Enjoying the Small Things

Enjoying the Small Things

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Happy *Love* Day.

February 14, 2010 By Kelle

Hallmark or not, we love love. And any excuse to celebrate it more than it’s already celebrated around here…we’re so on it.

Not to mention, I like pink.

So, the girls look like a pepto bismol ad today…

And I, a bit Shakespearean-ly ruffled.

Oh, Daddy we miss you.


(this was taken the day I found out I was pregnant with Nella)

You are the best Valentine ever. And an even better daddy.

We made you a card today.




Celebrating Love.

…and 5 Things I’m totally in love with today:

* The way Nella can’t decide if she’d rather gaze into my eyes or eat, so she alternates sucking for a bit with pulling away and staring at me. Cutest Ever.

* Going out to breakfast and having an old man walk over to tell me, with a little wink, how beautiful my babies are…and thinking for a minute that he was, most certainly, my grandpa.

* Finding one of my favorite lipsticks in the pocket of a pair of pre-baby jeans.

* Dancing with Lainey in the living room to Kanye West, catching a glimpse of my ‘moves’ in the mirror and laughing hysterically at just how stupid I look dancing alone. I think I forgot how to dance.

* Deciding not to cancel the “Welcome Home, Daddy” party we had planned last night…and still celebrating with friends we love dearly (Thank you, Dave)

Happy Valentine’s Day.
Now, go cut some hearts.

If you leave a comment…tell me three things you’re loving today, and I’ll publish a couple.
xoxo ~k

Filed Under: Enjoying, Holiday, Mamahood 198 Comments

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Comments

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  1. Mary says

    February 14, 2010 at 8:52 pm

    Happy Valentines Day!!
    I love:
    * the man who has stood by my side through every devastation and celebration that 22 years of life together brings.
    * I love my very special 17 year old daughter who sits next to me unable to see me, talk to me or hug me and yet with one smile she loves me for an eternity. I am honored to be her mother.
    * I LOVE what God does with a life lived on the road less taken.
    Bonus Love * Your beautiful words and pictures Kelle that tell the world how much love a mother’s heart truly contains.

    Reply
  2. Poppa says

    February 14, 2010 at 8:53 pm

    Loving…
    ONE: That wonderful feeling of morning after night, well after sick, happy after sad, together after apart, found after lost, fixed after broken, full after empty.
    TWO: Even the thought, let alone the anticipation, that somewhere under the cold snow and frozed soil here in Michigan lie all of spring’s crocusses and tulips and they are on their way with bright blossoms–yes, they are on their way.
    THREE: Chubby cheeked, pink toed, lap fitting, snuggle ready babies.
    That is enough to light my fire tonight. Happy Valentines Day, southern sweeties! I love you!

    Reply
  3. NaomiO says

    February 14, 2010 at 8:59 pm

    Somebody sent me the link to your blog after you published Nella’s beautiful birth story. By the end of it, I was sobbing so hard that me shirt was soaked and I could hardly breath. Your writing and photos are beautiful. But more beautiful is how evident your love for your girls shows. I have 2 boys. I love them so much I actually have chest pains some times. I have thought of your family almost every waking moment… every time I look at my babies, I think of yours. Everytime I remember my deliveries, I think of yours.

    I have nothing profound to say. But I think of you and your family so often. I pray for you. I thank God that you are blessed and that your babies are so blessed to have a mama that loves them so much. And then I go love my babies some more…

    Happy Valentines Day to you and your beautiful girls!

    Reply
  4. Dorothy says

    February 14, 2010 at 8:59 pm

    * A beautiful daughter who is off living her life and makin me proud everyday

    * My self-proclaimed momma’s boy who is snuggling with me on the couch watchin the olympics.

    * My new camera!!! Thanks Kelle 🙂

    Reply
  5. Bethany says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:04 pm

    Happy Valentine’s Day! I love the pink shoes!

    Today …

    *I’m loving that my sister is on her way to labor and delivery to have my niece. It is giving me lots of memories of the last time I was at labor and delivery … to give birth to my daughter, Payton — my very own princess with Down syndrome. Well, one of them at least. 🙂

    *I’m loving the lazy day we have had so far. Peace in my house while my girls slept and me curled up on the couch with my son watching a movie.

    *I’m loving reading about you and sweet Nella … the same place I was in 4 years ago.

    Reply
  6. martine says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:06 pm

    just three? phew ummm..

    Watching my sunshine jump from ten foot ramps on his bmx looking soo happy and free!

    Looking into my baby daughters eyes and seing her future.

    The new ed vino i found and am looking forward too tasting lol…

    keep inspiring lovely lady x

    Reply
  7. martine says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:06 pm

    just three? phew ummm..

    Watching my sunshine jump from ten foot ramps on his bmx looking soo happy and free!

    Looking into my baby daughters eyes and seing her future.

    The new ed vino i found and am looking forward too tasting lol…

    keep inspiring lovely lady x

    Reply
  8. Jessica @ Dairy Free Betty says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:12 pm

    Happy Valentines Day!!
    3 Things I’m loving today –
    #1-The sun is SHINING – which made Valentines day soo much better! My hunny and I went for a run, cleaned up the back yard, played with the dog… so far it’s been a beautiful day!

    #2-We didn’t buy into the Valentines Day thing, yet set a limit of $10 – The gifts I recieved touched my heart! – A CD full of songs that remind him of me… a book on kindness and coupons for some fun stuff 😉

    #3-That I am so lucky to be with such a gentle loving man! This time next year we will be saying our vows on a beach in Mexico and I’m so excited to spend my life with him… he’s my soul mate!!!

    xo lots of love,
    Jessica

    Reply
  9. Anonymous says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:15 pm

    Hi Kelle!

    Happy Valentine’s Day!

    I’m totally in love with…

    * Those little pink shoes. Pink shoes and pink icing are two things that make life fun.

    * My sweet friend Anne. Who told me I’m very special to her. Awww…

    * My husband. Well, maybe I’m not always totally in love with him, but he is wonderful, and my best friend in the world. Ha!

    Have a fun, pink, loving day!

    Linda in New Zealand.

    Reply
  10. Bernadette Wise says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:22 pm

    Thank you for sharing your beautiful story I love seeing your beautiful photographs you and your family are truely inspiring
    3 things i’m loving today…
    1. the love of my life my princess fairy Lily who I love more than breathe and air
    2. cooking for my family and sharing funny stories about what our girls have been doing
    3. hugs and kisses with my man every day

    Reply
  11. Janet O'B says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:26 pm

    A girlfriend sent me the link to Nella’s birthday story last week. I wanted to say thank you so much for sharing your story; I was so touched and appreciated your honesty. You are a great writer and I have enjoyed reading your blog ever since. I am also a mom of 2 girls-my 3 yr old shares Nella’s birthday and I have a 4 month old as well. When I read your story it was just so full of love and made me feel so lucky to be a mama. Thanks to you my 2 sweet girls have got some extra hugs and kisses and a mama who is able to find a little bit more patience for them when things get a little crazy.

    Reply
  12. Lisa Lap says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:27 pm

    3 things I’m loving today:
    1) some “me” time to read your inspiring blog….I am praying for you and your family every day…sending you a hug right now!!
    2) beautiful music, beautiful weather (finally!), beautiful smiles
    3) my hubby, my kids, my family and friends, and all the people that make up my world 🙂

    Reply
  13. Brit Girl says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:29 pm

    Just had to check back and was delighted to discover a new post – yay! – and a fabulous pink one at that! My love list:

    1. Wearing out the living room carpet by constantly dancing to Paolo Nutini’s Sunny Side Up album! C loves track six and demands we all get up and boogie with her!

    2. C naming colours – and the way she pronounces ‘orange’ in a funny French accent!

    3. Knowing my parents are coming to visit next week.

    Hope you got our little parcel of love! Have a good week. It will probably fly by and Brett will be back before you know it. It must be hard when he’s away but you are rocking it out as usual!

    Happy Valentine’s Day, Kelle!

    Reply
  14. Katie says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:30 pm

    Today I love:

    That it is my twins’ first Valentine’s Day and the first day they tried rice cereal!!

    That my husband made me the sweetest, rhyming card that included photoshopped pictures of my son driving a car with a rose in his “teeth.”

    That my sister, brother-in-law and neice came over for pink, heart-shaped pancakes for breakfast

    Happy Valentine’s Day!!!

    Reply
  15. Vonda says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:31 pm

    Happy Valentine’s Day to you too!! And if you think having that sweet bunny Angel suck and then stop and stare at you is cute, just wait till she sucks, stops, and then the corners of her mouth go up in a smile as she stares at you. It will melt your heart right out of your chest.

    Reply
  16. Autumn says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:33 pm

    A couple of my friends sent me a link to Nella’s beautiful birth story (I cried like a little baby) and now I’m totally hooked reading your blog. You have such a beautiful life and you’re so very talented in everything you do, your writing, your painting, your photography, being a wonderful Mommy. I have quite a bit in common with you… my 1st daughter was born 5/31/07… just a couple of weeks younger than your precious Lainey… and my second will be arriving via c-section in 3 short days, 2/17/10–> so 3 things I’m loving today…
    ~Spending the last precious days alone with my daughter.
    ~My big pregnant belly, because in 3 short days I won’t have it anymore
    ~My loving family & friends.

    Thanks for being you, you have made me realize that the small things in life really are what matter most.

    Reply
  17. Geerts says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:34 pm

    One: My beautiful 20 month old son!

    Two: the wonderful family dinner we have planned for tonight

    Three: living in Canada because its family day tomorrow meaning its a long weekend, which means spending more time with my wonderful son before heading back to the daily grind of the week.

    Reply
  18. Sarah says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:35 pm

    So beautiful! I just love your blog and look forward to new ones with more pics of your adorable girls!!!
    Three things I am in love with today –
    The way my children look at each other.
    How good it feels to come home and just be.
    The smell of my baby boys hair.

    So many other things but those are the top three at this moment.

    Reply
  19. Vonda says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:35 pm

    Oh and I was gazing at Nella and forgot my 3 things:

    I love the fact having a child with Down syndrome is one of the best things that ever happened to me, even though I thought my world had ended when he was born.

