Sunday, January 4, 2009

New Episode - SOUP AND A SURPRISE



With such a large family, Jon and Kate always plan for ways to save money and time. On this day, Kate plans to make lots of soup to freeze for the upcoming winter season, but the day doesn't quite go as she expected.

108 comments:

Unknown said...

Well I sure could use some soup recipes, but wouldn't dare think to email Kate for any. They will probably be in an upcoming cookbook!

I don't think the surprise is the house...I think they are going to draw that out a bit.

But I do like good surprises so I hope it is a good one!

Anonymous said...

Im looking forward to seeing the new house.

I thought the season just ended last month for J&K and LPBW but the commercial I saw said all new episodes starting at 8:00 tonight.

Ann said...

Jersey Girl,
I don't understand what constitutes a "season" for TLC. What season is this anyway? Does anyone know how long a season is and how many episodes the Gosselins do in one season?

Anonymous said...

Yeah I have come to realize that TLC has different ideas for their shows "seasons" This season of J&K has been very long and it seems like LPBW was only a couple months. I looked at the website and LPBW is a repeat tonight so the commercial I saw was misleading.

Anya@IW said...

Saint said..."I don't understand what constitutes a "season" for TLC."

You aren't the only one! I don't know how we went from "Season 3" to "Season 4". LOL. I guess it's based on the number of episodes in the can?

Clearly, TLC realizes it has a money-maker on its hands, but also one that won't go on forever. Hence, the packed together seasons, I believe.

I can't lie. I am looking forward to the new episode. Today is a busy day for me and it's back to reality after the holidays. I am looking forward to relaxing tonight and watching the show and then chatting with you all tomorrow about it!

Tonia Says said...

Glad they had a little break from the cameras over the holidays, but I am looking forward to a new episode. Hope it's enjoyable!

BEE said...

Anya,
I am right there with you!

Can't wait for the new episode tonight!

marci said...

I'm pretty sure the surprise is at least them announcing they're moving as a surprise for the kids, but hard to say if we'll get a peak at the house yet.

(Sidenote: Think Kate will be using her CROCK POTS for the soup, ladies?? :) I noticed she had a couple out on the counter in the old one-hour epi when she was cooking up a storm before her plastic surgery.)

I saw TLC changed the lineup for next week from "Walk in the Woods" to the kids going to the dentist, orthodontist and to get a haircut again. And then the week after is another Q&A, probably using the questions and video collected at the TLC site.

I am amazed at the number of new episodes...I think there's been a new one practically every week since last June when they took the kids to the park. I think that's when Season 4 began (if you look at the TLC episode listing), but have no idea if we're about to start Season 5 yet since TLC is a little slow to list the latest episodes on the website.

One of my favorite things to do to unwind from a hectic Monday, kick back and watch at little J&K and wallow in the "Gosselin Love Fest." ;) I'll be sure to have a pad and pen ready to write down all the products I MUST GO OUT AND BUY because the Gosselins use them....baaaa, baaaa, baaaa.

Anonymous said...

I am really looking forward to this new episode. I love soup recipes so it will be interesting to see what she makes and in what quantity. If they show their new house that will be interesting to see also. I'll park on the couch with my popcorn and see what everyone has to say afterwords!

MonicaW42 said...

LOL Marci, you baaaad baaaaad girl....

Honestly, could you imagine boycotting all the products the Gosselins use? Try and take my Bounty and its on!!!!!

Portia said...

I can't wait for the new show tonight either. I am assuming that the show for the next couple of weeks was taped before they took their break, they were probably still in the old house. I would love some soup recipes also. LOL at your baaa's marci.

Unknown said...

Does anyone here think they can recap the recap-but instead of snarking the kids, snarking the author?

Sortof of taste of her own medicine?

Anonymous said...

I think the surprise is we'll see Beth cooking soup with Kate. :)It'll throw the Gwoppers in a tizzy!

3KMOM said...

I am going to guess that tonight's episode is totally about the soup thing and then at the very end they will do the suprise moving anouncement just to satisfy our need to know about their move and then obviously another episode will be entirely dedicated to the process.

Anonymous said...

3KMOM said:
I am going to guess that tonight's episode is totally about the soup thing and then at the very end they will do the suprise moving anouncement just to satisfy our need to know about their move and then obviously another episode will be entirely dedicated to the process.
_________________

Oh, that would s*ck! I am hoping it is earlier in. Some soup would be good but I want to hear more about the house and moving decision.

FYI: I don't fault them for it if they can afford it. I hope they aren't sunk into payments and messed up for the future. But if they know what they're doing and there isn't a greater-than-normal risk than any homeowner, great for them!

Anya@IW said...

FIONA said..."Does anyone here think they can recap the recap-but instead of snarking the kids, snarking the author?

Sort of of taste of her own medicine?"


Fiona! :-)

I agree a taste of her own medicine might be just what the doctor ordered. Personally, I wouldn't sink as low as she goes, but depending on what she writes, I might take a crack at it!

Anya@IW said...

Theresa said..."I think the surprise is we'll see Beth cooking soup with Kate. :)It'll throw the Gwoppers in a tizzy!"

Me likes the ideas you guys are coming up with.

Theresa, I think I would pay $ to see that! LOL.

Anonymous said...

I'll guess the announcement is at the end too. I *think* they have bowls (as in soup) in front of them on the commercial (obsessive watching much?). Or, you know, I could be completely out of mind... which is highly likely.

Anonymous said...

Jersey Girl -

I think TLC messed up the order of LPBW - I can't remember what happened in the episodes that made me think this (I think it is because the house was actually done, but they had a house warming for the last show), but I think their friend Mike actually died first, but TLC decided to save that episode for season finale. I think all of LPBW shows are not in filming order, if that makes sense?

Mom said...

I liked this epi. It was more "day in the life" and I have missed that with all the recent trips, etc.

Hey, and there was no major product placement - LOL! I read some peeps suspicions about Gladware, etc. I had to chuckle at that one.

Did anyone notice in the commercial/promo for J&K+8 there was a puppy running after the kids?

Hmmmmmmmmm.

Lizzy said...

This was a great episode-- if the stove top exploded when I was at it, I would have flipped out!! Kate really is lucky she still had the lid on there to keep the glass from flying everywhere!

The kids were adorable (I loved all the questions they were asking about whether they could take their dolls and Collin wondering if they would walk through Mady and Cara's closet to get to their room at the new house). Mom, I agree it was more like a 'day in the life' normal episode with a family just hanging out and doing normal things. No trip, no blatant product placement, nothing bad from Jon and Kate (except their snarky comments at the beginning of the show).

Because of that, I put 10 bucks on the other site talking about how boring this episode was and that it was pointless. Any takers??

Anonymous said...

I think all of LPBW shows are not in filming order, if that makes sense? Matt had to go to Iraq the day after this tribute to Mike was filmed according to Matt.
So Im sure in real life order it was Mike passed, housewarming party and tribute then Matt goes to Iraq, the following day. However this Iraq episode started the new season I think. That was a emotionally moving episode.

Anonymous said...

**Spoiler Alert*

Okay... here I go. In no particular order.

