Duggar Family Expecting 18th Child

The world has just learned that the Duggar family is expecting their 18^th child on New Year's Day, as stated by the mother, Michelle Dugar, on the Today Show. The family consists of seven girls and 10 boys, the youngest being nine months old and the oldest 20.

All of the children are home schooled and each child's name begins with a J. The plans for more children are in the works as the father, Jim Bob Duggar, stated that they will continue to have children for as long as they can. Jim Bob Duggar is a former state legislator who served from 1999 to 2002 in the Arkansas House of Representatives, as reported by Trans World News.

Being the mother of six children, I am often asked how we do it. I usually state that there is never a dull moment in my house or in the middle of Wal-Mart. Having so many children has its benefits as well as its drawbacks. I can honestly say that I have finally learned the meaning of being conservative.

Hand-me-downs are great as long as the style stays the same. If what's in style changes, you might as well forget about passing the clothes down because you kid probably won't wear something that is outdated. Thrift stores and sales have become my best friends, and I often feel as though I am married to them.

Family meals are very exciting around my house. We seem to always get in each other's way, but the good news is that there is hardly ever any food wasted. I have also learned that what one kid won't eat, the other one will. It looks like Thanksgiving at our house with all the different food items, the kids can never make up their mind on what they want to eat.

Bath time is a real treat; I now throw the three girls in the tub together. This usually ends up with water all over the floor and the oldest getting mad at the youngest. I went and bought a water vacuum to take care of the mess. The boys don't take a bath together because of the age difference between the three.

Bed time is never easy around my home. I have to make my daily runs to give each child a kiss and say the good night prayers with each. By the end of the night, I have said my prayers seven times including my own and I feel really blessed.