Answering Your Biggest Questions!

[@LessThanSarah]

I want to preface this by saying that I am 34 with no children (and no desire to have them), a full time job, and a masters degree. I have tattoos and piercings and spend a lot of time watching horror movies and listening to rock music. In short, I have very different views on and in life than you, but I truly enjoy your videos. They make me smile. I see a family living life. I see kids being kids (and incredibly happy kids at that). I see a mom and dad who are doing their best for their kids, and I see kids who love their mom and dad. Being a mom is hard. There’s a reason I decided it wasn’t for me. And I’m sorry people who don’t know you can be so judgmental and just make it worse.

[@followtheforsyths5]

😭🥹 thank you!🩷

[@ZHab336]

@BrianD81881it’s was her choice, joy didn’t ask, plus in the video Joy “spilled a lot of her guts” too so 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@naomibeery8098]

​@BrianD81881 shes a busy mom of with lots of comments. Most youtubers dont even respond.

[@debbieyuki7895]

@BrianD81881that was totally unnecessary. She responded with showing how she was feeling about the kind comment.

[@naomibeery8098]

I have been a little curious why women of the younger generation dont want children. I feel like conservative women still want to be moms and they have chosen supportive husbands. Just curious if its no interest in giving a life, would they rather focus on themselves, dont think they would do well...whats with this trend?

[@ellyne3863]

Thank you for being so real Joy, and not being a "I'm loving every moment" mom (which obviously is never the case for anyone). You're helping other moms more than you know!

[@trishaloiselle6710]

I am 52 and going to be starting to go to therapy. I feel it may help me. Keep that in the back of your mind….it is ok to have an outside person who can help sort through your feelings.

[@enjoyingmyvodka1013]

Agreed

[@robinkohl9827]

I appreciate your openness. I’ve followed your family for years, so is really great to see how well you are doing. Figuring out what YOU really want to do as hobbies, like dance lessons with Austin. We only see about 30 minutes of your life per week, but it seems to me you two are really great parents.

[@allijo514]

Your tact, grace, articulation and maturity are so refreshing. You're still our "Little Joy" we all watched grow up on TV, but you've grown into such a wholesome and honest woman.

[@Gardendreamsforme]

The Only person who was perfect enough to throw stones, Didn’t… period People need to respect others

[@karenkeady2337]

When you're on an aeroplane you are told that in times of trouble see to your own mask first so you are able to look after others. As a mother of only one child, I know that time on your own is invaluable. Don't feel guilty for needing space, it's the hardest job you'll ever do. You do it brilliantly. But look after yourself too. X

[@cmarie1209]

Thank you for sharing this! I’ve had a rough week due to my chronic illness, and it’s been tempting to slip into self-pity and feel jealous of healthy people who seemingly have normal lives. But your video is a refreshing reminder that everyone has hidden struggles, and we can all still find reasons to feel grateful and blessed.

[@susanbeth74]

I also struggle with chronic illness, so I understand what you are going through. I hope you feel as best as you can soon! God bless!

[@pickinforalivin]

it is sweet of you to share your emotional challenges, it helps to know we are all not alone. you and your family are in my prayers.

[@fruttojuli_blog_Astrolog]

and in my too😌😌🇺🇸

[@Amberrr_0080]

I've seen many people our age saying that we are resorting back to 'Grandma and Grandpa' hobbies- but I think it's fun! I knit and crochet and have even started an interest in growing my own plants which is so weird! I've never been that way before, nor did I ever think I would be one of those people.

[@annamineer2521]

I started growing food, medicinal plants and learning to make medicines and preserve food at 53. 😊

[@AdventureAllTheWay]

Yes! I love knitting and punch needle embroidery. So soothing ❤

[@MM-d289]

Thank you, Lord.🙌. As an older person, I thank God that any young person takes an interest in what is real and natural and God-made instead of man-made, artificial stuff.

[@Susiegmc85]

Im 38, married with no kids (by choice). I will have my masters degree by end of the year. I would say we probably have zero in common (im not religious or an outdoor person) but I appreciate you wanting to put yoursef out there and be your real authentic self. No one is perfect, anyone who says otherwise is dillusional. Having been in the spotlight oh so briefly myself its hard watching people judge you without actually knowing you. The important thing is to be true to yourself and forget the judgemental ones, because they obviously have nothing better to do than sit on their high horse and judge you.

