The Hardest Part About Parenting No One Talks About!

[@tigrlady2u]

We threw a huge, fancy Mickey Mouse themed party for my grandson's first birthday. When someone commented that that was a lot of money and work for something he won't even remember, my daughter responded that the first birthday isn't for the kid, it's for the parents to celebrate that they managed to keep this tiny human alive for an entire year. 😊 My grandson has autism and is non-verbal, and he will never appreciate that party, but it was a wonderful memory for my daughter. No, no one can prepare you for when your kids begin to grow up and become more independent. It's even harder when they become adults. Don't blink; it goes by so very quickly. ❤

[@iamgroot95]

Yall gross me out. Stop exploiting your kids.

[@TrishRyan-ey8go]

Wow have times changed! When I was a kid my birthday party was a cake a pizza 🍕 🎂 and the backyard!! Fancy for Nancy!! 🎉

[@rondastothers472]

I had a huge tea party birthday party for my daughter’s 5th birthday with all the works and with 25 girls as a single mom. I planned and saved all year ! It can be done if you want it bad enough❤❤

[@juliecummings6345]

I’ve been watching this vlog since the beginning and before that I was watching Bringing Up Bates. To be perfectly honest, I miss the early days when the families acted more like normal people. Social Media and all its perks and payments has changed them. Normal people cannot afford the extravagancies that influencers all the time. I miss just the fun loving real life, non sponsored vlogs of yesteryear. I miss the real life, 5 day work week, making ends meet lifestyle they used to have. I feel it was more relatable to most. I still like to watch and keep up with everyone, I just enjoyed it a bit more when it felt “more real”.

[@jilllocklear4763]

Same ❤

[@deborahfoust6886]

yes

[@jmcast3195]

I think there are newer, less "discovered", couples out there.

[@Disneymom28]

I agree it’s all about dressing to the nines now and fashion and spending tons of money. Ralph Lauren and Samba’s a Tesla a jeep all the trips. They used to have to wear dresses that came past their knees or down to the floor now most of the girls wear skimpy dresses. They’re great people but wow, things have changed.

[@firecracker-c4z]

Most young family's can't afford their lifestyle. All those trips, vacation, theater. I'm glad if i can go on vacation once a year. Layla is performance all the time with a camera on her. 😢 I miss the early days with picknick in the park.

[@emmaaguiniga4717]

Evan don’t worry..my kids come home from school for the holidays and don’t want to leave. They’re home every chance they get! They even bring out of state friends along to spend the holidays with us..love it ❤

[@wildflower008]

Your friends planned a beautiful party💗🤍 It was nice to see Zach and Whitney. You guys are a bright spot in the lives of so many. I love your positivity and love for each other. I look forward to your videos every week.

[@katrinap2432]

Y’all are so cute, just love to watch you guys. The kids are just the sweetest , nice to see joyful happy families, God bless

[@lisawatkins8801]

My Dad and brother put up the Christmas tree, my mom vacuumed up the fallen needles and then my sister and I did the lights and ornaments by ourselves. You're making great memories no matter how things change. Y'all are so incredibly blessed.

[@JolovesDecor]

I’m sorry. No offense. But we have over a 1000 kids living in tents whose homes were swept away in Helene. Snow in the mountains. It looks the same 50 days later as when it happened. Cadaver dogs every day still doing recovery. This is not the Stewart’s fault, but I can’t watch this today. Maybe later. Going through what we’ve gone through in Swannanoa, gives perspective to life. I do not think badly of anyone who has …in any way, but at this time I just can’t focus on this kind of extravagance (I’m referring to that party for a 1 yr. Old) when kids and families are living in tents across the street. 😢. I truly hope your kids had a great time. ❤ God bless y’all, and hug your family. Know how extremely blessed you are. I’ll watch later. 😊 we all love your family.

[@lorriepowell6323]

I totally agree

[@at4everTia]

Yes. If someone has that much to spare they should donate..I know KZbinrs get things sent to them, and deals but I don't know in their case

[@Terisue-l7e]

@@JolovesDecor Spot on!! 👍🏻

[@marylawson4492]

My thoughts exactly. Is it God first or material things first ???? You think it’s great she’s so independent, and in charge. Boy do you guys have alot to learn.

