'Here Comes Honey Boo Boo' special dates announced

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water...

TLC is hoping that you have not had your fill of Honey Boo Boo Child yet (Barbara Walters certainly has not, naming her one of the most fascinating people of 2012). The network announced today the premiere dates for the pint size star's holiday specials.

The 'Here Comes Honey Boo Boo' Halloween special will arrive just in time, when it premieres January 6 (what?). The following weekend you will be able to see how the Thompson family gets down for Thanksgiving. Both of those episodes air at 9 p.m.

One short month later, on February 10, the network will air unseen footage, leading into the Christmas special on February 17. I understand they need turnaround time, but almost two months seems a bit excessive. 

The series has become the second-most-watched launch of 2012 for TLC and its third-most-watched series, behind 'Long Island Medium' and 'Breaking Amish.' What a murderer's row, huh?

The premiere date for the second season has not been announced yet - it is coming though. How many seasons do you think TLC can milk this thing for? Do you think the interest is dying down or just getting started?