show that personally interest us.
I just think we can only speculate as to the reasons Beth has not been on the show in some time and/or is not part of the book tour. Some of us are more curious than others about this. I don't know that we will ever find out the full story, however. I guess we can stayed tuned...
Spanglish,
Thanks for the perspective. It's neat to hear about. You sound llike it was wonderful, but everyday life can be adjusted to, too.
I must not watch this show very carefully because I never see blatant favoritism toward Hannah. On the other hand, there have been a few times when I thought about Kate's feelings about boys. Maybe when you have so many kids it's just hard to give everyone the piece of you that they need.
Someone was saying that the gwoppers watch episodes over and over to find the exact moments they are up in arms over. Now I can't be the only one who finds this excessive and obsessive! Wow. I admit to being busy these days but even during my worst moments this past summer I never thought to watch an episode more than once or twice.
Dotsicle:
Can we have opinions about the kids? Sure. Should we make it our mission to single out one child and continually pick every interaction between her & her mother apart? I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say no......
Hannah's not a leader? Hmm.... what should she be leading exactly, that any of us could properly make that judgement? The counch interviews perhaps?
Surely you understand that even though we see the kids weekly what we see of who they are is QUITE LIMITED- if Kate says in an intro that Hannah is "the leader and Mommy's helper" then Im prone to believe that- afterall she is her mother. And I do NOT see favoritism towards Hannah at all. If anything I see the most positive "couch talk" about Leah (and no I m not sayng I think she's the "favorite".)
Different children need different things- Hannah might be the only one who wants to be cuddled often- I have a very healthy bond with our 5 year old but she has never been a snuggler, I wish she were but she just isn't. I do not believe that Kate turns the other kids away in favor of Hannah- absurd. Adults should know what is and isnt okay to say about young children!
Yeah, I don't see what's so hard about distinguishing between inappropriate and appropriate comments about the Gosselin children. If you're on the fence, well, considering that they are FOUR YEARS OLD, I would advise erring on the side of caution and decency.
Okay, IMO:
Mady is moody
Not okay, IMO:
Hannah is going to be a bitch when she grows up
Really not that hard to see the difference between those two things, I think.
Guinevere,
I agree with you about Mady and Hannah.
Kate is going to have her hands full when the girls all become teen-agers. Five girls, all with PMS at the same time, does not spell fun. I have a feeling that there is going to be multiple meltdown's in the Gosselin house in the near future.
It wasn't about the amount of time with their dad, but the quality of time, and in that they were very rich indeed.
I agree with this very much, and was the point I was trying to make in a previous post about all the trips the Gosselins take with the kids. Just because the parents are always present doesn't mean they are spending quality time with the kids, or creating memories that they will have forever.
I haven't been posting lately because I haven't had time to see the show, and I didn't really see all of this one, but did Kate really say the appearance on GMA was to promote the book? On the show, maybe 5% of their airtime was spent talking about the book.
I will continue to make pointed remarks as long as I find idiocy upon which to take aim.
(before my post, thanks to Nina Bell for teaching me how to bold!!)
Just wanted to say, I really haven't frequented the other blog in quite a while (the need to be masochistic has been absent from my mind for a little while now!) but if this is the argument, I hope they realize it goes both ways. I (as well as many others here I imagine) will continue to do the same thing with their "idiocies".
I learned a very long time ago that it is not a good idea to point fingers at someone else's parenting skills. As long as children are LOVED, well fed, clean and have a roof over their head, who am I to nitpick the particular way a parent, parents?
It is obvious to me that these beautiful children are well loved. As a mom of two, I know from experience that you love your children with the same capacity, however, you parent them all differently. I cannot imagine having to hone my skills to be in tune to 8 children! Imagine what life will be like when they are in their teens.
I have posted many times over at the GWOP site and two of my comments have gone through. I decided to stop frequenting those boards because I am sick to death of grown women picking apart every move this family makes.
The funny thing is, if this show goes off the air like they wish, they won't have anything to piss and moan about.
Perhaps they can take their empty hours and volunteer at a women's shelter or a children's hospital since they are such advocates.
I'm very shocked to read this: "considering how much I hate most of their kids". Someone on a blog wrote this. An adult with children of her own. It's relevant to this thread because the statement was made via watching this episode. This says it all to me re the caliber of this sad soul. You hate most of their kids.
Charming.
This is why I don't read other sites. I changed my mind this morning and checked out one other place while I sipped a 2nd cup of tea. Blech! I should have gone downstairs and worked on the rest of my Christmas cards. Would have been a much better use of time AND I wouldn't feel so bad for little kids who did nothing to deserve to be hated. Not hate sites? Indeed! That this would come from a mother's mouth at all is incredibly sad.
Mary, ouch. I know how you feel. I have read things on the main hate site and others that really make me upset for humanity. I know that's a bit of an overstatement, but it is really quite unnerving to see these type of comments, e.g. picking apart a beautiful 4-year-old girl just because she's the perceived favorite - and to know that the person typing on the keyboard is probably "normal" on the outside - could be your co-worker or neighbor....
"Spanglish, Thanks for the perspective. It's neat to hear about. You sound like it was wonderful, but everyday life can be adjusted to, too."