[@chrissiecarr5721]

It’s all over the top and in your face😳The world seems so unbalanced….Peace to all of good will🕊️

[@annielyst]

We need a Travis/Evan singing among the Christmas trees video.

[@CD-il5xh]

yes! another Travis/Evan duet please!!!

[@jnbond]

Like last year! Yesss!!

[@vickiemitchell123]

I love to hear Travis sing!!

[@Shippingnews]

The super cheesey Christmas duet needs to become a tradition!

[@belindasanders7072]

Yes yes yes another Evan & Travis duet! Was so great last year!!! ❤ u guys bunches. God bless

[@susanlassiter6494]

My oldest is is 44 and I can tell you every year is a new learning for you as a parent and now for me as a a granny, it's beautiful and so sweet and so heartfelt Enjoy every moment!

[@TerriSpringer]

Zade is so sweet. He picked the cutest trees. Thank you for sharing

[@Gree263]

Omg, Zade!! He's so special & unique. He's the poster child FOR having kids!💙💚💛💙💚💛

[@suestephan3255]

And looks like his Papa Stewart

[@BeeWOWdbyAprilLee]

Zade is so dang adorable telling wait for me layla. Omg so precious

[@rah2209]

Oh MY Goodness!!! That is one extremely extravagant kid party. I Can’t imagine how they will top it next year. Clearly it a party for the adults.

[@steezyjackiessister]

Jesus loves y’all❤

[@nancymosley708]

I loved the kids trying to pick out a tree. It can be overwhelming. Laylas outfit for the tree farm was adorable. Zade is so cute and I can’t get over his arm rolls that he still has. You just want to squeeze him. Fun that your kids had trees in their room. That’s magical. I did grow up in GA although I live in KC now. So I have to say Go Dawgs! 🏈That was a fun way to watch a game together.

[@carolwhisenhunt7504]

Zade running thru that yard was so cute! He looks so much like Mr Stewart. Love you guys.

[@asacor9435]

You have to make them do certain things in the formative years that they " don't want to do " ie decorate the tree as a family. Because that teaches you work ethic, of pushing through a job or season you don't feel like doing. Also, how to compromise, share ect . Because no one as an adult likes to hang out with a whiny , or selfish individual.

[@melissam.8838]

My thought exactly! Since when does a 4 year old get to make their own choices?!! She is going to grow up to be a spoiled brat if something doesn’t change.

[@nancyclaiborne5091]

Yes,a little over the top! Children were adorable ❤

[@cindland]

Parenting is bitter sweet. Bc we are given our children to ultimately let them go. So all through the different ages and stages we are actually losing a bit of then every day as they mature and try to make decisions on their own. Hold on tight onto the times where they let us in more!❤️

[@seventhdayissabbath8747]

As soon as you give the kids their own "trees" in their rooms, they no longer want to gather around the big tree in the living room, that is until there are presents under the big tree!!

[@janelizrodriguez2509]

Yes, my thoughts exactly. They have already experienced the Christmas tree moment so it's not that "special" for the big tree. These are just my thoughts and I could be wrong. Either way, love the family and how much God has blessed them. I hope God heals Evan and Carlins heart from what their new experience with their little girl. As well mostly, I pray God helps those in need in the states surrounding them that were effected by natural distasters. God is with you and loves you. God bless you all. 🙏🕊

[@araborn38]

My kids had trees in their rooms and they gathered around the tree. Maybe be a parent and tell them they will gather around the tree🙄

[@vickifg13]

I say it every week y’all are the sweetest little family.❤❤❤❤

[@deborahhopper2682]

Beautiful tree! Layla is so growny she just tickles me and Zade is so adorable! Love Y’all! Love and Prayers Always

[@sharih5741]

Could be since they have their own trees in their rooms this year, the main tree has lost the “oomph” for Layla. So sweet. But you also can’t force the traditions.❤

[@laurie6332]

Yes you can. You tell a 5 year old that the whole family is going to decorate. Period. Layla at age 10, age 15, is not going to be so "cute" if she has control now.

[@rachaelhart363]

You are the sweetest mum and dad ever 😊

[@TrishRyan-ey8go]

You guys have so much love to give a kid get one 4-9 years old out of foster care and show them they too are loved!🥰 think about it your family has so much love!