    I love the fact that my 3 daughters will grow up with a compassion and understanding for children with disabilities and aren’t afraid of their differences, but embrace the chance to be their friend.

    I love how my husband never cried one tear when Noah was born and how he loves him more than anything. It was his positiveness when Noah was born that got me through those first 3 months. And he has never cried a tear since.

    Reply
  20. Roan says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:38 pm

    Things I am loving today:
    1: Your blog. I am not sure how I found it today…..I am resting in bed blog-hopping, and I found your beautiful birth story. Beautiful! I have just spent the last hour reading many of your previous posts. You are a very talented writer, and an incredible photographer. Wow.
    2. I ran 12 miles this morning. Before church.
    3. My faithful, loving husband who is at work for a 36 hour “shift”–without sleep–to provide for me and our 5 precious children. Before he went in this morning, we exchanged starbucks coffee cups. Great minds think alike! Ha!

    So glad I found your blog. I am looking forward to reading your journey.

    Reply
  21. Jorie says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:38 pm

    You are one strong woman…thank you for continuing your words of love and hope.

    LOVE your post, as usual.

    LOVE waking up to my little girl saying “love you, love you, love you” over the monitor at 6am

    LOVE snuggling with my hubby, 3.5 year old son and 17 month old daughter in our queen sized bed this morning watching cartoons

    The list could go on, as you already know having two angels of your own…Happy Valentine’s Day!

    Reply
  22. Natalie says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:38 pm

    1. Special reunions like today with my little brother who I had not seen since he was a baby!

    2. Home made Valentines

    3. Beautiful creative little minds and hands that make those crafts!

    Reply
  23. LittlePaintedPolkaDots says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:39 pm

    1) I love that we all celebrate love differently and we all have different “loves” to celebrate.

    2) I love my boyfriend…no wait! MY FIANCE’! He proposed yesterday! (Of course, I said yes!)

    3) I love that you posted today and gave me a chance to reflect even further on the things I love.

    Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your lovely family.

    Reply
  24. Meghan says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:43 pm

    I ♥ your blog! I read it a few days ago on the recommendation of one of my facebook friends and I’ve been hooked ever since. You are on my google reader list and I read every new post! Thank you for sharing your story, your photos and your lovely writing.

    3 things I LOVE:
    1. My 2 year old son, Diego (whom I LOVE with every piece of me), just learned how to give butterfly kisses and wants to give them to me constantly.
    2. My hard working husband who works hour after hour so I can stay home with our son.
    3. My son’s valentine shirt that says “My Mommy is my Valentine”

    Reply
  25. The Bing's says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:45 pm

    what beautiful pictures or your cute girls! Looks like a fun Valentines day!! I really have been enjoying reading you blog, I only wish i knew about it sooner! Keep the posts coming!

    Three things I love today…

    1. surprising my husband with pink heart shaped pancakes this morning.
    2. Getting to see my nieces and nephew today.
    3. Wearing pink for Valentines Day… My husband chose to wear a pink tie today and I didn’t even have to make him 🙂

    Reply
  26. Amz says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:47 pm

    Happy Valentines, your girls ARE beautiful <3

    3 things I am loving today:

    My Mr 2 patting Mr 3 weeks head and saying “I love my thing”

    Mr 3 weeks making noises while he is breastfeeding that tell me he is enjoying it so much, then nodding off, only to wake up seconds later and panic that hes lost his boobie, and to find it again and resume his cute wee noises.

    Mr 5 telling me he will remember to bring home his reading books and eat all of his lunch, because it will make me happy and I am his best friend.

    I am so blessed 😀

    Reply
  27. Jewllori by Lori says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:50 pm

    Again, we also love to love love!! haha!

    Today I ESPECIALLY love :

    1). Thinking and dreaming of meeting my baby in T minus 18 days.

    2). Enjoying a little snuggle time in mommy and daddy’s bed with my two little bears.

    3). Sinfully enjoying every bit of chocolate I’ve been given today, and occasionally sharing some with whoever asks, with a kiss as payment of course 😉

    Enjoy your day!

    Reply
  28. Anonymous says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:52 pm

    * Your beautiful new baby girl.

    * My amazing box of love day chocolates.

    * American Pie by John Mclean.

    Have a fantastic Love Day.

    Reply
  29. Anonymous says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:52 pm

    My three things:

    1. The deligthful look on my daughter’s face this morning when I let her share a chocolate-dipped strawberry my husband gave me for Valentine’s Day. *Bonus love is the way she bit into the chcocolate and then surprisingly exclaiming “its a appwle!!” then looked again and said “Naw…it’s a GAWBERRY!!”

    2. My two older sons rushing into the kitchen after seeing her chocolate mouth and also devouring some of them messily.

    3. The wonder of my baby boy when I let him have just a teensy taste of the chocolate coating. (and the resulting huge grin that spread across his face a few seconds later!)

    I’m a new reader to your blog and I love it. I especially love the title. I’ve always heard the phrase “Don’t sweat the small stuff and it’s all small stuff,” however I like your take a little better. 🙂

    Love,
    Angela

    Reply
  30. Delilah Grace says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:52 pm

    *I am in love with my wonderful husband who couldn’t spend Valentines with us because he is in Iraq fighting for our freedom as well as others. I am so proud of him.

    *I am in love with my beautiful 7 month daughter, Delilah. She amazes me everyday. (She has Prader-Willi Syndrome.)

    *i am in love with the giggles coming from Delilah right now, as she stares at herself in a mirror. So cute!!

    I came across your blog from a fellow blogger. You are such an inspiration to me and many others. I enjoy your lovely writing and beautiful pictures. The love and happiness you have for your girls and life is infectious.

    Reply
  31. Sara says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:54 pm

    so Kelle, you’ve made me click out of my Google reader…out of lurkdom. I LOVE watching my girls sleep…the rise and fall of their chests choke me up more than
    I like to admit. I LOVE the feeling my camera gives me…it helps me recall and relive life…I LOVE to read about the lives of others…and learn from their stories…

    Reply
  32. The Super Seven says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:55 pm

    What a great Valentines post….makes me miss my 4 kiddies who went to Nanny’s for a sleepover last night….the pictures are just precious of the girls. I love Nella’s hat. I’m sure Daddy is melting over them where ever he is and wishing he had been home at your party last night. Life looks so full of fun at your house…..hmmm…..3 things today I’m loving….

    – I LOVE my family…the ones I live with, the ones close by and ones far away that I wish I could see more. No matter what happens in this life they are there for you through the good and the bad…..and with that I ESPECIALLY LOVE my kids…..all 5 of them more then I can ever explain. They are special and unique in so many ways. They were all sent to me for a reason and I’m glad to have a lifetime to spend with them as mine…it’s pretty sweet to have Daddy along with us for the ride!

    -I LOVE my Canon XTi today, your post about having your camera around all the time has made me want to capture more of life’s sweet and tender moments, and the wild ones too.

    -I would be lying if I didn’t admit that I was LOVING the Daytona 500 today…..people die when they find out I watch NASCAR but it has become a love in our house……

    Reply
  33. Karina @ The Vader Family says

    February 14, 2010 at 9:55 pm

    Happy Valentines Day!
    Your daughters are A.DO.RA.BLE!!!

    Today I’m loving a lot of things but here are my top 2:

    1.-The way my daughter sings everytime we turn the radio on when we are in the car.
    2.-This GORGEOUS weather! 77 degrees in Arizona.

    🙂

    Reply
  34. Issas Crazy World says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:02 pm

    You take amazing pictures. Truly.

    Happy V-Day to you and your beautiful girls.

    Mine: 1. My girls Morgan and Bailey and my tiny son Harrison. 2. My mom for flying out to spend the weekend with me, so I wouldn’t be alone on Valentine’s Day. 3. The movie Valentines Day, which I saw last night. It cracked me up.

    Reply
  35. Jeanne says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:10 pm

    If I have to limit it to ONLY three things… 🙂
    *My little baby took her first steps today (albeit behind a walker, but those count in my book!) I think that is enough to keep my heart warm for weeks!
    *Spending 10 minutes with my husband in between him coming home from work and him leaving to shoot some pictures for a magazine article and not holding any level of grumpiness about the situation. I got to keep the kids!
    *Looking out my window to an unexpected sunny day in winter. The sun is shining and the birds are chirping and the cats are prowling. Life is so great!

    Reply
  36. Amber says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:12 pm

    Happy Valentines day…the shoes are SO sweet 🙂

    My List:
    1: I took my son into the doctor today for pneumonia/double ear infection that isn’t getting better after being up with him all night. On the way home, we stopped for some chicken nuggets, and he was so tired and hungry, that he ate them with his eyes shut and his head lolling off to the side. I got it on tape…so I love unexpected moments 🙂

    2: Having our family together and celebrating love. I can’t imagine life without any one of them.

    3: I love the new inspiration I’ve found lately, and plan to use it to inspire others. 😉

    Reply
  37. Mommy Rachelle says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:12 pm

    A beautiful post and enjoyable photos.

    I love

    1. the way my son holds my head steady when he moves in to kiss my cheek.

    2. the way my daughter selflessly devotes herself to her brother (and to me)

    3. when my guy makes being snowed in a family vacation {and not reminiscent of The Shining}

    Reply
  38. Rebecca says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:12 pm

    Today I am loving many things… But here goes three…

    I loved waking up to my four year old son climbing all over daddy’s head begging for rice crispy squares for breakfast because it’s a special day and he wanted a special meal to start the day (being a pro negotiator at four-I am sure he’ll be a lawyer someday!)

    Secondly I loved the morning “date” I got with my awesome hubby… Breakfast at a greasy spoon a whole 50 feet from our front doorstep and an early bird movie (Valentines Day) while the grandparents were on kiddo duty!

    And finally coming the the door to my parents house to find my two year old daughter dancing hand in hand with her grandpa to his favourite jazz song… I swear I had a flash forward to her wedding day… (but happy that I’m in no rush for it to arrive)!

    PS
    Since discovering your blog I have passed along the site to dozens of other friends who also have fallen in love with reading the snippets of your life you share with us…
    Thank you!

    Happy Valentines Day!

