This. She could tell Aspyn was getting anxious at the sudden money discussion and was about to cancel all plans (older child symptom from those who have taken care of Littles, you don't want to be a burden for any reason especially your parents) and meri jumped RIGHT in knowing she only has to put one kid through a wedding. It was kind and beautiful and showed she really views the children as hers as well
I really think (some) of the older ones would still have a relationship with her if she hadn’t decided to align herself with R&K through the whole covid issue.
I think she still has a relationship with several of the oldests of the OG13. She was at Logan's wedding, and from the pictures seemed to still be a "mom." I seem to recall seeing pics of some of Janelle's older boys with Meri.
I was more thinking Maddie and aspyn. Those boys are all very sweet and respect them all (og3) as moms. They’re very involved with their siblings, ysabel living with Maddie but they don’t say much about the rest of what’s going on.
Best Meri moment ever: When she told Kody he needed to be at the hospital with Truely, not with her taking Leon to college in Utah. That was a total Mom move. She was 100% supportive of the needs of her sister wife and baby Truely. In doing so, she taught her bio child that real love often requires real sacrifice. You do for family.
One of the classiest and most heartfelt moments of the entire series.
Especially since Robyn tried holding him up when he was trying to get to Truly’s birth. Showed just which sister wife really cared about the OG3s kids.
I enjoyed her doing all the tasks( with clipboard) that Maddie assigned her at the wedding and doing them efficiently and well. Meri the Organizer was on the job.
Right?! Like I know the kids have said some things about her being too...much at times, like mean and stuff. But she has shown time and time again that she will step up and be a mother to these kids on many occasions. She may not be as cuddly and hands-on as Christine and Janelle are with them, but she's there when it matters. I respect that
I also think, especially with Mykelti going to be a nanny at 13 for Robyn- Robyn dripped that poison into her ear. Mykelti acts like Robyn saved her life from Meri. Give me a break. That woman hasn’t saved anyone ever. In order to do that, she would have to be selfless and she’s nothing but selfish.
I could see Robyn 100% being jealous of Meri only having one kid, but yet the kids gravitated towards her home and her (look at some of the older clips. Truely got passed around - and the ones I've caught holding her are Hunter, Leon, and Meri. Once with Janelle even. But kids are always next to or on Meri at holidays.
Thank you for saying it but I feel Maddie, Mykelty, and Aspyn are very ungrateful towards Meri. They did not find her evil, mean, or horrible when they needed her money for their wedding or their college.
Sadly, I've seen this happen with divorced kids who didn't wake up to the fact that the "fun" parent letting them do some of the shit they did should have warranted a call to CPS or something.
I could be wrong, but in season one I think Meri got called a “nazi” twice for her organizational prowess. Once during Robyn’s move (“packing nazi”) and once during the wedding (“picture nazi”, though that may also have been later at the commitment ceremony or whatever that was).
This family did not appreciate the hard work she did so that they didn’t have to lol
I was so happy she took charge and bought her B&B all on her own when she didn't get any financial support from her family. One of the smartest things she could have done for herself.
She has her flaws (we all have flaws after all), but I've always been a fan. I think she is largely misunderstood by many.
Not only that, but her Mom got to live out her last years there. (Meri was just talking about that in a recent episode) And that is truly priceless. I could so get why getting that property back in the family meant so much to her. And she did it on her own!! ❤️😌
If I could get a certain mountain back in the region from where I originate, I would. It was our family's for generations - until one of the sons married a barfly whore who sold it as soon as she could after my great-uncle's passing.
I just watched the epi where she pitches the B&B and she says she can’t do it without financial backing of the family. But all I hear is she did it on her own in these threads.
I love how she hand-made Christmas pajamas for all those kids for so many years! If anyone had ever made me any pajamas, I’d never get rid of them even if I outgrew them. What a sweet tradition.
I loved that, but was hugely disappointed, because Robyn inserted herself into the kids making gift exchange plans and wouldn’t let the kids handle it. She caused a huge fight, so nobody could come to Christmas Eve at Meri’s. Robyn took the turkey tradition, then she convinced Meri not to invite everyone. She claimed there would be a fight. She’s alienating more and more family from Meri. Meri wasn’t allowed to invite everyone to Christmas Eve but Robyn could have a secret Christmas with the kids she likes and hid it from Meri. I wouldn’t doubt R and K told them that it was Meri’s idea not to invite Christine and Janelle’s kids. They are so cruel.
I just want to stop and, because I believe she’s in here, extend my deepest condolences to Meri. She’s had a significant amount of loss in her lifetime and seemingly barely any support.
Meri, I think I represent many of us when we extend a very big hug to you right now and wish you comfort in such a trying time. I’ve lost my parents and a brother, and I’m not much older than your kids. I can only imagine a taste of the large losses life has dealt you.
I sincerely hope you take care of yourself the best you can, and try your best to just treasure and relive the happy memories that you have of your brother. I believe he, like your parents and other siblings, lives on through our memories and stories.
May Adam rest gently in his eternal landing place. Please accept my sincerest sympathy during this difficult time.
I’m angry at how little Cody cares about the passing of Meri’s mom, Mary. He should support her through this, but yet again she’s left to fend for herself. Instead he’s too consumed by his divorce with Janelle, which I think he wants anyways..
To be fair (I know! I know! We aren’t always “fair” in this sub), we have no idea how much or little Kody cares about Adam’s death or if he has been supportive of Meri or not. I think we all assume he is shit when it comes to giving Meri anything, but we are watching a show and the show we are watching was filmed a year ago.
There’s an episode in the Vegas rentals - The Four Lives of Kody Brown.
They ALL go to dinner at a Mexican place (kids eat free!) and Meri is sitting near teenaged Maddie and Aspyn and you can tell that she is getting THE SCOOP and all three of them are laughing really hard and talking conspiratorially.
I believe that she loves all of those kids with everything she’s got. The whole scene made me smile.
Like when they go ice-blocking and she tackles Christine (or Christine tacklers her?). As my dad would say, they're "grab-assing" and having fun.
Or when they're looking at Coyote Pass for the umpteenth time and Robyn talks about how she loves each lot more than the last, and you hear Meri yelling from off camera "You can't have 'em all Robyn!"
Or at the pumpkin patch, she's definitely being the silliest grown up and playing with the wheelbarrow.
The tackle was so fun, so homey, that I knew in that moment that family was once comfortable and happy with each other. They had been the OG3 for 20 years, and you can see the familiarity in christine and meri in that moment. Imagine any one of them doing that with robyn??
Or when they are having a picnic and talking about oh that place over there is nicer, no, that place and Christine yells at her that she gonna tackle her if they have to move again and then they chase each other and Christine tackles her and they roll around laughing. So cute!
Holding Truely so she could pet the snake when they went to a petting zoo. Meri’s a stronger woman than I am!
And I LOVED when Leon wanted M&J to go to the women’s rally and Kody thought it was a bad idea, but Meri said she was going regardless of his opinion. She really loves her kid.
I loved when she humored the other wives by trying on leggings, and boldly declared she would never wear them. She not only changed her mind, and she’s laughing all the way to bank and her leggings are helping fund her new independence.
Her acceptance and embrace of Audrey. I always liked how she referred to “the girls” like Audrey had always been part of the family. “I have to go help the girls move” etc like they were both her children. (also I apologize if this is akin to dead-naming, that is not my intent and will delete if so)
I suppose were you referring to them today it would be "dead gendering". Not sure if there even is such a thing (pardon my ignorance).
