While controversies continue to hound the more famous Duggar family members, little is known about John-David Duggar, Jim Bob and Michelle's third child. Recently, though, fans of the reality family have been wondering whether 25-year-old John-David is in a relationship with a family friend, Tabitha Paine.
Paine has been included in past photos posted by the Duggar kids, as the one on the Duggar Family Blog. A fan forum on FreeJinger.com has been running a discussion about the John-David-Tabitha rumored courtship.
"Tabitha Paine keeps popping up at the Duggars' place. She was at Billbin's graduation yesterday and it's at least the second time she's been photographed standing next to Joseph," one fan commented last May.
Another asked, "Is she special friends with John David or Joseph? Or just regular friends with Jana?"
Just recently, another fan asked an update regarding the issue on Facebook, which Paine herself answered.
"So glad you asked! It's easy to assume and few people branch out to find the real answer to questions like these," Paine replied. "I have been a live-in tutor to the Duggar children for the past year. Because we don't do school 24/7 I am able to join in with the family's work, and fun activities during the weekends and evenings. Hence, the reason why you may see so many pictures! But, I am in no such relationship. I may just be single for the rest of my life."
According to the Duggar Family Blog, Paine is a live-in tutor for the younger Duggar children. She is the sister of Erin Bates-Paine's husband Chad. The Duggars and the Bates are said to have been friends for a long time.
In her reply, Paine added that she "may just be single" for the rest of her life.
"I sure do enjoy where God has me, and want to do as Jim Elliot encouraged: 'Wherever you are; Be all there!' Blessings!" she concluded.
Meanwhile, John-David's younger sisters, Jill and Jessa, are gearing up for their upcoming TLC specials, "Counting On." The show's latest teaser confirmed that their sister-in-law Anna is set to make an appearance. It is yet to be revealed if John-David and other Duggars will also be included.
"Jill and Jessa: Counting On" airs on Dec. 13, 8 p.m. on TLC.