[@amyworrell9563]

I might sound negative, but that party was over the top. And the friends of yours’ kids won’t feel any more loved just because their parents threw them a ridiculously extravagant birthday party. I enjoy seeing more of your families in your vlogs than other people.

[@suestephan3255]

@@amyworrell9563 it was extravagant but the little ones loved it and felt special.

[@margosurrell9953]

See it was the first birthday wst bdays are always very special for mine lil one im hoping to go all out over the top cause i was told for years i couldnt have kids and 13 years later we had our first and only so her first is gonna be over the top

[@hannahsmiles4222]

not really, we went all out for my son's 1st birthday, jumping castle, petting zoo, fully catered. why? because he was an IVF baby after losing 4 babies prior, he arrived 6 weeks early and had some health issues afterwards. being a mum was always my dream and I was finally a mum, so I wanted to celebrate it in a big way because he is my whole world. Will he remember? nope he sure won't, and probably won't really understand just how much that milestone meant to me. But I sure will, and I'll have those memories for the rest of my life. Everyone's reason behind what they do is different, and might not be what you understand.

[@charlichad07]

So sweet to see you all enjoying each other and the blessing of children the Lord gave. The house is cozy and pretty! Very tender seeing Evan's heart over Layla. It's true. ❤

[@melodytaylor3472]

My kids are all out of the house and now in different states, so we barely have a Christmas with all the kids and grandkids, it's hard because I love traditions. Make those memories and as they grow make different family traditions to adapt to your situation. Love your family!

[@danahenderson3742]

1st bday parties are for the mama’s, not the babies. She might be able to book some parties if she is interested in that. It was beautiful, extravagant, PINK AND PINK! Love the pink punch, pink macarons, the pink balloon bow. I loved it all. I feel like it’s their business, their dollar(dollars) If mama is happy and made the memories she wanted to make , it’s all good!

[@alicia7679]

Yall are the cutest!!! Sometimes I don’t ask I just say hey we are all doing this, let’s go… do that for decorating.

[@annetteprobert2640]

Tree looks great! So fun putting up the lights with Zade. 😊 Consider putting the tree in front of the mirror if you are not happy with where the white chairs are. Then you can put the chairs closer to fireplace.

[@TheEricksonGang]

Wow what a Vlog! I enjoyed you all getting a tree together and bringing it home & setting it up. The kids are so adorable! Thanks for sharing!

[@littlemountainhomestead]

Oh my gosh the part about decorating for Christmas and Layla wanting to do her own thing…brought tears to my eyes. My kids are grown with their own kids now, but here’s the thing - Layla is going to come back to the sentimentality of it all, I promise you! She’s just at an age where she’s learning her independence but it won’t be long before she is loving this part of her life and doing all the Christmas things with her family!! Hang in there guys 🎄💕

[@araborn38]

Yalls kids are the cutest kids!!!! They have the best expressions. I love watching them

[@martivanravenswaay-waddell6810]

It's been a while since I've seen the family -- ohmygoodness the kids have grown UP!!!! Love seeing you guys!!!!❤❤❤❤

[@hannahglenny205]

I’ve never seen Carlin and Evan so affectionate and I love it!!!!! What a great video ❤

[@MelissaD80]

Our kiddos are 21 & 23 (we don’t have grandchildren yet) and I put the tree up with lights and they STILL come decorate it for me and take silly pictures with hot cocoa! Don’t worry Evan, keep doing what you’re doing and they’ll always be around! I promise! 🎄 ♥️

[@ValerieNewcomb-n2b]

This has been my hardest year of parenting! My son graduated this year from High School and I’ve cried more this year than I did from my High School breakup. 😂 Love all these moments with them. Big and small! They grow so fast! ❤️

[@marysayre7142]

They really do. My daughter also graduated high school this year and now she's in college and living at the dorms. I miss her like crazy

[@jnbond]

“TN lost end of convo” Evan had me busting out😂😂😂

[@TrishRyan-ey8go]

Beautiful blessed family so full of love❤❤❤

[@louisianagreatgrandma650]

That party was a little ridiculous for a 1 yr old. 🤦‍♀️

[@dawnjohnson4303]

No it wasnt

[@chinaalia3]

Time flys. My baby boy is now 18, up at college and EMT. My daughter is 16, HS junior and use to "love me, lol". At the end of the day you just remember they will always need you even from afar. Just hold on to every memory. I still cry because I have to let them be. But, when they need mom I know immediately. They grow up fast, but in my heart they are still my babies.