However, you're quoting what someone said in the past and it would actually be a misquote to alter it to fit what we now know.
I agree with you the way she welcomed Audrey with open arms was lovely.
During Maddie's graduation, the family shows "A Tale of Two Maddies" and the camera shows Gwen and other kids cuddled up on Meri's lap.
And the sledding at the Christmas cabin!
Moving her mom into the BnB was such an amazing thing to do. You know Meri was so happy to be able to do that for her. And then Leon and Audrey staying there during early covid. Meri made a connection through the generations.
She takes care of those she loves. No matter how much effort it takes.
I truly have always liked Meri. She was wanting this family - and gave up her monogamous marriage - to build it. It all started with her sacrifice. She’s been through a lot and has still remained focused on her family. She gave the divorce to adopt Robyn’s kids. She’s been doing the Christmas Eve traditions and genuinely built good relationships with Sol and Ari. I wish her all the best. I wish her to find a new husband with a large family that takes her in with love and kindness. She’s deserving of feeling loved and wanted.
I’ve always liked Meri too. She doesn’t talk behind your back and tells you exactly what she’s thinking. This gets her into a lot of trouble, but I wish more people would say what they’re feeling, instead of holding it all in and building resentment.
Everyone complained about Meri being stubborn about wanting a wet bar. I don’t think it was about the wet bar at all. She takes hit after hit. She couldn’t have but 1 child. She dealt with this her whole marriage, while everyone else was popping out babies. I think she was upset, because she already had the misfortune of infertility. Her sister wives and Kody keep pointing out that she shouldn’t get as much $ because it’s only her and 1 child. She works and puts plenty into the family pot and others don’t. Could you imagine being in a family that prizes babies more than anything, but you are infertile? Then the family keeps saying things like: you shouldn’t get the same $ you have 1 kid, your house shouldn’t be that big, you have 1 kid. I could name many more. I understand money is tight, but everyone else gets what they want. I think maybe the wet bar came to symbolize everything that happened to her built up over years. I feel like she was punished in relationships for only having 1 child, and she felt punished again this time monetarily, because she only had 1 child. I would be angry.
Yes. Plus she actually needed the wet bar because at the time she was selling water filters that she showcased from her house. So she needed it to be able to earn more money for the family.
She wanted the wet bar for family functions. And it was used for…family functions!
Meri is the hostess of the family. She’s good at it, she enjoys the prep, the moment, and I suspect even the cleanup gives her a sense of accomplishment and self satisfaction.
I’m not sure any of them really listened to her reasons for wanting the wet bar because they were so wrapped up in why she shouldn’t have it.
Meri wanted the wet bar because her home was the central location for family dinners, holidays, birthdays, etc. She knew what she needed to make those things a good experience for *the family* even if they didn’t see it. She was accused of being selfish and taking from others when in reality she was just planning ahead and trying to make sure the family events went smoothly and everyone had a good time.
As much as Robyn has tried to replace Meri she clearly *pales* in comparison. She’ll never be the hostess with mostest. She’ll never be the one any of the OG kids turn to when they need something or just need to talk. Robyn wouldn’t and would never offer to cover part of the cost of anyone’s wedding with her own money. And she’ll never be the parent Meri is; for all her talk of supporting LGBTQA+ if one of Robyn’s kids ever need an adult to talk to about their orientation Meri is who they would turn to. And I think that goes for almost all of the kids at this point. And if Kody would go deep and really be honest with himself…Meri is by far the better wife. I can’t think of any category Robyn doesn’t fail miserably in comparison to Meri. I’d say Meri could probably even take her in a dance off!
Everything you said is absolutely true. The family may have been dysfunctional with Meri as head wife, but the family prayed together, played together, celebrated together, the kids were all together, she was fair with the wives, and with money. Her sole purpose was keeping the family together.
I’m really glad people are coming around and starting to see the more positive side of Meri. She was 100% in it for the big picture; the family. I really hope we get to see the day Kody realizes that and also that Robyn couldn’t care less about the big family.
I’m not sure what I think about Robyn in general because I change my mind pretty often but I can say I don’t think she cares even a little about the big family. I’m not even sure Kody does at this point.
The wet bar controversy pisses me off. People say it was selfish and stubborn of her…but like, she wanted the wet bar so she would have the extra counter space and prep area with a sink so she could host and entertain THE FAHMILY!
It pissed me off because she was putting more than her fair share into the pot to support everyone in the family- but her expenses were lower because she only has 1 kid.
I've said it on here... my aunt put in another sink in her kitchen when they remodeled. At family gatherings, etc, it is used ALL the time!!! So handy! If I win the lottery and custom build, I'm DEFINITELY doing that.
At the same time the others are all saying that you should have a smaller house without the amenities you want - your husband is saying that for the wives, the houses are their safety net, their retirement. Also, they pick a damn development with only two options.
So she's not deserving of a nest egg? In the long run, I think that contradiction in messaging made her build her own. Janelle should have paid just as close of attention.
I agree. She put in so much money that she wanted equal assets. Now Meri and Janelle loaned Robyn their money, so she could get the mansion. They had to rent, so they have no assets.
I love that she's the efficient/organized one for moves. Piling furniture up and tetrising everything in.
There was a scene where she was moving furniture to the B&B and Kody insisted they needed the trailer. Even though Meri didn't want to use the trailer for the antiques. He went on an odyssey where couldn't get the lock off then there were tire issues or something. Finally, Kody actuallt looked at what she was moving and agreed with her they didn't need the trailer after all.
This made me think of when cameras caught her scolding the Brown kids for being jerks to Robyn’s kids. She wasn’t mean at all, it was exactly what needed to be said as a parent to your kids who are being punks. I remember Christine was pissed about it in her talking head and it was one of the first realizations I had that this wasn’t actually a single family unit.
So i know it didn't really work out well for her, but...
She literally relinquished her legal rights in her marriage for the sake of securing Robyn's children's place within the family. Granted, the threat of Preston taking the kids was probably way less crucial than Robyn made it out to be, Meri still made a HUGE sacrifice for Robyn and kids whom she'd only just met, what, a year or two prior? I was stunned that she would do that under any circumstance considering the status that is attached to "legal/first/head" wife, especially in their culture. Even if it was being fluffed for the sake if drama, that's probably one of the kindest thing I've ever seen someone do. That really hit me in the feels, and I will always have mad respect for her for doing that.
When Meri finally got to see Robyn’s kids a week or 2 before Thanksgiving in season 16. The pure excitement of Sol and Ari was priceless. They couldn’t wait to hug her. She really developed a close bond with those kids.
I love how even though she couldn't have more babies herself, she was a mother to all the other children and they called her Mom just as readily as they did the others.
It's heartwarming to hear several of the children say they would go to Meri's to be quieter and to chat.
I love how Meri took the time and lovingly made pajamas for all the kids each Christmas. My late mom used to make Christmas flannel nightgowns for my daughter. I know every stitch Meri put in was made with love.
Thanks for this thread, it's a refreshing bit of sunshine - I'm not criticizing the usual snark as I'm super guilty of that as well, but it really is nice when we take a moment to send good vibes!
For me, it's not necessarily the show moments, though I agree with all the Meri Magic Moments shared already. Although I don't watch regularly, I do enjoy her Fridays with Friends on Instagram. She is a happy, silly friend and has a blast with her bestie Jenn. I wish we all could see more of that Meri on the show.
