Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Kate Gosselin Breaking Leg was a RUMOR
Kate just attended the Christian Women's Girls Night Out In Texas and she was walking just fine, and in heels. So who ever start the rumor on the Jon and Kate + 8 forum doesn't obviously know all of the facts behind the story and was in for some gossip.
Kate gives advice to mom of octopulets
"I would say, first of all, congratulations on your hard hard work -- getting your babies here safe and sound!," she beamed. "Second, hold on. The NICU is quite a scary ride. Finally, you can do this -- from now until forever, you will struggle with a gamut of emotions but you can and you will be okay."
Gosslin goes on to caution the California mother that, like all new moms, she should "look forward to feelings of overwhelming proportions -- good, bad and ugly." But unlike moms of singles or twins, moms of remarkable multiples will be barraged by outsiders. "People will pop up with advice when they have no idea [of] the situation." And of course, more babies means more help, which means more people around all the time.
The new mom should be prepared for a "loss of privacy, and loneliness," Gosselin said. "It's all survivable, though, if you are determined enough."
All the California octuplets are still in the NICU. While they are reported to be doing well, they aren't out of the woods yet; three of the eight require breathing assistance. Their doctors indicated that the next seven days will be critical for all eight babies.
Serious medical uncertainties is something Gosselin relates to, saying that she and husband Jon got through the NICU with "Lots of prayer!" She also cautions, though, that "our babies sailed through the NICU. But that was rare and a miracle to say the least." We hope that the octuplets have as easy a time as the Gosselin's sextuplets did.
Finally, Gosselin has a simple but powerful piece of advice for the new mom: "Trust God's plan -- He knows best!" We're sure that lots of people -- Kate Gosselin included -- will be keeping these tiny babies in their prayers in the days to come.
Gosslin goes on to caution the California mother that, like all new moms, she should "look forward to feelings of overwhelming proportions -- good, bad and ugly." But unlike moms of singles or twins, moms of remarkable multiples will be barraged by outsiders. "People will pop up with advice when they have no idea [of] the situation." And of course, more babies means more help, which means more people around all the time.
The new mom should be prepared for a "loss of privacy, and loneliness," Gosselin said. "It's all survivable, though, if you are determined enough."
All the California octuplets are still in the NICU. While they are reported to be doing well, they aren't out of the woods yet; three of the eight require breathing assistance. Their doctors indicated that the next seven days will be critical for all eight babies.
Serious medical uncertainties is something Gosselin relates to, saying that she and husband Jon got through the NICU with "Lots of prayer!" She also cautions, though, that "our babies sailed through the NICU. But that was rare and a miracle to say the least." We hope that the octuplets have as easy a time as the Gosselin's sextuplets did.
Finally, Gosselin has a simple but powerful piece of advice for the new mom: "Trust God's plan -- He knows best!" We're sure that lots of people -- Kate Gosselin included -- will be keeping these tiny babies in their prayers in the days to come.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Walk in the Woods Feb 9th
Feb 09, 9:00 pm
(30 minutes)
Remind Me Jon & Kate Plus 8
Walk in the Woods
TV-G
While Kate's away in the Big Apple, Jon and the kids set out to explore the woods near their new house. With walking sticks in hand, they're off on an outdoor adventure! Will all the kids enjoy the great outdoors or will there be inevitable meltdowns?
(30 minutes)
Remind Me Jon & Kate Plus 8
Walk in the Woods
TV-G
While Kate's away in the Big Apple, Jon and the kids set out to explore the woods near their new house. With walking sticks in hand, they're off on an outdoor adventure! Will all the kids enjoy the great outdoors or will there be inevitable meltdowns?
Selling Elizabethtown house.....
http://www.brwnstone.com/properties/details.asp?listingid=10174495
For those of you looking to buy in the PA area Jon and Kate have listed their house! Here is the link to the house with the photo's!
For those of you looking to buy in the PA area Jon and Kate have listed their house! Here is the link to the house with the photo's!
Multiple Blessing Signings....
Here are a few date that are coming up soon where Kate will be at Barnes and Noble, signing the Multiple Blessing Books.
January 31st: Sovereign Performing Arts Center Reading, PA (Jon)
January 31st-Feb. 1st: Willow Creek Plum Grove, IL (Kate)
February 4th: Indianapolis Home Show (Kate)
February 10th: The B&N Palisades Center West Nyack, NY (Kate)
Three free things: Kate from Jon & Kate Plus 8, music and out of this world fun
Zondervan: Hand out
All ten members of the Gosselin family.
Kate Gosselin, the Kate part of Jon and Kate Plus 8, was at the Champion Forest Baptist Church Thursday night, but if you're not really on top of the church's event schedule chances are you missed out. Those tickets sold out quick.
No worries though for the Kate fans out there. Gosselin, the super-organized, super-clean super-mom of twin girls and sextuplets will be at the Barnes and Noble in Pearland Town Center Friday night from 6-9 p.m.
She will be signing copies of her book, Multiple Blessings. In the book Gosselin admits she's a "bit of a control freak." (MomHouston admits she knew that already.) In case you're wondering Jon and the kids probably won't be there, so the truly devoted fans of the show won't get to see her yell or slap at him.
January 31st: Sovereign Performing Arts Center Reading, PA (Jon)
January 31st-Feb. 1st: Willow Creek Plum Grove, IL (Kate)
February 4th: Indianapolis Home Show (Kate)
February 10th: The B&N Palisades Center West Nyack, NY (Kate)
Three free things: Kate from Jon & Kate Plus 8, music and out of this world fun
Zondervan: Hand out
All ten members of the Gosselin family.
Kate Gosselin, the Kate part of Jon and Kate Plus 8, was at the Champion Forest Baptist Church Thursday night, but if you're not really on top of the church's event schedule chances are you missed out. Those tickets sold out quick.
No worries though for the Kate fans out there. Gosselin, the super-organized, super-clean super-mom of twin girls and sextuplets will be at the Barnes and Noble in Pearland Town Center Friday night from 6-9 p.m.
She will be signing copies of her book, Multiple Blessings. In the book Gosselin admits she's a "bit of a control freak." (MomHouston admits she knew that already.) In case you're wondering Jon and the kids probably won't be there, so the truly devoted fans of the show won't get to see her yell or slap at him.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Need tickets for Jon and Kate + 8
Elizabethtown, KY
March 08, 2009 09:00 AM
For more info call: 270-765-4994
March 08, 2009 09:00 AM
For more info call: 270-765-4994
Moving Around
Everyone is moving around on the show, I just saw in the real estate transactions that Beth and Bob Carson sold their house the "estate" as Kate had called it, for 1.9 million and downsized to a house for 255,000. Wondering why such a switch, but it looks like they will be closer to the Gosselins, they are about 15 miles apart.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Kate Speak in Utica New York
By MONTANETTE MURPHY
Observer-Dispatch
Posted Jan 10, 2009 @ 10:35 PM
Last update Jan 10, 2009 @ 11:02 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MARCY — Looking at the seven round circles on the ultrasound screen overwhelmed Kate Gosselin.
Most people expect one baby, or maybe even twins.
But septuplets?
“Without a doubt, it was the absolute scariest thing I had seen,” Gosselin said.
On Saturday, nearly 600 people turned out at the First Assembly of God hear about that to experience from Gosselin, of the cable television reality show “Jon & Kate Plus 8.” The program airs on TLC.
Jon was not able to make the event.
Poised on a stool in an intimate stage setting, Kate spoke candidly about how she came to terms with being pregnant with what would become six babies after one of the fetuses stopped growing.
She pondered what life would be like for her, Jon and the couple’s fraternal twins, Cara and Madelyn.
And at times the thought of six car seats, six cribs and a vehicle to fit everyone was too much to bear.
Medical staff even asked her whether she and Jon would consider a reduction in the number of fetuses.
The answer was “no.”
On May 10, 2004, the sextuplets – Alexis, Aaden, Collin, Leah, Hannah and Joel – were born.
It took at least two to three years for her to accept the impact of their multiple births, she said, and it took working through feelings of anger and loneliess.
As a couple, the Gosselins endured tough times that included Jon’s losses of employment after employers decided the costs to insure his family would be too burdensome.
The peace of God and Bible scriptures pulled her through the tough times, she said, and she refused to worry.
“This was God’s plan for us, for whatever reason,” Kate said.
There were good times, too, of course. The Gosselins received an outpouring of help and support from family, friends and some businesses to help with the costs of raising six infants.
What Jon and Kate couldn’t do in their own strength, God did, Kate said.
“I learned that I am not in control,” she said. “God is.”
The Gosselins’ story continues to inspire many residents, including Marleigh Scialdone, 10, of Marcy.
Marleigh began watching the show with her mother, Deanna Scialdone.
“When my mom had cancer in Rochester, we would call and watch it over the phone,” Marleigh said.
“It was just something for us to do since we were so far apart.”
While on stage Saturday, Kate read questions submitted by audience members, including the one submitted by Marleigh.
Marleigh waited in line for Kate to sign the book, “Multiple Bles8ings: Surviving to Thriving with Twins and Sextuplets,” by Beth Carson and Jon and Kate, and she had a message to share with Kate.
“I’m going to tell her that question is from me, and that I’m really excited to meet her, and that she’s a really good role model,” she said.
Observer-Dispatch
Posted Jan 10, 2009 @ 10:35 PM
Last update Jan 10, 2009 @ 11:02 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MARCY — Looking at the seven round circles on the ultrasound screen overwhelmed Kate Gosselin.
Most people expect one baby, or maybe even twins.
But septuplets?
“Without a doubt, it was the absolute scariest thing I had seen,” Gosselin said.
On Saturday, nearly 600 people turned out at the First Assembly of God hear about that to experience from Gosselin, of the cable television reality show “Jon & Kate Plus 8.” The program airs on TLC.
Jon was not able to make the event.
Poised on a stool in an intimate stage setting, Kate spoke candidly about how she came to terms with being pregnant with what would become six babies after one of the fetuses stopped growing.
She pondered what life would be like for her, Jon and the couple’s fraternal twins, Cara and Madelyn.
And at times the thought of six car seats, six cribs and a vehicle to fit everyone was too much to bear.
Medical staff even asked her whether she and Jon would consider a reduction in the number of fetuses.
The answer was “no.”
On May 10, 2004, the sextuplets – Alexis, Aaden, Collin, Leah, Hannah and Joel – were born.
It took at least two to three years for her to accept the impact of their multiple births, she said, and it took working through feelings of anger and loneliess.
As a couple, the Gosselins endured tough times that included Jon’s losses of employment after employers decided the costs to insure his family would be too burdensome.
The peace of God and Bible scriptures pulled her through the tough times, she said, and she refused to worry.
“This was God’s plan for us, for whatever reason,” Kate said.
There were good times, too, of course. The Gosselins received an outpouring of help and support from family, friends and some businesses to help with the costs of raising six infants.
What Jon and Kate couldn’t do in their own strength, God did, Kate said.
“I learned that I am not in control,” she said. “God is.”
The Gosselins’ story continues to inspire many residents, including Marleigh Scialdone, 10, of Marcy.
Marleigh began watching the show with her mother, Deanna Scialdone.
“When my mom had cancer in Rochester, we would call and watch it over the phone,” Marleigh said.
“It was just something for us to do since we were so far apart.”
While on stage Saturday, Kate read questions submitted by audience members, including the one submitted by Marleigh.
Marleigh waited in line for Kate to sign the book, “Multiple Bles8ings: Surviving to Thriving with Twins and Sextuplets,” by Beth Carson and Jon and Kate, and she had a message to share with Kate.
“I’m going to tell her that question is from me, and that I’m really excited to meet her, and that she’s a really good role model,” she said.
KMart Considers Kate's Layaway Plan
January 15, 2009
Kmart considers bringing back Kate Gosselin as spokeswoman
Following her successful run as a spokeswoman for its holiday layaway plan, Kmart is considering bringing back Kate Gosselin to star in more ads, according to a company rep. The polarizing star of Jon & Kate Plus 8 has been attacked by critics who claim she is exploiting her children for fame and fortune. Kmart rep Tom Aiello says, "She did a good job communicating the layaway program. We're looking to carry that relationship into late spring, but nothing is concrete." He says Kmart has received "positive feedback" on Kate, but "we're going to be smart as we move ahead. We'll look and see if there is a change in opinion."