[@The_One_and_Only996]

It’s okay to feel your feelings. Outside counseling may help. We are not expected to be happy all the time and you shouldn’t feel bad about it.

[@rootelation486]

Perfectly said

[@nancyfarkas3592]

Not everyone needs counseling

[@pamswafford9994]

You are so wise Joy. Everyone that says they are happy every day or all the time are not genuine. Adjustment as a mom is hard. I am so glad you are not fake and that’s what I love about your family too❤hang on to your relationship with Jesus

[@charliesimmons2312]

You are such a breath of fresh air! I love your sweetness and honesty. And can we take a moment to say how stinking cute Gunner is!? What a cutie pie. All of your kids are so amazing. Good job, Mama!

[@randomroz545]

Sounds like you're human- and a fine one at that. Never listen to the negativity. Anybody who has watched you over the years, even though it's not really knowing you, should know how great of a person you are. I'm proud of you being a young wife and mother how mature and patient you can be. You are giving your kids a great life and you are present. That is the best anyone can ask for. I always say we shouldn't strive for happiness, rather contentment. Happiness is an elevated state and not the usual condition. But to be content for the most part is the sweet spot. You've had a lot of change in 5 yrs and under a spotlight far more than most people ever will be. You're a-ok kiddo! Blessings, love and light to you Joy! Thank you for sharing! 🤗

[@DeeAnnGunter]

This Q&A was so genuine and unscripted. Just honest answers from a sweet little momma who is being transparent. Who is honestly showing she’s doing the best she can and doesn’t claim to be perfect. She’s human and can be hurt by others who do not even know her. I’m so sorry for that too. I cannot imagine. I also she your love that shines through. It’s evident that you know where your strength comes from and you can lean into His love for you. Keep that up!! You’re keeping it “real” and that is so refreshing….the good, the bad & the ugly 😊. I hope you can find a “hobby” that will give you enjoyment that’s perfect for you. I’m 61 years old and this hit me. I could relate & remember a lot of what you’re in the midst of (not all, of course). But you’re a precious little momma who’s trying her best everyday for the ones she loves and that’s all you can do. Keep it up girl!!💪🏻❤️😊

[@susanspence3029]

No one has a perfect life. Your a mom of 3 littles. Kudos for you for being positive. Motherhood is no joke, especially being a stay at home mom. You got this Joy! Embrace the moments, and reach out for help when you need alone time.

[@elkonian]

Joy, you are such an honest, thoughtful and down to earth person. You're a wonderful inspiration for other young moms to follow.

[@fruttojuli_blog_Astrolog]

Joy is pure inspiration, adore her❤❤

[@MARIONCunningham-b9b]

You sharing from the heart will help many young woman. Try not to be too hard on yourself as you are a young mom of 3 adorable children and are doing a great job with them. It’s understandable that you would be tried/ exhausted as it’s a lot of work. It’s also ok to admit that you had a rough time with the little ones and need a break ie. maybe your younger sisters can help out to give you some breathing room. Wishing for you all God’s Blessings.❤🇨🇦

[@brittanyhook6890]

I appreciate how you talked about not every moment being a happy moment. I wish everyone was this honest.

[@leannelrod7046]

So many people are against your family due to the media coverage I love the way you said each of you are individuals. You are a beautiful light in this world and such a caring mom. You cannot change people’s ideas about your family but you are showing everyone how to live life to the fullest and focus on things that truly matter Never change anything about yourself

[@jeanblanco2717]

Joy you are such a sweet girl!! You are so genuine! Hang in there! You are doing a great job!

[@laurapowellwatson6861]

I am 76 yrs old and birthed 7 Children Lost my first born when he was 15 and a half months old I feel I can relate to your life My experience as a mother were the best days of my life. I found my third and fifth children were my most difficult transition An attitude of gratitude ( even though there were days of failure) made life doable. My words of wisdom would be a goal of looking back and realizing the best days of my 76 year life were being a Mom🕊️💜

[@Maquillage79]

My mother said the same thing , the best years of her life were when she was raising kids . But her life was so busy back then to take the time to appreciate and be in the moment .

[@randomroz545]

Oh and p.s. I don't really have hobbies! I like doing family activities. Basically going anywhere fun that kids would like is what i enjoy. Pumpkin patch, zoo, amusement parks, vacations, road trips, whatever that's fun to me. I like baking. I like to watch shows. Never been a hobbyist and that's ok!