Jon: "Kate! You almost didn't tell them that soup is organic! How will they know unless we tell them whenever we mention any kind of food? They need to know. It's our ticket into the Cool Kids Club. Don't let it happen again."

Doing this show is your job, right? Well, if I showed up to my job and performed with as much energy, interest and spirit as you did tonight, I suspect I'd get fired. (Okay, so I don't even have a job, but still.)

My husband makes boogers and snot out of playdoh too, lol. A father that plays with his kids shouldn't be reprimanded about his tactics just because they're on the gross side. Dads that can make fun of bodily functions (without actually doing them) really rate in my book. C'mon Kate. These are life lessons.

I too used to get disturbed when my kids mixed the doh colors. I seriously had to take a deep breath and a step back just to let it continue. Then I reminded myself that playdoh is ridiculously cheap and readily available and I'm not stressed about it anymore. But I do let them do it inside. I've got a broom and one of those toe kick central vac outlets in the island (remember they installed one on LPBW?) and it's an easy clean up. Does this mean the Gosselin kids can only do playdoh during nice weather? To me, it's a god-send on rainy days. Maybe they're allowed to do it in the garage?

I don't think I'd want a stove that I practically have to stick my head over in order to reach the dials. Something is not right about the height (or lack thereof) of that microwave.

Calling Jon a typical male because he can't cook bugs me. In my world, the typical male does cook. And he's pretty good at it too.

It's true about always losing something in a move! Our last move was 8 years ago and everything survived the move. Everything except a brand new pair of dress shoes my husband had just bought. Lets just say they were very high end shoes that cost far more than my weekly grocery bill. We can only assume that one of the movers took them because even shoes can't just get up and walk away... without feet in them.

"Kids who nap get a snack." I'm not sure what to say about this. I don't like using food as a threat. I understand dessert. It's like a bonus. But a snack between lunch and dinner... that's a really long time for a little kid. I'm not saying it's gonna hurt them not to have it, but it's just a mean tactic to use on a 4 year old that may not want or even need a nap.

I wonder if Cara and Mady will have separate rooms - or if they even want them. I'd be unhappy if I wanted my own room and didn't get it, but my little sister did. I know the GWOPpers will go crazy about the little girls being separated, but good or bad I think it's the right thing to do.

How do you buy a home and not know how big it is? That's kinda weird.

I still don't agree with the "need" for a bigger house. The want for one? Yes. The want for a "forever house?" Yes. But not the need. What they "need" is to learn to utilize the space they have. I don't begrudge them they're move. I just think they're dillusional about what "the family of 10" really needs to survive as opposed to what might make them more comfortable.

Please. Buy some barettes or ponytail holders or something. They don't have to wear them all the time. Just at meals. Keep them in the bib drawer. Please. I'm begging you.

Anonymous said...

Lizabeth said: Because of that, I put 10 bucks on the other site talking about how boring this episode was and that it was pointless. Any takers??

_____________________________

I think they'll talk about whether they DESERVE OR EARNED the house.

Linda said...

Theresa (if you're out there) -

Do you think that J&K are or will be making money (residuals) when the show is re-run?

Anonymous said...

Mom said:
Hey, and there was no major product placement - LOL! I read some peeps suspicions about Gladware, etc. I had to chuckle at that one.
__________
I too, started to wonder if that would be the focus. I would agree that soup, the recipe of, making, storing, etc., was a beyond-the-fact thing. It was a more "in the day of and no real commmercials built in. Jon said the Little Tykes bouncy thing, they've had for a while. And he used to inflate in the garage. TOTALLY GET. When something is so inconvenient and CONVENIENT at the same time, I get, as a mom.

Also, thought it was sweet what the kids asked about the move. I was about 8 (four years older) and thought that if I kept everything "clean" then it was going to be fancier. TOTALLY kid questions.

I am happy for their home. I do hope that all future choices are made with financial/ credit things in mind. If they know they can afford this home in the future, vs. hoping things will come along (basically knowing what they're doing), I am happy for them.h

Anonymous said...

NC Resident -

It was the Iraqi episode that made me realize it was not in order. Thank you!

Anonymous said...

Linda-

I'm no expert, but I would hope they are in on that deal to make residuals. I think they perhaps have some really good financial people on their team who have that in mind. They have stated before that they said they'd pull the plug on the show if any of the kids wanted to not do it. Residuals would be an easy form of income.

merryway said...

Fav moment was Lexy being dainty with her napkin,wiping her mouth and being so proud of her question about the size of the new house. I thought Kate looked skinny and tired. I'm pretty sure she was going to snap at Jon when he interrupted to talk about how cute the ideas of the kids were about moving. I thought she looked so aghast! Hope they're in their new house next week. I want to see if life settles down for them and if they're home more. I want to see them in there and what it's like for them. There wasn't an in-show playtime commercial tonight that I could tell. Jon bad-mouthed the air jumper slide so it wasn't an endorsement. So yeah! for that. Did anyone else know that type of stove could explode? I'm guessing the burner was hot and it built up pressure under a seal. KAPOW! Must have been horrible but makes a great family story later on.

Rufus, you condense everything so well. I can see why the crown princess sometimes get bored with writing, but there are always the exceptional haters that keep popping up. The messages left on the articles are unbelievable. I would really really hope those are some bored teenagers at home thinking it's so much fun to jab the fire and do stupid stuff, the prank calls of the internet kind of thing. But, I don't think that's the case.

Linda, I don't know about reruns, but I would hope they get a piece of the dvd sales. It's kind of a weird who's working for who now. It sort of reminds me of the time when MGM "owned" stars. I think that's why it's hard to lay normal associations to what they may make. I still think with names like Hasbro and P&G they must be making some nice $s.

Anonymous said...

Okay, besides the snark in my previous post, I did like the show. They were at home. They didn't go on a trip. They didn't try to sell us anything. They didn't yell at the kids too much. They just did. And that is good.


One more thing though. At the table when Mady asked if she could ask a question and then looked at the camera... I swear I thought she was going to ask if the cameras were coming to the new house too.

Anonymous said...

Linda, I just read your question again. I thought you meant after the show is done. sorry.

But, yeah, I think perhaps they may somehow do get residuals of some sort even now.(but, that's not to say everytime there's a marathon or a two hour block). TI depends on what their contract states. I think the residuals are obviously in the DVD's (split/percentage with TLC))they have out as well whatever deal they have with TLC.

Hard to say for certain as I'm not privvy, but in my opinion I would think so.

MrsRef said...

The kids "earned" the new house, sorry but that's the way I feel. I doubt that it will be the "forever" house because I believe there will always be something bigger and better that J&K will want. I have a couple of tips for Kate. First of all, use one or two colors of playdoh and it won't get all mixed up (if that kind of thing bothers you) AND use your crock pot to simmer the carcases/broth for soup. One more thing, don't belittle a man who plays with his kids or helps you around the house.

Anonymous said...

Great idea about using the crock pot for simmering the carcasses Mrs Ref!

I like how Jon plays with the kids. I cracked up on his playdoh snot. (I know, not too mature, but it was funny!!)

I think they both looked tired on the interview chair. You can tell that the IC was filmed after the actual episode, which was filmed in summer.

Linda said...

Thanks Theresa!