[@LAnnMcK]

I've had good years and bad years about older kids decorating the tree. However, because it is a family tradition, we have always said you have to help a little. Yes, we enforced it, even if that meant they helped put on candy canes and their ornmaments with their names on them only. I'm talking about our 14-17 year old sons. Thankfully, my husband agreed that some things you do as a family. I think it's up to the parents to set the tone, and figure out what you want to stick with when it comes to family traditions and children participating.

[@melissam.8838]

Agree!! I can’t imagine having let my 4 year old (who is now 21) tell me she wasn’t going to help decorate the tree, and just letting her have her way.. that is not about them growing up, in my opinion. It’s her not being made to do something that she just didn’t want to do. She already has a tree in her room and they got GIFTS under them.. why would she even care about the main tree.. Wow.. I’ve always loved this family but I’m kinda shocked by the parenting of Layla. This video just seemed different. 😢

[@paulaheflin75]

You are so funny and you literally bring life to your post

[@danielleelias685]

So cute to see how excited Layla and Zade were to see everything. But wow who in the world can afford all this and go all out for a 1 year old. I mean it looks beautiful and so much fun, but I don't think the 1 year old really cares or will remember any of it. All for show I guess. But I love love watching the kids's excitement and happiness, they are so so very precious.

[@kimmyclark1372]

That party was so pretty … and it looked so fun. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of seeing y’all hang out with Zach and Whitney. Y’all are teaching and showing them how to love each other and all the things. The cousin vibe is so dope! Layla’s outfits match her personality for sure. But why did y’all make my eyes sweat a little with the parent moment…😪😪♥️ It’s so sweet and y’all were feeling all the daddy/mommy feels.

[@megandrynan6080]

You all are so sweet. Have a wonderful Christmas. 🎄 💖

[@janetkt-ut]

None of us are perfect!! 😅 Love that comment. Your family is so cute. God Bless you. 🙏🏻

[@mummatrinz3530]

Please drop a reel this week with the Evan and Travis duet from last year. The tree shopping has me in the mood 🙏

[@ericaaubie860]

Layla's jacket is so cute.

[@cynthiaburns5071]

I saw the Christmas trees in the kids room on your Instagram. I thought it was the cutest thing! Yes the kids do grow up. Wait until your son says"Mom I am getting so old." I told him what does that make me!!! LOL!!! Your home is decorated beautifully! Thanks once again for sharing oh I forgot you have to get out your oranges that you made years ago. I loved them the most!

[@EllianaNoelle]

So cool that you went to Georgia! I live in Georgia it would’ve been so cool to see yall! I hope you enjoyed your trip

[@judyramirez6975]

Your kids are precious! Please keep them grounded as to not grow up expecting parties like that....love you guys!

[@Disneymom28]

Why is everything, bro, brothers, brother, Bruh ? Yeah that party was little over the top .

[@jerrilynhenson9024]

Habit…. But I get it. I despised when the fad was every other word was “like”. 😱

[@robertaskversky1482]

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL OF YOU🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@davidjillraines7114]

One of ours was very independent at a young age. It was great but frustrating at the same time. Now that she is an adult it has made her a better person.

[@brendacase2975]

Kids are getting so big,I enjoy your videos.

[@marilynfdavis891]

Love your vlogs & being included in a glimpse of your family life. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. 💜✝️🦃

[@janieadames8453]

Yall always have me laughing. Thx for sharing yourself with us. 😊

[@JulieMelberg]

You all are adorable. Enjoy even the bumps!

[@alycecline5053]

Some times you just need to do as a family. I tell my kids just do it for Mom. We do so much for them, they can do this for Mom whether it's decorating a tree or taking a picture sometimes my kids don't want to but we do so much for our kids at least they can do the traditions that we like to do.