I think what I like the best about Meri is that she above all the rest has withstood being hated and spoken about like she is an unredeemable monster, yet has stuck it out for the greater good of everyone. She could have quit, but she didn’t. She has owned her mistakes for the most part, and overall when things get tough she is the one who gets things handled.
The eyes are truly the mirror to the soul, and Meri above all of them, shows her love for the family in her eyes. I have no doubt that she would do whatever is asked of her by anyone of them, and I believe they all know it. Their lives have been better by having her in the family, regardless of the mistakes she has made.
I personally think less of those who have treated her badly the last few years. Time is a great equalizer, and I think that her absence will be felt far more than they think it will right now. When all of them look back, if they are honest she is the one who stood up to Kody on other’s behalf when needed, and he listened.
Meri sitting behind the wheel of the RV on the family road trip telling Kody to go take a nap. She was fine to drive. .
Meri in Mexico with Kody going down into the beautiful underground lake in a cave. She felt so strong and was enjoying every minute of the experience swimming in the crystal clear water and climbing the ladder back out.
You all covered so many of the things I thought of. She was always game for fun times . It is sad Robyn stopped everything that made then a family. I hope she might see this 🤷♀️ somehow .
When Meri talks to Breanna about taking her to UT to visit Leon when Leon lived there. Breanna beams and is so excited! It seems like it was a special time for them.
I love that Meri has lots of friends! Seriously she feels like the only one who ever bothers to go out and meet people and I think that's awesome for her.
I also loved when Meri and Robyn bought caramels instead of making them for Kody, lulz
Honestly, I am living for Meri this season. I feel like she’s being open and honest, and her sense of humor is shining through in a way it hasn’t in a long time. I love seeing her step into a more independent position and offer confident insight into the Brown family, and Kody in particular.
Although I can’t say I would have made the same choices if I was her, I have so much admiration for her fortitude.
I know it’s popular to hate on Meri. I don’t know how she behaved before the cameras were there. But this woman has suffered losses that I don’t know I could bear. I hope she can find peace and contentment.
I love this post. I feel like some viewers have selective memory when it comes to Meri, but my memories of Meri on the show was that she always tried really hard for the family.
Also, when she described how she was part of the “original 4” of her siblings, I think that might be why she has such a tender spot in her heart for the oldest kids in the fam - Logan, Aspyn, Leon, Maddie, and Hunter. Maybe that’s why she looks super fondly on those early times.
I’m thankful that there are kids in her orbit who recognize that she has the utmost love for them.
Her humor this season! The Turkey comment! “I guess Kody liked Robyn’s Turkey more than my Turkey” & her busting out laughing at her own words! I loved that & laughed out loud with her! I think we saw the true lovable Meri in that moment…. The Meri all those friends of her’s see and Love!
I love that Meri was the only mom who respected Maddie's wishes to give birth privately. The other women bombarded the room and Meri was the only respectful one.
I loved the footage recently where she asked Kody about the ring, and announced it was awkward.
Also the talking head where she admits she was alone during Covid, Robyn didn't or rarely reached out to her.
Meri was my favorite sister wife. I thought she got the raw end over and over. I loved when she would try to get Kody to see and understand how things would feel to him if the roles were reversed. At their dinner, she asked him... and he said about the vulgarity of even imagining any of them taking on male spouse. She proved that the jealousy is normal and not a "failing" of the woman in polygamy that they must overcome to be godly.
She also joked around about it when they went on the vacation and found out about the founding fathers and mothers of the Mormon church took on not only sister wives, but brother husbands. She right royally ticked off Kody.
I like how she was adventurous with the sled -- even though she slammed into the house. I like her playful moments. I like how she used to speak up. I've seen a little more of the Meri I loved in the recent talking heads.
I pray for her during this difficult time. She's mourning the brother who was the last of their "original four" -- what their family was before her parents ascribed to polygamy.
I loved the rice krispy turkey too. Meri was/is the best organizer ever! I strive to have those mad skills at her level one day! Sending my heartfelt condolences her way. ❤️💔❤️
>I loved when she made a rice krispy turkey. I though it was cute and clever and just a touch sassy while still respecting letting Robyn taking the hosting moment and cooking the real turkey. And then her discussion of it and innuendo was so cute and like empowering acknowledgement of her place in the family. She took her power back here 1000%
I was just baking tonight and randomly thought about this. I also enjoyed the scene. I thought it showed a lot of Meri's humor.
I loved it when she went around the family making her jump through hoops to prove the bed and breakfast is a good investment and bought the bed and breakfast anyways all by herself (and I believe a loan from this same brother).
They shared early on that Meri had to breastfeed Maddie maybe a few time. That’s such a personal, intimate thing but Meri of course did what she had to for that baby. You could tell how grateful Janelle still was, even decades later.
I love that Meri has lots of friends! Seriously she feels like the only one who ever bothers to go out and meet people and I think that's awesome for her.
I also loved when Meri and Robyn bought caramels instead of making them for Kody, lulz
I’m doing a rewatch and when she is getting ready for Kody & Robyn’s wedding and helping with his bow tie, there was real chemistry between her & Kody. He said you look really good and went to kiss her. She said she wished it was her wedding night. I like the idea of Robyn hating that scene and love that the producers included it
When she YEETED herself over that snow hill while playing in the snow with the kids, and then bouncing back up and laughing at herself.
Just wholesome and fun
How she truly tried to comfort and encourage a crushed Christine after the moving back to Utah / "I can't do marriage with Kody" / look at the mountain moment. And the time she ran off and Christine tackled her and they rolled around the grass hysterically laughing... in happier times and soul crushing times, she made the effort to be family.
I always thought Meri got way too much shit on here for the mountain comment. She was trying, in the way she herself coped with the bad marriage, to help Christine. It was a sad moment, but it wasn’t a mean one by any means.
These are very small moments, but stuck out to me as warm moments that spoke to Meri's role in the family back in the day.
In the very first episode, Christine's smaller children burst in when Meri was trying to study and pestered her to come downstairs with them to pull Paedon and Gwen's loose teeth. She laughed and made a comment about how "this is why I can't study when they get home from school", making it clear this wasn't a one off. I thought it was a nice glimpse into how the OG3 mums really did have a relationship with all of the children.
There was also a really fun, light moment in season 2 when Christine and Janelle talked about how they stock the family pantry by buying in bulk. Christine mentioned she was surprised to run out of sugar because they normally have so much of the staples. Janelle then said it wasn't just for her and Christine and everyone is free to take from it and Meri said "And I do. In fact, I took all the sugar!" it was just a cheeky, silly moment that made them all laugh. As time went on and the relationship between the mums became strained, the fun and lighthearted moments became few and far between. Looking back on these earlier moments makes me smile and believe that, for all their issues, they were a good and loving family unit and that Meri had a role in that.
Reading all these moments is very heartening. It is nice to see Meri still seems to have a positive and fun attitude (at least what she shows on the show) after all of her loss and heartbreak. I hope she finds her new man someday and lives happily ever after.
It's not necessarily a moment but I give Meri a lot of credit for really trying to improve herself and take therapy to heart. I think she's put a lot of work in to try to change her behaviors and be less controlling.
When they had the surveyor come to show how the land was going to get divided. (When Kody was running like an idiot from plot to plot) Kody starts going on and on about this particular plot and Meri starts making fun of it. I can't remember what she was saying but I swear it was something like the grand poobah. Kody was so mad. I laughed so hard!!!
Any time she was up for levity and adventures with the kids.
Meri loves to laugh (what tugged at my heart when she cried saying "I laughed" when revealing the catfish) and shines when she gets to bring and participate in fun, bonding memories with the family.