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

mrsref -

I've got mixed feelings about Ks relationship with J. On the one hand I think that he is great in the way that he interacts with the kids. He is playful and he does what he is asked to do.

But I wonder if he is the kind of spouse who has to be told what to do. (There are spouses like that out there!) And if you don't tell him what to do he doesn't do much. I sometimes think that Jon is "obedient" but that he isn't much of a leader.

Samantha@IW said...

Nice stay at home episode- lately they look soooo tired during the couch interviews. I do wish Kate would stop criticizing everything Jon says. . . . .

Can't wait to see the new house!

Darlene Williams said...

I think I need to hire Kate. I don't think I have time to do all that much cooking in one day. I like whipping up the quick 30 minute meals. With 2 small children it has to be fast. I didn't know about the glass stoves and how they could do that because I own one. I actually learned something from Jon and Kate...wow..who knew!!!

Anya@IW said...

Alexis: "I always wake them up."
In response to Kate's "disturber" comment. Funny. She seems sanguine about the whole thing. Girl gets her own room!

I agree with Rufus and MrsRef. Jon deserves more props than he sometimes gets. I really like his style of play with the kids. Very involved, can be one of the kids when it's appropriate, but also steps in as the parental authority when needed. That said, I also agree with Linda. I don't think Jon is much of a leader and in the day-to-day running of the household, Kate sometimes has to play the role of the drill sargent whether she wants to or not in order to get things done (I am basing this opinion not so much on this episode, but on previous ones we have seen).

Rufus said..."Please. Buy some barettes or ponytail holders or something. They don't have to wear them all the time. Just at meals. Keep them in the bib drawer. Please. I'm begging you."

LOL. Your comment made me laugh. Overall, I like it better when the girls hair is out of their face too, but I also understand at the end of a day at home, maybe you don't bother.

As for your comment on the "want" vs. "need" for a new home. I actually think that is a very interesting question. Perhaps we can do a feature on that in the future? I don't feel it's my place to tell another family what they "need", but I am happy to engage in sharing opinions. I think we all probably have one on this issue. LOL.

MonicaW42 said...

I never knew that about glass stove tops either. Good to know.

Kate was pretty cranky in the kitchen with Jon but when my husband has a week or two off from work I am worse so I can't judge her :)

Guinevere said...

I agree with Rufus and MrsRef. Jon deserves more props than he sometimes gets. I really like his style of play with the kids. Very involved, can be one of the kids when it's appropriate, but also steps in as the parental authority when needed. That said, I also agree with Linda. I don't think Jon is much of a leader and in the day-to-day running of the household, Kate sometimes has to play the role of the drill sargent whether she wants to or not in order to get things done (I am basing this opinion not so much on this episode, but on previous ones we have seen).

I think he's a good dad, and in some ways his parenting style complements Kate's (he's more the fun, play with the kids type). I don't like how angry he sometimes seems when he yells at them - Kate can yell at her kids but she doesn't seem quite as angry when she does so.

I don't think Jon deserves special credit for doing things just because a lot of dads don't do them. He's a stay at home dad, which I think is fine, but I don't think the fact that he helps with the kids makes him Dad of the Year. They are his kids, too.

I do think Kate talks down to Jon, obviously, but as I've said before, I think he's partly responsible for not setting boundaries with her about what treatment he won't accept. I think on some level he likes being the 9th kid, being told what to do, and maybe even on some level he likes being scolded. Who knows. Their relationship seems unhealthy at times, but it seems to work for them.

My fave moment tonight was Alexis's knowing little nod, "I wake them up." I already saw a comment (ahem, elsewhere) to the effect that it was so awful for Kate to say that Alexis disturbs her sisters. But Alexis seemed to have no problem with it. Girl has scored the only single in the house, so I'd say she's crazy like a fox.

Anonymous said...

I agree that Kate seemed tired. (I hope that was it.) She comes across as the proverbial "wet blanket". Jon seems to genuinely have fun with the kids. I think they will remember that more than the big house. Incidentally, I grew up in a big family. The Gosselins can buy Aaron Spelling's mansion, and the kids are still going to be invading each other's space.

Anonymous said...

Guin-it's funny how "they" can make fun of the kids and then they cry fowl when Kate talks about her own child (and not in a bad way either....in a way that family is aware of). They talk out of both sides of their butts....er mouths...whatever....

They're all so cute, but that Alexis has the sunniest smile and great confidence. And, she gets her own room. Cool!

I thought it was cute how Collin asked how he would get to his new room....if it was the same way he got to his room now. So cute!

Linda said...

guin wrote:

I think on some level he likes being the 9th kid, being told what to do, and maybe even on some level he likes being scolded. Who knows. Their relationship seems unhealthy at times, but it seems to work for them.

I agree. I'm certainly not saying that he should be "the head of the household" because he is the man. I just think that he doesn't always demonstrate co-leadership in managing the family.

Anonymous said...

Did anyone else know that type of stove could explode? ///


I didnt know. I am not a fan of electric stoves at all. I did see "someone" say it was a stain and Kate should have still used that stove. A stain? To me it looked like there was a big huge honkin piece broken right out of the middle of the cooktop. That would be dangerous to use IMO Of course there was the obligatory complaints that Kate got a new stove so quickly. If she hadnt replaced it, they would insist she was begging for money for a new stove. LOL

It was a cute episode, enjoyable. Oh and I totally how annoying it can be to have someone (JON) in your way when you are trying to cook.

Anonymous said...

Guin said:
I don't think Jon deserves special credit for doing things just because a lot of dads don't do them. He's a stay at home dad, which I think is fine, but I don't think the fact that he helps with the kids makes him Dad of the Year. They are his kids, too.
______________________________
I agree with this. Does it bug anyone else when people say a dad is "babysitting" when talking about the mom going somewhere? I am at home with my daughter right now and I certainly am not babysitting. That term implies temporary care. It just bugs me when I'm out and someone says "Oh, is your husband home babysitting?"

Nina Bell said...

Cincymom

My kids are grown now but when they were younger, that always bothered me. It was never a phrase my husband used.

I returned to work 6 weeks after both of my kids were born and I worked long hours and at night. We shared the responsibilities of their care. Sometimes my husband would have to turn down offers that came his way of tickets to sporting and entertainment events and his friends would say "Oh, you have to babysit." My husband would always reply,"No, I am their father. This is what I signed up for."

That always put a smile on my face.

Anonymous said...

merryway said...
Rufus, you condense everything so well. I can see why the crown princess sometimes get bored with writing, but there are always the exceptional haters that keep popping up.


Wait. Am I an exceptional hater? What is an exceptional hater?

Anonymous said...

I just think that he doesn't always demonstrate co-leadership in managing the family.

A recent episode featured Jon at home while Kate was away. Kate has stated he was at home with the children in some recent media interviews. When the book was being written he was with them while Kate and Beth worked on this manuscript. She said that took a year and one half to write. I think Jon does fine when he is left alone and he's in charge. I think when Kate is in the picture he either feels he can't or he won't take the lead, but I think he can.

I don't like how angry he sometimes seems when he yells at them
Guinevere I noticed that as well. I do not think Jon is always quite as patient as he is depicted on the show. I do wonder if you or anyone else might feel it is his frustration at Kate that translates over to the children?