—Posted by Kenneth Hein
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DqleSsbYvI&eurl=http://www.brandfreak.com/2009/01/kmart-considers-bringing-back-kate-gosselin-as-spokeswoman.html?cid=145389260#comments&feature=player_embedded
Kmart considers bringing back Kate Gosselin as spokeswoman
Following her successful run as a spokeswoman for its holiday layaway plan, Kmart is considering bringing back Kate Gosselin to star in more ads, according to a company rep. The polarizing star of Jon & Kate Plus 8 has been attacked by critics who claim she is exploiting her children for fame and fortune. Kmart rep Tom Aiello says, "She did a good job communicating the layaway program. We're looking to carry that relationship into late spring, but nothing is concrete." He says Kmart has received "positive feedback" on Kate, but "we're going to be smart as we move ahead. We'll look and see if there is a change in opinion."
—Posted by Kenneth Hein
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DqleSsbYvI&eurl=http://www.brandfreak.com/2009/01/kmart-considers-bringing-back-kate-gosselin-as-spokeswoman.html?cid=145389260#comments&feature=player_embedded
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Gosselins buy property in Utah and have 2 dogs
Discovery Channel shoots episode oh father, daughter's love of Park City
Adia Waldburger, of the Record staff
Posted: 01/13/2009 04:54:07 PM MST
When The Learning Channel (TLC) sent the Gosselin family to Park City last winter, it turns out it was familiar territory for one family member. Jon Gosselin, father of twins and sextuplets on the hit show, "Jon and Kate plus Eight" was an avid snowboarder long before he ever set foot in Utah.
The Pennsylvania native grew up snowboarding at Eastern ski resorts, mixing in trips to places like Jackson Hole, Beaver Creek, Vail, and even Chamonix Mt Blanc in France all before age 19. Then "real life," as he calls it, in the form of a wife and more kids than he could count came into the picture and the snowboard was stored. But after The Canyons Resort invited the family and the show to visit last year, an old love affair with the mountains was rekindled after 10 years away.
Gosselin, 31, said he took to the slopes like he had never left.
"It all came back," he said.
The more thrilling part is that his daughter, Cara, age 8, is a natural on the slopes.
Since that trip, Gosselin had been wanting to make skiing and snowboarding a daddy-daughter bonding experience, and last week he finally did something about it.
With the TLC film crew in tow, Gosselin and Cara headed back to The Canyons. When it was time for Cara to head back to school, Gosselin made the decision to stay a few days and make a more permanent mark on the area. He will be purchasing a condo within The Canyons village to give his family a little home away from home in Utah. Well, at least Jon and Cara, that
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
is. Gosselin's wife, Kate, is an admitted indoors type and he figures she won't be in on too many ski vacations.
"I'm looking for a father-daughter place," Gosselin said.
Gosselin says the plan is to have a place to visit each winter and to continue riding on a regular basis. He says that he really enjoys Park City and the Canyons, and even in his 30s, he says that he fits right in with the young crowd on the mountain.
"It's nice because I have eight kids, two dogs and live in Pennsylvania, and I can still hang with 15-year-olds," he said.
Gosselin has been riding with friends and pro riders at the resort and spending the evenings discovering what Park City and Salt Lake have to offer. But he is most excited to set some vacation roots right here.
"You can do whatever you want here. I go places you can connect with people and it feels like a family," Gosselin said.
He had never been in Utah before last year and once said in an interview that all he knew about Utah was "powder, Mormons and Moab." Since then, his world has opened up to the warm community and top-notch snow and it looks like Gosselin will soon be a part-time resident.
Adia Waldburger, of the Record staff
Posted: 01/13/2009 04:54:07 PM MST
When The Learning Channel (TLC) sent the Gosselin family to Park City last winter, it turns out it was familiar territory for one family member. Jon Gosselin, father of twins and sextuplets on the hit show, "Jon and Kate plus Eight" was an avid snowboarder long before he ever set foot in Utah.
The Pennsylvania native grew up snowboarding at Eastern ski resorts, mixing in trips to places like Jackson Hole, Beaver Creek, Vail, and even Chamonix Mt Blanc in France all before age 19. Then "real life," as he calls it, in the form of a wife and more kids than he could count came into the picture and the snowboard was stored. But after The Canyons Resort invited the family and the show to visit last year, an old love affair with the mountains was rekindled after 10 years away.
Gosselin, 31, said he took to the slopes like he had never left.
"It all came back," he said.
The more thrilling part is that his daughter, Cara, age 8, is a natural on the slopes.
Since that trip, Gosselin had been wanting to make skiing and snowboarding a daddy-daughter bonding experience, and last week he finally did something about it.
With the TLC film crew in tow, Gosselin and Cara headed back to The Canyons. When it was time for Cara to head back to school, Gosselin made the decision to stay a few days and make a more permanent mark on the area. He will be purchasing a condo within The Canyons village to give his family a little home away from home in Utah. Well, at least Jon and Cara, that
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
is. Gosselin's wife, Kate, is an admitted indoors type and he figures she won't be in on too many ski vacations.
"I'm looking for a father-daughter place," Gosselin said.
Gosselin says the plan is to have a place to visit each winter and to continue riding on a regular basis. He says that he really enjoys Park City and the Canyons, and even in his 30s, he says that he fits right in with the young crowd on the mountain.
"It's nice because I have eight kids, two dogs and live in Pennsylvania, and I can still hang with 15-year-olds," he said.
Gosselin has been riding with friends and pro riders at the resort and spending the evenings discovering what Park City and Salt Lake have to offer. But he is most excited to set some vacation roots right here.
"You can do whatever you want here. I go places you can connect with people and it feels like a family," Gosselin said.
He had never been in Utah before last year and once said in an interview that all he knew about Utah was "powder, Mormons and Moab." Since then, his world has opened up to the warm community and top-notch snow and it looks like Gosselin will soon be a part-time resident.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Line runs out the door for Kate's Book Signing
GRANDVILLE -- As cable network TLC aired a marathon of Kate Gosselin's hit reality show Wednesday night, more than 1,000 people turned out to see the star of "Jon and Kate Plus 8" in person.
The Gosselin familyGosselin, the mother of twins and sextuplets, was at Barnes & Noble at RiverTown Crossings mall signing copies of "Multiple Bles8ings," the book she and her husband, Jon, wrote about their 10-member family.
The line for her book signing snaked through the store's aisles, out the door and down the mall's main walkway.
Linda Arnold Schuhardt, Barnes & Noble's community relations manager, figured there were at least 1,500 people with about "700 people (in line) just in the store. and the line out of here is all the way down to Sears."
"I'd say we maybe were a little busier with 'Harry Potter,'" she said. "But after that, this is the busiest. It's definitely rivaling 'Harry Potter.'"
Grandville resident Lois Hundley was first in line.
She claimed her spot Wednesday afternoon, four hours before the book signing started. The 68-year-old saved a space for her granddaughter, Haylie Edema, 11, with whom she watches "Jon and Kate Plus 8."
"This is just my favorite show, and my favorite baby to watch it with," said Hundley, patting Haylie on the shoulder. " I would have waited a lot longer than this to meet" Gosselin.
The Gosselins are parents of 8-year-old twins Mady and Cara and 4-year-old sextuplets Collin, Leah, Joel, Hannah, Aaden and Alexis.
The show began in 2007. Cascade Township-based Christian book publisher Zondervan released "Multiple Bles8ings" on Oct. 14, with more than 400,000 copies in print.
Kate Gosselin is in West Michigan to record the audio-book version of "Multiple Bles8ings," Zondervan spokeswoman Karen Campbell said.
Gosselin's 7 p.m. appearance spurred a buying frenzy for the book. Barnes & Noble ran out of its copies before her appearance, and sold out of the more than 400 extra copies Zondervan rushed to the store.
Among the mostly female crowd, 30-year-old Brandon Greer, of Kentwood, stood out. The Forest Hills Public Schools teacher got a book signed for his mother.
"One of her high points each week is seeing Kate on TV, so to get the book signed is completely worth it," said Greer, in line three hours before the signing. "I would have waited six more hours."
He had his picture taken with Gosselin, and said he was impressed with her cheerful demeanor.
"She smiled and laughed and said to say 'hi' to my mom. You could tell she's a very warm person, and really, really nice," Greer said.
Although the line still was spilling out the door at the 10 p.m. closing time, Barnes & Noble staff cut things off. They suggested those still in line attend Gosselin's book- signing at 6:30 p.m. today at Baker Book House, 2768 East Paris Ave. SE, or in Lansing on Friday.
cut things off.
"People have been very gracious, very nice and well-behaved," Arnold Schuhardt said. "And Kate, wow, I can't believe how nice she is. She's personalizing every single book.
"You don't see other authors doing that. But she's got groupies. They're giving her gifts. I've never seen that before."
The Gosselin familyGosselin, the mother of twins and sextuplets, was at Barnes & Noble at RiverTown Crossings mall signing copies of "Multiple Bles8ings," the book she and her husband, Jon, wrote about their 10-member family.
The line for her book signing snaked through the store's aisles, out the door and down the mall's main walkway.
Linda Arnold Schuhardt, Barnes & Noble's community relations manager, figured there were at least 1,500 people with about "700 people (in line) just in the store. and the line out of here is all the way down to Sears."
"I'd say we maybe were a little busier with 'Harry Potter,'" she said. "But after that, this is the busiest. It's definitely rivaling 'Harry Potter.'"
Grandville resident Lois Hundley was first in line.
She claimed her spot Wednesday afternoon, four hours before the book signing started. The 68-year-old saved a space for her granddaughter, Haylie Edema, 11, with whom she watches "Jon and Kate Plus 8."
"This is just my favorite show, and my favorite baby to watch it with," said Hundley, patting Haylie on the shoulder. " I would have waited a lot longer than this to meet" Gosselin.
The Gosselins are parents of 8-year-old twins Mady and Cara and 4-year-old sextuplets Collin, Leah, Joel, Hannah, Aaden and Alexis.
The show began in 2007. Cascade Township-based Christian book publisher Zondervan released "Multiple Bles8ings" on Oct. 14, with more than 400,000 copies in print.
Kate Gosselin is in West Michigan to record the audio-book version of "Multiple Bles8ings," Zondervan spokeswoman Karen Campbell said.
Gosselin's 7 p.m. appearance spurred a buying frenzy for the book. Barnes & Noble ran out of its copies before her appearance, and sold out of the more than 400 extra copies Zondervan rushed to the store.
Among the mostly female crowd, 30-year-old Brandon Greer, of Kentwood, stood out. The Forest Hills Public Schools teacher got a book signed for his mother.
"One of her high points each week is seeing Kate on TV, so to get the book signed is completely worth it," said Greer, in line three hours before the signing. "I would have waited six more hours."
He had his picture taken with Gosselin, and said he was impressed with her cheerful demeanor.
"She smiled and laughed and said to say 'hi' to my mom. You could tell she's a very warm person, and really, really nice," Greer said.
Although the line still was spilling out the door at the 10 p.m. closing time, Barnes & Noble staff cut things off. They suggested those still in line attend Gosselin's book- signing at 6:30 p.m. today at Baker Book House, 2768 East Paris Ave. SE, or in Lansing on Friday.
cut things off.
"People have been very gracious, very nice and well-behaved," Arnold Schuhardt said. "And Kate, wow, I can't believe how nice she is. She's personalizing every single book.
"You don't see other authors doing that. But she's got groupies. They're giving her gifts. I've never seen that before."
Today's Christian Women Talks to Kate Gosselin
TCW Talks to Kate Gosselin
The mom of twins and sextuplets and star of the TLC hit reality show Jon & Kate Plus Eight talks candidly about nagging her husband, trusting her God, and living her crazy life in front of the camera.
Camerin Courtney | posted 1/07/2009
All Kate Gosselin wanted was one more baby.