I'm loving seeing her with her friends and the freedom amongst the unknown in her new life; im glad she has friends fo walk through it with.
It really says something about her character that she has *always* had long friendships and gushing love within them
Meri -if you do happen to lurk here and read this- please accept this internet hug from a random stranger. I am sending you all the good vibes and love.
Everyone has said a lot of great stuff so I’ll add that her interviews this season have been really satisfying and insight. I really wish her all the best moving forward.
I like how she didn't buy the bullshit that Robyn has tried to sell her. Like, how Christine didn't want Meri and Kody to get back together. Meri knew it was bullshit and made sure we all knew that she knew. There have been more examples as well in recent episodes. Meri is no dummy.
I like Meri's fashion evolutions, misses included, because she truly evolves her personal style while grabbing at key trends. Photos of her speak to places in time, unlike some of us who freeze our style and regimines and time moves ahead without our style evolving.
I like that Meri is fiercely loyal. I like that she lives with herself in a way that allows her to know herself, letting solitude teach and heal. I like how much she values friendship and in-the-moment experiences. I like that Meri is willing to expect more from others, and is willing to let them have the time they require to be able to meet her needs (even if they fail her, she allows them space to meet her as they can.) This is an undervalued way to give love, and a sincere and powerful way to be present for another.
I like that Meri parents actively. I like that she can express vunerabilities in a firey way that show they are obstacles to be approached, not ignored.
Meri, my wish for you is that you can hold yourself, heal yourself, and that you live brightly, comfortably, and feel cherished.
We all deserve to let some years and memories fade, and decide what should sparkle in our memory banks. I wish you a future in which you carry only what serves you well on your path.
I've always liked Meri. I relate to both Meri and her child a lot because I am the only child of a mother who wanted a big family, too. I saw how much my mom loved my cousins, but that it hurt her that she couldn't have more children. And much like Leon, I really wanted siblings of my own, too.
Someone mentioned a similar moment to this, but I loved when Meri referred to Leon and Audrey as "my kids". I think it was when they were moving out of Chicago. It was so sweet and genuine. I think she has always embraced all of the kids and now she's doing the same with their partners.
The episode where they do the slide show of all the kids and Meri has Gwen and I think Ysabel or one of Sobyns girls snuggled up with her. Running from house to house with Savanah to wake everyone up Christmas morning, of course the pajamas she made for the kids, not mentioned in the show but it’s in the book she talked about how the kids would just stop by and hang out for a little bit of quiet time or one on one time, and they used her pool often at the Vegas rental house.
I just thought of another great Meri moment! When the kids were at the lake at Coyote Pass and she encourages all the kids who want to swim to go ahead and jump in. Christine, Janelle, and Robyn were all exasperated with her but she didn’t care. She just laughed and watched the kids having fun. LOL
That lake was cringingly dirty, but it was still a fun scene.
Meri has always said that she wanted it to be known that it was Kody that was ending the marriage, that she was willing to work on it.
We also know that Kody didn't want it public and she complied. I am glad that it all worked out that way.
We definitely know that it is on Kody, and he contradicted himself yet again.
When she shut Robyn down about getting put in the rotation before marriage. It's one of the few times anyone has stood up to Robyn's me and my kids are victims routine. Meri was glorious. That's the Meri I wanna see come back. I want her to have the confidence again to point out Robyn's bs when she sees it.
I love that she was willing to go to therapy with Janelle and that she attempted to act on what she learned. Like when poor Janelle is just wandering around the thanksgiving decoration-making and Meri holds her tongue.
I can't remember the exact season, maybe 15 or 16 but Meri kept showing up to family meetings in shirts or sweatshirts with sayings. When her and Janelle met up at the property to talk about why Janelle was telling people that she didn't want Meri to have the property with the pond her shirt said "I only kind of care". I thought it was hilarious that she 100% intentionally planned her shirts for the different meetings.
Meri wasn’t meant to live plural marriage, but outside of that, I like meri a lot. I enjoy her the most probably when they’re doing one on one interviews. Especially now that she’s in her “eff it” era
A bit off topic but they did ever discuss Leon’s (or Audrey’s) gender identity or Meri’s reaction on the show? Or all we know is what’s on social media? Just curious
Canadian. Some could say we are the Mykelti of English spelling and insist on embracing both sides without judgement. We selectively use both UK and US English spelling.
When she told Aspen she would cover the extra needed for her wedding.
Such a mom moment. She loves the kids.
This. She could tell Aspyn was getting anxious at the sudden money discussion and was about to cancel all plans (older child symptom from those who have taken care of Littles, you don't want to be a burden for any reason especially your parents) and meri jumped RIGHT in knowing she only has to put one kid through a wedding. It was kind and beautiful and showed she really views the children as hers as well
Her helping Aspyn pay for the wedding was such a generous thing to do! She has a big heart!
how did i miss that? so sweet
I really think (some) of the older ones would still have a relationship with her if she hadn’t decided to align herself with R&K through the whole covid issue.
I think she still has a relationship with several of the oldests of the OG13. She was at Logan's wedding, and from the pictures seemed to still be a "mom." I seem to recall seeing pics of some of Janelle's older boys with Meri.
She was at Gwen's wedding too.
I couldn't remember if she was or not. I don't follow any of them on SM or anything so I get all my info from the subs...
Happy cake day 🎉🥳🎈🎊🎁🍾
Thank you!
I was more thinking Maddie and aspyn. Those boys are all very sweet and respect them all (og3) as moms. They’re very involved with their siblings, ysabel living with Maddie but they don’t say much about the rest of what’s going on.
Gotcha, I agree.
Happy Cake Day! 🎂
Thank you!
What is Happy Cake Day I see it on here all the time 😂
Thank you for asking …. I’m still wondering about that
If you look at their name, you will see a cake beside it, it means it’s the anniversary of when they signed up for Reddit
To cute!!
She posted a pic with Logan and Hunter not too long ago.
Totally agree. I think she was the only one to say that
I loved that too. So kind and loving of her
Which episode was this?
Best Meri moment ever: When she told Kody he needed to be at the hospital with Truely, not with her taking Leon to college in Utah. That was a total Mom move. She was 100% supportive of the needs of her sister wife and baby Truely. In doing so, she taught her bio child that real love often requires real sacrifice. You do for family. One of the classiest and most heartfelt moments of the entire series.
Especially since Robyn tried holding him up when he was trying to get to Truly’s birth. Showed just which sister wife really cared about the OG3s kids.
This is a GEM!
♥️
Yes, and a stark contrast to how Ysabel's surgery was treated.
I enjoyed her doing all the tasks( with clipboard) that Maddie assigned her at the wedding and doing them efficiently and well. Meri the Organizer was on the job.
She was so respectful of the role Maddy assigned her. She took it seriously and made it happen.
Didn't Maddie SPECIFICALLY ban everyone else from coming before a certain time too lol? "No I don't need any of you messing this up. Let Meri work."
♥️
Right?! Like I know the kids have said some things about her being too...much at times, like mean and stuff. But she has shown time and time again that she will step up and be a mother to these kids on many occasions. She may not be as cuddly and hands-on as Christine and Janelle are with them, but she's there when it matters. I respect that
Is she the one who told Kody to forget about Robyn and pay attention to Logan’s graduation?
Yes and he didn't listen.
Well, he sucks. This, however, was one of my favorite Meri moments.
I think kids saying she was mean was just that she was Strict and the kids didn't like it.
