The Story of the Barnes Boys written by a Girl

15 Months

2012-02-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

Nolen William Barnes was born 15 months ago! He is outgoing, energetic, silly, wild, funny, crazy, adventurous, calm, passive, attentive, lovable, and kind. I often joke to my friends that my boys are extreme opposites. This seems to become more true every day. Nolen has patience, compassion, and hardly cries. Is he really mine?
Nolen slept through the entire night last night for the first time in... well... a year! It was a miracle! He still has some tummy issues but we are working to figure out what causes all the gas and pain so that he can rest (and so I can rest).
Nolen can almost say "ball" and says "mamma". He can climb up on the couch and loves to play in dangerous places. He follows Edward example and tries to do everything his older brother does. He loves to sit on my lap and watch baby Einstein for hours. He is so attentive. He hardly ever puts up a fight, he just goes with the flow. He loves car rides and will often fall asleep if we are in the car for more than 20 minutes. Nolen can ride his little ride on car and drive his Thomas the Train. He is so smart. He smiles and giggles and loves to laugh. He is so sweet and very understanding of his older brothers needs. Nolen is curious and hardly stays on the same task for long. He is a picky eater and will spit something out if he doesn't like it. Nolen does not like to hold my hand. He wants to walk all by himself just like Edward. Nolen only gets upset if I take him away from something that he loves, like walking up and down the ramp at the gym or just walking all by himself. He loves to be outside. It has been too cold lately to spend a long time outside but we still try.

I love my sweet little Nolen. He is a true joy to be around and he was meant to be in our family. He is wonderful. He charms everyone he meets and is the life of the party. I am so grateful to have him be a part of my life. I am filled with love each morning I pull him out of his crib (at 5 AM no less). I think these pictures tell the true story of sweet little Nolen Barnes.

Ba Ba Ball!

2012-02-12T14:42:00.005-07:00

Turning 3....

2012-02-12T14:05:00.001-07:00

It is hard to believe that Edward will be three in exactly ONE week. It seems like he has always been by my side tugging at my skirt; however, at the same time it feels like he just joined our family. For those that live in Albuquerque, we are having a little birthday party for him at our home next Saturday from 11:00 to 2:00.

I have been really busy singing lately and I feel like I have not blogged about how cute my boys are and have been. They are really getting in to more big boy activities now that Nolen can walk and run. Here are a few pictures from the last few weeks.

stumbled across this jem....

2012-02-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

and it reminded me of these....

Videos and a few laughs

2012-01-30T08:31:00.002-07:00

Stephen Reading to Edward

Julie Reading to Nolen

Trying to get Nolen to say "Truck". I think he says it at the end...

Boys being boys

Grandmother

2012-01-29T10:28:00.001-07:00

I was blessed to grow up with wonderful women in my life. My Mother's Mom, Erna, was a strong woman. I remember how tall was and how she used to have to stick herself with a needle daily for her diabetes shot. She was always busy with a caring heart. She had short white straight hair and she was quick to discipline me when I was sassy. I was sassy a lot. She lived in the same town that I grew up in, Maricopa, so I saw her often. She lived right across the street from the school and I would sometimes try to walk home, only to make it to her house. She would call my Mom and then scold me about not riding the bus. She died at a young age, in her early 70's, of breast cancer. I was still young when she passed but I remember the feeling of walking in to her home as she laid on the borrowed hospital bed dying. I remember saying good-bye.
My Father's Mom, Elizabeth, was another hard, strong woman. She bore 11 children and if you saw her you would never guess. She was tiny. She was always in the kitchen cooking. She would sit with us at breakfast to talk and ask us tons of questions about our lives and our horses. She was genuinely interested in what we had to say. She would even play games with us. She had a big heart and loved each and every one of her children and grandchildren. She lived on a farm that now seems like it is in the middle of Chandler, but back then it was WAY out of town. Her house was always clean and there seemed to be a never ending amount of toys available for us grandchildren to play with. She loved to get together with family. We always had family get together's and she would be right in the center of all the chaos. She passed in her 80's from pancreatic cancer. I spent a weekend with her before she died. She spent her last few weeks listening to old general conference talks with her husband. They were truly in love as he said he would only live 6 months so that he could join her in the hereafter. He died 6 months later, some say of a broken heart.
True love is something that seems to be disappearing. We grow more selfish. We think, me, me, me instead of "how can I help better the world?" It is interesting to see the difference in generations now. It is so easy to get a divorce and find someone else who fits our needs for the moment. A true love story that I carry with me through my trials comes from my Grandmother.
She was my Great Grandma, mother to my Mom's Mom. We called her Grandmother. She was inspirational. She lived to be 100. She married young and had three beautiful daughters. At the age of 29, her husband, Ben, was taken from her in a mining accident in southern Arizona. I used to ask her how old she was and she would reply, "29". I just thought she was being funny but I realize now, she wasn't embarrassed of her age, she simply wanted to be 29 forever because that is how old she was when the love of her life died. She never remarried. She had many men who wanted to marry her. One man even bought her a plot next to his with her last name as his so he could spend his days in the dirt with her. She raised her three daughters on her own working any odd job she could find. I knew her when she was a very old woman. She was petite and still strong willed with a true fire for life. She lived alone, across the yard from my grandparents. She called the couch a "sit-t" and used funny words for breakfast, lunch, and "supper". She lived in the room next to mine after she had fallen when she was in her late 90's. I remember thinking she would die any time. She didn't. She lived with us for years. She had the greatest stories. Her hands would shake as she worked on her genealogy, but she could still walk, talk, and yell if we were being too loud.
I will always remember her smile. She loved. She had an enormous heart. She cared so much for me. I remember her giving me things before she passed. Words of wisdom. She was someone to truly emulate. I never heard her complain or talk ill of other people. She is a true inspiration for me. In times of trials or sadness I think of her example for me. She was so strong in the church. She was a blessing in my life. She died when I was a sophomore in high school. She was 100. I remember looking at her when her spirit had left and she looked completely different. It was just a body left behind. Her spirit was her. Her spirit just used her body to live in this world and it left behind a wonderful body that did not fail her in her times of need. She died with all of her teeth, I just think that is amazing. She is a true example of selflessness, to me. She was meant to live long enough to teach me to be a woman with grace, poise, and laughter.

I would, someday, like to live as the women have lived. They may not go down in the history books and women who did miraculous things for the world, but they did miraculous things for me. They were real women who didn't care what the world thought of them. They lived and died as examples of Christ. I hope to do the same.

The downs and ups...

2012-01-25T13:55:00.000-07:00

Occasionally, I will post about my real life. The real one I live when no one is looking (or reading for that matter). Does real have to mean "bad"? Does real have to mean terrible? Not necessarily, but for most, real means looking at the ugly side of life a little deeper.
Let me start with some amazing positives: I have an awesome family. My husband is sweet. My boys are wild and funny. My parents truly love me and do not want to ever see me suffer. My singing has really taken off in the last year and I have been granted some great opportunities. I am in good health.

Now to the real reason for this post. Remember last August when I wrote this? I was so relieved. I thought we could only go up. WRONG! Since the sale of my home we have only gone deeper in to debt and last week I learned that I may be responsible for paying taxes on an income of $108,000! Yes, as if I walked away with that cash in my hand. HA! At this point it would have been better to foreclose on my home rather than short sale because the Federal government looks at it like I made money. HA, I say, HA!

Fine. I will continue to face my trials; however financially devastating they may be. Are you wondering what the taxes are on an income of $108,000? $25,000. Yes Twenty-five Grand!

