Birthday Blessings & Papa's Day!

Today is a HUGE celebration in the Barlow Bunch...my 31st birthday & Papa's Day! As I woke up very early to Nolan's cries, Peyton's fast feet running down the hall, & to my husband being the first to say, "Happy Birthday," my heart was so full of happiness & fulfillment.  

I try to be transparent in this blog, so I hope you know that we do not live a perfect life - we struggle with parenting, finances, jobs, weight/health, temper tantrums, family living hours away...but, this morning I feel my life is close to perfect...wow - how I am blessed.  My husband is a wonderful father - he gives 110% everyday.  Jonathan gets the boys ready every morning & takes them to the sitter.  If we are honest, Jonathan is the disciplinarian in this household.   He plays ball with the boys, changes dirty diapers, cooks for us (on Thursdays!), reads to them, bathes them (although he doesn't love it), & models the example of a Christian man.  I am grateful to Jonathan for my boys, my blessings.  What a wonderful gift it is to share this day with him.  Thank you, Jonathan, for living life with me!

Jonathan & Nolan preparing to leave the hospital  August 2012

Nolan's first Sunday to church  September 2012 

Halloween 2012 - Carving a pumpkin with Peyton 

Jonathan's 30th birthday  November 2012 

Nolan & Papa  Easter 2013 

Peyton's first baseball game, Papa's Father's Day gift June 2013 

Father's Day & My 31st Birthday!   6-16-13

Isn't life good?  Thank you, God for family, friends, & celebrations!

Our Days in Destin!

To kick off my summer break, Auntie Anna came for a visit! We had a much-needed, relaxing visit!  We took the boys to the park, ran every morning, ate at our favorite local restaurant, & she even helped us move Peyton into his BIG BOY BED! (unfortunately - I can't find the sweet pictures with Auntie Anna on the computer).  Here's a cute one while getting clean -

Here we are having fun in the tub! 

 On May 26th, Jonathan & I celebrated six years of marriage, Auntie Anna went home, & we traveled to Destin, FL to enjoy time with Nana & Papa Rusty Barlow & the beach.  We loved - jumping the waves in the ocean, swimming in the pool, eating delicious seafood, shopping at the outlets, watching sunsets, long walks on the beach, & most importantly spending time with family.  I told Jonathan, I couldn't be more happy than with my boys AND being at the beach!!!  The pictures can say more -

Peyton loving the backyard water table 

A quick visit with Aunt Amanda & Hayes

Harbor Walk 

Peyton & Papa Rusty loving the boats! 

Our TEN month old with Nana & Papa

Celebrating six years of marriage! 

Peyton LOVING the ocean! 

Nolan wasn't so sure about the cold water!  He loved being held! 

Loving time with Nana & Papa Rusty! 

It was a much-needed vacation for ALL of us.  We loved every minute of it, sad to return, but so thankful for the time away.  

Hard moments as a Mama & My Mother's Day

Mothering can be hard at times - 2-year old tantrums, middle of the night feedings, potty-trained pee-pee accidents, dinners where we all end in tears due to our 2-year old not eating, our 9-month old up at all hours due to teething...the list can continue...can't it? And, I have only begun mothering...

Then, there are moments that make is ALL worth it - hugs & kisses, moments where Peyton says a new word, Nolan's toothy grin, moments Jonathan & I get to see their firsts, bath time, waking up to hair sticking in all directions, laughter, excitement of watching Mickey Mouse...I could continue... doesn't your list go on & on...

This past Sunday was a special Mother's Day for me, as I am sure it was for most of you.  Jonathan & the boys painted a beautiful picture for me (that might stay hung until next year), got my favorite breakfast at McDonald's, cooked vegetables for lunch, & allowed me to take a long afternoon nap! It was a day I was reminded the JOY of motherhood & the BLESSINGS of motherhood.

My Mother's Day! 

Here are a few pictures of Nolan's 9 month pictures (that I never posted)!

Nolan 9 months April 30, 2013 

Nolan looking out the window! 

And pulling his curtains! 

NINE months of NOLAN!