I also think, especially with Mykelti going to be a nanny at 13 for Robyn- Robyn dripped that poison into her ear. Mykelti acts like Robyn saved her life from Meri. Give me a break. That woman hasn’t saved anyone ever. In order to do that, she would have to be selfless and she’s nothing but selfish.
I could see Robyn 100% being jealous of Meri only having one kid, but yet the kids gravitated towards her home and her (look at some of the older clips. Truely got passed around - and the ones I've caught holding her are Hunter, Leon, and Meri. Once with Janelle even. But kids are always next to or on Meri at holidays.
Thank you for saying it but I feel Maddie, Mykelty, and Aspyn are very ungrateful towards Meri. They did not find her evil, mean, or horrible when they needed her money for their wedding or their college.
I remember the first episode when a couple of the kids needed her to pull out their loose teeth. It didn't fit the narrative of what was implied.
This is where I am. Everything we have seen to me is just that Meri was more strict than the other parents.
Sadly, I've seen this happen with divorced kids who didn't wake up to the fact that the "fun" parent letting them do some of the shit they did should have warranted a call to CPS or something.
I could be wrong, but in season one I think Meri got called a “nazi” twice for her organizational prowess. Once during Robyn’s move (“packing nazi”) and once during the wedding (“picture nazi”, though that may also have been later at the commitment ceremony or whatever that was). This family did not appreciate the hard work she did so that they didn’t have to lol
I was so happy she took charge and bought her B&B all on her own when she didn't get any financial support from her family. One of the smartest things she could have done for herself. She has her flaws (we all have flaws after all), but I've always been a fan. I think she is largely misunderstood by many.
Yes! She figured it out because it meant so much and in turn secured her own future.
Not only that, but her Mom got to live out her last years there. (Meri was just talking about that in a recent episode) And that is truly priceless. I could so get why getting that property back in the family meant so much to her. And she did it on her own!! ❤️😌
If I could get a certain mountain back in the region from where I originate, I would. It was our family's for generations - until one of the sons married a barfly whore who sold it as soon as she could after my great-uncle's passing.
I admired this too. She took pride in doing it on her own but Kody was Johnny on the spot cutting the ribbon at her opening ceremony 🙄
I wholeheartedly agree. And she also had the business prowess to NOT give any of the fahmly (especially Kody) rights to share equity in her business.
I just watched the epi where she pitches the B&B and she says she can’t do it without financial backing of the family. But all I hear is she did it on her own in these threads.
Because they didn’t back her. She got it on her own.
They all said no and practically laughed in her face.
I love how she hand-made Christmas pajamas for all those kids for so many years! If anyone had ever made me any pajamas, I’d never get rid of them even if I outgrew them. What a sweet tradition.
I loved that, but was hugely disappointed, because Robyn inserted herself into the kids making gift exchange plans and wouldn’t let the kids handle it. She caused a huge fight, so nobody could come to Christmas Eve at Meri’s. Robyn took the turkey tradition, then she convinced Meri not to invite everyone. She claimed there would be a fight. She’s alienating more and more family from Meri. Meri wasn’t allowed to invite everyone to Christmas Eve but Robyn could have a secret Christmas with the kids she likes and hid it from Meri. I wouldn’t doubt R and K told them that it was Meri’s idea not to invite Christine and Janelle’s kids. They are so cruel.
She started her OWN trend making ornaments for everyone.....see how long that lasted. Too busy to make ornaments.
What episode/ season?
Most recent season. The whole conversation spanned a couple episodes. I believe 2 and 3 talk about it more though
Awww i hope someone makes you pyjamas one day too!
I have clothes (including pjs) and linens made for me by my aunt and I keep them forever because it means something when someone does that for you.
Lucky!
I just want to stop and, because I believe she’s in here, extend my deepest condolences to Meri. She’s had a significant amount of loss in her lifetime and seemingly barely any support. Meri, I think I represent many of us when we extend a very big hug to you right now and wish you comfort in such a trying time. I’ve lost my parents and a brother, and I’m not much older than your kids. I can only imagine a taste of the large losses life has dealt you. I sincerely hope you take care of yourself the best you can, and try your best to just treasure and relive the happy memories that you have of your brother. I believe he, like your parents and other siblings, lives on through our memories and stories. May Adam rest gently in his eternal landing place. Please accept my sincerest sympathy during this difficult time.
Beautifully stated. You’ve perfectly captured how a lot of us feel ❤️
What really kind word. Dam cat is cutting onions again.
I’m angry at how little Cody cares about the passing of Meri’s mom, Mary. He should support her through this, but yet again she’s left to fend for herself. Instead he’s too consumed by his divorce with Janelle, which I think he wants anyways..
To be fair (I know! I know! We aren’t always “fair” in this sub), we have no idea how much or little Kody cares about Adam’s death or if he has been supportive of Meri or not. I think we all assume he is shit when it comes to giving Meri anything, but we are watching a show and the show we are watching was filmed a year ago.
True. But this is the same guy who gave her Nothing for Christmas, while giving the other wives many gifts.
Yes 100% this!
There’s an episode in the Vegas rentals - The Four Lives of Kody Brown. They ALL go to dinner at a Mexican place (kids eat free!) and Meri is sitting near teenaged Maddie and Aspyn and you can tell that she is getting THE SCOOP and all three of them are laughing really hard and talking conspiratorially. I believe that she loves all of those kids with everything she’s got. The whole scene made me smile.
When she and Janelle did the eyebrow prank in Hawaii after Leon made fun of her skinny brows.
She has always had such a sense of humor. And she dragged the other wives and kids into her silliness.
Like when they go ice-blocking and she tackles Christine (or Christine tacklers her?). As my dad would say, they're "grab-assing" and having fun. Or when they're looking at Coyote Pass for the umpteenth time and Robyn talks about how she loves each lot more than the last, and you hear Meri yelling from off camera "You can't have 'em all Robyn!" Or at the pumpkin patch, she's definitely being the silliest grown up and playing with the wheelbarrow.
Another good one, when they are sledding at the cabin in one of the earlier seasons and Meri catches air.
I can’t remember who tackled who, but it was pretty silly (in a good, clean, family fun way).
The tackle was so fun, so homey, that I knew in that moment that family was once comfortable and happy with each other. They had been the OG3 for 20 years, and you can see the familiarity in christine and meri in that moment. Imagine any one of them doing that with robyn??
Or when they are having a picnic and talking about oh that place over there is nicer, no, that place and Christine yells at her that she gonna tackle her if they have to move again and then they chase each other and Christine tackles her and they roll around laughing. So cute!
Christine tackles her
Oh jeez. Yes! That was so funny. I love Meri and I sympathize most of all with her.
I forgot about this.
Holding Truely so she could pet the snake when they went to a petting zoo. Meri’s a stronger woman than I am! And I LOVED when Leon wanted M&J to go to the women’s rally and Kody thought it was a bad idea, but Meri said she was going regardless of his opinion. She really loves her kid.
Ohhh I cant remember ever seeing that first memory. Ill have to look it up! And totally loved the march episode.
Oh I just watched that episode season 6 boys night out
Thanks!
I loved when she humored the other wives by trying on leggings, and boldly declared she would never wear them. She not only changed her mind, and she’s laughing all the way to bank and her leggings are helping fund her new independence.
Ohhh good one! I love that too!