Anyhow, it isn't certain that I will have to pay that, as there are some laws in place to protect people like myself; however, I am still nervous to take my year end summary to the tax man.
Last week we also received a notice saying that Stephen's $100,000 helicopter school loan will be due in June. We knew this day was coming. It also said we had ONE week to talk to a loan specialist about reducing the amount owed. Stephen called the next morning and heard that we need to come up with $17,662 by the end of the week and the whole loan will be forgiven and forgotten! I count that as good news; yet stressful. Now we just have to convince a bank to loan us a large amount of money for something they can not see or ever take back. Education.
After all is said and done, trials are still scary not matter what shape or form they may take on. I can say that I knew a huge trial was coming and I just prayed that it would be something we could handle. It is. I believe my Heavenly Father knows me well. He does know what I can handle and he places it right in my path.

A few of my favorite things...

2012-01-16T22:02:00.000-07:00

Have you found amazing products or services that have changed your life? Once you found these amazing things, did you want to scream it from every roof top?

I totally understand why Oprah does her "favorite" things show (or did, I realize her show is off the air). There are so many products out there, how do you weed through the good and bad to find the best? I have found a few things that I can not live with out. The products have changed my life.

1) The Book of Mormon

Read it. It will change your life. You will feel something powerful, something real, something that will change your perspective. It will move you. It will change you.

2) DoTerra Essential Oils

I know this sounds random after reading my number one, but really, these oils have changed my life. I now have clear skin. More than one person has told me, "Your skin is amazing! You have great genes." I almost nearly died from shock and laughter. I have TERRIBLE skin. Frankincense has changed that for me. People ask me my secret. THERE IS NO SECRET, everyone can have amazing skin. Use the oil!

I am smaller than I was 12 years ago. TWELVE years ago, (I was 18 for those of you who didn't do the math) I wasn't even this small! What is my secret? The oil!! Can I yell this loud enough so that you will try it? Yes, I work hard at the gym; however, I have worked really hard for the past 8 years to lose weight and it is finally coming off when I am 30!? I thought I was supposed to gain 5 extra pounds when I turned 30 because my metabolism slowed down. Not true, by the way, just try the oil.

3) Bra's

Weird, I know. I used to only buy Victoria Secret bra's because they were supposedly the best. Guess what? Their not. There the worst. They are expensive and they don't actually do their job. They don't flatter a woman unless that woman is 100 pounds with fake boobs. Stop buying their bra's just because of the name. They look terrible. I found a new boutique that actually really cares about what you look like with your clothes ON! Isn't that the point of a bra? To help you look better and maximize your natural assets? SOMA! There aren not 20 somethings walking around weighing 110 pounds telling you to purchase this bra or that bra because they are the new "it" thing. There ARE; however, women (real women) who understand a woman's body at Soma who want to help you find the best bra for your body type. I tried on about 20 bra's before finding the right one that actually flatters my body. Strangers have asked me what my secret is for not having any back lines because of my bra... ugh, it's call the "Vanishing Back" bra by Soma. It is supportive, it will make you look good, and it looks good while doing it.

ENELL sports bra's. Stop buying cheap sports bra's from k-mart just because you think they are all the same. They are not. ENELL is the BEST! No bounce and no funny business. It does it's job, period. No, it is not meant to make you look sexy while you are at the gym trying to work out, if you go to the gym to pick up a man, sorry, this bra is not for you. This sports bra is for the serious person who really wants to loose weight and not worry about any extra bouncing.

These are three of my favorite things. Try them and find out for yourself.

Laughter

2012-01-09T14:32:00.001-07:00

Nolen rarely laughs. He loves to smile; however, it is tough to get a big laugh out of him. I was surprised to hear a huge belly laugh when I was playing with him the other day, I had to capture it on camera. I can't believe he is One! We just love him so much!

Morning Devotional

2012-01-04T07:51:00.002-07:00

The past few years I have done morning devotional; however, I haven't been consistent. This year I plan to have morning devotional with the boys everyday at breakfast. This morning, I asked Edward where our Heavenly Father lives. He replied without hesitation, "the moon!"

Want $10 Dollars?

2012-01-02T15:15:00.001-07:00

I have 13 $10 dollar shopping cards to plumdistrict.com If you are interested write a comment with your email address and I will send you the offer code. I only have 13, so the first to respond will get them.

Camelot

2012-01-02T10:13:00.000-07:00

What an amazing experience! I loved playing Nimue in Camelot and will truly miss the cast and crew. This was a magical show that helped me learn so much more about acting while singing. Mostly, moving while singing. I am looking forward to doing another show with the talented actors from Albuquerque.

A video or two...

2011-12-29T21:08:00.002-07:00

2012 is on its way...

2011-12-29T20:19:00.001-07:00

I figured I would post the most random pictures of our Christmas Holiday. We had an amazing time with my sister, Kendra and her husband Micheal. We really didn't do much except try and sleep then play with toys. The boys loved every minute of it.

A job opening has come up in Phoenix. Our goal was always to return to Phoenix and be near family; however, 3 1/2 years has changed my opinion of Albuquerque. I thought I would leave this place and never look back. Now I am finding it hard to leave. I haven't made a lot of friends, but the friends I have made have changed my life. They have seen me grow up. It is true what they say, Albuquerque grows on a person. I have so many opportunities here and so does Stephen. But do the boys? Should we stay just for us and not worry too much about what childhood we give the boys?

If we move back to Phoenix, will we be disappointed? Everyone and everything has changed. Will they have time for us? Will our friends and family make time for us, or will be be doing the same things we do here? I guess I am asking if it is worth it? We want to be near family but so much has changed it seems as if we are better off here. Every time we visit Phoenix, our friends say they will visit but they never do. Is that a sign of how things will be if we move back? I just don't know. What life is better? Is it better here or there?

Ultimately, I will leave this question up to the Lord. It is in his hands.

Spinning

2011-12-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

I LOVE having two boys! It is so much fun. They are the best of friends and the worst of enemies. They are so precious. Here is just a snippet of our lives.

BTW, I just got the Internet working on my computer again, so I can finally post pictures again!

Christmas!

2011-12-26T13:31:00.003-07:00

We had the most wonderful, amazing, peaceful Christmas. I feel truly blessed. I love my boys and I love my husband. We opened one present on Christmas eve along with our Christmas Jammie's. I tried to capture a family photo; however, the boys were not feelin' it.

Christmas morning, Kendra and her husband Micheal drove in after 18 hours straight from Tennessee. We let them sleep for a bit, then woke them up for opening many, many packages of cars and lots of yummy food including home made Cinnamon rolls. We made a Delicious Christmas Dinner then I took a few photos of Kendra and Micheal, then drove Micheal to the airport so he could be with his family for Christmas, THEN went and did a show for Camelot.

Just a wonderful day to remember the savior and his sacrifice for us. Edward picked about 50 of his toys to give away this year and we tried to teach the boys about the birth of our savior.

Merry Christmas to all!

Burnt

2011-12-18T07:56:00.001-07:00

Have you ever run into someone in your life who seeks to destroy your confidence? I have to admit, those type of people are usually few and far between so when I come across them it is shocking and emotionally damaging. Camelot opened on Friday and, in my opinion, was amazing. We sang well, we danced well, and overall put on a great 3 hour show. It was so much fun. I was home by midnight but was on such a high I couldn't fall asleep. Yesterday, as I was finishing putting on my nymph make-up (extremely extensive and glittery) a fellow cast mate said something about my singing that cut deep. I couldn't help cry. I was shocked, sad, and angry. This was moments before I was supposed to walk on stage and sing the same song again. There are moments in our lives that humble us. I was humbled. I can't even begin to tell you how hard I have worked on my voice. Singing is my passion, my life, and I love to share it. Isn't it interesting how one statement can kill all that hard work in a matter of seconds? I second guessed myself through out last nights performance as if I had never practiced the song. It doesn't matter what she said, however, she taught me a big lesson. "think before you speak". Yes, I usually do not say mean things to others but I sometimes don't pay attention to every word that is coming out of my mouth. I will be better. I will practice harder and I will learn to take the negative with the positive. Sometimes I forget that some people may not like me... Ha ha, as if I believe every person I come across likes me. If you live in Albuquerque, come and see the show. It is worth all 3 hours you will spend in the theater. Enjoy your Sunday and have a merry Christmas.