[@sweetsound1339]

I lost my baby boy Liam at 20 weeks pregnant in Nov 2022. Then, I gave birth to our 4th son, Truett, back in Oct 2023. I know that pain of losing a baby. Thank you for sharing your sweet family on here. Your babies are precious! This postpartum period has been interesting for me as well mostly emotionally/mentally. So this was very relatable for me! ♥️

[@candeebishop5736]

You are a woderfull Momma. Raising kids is the most difficult job you will ever love! Gideon would love sports and Evie ....she is such a performer. G8ve yourself grace. This is the modt difficult time ...being a stay at home Mom❤

[@evangelicful]

Praying for you Joy! Dont let the darkness of social media get to you! Evil will drag us down if it can..so put on your armor daily!! God bless!

[@brandic3612]

Gunner is precious!!! I have never seen him do anything but smile. You're so lucky, he's so sweet! You're doing a great job, don't be so hard on yourself. I love your little family.

[@angelriddle8184]

You made a comment many years ago about happiness coming from circumstance and joy coming from the lord and I’ve really used that phrase in my life to not let circumstance dictate my emotions and what I put out into the world. Thank you for sharing.

[@UnashamedJesuslover]

Praying for you sister! I am a single mama and i needed to hear this, thank you Joy and i praise God for your husband reminding you and pointing you to The Lord!! What a blessing that is.

[@JusticeEnlow]

As a first-time mom who is still in her first year postpartum, thank you for being so transparent with your postpartum experience. I could relate to so much of what you were saying. Its been a hard year postpartum, but God is using it. Praying for the Lord to continue to heal and balance your hormones!

[@lynn7348]

Yes....keeping a gratitude journal reminds me how blessed I am and gives me the joy I desire. I definitely recommend a gratitude journal 😊❤️

[@mimismum73]

My children are grown up now but still living at home and i still have unhappy days. Being a parent is very difficult no matter how old your children are. You are both doing a great job, be kind to yourself 😊

[@saryanwillemse]

Just want to let you know it is totaly normal how you feel. Getting older means changing interests. I have been there. You have beautifull goals and a wonderfull husband who is supporting you. Life is a long race, you have time to figure this all out.

[@SherrieRead]

You have a sweet and honest heart!!! Thank you for sharing!

[@ladykatietx]

Thank you for being honest about the ups and the downs of motherhood. Being a mom is so hard, and it is work to choose joy. It helps to hear from someone who is very positive person in general that even you have some bad days. I'll be praying for you. ❤

[@Oceanic710]

I love your family . And I am glad you guys are all getting along. That’s what’s important .

[@cherylphelps8235]

Praying for you Joy. My 3 kids are all adults now but you brought me back to when I had 3 under the age of 5. I felt like I lost myself in "just being a mom" but I know now that is so far from true. Being a Mom is one of the best ways to find out who you truly are. They make you seek God for wisdom and grace. Hobbies can wait while you enjoy your precious kiddos. ❤

[@Adriana_Rantonio]

I struggle deeply with depression. I don’t look to be happy every day. I love for just having an OK day. Your feelings are always valid and sometimes a good cry alone helps release those built up emotions. ❤

[@emilymayfield8068]

Praying for you!

[@ellieroberts1992]

Thank you for being open and honest! Thank you for showing that everything isn't perfect all the time, like 90% of others on the internet. Even though your childhood was in the spotlight, you're still human! You're a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and aunt who goes through the same ups and downs as everyone else. I love watching your videos and seeing who Joy is!

[@WeAreCaylee]

You are blessed but you're also human! It's okay to feel the negative feelings. It's unhealthy to repress those feelings. Austin seems to have a healthy way to pull you out of them and that's good. 💞 You made such a great point about the first kiss. No one should have their first intimate moment in front of a bunch of people. I never thought of it that way.

[@josettecouchot4572]

Hi Joy! I've watched your family since the very first TV special and you've always been my favorite Duggar! You're a beautiful woman, a wonderful mother and child of God . Thank you for bringing so much JOY to so many people! God Bless! ❤

[@klsyboo]

Joy you are such a blessing to us moms. You are honest, open, and real. I struggled with PPD as well. Being a mom is hard. I had to learn It’s ok to not be ok and to not be perfect and to not be able to do it all. Thank you for being real. I have watched your family since the beginning when we were young kiddos and enjoy your videos now that we are grown. You are a blessing ❤

[@Lea2008-k8b]

Joy, thank you for saying “God doesn’t want us doing something out of duty” he wants to have a relationship with us”. It took me YEARS to understand that. God is our father, and he loves us. I am a Mom, I don’t sit back and wait for a mistake to be made, I want to look at them as they are, grown adults that are trying to figure life out. God is so much better at this parenting thing.