    Reply
  39. Aggie says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:13 pm

    Leave it to you Kelle, to give us a game to play! You’re awesome! Well my 3 are easy…my 3 beautiful girls:
    1-Toni (almost 9)- and her determination to always get it her way no matter how much trouble she gets into…and her gorgeous blue eyes.
    2-Tia (almost 6)- and the way she’s in love with her daddy and how funny she thinks she is (and she IS!) Always cracking herself up…oh also her version of the robot…muahahahhaaaa!!
    3-Talia (my 5 month old treasure), and the way she looks for me, her nasty smelly but delicious toes. And her little breath that still smells like heaven a little bit…I am all about smelling her everywhere!!! The hubby thinks I’m phycho. 🙂
    Happy Valentines Day Kelle…and as always…God bless!!! <><

    Reply
  40. Proud Mommy Tara says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:14 pm

    Happy Valentine’s Day! What amazingly Pink pictures! I can’t get enough pink!

    Three things…here we go–

    ~I love the tiny screeches and smiles that instantly appear from my 2 babies when I get home from a long day of work.

    ~I love watching my little ones discovering something new–whether it be my baby girl fascinated by a blade of grass or my son discovering how to twirl my hair around his finger.

    ~I love the smell of old photographs and the warm feeling I get while looking at them- It’s incredible to see how my Grandmom held my Mother’s hand and I especially love the one of my Grandfather holding my Father and staring into his eyes at 4 weeks old.

    Wow, those are just a few! Could go on forever!

    Have an amazing day of love with those beautiful girls today!

    Tara

    Reply
  41. Lora says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:24 pm

    Happy Valentines Day Kelle! <3 Three things I LOVE…..
    1. My amazing husband who has given up so much of his life to become the father to my firstborn son; as well as an amazing father to our other two kiddos.
    2. My children, Ryan, my oldest,who has taught me so much about life and what is truly important. The doctors gave him 3 yrs to live and he has definitely outlived his prognosis! My daughter who is an amazing daughter and helper! She amazes us everyday. And last but not least, my baby (2 yr old) Joshie. 🙂
    3. My amazing parents who have also given up so much to help us raise Ryan and help him fight this hideous disease. They even built their home to accomodate his wheelchair and help me out so much. I have much to be thankful for!

    I think it’s amazing how many people you have touched through your blog. And people you’ve never even met! Your daughters and hubby are blessed to have you. :0)

    Reply
  42. Amber says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:26 pm

    great post.

    ever since I read Nella’s birth story I have been inspired to be a more loving mother. I love how you express your feelings through this blog and all the love you have for you girls. I am so happy to have found this blog.

    *I love the way my husbands comes up to me at random moments and kisses my neck and holds me close.
    *I love my daughter’s little feet.
    *I love how God blesses me each day with life, family and friends.

    you are amazing!!

    Reply
  43. Jolene - EverydayFoodie says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:27 pm

    Happy Valentine’s day to you and your family 🙂

    Reply
  44. Meg Baxter says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:28 pm

    I just found your blog and I’m enamoured. Yes, that’s Canadian spelling! 🙂

    1. My five-month-old daughter, Heidi London. She is my reason for being and when she cries, my heart is simultaneously pulled in a million directions at once, yet focussed so clearly on one thing: her.

    2. My soul mate, my husband, whose career as an Artillery Officer in the Canadian Forces has just brought our little family to the Canadian Prairies from the glorious West Coast of British Columbia. I will follow that man to the ends of the earth.

    3. My hometown of Vancouver, BC, and watching “home” on tv daily because of the Olympics. I am so proud to be a British Columbian, and I don’t know a more beautiful place on earth than BC.

    Reply
  45. Brittney says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:31 pm

    1. I love feeling my baby boy roll around in my womb and thinking about meeting him in a few short months.

    2. Random and spontaneous date nights with my husband, because I know they won’t be able to be random or spontaneous for much longer.

    3. My husband. In general. 🙂

    Reply
  46. Smartypants says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:34 pm

    I love your blog. Thanks for sharing. I love that my taxes are done and I can lounge on the couch shamelessly now. I love that the fire is lit in the fireplace and the s’mores stuff is ready to go…now I just need my husband to get home from work! xoxo

    Reply
  47. Bernie* says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:39 pm

    1) I love Valentine’s Day and the color red
    2) I love my girls, their guys, and my grandson
    3) and I love 2 fellow employees (the K-9 unit) – one (Rick) that is giving me his old refrigerator because mine died today – which I just discovered when I got home a bit ago – and the other one (Bill) that is going to help Rick deliver it tomorrow morning when I am at work.

    Thank you, Jesus*

    Reply
  48. littlebitsept09 says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:46 pm

    1. I love this blog. It’s lifts my soul! Thanks for letting others into your life!
    2. I love my boys. And I love how the 6 month old is the spitting image of his 27 year old daddy. I love it almost as much as it creeps me out.
    3. I love coming in from the cold day to a house as warm as you imagine a heart should be today!

    Reply
  49. KC says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:48 pm

    Happy *Love* day to you too, Kelle!

    3 things I’m loving today 🙂

    1~ Giving and receiving love…
    2~ Feeling the love energy of your blog: Admiring the beauty of your Nella, Lainey and your amazing photos. Reading your words and Poppa’s wise comments…
    3~ Being present and grateful, enjoying life moment by moment…

    “We live by two things – love and fear. Every choice, every thought, every action stems from one of these, and when your time comes, when you reach out – if you reach out – it’s love that will save you. Love will get you through everything.” Claire and Mia Fontaine

    Reply
  50. Pipsylou says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:49 pm

    I’m loving that, though I have lost 5 babies during various stages of pregnancy, I can still smile at the beauty that is my life.

    Reply
  51. Melanie says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:51 pm

    First I want to say how much I enjoy reading your blog! You are very inspirational whether or not you realize it in this moment.

    Things I’m LOVIN’

    1) My 3 beautiful daughters!

    2) The hubby who is playing N64 Mario Kart with our 5 yr old (yeah, we’re a little old school)!

    3) Mod Podge! I’ve been a little obsessed lately and am working on my second project of the weekend.

    Reply
  52. NeverEnoughTime says

    February 14, 2010 at 10:53 pm

    three things I love…

    *that I have a husband who loves me, loves me enough that I am privileged to stay home with our 5 children while he works so very hard to provide for us

    *For My God, whom without, I would not be going down a good path-His grace and love are more than I deserve

    *my family and friends that love me-even when I am very difficult-for me and are ok with my honesty and crazy life

    Reply
  53. blessingsandglory says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:01 pm

    New posts and pictures – that’s something to love!

    Today I’m loving:

    ::My family. My husband and three boys. A weekend away together. Snow, skiing, rosy cheeks, cozy fires, cuddling on the couch while reading stacks of books together and no distractions.

    ::I love being a mom. For as long as I can remember I wanted to be a mom. Yet if anyone had told me just how challenging, entertaining, heartbreaking, funny, overwhelming, lovely and precious this life is I wouldn’t have believed them. No way. But here I am – living the good life as a mommy to my three boys. A beautiful life that has been blessed with some tears, mostly laughter and an abundance of His grace.

    ::Sleep. That moment when the stars align and all three of my boys are asleep at.the.same.time. And the hope that maybe, just *maybe* my sweet baby boy will sleep for a couple of hours in a row. Because nothing says love like a well-rested {and therefore much happier} mama.

    And apparently I also *love* to write…

    ::Bonus love? I’m loving the playlist on your blog…it’s become a wonderful background {with a few songs in particular stepping into the foreground} to my days

    Reply
  54. Love Being a Nonny says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:01 pm

    Three things I love

    *being in the delivery room when my grandgirls (ages 27 months and two months)were born.

    *my husband of 35 years…so PROUD that i have been married that long.

    *the warmth of my gas logs on my back.

    Reply
  55. PunkRockChic says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:05 pm

    *Making dinner while my 17 month old arranges and rearranges the Keurig K cups on the floor. He gets that little bit of OCD from me, haha!
    *Finding a “Love” M&M’s on the table from my husband. Every single M&M is green, my favorite color <3
    *Taking a moment to snuggle on the couch with my little love bug and his best friend, our dog, Bear.

    Reply
  56. Ali C. says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:10 pm

    I love the way the rain feels in Africa, the way you’re soaked to the skin the minute you step outside, its tiny hands all over your face like a prayer.

    I love the smell of baby hair here, too. The dark, woody smell of cookfires and dirt and living on too little.

    Most of all I love watching a mama learn to love again after she’s been told her baby is cursed. I love being the one who gets to help put their lives together, gets to tell them there’s hope and future and love, love, love.

    Reply
  57. Nicole S says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:10 pm

    Three things . . .

    1 – a hand written Valentines card from my husband

    2 – spending the day at two different parks and watching my son love every minute of it

    3 – taking a special trip to the book store alone to pick out two books I can’t wait to dig into, one is on digital photography, someone encouraged me to learn a little more about my camera, and the other book “a million miles in a thousand years”

    I hope you and your girls have a very happy valentines day! xoxo

    Reply
  58. Hannah says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:11 pm

    First of all, I’ve fallen in love with your blog. Thank you for this glimpse into your life. 🙂

    Three things I am loving today:

    1) My husband not only bought me flowers, but also my 3 year old daughter– who is beyong delighted– and my grandmother, who is probably enjoying her last Valentine’s Day. I love that he thought to buy them for her, with no urging or hinting from me.

    2) Seeing the last remnants of snow from a few days ago, where we live in GEORGIA. And we are due to get a bit more tonight! I love it! I’m as a giddy as a kid!

    3) The fact that I am so excited about cooking a special Valentine’s dinner for our family of four tonight. It may not be a hot date with my hubby, but it’s more special than anything else I can imagine. And I have a great 3 year old helper who has been baking bread with me all afternoon in her little apron.

    Reply
  59. Anonymous says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:11 pm

    Today I am celebrating my love for…

    *my first valentine’s day as a wife! These past five months have held more joy and love than I could have ever imagined. I know that our life and future together is only going to get better.

    *my entirely too cute furbabies, who have been gobbling up snow and kisses all day!

    *my camera. i’m so excited to start capturing the hearts of my friends, family, and the world around me.

    -brittany-

    Reply
  60. Squirly Girls says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:19 pm

    I am loving the Lord for how He moves in amazing ways.