She and her husband, Jon, had three-year-old twins, Cara and Madelyn (called "Mady"), who had arrived, with the help of fertility treatments, in 2000. Due to Kate's polycystic ovary syndrome, she had to undergo fertility treatments for her second pregnancy as well. The stunning result was not one baby, but six. When Kate's obstetrician suggested selective reduction, both Kate and Jon immediately rejected the idea. "Who would live and who would die was not a decision that rested in our hands," Kate explains.
After months of grueling medical treatments and bedrest (and 65 pounds of baby weight!), Kate gave birth to Alexis, Hannah, Aaden, Collin, Leah, and Joel in 2004. An army of friends and strangers invaded their suburban Pennsylvania home to help with feeding, bathing, changing, and monitoring the bustling brood. Their presence was both life-saving and stress-inducing for uber-organized, type-A Kate.
Intrigued by news reports on the Gosselins' unusual family, producers at Discovery Health filmed Surviving Sextuplets and Twins, which aired in May 2006, as well as Surviving Sextuplets and Twins: One Year Later. These shows eventually birthed Jon & Kate Plus Eight, currently TLC's highest-rated show. Now in its fourth season, the show takes its millions of fans inside the Gosselins' home, where there are strict rules, abundant laughter, frequent nagging, and constant praise for God's provision.
This past November, Kate, 33, and Jon, 31, released Multiple Blessings (Zondervan), a book chronicling their amazing pregnancy and difficult first year as parents of eight (the twins are now eight and the sextuplets, four). Click here to read a chapter from this book, sharing six lessons Kate has learned from being a mom of sextuplets. And read on for our conversation with this exhausted, faith-filled, and refreshingly real woman.
What motivated you to invite the public to watch your life on the TLC show?
I just want people to see realness. From the beginning, I had no desire to paint a sweet little picture of our lives. We did many news interviews after the sextuplets were born, and they always turned out so cute and cuddly. Yes, the babies were cute and cuddly, but those news stories never showed real life. Because in reality, Jon and I argued. We didn't get any sleep. We were so exhausted, we were shaking. We didn't know which end was up.
So when we started the show, I wanted to reveal the truth. We have nothing to hide. We're not perfect; we're the first to admit that. But no family is perfect. And I think that's why people relate to the show.
And yet some people have been critical of the show.
Yeah. I definitely know there's a lot of ugliness out there about us. Honestly, I think a lot of it's because people squirm at how real we are. I think it bothers some people because it makes them think, If cameras were at my house, what would they capture? Would I be okay with that being aired?
Sometimes I wonder why it doesn't bother me that the cameras capture everything we say and do.
Why doesn't it?
I think part of it is that I realize life is a struggle no matter how many kids you have. And that our responsibility is only to God and our family.
Do you feel the show captures you guys accurately?
I do. We actually forget the cameras are there a lot of the time. We don't do anything differently when they're on. Of course, sometimes they'll edit things a certain way for the sake of drama. Over three days I could have three different issues with Jon, and in 23 minutes they're going to show all three of those. So it looks like I melted down several times in a short period of time.
It must be difficult to be cast in a negative light.
A bit. But I understand why they're doing that. And I like that the show captures us in all our messiness.
Overall, I do feel like the show captures our personalities well. It shows how Jon is the peacemaker, the helper, the follower. And it shows how I'm the organized thinker who gets out-of-control in charge at times.
I'll bet those characteristics create some interesting dynamics in your marriage.
Yes! I know it looks like I'm ordering Jon around, but he literally asks me to. He's very happy to follow my lead in the day-to-day decisions of our household. He'd never want to be in charge, even if I said, "That's it. I'm done." And I have said that before.
So I'm a type-A personality who likes to lead. And we really need that in a family of our size. Sure, I control to the point where I wish I could lay off—and everybody else wishes I could too. But that's part of my personality; I feel like there's a plan and we need to follow it.
With these differing personalities and your crazy schedule, how do you and Jon stay connected?
When the babies were born, I was well aware that our marriage could crumble. It was close to doing so at times. But we survived that first year. And then the second one. And then each year after that. Even though the issues have changed, it's never gotten easier.
But Jon and I are more determined than ever that we're in this together. We've told our kids many times that we're always going to be a family. There are no other options. Sure, Jon and I take our stress out on each other, and no, that's not always good or healthy. But we work hard as a team every day.
The life we're leading is so not what we envisioned back when we got married or even after we had the babies. Friends, family, neighbors—nobody understands our strange life. Jon's the only one who gets it. He's in my corner. And that's so wonderful.
Do you get any time just for you in the midst of children and cameras and everything?
I used to think taking a shower by myself was enough, or enjoying a quiet house once the kids went to bed at night. But I finally realized it's like I'm at work all the time.
I don't go to the office and come home; the "office" is always there.
Over the years, if anybody sent me money just for me, I saved it. But a couple months ago, I told Jon I'm using that money to go to the spa once a month. He was all for it. I get a massage and a pedicure. Of course, I still feel guilty leaving him and the kids, but I look forward to that time like you wouldn't believe.
Jon followed suit with regular golf outings. We've realized how important that time away is.
What difference have you noticed since you guys started doing that?
When I come home I've really missed the kids, and I'm ready to jump back in again to all the noise and commotion. Though I admit it takes me about a half hour to get used to the pace again. The time away just makes me a better mom, period. I think I missed that in the early years.
How do you and Jon invest in your family's spiritual life?
Our family attends church together. That's important to us. But I struggle with family devotions. Obviously we have two different age groups in our family—and a lot of noise. So I can't say devotions are happening on a daily basis.
But we do talk a lot about God's blessings and provision. That's a constant conversation in our house, one that started a long time ago when we didn't have enough of something and God provided it. I've always made a point to say, "Oh my goodness, look what Jesus gave us."
So you're instilling gratitude in your kids.
Right. And when we pray before dinner every night, it's not just "Thank you, Jesus, for our food. Amen." It's always Jon and me pouring out the issues of the day—whatever happened that day, whatever we need to trust God for. A lot of times that leads to meaningful family discussions.
Cara and Mady got Bibles recently. They each picked out their own. It's amazing to watch them discover verses for themselves. Mady will read something and say, "Oh, that's a good verse." I'll ask, "What does that mean?" She'll explain it, and I'll be so moved that she totally gets it. I feel like I'm rediscovering Scripture through them.
How difficult is it to have that personal spiritual time with your kids while you've got cameras around?
Truthfully, I wish they'd cover more of our faith. But it's their decision to edit the episodes as they see fit. They've followed us to church.
As far as our personal time, I have a daily e-mail devo that I receive. I do that on my own. I feel poured out and spent so often that I need the encouragement and wisdom Scripture offers.
As a self-described type-A personality, how difficult is it to trust God?
I feel like it took me having sextuplets to realize I'm not in control. Honestly, if I'd never had the kids, I'm sure I never would have learned to rely on God. The pressure of twins and sextuplets is beyond any human capability. I'm to the point now where I'm so much happier to be dependent on God's capable care. I'd never go back to the "easy life" with two kids.
And I'm trying to trust God to have the right response to Jon. I'm still hard on him at times, but I think I'm softening.
That's difficult for any married couple, even without the pressure of twins and sextuplets.
It is. And those lessons aren't learned overnight. It's not like we learn to be more patient once and then we're set. It's a lifelong learning process. It's just all about letting God be in control and trusting his plan for our lives. Besides, what we think is great isn't always his plan. And at this point in my life, I don't want to do anything that's outside his plan, even if that means giving up something I really want or love. Because if it's not his plan, I know he has something better.
That must not be easy for you to say since some of his plan for you has been difficult.
Definitely. It's not like everything has always been rosy. I mean, we really struggled through the pregnancy and that first year with the sextuplets. But now I can honestly say I'm thankful for those seasons of struggle because I'll never take anything for granted.
Kate answers your questions:
You sent us your queries about Kate's crazy life—and she answered:
How important is getting your family to church every Sunday?
And how successful are you in achieving that goal?
Jon and I speak at other churches a lot of Sundays. But whenever we're home, our family is in church together. It's a big priority.
What's your favorite verse?
Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." I have that one posted on our bathroom mirror.
On the show you seem pretty bossy. Do you really get along with your husband?
Yes! I can honestly say Jon is my best friend. He's the only one who, besides God, has been there with me and shared this crazy ride. That's so valuable because the life we live is so unusual.
How much sleep do you get a night, and is it enough?
I get around seven hours of sleep. Jon gets up early and handles the first phase of our morning routine with Cara and Mady. I straggle behind, usually by 7:00 or 7:15.
Do you and Jon get any alone time as a couple?
After the kids are in bed at night, which happens between 8:00 and 8:30. Jon and I are both night owls; we're up until midnight most nights. Actually, I used to go to bed early, but Jon converted me to a night owl a few years ago.
Will the show continue after the sextuplets go to school this fall?
I don't know. You'd have to ask God. We don't ever know where we're going to be and what we're going to be doing. I don't have a grand plan anymore. I'm okay to be wherever God wants us.
The mom of twins and sextuplets and star of the TLC hit reality show Jon & Kate Plus Eight talks candidly about nagging her husband, trusting her God, and living her crazy life in front of the camera.
Camerin Courtney | posted 1/07/2009
All Kate Gosselin wanted was one more baby.
She and her husband, Jon, had three-year-old twins, Cara and Madelyn (called "Mady"), who had arrived, with the help of fertility treatments, in 2000. Due to Kate's polycystic ovary syndrome, she had to undergo fertility treatments for her second pregnancy as well. The stunning result was not one baby, but six. When Kate's obstetrician suggested selective reduction, both Kate and Jon immediately rejected the idea. "Who would live and who would die was not a decision that rested in our hands," Kate explains.
After months of grueling medical treatments and bedrest (and 65 pounds of baby weight!), Kate gave birth to Alexis, Hannah, Aaden, Collin, Leah, and Joel in 2004. An army of friends and strangers invaded their suburban Pennsylvania home to help with feeding, bathing, changing, and monitoring the bustling brood. Their presence was both life-saving and stress-inducing for uber-organized, type-A Kate.
Intrigued by news reports on the Gosselins' unusual family, producers at Discovery Health filmed Surviving Sextuplets and Twins, which aired in May 2006, as well as Surviving Sextuplets and Twins: One Year Later. These shows eventually birthed Jon & Kate Plus Eight, currently TLC's highest-rated show. Now in its fourth season, the show takes its millions of fans inside the Gosselins' home, where there are strict rules, abundant laughter, frequent nagging, and constant praise for God's provision.
This past November, Kate, 33, and Jon, 31, released Multiple Blessings (Zondervan), a book chronicling their amazing pregnancy and difficult first year as parents of eight (the twins are now eight and the sextuplets, four). Click here to read a chapter from this book, sharing six lessons Kate has learned from being a mom of sextuplets. And read on for our conversation with this exhausted, faith-filled, and refreshingly real woman.
What motivated you to invite the public to watch your life on the TLC show?
I just want people to see realness. From the beginning, I had no desire to paint a sweet little picture of our lives. We did many news interviews after the sextuplets were born, and they always turned out so cute and cuddly. Yes, the babies were cute and cuddly, but those news stories never showed real life. Because in reality, Jon and I argued. We didn't get any sleep. We were so exhausted, we were shaking. We didn't know which end was up.
So when we started the show, I wanted to reveal the truth. We have nothing to hide. We're not perfect; we're the first to admit that. But no family is perfect. And I think that's why people relate to the show.
And yet some people have been critical of the show.
Yeah. I definitely know there's a lot of ugliness out there about us. Honestly, I think a lot of it's because people squirm at how real we are. I think it bothers some people because it makes them think, If cameras were at my house, what would they capture? Would I be okay with that being aired?
Sometimes I wonder why it doesn't bother me that the cameras capture everything we say and do.
Why doesn't it?
I think part of it is that I realize life is a struggle no matter how many kids you have. And that our responsibility is only to God and our family.
Do you feel the show captures you guys accurately?