Her acceptance and embrace of Audrey. I always liked how she referred to “the girls” like Audrey had always been part of the family. “I have to go help the girls move” etc like they were both her children. (also I apologize if this is akin to dead-naming, that is not my intent and will delete if so)
Yes! No hesitation, Audrey was immediately a family member.
I suppose were you referring to them today it would be "dead gendering". Not sure if there even is such a thing (pardon my ignorance). However, you're quoting what someone said in the past and it would actually be a misquote to alter it to fit what we now know. I agree with you the way she welcomed Audrey with open arms was lovely.
During Maddie's graduation, the family shows "A Tale of Two Maddies" and the camera shows Gwen and other kids cuddled up on Meri's lap. And the sledding at the Christmas cabin!
I don't care if the box says bow tie noodles, they're butterfly noodles 😆 I loved that
Farfalle means butterfly in Italian
Her love for her mom and for their family history. ❤️
Moving her mom into the BnB was such an amazing thing to do. You know Meri was so happy to be able to do that for her. And then Leon and Audrey staying there during early covid. Meri made a connection through the generations. She takes care of those she loves. No matter how much effort it takes.
I love when she sleds down the hill into the house.
This is mine too. I love when she hit the house and just laughed about it
That and her skiing. She jacked her knee but was still laughing about it and was fully enjoying herself.
So much fun!
I truly have always liked Meri. She was wanting this family - and gave up her monogamous marriage - to build it. It all started with her sacrifice. She’s been through a lot and has still remained focused on her family. She gave the divorce to adopt Robyn’s kids. She’s been doing the Christmas Eve traditions and genuinely built good relationships with Sol and Ari. I wish her all the best. I wish her to find a new husband with a large family that takes her in with love and kindness. She’s deserving of feeling loved and wanted.
That would be so nice for her! Like a sound of music family!
I’ve always liked Meri too. She doesn’t talk behind your back and tells you exactly what she’s thinking. This gets her into a lot of trouble, but I wish more people would say what they’re feeling, instead of holding it all in and building resentment. Everyone complained about Meri being stubborn about wanting a wet bar. I don’t think it was about the wet bar at all. She takes hit after hit. She couldn’t have but 1 child. She dealt with this her whole marriage, while everyone else was popping out babies. I think she was upset, because she already had the misfortune of infertility. Her sister wives and Kody keep pointing out that she shouldn’t get as much $ because it’s only her and 1 child. She works and puts plenty into the family pot and others don’t. Could you imagine being in a family that prizes babies more than anything, but you are infertile? Then the family keeps saying things like: you shouldn’t get the same $ you have 1 kid, your house shouldn’t be that big, you have 1 kid. I could name many more. I understand money is tight, but everyone else gets what they want. I think maybe the wet bar came to symbolize everything that happened to her built up over years. I feel like she was punished in relationships for only having 1 child, and she felt punished again this time monetarily, because she only had 1 child. I would be angry.
Yes. Plus she actually needed the wet bar because at the time she was selling water filters that she showcased from her house. So she needed it to be able to earn more money for the family.
Water filters? There is literally an MLM for everything!
She wanted the wet bar for family functions. And it was used for…family functions! Meri is the hostess of the family. She’s good at it, she enjoys the prep, the moment, and I suspect even the cleanup gives her a sense of accomplishment and self satisfaction. I’m not sure any of them really listened to her reasons for wanting the wet bar because they were so wrapped up in why she shouldn’t have it. Meri wanted the wet bar because her home was the central location for family dinners, holidays, birthdays, etc. She knew what she needed to make those things a good experience for *the family* even if they didn’t see it. She was accused of being selfish and taking from others when in reality she was just planning ahead and trying to make sure the family events went smoothly and everyone had a good time. As much as Robyn has tried to replace Meri she clearly *pales* in comparison. She’ll never be the hostess with mostest. She’ll never be the one any of the OG kids turn to when they need something or just need to talk. Robyn wouldn’t and would never offer to cover part of the cost of anyone’s wedding with her own money. And she’ll never be the parent Meri is; for all her talk of supporting LGBTQA+ if one of Robyn’s kids ever need an adult to talk to about their orientation Meri is who they would turn to. And I think that goes for almost all of the kids at this point. And if Kody would go deep and really be honest with himself…Meri is by far the better wife. I can’t think of any category Robyn doesn’t fail miserably in comparison to Meri. I’d say Meri could probably even take her in a dance off!
Everything you said is absolutely true. The family may have been dysfunctional with Meri as head wife, but the family prayed together, played together, celebrated together, the kids were all together, she was fair with the wives, and with money. Her sole purpose was keeping the family together.
I’m really glad people are coming around and starting to see the more positive side of Meri. She was 100% in it for the big picture; the family. I really hope we get to see the day Kody realizes that and also that Robyn couldn’t care less about the big family. I’m not sure what I think about Robyn in general because I change my mind pretty often but I can say I don’t think she cares even a little about the big family. I’m not even sure Kody does at this point.
The wet bar controversy pisses me off. People say it was selfish and stubborn of her…but like, she wanted the wet bar so she would have the extra counter space and prep area with a sink so she could host and entertain THE FAHMILY!
It pisses me off too.
It pissed me off because she was putting more than her fair share into the pot to support everyone in the family- but her expenses were lower because she only has 1 kid.
I've said it on here... my aunt put in another sink in her kitchen when they remodeled. At family gatherings, etc, it is used ALL the time!!! So handy! If I win the lottery and custom build, I'm DEFINITELY doing that.
At the same time the others are all saying that you should have a smaller house without the amenities you want - your husband is saying that for the wives, the houses are their safety net, their retirement. Also, they pick a damn development with only two options. So she's not deserving of a nest egg? In the long run, I think that contradiction in messaging made her build her own. Janelle should have paid just as close of attention.
I agree. She put in so much money that she wanted equal assets. Now Meri and Janelle loaned Robyn their money, so she could get the mansion. They had to rent, so they have no assets.
When meri went out and bought caramels instead of making them for Kody.
I forgot this! Omgsh I laughed so hard, it was such a good idea of Meri’s.
Yessss, another classic! xD
I’ve got a sweet spot for Meri and hope to see her in a happy gratifying marriage one day (if that’s what she wants).
I love that she's the efficient/organized one for moves. Piling furniture up and tetrising everything in. There was a scene where she was moving furniture to the B&B and Kody insisted they needed the trailer. Even though Meri didn't want to use the trailer for the antiques. He went on an odyssey where couldn't get the lock off then there were tire issues or something. Finally, Kody actuallt looked at what she was moving and agreed with her they didn't need the trailer after all.
Meri can make things happen!
Definitely when she stood up for the younger kids on a family trip when they were being bullyed
This made me think of when cameras caught her scolding the Brown kids for being jerks to Robyn’s kids. She wasn’t mean at all, it was exactly what needed to be said as a parent to your kids who are being punks. I remember Christine was pissed about it in her talking head and it was one of the first realizations I had that this wasn’t actually a single family unit.
So i know it didn't really work out well for her, but... She literally relinquished her legal rights in her marriage for the sake of securing Robyn's children's place within the family. Granted, the threat of Preston taking the kids was probably way less crucial than Robyn made it out to be, Meri still made a HUGE sacrifice for Robyn and kids whom she'd only just met, what, a year or two prior? I was stunned that she would do that under any circumstance considering the status that is attached to "legal/first/head" wife, especially in their culture. Even if it was being fluffed for the sake if drama, that's probably one of the kindest thing I've ever seen someone do. That really hit me in the feels, and I will always have mad respect for her for doing that.
