Another Family of 8?

Two of Gil and Kelly Bates' adult children are preparing to welcome their sixth babies. Just a few days after Zach and Whitney Bates revealed that they are expecting their sixth child in spring 2026, Tori and Bobby Smith announced that they will also be a family of eight. Tori is due in march 2026. Their oldest, Kade Smith, turns seven in November, and Kolter Smith is five-and-a-half. Charlotte Smith turned four in June, Cambree Smith turned three in August, and Slade Smith celebrated his first birthday in May. 

 

 

Update on Erin’s Leg

Chad and Erin Paine celebrated Henry Paine’s one month birthday yesterday. And most of you know, Erin is at home with her family and is grateful for God’s goodness. Her right leg is still not functioning, but she is learning to use a walker and wheelchair. She has also been doing physical therapy.

A number of Bates family members, including Lawson and Tiffany Bates, traveled to Florida to babysit the Paine kids and bring Erin’s spirits up while she was in the hospital. The Paines continue to have help from family and friends. Lawson and Tiffany just posted a video to YouTube with clips from some of their visits to the hospital, including some tender moments when Erin was able to hug her kids and cuddle with Henry. Please continue to pray for complete healing for Erin. 

Bates Family of Eight

One of the Bates couples is expecting. Here’s a hint: When the baby arrives, they will be a family of eight. That’s right, Zach and Whitney Bates just revealed that Whitney is pregnant with their sixth child. This little one is due in spring 2026. He or she will join five adoring siblings. Bradley Bates turns 11 in October, Kaci Bates is nine, Khloe Bates will be six in November, Jadon Bates is four, and Lily Bates just turned two. Do you think they will need a new vehicle to fit their crew?

Video Update on Erin

For the first time since the birth of Henry Paine on August 25th, the Paines are sharing a video update. Chad Paine took to YouTube to give a heartfelt thank you to those who have prayed and to provide a brief update on Erin‘s health. She continues to lack function in her right leg, and he explains that her doctors do not yet have an answer or an explanation, although they remain hopeful. The parents of seven are grateful that Henry is doing well and that they are at home with all their children. 

Carlin's Natural Labor

Navy Kate Stewart is nine days old. In case you missed it, she was born September 7th, 2025, and was Carlin's biggest baby at birth. Carlin and Evan Stewart, proud parents of three, just uploaded a video of Carlin's natural labor and delivery. 

Erin is Home!

What a blessing that Erin Paine is back home with her family! After spending almost three weeks in the hospital, she was finally discharged. We know the Paines would appreciate continued prayer for Erin’s recovery, as she still doesn't have function in her right leg, nor does she have all the answers about her health condition. 

Navy Kate Stewart

Carlin and Evan Stewart have landed on a name for their little girl, born September 7th, 2025. They will call her Navy Kate Stewart. Navy joins big sister Layla Stewart, who is five-and-a-half, and Zade Stewart, who turned three in March. Coming in at 7 pounds, she is the Stewarts' biggest baby. Layla weighed 5 lbs 13 oz, and Zade weighed 6 lbs 12 oz. Carlin hasn't used her middle name, Brianne, for either of her daughters. Congratulations to the Stewart and Bates families!

It’s a Girl!

Carlin and Evan Stewart just announced the gender of their third baby. Not only did they not share it publicly before the birth, but they also chose to be surprised themselves. And…it’s a girl! 

Erin Transferred to a New Hospital

Erin Paine is still in recovery and was transferred to another hospital. Chad says Erin’s care team is working hard to help her improve and that the nurses have become like family to them. It has been 16 days since Henry Paine was born, and Erin and Chad miss their six other children tremendously. They say they are so grateful for the prayers and support they have received. 

Baby Stewart No. 3

Update: Baby Stewart is here! No announcement on the gender or name yet, but we will keep you updated.

News of the arrival of Carlin and Evan Stewart’s third child will be coming soon. The Stewarts decided to wait until the baby’s arrival to find out whether it is a boy or girl, so you can be looking forward to that announcement. 

Praise Report

The Paine family is rejoicing today! Bates fans have been praying fervently for Erin Paine, who has been in the ICU fighting for her life, and for newborn Henry Paine, who has been in the NICU. Just two days ago, Chad shared that Erin had had a severe seizure. Miraculously, she has turned a corner and is on the road to recovery. The staff brought little Henry to cuddle with Mama in her hospital bed. 

Erin Paine in ICU

Henry Paine is one week old and is doing well in the NICU. Erin is also still in the hospital, in the ICU, after going into septic shock from a severe UTI and kidney infection. Please continue praying for Erin and Henry, as well as for Chad and their kids at home.  

Update on September 4th: After her infection improved some, Erin had a severe seizure and is now very weak. Please continue to pray for healing and for wisdom for her doctors as they run tests and search for answers.