[@lekenaackerman9367]

Gunner is such a smiley baby!! 😊😊😊

[@joanneschwartz3753]

Thank you for sharing and answering tough questions. God bless you, Joy! ❤️🙏

[@stephaniehenderson6631]

It actually gladdens my heart to hear you say that God has knocked you down to lift you up. It reminds me of baking bread where the dough rises but then you knock it down again by kneading and pummelling to let it rise again and produce the best loaf. I pray that others will be encouraged by your honesty in your journey. Always remember how precious you are to God and how he delights in you just as you are, but that he wants the absolute best for you too xx

[@dionline88]

Personally, I think the way Jessa & Ben had their first kiss was the best idea. As for your 'happiness', guess what? You're normal. Everybody else feels the same way - each & every one of us has our good days & our bad days. Glad to hear you're one of the crowd!!

[@jackiemontogmery125]

Your a smart young woman to trust your heart to the Lord. You are working so hard to study your Bible and listen to Him. You are a kind, caring Mom & I imagine a loving wife. Who yes is human like all of us, Joy. God Bless you and your precious family. Grammy from Texas

[@shannonmcmullen3916]

I appreciate your open and honesty Joy!!! Thank you also for being bold with your faith! I love that you said that being happy is based on happenings and that your Joy comes from Lord!!! Amen!! Austin's advice is soooo good!!! Even though you might not want to hear it sometimes, good for you for acknowledging it!!! Thank you for sharing that you want to be known for you and your little family!!! Thats absolutely fair to express!!!! Your biggest prayer for yourself is one that we should all pray!! You are such an encouragement and an inspiration!!! Im new to your channel but love it already!!!! Just wanted to tell you that you are beautiful!!! Inside and out!!!! My middle name is Joy, so I feel a connection to you in a way...lol!!!! Cant wait to get to know you more and your family!!! Blessings on you Joy!!!!

[@MM-d289]

I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know you better as a person through this video, especially your spiritual journey. You are not alone. I can tell you that MANY believers are going through some intense shaking during this season. It’s for a reason. God is shaking everything that can be shaken. He wants us dependent wholly on Him. The process we go through to get there can be painful. But He is Faithful and True. God bless you, Joy.🕊

[@lynnoaks7884]

Thank you Joy for just being you. My doctor had advised me not to have another child til my first was 2. The hormones need time to calm down and get back to normal, as does the body, mind and spirit. Nursing babies takes its toll on the body. I also had terrible PMS and it really got me down each month. Make sure you take 15 minutes of me time each day, even if it is lying on the floor meditating. You are doing fine!!

[@shelleyjacobs7871]

You're a good person and have a wonderful husband and beautiful family and no one has the right to judge you. When you allow other people's negativity into your life and allow it to bother you then negativity has won. I pray for those that spew negativity that God blesses them with positivity. Kindness breeds kindness and hatred breeds more hatred. No need for hate. Spread kindness.

[@joannepreston611]

Joy crazy be crazy. Don't try to explain yourself. You don't have to in spite of the inclination to do so. I just enjoy seeing the your family enjoying life. It's not anyone's place to judge. Keep on being you!

[@rinaticson390]

Joy and Austin, you two have beautiful family. Please don't let the naysayers get to you. You don't have to explain anything unless you feel like it. When i was a teenager and in my 20s ,i didn't want children either . But ,then i met my husband and he was the reason I changed my mind about it, we now have 3 adult children that are your ages. It was the right person . Bless your family

[@niccispooner3579]

You are my Favourite member of the Duggar family I feel like I’ve known you for ever watching you grow into a beautiful women with your own beautiful family you should be so proud ❤of

[@siskate100]

Thank you for addressing the comment regarding wishing people would get to know you as an individual. I get so frustrated and yes angry, when I see bloggers speaking about any of you and stating things as fact. I admire and respect you so very much. I hope you’re able to continue to block out any negativity and continue to recognize that many really do enjoy getting to know you and your beautiful family.