    I am loving my husband and how I thought I was whole before him but I didn’t know what whole was then.

    I am loving this site and how it has moved me to be a better mom.

    Reply
  61. P-nut says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:20 pm

    Happy Valentines Day Kelle, Lainey, Nella and Brett from afar!

    There are many things that I love, but today the things that captured my heart are:

    -watching my hubby cook me dinner, since our breastfed baby won’t take a bottle, we’re staying in 🙂

    -i don’t love that my 2 year old is sick but i DO LOVE all the extra cuddle time i got today 😉

    -loved loved coming home from the pharmacy and my 2 year old ran towards me and yelled “mommmmmmmy hooome”

    -love my family. love them so so much. love my when my 9 month old lights up when i enter a room. and inturn my heart melts and i can’t help but smile back at him.

    love your blogs kelle. you are so inspiring.

    Reply
  62. P-nut says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:25 pm

    ps. kelle, how do you look SO good after JUST having a baby and being a temp single mom with 2 little ones? are you not exhausted? im amazed that you are dressed and your kids are always dressed so cute! you are sooo beautiful! 3 weeks after my second was born i considered it an accomplishment not to be in my pj’s when my hubby came home from work!

    you are amazing!

    Reply
  63. Nicole says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:29 pm

    Well first off, I love that toothy little cheese LL is flashing making her card, and:

    -i love spending valentine’d day, in some cozy sweats, making homemade soup and carmelly monkey bread with chopped pecans….even though there was a fingertip casualty with those darn cutco knives.

    -i love spending my whole morning choosing which sewing and photography classes i want to take at the community college this summer.(and any tips on where a girl might score a good deal on a gently used DSLR camera would make my day)

    -and finally, i’m loving enjoying a nice bottle of dark beer on the couch..with my finger all bandaged up and sealed with a kiss by my hero, next to me with his Sunday paper. Life is good.

    Happy Valentine’s Day Hampton Gals!!!!

    –

    Reply
  64. ashalily says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:31 pm

    1) Smelling my son’s hair after two long days of being away from him!

    2) Sleeping in with my husband this morning

    3)Hearing the words “Mommy, play?”

    Reply
  65. From the Kitchen says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:31 pm

    1. The fact that my parents loved me despite my handicap (see why I’m drawn to your blog?) and saw that I achieved my potential!
    2. My wonderful husband and two amazing sons.
    3. Many true and loving friends.

    Reply
  66. Anonymous says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:34 pm

    #1 I love the people who love life, as it comes, without judgement
    #2 I love perfection, even when we can’t understand that is what we are looking at
    #3 I love honesty, straight from the heart, unedited

    I do not have many friends, I choose to be more of an introvert and yet of my friends, many are the parents of DS children, I have had the privilege to teach 2 DS girls on Sunday mornings where they teach the truest form of love. And I really believe that when we all get to heaven the royalty up there will be these children, that you and the rest of my friends have had a jump start on knowing the truth. Your Nella is an angel.

    Reply
  67. A says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:35 pm

    1, Your blog which I just discovered last night and have read almost in it’s entirety, crying, smiling along the way.

    2,Being embraced in a huge hug and kissed when I jokingly asked my 10 year old son what did he have for me on Valentine’s Day. The voluntary hugs and kisses are sadly happening less often these days.

    3,Having a sweet husband who puts up with me and is right now making dinner while I have some ‘me’ time catching up on my email/facebook and fave blogs!

    Reply
  68. A says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:36 pm

    Oops that was from me ‘A’ at http://www.moremomtime.blogspot.com

    Reply
  69. Mrs. T says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:41 pm

    Can I give you two sets?
    What I love about your blog:
    1. Getting to look at your beautiful pictures.
    2. No other blog has ever moved me to tears. Your writing is open, honest, and moving.
    3. Nella’s eyes. She looks so wise and all-knowing. You are truly blessed.
    What I am loving in general in my life today:
    1. The snoring puppy asleep next to me.
    2. Our 6th daffodil that just opened up in the back yard.
    3. My wonderful husband that makes my tea and feeds the dog every morning just so I can sleep in for that extra 15 minutes.

    Reply
  70. Jodi Widhalm says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:48 pm

    Happy Valentine’s Day!
    I love…
    1. That I found this blog just in time for Valentine’s Day! How happy I am! It’s beautiful in every way! Thanks for taking the time!

    2. my sweet boys. They are the loves of my life and fill my heart with so much joy! Jackson (7), Carter (5) and Harrison (2)….there aren’t enough words to express this much love.

    3. our journey to find our daughter, in Africa! The quest has begun and it’s just as joyful as being physically pregnant. We are SO very excited that God has already chosen a perfect angel to be a princess among these princes! We can’t WAIT to meet her!

    Reply
  71. jen says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:51 pm

    1. baby finn’s snuggles – how he curls up on my chest listening to my heartbeat.
    2. cora’s giggles – though right now she’s crying.
    3. watching stella read – truly read to her brother and sister.
    and i must add one for the husband – sorry.
    3+. my husband’s absence – because although it’s hard … it makes being together that much more special.

    Reply
  72. joyq says

    February 14, 2010 at 11:53 pm

    Loving:

    Coffee. My fuel. My fire. My saving grace.

    30 Rock: Sometimes you have to laugh until you pee. just a little.

    Fat Babies: I love my little 8 month old hunk of burnin chub.

    Reply
  73. Malissa says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:05 am

    1) Making chocolate chip oatmeal cookies with my girl.
    2) Biking around the Snake River Green Belt with my daughter who said: “Let’s take it slow today mom. I want to talk to you and enjoy the nature”. Wow.
    3) My husband who shaved off his beard today. Hooray.

    And also….reading your blog and seeing all of the pretty pictures of your girls. Happy Valentines Day Hampton Family!

    Reply
  74. Meinhardt Family says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:05 am

    3 things I’m loving today? That’s easy:

    Jeremy
    Beck
    Nellie

    In a nutshell, my family. Absolutely nothing better in the entire world.

    Great post and pics. I check everyday to see how you are going to inspire. Thank you for doing this. I don’t have a child with DS, but I do have a child with Spina Bifida. Not only have your posts helped me, but all the post of the hundreds of people who read your blog help. I don’t feel alone. I’m a mother like many other mothers living similar stories.

    http://meinhardts.blogspot.com

    Reply
  75. Katy says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:05 am

    I’m loving the chance to hear my children making each other laugh hysterically.

    I’m loving that my husband and I decided not to buy each other a card for valentines, opting to send each other text messages with our own heartfelt messages. They mean so much when they come straight from the heart.

    I’m loving the opprotunity to just sit back and enjoy life. Enjoying the simple things. For in the grand scheme of things those simple things are what mean the most.

    Happy Valentine’s day to you and yours!!

    Reply
  76. Amanda says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:06 am

    1) My darling husband who asked me out on a first date 7 years ago…which quickly led to a marriage that same year. This is the guy who went out to purchase me a framboise beer last night, and came home with that and one perfect daisy flower. He knows I love daisies so much. He doesn’t care that I haven’t yet been able to have children, he’s content with just me.

    2) My sisters. Oh how I love my sisters. I was 10 when the first was born, and I was 19 when the last was born. All six of them stole my heart completely. (However, we all know that Miss Ellen is my favorite. I can’t help it, that dark hair like mine, and those hazel eyes stole my heart the first minute I met her.) The empty spaces in my heart are so big when I’m 800 miles away from them. The quiet is crowding me here, and I need some girlies to louden it up!

    3) My crazy, silly, beautiful Mom…who loves me just as I am. We had a rough start, me and the mommy. We were too young, and we made a lot of mistakes, but we pulled through, and now something wonderful has happened. We’re friends. Loving her today, and missing her horribly.

    Reply
  77. Jasmine says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:12 am

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    Reply
  78. snaphappee says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:13 am

    Wonderful post!

    *I love my honeybunnybabysweetiedumplin’puddin’pie (that’s my husband of 22 years).
    *I love Sunday afternoon naps!
    *I love hearing that other women have completely wonderful husbands!

    Reply
  79. Jasmine says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:13 am

    Happy Valentine’s Day.

    Three times I’m loving today:

    My man.
    My children.
    and God who allowed me to birth six children.

    Thanks for asking.

    Reply
  80. Nicole says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:14 am

    Ok, I officially cannot get enough of that grin! Leaving your blog up on my browser on the coffee table, just so we can look at it some more…with Nella Fantasia playing in the background. Simply delightful :o)

    Reply
  81. Lauren says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:33 am

    1. Making homemade valentines with my kiddies today. construction paper, ribbon, lace, and neon markers…..delicious.

    2. sitting in my favorite spot during nap time while the cool crisp breeze is blowing in through the window.

    3. quietly watching my daughter’s reflection while she is putting on my lipstick in the bathroom

    Reply
  82. Cristie says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:36 am

    1. Ainsley (6.5)
    2. Sage (4 tomorrow!)
    3. Jude (15 months)

    Reply
  83. ~ jessica says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:58 am

    Today I am loving:

    1) Reading your blog. I’ve subscribed. I love “listening” to you talk about your day with your beautiful girls, and your photos are amazing. They remind me how truly beautiful the world is.

    2) My wonderful husband of 15 months (still newlyweds!) who surprised me with flowers and chocolate-covered strawberries, and loads of kisses.

    3) Babies. The wonder, the hope, the potential. Every single baby can change the world and I am humbled by them.

    Blessings to your family.

    Reply
  84. Cheri says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:05 am

    1. Fabulously fun and sassy shoes

    2. Diapers…cuz they’re just cute…nuff said 😉

    3. I love how my sons extra chromosome has had this innate ability to take my heart to depths it never knew, to help me love more deeply, and to see more clearly all that is meaningful and beautiful in this life.

    Reply
  85. Kait says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:09 am

    What a beautiful post, like always. Today I love:

    1. That my partner went to a couples prenatal yoga class with me today… and liked it.

    2. The pork pizole I had for lunch today… yummy.

    3. That I got comic books at the comic book store for the first time in years. I’m very excited to read them.

    Thanks for sharing all the things you love!