And if any question about the stove needs to be settled, when the glass top breaks its should not be used and needs to be replaced.

Ann said...

My random thoughts:

I thought Kate was rude when she was talking to Jon as she cooked. What a whiner. She just kept going on and on which I think was out of proportion to his stepping in "her" kitchen. My husband gave me the "Do you have to have that show on?" look through that scene.

Jon plays great. GREAT. He's funny and squeezes lots of fun within the "playing parameters." Kate's rules and complaints bug me, especially because he does most of the play/clean up. It's time for Kate to TRUST Jon's decisions. There is more than one way to skin a cat, right? However, I had no problem with her "exasperation" with his play dough 'snot' story. It's a dynamic they have that I don't think is all that unheathy...I think she's teasing as much as he is.

Jon is not a leader and Kate is. I agree with that. Not a big deal to me.

Kate does look tired. Sometimes I think the TV show is too much for her (like I do for Mady and Cara.)

Is Alexis the cutest thing ever? That smile! Awww...so, so cute. We want MORE of that. How about how they are talking now? Mady and Cara seemed interested, curious, and happy about the move.

I think Kate knows d@#n well how big the new house is and just didn't want to say on TV. Had she said the square footage, I would have thought, "Crass, and what does that mean to a kid anyway?" Her answer was fine.

The new stove is a poor fit.

I liked this episode.

Linda said...

ncresident:

I agree with you on this. (Can you believe it? lol)

I think when Kate is in the picture he either feels he can't or he won't take the lead, but I think he can.

It may be just a dynamic that happens between them -- that the more she bosses the more needing bossing he becomes and the more needing bossing he becomes the more she feels the need to boss him.

(I think that is the definition of a vicious cycle.)

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

We have an electric cooktop similar to the one that they have. About a year ago, without explanation the glass top cracked. It was covered under warranty, but it was non-functional for safety reasons until the thing was replaced.

Nina Bell said...

Last night I was pretty tired and was moderating comments via my Blackberry and rejected a comment but I wanted to address it this morning. I rejected this comment because it came through as anonymous and not because of the content.

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "New Episode - SOUP AND A SURPRISE
This was a great episode--I liked this episode........---------------------------------Am I watching the same show as everyone else on this board? Kate looked bored and just irritated that she had to answer these 'horribly horrendous' questions. Oh and also medicated. These shows are just one terrible moment after another. What is the surprise? We bought our new huge house with all your 'love offering' donations; SURPRISE!!!I cannot believe I actually used to like this show.I am so over it.


Please just state your opinion without trying to demean or belittle how someone else feels about the show.

I admit there are more fans than non fans that visit this site,so you will be outnumbered in a discussion. But people are pretty respectful and will allow you to express yourself and engage you in a discussion here if you just state your opinion without degrading theirs. The first sentence was unnecessary.

You anger is palpable through the cyberspace. Please pick a screen name and come back for a discussion.

Samantha@IW said...

I agree with this. Does it bug anyone else when people say a dad is "babysitting" when talking about the mom going somewhere? I am at home with my daughter right now and I certainly am not babysitting. That term implies temporary care. It just bugs me when I'm out and someone says "Oh, is your husband home babysitting?"

YES!!! We just spent a week with my family and any time we are there and I go somewhere without our daughter my mom refers to my husband as babysitting and it drives me nuts. Excuse me but you dont babysit your own children- he isn't doing me a favor lol, she's his child! No one calls it babysitting when he's out and she's home with me, why is that?

merryway said...

Rufus said...
merryway said...
Rufus, you condense everything so well. I can see why the crown princess sometimes get bored with writing, but there are always the exceptional haters that keep popping up.


Wait. Am I an exceptional hater? What is an exceptional hater?


No, I don't think you're an exceptional hater. I think my train of thought went off-rail. I must have got your post confused with something else I read yesterday that apparently wasn't on this blog or maybe in the archives. I was busy yesterday and then I had company right up until the show, but I tried to spend some time reading around on the PM story. It was a post about the predictability of GWOP. I think I came back here and crossed it with your post that I had already read. Sorry, my post only makes sense in reference to what I had read elsewhere so it should just be ignored.

Anonymous said...

Nina GWOppers' pitched a fit over Kates' Iphone. Imagine the flack you will catch by bmitting to having a Blackberry hehehehe.

Linda you said in another thread that typing what you feel is not always easy, I think that was you. I agree that many times my typing doens't match whats in my head if that make any sense. So sometimes my comments don't read true. Simply put we agree on more than what it appears we agree on.

Mom, my brother had that and is still recovering after 2 doctors visits. I hope you and aap feel much better and really soon.

Anonymous said...

Loved seeing the kids on this episode. They continue to be the reason I watch! Loved, loved, loved Alexis. She has it all figured out and she is FINE with it. She has her own room LOL!! Collin is the sweetest kid. He asks questions in such a sincere and cute way.

Yup, Kate looked tired. Maybe they are getting the house packed up. Who knows? We had a packing crew on our last move. I think I did more work than they did. I remember being exhausted. I think Kate was wise to simply say the house is bigger and leave it at that. Doesn't bother me at all. I wish this family well in their new home.

Jon & Kate seem to have a dynamic that works for them. Like it or not, I sometimes find myself having to lead my husband through something that I think seems very logical while he stands there looking bored and or/clueless which tells me he doesn't want to deal with whatever is sitting right in front of us. I get a little testy and he gets a little distant while we tackle whatever it is. I can relate to the way Jon was just helping out after the cooktop broke. It actually made me laugh and think about how my husband goes into that mode if I'm overwhelmed or annoyed with something. No, I am not as OCD as Kate or want people to get out of my kitchen. But sometimes I'm flustered and my husband is calm beyond what seems normal LOL!

Yes to the cooktop question. We had a cabinet above our cooktop in our former house. One day I opened a cabinet door and a glass bottle of something just fell out and cracked the cooktop.
Absolutely could not be used until it was replaced.

I liked this little episode. It's the reason I started watching this show in the first place. Cute kids and amazing interaction between them.

Unknown said...

I thought this was a fill a slot show....very dull. Was Kate even really cooking soup?

The one thing that really, really bothered me was when Kate said the kids "deserved" the new house.

Ok, kids do "deserve" a home, a clean and safe home...they "deserve" clean clothes. They do not "deserve" a 4000 sq ft home.

They do deserve a private childhood. I think Jon and Kate's ideas about what the kids need is very skewed.

I thought Kate's tired behavior was actually rude. The interview is part of her job. Her demeanor seemed so bored and the constant fiddling of her darn earring is distracting.

Kate, drink a RedBull or something prior to the interview. I am surprised that Jen hasn't said something like "perk up".

Seriously, I don't think she cares how she comes across during the interview.

merryway said...

Well I tried to write about Jon and babysitting (dads don't babysit) and the playdough they used becoming one color as I have some moonsand that looks the same, but I don't seem to be able to get anything out that makes sense this morning. Also, I think TLC was trying to make the move a surprise and that's why Kate couldn't confirm at the book signings. I really don't think F8 expected the inet pics to show up and since there are people who watch who don't know about the blog world who don't know what the plans are yet they are still following that plan. Hope that's coherent, nothing seems to be computing well and I seem to have caught a bug. I believe I will be taking the day off and curling up.