Standing your Ground and Tantrums

2011-12-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

A post for a page in my parenting book.

Sometimes extreme challenges arise and we can choose to stand up and face our challenges or shrink down and let them wash over us like the relentless ocean waves. I have been choosing the ocean waves with Edward for a while now because I didn't want to deal with a battle three times a day. Yeah, I talking about the food battle. I, somehow, became "that Mom" who makes three different meals at each mealtime through out the day. Was that easier than dealing with a tantrum? I told myself, yes.

Today, I had enough. I went to sleep around 1:30 AM after a long night at rehearsal and then helped spike the set. Let's just say, this wasn't the best day to pick to battle my two year. In any case, like I said, I had enough. Edward said he was hungry. I dutifully went to the kitchen and cooked him a scrambled egg. Edward promptly came to the kitchen and told me "NO EGG!" I asked him what he wanted to eat. He replied a resounding "NO" to everything I offered. I thought to myself, "I have given him so many choices, yet he chooses to be unhappy and not eat." I decided, in my sleepy state, to just put the egg on the table and tell him that was his breakfast.

Let the tantrums begin! Edward even hit me twice so he had to spend some time in time-out then apologize before he could join us back at the table. I ignored Edward for about 20 minutes while I fed Nolen and ate my own delicious breakfast. The crying continued and was followed by, "I too sad to eat." I was really about to give in, then I had an amazing idea. I stayed calm (surprising, I know) and told Nolen he could have a Popsicle for eating all of his breakfast.

Oh, the crying got louder! "I want Popsicle!" I said, calmly, "You may have a Popsicle once you eat all of your breakfast." Something changed in Edward. He jumped up on his chair and ate EVERY LAST BITE! I really wanted to force the feed Edward at this point but somehow managed to stay calm. In the end he didn't even want a Popsicle, he was just hungry.

I try to pick my battles carefully. I pick battles I know I can win but is that really fair? I am scared of losing...to a two year old! I have attempted potty training and haven't had a single success. Not one. I know we are all afraid of failure but I am pretty sure I would rather have a successful man leave my house than a sad little boy who can't use the potty nor eat anything that is prepared for him.

One small step in the right direction. We will see if lunch goes any better...

Snow day!

2011-12-05T13:59:00.001-07:00

The first snow of the season is always beautiful, then you realize this stuff is going to be coming and going quite a bit over the next few months; however, we still love to taste and touch the snow when we haven't seen it for a while. I took the boys outside to play in it but Edward didn't want to wear gloves and hat, so he went back inside almost as fast as he ran to go outside. Those that live in Arizona, be jealous... OK, don't be jealous, just come and visit us.

For your viewing pleasure, a video of Nolen playing ball. Also, as I am writing this more snow is falling, leaving us with more than 2-3 inches of snow. I even shoveled the driveway!

Christ {mas}

2011-11-30T11:46:00.001-07:00

I am having a hard time talking to Edward about Santa. I don't want to tell Edward about Santa and I don't want Christmas to turn in to a time of year when all he talks about are things he is going to receive. How can I avoid this?
My thought is to tell him now that Santa isn't real, but Jesus is real and in order to get gifts we must give something. Is this mean? Is that terrible of me to cut Santa completely out? So many people have completely cut Christ out of Christmas. I just don't want my sons to be a part of the X-MAS group. Any thoughts? What do other parents do?
I grew up with Santa and I turned out OK, but sometimes I feel like the generations that are coming up live in a society of me, ME, me. I just want to avoid that as much as possible. Anyhow, so probably no Santa here at the Barnes home.

Giving Thanks

2011-11-25T17:57:00.001-07:00

This year I am extremely grateful for Family. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by wonderful people who love me and support me no matter what silly things I say or do. My parents drove 7 hours just to spend Thanksgiving with us because I was too chicken to drive to Arizona by myself (with two boys). I am so thankful for their support, kindness, and selflessness. They are one of a kind parents who have given me more than I will ever be able to repay.

I love them so much.

Touched up...

2011-11-17T21:30:00.001-07:00

Toddler Boredom Busters

2011-11-17T14:35:00.001-07:00

Toddler Boredom Busters is having an awesome give-away! Check it out!

The party

2011-11-16T13:41:00.001-07:00

This post is mostly for the grandparents who were not able to be here for Nolen's first birthday party. We did a balloon theme, obviously, and Nolen just loved it! So enjoy the pictures and videos.

One

2011-11-15T10:58:00.001-07:00

One!

One little man celebrating his birthday today.

Nolen loves walking and chasing after his older brother.

He loves to read books and eat crayons.

He loves all baby Einstein movies especially the one with cars.

He loves playing with anything with wheels and his favorite toys is his older brothers big dump truck.

He is 29.5 inches and 24 pounds.

He will eat anything.

He has to taste everything.

He loves sweet potatoes and squash.

He especially loves yogurt bites and lil' crunchies.

He is a man of action and very little cry.

He does not sleep through the night. I fear that will never happen.

He loves water and to take a long bubble bath.

Nolen is a wonderful little man and a true blessing for our family.

We love him more and more each day.

He has added so much joy and love to our lives.

I love you, Nolen William Barnes.

Twins for a day...

2011-11-12T15:43:00.001-07:00

I love to dress my boys alike. Who would have thought it could be so fun? I used to laugh at my friends who did this... and here I am, doing the same thing. Nolen loves to follow Edward around and do everything he does. It is just so cute. I just love these boys!

F L U

2011-11-12T11:19:00.001-07:00

We missed ridding Thomas the Train today because we all have the flu. Bleh.

In other news, Nolen will be ONE on Tuesday. If you are in the neighborhood, feel free to stop by for a celebratory cupcake at 6:00 PM.

First hair cut with dancing

2011-11-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

Nolen will be ONE in 8 days! I really can't believe it has been a year. I cut his hair to help commemorate his first year of life. He actually has a little bit of curl! I am so glad I could pass that on to both my boys, ha ha ha. Also, for your view pleasure, I captured a video of Edward dancing. These boys are SO cute!

A black, black eye

2011-11-05T08:54:00.001-06:00

Two nights ago, I was getting the boys ready for bed; actually they were about 3 minutes from being in their beds asleep, when Nolen tripped on his blanket and went face first into Edwards crib. I picked him up facing away from me because I was still wrestling Edward to get his jammies on for bed. I finished getting Edward dressed before I turned Nolen around, then I saw why he was crying so hard. After realizing my misstep, I called Stephen and rinsed off Nolen's bloody face. Stephen flew home and took Nolen to the Emergency Room. The cut on Nolen's eye lid wasn't deep enough to sew or glue, so they sent him home with some ointment. Nolen is now walking around with his first black eye. Ironically, Edward tripped and fell when he was 11 months old and cut his nose.

Camelot!

2011-11-02T10:55:00.001-06:00

This Christmas, Musical Theater Southwest is putting on Camelot and I get to be a part of the wonderful and talented cast. I would love for ALL of my friends to come and see the show. If I buy 20 tickets at the same time, the tickets are only $16 bucks! Just write a comment and let me know if you want to come (what time and day) and I will buy your ticket, then you can pay me when I hand you your ticket. The show runs through December 16 to January 1st. Trust me, you don't want to miss this show.