    Reply
  86. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:16 am

    1.) That just a simple text message saying “I want you to be my Valentine!” completely cancels out the bad day I have had at work and I smile every time I go back and look at it.
    2.)My mom, who always gets me things for Valentines Day even though I’m grown.
    3.)The anticipation of one day having children. I’m not ready yet, but reading your blog, and every mom’s comment they leave, gets me so excited and makes me feel truly blessed that I am a woman and God made me to go through the amazing process of making another human.

    Reply
  87. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:16 am

    1. I love watching my 2 year old daughter dance. Two years ago today she got her chest closed after her first open heart surgery and that night we almost lost her again…
    2. I love my husband for being the man who loves me unconditionally. He is my rock and our anchor in this world.
    3. I love the person I have become. God doesn’t make mistakes when these special babies are created. I am forever changed because of her and I thank Him daily for the honor to call myself her mother.

    Reply
  88. Anne says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:27 am

    HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY TO YOU AND YOUR LITTLE CUTIE-PIES:)!

    1. I love when my son says to me, before falling asleep . . . “Mommy, will you squeeze me?” . . which means I wrap my arms completely around him and we fall asleep together. My favorite words of the entire day:)

    2. I love my beautiful mother for her endless love and support.

    3. I love my new favorite blog . . . enjoyingthesmallthings;) Thank you:)

    Reply
  89. Julie Harward says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:30 am

    Loved this post…especially about Nells gazing into your eyes! Three thing…1. Holding my husbands hand in church. 2. Going out to dinner together. 3. The wonderful back rub I got! Hope you have had a great day…come say hi when you can 😀

    Reply
  90. Blanca says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:42 am

    Your blog inspires me to continue to count my blessing and smile, even though I can be having a horrible day. I have a son with Spina Bifida, and I can to a lot of the emotions you felt when Nella was born. I want to tell that I check your blog every day. It brings me comfort, and I absolutely love your pictures. I hope you lived in Chicago, and I would hire you in a second!!

    1. I love waking up to a pair of feet and hands in my face each Sunday morning. I have twin boys and on Sundays, we sleep in until they can not take it anymore.

    2. I love that the planning of my boys 1st birthday is becoming a community planning event, as opposed to a family planning event.

    3. I love the great team my husband and I make. He truly helped me become the strong woman I am now.

    Thank you….

    Reply
  91. mel says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:49 am

    1. I LOVE the fact that I’m blessed and lucky enough to live out my passions: teaching kids as my job….I get to go to work each day and it never feels like I’ve worked a single day in my life!

    2. I LOVE that this mode of communication, your blog, has connected so many people from around the world….a place to learn about other people’s lives and that we all share something in common

    3. I LOVE that life sometimes isn’t fair because through those rainy days and thunderstorms is when we learn the most about the meaning of life and LOVE. When life isn’t fair, we are pushed beyond, what we believe, is our capabilities, to soon realize that we are never given something we can’t handle.

    Thanks for this thought provoking blog. It’s pretty amazing to see what other people have LOVED today and just how insanely GOOD the human race is, like you said before!

    Reply
  92. Paige says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:53 am

    LOVE…

    *My firefighter husband crawling into bed with me this morning as he came of shift and sleeping a couple more hours cuddled up.

    *The Cozy coming off my new fireplace.

    *Our quiet home with all 4 teenagers gone today.

    Reply
  93. Michelle says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:57 am

    I LOVE the note my man left me in soap on the bathroom mirror today, and the poem (in soap) on the shower doors.

    I LOVE (oh, and i HATE you for showing me lol) Lightroom. ARGH. 299 bucks!! Argh.

    I love that you are doing ok. Or better than ok. WHY on Earth do I feel such a connection to you. These little angels, I guess, join our hearts. Maybe it is watching you walk the same path I walked, that has brought SO much to my life, and knowing all the little wonders that are in store for you? Its like rewatching a favorite movie, in color this time. Happy Valentines Day Kelle.

    Reply
  94. Bowen says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:02 am

    Three things I am loving:

    1. The fact that last week we found out we’ll be having a second daughter. Reading your blog has enhanced the “happy feelings” I have about having two precious girls in my life and how blessed I am to be their mommy.

    2. How my two year old makes my heart fill up so much it feels like it’s going to burst.

    3. My loving husband who is my best friend and who I’m so thankful to have someone to share my life with and someone to laugh with, even when life seems hard.

    Happy Valentine’s Day!! 🙂

    Reply
  95. ErinB says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:03 am

    1. I love the sound of my 5 month old daughter Irelyn’s giggle.
    2. I love the smell of my newly clean 2 year old daughter Brooklynn when she gets out of the bath.
    3. I love that every morning my husband leaves for work with a kiss, a smile, and the phrase “Have fun with the girls today”.

    Reply
  96. Jessica says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:05 am

    I couldn’t agree more…Hallmark holiday or not, I love any excuse to be more lovey-dovey, give gifts and eat sweets!

    LOVE…
    1. At 7:30 am I heard my sweet 6 day old baby boy squeal from his bassinet. Wanting just a few more minutes of the sleep, I pulled him into bed with me where we snuggled together. The next thing I know it’s 9:30, Daddy and Bridget are downstairs, breakfast was taken care of AND the dishwasher was empty. Happy Mommy!

    2. Bridget is learning to count and in her world the teens are never-ending. After 19, comes “uhn”-teen, “oo”-teen, “ee-teen.

    3. I get to say “my kids” now…I have 2 kids:)

    Reply
  97. Sensi says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:08 am

    Things that I’m loving today?

    1. I finally found my soulmate and the love of my life at age 42. Sometimes they are right there all along.

    2. I have a wonderful, if sometimes moody, 13 year old daughter who is a wonderful person.

    3. LIFE!

    Kelle:

    A dear friend sent me the link to your blog today. I had no idea when I came to it that it would have such a huge effect on me. I spent a few hours crying through your posts while trying to explain to my husband exactly what I was feeling. The truth is you are the mother that I aspire to be. Your love for your family is here, in black and white, in every word you type. Your blog is beautiful. Your pictures are gorgeous. Your family is just beautiful and Nella will by far overcome the labels that society and the medical field try to paste on her. Having a child with a handicap may be a shock at first but you took the challenge on with a mother’s love and overcame it. You are very talented and an inspiration. Reading your blog has made me realize that through some very bad life decisions on my part I have missed out on some of that joy that is so evident in your blog. I “couldn’t see the forest for the trees” and I can never get that time back. I have made some big life changes over the last couple of years. I’m far from perfect, but I hope that I’m making up for my short falls.
    Thank you SO much for the inspiration.

    Reply
  98. Brianna says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:13 am

    LOVE all that pink. And I love “LOVE” as well. There can never be too much.

    Three things I’m loving…

    1. Kisses from my husband and my babies.

    2. Friends who make me feel like a million bucks.

    3. The oreo truffles I just finished making.

    Reply
  99. Lisa says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:19 am

    Happy *love* Day!

    -I love that I am learning to love my dslr camera and that I took some amazing photos of my girls today!
    -I love that I’m in the host city for the 2010 Olympics and that I got to spend it wandering around downtown with family, I’m so honored to live here.
    -I love that I have found your family and your blog. I truly look forward to your posts <3

    Reply
  100. GretaLouise and JackBoyer says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:31 am

    Dear Kelle,
    I found your blog a few weeks ago and Nella’s birth story was the first post I read. I have been catching up on all of your posts and gorgeous photography and I want to tell you something that means so much to me. You have given me such a gift by sharing your story. You have given me a new way to view each day that is so much more positive. You have given me a new strength and a new momentum that my life needed. I am the mother of 3 year old Greta and 1 year old Jack and you have given them a gift, too, because I am embracing our challenges with much more laughter and love! It was always in me, but sometimes lack of sleep and no time to brush the teeth or hair messes up the proper hierarchy! We are sending you and your beautiful family love. Thank you for sharing your journey with me.
    There are 3 things I love today…..
    When I hear my daughter repeat something I say to her all the time that I don’t even realize I say, like, “Sweet child, your eggs are getting cold.” (She called me sweet child today.)

    I love the quiet during the children’s nap time and that by the time they wake up hours later, I miss them!

    I love it when the fridge is full of food, and the pantry and we order chinese anyway!

    Reply
  101. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:32 am

    I love that you can find the greatest gifts when life steers you in a direction you had not planned.

    I love that I found your blog. You are amazing, inspirational and a true gift.

    I love my husband and my adopted son whom people will often say I “saved” but I always respond the “truth is he saved me.”

    Happy Valentines Day.

    Reply
  102. Jessica says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:36 am

    The fact that I found the man of my dreams in the most unlikely place at the most unlikely time.

    The ability to laugh and love in spite of the incredibly rough couple of years we have had.

    Three little girls that fill my heart. All the way up.

    Reply
  103. Mrs. B says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:36 am

    I love…the little things we learn from friends – like when eating french fries, its better to salt your ketchup *then* dip your fries in it.

    I love…the way my 3 yr old son stares at his 4 month old baby sister and says “Mommy, I love baby sister – she’s my favorite”.

    I love…big wondrous eyes , little feet and plastic play food & Matchbox cars stuck in between the couch cushions.

    Reply
  104. Danelle says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:42 am

    1) a very funny valentine card that made me smile so big

    2)work. ya i worked today. i work with the elderly and i love it.

    3)texts. i got one from my sister first thing this morning saying Happy Heart Day!

    Reply
  105. Rachel says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:51 am

    1. I was very much in love with the cup of coffee that my husband got me this afternoon. We were so tired from watching Olympics these last couple nights, that he went and tried to order me a good cup of coffee (he doesn’t do the stuff) and he did wonderful:)
    2. I am loving my tiny ballerina, who thinks that tutus should be a uniform worn every day.
    3. I love that the foot of snow we had in Texas last week is now mostly melted, except for what remains of the snow fort, snow slide and snow man!

    Reply
  106. Domestic Diva says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:59 am

    Oh, how I knew you’d have a love day post … and pinkalicious, too!

    Today I’m loving:
    1 – sleeping in
    2 – Myles and his wonderfully giving heart. (Of course I’m loving all my kids, but Myles has been surprising me with his kindness.)
    3 – my hubby sneaking off into a darkened dining room and ordering pizza to surprise me (as I was getting ready to warm up some leftovers.)