[@rebekkalc]

Best advice for the kids growing up is, appreciate the memories and experiences that each age offers, and explain why certain traditions mean what they do to you as parents

[@dianeford7179]

Where is Izzy? Haven’t seen in a while. The kids are adorable 🥰

[@jasper63689]

We have a birthday party each year but keep it a minimum, cake gifts and a few games.

[@cbpaddingtonbear2606]

That's all children need. That party was for the parents not the one year old.

[@indiagatewood1296]

All we do is cake and let the kids run around the yard! Kids birthday parties have gotten ridiculous!!!!

[@araborn38]

And would you want somebody telling you what you should’ve done for your kid’s bday party no! They can have whatever kind of party they want

[@araborn38]

@@cbpaddingtonbear2606who cares what you do

[@bluehearts2012]

I thought that maybe Layla didn’t want to decorate the living room tree b/c she already decorated the tree in her room that she probably loves! Great vlog as always guys!!

[@nicolewalter4871]

They absolutely don’t tell you that the hardest part of parenting is the letting go. They’re so dependent on you the first year and you think it should be that way forever. With each new phase, parents have no choice but to let go little by little. Enjoy every moment with them. Before you know it, they’ll be a senior in high school like my son and going off to college.

[@victoriahorton4166]

Please put the tree in front of the window, I love it... love it...❤❤ ...

[@tanyastyer7283]

LOVE LOVE LOVE these guys!! Can you imagine a world where everyone is like this.? ❤❤

[@daniellerose1114]

That would be awesome!

[@MargueriteNeely]

Y'all Christmas decorations are so cozy and cute!!!! Layla is getting so old!!!

[@pennycunningham-mb6yg]

If they have trees in their rooms, that might be why they’re not as excited about the big tree!

[@meganwhite1415]

Next year try decorating the main tree before doing their bedroom trees. The excitement wore off a little. They'll be excited to do the first tree of the year and then still be excited to do the trees in their bedrooms :)

[@pamelaschneider4220]

I just love you y’all

[@JackieKing-k7e]

You guys are the best , Evan is so funny love watching your videos

[@jeanr502]

Please please please Evan, make a Christmas Song video this year with Travis!!!!! ❤

[@kerrylewisRN]

I watched her birthday party last week. It was so sweet.

[@ArthurBadger-ms8xx]

Happy Thanksgiving too your family. Blessings to you all.

[@unapologeticallyromel7096]

Beautiful family love your channel

[@carlavision6143]

Evan and Carlin, thanks for the laughs! Really enjoyed your video. Looks like Layla and Zade enjoyed the birthday party as well as y'all. And looks like y'all had fun getting a real Christmas 🎄! Love your lights and all your Christmas decorations! Love y'all and God Bless!❤️ Wishing y'all a very Happy Thanksgiving too!

[@vnabors1]

As a Christian, we know that there is a fine line between “independent” and “obstinate”, just a warning. When kids, especially really young kids, are allowed to “choose” everything instead of a parent telling them what they will do, then who is parenting? The child or the adult? Distraction to get rid of an attitude is not addressing the attitude. The Bible teaches how to correct an “attitude” because it will carry over into more “obstinate” behaviors and eventually “rebellion”. It’s not cute now and it’s definitely not cute when they are older. I would have told Layla that we are going to decorate the tree and we are going to have a good attitude about it and that’s what’s going to happen. Kids will get the message that the attitude isn’t going to be tolerated by mom and dad and therefore if I want to have a good evening, I’d better change it. If they don’t, there needs to be punishment (you are going to sit and watch without talking; you will go to bed for the night, etc until your attitude changes). I guarantee their attitude will change. If it doesn’t, you have a strong willed child and better learn how to break the will before it breaks you. My kids are 29, 35, 36, and 37. Trust me on this.

[@daninepowell3053]

My kids are 22 & 14, Christmas just isn’t the same when they get older, so enjoy it while it lasts 😢

[@erinlyon1554]

Oh boy I remember this stage of the game with my boys when they hit 5 it was over, they no longer needed mom to pick out their clothes, they had an opinion on their shoes. We adopted our daughter when she was 14 but we knew her since she was in Kindergarten with our older son so we had 3 teenagers at once so as you can imagine that was fun lol. Prayers to yall for strong little girls don’t dim her light

[@RJ-ir5ws]

I am anticipating another awesome Christmas song by Evan and Travis this year.

