'19 Kids And Counting' John David Duggar Romance Update: Tabitha Paine Rejects the Relationship

Dec 01, 2015 01:53 AM EST

The 19 Kids and Counting family have been through a number of changes since the year 2015 rolled in. While not all the new things in their lives may be considered good, Jim Bob Duggar and Michelle Duggar still snagged a number of notable blessings this year. The Duggar brood welcomed three new additions in their growing clan: the fourth daughter of Josh Duggar and wife Anna Duggar; the first son of Jill Duggar Dillard and husband Derick Dillard; and the first child of Jessa Duggar Seewald and hubby Ben Seewald.

With the news of the Duggar's growing family, fans and followers of the 19 Kids and Counting clan were quick to assume that yet another member of the brood might get hitched soon. John David Duggar, one of the older children of the family, has been rumored to be romantically involved with Tabitha Paine. However, John David's purported girlfriend denied the speculations on their relationship and clarified her closeness with the family.

"Is Tabitha courting anyone at the moment?" asked one fan in Tabitha's page. The curious follower added, "I've seen her with the Duggars a lot over the last year or so and I was wondering if maybe she was courting John-David. It would be great if you could either confirm or deny this."

Tabitha then saw the opportunity to finally clear the air regarding her connection with the Duggar family. She responded, "So glad you asked! It's easy to assume and few people branch out to find the real answer to questions like these. 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," Tabither further added. She went on to say, "I sure do enjoy where God has me, and want to do as Jim Elliot encouraged: "Wherever you are; Be all there"! Blessings!" Tabitha is the sister-in-law of Erin Bates Paine of Bringing Up Bates fame. Erin is married to Chad Paine, Tabitha's brother.

Prior to this news, Michelle admitted in an interview that her husband has been trying to find a suitable girl for John David. However, Jim Bob's son appears to be taking his time before seriously searching for a lady to settle down with. "Everybody is giving me advice about getting married," John David said via People Magazine. He added, "It isn't a big thing. I'm open to advice."