Brooklyn's 1-Year Photos

Yesterday, we shared a few pictures from Tori Bates and Bobby Smith's engagement photo shoot by Taryn Yager. Now, we have some more snapshots from Taryn to share. These are from Brooklyn Paine's one-year shoot. Her birthday was August 6th. What do you think?

 Brooklyn Paine

 Brooklyn Paine

 Brooklyn Paine

Brooklyn Paine

Photos courtesy of tarynyagerphotography.com

Tori and Bobby's Engagement Shoot

Taryn Yager, the Bates photographer friend who has taken tons of professional pictures for the family over the years, just shared a few snapshots from Tori Bates' and Bobby Smith's engagement photo shoot. Aren't they just adorable?

For those who haven't heard, the Bates/Smith wedding has been planned for December, and season seven of Bringing Up Bates will premiere January 4th, 2018.

 Tori Bates and Bobby Smith

Tori Bates and Bobby Smith

Photos courtesy of tarynyagerphotography.com

'From Friends to Fiancés' Recap

Bringing Up Bates "From Friends to Fiancés"

• The show opens as Bobby is making his first visit to the Bates home to celebrate I Love You Day (aka Valentine’s Day) 2016. “Daddy told Tori, he gave her a warning,” says Kelly. “He said, ‘Whatever you do, Tori, don’t dive in too soon.’ And Tori said, ‘It’s too late.’”
• Ashley, Nathan’s then-girlfriend, is also there. (Update: Nathan and Ashley have remained good friends, but they are not in a relationship.)
• Two months later, the Bates meet Bobby’s parents and siblings (two sisters) while in Florida for Allie’s first birthday.
• “When we were courting, [Tori] was our chaperone a lot,” says Alyssa. “Well, for a little bit, and then I requested a different chaperone. Tori is real strict. She was like, ‘That’s too close. You need to move. You are too close.’ And now, she’s all [cuddly with Bobby].”
• In October 2016, Bobby pops the courtship question during a family vacation in Pensacola, Florida. “I know this is one step along the way, but are you ready to go with me?” he asks her at sunset on the beach. They enjoy a special dinner together in the sand.
• In March 2017, Bobby visits Tennessee to search for a place to live after graduation. A friend from the fire department offers up her camper.
• In May 2017, Tori and the family celebrate Bobby’s college graduation at a party at his home in Florida. The event is also the first time we are introduced to Kelton Balka, Josie’s “special friend.”
• While the entire family (minus Josie and the Websters) is vacationing in West Virginia in June 2017, Bobby pulls Gil aside to ask for his blessing to propose to Tori. “They really are a perfect match,” Gil says after granting permission. 

Bobby proposed to Tori at a picturesque lookout point in North Carolina. Click here to see photos. 

Tori and Bobby Special Airs Tonight

The "secret" Bates special airs tonight at 9pm ET/8pm CT on UP. In Bringing Up Bates "From Friends to Fiancés," take a look back at Tori and Bobby's relationship, and relive the many memories leading up to their romantic engagement (sneak peek video below).

And in case you hadn't heard the news, the season seven premiere date has been announced. Click here for details and a season summary.

Photo courtesy of UP; click here to see more snapshots from the day Tori Bates and Bobby Smith started their courtship.

'Bringing Up Bates' Season 7 Announced!

Season six of Bringing Up Bates has ended, and we know you all are wondering whether the series will continue. Well, we have some exciting news! The network just announced the premiere date of season seven: Thursday, January 4th, 2018. Here's the official press report and summary:

UP TV, the entertainment destination that showcases stories about modern American families and the relationships that define them, announced today that it has renewed hit reality series Bringing Up Bates for a seventh season after solid growth with season six was capped off with its strongest episode of the season1. Led by devoted father Gil and his loving wife Kelly Jo, the Bates do everything in bulk while staying true to their values and rules for the family. On the heels of the 2016/17 broadcast TV season being the network’s best ever in P18-49 (+10% LSD)2, UP has ordered 26 episodes, which is the largest season episode order to date. The new season will premiere Thursday, January 4 at 9 p.m. ET.

“With 31 people covering three generations now in the Bates family, each day is full of surprises, love, humor and new memories,” said Timothy Kuryak, svp unscripted development and production, UP. “This new season of Bringing Up Bates will take viewers on a journey full of some of life’s biggest moments including the highly anticipated engagement and marriage of Tori Bates and Bobby Smith as well as job changes, new relationships and new surprises! The Bates continue to deliver on the promise of feel-good, positive entertainment.”