Click here for more information and to get your own ticket, if you like.

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-01T16:10:00.001-06:00

This year we dressed up at Characters from Winnie the Pooh. We didn't get to actually all dress up together because Stephen worked on Saturday night which was our Ward trunk or treat and I had rehearsal on Monday night, so here are some of our awesome pictures. Yes, my kids hate pictures and, yes, I love to take pictures so I usually get pictures of them crying. Oh well.

Bathtub and boys

2011-10-29T15:05:00.002-06:00

Don't worry, I am not a fan of nudity on my blog; however, these boys in the tub together are just SO cute! I could not resist. For those of you who have not seen Nolen, ever, or for a very long time... here is a cute picture of his chubby legs that everyone talks about.

Really Walking now...

2011-10-29T14:59:00.001-06:00

Need help...

2011-10-27T08:25:00.000-06:00

Last night was the WORST night to date, with Nolen. Let me back up a bit. I started feeding Nolen solid food when he was 6 months old. He slept through the night up to 12 hours before that time. I started him on the usual rice and oatmeal. That is when the gas started. BAD GAS. I am talking about gas that smells like an old man and is extremely painful.
I took Nolen off the rice and oatmeal then put him on the Gerber baby food. The gas continued but was not as bad. Since then, I have tried many different foods and formula. We opted to keep him on Soy formula because the milk based formula seemed to cause him more discomfort.
Yesterday, I fed Nolen a handful of honey nut Cheerios, apple sauce, blueberry banana and apple's baby food, and for dinner he had some whole carrots peas corn and zucchini.
Out of all of that, I have no clue what would cause such painful gas; however, he was up ALL night crying and in pain.
I am asking for any help, any help at all would be great. If you have been through something like this yourself, or with your child, please, please, please help. I am suspecting a gluten allergy but I don't even know where to begin to get it diagnosed let alone fix the problem.

Thanks from one tired Mom.

To Love

2011-10-22T09:23:00.002-06:00

"And there’s this: parents who, particularly in this country, are expected to be superhuman, to raise children who outpace all their peers, don’t want to see what we see. The long truth about their children, about themselves: that none of it is forever...Parenting, I’ve come to understand, is about loving my child today. Now. In fact, for any parent, anywhere, that’s all there is."

Have some time today? Read this

It is amazing that as parents we are constantly looking toward the future as the present stares us in the face. We are trying to shape humans and make them better for the future... but what about right now? Our children need us today. Right this minute. They need us to play with them, love them, and give them every last piece of ourselves. And so I will try.

Sometimes

2011-10-21T17:55:00.000-06:00

I can be incredibly selfish. I am, after all, only human; however, I would like to change these momentary lapses in judgement. I keep so many thoughts wrapped up in my head about only me. I know being a Mom constitutes selflessness; albeit, I could be better. Way better. Just thought I would let you all know, I am working on not thinking of only me. I am trying to think of you, too.

Give more.

Love more.

Live more.

Share more.

Laugh more.

Help more.

Worth taking a listen

2011-10-21T10:14:00.001-06:00

All of Me - Jon Schmidt by AndyandJames

Shutterfly Holiday Card Party

2011-10-19T18:40:00.003-06:00

To all ABQ friends (or those that want to drive and visit me),
I was chosen to host a Shutterfly Holiday Card Party, Saturday, November 19th at 3:00. Shutterfly is an awesome website that allows you to create amazing memories with your photos. I have made cards, photo scrap books, and much much more. PLEASE come and see what free things you can get and learn about creating memories through Shutterfly. If you are at all interested click here. Yes, you can bring your friends and your children.

A birthday trip

2011-10-16T17:33:00.000-06:00

My Mom rode the train from Kingman, Arizona to our beautiful town here in Albuquerque. It took her 9 L O N G hours. It was totally worth having her here. She spent her 59th birthday with us.

We took her to McCall's pumpkin patch in Moriarty. As you can tell by the pictures, we had a blast. We are trying to make this an annual trip.

This is Nolen setting up for his first, EVER, drink of Soda!!

YUM!

I love my Mom so much and I am so glad she wanted to spend her birthday with us. She is amazing. I hope I can be just like her someday!

Thanks, Mom, for the awesome weekend.

Eleven Months

2011-10-16T15:50:00.000-06:00

Did this past month just fly by? I feel like I just wrote Nolen's 10 month post! Nolen is 24 pounds and has officially taken 5 steps all by himself. He is roughly 29.5 inches tall and ready to loose some of his little baby chub. He can say "uh, oh", "Mamma", and "Dada". He is so squishy and lovable!!

He's WALKING!

2011-10-11T11:42:00.001-06:00

"Can't you just control your kid?"

2011-10-10T11:59:00.002-06:00

A long, long, long time ago (2 years and 8 months ago) I used to wonder why people just couldn't control their wild children. I would see a crying kid in the grocery store or a screaming kid at church and think,

"Can't you just control your kid? I am going to be a WAY better parent and control my child."

Wow! I want to say: I was wrong. Way wrong. I mean, WAY wrong. I was so far backward in my thought process that I actually thought I could control another human being. What a fool! What a real fool!

So, to those parents that I may have judged, THIS is my apology to you. I am sorry. I was wrong. I had no idea that a 2 year old had a real mind of his own. I had no idea that a 10 month old could have such a strong will. I didn't know that you couldn't just tell your child to be quiet and then they would just be quiet.

For the record, they cry harder when you tell them to stop crying. For the record, they sleep when they want, they eat what they want, and they do what they want. (All within reason, but you catch my drift). They are humans. Tiny humans, but humans none the less.

If I don't get what I want, I get upset. If I can't sleep or eat when or what I want, I get mad. Why do we as adults expect a different behavior from a child when we can't even control ourselves?

If you are reading this and you have yet to have a child...

I know you think you can do a better job, and if you didn't think that then you would never have kids, right? It's all about making a better society. I just want to give you a small heads up, Children have their very own bodies, brains, and with that comes a strong will. They are people, too.

The curls

2011-10-08T19:26:00.000-06:00

What a lucky little boy. Edward was born with the most beautiful curly hair! I love it... I wonder if he will love it as a teenager and adult. For now, it is just adorable to me.

Riding the 4-wheeler

2011-10-06T15:09:00.001-06:00

Memories

2011-10-05T21:06:00.001-06:00

I am so glad I blog. I love to blog. I love to keep memories in a place that is convenient to me and my family. I love to look back on where we have been and what we have done.

I have boys.

My boys may not want to ever read my blog. They may never be interested in what I have written about them and they may not want to see what they looked like as little, teeny babies; however, I do.

2004

With my cousin Lindsey and roommate Rachel.

My life changed forever after this semester at BYU-I.

2005

My all time favorite picture of me and Stephen.

We are happy.

2006

One of many engagement pictures.

I thought I was fat. HA!

You and Me become: US.

2007

Deena Barnes (Stephen's cousin) came to live with us.

She was killed in a car accident shortly after this picture was taken.

Her life was too short.

She was a mother.

She was amazing.

She taught me to live for every moment.

2008

Me and my beautiful sister, Sharla.

We ran a half marathon together.

She came back to run with me.

She could have finished 30 minutes before, but she waited.

She loves me.

I love her.

2009

Edward Forrest Barnes enters the world.

This is the first picture ever snapped of him.

Many pictures will follow.

His birth was a gift.

2010

Nolen William Barnes enters the world.

This is the first picture ever snapped of him.

Again, many pictures will follow.

His birth made me realize I am strong.

2011

This is me.

Now.

Happy, forever.

This blog is for me. Sometimes I think about making it private for only my eyes, because I write for me. Then I look at who reads my blog and, really, there aren't many who read it while those that do read are dear friends that I trust and love and want to share my life with always.