I do. We actually forget the cameras are there a lot of the time. We don't do anything differently when they're on. Of course, sometimes they'll edit things a certain way for the sake of drama. Over three days I could have three different issues with Jon, and in 23 minutes they're going to show all three of those. So it looks like I melted down several times in a short period of time.
It must be difficult to be cast in a negative light.
A bit. But I understand why they're doing that. And I like that the show captures us in all our messiness.
Overall, I do feel like the show captures our personalities well. It shows how Jon is the peacemaker, the helper, the follower. And it shows how I'm the organized thinker who gets out-of-control in charge at times.
I'll bet those characteristics create some interesting dynamics in your marriage.
Yes! I know it looks like I'm ordering Jon around, but he literally asks me to. He's very happy to follow my lead in the day-to-day decisions of our household. He'd never want to be in charge, even if I said, "That's it. I'm done." And I have said that before.
So I'm a type-A personality who likes to lead. And we really need that in a family of our size. Sure, I control to the point where I wish I could lay off—and everybody else wishes I could too. But that's part of my personality; I feel like there's a plan and we need to follow it.
With these differing personalities and your crazy schedule, how do you and Jon stay connected?
When the babies were born, I was well aware that our marriage could crumble. It was close to doing so at times. But we survived that first year. And then the second one. And then each year after that. Even though the issues have changed, it's never gotten easier.
But Jon and I are more determined than ever that we're in this together. We've told our kids many times that we're always going to be a family. There are no other options. Sure, Jon and I take our stress out on each other, and no, that's not always good or healthy. But we work hard as a team every day.
The life we're leading is so not what we envisioned back when we got married or even after we had the babies. Friends, family, neighbors—nobody understands our strange life. Jon's the only one who gets it. He's in my corner. And that's so wonderful.
Do you get any time just for you in the midst of children and cameras and everything?
I used to think taking a shower by myself was enough, or enjoying a quiet house once the kids went to bed at night. But I finally realized it's like I'm at work all the time.
I don't go to the office and come home; the "office" is always there.
Over the years, if anybody sent me money just for me, I saved it. But a couple months ago, I told Jon I'm using that money to go to the spa once a month. He was all for it. I get a massage and a pedicure. Of course, I still feel guilty leaving him and the kids, but I look forward to that time like you wouldn't believe.
Jon followed suit with regular golf outings. We've realized how important that time away is.
What difference have you noticed since you guys started doing that?
When I come home I've really missed the kids, and I'm ready to jump back in again to all the noise and commotion. Though I admit it takes me about a half hour to get used to the pace again. The time away just makes me a better mom, period. I think I missed that in the early years.
How do you and Jon invest in your family's spiritual life?
Our family attends church together. That's important to us. But I struggle with family devotions. Obviously we have two different age groups in our family—and a lot of noise. So I can't say devotions are happening on a daily basis.
But we do talk a lot about God's blessings and provision. That's a constant conversation in our house, one that started a long time ago when we didn't have enough of something and God provided it. I've always made a point to say, "Oh my goodness, look what Jesus gave us."
So you're instilling gratitude in your kids.
Right. And when we pray before dinner every night, it's not just "Thank you, Jesus, for our food. Amen." It's always Jon and me pouring out the issues of the day—whatever happened that day, whatever we need to trust God for. A lot of times that leads to meaningful family discussions.
Cara and Mady got Bibles recently. They each picked out their own. It's amazing to watch them discover verses for themselves. Mady will read something and say, "Oh, that's a good verse." I'll ask, "What does that mean?" She'll explain it, and I'll be so moved that she totally gets it. I feel like I'm rediscovering Scripture through them.
How difficult is it to have that personal spiritual time with your kids while you've got cameras around?
Truthfully, I wish they'd cover more of our faith. But it's their decision to edit the episodes as they see fit. They've followed us to church.
As far as our personal time, I have a daily e-mail devo that I receive. I do that on my own. I feel poured out and spent so often that I need the encouragement and wisdom Scripture offers.
As a self-described type-A personality, how difficult is it to trust God?
I feel like it took me having sextuplets to realize I'm not in control. Honestly, if I'd never had the kids, I'm sure I never would have learned to rely on God. The pressure of twins and sextuplets is beyond any human capability. I'm to the point now where I'm so much happier to be dependent on God's capable care. I'd never go back to the "easy life" with two kids.
And I'm trying to trust God to have the right response to Jon. I'm still hard on him at times, but I think I'm softening.
That's difficult for any married couple, even without the pressure of twins and sextuplets.
It is. And those lessons aren't learned overnight. It's not like we learn to be more patient once and then we're set. It's a lifelong learning process. It's just all about letting God be in control and trusting his plan for our lives. Besides, what we think is great isn't always his plan. And at this point in my life, I don't want to do anything that's outside his plan, even if that means giving up something I really want or love. Because if it's not his plan, I know he has something better.
That must not be easy for you to say since some of his plan for you has been difficult.
Definitely. It's not like everything has always been rosy. I mean, we really struggled through the pregnancy and that first year with the sextuplets. But now I can honestly say I'm thankful for those seasons of struggle because I'll never take anything for granted.
Kate answers your questions:
You sent us your queries about Kate's crazy life—and she answered:
How important is getting your family to church every Sunday?
And how successful are you in achieving that goal?
Jon and I speak at other churches a lot of Sundays. But whenever we're home, our family is in church together. It's a big priority.
What's your favorite verse?
Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." I have that one posted on our bathroom mirror.
On the show you seem pretty bossy. Do you really get along with your husband?
Yes! I can honestly say Jon is my best friend. He's the only one who, besides God, has been there with me and shared this crazy ride. That's so valuable because the life we live is so unusual.
How much sleep do you get a night, and is it enough?
I get around seven hours of sleep. Jon gets up early and handles the first phase of our morning routine with Cara and Mady. I straggle behind, usually by 7:00 or 7:15.
Do you and Jon get any alone time as a couple?
After the kids are in bed at night, which happens between 8:00 and 8:30. Jon and I are both night owls; we're up until midnight most nights. Actually, I used to go to bed early, but Jon converted me to a night owl a few years ago.
Will the show continue after the sextuplets go to school this fall?
I don't know. You'd have to ask God. We don't ever know where we're going to be and what we're going to be doing. I don't have a grand plan anymore. I'm okay to be wherever God wants us.
5 min Time out with Kate Gosselin
5-Minute Time Out: Kate Gosselin
Gwynne Watkins
In an alternate universe, Jon and Kate Plus Eight's Kate Gosselin could have been the mom we all love to hate: children with coordinated outfits, a spotless home, every detail of her life meticulously planned and executed. However, in this universe, Kate Gosselin gave birth to twins, followed four years later by sextuplets — and with her type-A personality subverted by the constant chaos of eight children, she's become one of reality televison's most sympathetic characters. When I went to interview Kate at a New York City Brandsaver promotion, two hundred female fans were lined up outside in the freezing cold, hoping to get a moment with her (along with a handful of Proctor & Gamble coupons). Babble talked to Kate about her obsessive money-saving strategies, why text messaging is her favorite form of communication, and how the Gosselin kids really feel about living on camera. — Gwynne Watkins
So, you're here to talk about saving money. How has your own financial situation changed over the past couple of years?
Well, actually you know, we're still the same. We're still clipping the coupons, saving the money, watching for sales. That's me. I'm still the same person.
Did you ever have a moment of financial panic before the show when you thought, "Oh my God, how am I going to do this?"
Well, seeing as how Jon was unemployed for nearly a year and we had eight kids, yeah! That is when my coupon-clipping and my sale-watching and my literal obsession. I had a "prices/places" book that I started back then and still have, to figure out the cheapest place to buy any number of things — toilet paper, everything toiletry-wise that we buy, food, whatever — down to the tenth of a cent.
You literally keep a list of the prices of every single item you buy at every place you shop?
It's a book that I wrote out. Sam's Club drives me nuts because they keep changing prices by four cents. [Laughs.]
How old were the kids when Jon lost his job?
He lost his job before they were born, because of the pregnancy, and of course I lost my job because of the pregnancy, that goes without saying. He was unemployed for ten months, so we survived. We got smart fast. We learned what to cut out and it was then that I realized that saving money is not optional; it's mandatory.
On the show, we rarely see your kids with anyone except you or Jon. What kind of help do you have?
Very minimal, because we want it that way. We patch our help together as we need it, but it's important that one of us is with the kids 95% of the time. We've always switched our shifts off and on, like Jon would work days, I would work evenings back when we had two kids, and then he would work days and I would work weekends when we had all eight. Now we're blessed enough that we can work from home, but then when I travel he is home, and when he travels I am home. As much as possible, we want to be the ones to raise them, so it's important.
Is he home with them now?
Yes he is, holding down the fort. And he does a good job.
When you check in, do you call and talk to every single kid?
I have him call me. He'll know my general schedule, and then he'll call me because it's loud there and he's got to have the chance. Like, it doesn't help if I'm available at five o'clock but the kids are eating dinner, because he can't hear me. Texting works best. And I always say my motto is "No news is good news." [Laughs.]
What is something people could do to save money that might not occur to them?
I don't think enough people realize that coupons are money. The other thing is, you can save money by really looking at what you spend and shaving down those things that aren't necessary.We all have to buy food, and there are the extra things, the little treats that we all deserve because we work and it's nice, but there's all that stuff in between that you can save a bunch of money just by cutting down.
Is there a sacrifice you've had to make in particular?
Back in the beginning, it was very difficult just to wrap our minds around buying shoes and clothing for eight kids. You know, going from two to eight, obviously the shoe bill alone went through the roof. I feel like we made a lot of sacrifices, but parents make sacrifices for their kids and it's worth it, and you don't think twice about it. If they need new clothes, they get them, and if you need clothing, you're a little lower on the list. You do that because that's what parents do.
What is a common misconception you think people have about you, from watching you on TV?
I know people think that I treat Jon horrendously, which, that's the way we communicate. It's not always wonderful, but you know, I'm working on it. Aren't we all working on our relationships? I think it comes across that we yell at each other, but we're really yelling over the noise a lot of the time. When you have to talk that loud it tends to sound like you're yelling instead of talking, but we're all works in progress and none are perfect.
One thing that comes across on the show is that you are very orderly and like keeping things a certain way. Has having kids caused you to relax at all, or has it made you tighten your grip?
I still like a schedule that runs properly. I still like order. I still like organization. Everything has its place because, with eight kids, if you lose track of those things and you relax too much, it will spin out of control. The flip side of that is, while I still enjoy all of those things, I cannot be as ridiculously over the top as I once was. I feel like in the last year or two I have really started to chill. Like, I've forced myself, whereas once if I saw a crumb on the kitchen floor I would swoop to get it no matter what I was doing, and now, just the other day, I challenged myself to step over it and keep walking. [Laughs.] It's like my own little therapy and I did it, and didn't someone come along behind me and pick it up and throw it away! I made no mention of the crumb, I just stepped over it and someone came along and threw it away, and I thought, "Alright, that works too." But the point is, I have relaxed. I am a lot better than I was. I feel a lot better being that way and I know that if I try control every little facet of every little thing, I'll go insane.
That's really funny; one thing I've noticed since I've had my baby, a little tiny life thing that no one tells you about, is you're carrying him to another room and you drop something, you can't stop and pick it up all of the time.
It's true.
There are all these little tiny ways that you used to have control, and you suddenly don't anymore.
Now take something that little, and add up five of those things and you could maybe go nuts. And that is the truth.
What's been the hardest phase of motherhood for you so far?
The first year, with unemployment, with six additional people in my house. Read Multiple Blessings, you can see that I really, really struggled. Hard, very hard. Love my kids, so glad it's done.
What's an advantage that you have over people with small families?
Well, we have eight times the laughter, eight times the noise. We're a sports team in and of ourselves; we can split into two and be two full basketball teams playing against each other. We Christmas carol and we're a whole Christmas caroling group. We don't even need company to have a dinner party. Those are our advantages, I'd say.
How is your family dynamic changing as the kids get older?