[@SweetPea6348]

Joy, You are Pretty!! And, Never,, Ever Push Yourself too hard at losing weight!! My mom told me 37 yr.s ago, When I had my daughter,,, That it took her 8 -12 Months to lose the weight!! I just gained 25 lbs. , But Mom said that she gained 60 with me!!! So Please don't be so hard on yourself!!

[@57msdeb]

I love watching your real life videos. Gratitude is the answer to a bad mood, but it’s normal to have times like that, Joy. We all do. You are spread very thin with three little ones. I’d be surprised if you weren’t tired and cranky sometimes. God bless you and your family.

[@windybryant3442]

Joy, you are a kind, loving mom & it shows. Your kids are awesome & So Happy! In order to get out & take some time, you could hire your siblings to watch your kiddos once a week. Who knows, that might give you the mental break to find exactly what your interests are!

[@jeremybilbrey1133]

I want to say, you guys are amazing people. You have gone through a lot and are survivors. don't let anyone tell you any different.

[@Melissa-jq2qn]

Thank you for having such honesty with the question about are you always happy. Being a mom is a tough, but also, very rewarding job. My kids are 4, 5, 8, 11, 13 and there are definitely hard days.

[@aubreyhofgren8594]

This was such a good Q&A! I came away very encouraged. I have two toddler boys and stay at home with them/homeschool my 4 yr old. It is very hard some days! And I have some women around me who don’t seem to remember having high-energy toddlers or having rough days with them. It is discouraging and I feel like it’s just me sometimes. One woman (who I love) told me she doesn’t remember a rough age with her (almost grown now-boy. ). She didn’t mean anything bad, I asked her if she remembered any hard time. I LOVE my kids more than anything or anyone either then God and my husband. But- they are very busy kids, and I lose my patience sometimes. Which is also something I am praying for help with, and really praying for wisdom on how to be the patient, gentle Mom I want to be and to know the best way to discipline. So I just wanted to say thank you for your honesty in saying that you have hard times too- and helping me feel not so alone. ❤️I will be praying for you, as well. Thanks for the encouragement:)

[@louisehardenberg5840]

The book by Michaleen Doucleff about how indigenous communities raise children is great 😊 It's filled with useful examples of how she mastered situations with her 3-year-old Rosie. I highly recommend it!

[@A-G5518]

I wasn't much for hobbies when I was younger.. Mostly because I didn't have many opportunities and wasn't taught any skills or hobbies growing up.. but now I'm 35 and I'm full on "old lady" mode, haha! I've been teaching myself canning, gardening, sourdough bread, a little sewing.. and I absolutely love all of it so much! It brings so much sense of accomplishment!

[@lorettastephens7945]

Thanks for being so honest! You go through the same things I go through! I have to remember to be thankful for what the Lord has provided for me on this earth!

[@SuperDD3392]

Remember visiting somewhere for vacation and fun is not the same as living there full time with everyday life.

[@jillanglemyer3168]

This is so true!!!

[@belindavandan6057]

Being a mom can be challenging and life happens.. but you have shown that you are aware and willing to focus on self care which is very important. You do you and never concern yourself with what others think. Your family unit will be blessed and myself & others are praying for many years of happiness/joy/blessings for you in marriage and parenthood 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@sheabs21]

Thank you for being so open and honest about your postpartum struggles. I have a 25 month old and 4 month old and am dealing with a lot of the same emotional struggles and it is very tough to always be happy and my husband doesn’t quite understand which makes it even harder. I pray that things continue to look up for you, and that this year brings many brighter days!

[@dawndonovan6980]

Please speak to your doctor. Postpartum is nothing to mess around with. You will feel so much better to get a professionals opinion. Hang in there ❤

[@junanneownbey623]

I adore you and your precious family! So proud of you! God bless y’all!

[@junanneownbey623]

Oh my Gosh! I’m so fan girling right now! I actually got a like from the Forsyths!!! Is it even possible that Joy actually liked this? Either way, you made a 54 year old Nana’s day!

[@conniemckenzie7801]

I believe you're a beautiful soul inside and out. You just might be too hard on yourself. A hobby is good to have. Especially, during our low seasons. Perhaps, start with gardening. Planters on the porch. Easier to keep up with. Yet, provides a mental break..

[@carolbullard7956]

Hi Joy! I feel bad for you when people are mean to you. It's uncalled for!! I definitely couldn't handle that. People need to be nicer, period.🙂 Life can be tough for everyone. When I get overwhelmed & it seems like everything is going wrong, I lay in my bed & ask the Holy Spirit to enter my body & to take ALL the things I'm feeling & give them to God. I can actually feel the stress, etc. leaving my body. It's an amazing feeling. I highly recommend that you read "Power for Living". It has a lot of the answers that you're seeking.