Anonymous said...

When I was watching Jon and Kate interacting in the kitchen, I got the "vibe" that they were teasing each other in a way. Like, he knows she will complain when he goes in, so he does it to tease her, and she obliges him by complaining. It is a ritual that they have. My husband and I have similar rituals over pillows, knuckle cracking, etc. One of us does something and the other complains, in a teasing or obligatory kind of way. It might look ugly to outsiders, but we "get it".

Obviously, I don't know if this is true for Kate and Jon. However, if he truly felt belittled, I think he would say so (he has before). It may not be the healthiest way to get along, but every family has their own way of interacting.

Ann said...

I criticze Kate for her sniping at Jon (in the kitchen) but I acknowledge that lots of other people talk to each other that way (and I don't like that either.) It's normal and does not make her an exceptionally crabby wife.

I feel the same way about Jon speaking harshly to the kids. He could definitely improve, which means he's just like a lot of other adults in America.

They're normal.

I have my own sniping moments and my husband can do "clueless" like a pro.

I can honestly say that I would never refer to the father of a child as "babysitting." I can't say I have heard it either. I think you would be looked at veeeery suspiciously in my family if you referred to anyone's dad as "babysitting," like the REAL dad is someone else! ;)

Anonymous said...

Merryway said Also, I think TLC was trying to make the move a surprise and that's why Kate couldn't confirm at the book signings.

I think you're right Merryway. She's under contract and is only obeying that.

And, oh my goodness...it's going to be a blizzard because I totally agree with you NC Resident :)LOL! I think Jon does fine when he is left alone and he's in charge. I think when Kate is in the picture he either feels he can't or he won't take the lead, but I think he can. I think you're right. As much as I think they're a good couple for each other, Kate does wear the pants in that family and more often it seems that he is whipped. But, it works for them, so who am I to say?

And NC...yeah, I do think that he might carry some of his anger that should've been directed at Kate towards the kids. At times it seems that the tone is a bit too much. But, I do think he may realize it and makes it up to them.

Anonymous said...

Right on NotaPerfectMom!!

every family has their own way of interacting.

What we may see as nagging, a bit too much, etc. is probably just a family's own dynamic and interacting. It may or may not jive with our own particular family's interacting...or it may. And, what they joke about, some may see as "problems", while others get the joke.

Great point.

Anonymous said...

Linda and Theresa,

I'll be back later on I'm gonna go get my eyes checked, then up my heart medication dosage hehe. Not making fun of anyone that has heart problems, beacuse my mother does.

But, it works for them, so who am I to say?

I really wonder if the church crowd that has been privy to this show, feels the same way when they see her appear in church speaking engagements?

I have my own sniping moments and my husband can do "clueless" like a pro.

Don't tell your hubby I revealed this secret, but, they teach male pattern cluelessness during woodshop in HS Saint hehe.

Heather said...

I would have thought more people would have liked this episode. I see so many write they want to see a normal day, kids playing. This is what we get, and they say it's too boring. I thought there was a lot of kids interaction.

Also, clearly this was filmed a while ago, but I'm not surprised. We see only 22 minutes (at best, especially with all the repitition) of footage each week. There has to be tons of extra stuff, and I'm sure they just decided to make it an episode. The complainers should like this...less filming for the kids!

Nina Bell said...

Sure No Name

Starting a conversation with, This was a great episode--I liked this episode........---------------------------------Am I watching the same show as everyone else on this board?,
really opens it up for a civil discussion.

Ann said...

they teach male pattern cluelessness during woodshop in HS

And he got an A+ in woodshop, too.

Anonymous said...

NC Res-don't O.D.! :) LOL!

I really wonder if the church crowd that has been privy to this show, feels the same way when they see her appear in church speaking engagements?

I guess it would depend on how much sympathy and/or empathy they have for Kate. Maybe the more a person can relate, they can let things slide because they identify with it and it works in their own life. Know what I mean?

Anya@IW said...

Mary -- I totally agree with all your points, especially about how carefully and sincerely Collin asks his questions! Precious!


FIONA said..."The one thing that really, really bothered me was when Kate said the kids "deserved" the new house."

Fiona, I caught that too. My personal opinion is this comment may have to do with guilt that Kate harbors. I think most moms do for one reason or another. Perhaps she is internalizing some of the criticism she has received for allowing cameras in their home. I also believe she feels the sextuplets are sometimes shortchanged by virtue of the fact that there are six of them and it's physically impossible to give the same attention to six as you would to one or two. Lastly, I do think Kate is materialistic to a degree. I can relate as I have those tendencies (I know they are not always healthy ones).

I think Kate really wants her children to have "the best" and part of that, for her, does involve having a big house, great vacations, etc. I think it is done out of love, but perhaps there is too much focus on material things. She would hardly be the only parent today guilty of this, however.

Portia said...

I think Kate looked like she had a cold. Her nose seemed red and she looked tired.(During the episode, not during the interview.)

Nina Bell said...

No Name

If you want to email me I will have that discussion with you. ninabell53@gmail.com

marci said...

First, about the stove...

If I recall correctly, Kate said she put a hot lid down on the cold glass top, which caused the top to crack. But was lucky because the heat under the lid caused suction between the two...which kept the glass shards from flying far.

I've owned one and putting anything too hot on a cool part of the glass top can cause this, I think, particularly glass on glass.

I liked this episode for its day-in-the-life feel and the conversation about moving with the kids.

I, too, really feel Kate needs to give Jon a break on the small sh**...and the Playdoh booger when they were PLAYING was small sh**. There are enough important things to fuss at a husband about than to wear him out over the little stuff that doesn't *really* matter.

Plus, if you're always having a problem with what he does you start to sound like the adult voices in the Peanuts cartoons after a while...wha, wha, whaaa, wha...and he just stops listening.

Overall, nice episode.

Anonymous said...

Saint said: I can honestly say that I would never refer to the father of a child as "babysitting." I can't say I have heard it either. I think you would be looked at veeeery suspiciously in my family if you referred to anyone's dad as "babysitting," like the REAL dad is someone else!
___________________
Thanks! Isn't that surreal? I just don't get it, but have actually heard it numerous times.
My husband is a LOT like Jon with the "hands on". I know it is not like that with everyone. But it still just drives me nuts to hear "babysitting" when referring to a dad being with his own kids.
________________
And for anyone who might care, computer still bad--it shuts down after 10 minutes always. I just ordered one on buy.com and have fingers crossed.

Has anyone made the crock pot items yet? I'm hoping to go shopping this weekend and pick a recipe.

And...finally. I watch J&K on Tuesdays a.m. with my daughter (p.m. kindergarten). She has such funny comments on it. She said about the new house, "I think all fancy homes are white. That's what fancy homes do."
How cute!

Anonymous said...

O lordy!!!!!!!!!!!!
My computer did NOT compute all my thoughts on my last post.
I know that happened to someone else recently.

How frustrating!
But,....Saint--you are right. Babysitting is NOT what dads do.

I also said some things about wanting some soup recipes, wondering if anyone had tried the crockpot stuff yet.