With all that being said, this post is about my memories. I am totally and completely in love. I love my life. I love my husband. I love my boys. I love them for miles and miles and miles. I, sometimes, look back and get a little sad at how fast time is flying by for me. I can't believe I am 30. I have done so much, yet, I have done so little. (As a side note, I used to think I was ugly and fat... what a waste of time.) I look at pictures of me and my family and I can see how happy we really are together. I want to bottle up these moments and keep them in my heart forever.

Since a bottle of magic memories is not available, I blog.

Kingman in September

2011-10-02T09:55:00.002-06:00

We had the greatest time in Kingman this last week. We did everything Kingman had to offer and them some. The boys had a fun time playing with cousins and helping Grandpa with projects like cleaning out the pond and taking care of the fish.

We celebrated my Dad's 60th birthday and all pitched in to get him an awesome Rolex watch. We a fake one in with the real one to see if he could tell which one was the right one. I think he loved it.

We spent another day out at Wade and Sharla's gold mine shooting guns and riding 4-wheelers. I forgot about all the dirt and cow poop involved in heading out in to the desert so maybe this trip will be more fun when Nolen can walk. He was stuck in the car most of the time because he really, really wanted to eat the cow poo.

Edward had a "small" accident on the way to the gold mine. My Dad spent the drive getting out and "pruning the desert" so that his truck wouldn't get scratched and Edward's diaper could not hold any more, so we had to set his new wranglers out in the sun to dry.

Nolen is patiently waiting for his turn to shoot the gun.

After an awesome day shooting guns we spent the evening at the train park in Kingman. Edward and Nolen love trains. Surprisingly, I had not taken them there in past trips. They had a great time climbing up the steps and pretending to drive the train with Grandma.

Another adventure we hadn't done in the past was to ride one of the 10-15 horses that are in the back yard. Edward kept saying how he wanted to take Rose home with us. So much fun.

We have the greatest time taking baths in Grandma's HUGE bath tub and then reading books with Grandpa at night before bed. Edward and his cousin, Logan, have the greatest time together.

As I was getting ready to leave, I let the boys out in the back yard to play. I forgot that it had rained the night before and I didn't really think they would find their way to the mud, but they did. I walked outside to find this....

We had such a great time and I miss Kingman the moment we leave. Until next time.

Letters

2011-09-22T10:24:00.003-06:00

While at church on Sunday, I over heard a nursery leader talking about how it was just amazing that a two year old could sing the alphabet. Well, Edward isn't much of a singer but he sure knows his letters and what sounds they make and I kind of thought that was a little bit better than just knowing a song about the letters. So, here is my proof that little Edward will be reading when he is three. (He can already read his name and the word "dog".) Kids can learn anything we teach them.

*This is a long video so you don't have to watch it, this is mostly just for me to record the happenings of my little family.

Dear Pinterest...

2011-09-18T10:52:00.002-06:00

Top: Banana Republic Skirt: Banana Republic Belt: Target Necklace: Hawaii street vendor

Bracelet: ribbon Ring: My loving Husband Shoes: Ross Dress for less

Hair: Water and Baking Powder

Body: A work in progress

Thanks for helping me get dressed this morning. And thanks to church for giving me a place to go.

10 Months

2011-09-15T14:11:00.005-06:00

It is seriously hard to believe that Nolen is 10 months old today. He has grown so much and the months have flown by with him in our lives.

Nolen is still crawling but has now been standing with out holding anything. He has attempted a few steps; however, he has been unsuccessful. I think it will be another two months before we really see him walking.

Nolen still does not sleep through the night although we have come up with a good routine so that we aren't missing too many hours of sleep.

Nolen has two bottom teeth that just came in and he is getting his top two teeth as well.

Nolen can say "mama" and "dada" but still doesn't reference them to any one in particular. I bet his first word will be Edward. :)

Nolen loves his brother. He follows him everywhere and tries to do everything Edward is doing. He loves to play with the same toys and that sometimes results in a bit of a conflict.

Nolen is 22.4 pounds and almost 29 inches. He is such a big boy. He will soon be out of the 12 month clothes and right in to 18 month clothing.

Nolen will eat anything. He does not like us to put the food in his mouth; however, he wants to touch it first and then he will put it in and eat every last bite. He still does not eat dinner because his stomach can't handle that much food. Hopefully, when he is off formula, he can eat everything we are eating and not have to miss a meal.

Nolen has such a wonderful temperament and is usually calm unless he really needs or wants something. He is kind. He is caring, he is considerate, and he doesn't mind playing all by himself.

I love this little guy so much. I am so grateful he was given to us to care for while he spends his time here on earth. He is perfect for our family.

Dad, water, and jeeps

2011-09-15T13:37:00.006-06:00

In 1999 Stephen purchased his first ever car. A used 1997 Toyota Corolla. He drove this car until last August when we purchased a family car, the Toyota Highlander. Stephen was then upgraded to the 2000 Honda Accord. He drove the Accord for a year and we were finally able to upgrade his car to an awesome 2009 Jeep Wrangler. He loves it, but I bet you can guess who loves it more, Edward! Stephen and Edward go for long 4 wheelin' drives together for awesome Father-Son activities.

Now that the rainy season has finally arrived the boys have been waking up and running outside to play in the mud. I am sure girls would never do this (note sarcasm); however, my boys LOVE water and they love to get dirty.

As a small side note, this ugly bush that has been growing in my back yard tuned out to be a beautiful New Mexico Sunflower!

9-11-01

2011-09-11T17:17:00.004-06:00

Where was I? I was starting my Junior year of college at the University of North Texas as a Vocal Music Major. I had a crazy summer and was just trying to survive. I woke up that morning and didn't have enough money for gas so I had to take the bus to school. I had recently started a new job as a cashier at the food court so I had to take a change of clothes with me to school. After riding the bus for an hour then walking to the Music building I started to get the feeling something wasn't right. I walked in to the building and it was basically empty. I saw a crowed of people huddled around the television in the student lounge area. I ignored them. I went to my classroom and sat down. Not a soul came in to the class. Not even the teacher. After 10 minutes of sitting alone, I decided to walk back to the crowed of people by the television. By this time there wasn't even standing room in the student lounge. I asked a girl what was going on and she said New York City had been bombed.

I was shocked. I wanted to get closer to hear the details but I couldn't even force my way through the room. I went to the student cafeteria to see if I could hear more and that is when someone really said what had happened. A plane had crashed in to the world trade tower buildings. I started wondering if I knew anyone in New York. At this point the entire school just shut down. The side walks were deserted. The buses had stopped and America seemed silent. I walked the 5 miles home basically alone on the streets and cried.

Where were you?

flowers and boys

2011-09-11T15:27:00.005-06:00

Since we don't plan to add another child to our family, we have only boys. Boys and flowers really don't go together unless you have a sweet boy named Edward who absolutely loves beautiful flowers and he loves to just stop and smell them, even if we are driving and he sees them growing wildly on the side of the road. I promised Edward, after driving passed flowers all day, that I would take him to pick some all for himself.

double bleh

2011-09-09T13:39:00.000-06:00

Both my boys are sick... again.

Manners

2011-09-05T08:45:00.001-06:00

I found this on pinterest and thought I would share... now how do I teach my children these rules?

25 Manners Kids (and adults) Should Know
#1: When asking for something, say "Please."
#2: When receiving something, say "Thank you."
#3: Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.
#4: If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.
#5: When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.
#6: The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.
#7: Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.
#8: When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
#9: When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
#10: Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
#11: When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
#12: Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.
#13: Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
#14: Don't call people mean names.
#15: Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
#16: Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
#17: If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
#18: Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
#19: As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
#20: If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.
#21: When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
#22: When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!
#23: Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
#24: Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
#25: Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.