[@kathleenmedlyn]

Joy you are just a regular normal person. You are with three small children every day. That is hard for every mother. You can't be happy every day, things happen, life happens. I think you are a caring, sweet person, who does her best.

[@Basedtv800]

Thankyou for sharing so truthfully joy. God bless you x

[@lyn9432]

Joy you are a wonderful person, mother and wife. I ready enjoy watching You, Austin and the little ones and your adventures on KZbin , I always look forward to seeing new posts from you guys. The little ones are growing so fast and they are so adorable. Love to you all.

[@lindakoopman5915]

I love your goal for the year, getting to know who God is. A good perspective of how God brought you to a low point but is now building you back up. 🥰 May God draw you to Himself 🙏🏻

[@kymberlyabeyta5609]

I used to do that too with my kids with drives. We live in a railroad town and I would go to crossings. Sitting and waiting for trains, and then counting the cars slowed my mind down. I miss my drives. My kids are preteen/teenagers and they don't enjoy the trains anymore. Now, I send them outside to either play basketball or shoot arrows and I put on live cameras of trains. We have to learn to adapt to our situations to keep our minds healthy. But remember this, it's ok for our kids to see us have big emotions, so they can learn healthy skills for their big emotions.

[@theresadavis4885]

Everybody has opinions. You know the truth. Cling to that. It doesn’t matter at the end of the day what people think.

[@robinmcmanus955]

Joy, I just love you so much. I have followed the Duggar show since the very beginning. I think you and Austin are so real and awesome parents. I wish people would follow that old saying "if you don't have something nice to say don't say anything at all" I hope you continue your KZbin channel because I love to keep up with all of y'all.

[@LindyLoo40]

You always get haters, you can’t please everyone all of the time, just let it go over your head. Your little family are lovely and remember you’re human, we’re all human and we all have flaws but god forgives us. You’re a great mum with the children and you do a great job. 🤗🤗🤗

[@brendapaul9255]

Joy you are an inspiration. I love your honesty about all aspects of your life. I'm in my 50's and there are still times where my emotions cause me doubt my joy. But God is always faithful and loving and knows my heart, just as he knows yours. Sometimes we need to remember to give ourselves just a little bit of grace. The best thing I've learned to do and you're learning too, is every night when I pray to thank God for the things that went well and if its been a difficult day to thank him for the things we take for granted like the roof over my head, good food in my belly and wonderful family and friends. God didn't promise us a perfect life, but he will promised to we with us for every second of it. As for your parenting I think you and Austin do a wonderful job, you have very happy kids and I know that's not necessarily all of the time, but the confidence thay show tells me it's the majority of the time. Just keep being you and rememer you are always enough 😊

[@virginiadeatonmusic9500]

Your vulnerability in this video is so amazing and inspiring. Thanks for sharing

[@sharonreising1460]

Happy? Being a mom is a difficult and rewarding task. Putting the kiddos in the car and going on an adventure is a super idea.. I did this a lot when my kids were young. To me, it is a time-out, self care, time to refresh. You are in a safe, controlled place and are experiencing the closeness of time together. PS it is a great way to take a nap 😴

[@ellzeescammon2600]

I get impatient with the "are you happy?" questions. NO ONE is happy all the time, with every aspect of their life! I think the simple answer to that question is very obvious in watching your videos! YES, you are happy. You obviously adore your children, and work hard to make special times for them and to teach them the life lessons they need to know. You and Austin seem like a very happy couple - but that doesn't mean life is just roses, candlelight, romance and perfume all the time. But it isn't like that for ANYONE! You aren't chasing happiness. You are chasing GODLINESS. Happiness will find you! 🙂

[@barbvillarreal7440]

I enjoy watching your videos very much. I relate to you more than anyone in your family. My husband and I got married at 19. God blessed us with two boys and a girl by age 24. We build our home and watched our children grow up. We are now 71 years old and we've been blessed by God over the 52 years that we have been married. Hard times and good times come and go. But God is loving and faithful. Our God is an awesome God and worthy of all of our praise. I hope you and Austin can have many happy blessed year together like my husband and I have.