    Reply
  107. Audrey and Josh says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:04 am

    I can’t get enough of your writing Kelle. I’ve managed to catch myself in a crying mess at my computer at work reading your beautiful words. Thank you for sharing your life.

    3 Things I love:
    *My dear husband of nearly 2 years. Though we are early on in our marriage he has already taught me a lifetime’s worth of love and compassion.
    *The sweet children over in Burkina Faso West Africa at the Sheltering Wings Orphanage. It’s been about 5 years since my summer there but each day my heart grows bigger for those most precious children.
    *Life. The beauty of life. How it is so simple but yet so intensely complex. I feel so honored to be a part of this beautiful chaos and hope that I make a small dent in this world.

    Reply
  108. Susan the Singer says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:13 am

    Three things I’m loving right now…

    1. Listening to my husband, Guy, and my Rottweiler, Maynard, almost snore in tandem.

    2. My fourth graders. Teaching fourth grade wouldn’t have been my first choice, but the job fell into my lap and my kids are lovely. . . usually.

    3. Our sunshine Jelly Bean, the 6 year old German Shepherd, Labrador, Rottweiler, who-knows-what mutt and how funny she is when she wants out.

    Reply
  109. mrc-w says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:17 am

    1.) Well Jon of course! And having Valentine’s Day on a weekend where he only had 2 work-related things to do, so we actually got to spend some time together! 🙂

    2.) Those human interest stories of olympic athletes – they get me every time! The only trouble is that then it is hard to pick who you want to win the gold – it’s like “well I want so-and-so to win because her mom has cancer, but I want other-so-and-so to win becuase she recovered from a horrific accident, etc. etc.” But those stories make the olympics the cool thing that they are, to me anyways!

    3.) The fact that I’m giving a test tomorrow (mwhahaha – evil laughter) which means that I don’t have to prepare any lecture or activities for one of my classes tomorrow!

    Reply
  110. Teresa @ Grammy Girlfriend says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:21 am

    Happy Hearts Day….

    Amazing pictures and fast becoming one of my FAVORITE BLOGS

    Reply
  111. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:25 am

    This Valentine’s Day I am loving

    1) Being married. It is my first one to my wife. Legally we are married in Massachusetts, and I have hope that someday it will be a marriage of love that is recognized everywhere.

    2) The small things, braiding my step daughters hair for the first time, eating chocolate chip waffles with whip cream my wife made me, looking at pictures of my newborn nephew (born yesterday)

    3) The smells of home, as I cuddle up with my wife under a blanket watching the olympics…ahhhh life is so sweet.

    Reply
  112. Kiwi Nomad 2008 says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:35 am

    I am over the dateline from you, so it is already past Valentine’s Day here…but still from today….
    * Hearing that Tim, who I’ve known since he was four months old, proposed to his sweetheart out sailing in the harbour on Valentine’s Day. Who would have guessed he was such a sweet romantic?
    * enjoying chatting to people in the adjoining lanes at the swimming pool.
    * seeing an exhibition of high school art, and marveling at the beauty and creativity..

    Reply
  113. Amy Parris says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:53 am

    Today I loved watching my baby learn how to lick a lollipop – hysterical.

    I loved watching my kids’ faces light up when they saw the heart pancakes, chocolate hearts, lollipop hearts and sugar cookie hearts (yes, I love going a little overboard here and there).

    I love that today someone told me that they loved watching me watch my husband as if we were newlyweds when we’ve actually been married for almost 12 years.

    Reply
  114. Dana says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:10 am

    My kiddos Colin, Emilie and Molly. I love them everyday but today is alittle more fun with all of the red and pink 🙂

    Reply
  115. Valerie says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:20 am

    I love your blog & was so giddy to see new posts! Thank you!

    1…I am so in love with the fact that Valentine’s Day has for me expanded to sharing not only the love of my husband, but the loves of my 2 precious girls!

    2…I love that I am truly so loved!

    3…I love that my house is a mess. Dishes, clothes, toys everywhere. I have done nothing but enjoy my sweet family today!

    Reply
  116. Sara from Boston says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:31 am

    Kelle, your words inspire me to re-open my eyes to the beauty and joy around me every day. Here are my three favorites:

    1. Looking into my husband’s eyes and seeing the child we hope to have someday soon.

    2. Seeing my best friend of ten years yesterday, and sharing the joy that is her first child, while celebrating her second-to-be!

    3. Being able to fall asleep tonight feeling deeply, deeply loved.

    Reply
  117. the mom~ says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:43 am

    Ahhhh, I love pink too!
    *I am loving lazy Sundays with my hubby and our 2 boys.
    *I am loving the fact I got to go out on a Valentines date with my hubby last night, he still captures my heart after 12 years.
    *I am loving LIFE and what it has to offer me, I feel incredibly blessed every.single.day!

    Reply
  118. Julie says

    February 15, 2010 at 5:53 am

    1) Giving my 3 kids Valentine’s Day cards telling them how wonderful they are and how loved and signing them “Love, God”.

    2) Having just had an entire weekend with nothing scheduled leaving us time to do whatever we thought was fun at the moment.

    3) Having chocolate chip pancakes for dinner on Valentine’s Day – tinted pink of course.

    Reply
  119. Leah says

    February 15, 2010 at 5:58 am

    Love your blog……
    Here are my three things:
    *My husband who has stood beside me through the death of both of my parents.
    *The snow that is coming down outside my window. :o)
    *And mostly, for my sweet baby girl, who was diagnosed with Alopecia Areata on Monday, that sleeps beside me right now.

    Reply
  120. Owlhaven says

    February 15, 2010 at 6:29 am

    Right now I’m loving:

    — editing pictures I took of six of my gorgeous kids today. (How did I get so blessed?)

    –hearing my hubby snoring in the recliner next to me after taking me to see ‘Blind Side’ this evening. (What a stellar movie!!!)

    — hearing my daughter and her boyfriend whispering and laughing at the dining room table right now. (Ah, young love!)

    Reply
  121. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 6:29 am

    I love my family, chocolate and the inspiration your story brings. You may want to google Loving Emma Jayne…it is a blog by another mom that is also very inspirational. Her daughter has trisomy 21 and is now 5. Your babies are beautiful. Happy V-Day.

    Reply
  122. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 7:33 am

    Happy Valentines Day!

    3 things I love:

    * my hubby
    * my little girl (10 months)
    * baby feets!

    xo
    c

    Reply
  123. Crissa Lucero says

    February 15, 2010 at 8:00 am

    Happy Valentine’s Day!

    Things I love today:
    ~Spending most of the day with my two favorite loves…
    ~Seeing my 2 year old’s excitement when her daddy rang the doorbell and found him standing there with two roses (one for each of us)
    ~Hearing my toddler say “Happy Valemtimes day mommy” about a million times…and tell me how “Boooeeeful” her “Fower” was. 🙂

    Reply
  124. Melanie says

    February 15, 2010 at 8:18 am

    A little late, but I’m inspired to write anyway.

    1. I love that I happened to notice one of my high school students this morning coming in to school; she was stopping at each on of the maintenance guys who were standing in the rain working as morning traffic guards to give them each a chocolate.

    2. I love that I watched a young man stand up in front of the whole school on Friday and tell us that he’s not stupid and that we should be building each other up instead of tearing each other down.

    3. I love that when my daughter comes home each day she is a massive mess, but wonderfully happy with all she’s done today.

    Reply
  125. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 9:38 am

    A little late, but still basking in ‘love’ day!

    At the moment, I am in love with…

    – My man Dan. He will be my husband one day, and we will create beautiful babies (hopefully with his big, soulful blue eyes!)

    – Finding beauty and peace within the mundane of everyday life.

    – being creative. Taking time to write, capture or make something beautiful.

    Thank you for the inspiration…

    Bella in Australia

    Oh I need another one…sweet soft scrumptious baby feet!

    Reply
  126. Kristin says

    February 15, 2010 at 11:00 am

    I’m a new reader to your site…my friend sent me the link and I was captivated! Your writing, your pictures, your life…its all out there in vivid splashes of color and rich literary embelishments…I’m desperate to read more!

    Three things I LOVE:
    -the sound of my husband’s quite breathing when I wake early in the morning and he’s still fast asleep
    -a handwritten note from a friend, just to catch up
    -listening to the sounds of the churchbells ring while watching the snow fall down around the city.

    Reply
  127. Malu says

    February 15, 2010 at 11:58 am

    As an exchanged student I was introduced to valentine’s day celebrations and since that day I’d never missed a celebration.
    1-I just love to be living by the sea,
    2 to have the loved ones ever near me
    3 to blog and meet loving people as you are.
    Happy valentine’s day!

    Reply
  128. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:00 pm

    HI Kelle. I am new to your blog and I really can’t stop reading it. I have a beautiful son, my dream, whohas Downs. His name is Andrew and he, tomorrow, will be 6 months old. My eyes are tearing up writing this or some reason. I feel connected to you (in a very UN-creepy/clingy/stalker way. I don’t know anyone w/ a Downs baby and although they are very much “the same” IT, for us, is different in a very unique and really quite awesome way. Ive started a blog (totally inspired!)”pasttheappleorchard”.
    Thank you for opening this door….I totally barrelled through it!
    ok my 3 things
    1. carrying Andrew in his Baby Bjorn through Whole Foods Market feeling like a mama kangaroo
    2. going to the Toy Chest to buy Valentines Day presents and spending WAY TOO MUCH money on a really cool stuffed dragon for him (or me not sure!)
    3. sitting on the couch with him at 10:00pm watching him drift in and out of sleep while laughing, cooing and squeezing my fingers for reassurance.

    be well Kelle. Nykki Poole

    Reply
  129. SAHMbunny says

    February 15, 2010 at 12:24 pm

    THINGS THAT IM LOVING TODAY

    ONE : PRESCHOOL HUNTING WITH MY ELDEST SON JD. I HAD HIM TRY AND SIT IN A NURSERY CLASS AND HE DID GOOD JOB PACKING AWAY TOYS AND PENS BY HIMSELF (NOBODY ASKED HIM TO DO IT) SAMHbunny’s proud today

    TWO: I LOVE THE FACT THAT I GET TO LOCKED MY SELF AND HAVE A QUALITY TIME WITH ZACH IN THE ROOM WHILE MOM AND AUNTIE IS BABYSITS JD

    THREE: THE CONSTANT “ILOVEYOU HONEY” OF SAHMbunny’s hubby.May it be through emails, yahoo messenger,sms or phonecalls.. IT FEELS GOOD TO HEAR THAT AMIDST THE BUSY DAYS BEING A SAHMBUNNY

    THREE POINT 1 : WATCHING JD AND ZACH WHILE THEY DO THE “HUGS AND KISSES”

    extra: I love your blog Kelle!