For bean,

2011-09-04T14:28:00.002-06:00

Right before Edward joined our lives, I had the idea to put together a quilt with all of my old t-shirts and all of Stephen's old army stuff. I didn't really do much as my Mom did almost all the sewing and I just cut out the shirts and mapped it out on the ground. My mother is an amazing seamstress and I wish I would have inherited those awesome qualities.

sleeping baseball

2011-09-04T10:53:00.004-06:00

Taking pictures of sleeping babies is something I just can't bring myself to do because I don't want to wake them up... but they look so cute when they are sleeping. So, I turned off the sound and flash to the camera and snapped a few pictures of Nolen while he was sleeping. I know they are dark and grainy... but this is the best I can do.

Also, Edward has been having a blast learning to hit a baseball. Enjoy your Sunday!

This is a post about real life

2011-09-02T19:05:00.006-06:00

Today, I didn't get dressed. Today, I didn't work out. Today, I didn't fold the laundry. Today, I didn't clean the house.

Today, I played with my boys. We laughed, we played, we loved.

I tried...

2011-09-02T11:17:00.003-06:00

I have been trying to be a little more crafty and this was one of my first craft projects. Wow, it was hard. A lot harder than the lady said it would be on Pinterest. Here is what she made:

Source: wellhownice.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Here is what I made:

I found that the letter 'S' is nearly impossible and the letter 'M' looks much easier. I just don't have that artistic eye, but I tried. Here's hoping my other projects work out a little better.

almost...

2011-08-30T15:45:00.002-06:00

Family Feet

2011-08-28T19:04:00.002-06:00

Science, Sleeping, & Surgery

2011-08-26T15:51:00.006-06:00

This week has been an adventurous week for Edward. He had his first (and hopefully last) ever surgery to place tubes in his ears. We have been waiting months for this day and I am so grateful everything worked out well. Edward and I went to the hospital around 6:30 AM and were taken back to wait for the doctor. The doctor didn't show up until 7:30 and it was a little tough to entertain Edward and keep him from wanting to eat or drink anything. He kept asking for his bottle and some fruit snacks. Edward was given a little sedative to help with anxiety and was then whisked away in a wheelbarrow for surgery. It only took 15 minutes before I got to back and hold him while he woke up. He was not in a very good mood and in some pretty intense pain. The doctor told me that once he got in and actually opened up his ear drum he could see the damage to his right ear drum was much worse than he expected. Turns out his right ear drum was bruised and deflated. This means he probably couldn't hear anything at all.

After a day of recovery, Edward seems to be doing really well. We haven't had any hitting or tantrums, yet. I hope this is the fix we needed.

The day before surgery, Edward went to his "Grow a scientist" class with Stephen. He had such a blast. He loved making things and then painting. He didn't want to wear the apron but I guess you can't win all the battles with a 2 year old.

As a side note, Nolen did sleep 7 hours one night so I don't think all hope is lost, yet.

Voice

2011-08-23T16:02:00.001-06:00

This is what I would like to sound like... here's hoping practice will pay off.

two point five

2011-08-19T16:45:00.014-06:00

Edward is 2 1/2 today. In exactly 2 1/2 years, Edward will be off to kindergarten. That is a hard sentence to swallow. He is so grown up and the last 2 1/2 years have flown by for me.

Edward loves to laugh.

He loves trains, planes, cars, and monster trucks.

Edward loves to jump.

He loves jumping off the couch, off his bed, and off the hard bare floor.

Edward is sleeping in a big boy bed.

He is running and climbing and curious.

Edward loves to draw.

He draws the most meticulous pictures with an incredibly steady hand.

Edward loves pasta.

He loves to eat berries, watermelon, cantaloupe, and most of all pasta!

Edward loves his brother.

He will play with his brother nicely most of the day and he loves to give him huge hugs and kisses.

Edward is 36 1/2 inches and 32 pounds.

Edward is lovable.

He loves his nightly routine of bath, books, prayer, songs, and bed.

Edward is amazing.

He amazes me everyday. He is full of life.

He takes 2-3 hour naps and sleeps all night long expect when he has ear infections and new teeth growing. He is expected to be happy every minute of every day starting next Thursday after he has his tubes put in.

I love my sweet Edward. I love my days with him no matter how challenging they may be.

I am so blessed to have such an awesome 2 1/2 year old in my life.

"oh, botha"

2011-08-19T10:45:00.002-06:00

We have been watching a lot of Winnie the pooh lately and this quote is exactly how I feel today. I might as well just vent it out and then feel better, right?

For starters, or should I say, the whole reason I can't get my act together is because we are still not sleeping. Nolen woke up 4 times last night. Bleh!

I auditioned to sing with the Opera Company I sang with last year and I got in and I got an understudy part. I am excited; however, I really, really, really wanted a part this year. I guess this is one step closer.

I gained 2 pounds. Bleh!

Edward is finally getting his 2 year old molars. Poor kid. On top of his ear infections.

Nolen is finally getting some teeth, I think.

Alright, I feel better.

It is worth all the pain, trials, and tears.

2011-08-15T13:26:00.002-06:00

Nine Months

2011-08-15T12:47:00.005-06:00

Nine months old, already? Nolen is a sweet soul.

He is kind and extremely patient with his older brother, Edward.

Nolen is 22 pounds and 27 inches tall. He is constantly smiling.

He loves to drive monster trucks all over the house and can be found inside the pantry.

It's no wonder he is 22 pounds, his very favorite thing to do is eat.

He still doesn't sleep through the night, not even close. He actually woke up 7 times last night; however, we sure do love him.

He can say, "Mamamama" and "Dadadada" and he really likes to yell.

His favorite food seems to be watermelon or yogurt bites.

I just can't get enough of my little "noners"!

He is a true joy and blessing to me.

I love him.

Boyz...

2011-08-14T19:55:00.004-06:00

I just love these two little guys. We are patiently (ok, not patiently) waiting for Edward to get tubes in his ears and his smiles are few and far between. I thought I would share a few...

Oil

2011-08-12T15:20:00.005-06:00

Have you ever been or are you interested in Essential Oils for naturalpathic remedies? I have always been a bit skeptical of things like this, so I am testing it out for you. Check out my page dedicated to Essential Oils where you can read about things that worked and things that didn't. I plan to update every Friday. ESSENTIAL OILS

Happy Bloggin'!

Oh, here are two pictures of the boys as the compete for my attention while I type...

E&N

2011-08-11T12:12:00.005-06:00

Sometimes I wonder why we are given specific trials in our lives...

I have a tendency to have little to no patience. That's right. I admit it.

Edward has been sick. Real sick. He has basically been sick since January. Consistently going to the doctor to get more medicine for, yet, another ear infection. We have tried all different types of medicine. We have tried all at home remedies. We have tried just about everything. Edward got an ear infection right before we went to San Diego in June. I made an appointment to see a specialist. We finally got in to see the specialist and he confirmed that Edward should get tubes put in his ears. We had to see another doctor to test Edward's hearing and found out that he only hears about 70% of the time and when he can hear us it is as if we are speaking under water. Edward will get tubes August 25, 2011.

For now, August 25th might as well be in the year 2050! Every single day brings more excruciating pain for Edward. He screams, he cries, he throws tantrums, and worst of all he hits his brother. I am seriously at the end of my rope when it comes to discipline. I have tried everything. EVERYTHING. I keep saying silent prayers that once Edward has his tubes his attitude will change.

Has anyone every experienced something like this? What worked? What didn't?

Nolen is still not sleeping. We are no closer to having Nolen sleep through the night that the night we brought him home from the hospital. Actually, we are making steps in the wrong direction.