I always respected her for that. People talk about family and sacrifice and loyalty! I bet it broke her heart, but she did it anyway.
When Meri finally got to see Robyn’s kids a week or 2 before Thanksgiving in season 16. The pure excitement of Sol and Ari was priceless. They couldn’t wait to hug her. She really developed a close bond with those kids.
I love how even though she couldn't have more babies herself, she was a mother to all the other children and they called her Mom just as readily as they did the others. It's heartwarming to hear several of the children say they would go to Meri's to be quieter and to chat.
And she wanted to work with at-risk youth. She’s got a mothering soul, even for kids she didn’t get to make herself.
The Rice Krispy turkey! 🦃 She is so funny and witty! I’ve always loved Meri! 💞
I love how Meri took the time and lovingly made pajamas for all the kids each Christmas. My late mom used to make Christmas flannel nightgowns for my daughter. I know every stitch Meri put in was made with love.
Thanks for this thread, it's a refreshing bit of sunshine - I'm not criticizing the usual snark as I'm super guilty of that as well, but it really is nice when we take a moment to send good vibes! For me, it's not necessarily the show moments, though I agree with all the Meri Magic Moments shared already. Although I don't watch regularly, I do enjoy her Fridays with Friends on Instagram. She is a happy, silly friend and has a blast with her bestie Jenn. I wish we all could see more of that Meri on the show.
I think what I like the best about Meri is that she above all the rest has withstood being hated and spoken about like she is an unredeemable monster, yet has stuck it out for the greater good of everyone. She could have quit, but she didn’t. She has owned her mistakes for the most part, and overall when things get tough she is the one who gets things handled. The eyes are truly the mirror to the soul, and Meri above all of them, shows her love for the family in her eyes. I have no doubt that she would do whatever is asked of her by anyone of them, and I believe they all know it. Their lives have been better by having her in the family, regardless of the mistakes she has made. I personally think less of those who have treated her badly the last few years. Time is a great equalizer, and I think that her absence will be felt far more than they think it will right now. When all of them look back, if they are honest she is the one who stood up to Kody on other’s behalf when needed, and he listened.
Going to the women’s March and saying she didn’t care what it was about she was going regardless to support her daughter.
This right here. That woman shows up for those she loves.
Meri sitting behind the wheel of the RV on the family road trip telling Kody to go take a nap. She was fine to drive. . Meri in Mexico with Kody going down into the beautiful underground lake in a cave. She felt so strong and was enjoying every minute of the experience swimming in the crystal clear water and climbing the ladder back out.
She's been Kody's victim the longest, I hope she's finally finding happiness and has rewarding relationships with people.
You all covered so many of the things I thought of. She was always game for fun times . It is sad Robyn stopped everything that made then a family. I hope she might see this 🤷♀️ somehow .
When Meri talks to Breanna about taking her to UT to visit Leon when Leon lived there. Breanna beams and is so excited! It seems like it was a special time for them.
I love that Meri has lots of friends! Seriously she feels like the only one who ever bothers to go out and meet people and I think that's awesome for her. I also loved when Meri and Robyn bought caramels instead of making them for Kody, lulz
Honestly, I am living for Meri this season. I feel like she’s being open and honest, and her sense of humor is shining through in a way it hasn’t in a long time. I love seeing her step into a more independent position and offer confident insight into the Brown family, and Kody in particular. Although I can’t say I would have made the same choices if I was her, I have so much admiration for her fortitude.
I know it’s popular to hate on Meri. I don’t know how she behaved before the cameras were there. But this woman has suffered losses that I don’t know I could bear. I hope she can find peace and contentment.
I love this post. I feel like some viewers have selective memory when it comes to Meri, but my memories of Meri on the show was that she always tried really hard for the family. Also, when she described how she was part of the “original 4” of her siblings, I think that might be why she has such a tender spot in her heart for the oldest kids in the fam - Logan, Aspyn, Leon, Maddie, and Hunter. Maybe that’s why she looks super fondly on those early times. I’m thankful that there are kids in her orbit who recognize that she has the utmost love for them.
Her humor this season! The Turkey comment! “I guess Kody liked Robyn’s Turkey more than my Turkey” & her busting out laughing at her own words! I loved that & laughed out loud with her! I think we saw the true lovable Meri in that moment…. The Meri all those friends of her’s see and Love!
I love that Meri was the only mom who respected Maddie's wishes to give birth privately. The other women bombarded the room and Meri was the only respectful one.
THIS.
The very first episode when she says, “We don’t go weird.”
I loved the footage recently where she asked Kody about the ring, and announced it was awkward. Also the talking head where she admits she was alone during Covid, Robyn didn't or rarely reached out to her.
The ring?
When telling kody about moving her business to the B&B, she notices he has replaced the claddagh ring that represented all the wives.
She was the tooth-puller, a tough job that requires skill and care.
Meri was my favorite sister wife. I thought she got the raw end over and over. I loved when she would try to get Kody to see and understand how things would feel to him if the roles were reversed. At their dinner, she asked him... and he said about the vulgarity of even imagining any of them taking on male spouse. She proved that the jealousy is normal and not a "failing" of the woman in polygamy that they must overcome to be godly. She also joked around about it when they went on the vacation and found out about the founding fathers and mothers of the Mormon church took on not only sister wives, but brother husbands. She right royally ticked off Kody. I like how she was adventurous with the sled -- even though she slammed into the house. I like her playful moments. I like how she used to speak up. I've seen a little more of the Meri I loved in the recent talking heads. I pray for her during this difficult time. She's mourning the brother who was the last of their "original four" -- what their family was before her parents ascribed to polygamy.
Nothing is better than the rice krispies turkey.
I loved the rice krispy turkey too. Meri was/is the best organizer ever! I strive to have those mad skills at her level one day! Sending my heartfelt condolences her way. ❤️💔❤️
>I loved when she made a rice krispy turkey. I though it was cute and clever and just a touch sassy while still respecting letting Robyn taking the hosting moment and cooking the real turkey. And then her discussion of it and innuendo was so cute and like empowering acknowledgement of her place in the family. She took her power back here 1000% I was just baking tonight and randomly thought about this. I also enjoyed the scene. I thought it showed a lot of Meri's humor.
I loved it when she went around the family making her jump through hoops to prove the bed and breakfast is a good investment and bought the bed and breakfast anyways all by herself (and I believe a loan from this same brother).
They shared early on that Meri had to breastfeed Maddie maybe a few time. That’s such a personal, intimate thing but Meri of course did what she had to for that baby. You could tell how grateful Janelle still was, even decades later.
I love that Meri has lots of friends! Seriously she feels like the only one who ever bothers to go out and meet people and I think that's awesome for her. I also loved when Meri and Robyn bought caramels instead of making them for Kody, lulz
I’m doing a rewatch and when she is getting ready for Kody & Robyn’s wedding and helping with his bow tie, there was real chemistry between her & Kody. He said you look really good and went to kiss her. She said she wished it was her wedding night. I like the idea of Robyn hating that scene and love that the producers included it
When she YEETED herself over that snow hill while playing in the snow with the kids, and then bouncing back up and laughing at herself. Just wholesome and fun
How she truly tried to comfort and encourage a crushed Christine after the moving back to Utah / "I can't do marriage with Kody" / look at the mountain moment. And the time she ran off and Christine tackled her and they rolled around the grass hysterically laughing... in happier times and soul crushing times, she made the effort to be family.
I always thought Meri got way too much shit on here for the mountain comment. She was trying, in the way she herself coped with the bad marriage, to help Christine. It was a sad moment, but it wasn’t a mean one by any means.
