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Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar have graced our TV screens for years thanks to TLC shows like 19 Kids and Counting and Counting On. But it seems the famous parents may have more complicated relationships with their 19 kids than they’d like to admit. Jim Bob celebrated his 55th birthday on July 18, and only one of his adult children commented about it on Instagram. Here’s what’s going on.

Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar’s kids have mixed feelings regarding how they were raised

Michelle Duggar and Jim Bob Duggar appear on NBC News' 'Today' show
Michelle Duggar and Jim Bob Duggar appear on NBC News’ ‘Today’ show | Peter Kramer/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

The Duggar parents had seriously strict rules for their kids. From the family’s dress code to the way the older kids were permitted to date, the Duggar way of life was a true spectacle for fans. While many fans thought Jim Bob and Michelle went too far, it seems some of their older kids appreciated their strict way of life. And Jessa Duggar even made a sweet video dedicated to Jim Bob.

“I feel like whenever I start thinking about all of the blessings that the Lord has given me through my father, the list just goes on and on,” Jessa states in her video. “He’s not a perfect man. He has issues like all of us do. … I just see my dad as a man who truly does love the Lord, and I am just so thankful for that.”

While many of Jessa’s siblings agree with her, Jill Duggar likely doesn’t. Jill’s husband, Derick Dillard, has spoken against Jim Bob to various publications, and Jill doesn’t appear to be on good terms with her father at this time.

The Duggar Family Instagram wished Jim Bob a happy birthday

Many of the adult Duggar children have their own Instagram accounts, and Michelle and Jim Bob do as well. On July 18, the couple posted a series of photos to celebrate Jim Bob’s 55th birthday celebration. The first photo shows the couple today, while the second photo shows them kissing when they were together back in their 20s.

“We have had a wonderful day celebrating this amazing husband, dad, and grandpa!! Happy birthday to the love of my life, Jim Bob!” Michelle captioned the post on her Instagram. “You are my best friend. I love laughing with you, praying with you, and doing life with you!! Your heart to love and honor the Lord and follow the Bible as the ‘owner’s manual for life’ is something I treasure in you!”

Michelle then continued on with how Jim Bob makes her and every single one of their 19 kids feel “SO SPECIAL and loved. You have always put our family first, and it means the world to us. We love you dearly!!”

It seems only 1 Duggar kid commented

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Many of Jim Bob and Michelle’s older kids have Instagrams of their own — and they’re frequently found commenting on each other’s photos. Oddly enough, it seems only Joy-Anna Duggar commented on Michelle’s sweet post about Jim Bob’s birthday.

“Y’all are so cute!!” she commented. “Happy Birthday, Daddy! Love you very much!”

Aside from Joy-Anna, Anna Duggar, Josh’s wife, didn’t comment — but she did create a heartfelt birthday post of her own. Those who follow Anna know she seems to have a great relationship with Jim Bob and Michelle. “You are such a fun, patient and adventurous Grandpa!” she captioned her birthday post. “I love the excitement our children express whenever you’re around — you are one of their greatest heroes!”

Anna’s post is sweet, but it’s odd that none of Jim Bob and Michelle’s actual children created posts to commemorate the day. We’ll keep our eyes out to see if this becomes a pattern.

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