The nine month mark has been monumental for both Peyton & Nolan.  I seem to reflect on my nine months of pregnancy when both boys approached their nine month birthday's, knowing that the boys were in my tummy as long as on this earth.  This month has been full of - trips to Georgetown, a day in Greenville, weeks with Papa away & Mama being a single parent, visits from Grandmama, Grandaddy & Auntie Anna, enjoying yogurt & puffs (along with my milk, vegetables, & fruit)....whew...what a month!

Ella Gregory & Nolan playing in KY 

Grandaddy, Cousin Carter, Big Brother Peyton, & Nolan

Swinging at the park 

Greenville Airport with the Hollands! 

What a special month it has been with our boy!!!

Accidents, Miracles, & Facing Death

Today is bittersweet - seven years ago, my sister, Anna Fraley Yuhas, was hit my a train & suffered a traumatic brain injury.  It is today, on April 21st, that my family will forever be reminded of God's goodness, grace, & healing power.  I believe Anna truly experienced God's power to heal, as for 72 hours we did not know if she was going to live...all the odds were against her.  Anna went through extensive therapy after her accident, but is a walking miracle.
On July 30th, a few hours after Nolan was born we learned of his testicular mass, a 95% chance of the mass being malignant, & Jonathan & I prepared to meet with an oncology team after his surgery.  Again, Jonathan & I experienced God's goodness, grace, & healing power.  Most of you know the ending of Nolan's story...he is cancer free! Below is one of my favorite pictures of Anna holding Nolan for the first time, at only 3 days old & before his surgery (not knowing the result).  I truly believe angels are alive & present in our lives.  I truly believe in miracles.
Today, we had an amazing church service.  Children were given Bibles, a sweet baby boy was dedicated, & Jonathan preached on, You Shall Not Perish.  As Christians, we are not to fear death, but instead, celebrate eternal life.  May God be present in Boston.  May God be present in West, Texas.  May God give His healing power to all those lives in the hospital suffering injuries.

Anna & Nolan - my earthly angels 

In the midst of sadness & tragedy this past week, I am so thankful for the GOOD in my life.  Last weekend, we celebrated my Mom's BIG 6-0 birthday & Carter's 2nd birthday in Kentucky.

Celebrating Mom's birthday in Georgia 

Nancy threw a lovely horse-themed party for Carter.  We loved getting to celebrate with him.

Posing with Auntie Anna & Grandmama before the party begins 

I think the boys loved the cupcakes! 

The choir sang, I Will Rise today in choir.  What a perfect song in the midst of tragedy this week, & I personally was reflecting on Anna's life.  It is one of my favorites - 

And I will rise when He calls my name

No more sorrow, No more pain

I will rise on eagles wings

Before my God fall on my knees, & Rise! 

A Blessed & Bittersweet Easter Holiday

How was your Easter? Were you able to celebrate with family?  Our holiday weekend began with some big news concerning my career - I am being moved  to a different school in the county teaching 4th grade for the 2013-2014 school year.  Our county is going through a reconstruction, & due to many changes, I also am changing.  I am not sure I can handle a 3rd school in a 3rd grade within 2 years.  God is going to have to provide me with daily strength as I face this upcoming challenge.  God is going to have to give me peace about this change.  I am having to remind myself we serve a good God who cares.
So, this is how the weekend began....
After much talking & tears, I decided I must enjoy these precious moments with my boys & extended family.  I cannot dwell on my sadness & anticipation of what's ahead.  My in-laws came in from Florida, & we enjoyed every minute! We played at the park, went shopping, cooked a big Easter dinner, dyed Easter eggs, had an egg hunt (without candy, & Peyton still loved it...haha!), & watched basketball!  We loved every minute.  I don't think we could've squeezed anything else into the short weekend! :)

Nana & Peyton dying eggs! 

Egg Hunt with new best friend, Rex

Seeing his Easter basket! 

Nolan loved the Easter grass! 

Easter Sunday! Papa Gerald, Jonathan & Nolan, Me & Peyton, Nana, Papa Rusty 

Four Generations of Barlow Boys! 

I hope your Easter was blessed with happy memories.  May the Living God give you hope & joy!

Cute Sayings, Boatman's visit, & Throw-Up...