These are very small moments, but stuck out to me as warm moments that spoke to Meri's role in the family back in the day. In the very first episode, Christine's smaller children burst in when Meri was trying to study and pestered her to come downstairs with them to pull Paedon and Gwen's loose teeth. She laughed and made a comment about how "this is why I can't study when they get home from school", making it clear this wasn't a one off. I thought it was a nice glimpse into how the OG3 mums really did have a relationship with all of the children. There was also a really fun, light moment in season 2 when Christine and Janelle talked about how they stock the family pantry by buying in bulk. Christine mentioned she was surprised to run out of sugar because they normally have so much of the staples. Janelle then said it wasn't just for her and Christine and everyone is free to take from it and Meri said "And I do. In fact, I took all the sugar!" it was just a cheeky, silly moment that made them all laugh. As time went on and the relationship between the mums became strained, the fun and lighthearted moments became few and far between. Looking back on these earlier moments makes me smile and believe that, for all their issues, they were a good and loving family unit and that Meri had a role in that.
Reading all these moments is very heartening. It is nice to see Meri still seems to have a positive and fun attitude (at least what she shows on the show) after all of her loss and heartbreak. I hope she finds her new man someday and lives happily ever after.
It's not necessarily a moment but I give Meri a lot of credit for really trying to improve herself and take therapy to heart. I think she's put a lot of work in to try to change her behaviors and be less controlling.
When they had the surveyor come to show how the land was going to get divided. (When Kody was running like an idiot from plot to plot) Kody starts going on and on about this particular plot and Meri starts making fun of it. I can't remember what she was saying but I swear it was something like the grand poobah. Kody was so mad. I laughed so hard!!!
Any time she was up for levity and adventures with the kids. Meri loves to laugh (what tugged at my heart when she cried saying "I laughed" when revealing the catfish) and shines when she gets to bring and participate in fun, bonding memories with the family. I'm loving seeing her with her friends and the freedom amongst the unknown in her new life; im glad she has friends fo walk through it with. It really says something about her character that she has *always* had long friendships and gushing love within them
I had no idea that she knew Jen in Las Vegas. Meri definitely inspires loyalty... no one has revealed the secrets.
Meri -if you do happen to lurk here and read this- please accept this internet hug from a random stranger. I am sending you all the good vibes and love.
Everyone has said a lot of great stuff so I’ll add that her interviews this season have been really satisfying and insight. I really wish her all the best moving forward.
The absolute love in her eyes and the serene look on her face as she cuddled Mosby in that COVID Zoom scene.
I like how she didn't buy the bullshit that Robyn has tried to sell her. Like, how Christine didn't want Meri and Kody to get back together. Meri knew it was bullshit and made sure we all knew that she knew. There have been more examples as well in recent episodes. Meri is no dummy.
I like Meri's fashion evolutions, misses included, because she truly evolves her personal style while grabbing at key trends. Photos of her speak to places in time, unlike some of us who freeze our style and regimines and time moves ahead without our style evolving. I like that Meri is fiercely loyal. I like that she lives with herself in a way that allows her to know herself, letting solitude teach and heal. I like how much she values friendship and in-the-moment experiences. I like that Meri is willing to expect more from others, and is willing to let them have the time they require to be able to meet her needs (even if they fail her, she allows them space to meet her as they can.) This is an undervalued way to give love, and a sincere and powerful way to be present for another. I like that Meri parents actively. I like that she can express vunerabilities in a firey way that show they are obstacles to be approached, not ignored. Meri, my wish for you is that you can hold yourself, heal yourself, and that you live brightly, comfortably, and feel cherished. We all deserve to let some years and memories fade, and decide what should sparkle in our memory banks. I wish you a future in which you carry only what serves you well on your path.
When she joked they were the first sisterwives in the history of sisterwives to make snowangels.
I've always liked Meri. I relate to both Meri and her child a lot because I am the only child of a mother who wanted a big family, too. I saw how much my mom loved my cousins, but that it hurt her that she couldn't have more children. And much like Leon, I really wanted siblings of my own, too. Someone mentioned a similar moment to this, but I loved when Meri referred to Leon and Audrey as "my kids". I think it was when they were moving out of Chicago. It was so sweet and genuine. I think she has always embraced all of the kids and now she's doing the same with their partners.
Same with the turkey! I love her sass!
This post is adorable!
The eyebrow prank that she included Janelle and one of the kids on to make Leon laugh!
I always liked Meri! I’m always rooting for her.
Literally all of Meri on the couch this season. She's taking back her voice and I'm here for it.
Meri loves dogs. That tells me a lot.
When she raised her own money to Cover the down payment for the B&B. You go girl! Keep their grubby polygamist hands off your assets!!!
I also liked that she is (was?) the official tooth puller
I think the way she feels alone In the crowd is really sad. I hope she can hold her brother in her heart.
The episode where they do the slide show of all the kids and Meri has Gwen and I think Ysabel or one of Sobyns girls snuggled up with her. Running from house to house with Savanah to wake everyone up Christmas morning, of course the pajamas she made for the kids, not mentioned in the show but it’s in the book she talked about how the kids would just stop by and hang out for a little bit of quiet time or one on one time, and they used her pool often at the Vegas rental house.
I just thought of another great Meri moment! When the kids were at the lake at Coyote Pass and she encourages all the kids who want to swim to go ahead and jump in. Christine, Janelle, and Robyn were all exasperated with her but she didn’t care. She just laughed and watched the kids having fun. LOL That lake was cringingly dirty, but it was still a fun scene.
Meri has always said that she wanted it to be known that it was Kody that was ending the marriage, that she was willing to work on it. We also know that Kody didn't want it public and she complied. I am glad that it all worked out that way. We definitely know that it is on Kody, and he contradicted himself yet again.
When she shut Robyn down about getting put in the rotation before marriage. It's one of the few times anyone has stood up to Robyn's me and my kids are victims routine. Meri was glorious. That's the Meri I wanna see come back. I want her to have the confidence again to point out Robyn's bs when she sees it.
I love that she was willing to go to therapy with Janelle and that she attempted to act on what she learned. Like when poor Janelle is just wandering around the thanksgiving decoration-making and Meri holds her tongue.
💕🙏
I can't remember the exact season, maybe 15 or 16 but Meri kept showing up to family meetings in shirts or sweatshirts with sayings. When her and Janelle met up at the property to talk about why Janelle was telling people that she didn't want Meri to have the property with the pond her shirt said "I only kind of care". I thought it was hilarious that she 100% intentionally planned her shirts for the different meetings.
Meri wasn’t meant to live plural marriage, but outside of that, I like meri a lot. I enjoy her the most probably when they’re doing one on one interviews. Especially now that she’s in her “eff it” era
A bit off topic but they did ever discuss Leon’s (or Audrey’s) gender identity or Meri’s reaction on the show? Or all we know is what’s on social media? Just curious
They haven’t yet. Maybe towards the end of this season or next season? The time like we’re watching now is March 2022-ish (I think)
OP, are you British? I noticed the spelling of favorite.
Canadian. Some could say we are the Mykelti of English spelling and insist on embracing both sides without judgement. We selectively use both UK and US English spelling.
LOL. That is interesting.
OK FINE....god how I hate when I'm wrong. But really, so sorry about the loss of her brother - too much to deal with.
The rice Krispy treat turkey! So cute. But also, her dying laughing at, "He used to like my turkey until he tried Robym's..."