And my daughter....she watches it Tuesday a.m. before her kindergarten. She said "I think white houses are the fanciest." So cute. Just like Alexis and Leah with their comments.

Guinevere said...

She comes across as the proverbial "wet blanket". Jon seems to genuinely have fun with the kids.

I agree that Kate could benefit from loosening up and not being such a wet blanket at times - she is definitely the "adult" in the family. But to a degree I think the back and forth between her and Jon about this is just sort of a funny little routine they have set up. He likes to play the big kid, and she likes to act appalled by it. I don't take it too seriously unless she's being extra-bitchy about it (as she sometimes is).

Personally, I would've gone, "oh, gross" to the booger stuff too, though I don't think it's a big deal either way.

My husband would always reply,"No, I am their father. This is what I signed up for."

Good for him! Yeah, while I realize some posters are just comparing Jon to their own experiences, perhaps, the fact is that Jon is as responsible for those kids as Kate is. If one parent is working outside the home and the other isn't, maybe the duties shift a little bit (mostly just because one of the parents is physically present more often). But I know in some families the fact that the dad works and the mom doesn't means that the kids are ALWAYS the mom's responsibility, and of course that's not fair.

I do wonder if you or anyone else might feel it is his frustration at Kate that translates over to the children?

I don't think that's it, necessarily. I think Jon is better at being the "fun" parent, but he doesn't really understand being the disciplining parent as well. Kate has said he's not as patient with the kids, and while some viewers scoff at that, I think it's true in a way. Kate gets mad at the kids at times, but I think there are a lot of instances of her disciplining the kids gently, without getting mad. Jon seems to have this dad's habit (I'm not trying to smear all dads - it's just behavior I've seen in dads before) of going straight from ignoring misbehavior to being pissed at it. I don't think he gets that if you nip it in the bud with gentle correction, you may not need to be firmer or get angry down the line.

Jon plays great. GREAT. He's funny and squeezes lots of fun within the "playing parameters." Kate's rules and complaints bug me, especially because he does most of the play/clean up. It's time for Kate to TRUST Jon's decisions. There is more than one way to skin a cat, right?

Absolutely. This is where I feel like, though, without "blaming the victim" too much, Jon needs to step up and take control. He needs to let Kate know how he expects to be treated. He needs to let Kate know that his way of doing things is okay, too. They can talk it out, if they really disagree, but often Kate's way is just the "right way" because she's a control freak. But she knows she's a control freak, and I think if Jon would challenge her more it would be better for Jon, better for Kate, better for their relationship and better for the kids.

Kate does talk down to Jon much more than he talks down to her, and often in ways that she would not let him get away with (I was watching one of the older webisodes where she goes on about his weight, and I kept thinking, how would she like it if he went on about her weight?). But I give her credit for letting him know when he has crossed a line with her (witness the "stick" incident). Jon is passive-aggressive and refuses to do the same with Kate, and it really causes problems. Again, it would be great if Kate just didn't treat Jon badly, but when she does I tend to feel more frustrated with Jon, because I wish he would just SAY something instead of playing his little "I'm just not going to say anything" games.

However, I had no problem with her "exasperation" with his play dough 'snot' story. It's a dynamic they have that I don't think is all that unheathy...I think she's teasing as much as he is.

Thanks - I'm glad I'm not the only one to see it that way.

The new stove is a poor fit.

Hey, he got it in there, right? As far as I'm concerned, the less space for stuff to fall between the counter and the stove, the better! Sometimes I shudder to think what I'd find if I moved my own stove.

I feel the same way about Jon speaking harshly to the kids. He could definitely improve, which means he's just like a lot of other adults in America.

I agree with this, and I don't mean to come off like I think Jon's a bad parent because he overreacts with his kids at times. I completely agree that J&K are normal, which is why I find some of the online interpretations of their behavior just bizarre.

Mary -- I totally agree with all your points, especially about how carefully and sincerely Collin asks his questions!

Yes, Collin was really cute. I also thought Hannah was really cute in this episode - not that she said much but she looked so pretty when they were outside with the Playdoh (and tan! I wonder if this was filmed slightly after Hawaii?). Hannah being animated and giggly really gets to me because she often seems like the most serious of the little girls (I think I've said that before, but it bears repeating).

Ann said...

The new stove is a poor fit.

Hey, he got it in there, right? As far as I'm concerned, the less space for stuff to fall between the counter and the stove, the better!


I mean, it's too high. They need to check to see if they can adjust the height (it's at the bottom.) Or they could just get a new house!

scarfoot79 said...

I just watched it and my heart melted when little Collin asked if the new house would have "The boys room, then the gehls [girls] room, then go through the closet to Mady and Cara's room."

I agree that the show might be a lot for Kate to handle sometimes (whoever said that!). I didn't think she looked like she felt very well. Perhaps she was under the weather.

themrs said...

someone mentioned that they wondered how churchgoers feel after hearing them speak?

as a member of leadership in my own church, i can point out a few things. when we have a guest speaker of any kind, there is ALWAYS a love offering, whether they want it or not :) some of the people we've had are relatively famous (in the Christian world) and i'm sure are pretty well off financially. but people still give. many times the offering goes directly to their mission or ministry, but either way people tend to see it as a way to show their appreciation. now that being said, we don't pay the speakers to come, but we do pay their traveling expenses, etc. we have had a few really big speakers who have come to do conferences (we are the largest church in our town) and we did not take a love offering for those. i have no idea how other churches do things but that is how ours is done. either they are paid to come or a love offering is taken.

Jenn said...

Finally got to watch this episode. We have a stove just like that and I always set the pot lids on the top while I'm cooking... won't be doing that ever again! My hubby was watching with me and he made a comment about why they got such a low end stove... hello, they are moving. why would they purchase a super fancy one? the kids are so cute with their questions. you can see a sparkle in each one of their eyes as they asked their questions about the new house.

the only thing about this episode that i didn't like was the bickering between jon and kate in the kitchen. someone mentioned that maybe that's just their thing they do with each other and how they communicate. i suppose i can see that being possible. guess we'll never know.

i am looking foward to seeing the new house. i know kate said she does not want to move again however, i think they will. when this show is said and done, they will probably want more privacy and in order to get that they may have to find a new house, address unlisted.

Heather said...

I have question for you all. Did you think that this episode was completely staged? The other site is 100% confident.

I don't think so. This sounds like something Kate would do. She seemed organized, like she'd done it before.

The kids didn't act like the bouncy playground was new. They had the rules set up, Jon mentioned setting it up in the garage in the winter etc.

Now I'll agree some of the stuff is clearly staged (i.e. Tales of Despeaurex) but I don't think this was.

Anonymous said...

Heather, I read some of the other comments and that site seems to have a couple good points. My problem with that site is the random stupid crap they allow to post, and they say it's because they are or were advocates for the children. It's obvious most posters there want them off the air and in the poor house, nothing less.

1.) It seems as though 2 pots of soup probably would not last to long so the stocking up idea seems a stretch. Kate said 5-6 meals.
2.) How long can soup be stored?
3.) They announced a move so it doesn't seem logical to cook up alot only to have to move that, and take a chance on it defrosting.