Their personalities are really coming out and we're starting to see who they are and who they will become. The kids are close. They love each other. I'm starting to see, like, by the time they get to high school, don't mess with them! They're a group of six — back off. That tightness is there. We're really starting to see it. They help each other out. They take care of each other when they're sick. That kind of stuff is neat.
Jon said early on in the series that you had a much harder job than he did, being the one to stay home with the kids. Have you ever felt ambivalent about being the one who has that job?
Never. While I enjoy getting to do a little more of this kind of [publicity] stuff, home is where my heart is. I enjoy cooking and providing for the kids in that kind of way, doing the laundry. I'm probably close to the happiest when I'm in my kitchen or doing laundry. I don't like to fold it and put it away, but I do love doing it; it's just those mom processes that I love. I never envied him.
No? If you could switch with Jon's job for a week, would you do it?
I feel like we have switched a little bit recently, but no, back in that day, no. I worked on Saturdays for those years at the beginning of the little kids and I was gone for eighteen hours, every Saturday. By the time I took the leap of faith and quit that job, we still needed the money, but I couldn't take away a Saturday from my family every week. I mean, I was absent. It was huge. So every Saturday for a year and a half after quitting that job, I'd get up and make pancakes and say, "Oh, I'm so glad to be home." I really felt strongly about being at home, and the girls cheered when I told them I quit my job. They had missed me on Saturdays. So that was nice.
You have faced some criticism for having your kids on camera twenty-four hours a day. What's your take on that?
I feel like it's normal and healthy for our family. I feel like we're inspiring and helping a lot of people. I feel like as long as it's safe and healthy and normal for our kids, it's fine. The added benefit of the show that we never forget is, again, we work from home. We work many nights until midnight, finishing up e-mails and things that are due for tomorrow. The kids are playing and living life. It's the hardest job we've ever had, but we're very thankful for it because we can work from home and our kids are with us 95% of the time. Never in a million years did I think that would happen, so I'm really grateful for it. It's working for us and I think that our kids — with the traveling experiences, with the different life experiences that they get — they're all the better for it. I don't expect other people to understand it, because they don't live our lives so they really almost can't say without being in our situation. It's a weird situation, so, that's what I have to say about that.
Do your kids have a sense that other kids don't get followed around by cameras?
No. Little kids at this age, their normal is normal. I'm sure they assume that ever child at school has cameras following them. They'll figure it out later and be like, "Oh, alright. Cool."
Gwynne Watkins
In an alternate universe, Jon and Kate Plus Eight's Kate Gosselin could have been the mom we all love to hate: children with coordinated outfits, a spotless home, every detail of her life meticulously planned and executed. However, in this universe, Kate Gosselin gave birth to twins, followed four years later by sextuplets — and with her type-A personality subverted by the constant chaos of eight children, she's become one of reality televison's most sympathetic characters. When I went to interview Kate at a New York City Brandsaver promotion, two hundred female fans were lined up outside in the freezing cold, hoping to get a moment with her (along with a handful of Proctor & Gamble coupons). Babble talked to Kate about her obsessive money-saving strategies, why text messaging is her favorite form of communication, and how the Gosselin kids really feel about living on camera. — Gwynne Watkins
So, you're here to talk about saving money. How has your own financial situation changed over the past couple of years?
Well, actually you know, we're still the same. We're still clipping the coupons, saving the money, watching for sales. That's me. I'm still the same person.
Did you ever have a moment of financial panic before the show when you thought, "Oh my God, how am I going to do this?"
Well, seeing as how Jon was unemployed for nearly a year and we had eight kids, yeah! That is when my coupon-clipping and my sale-watching and my literal obsession. I had a "prices/places" book that I started back then and still have, to figure out the cheapest place to buy any number of things — toilet paper, everything toiletry-wise that we buy, food, whatever — down to the tenth of a cent.
You literally keep a list of the prices of every single item you buy at every place you shop?
It's a book that I wrote out. Sam's Club drives me nuts because they keep changing prices by four cents. [Laughs.]
How old were the kids when Jon lost his job?
He lost his job before they were born, because of the pregnancy, and of course I lost my job because of the pregnancy, that goes without saying. He was unemployed for ten months, so we survived. We got smart fast. We learned what to cut out and it was then that I realized that saving money is not optional; it's mandatory.
On the show, we rarely see your kids with anyone except you or Jon. What kind of help do you have?
Very minimal, because we want it that way. We patch our help together as we need it, but it's important that one of us is with the kids 95% of the time. We've always switched our shifts off and on, like Jon would work days, I would work evenings back when we had two kids, and then he would work days and I would work weekends when we had all eight. Now we're blessed enough that we can work from home, but then when I travel he is home, and when he travels I am home. As much as possible, we want to be the ones to raise them, so it's important.
Is he home with them now?
Yes he is, holding down the fort. And he does a good job.
When you check in, do you call and talk to every single kid?
I have him call me. He'll know my general schedule, and then he'll call me because it's loud there and he's got to have the chance. Like, it doesn't help if I'm available at five o'clock but the kids are eating dinner, because he can't hear me. Texting works best. And I always say my motto is "No news is good news." [Laughs.]
What is something people could do to save money that might not occur to them?
I don't think enough people realize that coupons are money. The other thing is, you can save money by really looking at what you spend and shaving down those things that aren't necessary.We all have to buy food, and there are the extra things, the little treats that we all deserve because we work and it's nice, but there's all that stuff in between that you can save a bunch of money just by cutting down.
Is there a sacrifice you've had to make in particular?
Back in the beginning, it was very difficult just to wrap our minds around buying shoes and clothing for eight kids. You know, going from two to eight, obviously the shoe bill alone went through the roof. I feel like we made a lot of sacrifices, but parents make sacrifices for their kids and it's worth it, and you don't think twice about it. If they need new clothes, they get them, and if you need clothing, you're a little lower on the list. You do that because that's what parents do.
What is a common misconception you think people have about you, from watching you on TV?
I know people think that I treat Jon horrendously, which, that's the way we communicate. It's not always wonderful, but you know, I'm working on it. Aren't we all working on our relationships? I think it comes across that we yell at each other, but we're really yelling over the noise a lot of the time. When you have to talk that loud it tends to sound like you're yelling instead of talking, but we're all works in progress and none are perfect.
One thing that comes across on the show is that you are very orderly and like keeping things a certain way. Has having kids caused you to relax at all, or has it made you tighten your grip?
I still like a schedule that runs properly. I still like order. I still like organization. Everything has its place because, with eight kids, if you lose track of those things and you relax too much, it will spin out of control. The flip side of that is, while I still enjoy all of those things, I cannot be as ridiculously over the top as I once was. I feel like in the last year or two I have really started to chill. Like, I've forced myself, whereas once if I saw a crumb on the kitchen floor I would swoop to get it no matter what I was doing, and now, just the other day, I challenged myself to step over it and keep walking. [Laughs.] It's like my own little therapy and I did it, and didn't someone come along behind me and pick it up and throw it away! I made no mention of the crumb, I just stepped over it and someone came along and threw it away, and I thought, "Alright, that works too." But the point is, I have relaxed. I am a lot better than I was. I feel a lot better being that way and I know that if I try control every little facet of every little thing, I'll go insane.
That's really funny; one thing I've noticed since I've had my baby, a little tiny life thing that no one tells you about, is you're carrying him to another room and you drop something, you can't stop and pick it up all of the time.
It's true.
There are all these little tiny ways that you used to have control, and you suddenly don't anymore.
Now take something that little, and add up five of those things and you could maybe go nuts. And that is the truth.
What's been the hardest phase of motherhood for you so far?
The first year, with unemployment, with six additional people in my house. Read Multiple Blessings, you can see that I really, really struggled. Hard, very hard. Love my kids, so glad it's done.
What's an advantage that you have over people with small families?
Well, we have eight times the laughter, eight times the noise. We're a sports team in and of ourselves; we can split into two and be two full basketball teams playing against each other. We Christmas carol and we're a whole Christmas caroling group. We don't even need company to have a dinner party. Those are our advantages, I'd say.
How is your family dynamic changing as the kids get older?
Their personalities are really coming out and we're starting to see who they are and who they will become. The kids are close. They love each other. I'm starting to see, like, by the time they get to high school, don't mess with them! They're a group of six — back off. That tightness is there. We're really starting to see it. They help each other out. They take care of each other when they're sick. That kind of stuff is neat.
Jon said early on in the series that you had a much harder job than he did, being the one to stay home with the kids. Have you ever felt ambivalent about being the one who has that job?
Never. While I enjoy getting to do a little more of this kind of [publicity] stuff, home is where my heart is. I enjoy cooking and providing for the kids in that kind of way, doing the laundry. I'm probably close to the happiest when I'm in my kitchen or doing laundry. I don't like to fold it and put it away, but I do love doing it; it's just those mom processes that I love. I never envied him.
No? If you could switch with Jon's job for a week, would you do it?
I feel like we have switched a little bit recently, but no, back in that day, no. I worked on Saturdays for those years at the beginning of the little kids and I was gone for eighteen hours, every Saturday. By the time I took the leap of faith and quit that job, we still needed the money, but I couldn't take away a Saturday from my family every week. I mean, I was absent. It was huge. So every Saturday for a year and a half after quitting that job, I'd get up and make pancakes and say, "Oh, I'm so glad to be home." I really felt strongly about being at home, and the girls cheered when I told them I quit my job. They had missed me on Saturdays. So that was nice.
You have faced some criticism for having your kids on camera twenty-four hours a day. What's your take on that?
I feel like it's normal and healthy for our family. I feel like we're inspiring and helping a lot of people. I feel like as long as it's safe and healthy and normal for our kids, it's fine. The added benefit of the show that we never forget is, again, we work from home. We work many nights until midnight, finishing up e-mails and things that are due for tomorrow. The kids are playing and living life. It's the hardest job we've ever had, but we're very thankful for it because we can work from home and our kids are with us 95% of the time. Never in a million years did I think that would happen, so I'm really grateful for it. It's working for us and I think that our kids — with the traveling experiences, with the different life experiences that they get — they're all the better for it. I don't expect other people to understand it, because they don't live our lives so they really almost can't say without being in our situation. It's a weird situation, so, that's what I have to say about that.
Do your kids have a sense that other kids don't get followed around by cameras?
No. Little kids at this age, their normal is normal. I'm sure they assume that ever child at school has cameras following them. They'll figure it out later and be like, "Oh, alright. Cool."
Shauna Lake Interview with Jon Gosselin
Below is a transcript of more sections of Shauna Lake's interview with Jon Gosselin. Jon and his wife Kate have eight kids; a set of twins and a set of sextuplets.
Jon: Our show is very successful. Jon and kate plus 8 is pretty successful. And we're just giving back right now and it is so rewarding to see a family and be like here's our clothes, here's our stuff. What can we help you with.
Shauna: People want to know, they are dying to know actually, why your parents and kate's parents aren't as involved
Jon: Well my dad died four years and he was like the most involved parent ever. Like mattie and cara miss him so much it is ridiculous and so do i cause he was cool. My mom, she got remarried and moved far away but she does not want to be filmed. And kate's parents are just not involved.
Shauna: In your life's? How come?
Jon: It's just, and they have 19 grandchildren and they aren't involved with any of them.
Shauna: With any of them?
Jon: Any of them
Shauna: But are they part of kate's life?
Jon: Nope
Shauna: So they aren't part of her life either?
Jon: They don't even talk to, it's weird. it's like they left the nest and they left the nest.
Shauna: So is there a chance that you could be moving to utah?
Jon: No, i mean i would love to get a place up here yeah.
Shauna: What do you love the most about here?
Jon: Well i'm like extroverted and love meeting people. And here, and is anyone boring here. It's kind of like california.... but it's kind of cool that everyone comes from a different walk, everyone has their own story.
Shauna: A lot of people in Utah, as you may or may not know, have big families.
Jon: Yeah i know. I get a lot of e-mail from here..
Shauna: So having a family of 8 is not that unusual. How would you articulate having six kids
Jon: All the same age, that's different.
Shauna: Yeah talk about that a little bit
Jon: With eight kids, singling, like the older can watch the babysit the younger ones. not us, like you've got the twins and you've got the six and like they're all going through the same developmental stages. So it's kind of tricky.
