I think you should do it. Wife Swap is hilarious. You go into the other persons house for a week and be that persons mom to those kids and some other woman comes to your house and does it.
Do it! I think it would be hilarious! And you could share the gospel too.
Uh - except how they try and pair you up with another family the complete opposite of yours so there would be more tension and drama... They really must be desperate for sign-ups, as you're the THIRD ONE TODAY I've seen, plus me!
All homeschooling families, too. Veeeeery interesting.
I got one too...
*grin*
One of the gals from the MOMYS digest was on it, and it sounded like the show's producers really edited a lot of good stuff in order to make her look as wacko-Christian as possible. They went on it hoping to share the Lord, and the show just made them look like nuts.
I laughingly told my husband about the offer this morning and he just rolled his eyes and groaned.
I'd never do it, personally. My young children having to be with a woman who is opposite myself for two weeks straight is just a complete NO WAY.
Oh that is funny!
And I would not do it either...I'd certainly not care to have my babies exposed to a woman with opposite morals/values...that is not worth a million, let along 10 g's. 
I don't know, that 10 grand is really tempting....of course, I'd have to clean like mad first!
They want me, too!! Here's the funny part, I asked her how she came to find my website and she said from Spunky!!
We declined also, but ten thousnad clams is hard to say no to! My husband said, make it 50 thousand and they've got themselves a deal, LOL!
You know, my husband would never be told what to do by some stranger- woman. Absolutely not.
And I agree that I would not want a complete stranger in my house teaching my children. The producers would choose a witch or atheist and I am not at all comfortable having that influence in my house for two weeks.
Dear Hubby has to be on board 100%. The show should be called mother-swap.
Donna
So are you saying it's all my fault Laney?!?
They've been desperately trying to come up with someone-- I keep hearing them asking every other person and their sister! I'm so glad they have having such a hard time finding a Christian, homeschooling mom. That's wonderful that women are putting their families and values above a lucrative sum of money!
It sounds like Trading Places which we have here. I expect they are looking for a Christian family.
Actually it isn't that bad - the one I've seen. The kids are never expected to change on spiritual values and Dad is there. They do have interesting "tensions" on things like kids temper tantrums. But the family isn't expected to change values - it's focused on how the other wife fits in.
I saw one in which a Jewish mom was with a Christian family. It was hysterical actually.
I think the producers would like to set it up a bit though - the Christian family can be too obvious about wanting to convert the other wife instead of letting her just observe them.
Anyway - not saying anyone should do it but I have enjoyed watching some of Trading Places (might be the same show under a different name here). Hilarious that you were asked this week Spunky.
Don't do it. I've watched this show and the 2x homeschoolers were on, they were made to look like fools. ABC isn't interested in "communicating" to viewers that homeschooling is a good thing. They just want people to think we are weirdos. Glad you said no.
Oh, Spunky, no,no! I just thought it was sooo funny! She said, Spunky and I said, I know Spunky!
I'm sorry, I hope you were joking. I did not mean to insult you.
We got invited too. If I could guarantee that we'd get to switch with Spunky's family I'd do it
I can only imagine the type of family they'd put you with ...
Spunky, they emailed me too Maybe they were searching for homeschooled families? I haven't spoken to them yet. Are you considering it?
We got invited too! Creepy show idea if you ask me!
Ha Ha! I got one too...what's going on? Are they going down the list on Spunky's homepage?
I don't watch TV, but from what I have gathered, they paint any family that is Christian, homeschooling, or semi-normal as 'odd' and unfortunately, you don't have a say in the editing of the show.
$10,000 is not worth the havoc that that an unbeliever could cause in my home...
And what exactly do they expect to show from this... that a normal, loving, Christian homeschooling family can 'change or convert' a rebellious, unbelieving family? Or is the opposite true?
What are you going to do Spunky?
They must be desperate....
I was joking Laney!!! Please don't take that as an insult. I think they are going down my homepage though.
I'd never do it!
spunky
yes, I agree with the comment about making the Christian family look odd by how they edit. They do that.
Although the one I saw I thought that particular Chistian family probably was a bit odd...
"And what exactly do they expect to show from this... that a normal, loving, Christian homeschooling family can 'change or convert' a rebellious, unbelieving family? Or is the opposite true?"
I don't think the idea is about changing or converting families Carla, though as Christians we think about conversion I guess. It's more like how does a family look to some-one else, and how does some-one else fit in.
I heard from one person that they paired a lesbian couple with an evangelical Christian couple. Not what I want to do!
Spunky
Hey Everyone!
