‘7 Little Johnstons’: Liz SHEDS LIGHT On Anna Relationship & Life w/ Leighton

Honestly, hearing you say “Season 15” just blows my mind! We always say we filmed Season 10A, but when you put it in that perspective—wow, it’s crazy. Comparing this season to last, so much has changed. My little one is now almost a year and a half old—she’s so close to walking and talking! She’s even eating the same food as us now, no more formula. It’s been a season of big transitions, but overall, it’s been a positive and exciting journey.

That’s so great to hear! It’s wild because on the show, she’s still so tiny, but on Instagram, she looks so grown-up. You said she’s almost walking—what does that look like?

It’s the cutest thing! I always compare it to how a penguin walks—tiny, fast steps. She’s gaining confidence every day. At my parents’ house, their living room setup has a love seat, recliners, and a couch, so she just follows that path like an obstacle course. Sometimes, she’ll surprise us and take steps on her own when we least expect it—of course, that’s when no one has their phones out to record! We’ve all started making bets, and I think by mid to late February, she’ll be walking full-time.

That’s exciting! Now, do we have a full-time talker yet?

Oh yes! She’s saying “Mama,” “Dada,” and even “Emma” (though it sounds like “Nma”). She also loves our cats, so she says “kitty,” and “ball” was another early word. She points, waves, and even says “hey” and “bye.” Her dad taught her how to wave—it’s adorable!

Which word came first?

I have to give credit to Bryce—her first word was “Dada.” She started saying it around 10 and a half or 11 months. At first, it was just “Da,” and then one day, it became “Dada,” and I was like, “Well, I guess that’s it!”

Is she a daddy’s girl?

Oh, 100%! Bryce is totally wrapped around her little finger. The moment he gets home from work, she wants to see him (besides me, of course). He’s already planning to spoil her rotten, and he always tells me, “Once we have our own place, just wait—you might not like it, but I have to buy her gifts. I’ll never be the strict parent, that’s your job!” So, I guess I get to be the bad guy while he plays Prince Charming!

That dynamic happens a lot! As she grows, do you notice any personality traits or features that are just like you or Bryce?

Yes! Some of her facial expressions are identical to Bryce’s. When he’s holding her, they’ll both have the same straight-faced expression—it’s uncanny. She also smiles like him, but she has my cheeks and dimples. So, she got all of Bryce’s facial features, and somehow, I got stuck with just the cheeks!

Personality-wise, she’s incredibly gentle, which surprises me. People say that will change once she’s walking, but right now, she’s so soft and careful with everything. She’s not a toy person—she prefers books. She’ll sit and flip through pages, and she’s never rough or throws things. It’s like she has a natural sense of etiquette!

That’s so sweet! The show captures so many beautiful moments, but also the challenges of being a new parent. What has been the hardest part over the past 14 months?

It’s so hard watching your baby get sick. When Leighton started daycare, she got really sick with fevers and barely ate. You could see in her face that she just didn’t feel good, and it broke my heart. I had to work, but I was constantly worrying about her.

Another tough time was when she had reflux as a newborn. For three weeks, the only way she could sleep was on my chest while I sat in a recliner. I lost so much sleep—I swear I aged 10 years! The exhaustion and sick days are no joke.

You’re living with family—how has that experience been with everyone helping raise Leighton?

It’s been a blessing! Bryce’s parents live just three houses away, so we have plenty of babysitters. Watching our siblings grow into their roles as aunts and uncles has been amazing. Of course, parenting styles can differ, so I’ve butted heads with my parents a few times, but they’re understanding. Bryce and I always remind them how much we appreciate their help.

How is your relationship with Bryce at this stage?

Honestly, it’s been more fun than ever! Now that Leighton is more interactive—mimicking us, playing, exploring—it’s added a new dynamic. We’ve definitely grown stronger as a couple, and she’s made us better people.

Last time, you mentioned hoping to buy or build a home by Leighton’s second birthday. Any updates?

That’s still the goal! You’ll have to tune in this season to see where Bryce and I stand with that dream.

I remember you also mentioned wanting to give Leighton a sibling someday. Is that still in the plans?

Yes! I finally convinced Bryce. At first, he wanted to wait a while, but now he’s agreed that once Leighton is more independent—around two and a half or three—we’ll try for another. He wants to stop at two, and I’m totally fine with that!

What else can fans expect this season besides your parenting journey?

There’s a lot of growth in our family! You’ll see Emma and Alex’s journey, my brothers’ relationships, and, of course, Leighton’s transformation. There will also be more insight into my relationship with my older sister, Anna.

A lot of people are curious about that. What can you share?

I know there’s been a lot of talk about it, but just like any family, we have our ups and downs. Every family has its share of drama, and ours is no different. I hope this season helps people understand our situation and maybe even relate to it. We’re all hoping for a light at the end of the tunnel.

Where do you and Anna stand right now?

We’re still sisters—that’s all I can say for now.

Another big storyline this season is your dad’s health. What more can we expect to see?

You’ll learn more about how severe his sleep apnea is and how he’s managing it. It’s been a big adjustment for him, and we’re all supporting him through it.