I feel like I am failing as a parent. I want my children to be well and enjoy their childhood and I really want to enjoy parenthood.

Can someone come and take over for me and get my kids well and happy and sleeping... I promise I will come back as soon as the hard stuff is over.

I really love my boys. There is nothing easy about my trial right now. I did read a book called, "the one minute teacher" and it has opened my eyes to making goals and achieving them. Today, I will change my attitude and keep on keepin' on.

Happy blogging!

To all my friends with comment posting trouble...

2011-08-03T07:54:00.001-06:00

Here is the response I received after posting my comment posting issues. Good luck and happy posting.

I just left a test comment on "julieandstephen.blogspot.com". The blog uses a popup comment form, with all levels of authentication accepted, no CAPTCHA screening, and no moderation. Popup comment forms are a problem with folks who filter popups in their browsers. I recommend the full page comment form, rather than the popup form, for this reason.

The Security Needs Of Your Readers May Limit Your Choice Of Comment Form Style, On Your Blog:

http://blogging.nitecruzr.net/2011/01/technical-sophistication-of-your-blogs.html

If you are having problems posting comments on blogs which use an embedded comment form,
you have a problem with authentication, and with cookie filtering. If you have a problem with popup forms, you too have a browser which blocks popup forms.

First, try a different login procedure.

1. Login to Blogger using "www.blogger.com".

2. Do not check "Remember me".

If that does not help, try a second time..

1. Clear cache, cookies, and sessions (not just cache or cookies) - then restart the browser.

2. Login to Blogger using "www.blogger.com".

3. Do not check "Remember me".

Alternatively,
enable (stop filtering) "third party cookies", in your browser and on
your computer. That's the best solution, overall.

Try the commenting / cookie test, by commenting on 2 of my blogs, if you like.

Additional advice:

Login To Blogger, Differently:

http://blogging.nitecruzr.net/2011/05/blog-owners-unable-to-login-to-blogger_27.html

Why Third Party Cookies Are A Necessity:

http://blogging.nitecruzr.net/2011/06/cookie-filtering-and-commenting-ability.html

Test For Cookie Filtering Problem:

http://blogging.nitecruzr.net/2010/10/testing-for-problem-with-cookies.html

Please, Don't Filter Web Content, Excessively:

http://blogging.nitecruzr.net/2011/07/unfilter-web-selectively.html

Dreaming

2011-08-02T13:04:00.000-06:00

S O L D ! ! ! ! Buyer beware!

2011-08-01T18:44:00.005-06:00

I, honestly, can not believe I am no longer a home owner. I am so extremely excited. After Five years and Four months, I can not express how happy I am that it is finally over. I am sure you are reading this and wondering, who on earth doesn't want to own a home? Let me start from the beginning and maybe you will understand some of my anguish.

April 2006. I bought a home. $250,000. 1546 sqft. ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-ONE DOLLARS AND SEVENTY-ONE CENTS per square foot!

I loved every inch of that home.

As a first time home buyer, I had no idea what I was really in for while owning a home. I had many extra expenses that I wasn't fully prepared to pay. For starters, at the time of buying the home my salary was $33,000. That's all. Most banks will only offer home buyers a loan for double or triple the yearly income. That being said, I should have bought a home for just over $100,000. My price range.

With home ownership comes a lot of unexpected responsibility. HOA Dues. What are those you ask? The devils company. HOA is just a fancy way of saying you are getting screwed and there is nothing you can do about it. I bought a home that had TWO HOA's totaling a monthly amount of $124.58. My total for 5 years and 4 month = $7973.12 down the toilet. FLUSH!

Secondly, as a home owner you will have things that break or need replacing. Unfortunately, this is just a fact of life.

Third, there are many bills one will have to pay in order to maintain the property. I can't really count this as a loss as this expense would exist even in a rental home. Electric, Gas, Water, Sewage and Garbage. However, as a first time home buyer, I didn't really take in to account how much this would cost me monthly. Just to give you an idea... one summer our electric bill alone was over $400.00!!!

Last, but most important by my standards, is the down payment and monthly payments the new home owner will be expected to pay on the FIRST of the month with out fail or have risk of losing the beautiful home and ruined their flawless credit. I put $10,000 of my own money down and borrowed $40,000 from my parents as we both thought this would be a sound investment for the future.

That is FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS! let me repeat that, FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS!

My payment was $979 PLUS Insurance and Taxes. This rounded my payment out to $1141 a month = $73,024 over 5 years; however, we can take out 8 months worth as I didn't actually pay that so the total becomes $63,896. Not too bad, really. (note sarcasm) I also had my own insurance plan for which I paid $30 bones a month = $1920 over five years.

So, let us do the math together. How much was lost? Well we can do this the easy way and say, "the house sold for $100,000, so I lost $150,000"!!!! Or we can add up all the ACTUAL CASH I lost in this so called investment. Let's do it that way and cry together, shall we?

ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED EIGHTY-NINE Dollars AND TWELVE CENTS!

$123,789.12

And, now you see why I will avoid buying a home for a VERY long time.

Please enjoy your evening.

I'm still a homeowner...

2011-07-30T13:46:00.003-06:00

I was really hoping the title of this post would be "SOLD" ;however, that is not the case. Unfortunately the bank has a few more things to decide before my house can be officially off the market. In the mean time, I am sure you were wondering if boys are born to drive cars around. I have proof. Nolen is completely fascinated by this car and loves driving this exact car all over the house. I sure do love my boys!

I think I need a pinterest...

2011-07-28T20:46:00.003-06:00

Oh, I just love these! I want to buy TWO sets! I guess it is time for me to sign up for pinterest because I am starting to dream about how I want to decorate my home and I would hate to bombard my blog with all my dreams... um, no, I don't own a home (not as of tomorrow, hopefully); however, I am sure we will be home owners in the future! I can't wait!!

Summer fun

2011-07-24T07:42:00.004-06:00

To be honest, we really haven't left the house much this summer. I feel like we go somewhere every day; however, that is just to the gym and grocery store. Really we spend our time here at home just playing and having fun.

Summer Swim Lessons

2011-07-21T18:57:00.003-06:00

We didn't really accomplish a lot this year at swim lessons; mostly because Edward had to be in the Parent/Tot class again and two classes were cancelled because of the rain. However; Edward did learn to jump in all on his own!!

We went from this....

To this...

Giveaway with Theadsence!

2011-07-21T13:12:00.000-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More fashion

Cut Mug free at shutterfly.com!

2011-07-20T13:47:00.000-06:00

Mug

View the entire collection of cards.

Emma Watson

2011-07-18T12:17:00.003-06:00

Modest is Hottest, Ladies. "I find the whole concept of being ‘sexy’ embarrassing and confusing. If I do an interview with photographs people desperately want to change me - dye my hair blonder, pluck my eyebrows, give me a fringe. Then there’s the choice of clothes. I know everyone wants a picture of me in a mini-skirt. But that’s not me. I feel uncomfortable. I’d never go out in a mini-skirt. It’s nothing to do with protecting the Hermione image. I wouldn’t do that. Personally, I don’t actually think it’s even that sexy. What’s sexy about saying, ‘I’m here with my boobs out and a short skirt, have a look at everything I’ve got?’ My idea of sexy is that less is more. The less you reveal the more people can wonder. - Emma Watson

*I saw this on facebook and had to share. Wow, I totally respect Emma Watson. What an amazing role model.