    Reply
  130. Christina says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:17 pm

    Loving cubed 🙂
    1. My 2 year old Sofie saying, “I love you so much most mommy,” …melt
    2. My husband cooking chiken parm and baking homeade whoopie pies for us and then cleaning the kitchen spotless, like he’d never stepped foot in there!
    3. Coffee & Chocolate covered strawberries…for breakfast!

    Reply
  131. madster says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:31 pm

    Harlow, reading your blog all the way from Singapore. Where we are right now we are celebrating chinese new year. So here are the things I love about today:

    1. To take my girl out to the park on a Chinese New Year holiday.
    2. To spend sometimes alone shopping afterwards.
    3. To have dinner with the dearest husband.

    Love your photography!

    lifewithmadeline.blogspot.com

    Reply
  132. Jennifer says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:37 pm

    Okay, so HOW does Lainey know how to write? She’s only two, right??

    My loves:
    1) The way my son immediately reaches for a strand of my hair when he’s near me and runs his fingers over it again and again.

    2) My daughter’s toes, chubby and perfect with chipped off red polish on them. They are begging to be sucked.

    3) How my husband still acts like he did when we were 17… waking up and saying, “Happy Valentine’s Day sweet tits.”

    Happy Valentine’s Day to you and yours.

    Reply
  133. ashleyenfrance says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:43 pm

    Past Valentine’s Day out here in France too, but I am loving

    -thinking about the Indian dinner my husband made for us last night (it happens rarely around here that Papa makes dinner and I love it when he does. Especially how he locks himself in the kitchen to make dinner, and we are NOT allowed to peek! oh and that he choose to make something Indian… I have no idea why!).

    -getting ready for the MamaMoblie this girl is going to be driving soon.

    -seeing the sun out and soaking in its rays, even if it is just on a blanket on the floor.

    Reply
  134. Roberta says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:58 pm

    1. The man who I married 40 years ago!
    2. My beautiful daughter who has given me the most precious gift of “Madeline” and my “adopted” daughter who continues to tug at my heart and amaze me!
    3. My son who continues to make me proud every day of his life.
    I’m a very blessed and loved woman because of all of them!

    Reply
  135. Carrie says

    February 15, 2010 at 1:59 pm

    *Skype, which allows me and our 3 year old son to see and hear our hero who is deployed to Egypt.

    *The way our son makes “fishy lips” when he sleeps and his cheek is smooshed against his pillow. I cannot EVER resist the temptation to kiss them, even at the risk of waking him up.

    *Being inspired by your photography to do an even better job of capturing the “small things” with my family. A friend told me the other day, “You really do take pictures of everything!” I took that as a great compliment! 🙂

    Blessings!

    Reply
  136. Anna says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:27 pm

    A beautiful blog. I feel the LOVE!

    I know I’m a day late but it is love day everyday surely?!

    * I love my family
    * I my daughter Eloise’s extra 21st chromosome – because it part of her
    * I love being a Mum to two gorgeous girls.

    anna x

    Reply
  137. Anna says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:27 pm

    A beautiful blog. I feel the LOVE!

    I know I’m a day late but it is love day everyday surely?!

    * I love my family
    * I my daughter Eloise’s extra 21st chromosome – because it part of her
    * I love being a Mum to two gorgeous girls.

    anna x

    Reply
  138. Rachel says

    February 15, 2010 at 2:51 pm

    Just got acquainted with you and nella and felt such a deep stirring in my being when i read your words. you see, i was birthing my fifth child at the same time you were laboring to bring nella into the world (which is why there is no caps in this – we’re nursing) Anyway, Caleb came into the world at 3:55 on 1-22. We lost our daughter in Oct. ’08 and had a m/c in Feb. ’09 and then had a high risk pregnancy with Caleb – so we were so blessed when he was born healthy. Nella’s story is soo beautiful, though I cried while reading. May she be a blessing to all who meet her!

    Reply
  139. Robyn says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:07 pm

    I love that I was married to my soulmate 12 years ago! It was the coldest day of the year after weeks of people surviving a devistating ice storm…and holding the wedding off for 1/2 hour because we had guests whom were lost! I love that he is still by my side through the good the bad the ugly and through all the evolution we love each other more today than we did 12 years ago!

    Reply
  140. Tisha says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:12 pm

    1. presidents day – cuz i get to stay home from work with my boys. 🙂

    2. the winter olympics (not deep, but hey they only happen once every 4 years).

    3. snow (when one is inside by a fire!)

    xoxo!

    Reply
  141. Kristen's mom says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:24 pm

    I love…
    A doctor who without hesitation is going forward with Kristen’s bone marrow transplant WITHOUT the approval of the insurance company.

    The fact that we have 4 more lovely days at home before going to the hospital for a 6 week stay.

    Family, friends and strangers who love us unconditionally.

    Reply
  142. dig this chick says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:28 pm

    loving today:

    Slow snow falling outside.

    Ruby is asleep on my lap right now. I don’t think I’ll ever fall out of love with the healthy, normal breathing of this girl.

    I don’t anything I have to do today other than go to the post office. Wonder what our day will hold?

    Reply
  143. Melissa says

    February 15, 2010 at 3:59 pm

    I am loving & ever grateful for

    my husband who is my touchstone, who works 7 days a week to provide for our family & who sacrifices health, sleep, & his own time to be with us when he can be & for giving me our little Valentine

    my sweet baby girl who in just 7 days will be 11 months old which means in 1 month, she will be entering a whole new chapter of her little life. She brings me such love & joy (even when she didn’t let me sleep more than 20 minutes at a time last night after I’m still recuperating from a stomach bug!).

    loving that I found your blog & how your words have inspired me. It’s so easy to take the little things for granted. I always prided myself on appreciating the sunset on my drive home from work while my fellow commuters focused on Blackberries, work tasks, or their general dissatisfaction of a too-crowded highway & too little patience. But working a full time job, caring for a very busy, happy 10 month old (albeit one who hates sleep), a home, & a husband who is often away, my exhaustion often overwhelms me to the point of missing out on those moments where I could’ve stolen a kiss but instead focused on cleaning up or some other insignificant *chore*. Finding your words & pictures has inspired me to appreciate those moments because they are fleeting & I will never, ever be able to get them back again. Despite being home alone while sick to my stomach & caring for my little mush, I kissed her a bazillion times, told her how much I loved her again & again & again & rocked her for just 5 minutes more before putting her down to sleep. I am so grateful to you for opening my eyes (again) to what’s really important in life.

    Reply
  144. nicole says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:24 pm

    ~ I could so picture you nursing little Nella and her curiosity getting the better of her. It warms my heart to know she is getting such tender care ~ Bravo mama!

    Reply
  145. From the Kitchen says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:28 pm

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    Reply
  146. Amber, That's Me! says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:38 pm

    Today I am loving…

    my cozy little home, when it is so cold outside

    That tonight is our son’s choice for dinner: we are having mac and cheese, chicken nuggets, and instant mashed potatoes

    that I have a short week- going to the state wrestling tournament on Friday!

    Reply
  147. Anna Liesemeyer says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:41 pm

    what a beautiful post-both in words and pictures!
    I absolutely am loving today:
    1) My boys-my husband and son. I could have only them left in the world and I would be okay.
    2) Coffee-the little things that get you through a Monday morning!
    3) Music- what can bring me close to heaven, soothing pain, or dancing till I am sore!

    All the best,
    Anna

    Reply
  148. Heidi says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:53 pm

    1. kardashian marathon…lol!
    2. sleeping in today and free time to work now.
    3. the health of my family and friends!

    that last pic of the heart shaped peanut butter and jelly looks so good, i’m mad at you for posting it…LOL!!!

    love you.

    Reply
  149. Randall and Heather Cleckler says

    February 15, 2010 at 4:59 pm

    Only three huh?? Well here we go:

    1) a husband I love more than life pulls the car over, gives me a long, sweet kiss to remind me that he loves me and that he thinks I am beyond beautiful, even when I don’t feel the same
    2) a God who hits me so hard sometimes with love that it takes my breath away for a split second
    3) (my favorite) my first born grabbed mommy’s hands and asked me for our first dance together and we slowly waltzed around the living room while tears streamed down my face. Love was so thick you could practically grab it.

    Reply
  150. [email protected] says

    February 15, 2010 at 5:08 pm

    Well, it’s the 15th… but Happy Valentine’s anyway! Some of my friends bash V day, but I love the extra excuse to pour love and treats onto my family, and perhaps do something we might not normally make time for.

    Hm… only 3 thing? Hehe. My hubby and I went out for a few hrs Sat and then again Sun (I’m nursing and didn’t want to be away from my little one for too long), and I’m so thankful for stolen moments together that allow us to fall in love all over again. I’m always saying that, as frustrating, challenging, and a host of other things that our 2 children can be – we are truly blessed and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I am SO loving Gwendolyn (2 yrs) and Josiah (almost 3 mos). One more thing… um… chocolate!

    I have pathetic dial-up, so it takes forever for pics to load… but I keep refreshing the page till I can see all your beautiful pictures.

    PS I can’t dance at all, but it doesn’t stop me (at least, not at home).

    Reply
  151. Life with Kaishon says

    February 15, 2010 at 5:16 pm

    I love today (the day after Valentines Day)

    – a school holiday for my pumpkin!
    – icicles I can photograph
    – cinnamon toast crunch cereal for breakfast
    – the ability to be thankful
    – your blog!