Shauna: So you're mr. mom?
Jon: Oh yeah, i hang out with all the moms
Shauna: Does it bug you that..
Jon: I'm not going to lie. At first it really bugged me because it's a prideful thing for a man to like go work, provide for your family. But kate explained it, you are providing. She's like, if you weren't home, then i can't work in new york. You know, so your role is almost bigger.
Shauna: But you have to feel immensely blessed with the life that you have?
Jon: Oh my goodness. The kids, when kate, When Kate was pregnant, they wanted to reduce our kids. and we were so anti-that. um, you know we think god has been blessing us ever since, becasue we stuck it out. Yeah it kind of was hard. I'm not going to say it was easy. We have a show and we have to be parents at the same time, but I just, you can't get hung up on things you have to do it, and you're going to fail. I fail every day. But you have to just keep getting through it.
Jon: Our show is very successful. Jon and kate plus 8 is pretty successful. And we're just giving back right now and it is so rewarding to see a family and be like here's our clothes, here's our stuff. What can we help you with.
Shauna: People want to know, they are dying to know actually, why your parents and kate's parents aren't as involved
Jon: Well my dad died four years and he was like the most involved parent ever. Like mattie and cara miss him so much it is ridiculous and so do i cause he was cool. My mom, she got remarried and moved far away but she does not want to be filmed. And kate's parents are just not involved.
Shauna: In your life's? How come?
Jon: It's just, and they have 19 grandchildren and they aren't involved with any of them.
Shauna: With any of them?
Jon: Any of them
Shauna: But are they part of kate's life?
Jon: Nope
Shauna: So they aren't part of her life either?
Jon: They don't even talk to, it's weird. it's like they left the nest and they left the nest.
Shauna: So is there a chance that you could be moving to utah?
Jon: No, i mean i would love to get a place up here yeah.
Shauna: What do you love the most about here?
Jon: Well i'm like extroverted and love meeting people. And here, and is anyone boring here. It's kind of like california.... but it's kind of cool that everyone comes from a different walk, everyone has their own story.
Shauna: A lot of people in Utah, as you may or may not know, have big families.
Jon: Yeah i know. I get a lot of e-mail from here..
Shauna: So having a family of 8 is not that unusual. How would you articulate having six kids
Jon: All the same age, that's different.
Shauna: Yeah talk about that a little bit
Jon: With eight kids, singling, like the older can watch the babysit the younger ones. not us, like you've got the twins and you've got the six and like they're all going through the same developmental stages. So it's kind of tricky.
Shauna: So you're mr. mom?
Jon: Oh yeah, i hang out with all the moms
Shauna: Does it bug you that..
Jon: I'm not going to lie. At first it really bugged me because it's a prideful thing for a man to like go work, provide for your family. But kate explained it, you are providing. She's like, if you weren't home, then i can't work in new york. You know, so your role is almost bigger.
Shauna: But you have to feel immensely blessed with the life that you have?
Jon: Oh my goodness. The kids, when kate, When Kate was pregnant, they wanted to reduce our kids. and we were so anti-that. um, you know we think god has been blessing us ever since, becasue we stuck it out. Yeah it kind of was hard. I'm not going to say it was easy. We have a show and we have to be parents at the same time, but I just, you can't get hung up on things you have to do it, and you're going to fail. I fail every day. But you have to just keep getting through it.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Upcoming Episodes List
Ok here goes:
FAQ's 1 hour show All you wanted to know about the Gosselins January 19, 2009
The Kids see the house episode January 26, 2009
The Big Move - February 1, 2009
Stay tuned.......
FAQ's 1 hour show All you wanted to know about the Gosselins January 19, 2009
The Kids see the house episode January 26, 2009
The Big Move - February 1, 2009
Stay tuned.......
Kate Gosselin shares her Christmas Secrets and budgeting tips
Kate Gosselin is the mother in the house, she also lives with her husband, Jon, and 8-year-old Cara and Mady and 4-year-old sextuplets Aaden, Joel, Alexis, Hannah, Leah and Collin. Kate shared her Christmas plans and tips for saving money.
Q. What are your plans for Christmas?
A. “We’re just going to continue our Christmas tradition of caroling. And we’ll bake.”
Q. Are you working on songs for this year? “
A. I haven’t started yet. But the kids are older now so they’ll learn faster. Or we’ll do the ones from last year!”
Q. What gifts are the kids asking for? “
A. Well, we have 4-year-olds and I remember this from when Cara and Maddy were 4. They come running and say, ‘Mommy, Mommy, I want this’… and I’ll say, ‘What is it? Where did you hear of that?’ And they’ll say, ‘On TV!’”
Q.What kind of TV do they watch?
A.“They’re Disney kids. And to be honest, our show is their favorite thing. They ask to watch it all the time. It’s interesting. It’s like them watching their memories.”
Q. Would you have ever thought 10 years ago you would be a TV star?
A. “No, it’s ridiculously funny. I just think of myself as a mom so it’s funny when people get all worked up about seeing us. It’s not what I thought I’d ever be doing.”
Q. Rumor has it you are looking to move. Has that happened yet?
A. “We don’t say, but we are planning to move at some point and it will be covered on the show. We’ve outgrown our house. But the show will go on.”
Q. Have you felt the economic crunch?
A. “We all have, but I have always cut coupons. I’ve always looked at the sale fliers and I’ve always planned my meals ahead of time. You know, long before gas prices went up and they were saying ‘group your errands,’ we were already doing that out of necessity.”
Q. The kids are usually dressed alike. Do any of them prefer to dress differently?
A. “They don’t mind either way. At home they open the drawers and dress themselves and you can imagine some of the outfits they come up with. And I don’t fight them any more. I would have fought Maddy and Cara at that age. I did. I’d say, ‘Go back upstairs and change, you’re hurting my eyes.’ But I don’t fight them anymore.
Q.Do the kids know that they’re celebrities?
A.“They don’t understand it. To them, it’s their normal. They’ve been filming since they were 15-months-old and they don’t know any different. And I’ve taught them — and at 4 they understand — that if people are taking pictures, and it bothers you, just say, ‘No, thank you’ and turn your back.”
Q. Do you enjoy doing the show?
A.“The blessings are we get to work from home, we’re there with them. We get to travel. There’s so many experiences that we wouldn’t otherwise have. I feel like it’s making them so well-rounded.”
Q. What are your plans for Christmas?
A. “We’re just going to continue our Christmas tradition of caroling. And we’ll bake.”
Q. Are you working on songs for this year? “
A. I haven’t started yet. But the kids are older now so they’ll learn faster. Or we’ll do the ones from last year!”
Q. What gifts are the kids asking for? “
A. Well, we have 4-year-olds and I remember this from when Cara and Maddy were 4. They come running and say, ‘Mommy, Mommy, I want this’… and I’ll say, ‘What is it? Where did you hear of that?’ And they’ll say, ‘On TV!’”
Q.What kind of TV do they watch?
A.“They’re Disney kids. And to be honest, our show is their favorite thing. They ask to watch it all the time. It’s interesting. It’s like them watching their memories.”
Q. Would you have ever thought 10 years ago you would be a TV star?
A. “No, it’s ridiculously funny. I just think of myself as a mom so it’s funny when people get all worked up about seeing us. It’s not what I thought I’d ever be doing.”
Q. Rumor has it you are looking to move. Has that happened yet?
A. “We don’t say, but we are planning to move at some point and it will be covered on the show. We’ve outgrown our house. But the show will go on.”
Q. Have you felt the economic crunch?
A. “We all have, but I have always cut coupons. I’ve always looked at the sale fliers and I’ve always planned my meals ahead of time. You know, long before gas prices went up and they were saying ‘group your errands,’ we were already doing that out of necessity.”
Q. The kids are usually dressed alike. Do any of them prefer to dress differently?
A. “They don’t mind either way. At home they open the drawers and dress themselves and you can imagine some of the outfits they come up with. And I don’t fight them any more. I would have fought Maddy and Cara at that age. I did. I’d say, ‘Go back upstairs and change, you’re hurting my eyes.’ But I don’t fight them anymore.
Q.Do the kids know that they’re celebrities?
A.“They don’t understand it. To them, it’s their normal. They’ve been filming since they were 15-months-old and they don’t know any different. And I’ve taught them — and at 4 they understand — that if people are taking pictures, and it bothers you, just say, ‘No, thank you’ and turn your back.”
Q. Do you enjoy doing the show?
A.“The blessings are we get to work from home, we’re there with them. We get to travel. There’s so many experiences that we wouldn’t otherwise have. I feel like it’s making them so well-rounded.”
All Smiles Episode
It was funny to see all the kids grown up so much from the last time they went to the dentist! Gotta love Joel do they have Mango flavor, gee somebody wants to go back to Hawaii. Alexis was good this time, no major melt down, Hannah and Leah, hopped right up into those chairs and made their selections for tooth paste! Aaden and Collin, seemed to fair well also especially when Collin asked for his sunglasses!!!! In the end they all have good teeth, and new toothbrushes!
Mady and Cara, are now at the age to get their teeth checked for the orthodontist! Poor Mady she is unhappy with the way that her teeth look, I did think it was funny when Kate said the toothfairy was rearranging them in her sleep! She will need the standard top and bottom braces and Cara seemed to luck out with only a retainer in the next few years. It will prove interesting when the times comes for Mady to get the braces, when she can't have the same snacks that the others are having. It won't be like she has Cara to help out with the fact that she can't have it also just her! Maybe Kate will be able to find some new snacks for her! All in all the appointments seemed to go better than the first ones. Next Episode FAQ's!!!
Mady and Cara, are now at the age to get their teeth checked for the orthodontist! Poor Mady she is unhappy with the way that her teeth look, I did think it was funny when Kate said the toothfairy was rearranging them in her sleep! She will need the standard top and bottom braces and Cara seemed to luck out with only a retainer in the next few years. It will prove interesting when the times comes for Mady to get the braces, when she can't have the same snacks that the others are having. It won't be like she has Cara to help out with the fact that she can't have it also just her! Maybe Kate will be able to find some new snacks for her! All in all the appointments seemed to go better than the first ones. Next Episode FAQ's!!!
Friday, January 9, 2009
Washington Post Article
For This Brood, It's Chaos Times 8
By Sandra G. BoodmanSpecial to The Washington PostSunday, August 3, 2008; Y05
For many viewers of "Jon & Kate Plus 8," the attraction is watching not just two sets of multiples -- 7-year-old fraternal twin girls and 4-year-old sextuplets -- but also their parents' unvarnished marriage.
The weekly series, now in its fourth season, focuses on the lives of a central Pennsylvania family. Jon Gosselin, 31, a systems engineer, and his wife Kate, 33, a former nurse, are the parents of twins Mady and Cara and sextuplets Aaden, Alexis, Collin, Hannah, Joel and Leah.
Every week viewers observe the couple working through the logistical, financial and emotional problems inherent in caring for their unexpectedly large brood, which is the result of fertility treatments.
Like real-life couples, the Gosselins can be snarky and impatient with each other, although they summon impressive reserves of patience and understanding when dealing with their children. "I'm not always proud of what you see on the show, nor is Jon," Kate Gosselin said, but "we're certainly not going to hide our imperfections."
Jon, a master of facial expressions, at times rolls his eyes; he tells his wife, who's averse to anything remotely messy, to "stop flipping out" when their kids get dirty. Kate, displeased by how little she thinks her husband is doing, asks acerbically, "Can we have a 'Kate and Jon Switch' day where I get to stand around and cross my arms?"
But for someone with eight children age 7 or younger, Kate is usually remarkably calm -- not to mention remarkably organized.
Executive producer Wendy Douglas said she believes the couple's periodic sniping is one reason for the show's popularity.
"They don't yell and scream at each other, but many people appreciate it because it's so real. And it's a testament to Jon and Kate that they allow us to shoot all of it," Douglas said.