Kids say the cutest things, don't they?  I try to write in a one-sentence journal on a daily basis, & want to remember this one -
Grandmama got Peyton a book, God Gave Us Easter, & we are reading it nightly (because he loves it!).  Peyton is learning about the true meaning of Easter.  Last night, I was singing "Jesus loves me"to Nolan & Peyton spoke up & said, "Jesus died."  I couldn't help but start laughing, & finally managed to respond to Peyton.
This past weekend, the stomach bug hit the Barlow home, along with the Boatman's visiting from Kentucky (yes - in the midst of sickness).  My poor husband - Jonathan cleaned up so much throw-up between Peyton & me.  His sermon topic was on humility, & he truly experienced it over the weekend!
We watched a lot of basketball & Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.  Peyton & I managed to improve enough to take the boys to the park -

Nancy & Carter, Nolan, Peyton, & Me

Special memories even in the midst of sickness...

Nolan growing & cherished friendships!

Our March has begun with a bang! Nolan turned 7 months!!!  Nolan loves sweet potatoes & pears.  He is sitting up, but not begun to crawl.  He has travelled well the past two trips, so I'm hoping his hate toward the carseat is over.  Now, he is our HAPPY baby - always smiling & laid-back!

Nolan 7 months 

Nolan's best buddy is Braz Adams, who is only 3 weeks older.  It has been so much fun watching these boys grow.  We try to have play dates when we can, so for his seven month birthday, Braz happened to come for a visit!  Aren't the boys adorable? 

Nolan & Braz - 3 weeks apart! 

Shellei & Braz, Nolan & me

This weekend, we went to visit the Sextons in North Carolina.  We had a blast - playing & sharing meals together.  Noah & Eliza Sexton are both about 6 months older than my children - perfect playmates.  Beth & I got to catch up & have many long conversations, a much-needed weekend after a rough work week.  Here are some highlights - 

This picture cracks me up of the boys - Peyton & Noah! They loved riding Noah's motorcycle together! 

Peyton & Noah riding a motorcycle 

Nolan & Eliza relaxing at the park! 

Beth & me

Jonathan & I have been so blessed with life-long friends.  I cherish my time away from the "to-do" list, & a chance to catch up with dear friends.  This weekend was just what I needed for the week ahead!  Thank you Sextons for a wonderful weekend!

The whole gang! 

Winter Break!

You might be asking, "Winter Break?" YES - Franklin County has a week-long winter break, & I loved the much needed break.  I loved every minute with my boys!  I did go to school, meet with friends, go to doctor's appointments, & take a trip to Mississippi.  

The week started off with my Mom & sister, Anna, visiting! They came to meet my 5th graders & bring the boys.  The class loved Peyton & Nolan! We ate at our favorite - 211 restaurant, cheer on Jonathan in a race, shop with Anna, & enjoy time relaxing at home.   

Cheering on Jonathan at his race!

Jonathan was 1st in his age division & 2nd overall! 

It is always special to get to worship with our families when they come to visit.  Auntie Anna wanted a picture with the boys - we took about 10 & got 1 good one - it's almost impossible with both boys!!!

Auntie Anna & the boys before church! 

Grandmama & boys

I was determined to put down my "to-do" list on Wednesday & PLAY all day with Peyton & Nolan (& even nap when they napped)! Peyton & I painted, watched a Mickey Mouse (his favorite at the moment), put together puzzles, played with trucks, trains, planes, & cars (he loves anything that moves), & read many books. 

Our artist - Peyton painting

We ended the winter break by traveling to Brandon, Mississippi to celebrate our nephew, Hayes, 2nd birthday! The boys did wonderful in the car - thank goodness (Nolan's best trip yet!).  They LOVED their "cousin time" with Lele & Hayes.  You even see Nolan wishing he could run around with them.   It was so much fun to watch the cousins play, laugh, & even have trouble sharing at times...all valuable learning experiences.  We had the best time - Amanda & Seth made a delicious lunch & dinner for us, along with a fun "car-themed" birthday party.  Needless to say - both boys took long naps on the way home.  

Playing with Hayes in Mississippi 

The boys loved playing with the balloons! 

Loved time with Amanda! 

It was back to work Monday morning, but sweet, sweet memories from my break!