Unfortunately, I can't say that everyone made the adjustment to ordinary life. The program had been in place for 12 years and many people had qualified for several years before my husband joined the company. Most of them were okay afterward, but some had become too dependent on the big commissions and bonuses to maintain their lifestyles, and when the program ended and the amounts were much smaller, they were in serious trouble. I know of two couples who divorced as a result of the stress. This is the danger for the Gosselins when the show is over. The longer they have access to the lifestyle they have now, the harder it will be to give it up when it's over. We could have purchased a much more expensive house at the time, but we chose to remodel instead (a nightmare process at the time, but the results were worth it!).The $1M property the Gosselins supposedly purchased will require substantial upkeep and when the show is over, it may become a burden even if they've put away some money for that purpose as their income after the show is unknown. We made the decision to save for the kids' education and our retirement, and there are no regrets. I hope the same is true for the Gosselins, for the sake of their kids.
I'll just never understand how making fun of Kate's hair, or making fun of each kid's good and bad qualities, can in any way help to stop the exploitation of those kids like the GWOP claims to be doing.
Some moron over there just made an entire post about where the kids are going to be in 50 years and they basically say in so many words that one of the boys (can't remember which one) is going to grow up to be gay. Not that there is anything wrong with that happening, but it is wrong to already assume he will be gay in the future. He is 4 years old!
The $1M property the Gosselins supposedly purchased will require substantial upkeep and when the show is over, it may become a burden even if they've put away some money for that purpose as their income after the show is unknown.
Spanglish -
I was thinking about the same thing the other day, especially because they have stated that the show is their primary income. I do think that Jon and Kate believe they are making the right decisions for their family based on the financial gains they are receiving right now, but at the same time I can't help but think that all this money is clouding their judgement. While they might have the best intentions of saving the money now for them and their kids' future, when the show is over and the mortgage is due, what's to stop them from raiding their kids college fund to pay for it?
I wish there was an outside person protecting the kids' interests to ensure their money will still be there for them when they are older. I have to say, based on what I have seen of Jon and Kate on the show and that they increased the number of shows they are doing in a season which limits the amount of personal privacy the kids have even more, I don't really trust Jon and Kate to do it themselves.
As for making fun of Kate's hair, I have to say that I find the spikes on top of her head to be a peculiar choice, and have thought to myself "what is she thinking?" People in America comment all the time on people's clothes and hairstyles, and someone here even posted she thought Jon looked hot in an episode. While it's not relevant to the show, I don't see why it can't be a topic of conversation among normal, non obsessive people.
I keep telling myself not to read the other site but every once in a while, curiosity gets the better of me and I have to see what the ‘gate’ of the week is. It always leaves me frustrated. I’m not sure what pleasure they derive from being so nasty. There may be posters there who have legitimate concerns but they’re overshadowed by others who are, in my opinion, being mean just for the sake of being mean. No one will ever convince me that comments about Kate’s hair or Hannah’s supposed manipulation are forms of advocacy. The ‘advocacy’ tag is used as justification to be mean-spirited and bitchy. That opinion probably makes me a sheeple. I can live with that. I’ve been called worse.
As for this episode, I didn’t think I’d be too keen on this one because I have little interest in their book and don’t really watch their interviews on other shows. Despite that, I enjoyed it. I liked the way they broke the day into appearances in the morning and the family outing in the afternoon. It was neat to get a glimpse of the behind the scenes stuff and definitely fun to see the kids at Central Park.
Regarding the newest GWoP "talking point," which is evidently Jon's forehead. Seriously? Did it every occur to them that Jon and Kate are wearing stage makeup while being filmed in their "confessional chair?" Jon may be having a reaction to that. Sweating under the lighting while in said confessional would also cause skin problems.
But no, Jon MUST be taking steroids. Are they freaking kidding? That's actually hilarious.
Oh, and as far as the "name calling" in regards to Julie. I'd be lying if I made some kind of half-assed apology. I have no respect for her, her methods or the crowd she keeps. Period. Shrug. But, lecturing others and telling them how to post is kind of unbecoming, as well. Just sayin'.
I can't stop myself. I have to post a comment.
For some reason my mother "bonded" with my brother more than me. Don't get me wrong. I love my Mom and we are very, VERY close. However, when he comes to town, it's as if a crown prince is visiting.
It's very clear to everyone who's ever seen them together. In fact, it's uncomfortably obvious. Furthermore, my sister-in-law has told me matter-of-factly that he's Mom's favorite - that he's "special."
I love her. I will do anything for her. But this hurts. It has ALWAYS hurt. And it WILL always hurt.
And, when I see Kate cuddle with Hannah more or give the excuse that she bonded more with her, I ache for the other kids. Yes, they will adjust. Yes, they will understand. But it doesn't make it any less hurtful.
Trust me, I live it - every day.
And, when I see Kate cuddle with Hannah more or give the excuse that she bonded more with her, I ache for the other kids. Yes, they will adjust. Yes, they will understand. But it doesn't make it any less hurtful.
Trust me, I live it - every day.
With all due respect, PKD, your circumstances are not the Gosselins' circumstances. Every family is different. It has been suggested - and we really can't tell one way or another - that Hannah initiates the cuddling. So it's not that Kate is favoring Hannah when we see her hold Hannah more. It's that Hannah is favoring Kate. I understand, I think, why you might be sensitive on the subject, given your own experiences, but I will say that I've seen nothing that confirms for me that Kate is favoring Hannah in any way - that she's the one initiating the special closeness they seem to have.
I will say that I've seen evidence that Kate treats the boys and girls differently (not necessarily favoritism, just strong ideas about gender roles, as we've discussed), and I don't really like that.
I agree that Kate sometimes treats the boys differently. I think she probably doesn't relate to them as well, because she admits to being a girly girl or an inside girl. When they are all teenagers, she will probably come to appreciate them more. Much less drama. As the mother of two boys, I think boys are great! I have nieces, and would not trade my messy boys for all the drama that comes with girls. Love 'em, but oh the simple life for me :)
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