Now in defense of them they might have cooked up enough to get them through to the move so she won't have to prepare a bunch during the bustle.

IMO some of the childrens comments seemed to be prompted if not told what to say.

I tend to agree with Fiona that this show is a filler and I think it might have been shown earlier, had the Gosselin opinion been met with more positive feedback. I really think TLC is wrestling with how to introduce this new house. We saw the same episode switching in LPBW. With the economy the way it is this show might just have reached its peak. Just my opinion but it seems as though we are seeing them test the waters by comments they allow us to see. Tempering, if you will public opinion because there has been alot a negative comments lately in papers, commenting on almost everything they do. Kids deserve the house, maybe a little sympathy for Kate as she appears tired.

Honestly, maybe Kate was ill and on medication, or just tired. But again whoever programs these things together show the Phillies episode, prior to this show, where IMO Kate seemed either medicated or intoxicated. She did act strange.

I will say I also feel TLC doesn't care whether we like them or hate them as long as we watch. Negative publicity is exposure too. But in fairness to J&K it's fair to say that TLC must be wondering what they need to do to make them appeal to some viewers, that seem to complain no matter what the episodes contain.

Samantha@IW said...

Kate does seem very tired lately- but thats not suprising to me. With promoting the book, the show, speaking engagements, 8 children, and the details of buying a new home. Also I'm guessing that these interviews are often done late.

As far as the show being a fller- but maybe. But isnt this what many viewers have been asking for? Regular daily life, seeing the kids play- no trips, no big outings, just normal "stuff, like when the show first aired.

rain88 said...

This seems like a Kate generated episode to me. Making soup ties into her "brand" about being organic, about the kids not eating junk, and about saving money. If I were Kate I'd want to have episodes that show my sellable and positive qualities for future potential earnings.

I don't think they script that much once they start filming and it's those bits of kid spontaneity that keeps me watching.

Anonymous said...

I don't think this episode was staged. I do think they had it as a filler, just in case they needed something new to tide over til after the holiday or they are settled into the new house. That would explain the tiredness of Kate and Jon on the IC chair and her hair being a bit outgrown (sorry, I didn't want to bring up the hair, but it is an indicator in this sense regarding time. BTW, I like her hair. :))

I'm with you. I think the Desperaux placement was odd and that to me, seems like the only thing that was scripted. But, I understand the reasons for that one.

Overall, I thought it was a cute episode. The kids looked like they had fun.

Remember Heather, you can't go by what the other site says. They're probably 100 percent confident that Amy Whinehouse is a good mother figure. :)

NC Res--once again, I agree..

I will say I also feel TLC doesn't care whether we like them or hate them as long as we watch. Negative publicity is exposure too. I had a consultant a long time ago say that generating negative publicity is great for (Arbitron) numbers. And, he was right. (Arbitron, for those who don't know, the radio equivalent of the Neilsen ratings. It is a company who tracks radio audience reseach and listenership. It is a big conduit and factor in air personalities staying on the air. The higher numbers, the better probablity of staying employed).

But, I don't agree on this... But in fairness to J&K it's fair to say that TLC must be wondering what they need to do to make them appeal to some viewers, that seem to complain no matter what the episodes contain.

TLC doesn't care how to appeal to viewers who complain. They are targeting and focusing on their core audience...the people who like J&K+8. Those are the people who bring on the ratings that they care about.

Heather said...

I work in the PR field, and as they, bad publicity is better than no publicity!!

I actually think about 90% of the people that watch the show like them, or are neutral. Most normal people don't watch TV shows that they hate...ha.

You're right Theresa, the other site is unbelievable. I read purely for humor! Love this site.

Anonymous said...

Me too Heather. I find it quite comical to see such assinine things written and wonder how a person can suggest some of the things they do.

This is a great site. It's not one sided and the people are respectful and the moderators are fantastic. We have intelligent conversations.

Anonymous said...

I wonder what the demograhics are on this show? Age groups and such.

BTW Linda and Theresa you two owe me $1,100. The eye doctor recommended bifocals, I got no-lines knew you'll would not mind. The EKG came back normal, phew, must just have been shock hehe.

Anya@IW said...

Heather said...I actually think about 90% of the people that watch the show like them, or are neutral. Most normal people don't watch TV shows that they hate...ha.

I think the critical word here is "normal" ! To clarify, I am *not* talking about our own beloved posters (you know who you are!) who have one (or more!) issues with the Gosselins, parts of the show, etc. I am talking about the frequent commentators and visitors of the main and mini hate sites. Folks who spend a 1/2 hour of their life each week watching a woman they can't stand, just to spend the next 6 days blogging incessantly about their hate. Then repeat the whole cycle all over again.

I'll never understand it (and I don't want to).

Anya@IW said...

rain88 said...This seems like a Kate generated episode to me. Making soup ties into her "brand" about being organic, about the kids not eating junk, and about saving money. If I were Kate I'd want to have episodes that show my sellable and positive qualities for future potential earnings.

I don't think they script that much once they start filming and it's those bits of kid spontaneity that keeps me watching.


I totally agree.

It always amazes me what good little healthy eaters they are. They were just scooping that soup into their mouth! Soup is not generally known as a toddler favorite.

I also really don't think the sextuplets are capable of being scripted! Maybe Leah? She is clearly the most articulate. They are all adorable, however, and I do also love the kid spontaneity you mentioned.

Anonymous said...

Anya said...
To clarify, I am *not* talking about our own beloved posters (you know who you are!) who have one (or more!) issues with the Gosselins, parts of the show, etc.


**waves** Hi Anya!

Ann said...

NC Resident,
I am not sure about the demographics of the fans. I know a lot of young college-aged girls who love it (and some who love to hate it, but just in a fun way, not a "hate blog" way.)

I know a lot of kids aged 5yrs. - "tween aged" who love it. I think parents of kids that age enjoy a show they can watch together.

And I am guessing SAH moms of toddlers/preschoolers love it because their kids are at the same age. And that would explain why it's on TLC in reruns during the day?

Anonymous said...

Ummmm did anyone else notice that certain "haters" are loving on Opie and Anthony now. Most of them post about what good Christians they are, so Im surprised that they are fans of the gruesome twosome. I guess its okay to demean women, broadcast people having sex in churches and dozens of other disgusting things as long as you also dislike Kate Gosselin.

Guinevere said...

I don't think the episode was staged - at least not any more than any other episode. Kate said (I think in the FAQ ep?) that they talk with the producers about what they want to capture, etc. I mean, they do come up with a storyline for each episode. I'm not sure why people would think this one was "staged" any more than any other.

I did have to laugh at some of the tinfoil hat brigades' examples of "staging" - as per the Princess Marie Chantal thread. It was Campbell's soup! The film clearly shows a second shooter on the grassy knoll, oops, I mean, some guy in the background fiddling with the stockpot! Also, if you freeze the video on the soup, you will see that it's too thin to be homemade and...something else equally crazy.

It's almost like the "boring" episodes cause some people to feel the need to overcompensate.

MrsRef said...

Is Jon really more impatient with the kids or is it because he is a man and men have louder voices so it sounds louder and more imposing. Thinking back, my father-in-law as well as my husband "seemed" like the yellers in the familywhile in actuality, it was the females (me included) that spent more time yelling, screaming and carrying on. Just a thought!