[@janeheath5329]

I’m hoping that they do this year too. Their harmonies were great. I might be wrong but I think underneath his bubbly personality he is quite shy. Let’s hope Evan sees our comments & decides to do a Christmas song with Travis. They both have great voices. In one of their recent vlogs Evan mentioned choir practice that he really enjoys. I don’t think he realises how good his voice is. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that he reads our comments 🤞❤️

[@delorismcnair1355]

I only watch this channel because of Evan 😂 this dude is so funny 😅

[@terri-annemcsweeney3451]

I used to say about my four year old daughter that being assertive and independent was great in a woman but not in a four year old. She grew up, turned 25 and is even more assertive and independent. She is getting married next year and I didn’t get a say in ANY part of the decision making…now that makes a parent extremely sad and very despondent. I now have to pay the consequences of allowing my little girl grow up too quick. Please learn something from my situation and tell her what to do and be her parent, not so much of a friend 🥺 GOOD LUCK💗🇦🇺

[@elisabeththolo6456]

love the Stewart's. cutest familiy!! :)

[@Adri-oj3yt]

Love the music in the background ❤

[@terrinew9474]

I loved tbe birthday party it was really pretty. Go Dawgs sorry Evan & Carlin I'm originally from Georgia live in florida. Love your Cristmas decorations and the trees in Layal and Zades rooms are precious. Really good video. I'm goihg to he positive about this, times change, this isn't the past it's now and the future. However a parent wanrs to have a birthday party for a child is their business.

[@jukes243]

Matching pj's but Evan was the only one wearing them. lol You're a good sport, Evan. I would love to have a spouse as upbeat as you. Love the clothes you choose for Layla and Zade, Carlin. They always look so stylish and cute. I felt the sting of my daughter growing up when she turned 14. So long ago now. Keep kissing and hugging you two. MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

[@suestephan3255]

@@jukes243 Evan is a good sport and I love his excitement. Some guys put the nix on family matching pajamas.

[@kimsmith3223]

I wish I had ur excitement for Christmas. ❤❤❤

[@sarahscharber5559]

With girls, between ages 9 to 13, it starts in girls-when they become pre-teens. It's tough on our "Momma" hearts, and "parent" hearts. I raised a girl, so l feel you all's pain😢❤.

[@loridill4683]

Evan dancing was funny. Go Evan.

[@joannepiatte4026]

Some families go all out for birthday parties. I just took my son to Chuck E. Cheese's. Of course it was 34 years ago.

[@MilindaMcCall]

Mine too 31 years ago and again 22 years ago for his birthdays! He was happy and loved ‘em! 🥹🥹🥹❤

[@Terisue-l7e]

You, clearly, had a better sense of yourself, your child's needs, and the world at large. This is really horrendous.

[@cbpaddingtonbear2606]

This is ridiculously over the top and not for your child for the parents to flex. A one year old would be happier at Chuck E. Cheese.

[@TifJones-p8s]

My son's eldest daughter at 12 yrs old went for her first ever non family member sleep over last weekend - she has a phone for when she is out (walking to Nana's one street over and walking to school 4 streets over etc) and she forgot to charge it so when she did not answer her phone my son, her farther when over to her friend house to check on her - she was two streets over from their house - Dad standing in the door saying please charge you phone so I can contact you - he was a shocker for this as a teenager so I laughed and said oh the payback coming your way - remember all the things I worried about you times it by 3 as that is how many grandbabies you have given me

[@cjohnson3550]

Such a fun time!!😊

[@altheagochenour6821]

The tree is beautiful with just the lights🤗

[@DanaQuinn88]

Love ya'll. Please quit saying bro.

[@mindyhein9186]

And , what was the count for “oh my word”?!

[@2110289707]

Can we have an "oh my word" counter please. I couldn't stand it after 2 min 😂

[@wacky409.]

Such a sweet video thanks for sharing your life with us l

[@grettaappleby6332]

Happy thanksgiving🦃

[@MadMaxine1979]

They want to be surprised?? I think they're smart by conning you out of them helping 🤣🤣