In the new season of Bringing Up Bates, the Bates continue to add to their family. From Tori and Bobby’s wedding planning to Carlin’s impending courtship to Josie’s growing relationship to possible babies on the way, love is in the air for the Bates. And lately, their simple rural lifestyle in Tennessee is in a flurry of transitions as this remarkable and ever-expanding family continues to navigate life’s trials and triumphs.

Whitney gets her real estate license, Chad takes on a new opportunity, Michaela and Brandon move into a new house and continue their fertility journey, and the Bates are in full wedding prep for Tori and Bobby’s upcoming nuptials.

Photo courtesy of UP

From Friends to Fiancés

Tori Bates said yes to Bobby Smith's marriage proposal, and the two are headed to the altar this December! Bringing Up Bates is currently on break until the season seven premiere (date to be announced soon), but UP has an exciting special scheduled for this Thursday.

In "From Friends to Fiancés," take a look back at Tori and Bobby's relationship (visit Showtimes page for more listings), and relive the many memories leading up to their romantic engagement. Check out this promo video:

Photo/video courtesy of Shannon Benfield, UP
Click here to see more photos of the engagement on the UP website.

Paine Family: September Snapshots

Between being a wife, mother, sister, musician, and music teacher, Erin (Bates) Paine is busy, but she she loves her hectic life.

These new photos of the Paines may just melt your heart. Carson Paine is two years and five months, while Brooklyn Paine is almost 14 months (just two months younger than Carson was when Brooklyn was born).

 Chad Paine and Brooklyn Paine

Erin Paine, Carson Paine, Brooklyn Paine

Photos courtesy of chadanderin.com

Bates Wedding Date?

Tori Bates and Bobby Smith are headed to the altar this December, the couple tells People Magazine. Next Thursday evening on UP, relive their love story, leading up to Bobby's romantic proposal.

Photo courtesy of Shannon Benfield, UP; video courtesy of UP

Tori Bates' Engagement Photos

As we just announced, Tori Bates and Bobby Smith are engaged! It was a complete surprise to Tori. Bobby picked her up from college and drove out to Wiseman's View in North Carolina.

The couple hiked for a while, and then Bobby popped the question at a scenic viewpoint with an incredible view of the mountains. Both sets of parents were present for the proposal, although they watched from a distance. Kelly actually decorated the spot before the couple arrived.

Bobby completed his ministry degree in May and is working at Gil Bates' church. Tori graduates with her elementary education degree in May 2018. The wedding date has not yet been announced, but the couple is planning to wedding December.

Wondering how many kids Tori and Bobby would like to have? Both say they like the idea of a large family, so we will just have to wait and see!

Click here to see more photos of the engagement on the UP website.

Photos courtesy of Shannon Benfield, UP

Bates Engagement

The big announcement has been made! Tori Bates and Bobby Smith are engaged! Visit UPTV.com for a statement from the couple, and check out the article on the People Magazine site for all the details of the proposal. Bobby spent a month planning the big moment, which took place at Wiseman's View Scenic Overlook in Marion, North Carolina

And those who guessed that the secret special would feature the engagement were correct! Tune in to UP next Thursday at 9pm ET/8pm CT for "From Friends to Fiancés."

Photo courtesy of UP

Whitney Celebrates 24

Happy 24th birthday, Whitney Bates! Missed yesterday's announcement about Whitney's new job? Click here to read all about it.

If you enjoy this blog, be sure to check out Ellie's other blogs (NashvilleWife.com and DuggarFamilyBlog.com).

Photo courtesy of tarynyagerphotography.com

Whitney's New Job

 Zach Bates, Whitney Bates, Bradley Bates, Kaci Bates

Whitney Bates, mama of two, has just joined the team at Bailey and Co. Real Estate as a REALTOR®. She is new to the office but says she is grateful and excited to embark on this journey.

If you have watched Whitney on Bringing Up Bates, you know that she is a shining light who strives to love the Lord and others. Congratulations on your new job, Whitney!

Photo courtesy of tarynyagerphotography.com

Big Bates Announcement

Yesterday, we told our readers that the "Bates secret special" has been postponed until next Thursday, September 28th. We know you all are disappointed to have to wait an extra week to view that show, but here's a new announcement that is sure to make you smile...

This Thursday, following three Bringing Up Bates reruns (visit our Showtimes page for information), the Bates family will come on during Small Town Big Mayor (starts at 9:30pm ET/8:30pm CT) to share an exciting announcement. If you are unable to tune in, we will post the details immediately following the reveal.