Anonymous said...

Jersey Girl--now that's funny...Gwoppers claiming to be good Christians yet they spew forth hate.

I heard that O&A "interview" and had to laugh because they carefully only went to different words of Kate's and distorted the meaning. If they aired the interview uninterruptted, it her words would sound much different. A bad editing job. It almost reminded me of the old 70's novelty song that was a bunch of edited song titles. They are indeed "bad boys of radio" and that's why they have their jobs and I haven't checked their ratings, but I'm guessing they're high because they are the shock jocks you don't have to pay for in New York/jersey. (Howard is on Sirius) They appeal to the rock, guy audience of 25-40 year old men. They are also haters and will do anything for the bit and ratings. They're just immature, as are the gwoppers. (So, how do I really feel? LOL!)

The kids are indeed healthy eaters. They eat broccoli and all sorts of veggies, Korean food, and soups. I always thought Kate instilled good healthy eating habits in them from an early age.

NC Res--check is in the mail! :)

Anonymous said...

Mrs. Ref:
That's so funny. When my husband gets mad with the kids (once a month) , even I freak out when I hear his tone. Maybe that's why he sounds so much louder than Kate.

Also, Guinevere, your comments are interesting. I believe Kate made the soup. I don't think she would stage that.

Ann said...

MrsRef,
I agree. I give Jon a pass. He may need to ask more gently, but I think that makes him normal. And I actually think Kate is right when she tells him to be less stern. That makes her normal.

This same scene: kids mess the place, mom asks for Dad's help, Dad yells, Mom says, "I didn't ask you to yell about it," is being played out all over the world as we blog away. Normal.

Anonymous said...

Guin--you're funny! "the grassy knoll"!

Kikibee said...

People "over there" are discussing how silly Kate was for using water from her filtered pitcher to make the soup. Apparently that's what rich people do.
They must watch the episodes on slo-mo so they don't' miss anything they can complain about.

merryway said...

I wondered later if I had seen a playdough commercial, but since J&K said it had to be played with outside and the LT air slide was a pain to take down, I don't think they were promotions. If it somehow was, I don't care because it didn't intrude on the show.

I also loved the way Collin asked his question trying to figure out if the new house was the same as the house they were in.

I think Kate really wants her children to have "the best" and part of that, for her, does involve having a big house, great vacations, etc. I think it is done out of love, but perhaps there is too much focus on material things. She would hardly be the only parent today guilty of this, however.

I agree with this also. When I was first started watching and saw Kate's personality, I was cynical about her intentions. I was sure she would home school to further filming. She could have done it easily giving very valid reasons for keeping them home. It's nicer to watch feeling that I've been proven wrong and thinking that their mom does have their best interest at heart as she sees fit. She seems the type to work too hard and exhaust herself for the good of everyone else.

It's almost like the "boring" episodes cause some people to feel the need to overcompensate.

When I read some of that stuff, I always wonder if the parties they contact like P&G and Paul Peterson check back to read the horrors of Kate using filtered water and all the hidden subtext with what we are being shown.

Anonymous said...

Why do "they" worship Paul Petersen? Geeze, he's a washed up child actor who is cashing in on another 15 minutes of fame (I'm guessing a few years ago?) when he went on a few cable tv shows for 5 minutes to discuss whatever child labor laws are being broken. So, technically, he got only 10 minutes of fame and is doing that on the backs of the children.

Anya@IW said...

Kikibee said...People "over there" are discussing how silly Kate was for using water from her filtered pitcher to make the soup. Apparently that's what rich people do.

Well SOME PEOPLE are living pretty high on the hog, aren't they?

Round here, we just use whatever's left in the dog's bowl!

merryway said...

Round here, we just use whatever's left in the dog's bowl!


Anya, LOL! LOL!

***************

still LOL!

Anya@IW said...

CincyMom said...Mrs. Ref:
That's so funny. When my husband gets mad with the kids (once a month) , even I freak out when I hear his tone. Maybe that's why he sounds so much louder than Kate.


I think this is a really good point. I grew up with a dad that rarely raised his voice (he really wasn't very involved in the child rearing - very different from Jon). When he did get angry, however, he would yell and his demeanor was pretty scary. To this day, I have a very visceral reaction to the sound of a man's voice yelling. It's possible Kate has a similar reaction....It seems like a few of us do.

Anya@IW said...

merryway said..."When I read some of that stuff, I always wonder if the parties they contact like P&G and Paul Peterson check back to read the horrors of Kate using filtered water and all the hidden subtext with what we are being shown."

If they do, it might explain some of the "interesting" responses they have gotten.

"Thank you for your rigidity." LOL. Sorry that never gets old! :-)

Theresa, I am not a huge fan of Paul Peterson either. Actually, I have nothing whatsoever against him. I just haven't see a lot of evidence that he has accomplished that much with his advocacy. I have checked his website, etc. and there is just not much "there" IMO. I am sure he's a nice guy.

Guinevere said...

Yeah, I'm just sort of meh on Paul Peterson. I can accept that he's sincere and not just trying to maintain some relevancy with his crusade, but even then I think there is the issue of whether he is a clear-eyed observer of the pitfalls of child fame, or someone who is bitter over his own experiences and extrapolates them onto others. That's not to say that the mission to protect child actors is not a worthy one; just that his experiences may prejudice him to an unhelpful degree.

Re Jon yelling - again, yes, I think it's normal and not a huge deal. He does sound angrier to me than Kate does when she yells, but he also sounds more intimidating. And I think some of that is my own perception of male anger v. female anger.

Anonymous said...

Kikibee, your post made me laugh. What's the big deal about using a Brita filter for God's sake? We used to use them here. We have terrible, gross water in our county and it even smells bad. I'm not rich. I use bottled artesian well water. Trader Joe's or Safeway on sale. Doesn't brake the bank. They DO go on at gwop. Of all the things that were shown on the Monday episode, they could see her using filtered water? They must watch her movements and go back and double check! Scary!
It's a zoo over there. Literally. Wait..I love animals and wouldn't want them grouped in the same category as Circus gwop.

Kikibee said...

Yeah, Mary I couldn't believe anyone could get worked up over a filtered pitcher. One poor soul had to "literally" scream at the tv, it bothered her so much. Now, there are some people saying it's okay, but the others say when she boils the soup it will kill all the germs. But does boiling fix the taste? And if their water is so bad they have to boil the germs out I don't blame them for moving.

Has Paul Petersen actually done anything other than talk about
the dangers of being a child actor?
I think his vision is skewed by being friends with Jay North (Dennis the Menace). I remember seeing Jay on talk shows when he was still marginally relevant. He was scarily angry and bitter about his experiences. But he had a mixed up family and I think that was his main problem.

Anonymous said...

I caught Ron Howard on Jimmy Kimmel last night and he is such a contrast to some other child stars. He said that he knew he wanted to be a director at a very young age so maybe he had a different outlook growing up; He seems to have good memories of his experience although he did mention being called "Dopie Opie" by kids at school.

Nina Bell said...

Well look who is not dopie now.

Anonymous said...

Nina Bell,


lol
He showed them didn't he :)