"I'm actually shocked by the thousands of e-mails that we get from viewers who say that Jon and I" are just like them, Kate Gosselin said in a recent telephone interview, which she interrupted with an emphatic warning to her children "to stop doing that now, please."
Other viewers, she noted, are less sympathetic and write that they are appalled by the couple's bickering.
Gosselin said she told the show's producers she wasn't interested in "painting little pictures and putting a pretty bow on it" -- a fault she found with many media accounts of the sextuplets' 2004 delivery and their first chaotic months at home.
"The goal is to show the world that this job is hard -- a lot harder than Jon and I ever imagined," Gosselin said.
Because a film crew is in their house three to four days per week, and the same team has been involved since the show's inception, she said the couple often forgets the cameras are rolling and just "live our lives."
Gosselin said the couple has no say in what is included in the show, nor is it rehearsed. "I wouldn't have the time" to read a script, she said.
The Gosselins are paid for their participation, but she and TLC officials declined to disclose the fee. Similarly, some perks, such as her tummy tuck and Jon's hair transplant, have been provided free of charge.
The show grew out of a one-hour special that aired in 2006 on Discovery Health. The success of that documentary prompted a one-year follow-up, which spawned the weekly series.
Upcoming episodes this season will feature the couple renewing their wedding vows in Hawaii and the sextuplets starting preschool.
"In the past six months, the individual personalities of the kids have really emerged, and they've become much more expressive," Douglas said. "They're no longer just this clan of sextuplets."
By Sandra G. BoodmanSpecial to The Washington PostSunday, August 3, 2008; Y05
For many viewers of "Jon & Kate Plus 8," the attraction is watching not just two sets of multiples -- 7-year-old fraternal twin girls and 4-year-old sextuplets -- but also their parents' unvarnished marriage.
The weekly series, now in its fourth season, focuses on the lives of a central Pennsylvania family. Jon Gosselin, 31, a systems engineer, and his wife Kate, 33, a former nurse, are the parents of twins Mady and Cara and sextuplets Aaden, Alexis, Collin, Hannah, Joel and Leah.
Every week viewers observe the couple working through the logistical, financial and emotional problems inherent in caring for their unexpectedly large brood, which is the result of fertility treatments.
Like real-life couples, the Gosselins can be snarky and impatient with each other, although they summon impressive reserves of patience and understanding when dealing with their children. "I'm not always proud of what you see on the show, nor is Jon," Kate Gosselin said, but "we're certainly not going to hide our imperfections."
Jon, a master of facial expressions, at times rolls his eyes; he tells his wife, who's averse to anything remotely messy, to "stop flipping out" when their kids get dirty. Kate, displeased by how little she thinks her husband is doing, asks acerbically, "Can we have a 'Kate and Jon Switch' day where I get to stand around and cross my arms?"
But for someone with eight children age 7 or younger, Kate is usually remarkably calm -- not to mention remarkably organized.
Executive producer Wendy Douglas said she believes the couple's periodic sniping is one reason for the show's popularity.
"They don't yell and scream at each other, but many people appreciate it because it's so real. And it's a testament to Jon and Kate that they allow us to shoot all of it," Douglas said.
"I'm actually shocked by the thousands of e-mails that we get from viewers who say that Jon and I" are just like them, Kate Gosselin said in a recent telephone interview, which she interrupted with an emphatic warning to her children "to stop doing that now, please."
Other viewers, she noted, are less sympathetic and write that they are appalled by the couple's bickering.
Gosselin said she told the show's producers she wasn't interested in "painting little pictures and putting a pretty bow on it" -- a fault she found with many media accounts of the sextuplets' 2004 delivery and their first chaotic months at home.
"The goal is to show the world that this job is hard -- a lot harder than Jon and I ever imagined," Gosselin said.
Because a film crew is in their house three to four days per week, and the same team has been involved since the show's inception, she said the couple often forgets the cameras are rolling and just "live our lives."
Gosselin said the couple has no say in what is included in the show, nor is it rehearsed. "I wouldn't have the time" to read a script, she said.
The Gosselins are paid for their participation, but she and TLC officials declined to disclose the fee. Similarly, some perks, such as her tummy tuck and Jon's hair transplant, have been provided free of charge.
The show grew out of a one-hour special that aired in 2006 on Discovery Health. The success of that documentary prompted a one-year follow-up, which spawned the weekly series.
Upcoming episodes this season will feature the couple renewing their wedding vows in Hawaii and the sextuplets starting preschool.
"In the past six months, the individual personalities of the kids have really emerged, and they've become much more expressive," Douglas said. "They're no longer just this clan of sextuplets."
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Gosselins Talk about their faith
In chaos of house with 8 kids, God's in control
Gosselins say their faith makes it possible to deal with 8-year-old twins and 4-year-old sextuplets.
By Ashly McgloneReligion News Service
Posted: Friday, Dec. 26, 2008
Jon and Kate Gosselin are the co-authors of "Multiple Blessings," which details the role their faith plays in raising two sets of multiples. Photo courtesy of Zondervan.
Anyone who has watched “Jon and Kate Plus 8” on TLC has seen Jon and Kate Gosselin attempt to create some semblance of order and peace in a house of eight energetic kids – a set of 8-year-old twins and a set of 4-year-old sextuplets.
The Gosselins' book, “Multiple Blessings,” highlights their test of faith as they faced infertility, the birth of their twins, Cara and Mady, and their sextuplets, Alexis, Hannah, Aaden, Collin, Leah and Joel. Kate, 33, grew up in a non-denominational church, and Jon, 31, was raised Catholic. The family now attends an Assembly of God church.
Q: Anyone watching your house on TV might describe it as controlled chaos, yet your kids are remarkably polite. How do you instill values in your kids?
Jon and I are not always perfect displays of that. I don't think any parents are. I get a million requests a day of “Mommy fill my cup!” And I won't fill it until they say “Please, Mommy, will you fill my cup?”
Q: What do you do to talk to your kids about faith or God?
Jesus, God, he's in everything. The kids will say “Who made that?” and I'll say “Jesus made it.” So now the kids walk around the house saying, “Jesus made my shirt. Jesus made this house.” They're at this fun age where they know when they're afraid of the dark that Jesus is there to protect them.
Q: When you set out to have kids, you wrestled with infertility. What did you say to God?
I was busy trying to control my own life. I knew God was there controlling it but I had trouble owning it. I was trying to do it on my own. But, by God's grace, I got pregnant. I hadn't learned the lesson I think he had wanted me to learn.
The second (pregnancy) was too big for us. I try to control everything – you know that if you watch our show – but I am not in control. God is, and he's there.
Q: You say in the book that you relied on science to treat the infertility, but had to place your faith in “the sovereign plans of an almighty God.” What did that experience teach you?
It taught me that these things can work, but the bottom line is God. Science can only do so much. The outcome is God's decision.…
Q: First you had twins, and then sextuplets. So God must have a really funny sense of humor.
People joked that way. The way I look at it, many people learn experiences through horrible, horrible things, but God chose babies to teach us ours.
Q: On those days when eight kids are driving you absolutely nuts, what do you ask God for?
Obviously patience, but you're never supposed to pray for patience. …
Q: Do you have a favorite Bible verse that helps you get through the crazy days?
Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 40:31 – the one that says those who hope in the Lord will run and not grow weary. Unending strength, that's what I need.
Q: Some viewers might be shocked by the honesty you show in your marriage, and in the book you describe it at as a “thin crust of ice on a frozen pond.” How has your faith helped you keep it together?
It's the reason we are still together. Stress, as much as it can pull you apart, can also pull you together. Thank God that he pulled us together.
Even though you can see Jon and I be gruff and grouchy with each other, he's the only one that's been there from the beginning. At the end of the day he's the only one who really understands.
Q: If there was one lesson that you hope your kids would carry with them the rest of their lives, what would it be?
All of them: God is in control. Trust him.
Gosselins say their faith makes it possible to deal with 8-year-old twins and 4-year-old sextuplets.
By Ashly McgloneReligion News Service
Posted: Friday, Dec. 26, 2008
Jon and Kate Gosselin are the co-authors of "Multiple Blessings," which details the role their faith plays in raising two sets of multiples. Photo courtesy of Zondervan.
Anyone who has watched “Jon and Kate Plus 8” on TLC has seen Jon and Kate Gosselin attempt to create some semblance of order and peace in a house of eight energetic kids – a set of 8-year-old twins and a set of 4-year-old sextuplets.
The Gosselins' book, “Multiple Blessings,” highlights their test of faith as they faced infertility, the birth of their twins, Cara and Mady, and their sextuplets, Alexis, Hannah, Aaden, Collin, Leah and Joel. Kate, 33, grew up in a non-denominational church, and Jon, 31, was raised Catholic. The family now attends an Assembly of God church.
Q: Anyone watching your house on TV might describe it as controlled chaos, yet your kids are remarkably polite. How do you instill values in your kids?
Jon and I are not always perfect displays of that. I don't think any parents are. I get a million requests a day of “Mommy fill my cup!” And I won't fill it until they say “Please, Mommy, will you fill my cup?”
Q: What do you do to talk to your kids about faith or God?
Jesus, God, he's in everything. The kids will say “Who made that?” and I'll say “Jesus made it.” So now the kids walk around the house saying, “Jesus made my shirt. Jesus made this house.” They're at this fun age where they know when they're afraid of the dark that Jesus is there to protect them.
Q: When you set out to have kids, you wrestled with infertility. What did you say to God?
I was busy trying to control my own life. I knew God was there controlling it but I had trouble owning it. I was trying to do it on my own. But, by God's grace, I got pregnant. I hadn't learned the lesson I think he had wanted me to learn.
The second (pregnancy) was too big for us. I try to control everything – you know that if you watch our show – but I am not in control. God is, and he's there.
Q: You say in the book that you relied on science to treat the infertility, but had to place your faith in “the sovereign plans of an almighty God.” What did that experience teach you?
It taught me that these things can work, but the bottom line is God. Science can only do so much. The outcome is God's decision.…
Q: First you had twins, and then sextuplets. So God must have a really funny sense of humor.
People joked that way. The way I look at it, many people learn experiences through horrible, horrible things, but God chose babies to teach us ours.
Q: On those days when eight kids are driving you absolutely nuts, what do you ask God for?
Obviously patience, but you're never supposed to pray for patience. …
Q: Do you have a favorite Bible verse that helps you get through the crazy days?
Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 40:31 – the one that says those who hope in the Lord will run and not grow weary. Unending strength, that's what I need.
Q: Some viewers might be shocked by the honesty you show in your marriage, and in the book you describe it at as a “thin crust of ice on a frozen pond.” How has your faith helped you keep it together?
It's the reason we are still together. Stress, as much as it can pull you apart, can also pull you together. Thank God that he pulled us together.
Even though you can see Jon and I be gruff and grouchy with each other, he's the only one that's been there from the beginning. At the end of the day he's the only one who really understands.
Q: If there was one lesson that you hope your kids would carry with them the rest of their lives, what would it be?
All of them: God is in control. Trust him.
Kate's Recipes
Kate was on Good Morning America and she shared her Meatloaf Recipe with them:
Kate's Hearty Meatloaf Recipe
Meatloaf Recipe Provides Great Dinner and Perfect Leftovers
Oct. 16, 2008 —
Dinner is made easy with this simple meatloaf recipe, and it's perfect for a sit-down meal with your family and friends. Or take it on the go the next day and make a tasty meatloaf sandwich for lunch. Either way, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds and your wallet. For more meal ideas, check out "GMA's" recipe index.
Kate's Meatloaf
makes 10 slices
Ingredients
2 pounds organic ground beef 2-3 eggs Finely chopped (I use food processor on pulse) celery, onion, green pepper, carrots- about 3/4-1 cup of each. About 1½-2 cups of breadcrumbs- Italian seasoned if on hand. Otherwise, plain works too. May need more breadcrumbs depending on the consistency of the meatloaf. About 3/4 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese (whichever's on hand). About ¼ to ½ cup ketchup. About 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning About 1 teaspoon of garlic salt
Directions
Mix all the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl and divide equally into two separate meat loaves. Add a squirt of ketchup to the top of each in a zig-zaggy design. I cover with foil and bake in either a meatloaf pan or a glass bread baking dish at 350 degrees for about an hour (depending on oven) or until bubbly and center is no longer pink.