I love all the responses! Actually i was going down Spunky's webpage because everyone listed really seemed like amazing and opinionated people. We love that! And no, we are not looking to exploit homeschooling familes at all, we are just looking to educate America on this lifestyle. Its soo interesting! If a family comes off as looking a certain way, its probably because they REALLY are that way. It is shot documentary style, so for the most part, it is what it is. Also, we are not going the religious angle this season, we would never push religion on anyone. Everyone's spirtuality is there own and we would never allow someone to push their morals or values onto someone else. And by the way, we are going to be doubling the amount we pay families to $20,000!!! So if anyone wants to chat and hear more about it, give me a call. If not, you might know of someone who might be interested. Thanks for spreading the word!!!
Lori Malkin
Casting Producer
ABC Television
212-404-1427
Wow, Spunky, you've got some serious clout!!!
Hmmmm, 20 thousand? Nope, still not enticing!
Do I hear $40,000? I have double the amount of kids I hear you usually have... make it $50,000...
Might as well make that a BIG carrot dangling in front of me...
...
Uh...you know, was that real ? Hey, I have this great idea for a show. See there's this kid, and he's like a secret agent. The cool thing is he blogs, and on his spare time he uses his computer skills to find information and solve crimes......but seriously, that would be a cool show, and it would be interesting to see a show that is clean, and is exciting, yet anyone can enjoy. Sort of like the "old days."
Just some input from a teen.
Hey... where's my smiley face that I put in that last comment????
I called my husband and he just said the most awesome thing...
"Honey, they couldn't pay me enough to trade you for a day, let alone a week." Awwwww....
He's gonna get a big kiss when he gets home!
Lori, if anyone signs on for the show do I still get the finders fee????
Laney, I'm a legend in my own mind. Thanks for making me feel important!
Spunky
I guess ABC called here too. My husband thought she was a telemarketer and hung up on her. HA HA HA
ChrisW, when I spoke with Lori from ABC she mentioned Classical Child, so I guess she did try to call you
I know others are against it, but we are discussing it. The money is very enticing and things are kind of tight right now.
That is absolutely wild. My husband made a point about the money - he would have to take off at least two weeks work to film during the day (we guess?? do the men still go to work? That's kind of a scary thought.) so you will probably lose some income that the 20k compensates. Just a factor to consider for you wild women contemplating it. If one of you goes on, will you let us know so we watch you?
oh my heavens! this is unbelievable. Spunky, you were right, this laugh was worth 40 grand. If you do go on, make sure you plug The Old Schoolhouse Magazine ROFL
love jen
I've heard of some discrepancies (can't spell tonight - too tired!) on the show so I don't think I could do it. Plus, my husband would come across as Fidel Castro on screen if having to live with another woman for a week...LOL And I would spend 75% of the time crying. We really, really need the money - but even I have my limits. My children just aren't worth it. I see what the media/tv does to people.
Jess
I've seen on at least 1 show the husband still went to work. He was an EMT and worked a swing shift. On a different show the husband cut and sold firewood. The "swapped wife" was a rich woman from New York and she actually helped him at his job during the day on the 2nd week. My dh works nights and sleeps during the day, so he would be home during the day, just asleep until about 4pm. He does have vacation time, though, he could take if needed. I would lose income, though, as no one can do my WAH job except me due to contract rules.
"I love all the responses! Actually i was going down Spunky's webpage because everyone listed really seemed like amazing and opinionated people. We love that! And no, we are not looking to exploit homeschooling familes at all, we are just looking to educate America on this lifestyle. Its soo interesting!"
Yeah ... right :o
"Hey Everyone!
I love all the responses! Actually i was going down Spunky's webpage because everyone listed really seemed like amazing and opinionated people. We love that! And no, we are not looking to exploit homeschooling familes at all, we are just looking to educate America on this lifestyle. Its soo interesting! If a family comes off as looking a certain way, its probably because they REALLY are that way. It is shot documentary style, so for the most part, it is what it is. Also, we are not going the religious angle this season, we would never push religion on anyone. Everyone's spirtuality is there own and we would never allow someone to push their morals or values onto someone else. And by the way, we are going to be doubling the amount we pay families to $20,000!!! So if anyone wants to chat and hear more about it, give me a call. If not, you might know of someone who might be interested. Thanks for spreading the word!!!
Lori Malkin
Casting Producer
ABC Television
212-404-1427"
Yeah .... right. That would sell GREAT TV to your audience. I've heard about this show and I agree with what 90% of what the commentors have said.
Some producers will say anything to get someone that they really, really want on their show.