In love with this song

2011-07-16T18:52:00.001-06:00

Sia-Breathe Me (Butch Clancy Remix) *NEW!! DL link in desc.* by Butch Clancy

compare

2011-07-15T14:40:00.002-06:00

8 Months!

2011-07-15T14:22:00.003-06:00

Wow, in 4 short months, my little man will be a year old! Where has the time gone?? Nolen, we just love you to pieces! Nolen can now officially crawl and pull himself up. He is standing more steadily each day. I have to remember to close ALL the doors in the house or I wont be able to find this little guy. He still does not sleep through the night and I am at a total loss of what to do. Trust me, we have tried everything. I think he just needs more time and love, (of course, that is all I have to give). I just love this little guy so much and I really can not remember what we ever did with out him. Also, compare these pictures with Edward's picture below. They look so much alike!

Featured!

2011-07-14T10:43:00.001-06:00

Check it out at CSNBLOG

Twins?

2011-07-13T14:49:00.002-06:00

I think my kids look a lot alike... I didn't believe it before, but looking at Edward's 8 month photo shoot... there are no words, I will let the picture speak for itself.

Trying to get Edward to sing happy birthday

2011-07-09T18:26:00.001-06:00

Happy 31st, to my love

2011-07-09T18:15:00.002-06:00

Hard to believe another year has flown by in Stephen's life. Last year we really celebrated his 30th with a huge surprise party. This year we took things a little slower and just celebrated with family. I dressed the boys up and Edward made the cake. (Ok, I helped a little.) I am more in love with my husband, today, than the day I met him. Our lives together are wonderful.

10 things I love about Stephen: (in no particular order)

1: He is an amazing husband.

2: He loves his children

3: He respects God

4: He works hard to support his family

5: He supports me in all my silly adventures

6: He is a great father and loves to play with his boys even when he is exhausted

7: He has my best interest at heart

8: He is positive

9: He does not gossip

10: He has always been the man of my dreams and I am so lucky to have him in my life

Our garden before and after

2011-07-09T11:00:00.002-06:00

Crawling!

2011-07-08T18:02:00.001-06:00

YEAH!!!

Barnes Boys at the Beach

2011-07-07T10:25:00.024-06:00

Barnes Boys at the Beach

Stephen and I took the boys to San Diego for a week. We had a blast! We left Sunday after church and drove to Phoenix. The first part of the drive wasn't too bad; however, I was not looking forward to waking up and driving 5 more hours with two rambunctious boys. We arrived in San Diego Monday afternoon and went directly to the beach. We rented a condo that was about a 4 minute walk down to a private beach in Encinitas. It was truly amazing. The beach was located down four flights of stairs or a huge bluff. Since we got to the beach in the evening, the tide was already rolling in. We played for a little while, and I took pictures only to notice too late that all of our stuff was being washed out in to the ocean, including Nolen. I gathered everything up and I think we only lost one thing to the tide (and don't worry, it wasn't Nolen).

Tuesday was my 30th birthday. We just planned to go surfing and out to eat. Wow, surfing was so much harder than I thought it was going to be. We surfed for 2 long hours and I only caught 3 or 4 waves. I rode the first wave of the day all the way to the beach, then I was just too tired to stand up. Stephen had a huge banana board and had a hard time maneuvering it in the ocean. He did catch a few waves along with Wade and Sharla. I, honestly, feel awesome being 30! I love where I am in my life and I couldn't be happier!

Wednesday we went to the Sealife Aquarium at Legoland. Albuquerque has a much better aquarium. We did enjoy looking at the sea life and petting starfish. Edward had some kind of a melt down so he missed the first part of the tour; however, after some Advil his attitude improved.

Thursday we went to the beach, we actually went every day, then we went to Legoland water park. Another let down. One of the main pools was closed so the other pools were packed and the water park was not that big to begin with.

Friday was the big day we planned to stay all day at Legoland. Unfortunately, Edward had, yet another, melt down as we walked in the gate. He then skinned his knee while digging for fossils. We did stand in a few lines and rode a few rides; however, our kids are just too impatient for waiting in long lines just to ride a 1 minute ride. I guess we will have to wait a few years to do Disney Land. We went home around 1:30 and we all took a LONG much needed nap. Stephen and I went out boogie boarding all by ourselves that evening and had a blast!

Saturday we packed up and headed back to Phoenix to spend the 4th of July with Stephen's family. We had such a wonderful time with family and friends. I wish we could have seen all of our Phoenix friends; however, we really didn't have enough time. Maybe we will see you all in another year.

Happy Vacationing!

blogger comments

2011-07-06T07:42:00.001-06:00

I can't post comments on blogs anymore... anyone know how to fix it?? Or is it just my computer?

Mary J. Mann Photography

2011-07-06T07:11:00.000-06:00

on the move

2011-06-26T10:15:00.001-06:00

AH!

2011-06-25T13:09:00.003-06:00

Well, I have a million things to get done today... and here I am, sitting at the computer. I decided to leave the house with both boys in tow hoping to accomplish my "million" things list. I received a package from UPS that wasn't addressed to me. I thought I could take it back to the UPS store and they would return it to the sender. In case you are wondering, you can't do that. You have to CALL UPS and have the truck come back and pick it up. What a hassle! I learned this valuable lesson after dragging both my boys through the parking lot, standing in line, and then talking with the UPS store clerk.

I then decided to head to the bank to get my short sale paperwork notarized. Bad idea for a Saturday; however, this was the only day available for me to get it done. Turns out there was only one notary available and she was busy with a customer for 45 minutes. I sat in the front of the Smith's grocery store with my two crying children for 20 minutes before she finally came out and asked why these kids were crying. UM, they are sad because they don't have patience and I neither do I, for that matter.

Well, back to my "million" list and I hope I get it all done before tomorrow because I am looking to have an awesome week next week. Here is to the last few days of my 20's! SO excited to be 30!

Oh, and if you EVER short sale your home... just know it is going to be really stressful no matter what the circumstances may be.

I love Give-aways!

2011-06-24T13:36:00.001-06:00

Check out CSN's new blog and enter their give-away!

CSN Blog

Why I love him...

2011-06-17T14:51:00.002-06:00

Essential Oils Class

2011-06-15T17:42:00.001-06:00

7 Months!

2011-06-15T13:00:00.003-06:00

Has it been 7 months, already? Where has the time gone? I really can not believe Nolen is 7 months old today! He is so big and so happy. He is 20 pounds and roughly 26 inches tall. He is such a joy. We have been sleep training for the last month and it has resulted in... well, nothing. Nolen had one break through night where he slept 6 hours but has since reverted back to waking every 2 hours. We found out he suffers from pretty bad acid reflux and still has terrible gas. I suppose those two reasons are keeping him awake at night. Much to my avail, Nolen is officially teething. Poor little guy.

As far as milestones are concerned, he can get up on his hands and knees and attempts to take a few crawling steps. He can sit unassisted; however, he does not know how to get into a sitting position. He rolls all over the house. His very favorite spot remains the jumper. We just love this little guy. Every day he reminds me how awesome it is to be a Mom. I love him, I love him, I love him!

Nolen's first time swimming

2011-06-11T20:28:00.005-06:00

We have been swimming at our gym pool since January; however, Nolen has not been along to swim. We took him to the out door kiddie pool the day it opened. He had a blast!! Edward loved swimming with Nolen and, of course, Nolen loved swimming! I just love these two cute little boys!

5x7 Folded Card

2011-06-08T14:05:00.001-06:00

Alphabet Blocks Father's Day 5x7 folded card

Shutterfly cards for Mother's Day, Valentines Day, Birthdays & more.

View the entire collection of cards.

My favorite quote...

2011-06-08T13:40:00.001-06:00

"Only the weak blame parents, their race, their times, lack of good fortune, or the quirks of fate. Everyone has is within his power to say, this I am today, that I shall be tomorrow. The wish, however, must be implemented by deeds." Louis L'Amour; The Walking Drum