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

5 ай бұрын

😭🥹 thank you!🩷

@ZHab336

5 ай бұрын

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

@naomibeery8098

5 ай бұрын

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

@debbieyuki7895

5 ай бұрын

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

@naomibeery8098

5 ай бұрын

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?

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!

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

11 күн бұрын

Joy is pure inspiration, adore her❤❤

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

5 ай бұрын

Perfectly said

@nancyfarkas3592

5 ай бұрын

Not everyone needs counseling

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

11 күн бұрын

and in my too😌😌🇺🇸

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.

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

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

5 ай бұрын

Agreed

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

5 ай бұрын

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

@AdventureAllTheWay

5 ай бұрын

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

@MM-d289

5 ай бұрын

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.

Gunner is such a smiley baby!! 😊😊😊

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!

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

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.

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.❤🇨🇦

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

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

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

5 ай бұрын

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!

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.

Joy you are a wonderful person, mother and wife. I ready enjoy watching You, Austin and the little ones and your adventures on KZread , 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.

It’s so awesome to see you being open like this. Thank you for sharing.

This is so encouraging! You are very courageous and transparent, thank you for being you, a daughter of the King!

You are so strong + beautifully articulate the joys and hard times of motherhood. Thank you for being honest.

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!

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!!💪🏻❤️😊

You’re so down to earth. Keep being YOU, not what others perceive or think you should be. Haircut looks awesome on you!

Thank you for your honesty and valuable insight. Though times are really exhausting. During those times when I find myself praying/crying, I stop and realize how far my faith as come and end up thanking Him for guiding me to this point.

Thankyou for sharing so truthfully joy. God bless you x

Thank you for being so kind, and real. I do see at times you do seem tired. You do need to do what is best for you.

Thank you for your authentic generous approach. Joy you are so brave and amazing.I’m in awe of you and your Journey. So excited to see more of you being you ahead.💗you are amazing inspiring individual!💗

You’ve always been such a joy to watch. You’re a beautiful woman- inside and out. Thank you for sharing your life with us. I love your honesty, your attitude and your realness.

Love how honest and thoughtful you were answering the questions. I appreciate the fact that you are willing to share this with us. You are a wonderful person. ❤

That is something I am working on too! Having true inner joy from the Lord! I’m also a stay at home mom of three and there are days where I have to CONSTANTLY tell myself I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength and how I have every reason to be so joyful! Then there are times I immediately say ugh how can I be joyful and positive when there is negativity all around me with whining, crying, etc lol

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

Loved it, Joy! Keep being you!! I’m happy to hear you and Austine are even considering Ballet lessons for your little one!! That’s exciting! 👍

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!

You’re doing a good job !! I’m so glad you understand yourself. Keep up the videos !! You are a blessing ! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

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

Wow I can so appreciate your honesty in this Q&A. Especially talking about happiness and joy. I’ve often said happiness is a choice. I can choose to have a happy demeanor - and it’s okay if we can’t sometimes. Thank you for being so honest and open about real life struggles. Your message will reach many women.

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

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.

Thanks for being vulnerable and sharing your thoughts. It’s real life and I have those same battles with Christ. It’s very humbling. I know it has to be tough to read those comments and not get upset. So many people deal with those same issues. People think more about a stranger than their self. Lots of headstrong people. Always be true to you and being the best version of yourself. I heard something recently that puts thing in great perspective. Be the best version of you that you can be that day. Some days will be harder than others. 🙏🏻 for you all.

Thank you for sharing your q and a with us! You’re a good mom and wife. Stay strong and don’t forget to take time for you!!

Thank you for being so open ! I love Daily Grace Co I actually have been working thru their studying hymns series not sure it’s still available .Such a good Q and A . Totally praying for you being a mom is so hard no matter what your kids ages are . I’m embracing a new season now as my oldest two are adults. Still raising our caboose who is a few months younger than Josie .

Amen! You were very honest. Just remember you don’t answer to negative people who want to dwell on things that are no one’s business. Just put those people aside. As hard and hurtful as it may be, do your best to press forward and continue blessing those who follow you for the right reasons. Just keep trusting the Lord and clinging to your husband. ❤️❤️

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!

Find joy in the moment and be grateful in all things even the naughty child because they are blessings and their smile makes it worth it. What has helped me is a daily long walk alone. I do 5-10 miles and this with all my children now gone and I always take vitamin D a huge mood booster. May you continue to walk in you faith and find joy daily

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! ❤

I love that you’re so genuine. It’s normal to have those off days. You’re doing great! 😊

Joy, you are so real and it is a pleasure to see that in you. I hope 2024 is a wonderful year for you and you continue to grow. May God bless you and your family.

Thank you for your honesty! I understand when you are feeling sad , you are an amazing young woman , and mother! I love watching you and your family! God bless!💖💖🙏🙏

Thank you so much for your bravery and honesty about your mental health struggles, especially in postpartum. I suffered a nightmare of a postpartum depression and it was so helpful to know that I wasn’t the only one! May The Lord wrap you up in his arms while you journey to health- mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

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.