I wouldn't care if the amount was up'd to a million, I wouldn't do it. My family and my children mean too much .... and I wouldn't want the bad influence that would no doubt be sent our way to have that much clout for that long with my family. Ain't no way ....
I agree, I would never do it. My poor husband would go crazy and I wouldn't risk my children's hearts for anything.
I am so glad I am not an important and amazing woman. There is something to being ordinary, you don't get these fabulous offers.
As my husband just said, "Guard the gates to the city!"
We struggle financially big time right now while my husband has returned to college to finish his degree he started over 30 years ago. I can't say this isn't tempting, but temptation is to be dealt with and my Father has proved His faithfulness over and over to us. We will not sell out our family. According to what the word "keepers" at home in Titus means, there is a sense of guarding the home. I couldn't leave my home unguarded like that.
Love and shalom,
Serena
If this show is like the one I saw, then the wife of the other family decides how the other family will spend the money. The smart family's discuss it with her so she knows what they want. The really smart famiilies would know this ahead of time (which is why I'm mentioning it) and husband and wife could discuss before she goes for a week.
Another interesting point to think about is that you can dictate some contractual terms , i.e. we will not participate with same-sex couples.
Oh my - I sound like I'm advertising. I'm not. But if some-one was reading and had decided yes then I think they should know. I gues you weigh it up - it does put your family on tv, and do you want your private family life exposed - even if you think it's great.
The other thing is that it's "reality" tv - you have a tv crew in your home all the time. But I have seen some episodes where people simply said "this will be off camera" and there's no footage of that conversation.
It is one of those things that can turn out great or turn out embarrassing. And do you want your children feeling embarrassed to pieces about something they said or did being on national tv?
(A few more provoking thoughts...)
I think my first bit was confusing. In the show I've seen if you went away for a week you would decide how the other family you go to would spend their 40K and the wife of that family would decide how your family spends the 40K. So to be smart you and hubby talk that over before you go. And he tells her.
If the rules for Wife Swap are the same - and in Trading Places the families didn't know that twist until after they actually started filming and were in each others homes.
(ABC are going to just love me now...)
ROFL...nice Catez.
yes the one time i saw this the guest dad got to chooe how the host amilies money was spent and it was a dissaster. which was unfortunate since they had already spent the money and were kinda counting on that. They were so mad. and it was sad because that money was totally wasted (guest dad was sweet but an idiot financially).
we would still consider it though . . .
For anyone tempted, go to the site (abc.com) and actually read the application. If that won't put you off, well I dunno what will. They want to know what bugs you the most. They WILL pair you off with your worst nightmare. It was on this weekend too, a coupon-clipping stuff-hoarding SAHM swapped with a high-powered executive neat freak minamilist.
Is it *really* worth any amount of money to put your family through that? Ten G's is nothing.
I'm sure Lori is a nice person, and she's just doing her job (plus look at all the publicity!) but nuh-uh for us. Muliply that by five and *maybe* we'd think about it.
Besides, we're in the wrong country up here. :D
Oh come on Andrea let's start a sister show. Trading countries. Or how about blog swap?
Let's see if the Wonkette and I will trade blogs for a week.
spunky
I guess you would just have to be very careful with the application then. For the record, being paired with Faith Hill as my pretend wife for the week would really, really bother me. I would just hate that
I have a huge list of people I would LOVE to trade with, if I had a choice.
I've done blog-swaps, too - both as a guest author and letting others post to my blog. It's really fun.
Ron went over the application and blogged about it, in case anyone wants to have a look.
Andrea, which blog did he post this too?
Do the show.... Do the show....
O.K., I’ll fess up, I think you should seriously consider doing the show.
I have actually seen the program three or four different times and it is a “feel good” type of show where they are trying to get people to see the world from another point of view, bonus if someone actually learns and grows from the experience. As someone watching the show you root for some of the changes and against the others. All in all, an interesting concept, but it does make you wonder “Where do they get these families?” Well, now we know.
Like any TV series you are, of course, totally at the mercy of the editors. It they want you to look like a fool you will look like a fool. If you are a fool, they can make you look good, that is the beauty of the cutting room floor. And lets be honest, tension makes for better TV, so they try to match families that are different and that they think may actually learn from each other.
I imagine they get 1000s of applications, so most likely yours is never selected. Still, Spunky TV would be a great hour. I know I’d tune in. If they select you, hold out for 30k and a paid vacation, Spunky is worth it.
Sorry, my family is not for sale at any price.
I didn't realize the show required you to sell your family, clearly this is some tricky clause in the contract. Perhaps you should report this to the authorities.
No, I just have a very wise advisor who counsels me well in these financial matters. Perhaps, TM you might consider his services as well.