Photo courtesy of UP

Bates Secret Special Postponed

The season six finale ended on a cliffhanger, with Gil Bates giving Bobby Smith and Evan Stewart the green light to proceed to the next step in their relationships with his daughters Tori Bates and Carlin Bates. What happens next? You'll have to wait and see!

Last week, we announced the "Bates Secret Special" that UP has planned. We just wanted to let you all know that it has been postponed to next Thursday, September 28th. More details coming soon.

If you enjoy this blog, be sure to check out Ellie's other blogs (NashvilleWife.com and DuggarFamilyBlog.com).

Photo courtesy of UP

New Webster Family Photo

Happy Monday! It has been a while since we have posted a new photo of the Webster family of four. Lexi is almost eight months old, while Allie is two years and five months. The Websters stay busy with their cleaning business and John's family's air conditioning business.

The day after Hurricane Irma hit Florida, we let you know that they were safe and sound. Their area did not receive as much damage as other parts of the state.

John Webster, Lexi Mae Webster, Allie Jane Webster, Alyssa Webster

Photo courtesy of Alyssa and John Webster

White Rushing Water

Did you enjoy watching the Bates embark on an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip on Thursday's season finale episode? Some of the female Bates admit that they were quite frightened. A few of the guys say they were apprehensive when they saw how quickly the river was rushing, but some aren't willing to admit it.

Check out the video below. Would you have gone with the Bates, or would you have preferred to sit on the sidelines?

Photo/video courtesy of UP

Bates Birthday Double Take

It's been a busy day, but we want to do a quick birthday shout-out to Judson Bates and Brandon Keilen. Jud is seven years old, and Brandon is 28. Happy birthday, guys!

 Judson Bates

Brandon Keilen and Michaela (Bates) Keilen

Photos courtesy of UP

'Uncharted Waters' Recap

Bringing Up Bates "Uncharted Waters"

• The show opens on Evan and Carlin’s courtship conversation with Gil and Kelly. “Of course, Dad always likes to throw in his little nuggets,” says Carlin, annoyed. “If you ever get married, if this ever keeps going, we’ll see, let’s take it slow.”
• Gil and Kelly pray with the couple and then give them the green light to start an official courtship.
• Later, those over 90 pounds and age 10 head to the zip line course. Kelly takes the “middle kids” to the pool.
• Some of the zip lines are short and low, but one is about 90 feet off the ground. “It’s nothing like the little one we have in the backyard,” says Jackson.
• The next day, the plan is to go whitewater rafting. It ends up raining, but that doesn’t stop the Bates. They hire the daughter of a local pastor to babysit the little ones and head out. Because of the weather, they end up having to go on a more difficult course with class four rapids. Even the boys are apprehensive.
• All the married couples get into one boat. “Just think, Mom, if this boat wrecks, you’ve got Lawson and Nathan to raise all the kids from all three of our families,” says Zach.
• The ride is exhilarating, and the ladies scream the whole way, but they all enjoy themselves.
• Later, while everyone else is showering, Bobby pulls Gil aside to chat. “Yesterday it’s Evan, today it’s Bobby,” says Gil. “I’m getting hit from everywhere. Who knows what’s going to be next?”
• “…Before I start planning anything and before I take this next step, what I really want to do is just have your full blessing and be able to ask your permission to marry Tori,” says Bobby.
• “You’re a good guy, Bobby," says Gil, patting Bobby on the back. “I’m glad you finished school, but nope.”
• Bobby’s lip starts quivering, and a look of anguish washes over his face. “I always have a hard time telling when people are joking, and I was thinking, there’s like a one percent chance that he’s serious right now, but what if he is?” says Bobby.
• There is a long pause, and then Gil says, “You’ve got my blessing.” Bobby is extremely relieved and admits that he was about to throw up.
• “I think you and Tori have been good for each other,” says Gil. “But it’s hard to say yah, you know? Because I’m losing these girls one after another.”
• “Now that I have Mr. Bates’ permission to be able to propose, Tori seems to have a theory that October is the magic month because we met in October and we started courting in October, but we’ll just have to see about that,” says Bobby.
• After everyone finishes getting ready, the Bates snap a family photo and then head to dinner.

Tonight: 2 'Large Talks'

On tonight's season finale episode of Bringing Up Bates, you'll hear Gil's answer to Evan's request for permission to court Carlin, as well as the Bates dad's response when Bobby asks for his blessing to propose to Tori. The 30-minute show airs at 9pm ET/8pm CT on UP.

