AOP: What made the Auburn-Opelika community feel like home for your family?
Julie: Auburn’s Southern charm is what made it feel like home for us. There’s a real meaning behind the phrase “Auburn family,” and it’s something you don’t fully understand until you experience it. From the beginning, we were surrounded by people who welcomed us in and became meaningful parts of our lives. Over time, those friendships turned into a true sense of community and belonging. Once we felt rooted here, staying just made sense—it became clear this was where we were meant to build our life.
AOP: Your journey to motherhood included both loss and unexpected blessings. How has that shaped your perspective as a mom?
Julie: Motherhood for me has been shaped by both heartbreak and incredible joy. My husband and I struggled to conceive for over three years, and when we finally got pregnant, we were so hopeful. At an OB appointment we were told there was no heartbeat, and it was devastating. It changed my perspective in ways I never expected and made me question if motherhood was meant for me.
Then, just before our anniversary in 2016, we found out we were expecting Ava. She arrived in 2017 and completely changed our world. A few years later, we were unexpectedly blessed with Stella in 2022. Walking through both loss and unexpected blessings has given me a deep appreciation for every stage of motherhood. It’s taught me patience, resilience, and not to take a single moment for granted. I feel more grounded and compassionate because of that journey.
AOP: What led you to transition from working full-time to becoming a stay-at-home and homeschooling mom?
Julie: It became a very easy choice once I had the opportunity. I know not every family has that option, and I don’t take it for granted. When it was just Ava, I could balance both worlds—I had a flexible job that allowed me to bring her along or work from home. But once Stella was born, and I was already homeschooling Ava while working full-time, it became a lot to juggle.
I managed it for a while, but I eventually realized that no paycheck felt more valuable than being present during these years. My children needed me more than I needed any job, so when the choice came, I chose to fully invest in them and their education.
AOP: What does a typical day look like for your family with homeschooling and life on Halawakee Creek?
Julie: Our days revolve around nature, learning, and being together. Living on Halawakee Creek allows us to slow down and enjoy the outdoors right from the start of the day. I’m a big birder, so most mornings begin with coffee outside, listening and watching for birds. The girls often join me, and it naturally turns into little lessons.
After breakfast, we move into our homeschool subjects and usually include art or crafts. I try to keep learning hands-on and engaging. We spend time outside almost every day—walking trails, visiting the creek, gardening, or just exploring.
We also value our homeschool community and make time to meet with other families. It’s been such a gift to connect with people who share similar values and lifestyles, and it gives both kids and parents the chance to build meaningful relationships.
AOP: How has your family adjusted to Ava’s diagnosis with type 1 diabetes, and what has that journey taught you?
Julie: Ava’s diagnosis was completely unexpected and changed our lives overnight. While we were somewhat familiar with type 1 diabetes, we quickly realized how much we didn’t know. Even simple things like meals became a process of monitoring and adjusting.
There was definitely an adjustment period for all of us. Balancing her care alongside Stella’s needs can still be challenging, but it has become part of our daily life, and we continue to learn as we go.
This journey has taught me to trust my instincts and advocate for my child. It’s also shown me how hard it is to watch your child go through something you can’t fix—and how your strength becomes part of theirs. More than anything, it’s given me a deeper sense of compassion. You never really understand what someone is carrying until you walk through it yourself.
AOP: With a six-year age gap, what is the dynamic like between Ava and Stella?
Julie: We jokingly call Ava “Stella’s little momma” because she’s always been so nurturing and protective. She keeps a watchful eye on Stella and is always looking out for her. Stella definitely knows that too—if Mom or Dad says no, Ava is usually her next stop.
Even with the age gap, they share such a special bond. Of course, they have their moments, but they are incredibly close.
Rapid Fire:
- Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise
- Homemade or takeout? Homemade
- Planner or go-with-the-flow? Planner
- Woods or water? Woods
- Crafting or baking? Crafting
The Downs family—high school sweethearts Wesley and Julie, along with their daughters Ava (9) and Stella (3)—have built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. Passionate fans of Auburn University, they enjoy everything the area has to offer, especially time spent outdoors exploring local trails and parks. In June 2024, Ava was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, a life-changing moment that has shaped their family’s daily rhythms and perspective. The girls are homeschooled, and much of their life centers around learning, nature, and togetherness.
Author: Staff
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