During the last 15 minutes or so, I remove foil covering and finish baking uncovered.
When there's leftovers (usually I have about half a loaf left over) I put a slice between wholegrain bread with some mayo and ketchup swirled together (a la French dressing!), and a slice of lettuce and tomato too for a delicious meatloaf sandwich for the next day!
Yummy!
Recipe courtesy of Kate Gosselin.
Other recipes of her's are the infamous Monkey Munch
Monkey Munch
9 cup Chex
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Put cereal in large bowl.
Melt chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Pour over Chex cereal, put into a large plastic bag with powdered sugar and shake well to coat. Spread mixture evenly on wax paper and allow to cool.
Peanut Butter Play-Doh:
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey1
cup powdered milk
Knead until smooth but add a dash of flour for texture
Christmas Sticky Buns
Sticky Buns1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 cans (16.3 oz each) Pillsbury® Grands!® Homestyle refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, if desired
1/2 cup raisins, if desired
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
Heat oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease 12-cup fluted tube pan.
In large plastic food-storage bag, mix sugar and cinnamon. Separate dough into 16 biscuits; cut each into quarters. Shake in bag to coat. Arrange in pan, adding walnuts and raisins among the biscuit pieces. Mix brown sugar and butter; pour over biscuit pieces. Bake 28 to 32 minutes or until golden brown and no longer doughy in center. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Turn upside down onto serving plate; pull apart to serve. Serve warm.
Tomato-Onion Salad Recipe
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 large tomatoes, thinly sliced1 medium-size sweet onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Put together the first 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Arrange tomato and onions slices in rows in a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped basil, and drizzle evenly with marinade. Cover it and let it stand at room temperature for at least 2 hours.
Organic Hummus and Pita
1 can organic garbanzo beans
1 organic lime - juiced
2 tbs organic extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic
2 tbs onion
2 tsp garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
pita pocketsDirections
Drain the garbanzo beans and reserve the liquid.
Put all the ingredients in the food processor except for the pita pockets.
You may add lime zest if you like and add the garbanzo bean juice as needed to bring the hummus to a nice dipping consistency.
The Pita pockets need to be toasted.
Tear a piece off the pita bread and dip into the hummus
Korean Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Beef, sliced cross thin 450 gms.Soya sauce 2 tbsps.Sugar 1 tbsp.Black pepper ¼ tsp.Onions, chopped 1" pieces 4 nos.Garlic, peeled/crushed 3 nos.Ginger root, grated 1 tsp.Dry sherry 1 tbsp.Red pepper flakes 1 tbsp.Peanut oil 1 tbsp.Sesame oil 1 tbsp.For the sesame saltSesame seeds, toasted As requiredSalt 1 tbsp.Instructions1.Mix the soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, sesame salt(grind both the ingredients mentioned below sesame salt), pepper, onions, garllic, ginger, dry sherry and red pepper flakes in a bowl.2.Add the beef, mix well and marinate for 1/2 an hour.3.Heat the grill, when hot apply oil to the beef pieces and grill the meat till nicely browned on both sides.4.Once done garnish with sesame seeds.
All recipes developed by Kate Gosselin, on behalf of the Grain Foods Foundation.
Fall Harvest Sandwich
2 slices honey ham1 slice cheddar cheese1 T honey mustard½ Granny Smith apple, sliced thin (optional)2 slices whole wheat bread
Place on one piece of bread in the following order: mustard, cheese, ham, apple slices. Top with the remaining piece of bread. Cut on the diagonal and serve.
PB & Banana
2 slices of whole wheat white bread (also good with oatmeal bread)1 banana, thinly slicedPeanut butter
Spread each slice of bread with peanut butter. Place thin banana slices on one slice. Close sandwich and cut into triangles.
Cream Cheese Roll
1 slice bread (all breads work well)Light cream cheese½ cucumber, sliced length-wise1 slice smoked turkey
Trim the crusts of the bread and gently roll out the slice so it resembles pastry. Spread with light cream cheese. Place the turkey slice in the center of the bread. Add cucumber slices. Roll the bread similar to a sushi roll and cut into mini rolls.
Cream Cheese Roll – Option #2 for adults
1 slice bread (all breads work well)Light cream cheese½ avocado, sliced1 slice smoked salmon
Trim the crusts of the bread and gently roll out the slice so it resembles pastry. Spread with light cream cheese. Place the smoked salmon in the center of the bread. Add avocado slices. Roll the bread similar to a sushi roll and cut into mini rolls.
Handy Hummus Wrap
1 whole wheat (or whole wheat white) wrap2-3 T Hummus2-3 leaves of lettuce½ cucumber, sliced length-wise½ red pepper cut into long strips
Place lettuce leaves in the middle portion of the wrap. Top with hummus. Add slices of cut vegetables. Roll and cut in half.
Kate's Hearty Meatloaf Recipe
Meatloaf Recipe Provides Great Dinner and Perfect Leftovers
Oct. 16, 2008 —
Dinner is made easy with this simple meatloaf recipe, and it's perfect for a sit-down meal with your family and friends. Or take it on the go the next day and make a tasty meatloaf sandwich for lunch. Either way, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds and your wallet. For more meal ideas, check out "GMA's" recipe index.
Kate's Meatloaf
makes 10 slices
Ingredients
2 pounds organic ground beef 2-3 eggs Finely chopped (I use food processor on pulse) celery, onion, green pepper, carrots- about 3/4-1 cup of each. About 1½-2 cups of breadcrumbs- Italian seasoned if on hand. Otherwise, plain works too. May need more breadcrumbs depending on the consistency of the meatloaf. About 3/4 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese (whichever's on hand). About ¼ to ½ cup ketchup. About 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning About 1 teaspoon of garlic salt
Directions
Mix all the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl and divide equally into two separate meat loaves. Add a squirt of ketchup to the top of each in a zig-zaggy design. I cover with foil and bake in either a meatloaf pan or a glass bread baking dish at 350 degrees for about an hour (depending on oven) or until bubbly and center is no longer pink.
During the last 15 minutes or so, I remove foil covering and finish baking uncovered.
When there's leftovers (usually I have about half a loaf left over) I put a slice between wholegrain bread with some mayo and ketchup swirled together (a la French dressing!), and a slice of lettuce and tomato too for a delicious meatloaf sandwich for the next day!
Yummy!
Recipe courtesy of Kate Gosselin.
Other recipes of her's are the infamous Monkey Munch
Monkey Munch
9 cup Chex
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Put cereal in large bowl.
Melt chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Pour over Chex cereal, put into a large plastic bag with powdered sugar and shake well to coat. Spread mixture evenly on wax paper and allow to cool.
Peanut Butter Play-Doh:
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey1
cup powdered milk
Knead until smooth but add a dash of flour for texture
Christmas Sticky Buns
Sticky Buns1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 cans (16.3 oz each) Pillsbury® Grands!® Homestyle refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, if desired
1/2 cup raisins, if desired
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
Heat oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease 12-cup fluted tube pan.
In large plastic food-storage bag, mix sugar and cinnamon. Separate dough into 16 biscuits; cut each into quarters. Shake in bag to coat. Arrange in pan, adding walnuts and raisins among the biscuit pieces. Mix brown sugar and butter; pour over biscuit pieces. Bake 28 to 32 minutes or until golden brown and no longer doughy in center. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Turn upside down onto serving plate; pull apart to serve. Serve warm.
Tomato-Onion Salad Recipe
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 large tomatoes, thinly sliced1 medium-size sweet onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Put together the first 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Arrange tomato and onions slices in rows in a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped basil, and drizzle evenly with marinade. Cover it and let it stand at room temperature for at least 2 hours.
Organic Hummus and Pita
1 can organic garbanzo beans
1 organic lime - juiced
2 tbs organic extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic
2 tbs onion
2 tsp garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
pita pocketsDirections
Drain the garbanzo beans and reserve the liquid.
Put all the ingredients in the food processor except for the pita pockets.
You may add lime zest if you like and add the garbanzo bean juice as needed to bring the hummus to a nice dipping consistency.
The Pita pockets need to be toasted.
Tear a piece off the pita bread and dip into the hummus
Korean Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Beef, sliced cross thin 450 gms.Soya sauce 2 tbsps.Sugar 1 tbsp.Black pepper ¼ tsp.Onions, chopped 1" pieces 4 nos.Garlic, peeled/crushed 3 nos.Ginger root, grated 1 tsp.Dry sherry 1 tbsp.Red pepper flakes 1 tbsp.Peanut oil 1 tbsp.Sesame oil 1 tbsp.For the sesame saltSesame seeds, toasted As requiredSalt 1 tbsp.Instructions1.Mix the soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, sesame salt(grind both the ingredients mentioned below sesame salt), pepper, onions, garllic, ginger, dry sherry and red pepper flakes in a bowl.2.Add the beef, mix well and marinate for 1/2 an hour.3.Heat the grill, when hot apply oil to the beef pieces and grill the meat till nicely browned on both sides.4.Once done garnish with sesame seeds.
All recipes developed by Kate Gosselin, on behalf of the Grain Foods Foundation.
Fall Harvest Sandwich
2 slices honey ham1 slice cheddar cheese1 T honey mustard½ Granny Smith apple, sliced thin (optional)2 slices whole wheat bread
Place on one piece of bread in the following order: mustard, cheese, ham, apple slices. Top with the remaining piece of bread. Cut on the diagonal and serve.
PB & Banana
2 slices of whole wheat white bread (also good with oatmeal bread)1 banana, thinly slicedPeanut butter
Spread each slice of bread with peanut butter. Place thin banana slices on one slice. Close sandwich and cut into triangles.
Cream Cheese Roll
1 slice bread (all breads work well)Light cream cheese½ cucumber, sliced length-wise1 slice smoked turkey
Trim the crusts of the bread and gently roll out the slice so it resembles pastry. Spread with light cream cheese. Place the turkey slice in the center of the bread. Add cucumber slices. Roll the bread similar to a sushi roll and cut into mini rolls.
Cream Cheese Roll – Option #2 for adults
1 slice bread (all breads work well)Light cream cheese½ avocado, sliced1 slice smoked salmon
Trim the crusts of the bread and gently roll out the slice so it resembles pastry. Spread with light cream cheese. Place the smoked salmon in the center of the bread. Add avocado slices. Roll the bread similar to a sushi roll and cut into mini rolls.
Handy Hummus Wrap
1 whole wheat (or whole wheat white) wrap2-3 T Hummus2-3 leaves of lettuce½ cucumber, sliced length-wise½ red pepper cut into long strips
Place lettuce leaves in the middle portion of the wrap. Top with hummus. Add slices of cut vegetables. Roll and cut in half.
Soup and a Suprise Episode
I must say that I never thought twice about putting a hot cover or plate on my glass stove top, well after the opening 5 min of the show, I was take back with how it can just explode and crack. I got a good laugh when Jon was helping out shaking out the rugs right near the soup pots, that is a way for a guy to help and try to get it done quickly while the woman is trying to keep up with making the meal.
The big suprise is they are moving, I guess they are moving to Wernersville, PA to a house that is off the road and offers they more privacy. Can you blame them? Recently I guess fans were driving by taking pictures of the kids playing and the house. I guess the move took place at the end of season 4 which in TV time could be Sept for all we know. I did however find this article that says that they were in their new house for Christmas.
The big suprise is they are moving, I guess they are moving to Wernersville, PA to a house that is off the road and offers they more privacy. Can you blame them? Recently I guess fans were driving by taking pictures of the kids playing and the house. I guess the move took place at the end of season 4 which in TV time could be Sept for all we know. I did however find this article that says that they were in their new house for Christmas.
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/image/20081217_12_days_of_Christmas_with_Jon___Kate_plus_8.html
The link above is the article about how they spent their Christmas this year, alot more frugal than last year, and a new computer to let Jon spend more time with the kids one on one.
Enjoy
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