Spunky
Not that I would necessarily encourage you to do this, but if you are actually up to the task you should not catagoricly (sp?) reject this sort of thing either.
They will find someone and possibly someone like one couple I know. She dropped out of high school to give birth their first child and he barely finished. While the said child was still in diapers they were talking about home schooling but did absolutely nothing to prepare themselves for it.
They are a lovely and kind couple that I can't say enough positive things about but totally ill-equiped for the job. But a person can only teach what they know and I can not see how they will not be maxed out by grade 5. I would have thought finishing high school would be a no-brainer, but obviously not. They seem to think they are completely up to the task.
These are the kind of people who give homeschooling a bad name. With competency comes responsibility and sometimes that means being a representative so that a lessor does not sully your good name and reputation.
hyperbole
Not the basis for a very sound arguement.
Who was that in reference to TM,
spunky, Pierre, or my financial adviser???
Why you, of course!
Definition: A figure of speech in which deliberate exaggeration is used for emphasis.
I submit the issue has nothing to do with "Selling the family." You could always do the program for free. You could do the program for free because you thought a greater good could come to the world because of the opportunity to display your philosophy to millions of people. You could do the program for free to spend two weeks helping to minister to another family whom the producers have identified as needing your help. You could do the program for free, just for the experience of doing something you have never done before.
Here is a thought exercise: If your husband was producing the show would you find it more interesting to participate? If the answer is yes, then the reason is not actually one of money, it is one of trust. You trust your husband to more accurately reflect your philosophy than you trust the producers of network television. You trust your husband not to put your family to the test in an unreasonable way (one program had the children watching TV and eating junk food after the rule change).
To make a solid argument against appearing on the show, and hence not besmirch by inference everyone who has appeared on the program with their family, would require actually research and investigation. I can appreciate that you have neither the time, interest, or calling to make such an investigation. That would be the basis, for you, of a sound argument. I would suggest a better alternative being:
I don't want to. (personal emotional preference, hard to argue with)
I don't believe God wants me to. (even harder to argue with)
My husband doesn’t want to. (see your previous postings)
I don’t have the time, interest, or calling to investigate the opportunity. (probably the most true)
All of the above appear to me to be vastly superior to the argument "Sorry, my family is not for sale at any price." Which, I believe, comes across very poorly for you.
Just a rhetorical suggestion, appropriate for a student of the predicate calculus
Here is a thought exercise: If your husband was producing the show would you find it more interesting to participate?
Straw man argument. You're a man of learning you can do better than that!
My husband doesn't want to. True statement. And will consider using it in the future.
I can't say God doens't want me to because I never asked. I never presume to speak for God without first checking with him.
When someone offers my family $20,000 to be on the show. What are they buying. A cow? No. There buying us and our identity.
Spunky and her family are not for sale at any price. Argument stands.
A straw-man rhetorical technique is one where an opponent’s position is replaced with a different position and then that different position is attacked. Generally, the straw man position is established as one that is easier to refute. How on earth is my question setting up a straw man argument?
I have no intention of setting up a weaker but non equivalent position and attacking that position, nor is that intention implied in the question. If, as you would likely answer, you would allow your husband to produce a TV show that featured your family in a similar situation then it simply focuses your objections to the actual situation to the heart of the matter (lack of trust in commercial TV producers, an argument that is likely sound) and away from hyperbole (I will not sell my family).
When someone offers me $20,000 to lecture on a topic they are not buying me, nor my identity, they are buying my time (see your husband's posting on what we are really selling). It is hard to see how this TV show is any different in that regard.
Nice discussion.
From that stand point you are partly correct.
But it is how my time is spent that gives me my identity. They didn't ask me to be on the show because I was a waitress. It was my identity as a homeschool mom of 6 adorable children and one awesome looking husband that they are seeking. (My looks not considered important. Because they only want my time right?)
From my stand point is may be a valuation of time. For them it is a purchase of an identity. Otherwise, the waitress would do just fine and alot more cheaply.
I will not trade my time nor my identity for $20,000. And I'm much too good looking to work for such a pathetic sum anyway!
Case closed.
Hi Spunky!
There are *some* redeeming qualities to the show "Wife Swap" (families tend to come away with something they change for the better and with greater appreciation for their own families).
But I do not see how Christians can agree to give up their God-given authority over their homes and children to WHO KNOWS WHO (usually chosen by ABC because they have as opposite a worldview as possible from your own).
$20K is a lot of money and I admire you immensely for turning it down! The responsibility and authority given to us by God should not be sold to the highest bidder.
Respectfully yours,
Moms4Psalms
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