[@Imtipstertips]

Joy you are so aptly named. Your spirit sure brings Joy to others. I so enjoy watching your family. Your children are adorable and Gunners smiles are a delight to see! God Bless you and prayers for You and Your family.

[@rootelation486]

You are perfectly imperfect! You are human like the rest of us. And even when you dont feel the greatest, remember that you inspire and make so many people you dont even know smile through your videos. So you matter!!!!!! We are all doing the best we know how with what we have to work with.

[@crystallongar529]

You are doing a great job. Keep seeking the Lord and His peace. Press in to Him when the times are hard - they will pass quickly. Praying for peace, joy, and continuous blessings for you and yours ☺️

[@carolwhisenhunt7504]

Joy, you are a very mature young lady. You are mature in Christ. ( yes we all can improve in our walk). I think you are wonderful. I love your siblings. Every family has issues as you know. We all need to be kind and love each other. Everyone has bad days as you know. Ty for being so vulnerable. God is so good if we just chose to spend time with Him. He is there for us always. This was great, Ty joy. Much love.

[@pamcumb1977]

Totally agree. Not all people have a real relationship with Jesus thus the negativity, shake the dust!

[@Mvill1]

Joy, you are great mother! Look at your kids, they are so happy! Please don't pay attention to those who write to you some stupid negative posts, those are people with own big issues and they are bugging everyone around, especially how easy it is done online.

[@sarahmarie2911]

Taking care of little kids from the moment you open your eyes in the morning, all day, & through the whole night as well, cant be downright exhausting! You don't even sleep through the night! & as much as you love your kids, it does get tiresome. There are times where you just get tired of it & want a break. & there is nothing wrong with feeling that way! I get it. My kids are my whole world, my life, & my hobby & I love them more than life itself. They are the best thing to ever happen to me, but sometimes you just need a dang break! 🤣 But it does get so much easier & so much more enjoyable when they get older! 😆 Hang in there! 😊

[@amyhigdon6208]

Have you ever considered a "mother's day out" program? I don't know if they have them there or not. But it's generally held at a church for 3 or 4 hours one day a week. Then you could use that time for a hobby or some "me time". Just a thought, my mom did that with my brother and I when we were kids and we had a great time. The kids do crafts and play, sing songs and of course snacks. Best wishes to you and your little family in 2024.

[@ArrrgLOL]

Joy, I've watched you grow up from the tv show to the wonderful young woman you are now. :) Don't let the haters get you down kiddo! You are a fine person and a good Mom! Thank you for continuing to share your life and views with us.

[@lapoppy4801]

Love seeing all of you. Such a loving family! God's grace will see you through the hard times.

[@andreanittel2240]

on the harder days try to find the joy in the little things- coffee, a nice shower, a treat, just a few little things to help thru the day!!!!!

[@pamgraves9373]

Love this video sweet girl! What a refreshing testimony. Very open and honest. You are such a bright blessing!! Praying that the days ahead become easier and that you feel more and more lighter emotionally and spiritually. The time you are in with your kids is hard because you are always on. Give yourself grace. 💕. Praying for you beautiful!! You make me smile

[@myca9169]

I am 54, and I found this video very encouraging. Thank you for opening up your heart and in giving your testimony in loving Christ. As a mom of a 32yr old, I know I don't personally know you, but when I see negative comments I react as a mom, I feel they are very out of place in their comments. You are a very good mom from what I see in your videos, and hey, who doesn't raise their voice to their kids at times😂. I see Christ coming through your channel and you inspire people even if they don't leave a comment. Sometimes at 54 I am not sure I even know me. ❤ You're doing great!!!

[@lisaalbertson6364]

Thank you for your honesty, Joy! I wish mommas felt more free to be open about their feelings without being judged. I will pray for you, your family, and your spiritual journey.

[@lucyroberts2800]

Love watching you and your family . People can choose to watch you or not if they’re unhappy with what they’re seeing they can choose to not watch . Just be yourselves no more or less . You have a good partner you make a good team 😊 no one is perfect .

[@rosemaryroutte7379]

Joy you are a wonderful Mom and wife. You & Austin work together as a team with the kids. No one has perfect days especially with active kids. God bless you and your beautiful family.

[@lindacrepeau3865]

Hi Joy ~ Thank you for being so open and honest and likeable. I am just amazed at how all you Duggar girls have such an even temperament! Are you all just like your mother? Never raising your voice etc. I am just the opposite, so I am fascinated and even envious of your calm demeanor. God bless you all.