Thank you so much for keeping it real and honest. We are all human even living in Christ. Praise God! May the lord continue to give you strength.

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

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.

Your human.thank you for being so honest your an amazing mom love watching and getting Encouragement from you

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. ❤

Thank you for being so transparent in discussing your daily life. You are doing a great job with taking care of your family and I'm glad that you take time for yourself. I'm especially glad that you cling to your faith in God when things get difficult. Blessings 😊😊

Thank you for opening up and sharing these things! I needed to hear all of this and know that I'm not the only one that goes through these feelings and things! ❤ I appreciate you!

This is my favorite video on your channel so far. I felt like I got to know you a little deeper today and you’ve also shown me how mature you are. You pleasantly surprised me. I appreciate all you do in showing us a glimpse of your life with these videos. God Bless! ❤

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.

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❤

Praying for you Joi! God bless! I am with you sister! I am on the same journey to know Jesus for who He is!

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

Praying for you and your family, Joy. I praise God for all He is and has done in you and through you. .

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.

I appreciate your honesty. Being a mom is a WONDERFUL blessing and very challenging at the same time. I wish we moms could just be more real with each other. I think we could encourage each other better and not feel so lonely if we could understand that we're all dealing with the same feelings and struggles.

Thank you for being so open and real Joy. You are a sweetheart.❤❤

I appreciate the transparency specifically the question about are happy! I stay home as well with my kiddos and you're absolutely I think happiness is a choice in a way I also think it's okay to not be okay sometimes. We all get burned out from our jobs even the ones we love!!

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!

Enjoyed this video. Gunner, is so precious. He enjoyed seeing hisself on the camera. Really good Q & A. I like that you’re so real. Thank you for taking the time to do this. ♥️

Thank you for sharing your struggles spiritually and physically. It’s encouraging to me as a fellow mom ❤

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!

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 ❤

You’re so sweet. Thank you for sharing your life with us.

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

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

Wow Joy! This was so raw and I was right in the moment with you. 😢🤗I don’t know what it’s like to be in the spotlight . I believe you when you said it’s frustrating to be talked about because people judge your life by your family. They should try to know you! You are courageous for sharing this. I’ve been remembering to be grateful too when I find myself complaining about happenstance. The Lord is helping me and I’m sure he will help you. Your hair is beautiful and so are you. Your Bible is very beautiful too.. what version is it? Anyway, remember to walk day by day holding the Lords hand and accept encouragement from Austin. Y’all are one, but y’all can also encourage other in the Lord . 🙏🏽 Keep dating each other, growing and walking with the Lord .

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 ☺️

You help me so much! I'm 28, so a little older than you, but married 5 years, and haven't been able to have kids this whole time (potential medical problems).... but seeing your family and your children and you do that at such a young age gives me some kind of hope that I can't even describe.

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.

Thanks for this question and answer video! It just gives us some insight into how feel and what you’re going through! Great video!

Joy, you are an amazing young women and such a wonderful mother to the most precious children on the planet! I can’t figure out people out there saying anything unkind…boggles my mind. I’ve known you for many many years ( on tv)…you are a blessing to this world. 💗🙏💗🙏💗🙏

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.

Thanks for answering the questions so honest and real! Love you Joy! Love Y’all! Love and Prayers Always

🙋‍♀️❤️. Heres a practice that gets easier with time. Let yourself feel sad out of respect, address your feelings, but don't dwell. 5 minutes or so.. Then, ditch sadness! You can choose to focus on thoughts that make you happy. Like embroidery😊.

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!

This was so beautiful and authentic! I’m praying Gods very best for you and your precious family!

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. ❤

Appreciate your honesty, and love hearing your faith.

Finding some time for yourself is so helpful. And, while it's nice, and important to think of others, I'm also reminded of the plane example of putting the oxygen mask on yourself first before you can help your kids/others. ❤ 🙂

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.

Thank you so much for sharing and answering the questions. I always love watching your KZread videos. Your and Austin's children are so sweet, loving and beautiful. Watching your family growing up is so special. God's speed and Blessings Always.

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! 🤗

Thank you for being open and sharing your life with us. God bless

Thank you for being so real. It is hard sometimes. Its ok to ask for help....i like to go for drives too!❤ praying for you ❤

Thank you for your "realness" I appreciate who you are. God's Blessings to you & yours. 🙏❤️

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.

You are a very wise woman and I love your love for Christ!!! May God bless you and your beautiful family this year with his blessings!!!! ♥️

Hi Joy, I’m an empty nester, blessed to have two grown kids and six grandchildren! I love how your walk with God has grown. I’m semi new Christ follower❤ and have discovered my happiness has increased greatly once I started to live my life as a Christian. I will absolutely pray for your situation with hormones. I remember those days well. May you continue to have more happy days than sad and turn to the Lord when you feel overwhelmed by it all.