While the rest of the family enjoys the high ropes courses at Adventures on the Gorge, Tori and Bobby stay back to watch the children.

 Tori Bates, Brooklyn Paine, Bradley Bates, Carson Paine, Bobby Smith

The following day, all the older kids and adults embark on an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure. As you can probably guess, there is a lot of screaming involved.

Later, Bobby pulls Gil aside for a "large talk." The topic? Engagement, of course. As we saw in the promo video, the father of 19 gently says no. Is he joking, or does he legitimately want Tori and Bobby to wait for marriage? Find out tonight!

 Bobby Smith and Gil Bates

Bates family photo (minus the Websters and Josie)

Photos courtesy of UP

Bates Secret Special

For those wondering what will happen after tonight's season finale episode of Bringing Up Bates, below are the showtimes that have been announced thus far. If you missed the first part of the season premiere, click here to read our recap.

Thursday, September 14, 2017
8pm: Courtship, Kiddos and Future Son-In-Laws?
8:30pm: Lawson and Sadie's Big Breakup
9pm: Uncharted Waters (NEW)
It's a family affair, as the Bates family, along with Tori's Boyfriend (Bobby) and Carlin's suitor (Evan) continue their thrill seeking vacation at Adventures on the Gorge in West Virginia! Rain or shine, the Bates brave a high level whitewater rafting course. It's sink, swim, or scream time as the family navigates some intense rapids. And later, Gil is in for a big surprise when Bobby pulls him aside and asks him for permission to pop the question to Tori!
10pm: Uncharted Waters

Sunday September 17, 2017
8:30am: A LOVEly Day

Thursday September 21, 2017
8pm: Uncharted Waters
8:30pm: One Cap, Two Gowns? 
8pm: Bates Secret Special
All-new special, summary TBA
10pm: Bates Secret Special

Sunday September 24, 2017
8:30am: Bates Dish It Out

Fear of Heights

"I've always had a struggle with heights. I was a little chicken, but Erin was just all confident and cheesy-peasy."
-Chad Paine

Are you afraid of heights? Chad Paine admits that he is. In this sneak peek scene from tomorrow's season finale episode, Erin shows her husband up on the ropes course.

Photo/video courtesy of UP

Watch Season 6 Online For Free

Just two days to go until the final segment of the Bringing Up Bates season six premiere airs on UP. After the end of each season, the network makes the first three episodes available on its website. (To watch seasons 1-5, visit our Watch Full Episodes page and scroll down past the episode and recap listings.)

With season six coming to an end, UP is preparing to release the first three episodes for free. We just received word of an exciting promotion that they are running. If you sign up for UP email updates, you will receive access to the episodes three days ahead of the general public. Click here to register on the UP website.  (Email address is required, but phone is optional.)

Artwork courtesy of UP

Websters Are Safe

 Alyssa Webster, Allie Webster, and Lexi Webster

Over the weekend, Hurricane Irma slammed Florida, leaving a trail of devastation across the Sunshine State and knocking out power for millions of residents.

Many of you are eager to hear how Alyssa and John Webster, who live near Orlando, are doing. You will be happy to know that they are safe. The hurricane blew down quite a few trees in their area, but to their knowledge, the damage has not been great. Please continue to pray for those who have been impacted by Irma, especially those who have lost loved ones and property.

Photo courtesy of Alyssa and John Webster

Green Light for Courtship?

"Mr. Bates likes to throw some things out there that kind of confuse you."
-Evan Stewart 

We know you all are eagerly awaiting the premiere of Thursday's season finale episode. Will Carlin Bates and Evan Stewart receive the green light for courtship? Will Gil Bates give his stamp of approval on Bobby Smith's plans to propose to Tori Bates? Check out this promo video.

Photo/video courtesy of UP

Philippines, Take 3

We have one last batch of Philippines photos, sent to us by the Bates family, to share with you all. For those who haven't heard, Lawson, Nathan, Trace, and Carlin went on a mission trip to the Philippines in early August. Nathan and Lawson had been before, but it was the first time for Trace and Carlin.

Lawson Bates

Nathan Bates

Lawson Bates

Trace Bates

Lawson Bates

Carlin Bates

Lawson Bates

Carlin and Trace Bates

Lawson Bates

Lawson Bates

Lawson Bates

Lawson Bates

Photos courtesy of lawsonbates.com, thebatesfamily.com