    Reply
  152. susan says

    February 15, 2010 at 5:32 pm

    I love my Husband of 10 years. He is my Rock.
    I love my Children. Cole, Seth and Jana.
    I love that after 19 months I am stronger than I ever thought I could be.
    I love the space in between Jana’s eyes. It is the perfect spot to kiss her.
    I love that a blog can bring many mothers and fathers all around the world that share a common bond.
    I love the fact that when I see Jana I do not Focus on Down syndrome any more. I just see my Beautiful Daughter.
    Love the new pictures. I love the one when Nella just got out of a bath. I have one that looks just like that of Jana.
    Praying for you. Praying the bad days be replaced with good ones very soon. Hugs.

    Reply
  153. love says

    February 15, 2010 at 6:17 pm

    happiest of valentine’s days!

    3 things i love today…

    -that hubby came home from his 8 day business trip today. 5 kids ages 6 and under has a limit of 8ish days alone!

    -that our newest little love came home to his forever family, from Uganda, 3 months ago today! i can’t remember life without him.

    -that my name is Love everyday.

    Reply
  154. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 6:20 pm

    I am loving these three things Kelle…guess who 🙂

    1. That even though my marriage may be over, my credit is destroyed, and I feel like I have no direction, I know everything will be ok when I hold my two newborns.

    2. My parents who I know will never let me down, and who have always given me the best guidance in life.

    3. The new friends I have made this year…I can’t begin to explain how much I LOVE them.

    Reply
  155. Kait & Joe says

    February 15, 2010 at 6:35 pm

    We were on our way back from our honeymoon yesterday, but it didn’t stop me from seeing if you had wrote anything new on your blog!

    Yesterday i was loving…

    *Creating life’s new and old memories with my husband. “It never matters WHERE you are, but WHO your with”

    *Having such a wonderful family, my parents watched our “girls” (2 chihuahuas & a mastiff) while we were out of town. It was great to not worry once about them.

    and last*Coming home. There is nothing like sleeping in your own bed! (Although the one at the Bellagio felt pretty close) 🙂

    Your writing and photography simply amazes me. You are able to capture every feeling and put it in writing or pictures. Thank you for that. And thank you for sharing it with the world! I find myself looking forward to reading your new posts. And enjoying experiencing your previous posts through more reading. It makes me realize that we are all so alike yet different in many ways. Often your sad days makes me want to reach out and give you a hug. You’ve made me relfect often on my life, and its precious moments. We are all soooo blessed and can often take it for granted. I laugh and cry with your stories. It gives me such hope and excitment for my future with my husband (we are newlyweds from Dec. 9, 2009) and starting a family.

    Your new friend,
    Kait

    Reply
  156. Marianne says

    February 15, 2010 at 6:37 pm

    Happy Valentine’s Day, Kelle and family! (a day late … and a dollar short… gah.)

    I’m currently loving:
    1) Getting to spend Valentine’s Day with my favorite people in the whole world – My husband, my son, and my parents. I got to watch my parents fall in lover over and over and over again with my two year old … and somehow, strangely, it made me love him more.
    2) How God uses heartbreak to make us better people, people who love more, give more, and touch more.
    3) Finding this beautiful place on the internet. My goodness. Thank you.

    Reply
  157. Lauren says

    February 15, 2010 at 6:39 pm

    before i say my 3 things… thank you for sharing your world here. i am totally inspired by you and your family. your story is beautiful and so are your sweet little girls! i can’t get enough of them… i miss having little ones around. I’m not a momma but i am a big sister (3 times over) so i can totally relate to lainey. it is so cool to be a big sister and to have those special bonds. your little ones are blessed to have a momma who is overflowing with love and caring. your family will be in my prayers everyday. i know you’ve got a long road ahead of you, but it will be (and is!) gorgeous.

    3 things… in no particular order…
    – snow, snow, snow! I’m from PA where we recently got more snow than we’ve seen in over ten years. i know some people deal with this every winter, but i remember those storms from when i was a kid in school and there’s nothing like the magic of snow. those perfect snowy nights when you can just stay inside, cuddle up with hot chocolate and watch it fall.

    – that valentine’s day isn’t just about romantic love, its about the love you have for friends and family. and expressing that love is joyous.

    – my dog, Lucy. the unconditional love she shows me makes my day. everyday i come home from work she could not be more excited to see me.

    Reply
  158. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 7:13 pm

    Wow! I have been reading your blog for the past week now, thanks to a girlfriend who found you and instantly fell in love with your words and photography. You speak the words that are in our heart but can’t find their way to our tongue.

    The three things I love:
    1. My daughter, she came at the perfect time in my life and reminded me that although some lives are taken too early that life continues and so must I.
    2. My parents, I never truly realized how much they loved me until I ventured into this crazy and rewarding life of parenting.
    3. My husband, because he has proved to me that there is such a thing as unconditional love. We have been through some crazy times in these 10 years but through thick and thin, there he is, arms and heart open wide!

    Thank you for sharing your story! You inspire me to love the small things and appreciate life for it’s unexpected blessings!

    Reply
  159. justjaime31 says

    February 15, 2010 at 7:15 pm

    I just wanted to tell you that your blog is amazing. Your daughters are absolutly beautiful.

    You are inspiring.

    Thank you for putting your life out there. I think it will bring smiles to alot of people when they need it.

    ~jaime

    Reply
  160. Melissa says

    February 15, 2010 at 7:59 pm

    I LOVE your blog! It is truly a joy to occasionally go on your journey with you. We’ve never met, we’ve never spoken, but your words touch my heart. Your daughters are beautiful:) Thank you for sharing.

    -Melissa

    Reply
  161. katie says

    February 15, 2010 at 9:00 pm

    I just spent the weekend on rewind of your post…I’m completely addicted! I am in love with your writing and even more in love with your photos – I want so bady for you to photograph my little girls – the only problem is that I live in Ontario, Canada. It would be a tad inconveinent. You inspire me.

    Reply
  162. Anonymous says

    February 15, 2010 at 9:15 pm

    Hi Kelle,
    I was sent a link to your beautiful birth story by a friend here in New Zealand and I think I’ve read almost every entry over the past few days. You write so well, and your photos are just amazing. Your girls, it goes without saying, are just perfect.

    Today I’m loving:
    * That is it still summer here in the Southern Hemisphere – soaking up those rays while they last
    * That my parents have returned home after living abroad for a number of years
    * My wonderful, amazing husband who hums and sings to me in his sleep every night.

    Love to you

    Reply
  163. teresia benedicta&johanna anna says

    February 15, 2010 at 9:27 pm

    i love

    that my girl declares her little sister her best friend.

    that i learned today that life is fleeting, literally.

    that i can handled my fears

    god does love!
    actually, he IS love!

    thanks for sharing your incredible story!

    Reply
  164. Leah @ Simply Fabulous says

    February 15, 2010 at 10:57 pm

    I am in love with my husband, who is in England while I am here in Canada…but I will see him next week.

    I am in love with our baby, who I am 21 weeks pregnant with. We just found out on Friday that we are having a baby girl and we couldn’t be more happy…

    I am in love with our future, because I know that no matter what we have a love for each other and our family that we have created and nothing can take that away from me.

    xoxo

    Reply
  165. abbey bernardi says

    February 15, 2010 at 11:00 pm

    3 things i love

    -that when i started writing, bayley woke up and said mama mama and i crawled in bed and cuddled next to her and fell asleep.

    -books and how inspiring they are

    -my fridge and how it kinda tells a story about our family with how much stuff is on it

    Reply
  166. Kendra says

    February 15, 2010 at 11:27 pm

    Love 🙂

    **Feeling my baby kick me harder each day (25 weeks pregnant)

    **Waking up next to a man that really does love the stink out of me no matter how crazy I am

    **The sun shining each day..no matter how little

    Reply
  167. Sarah W. says

    February 15, 2010 at 11:59 pm

    * My morning cup of tea, and the Today Show…and if I’m lucky, a fresh muffin and a warm little body in my lap.
    ** The smell of my daughters’ feet…fresh out of sneakers and socks that have been on ALL DAY!
    *** The sound of the garage door closing around dinner time…after daddy has come home and the girls are in from playing outside. It means we’re all home together again, safe and sound.

    Wow…its really hard to weed it down to 3! That took a lot longer than I thought it would. Thanks for making me think about it, and making me remember how many things in this life that I really love!!

    And thank you for sharing your loves.

    Sarah W.

    Reply
  168. Anonymous says

    February 16, 2010 at 12:37 am

    What a beautiful family. I just recently found your blog and I love reading about your family and your beautiful daughters. Congratulations and Happy Valentines Day (one day late). Diane in Illinois

    Reply
  169. Chickenbells says

    February 16, 2010 at 12:44 am

    Happy Love Day:

    *Being surprised totally by my original Valentine’s, both my father and mother and their separate thoughtfulness with gifts and cards…

    *A box of chocolates from a good friend…who wanted to make sure that I received a box of chocolatey goodness for the holiday.

    Reply
  170. Rachel says

    February 16, 2010 at 12:52 am

    being able to text my husband while he’s away for military training!

    Peanut butter!

    and Reindeer footie baby PJs!!!

    Reply
  171. Ellie says

    February 16, 2010 at 1:07 am

    Oh Kelle, I too adore Pink. I am sitting here reading in my VS Pink Sweats.

    I am thankful for the gift of my three girls. I am especially thankful for my miscarriage in between children 2 and 3. She taught me to love every minute of every day because you never know when it will end.

    I am thankful and in love with a man who accepts me for my faults, and there are many.

    I am thankful for the Grace of God and knowing even when I have been a sinner, I can return to loving, open arm.

    Reply
  172. Tonya says

    February 16, 2010 at 1:12 am

    3 things I’m loving today:

    1. I love that my Taiwan princess turned 1 year old on Valentine’s Day! This special day is so fitting as a birthday for her!

    2. I love trying to live up to my favorite quote: “Let your actions speak so loud that your words cannot be heard”. I LOVE living towards that each day!

    3. I love God everyday. I love how HE knows me, knows my daughter, and knows our journey!

    Reply
  173. Anonymous says

    February 16, 2010 at 1:24 am

    I follow this blog, never commented before, but now I wanted to.

    I love the “I love you too much, mommy” my very special 6 yo. said to me earlier today.

    I love my amazing kids and SO.

    I love every beautiful day we get to spend with our very special 6 yo.

    Reply
  174. Lindsay says

    February 16, 2010 at 1:53 am

    I just love your blog! Happy belated Valentine’s Day.
    And 3 things I am loving (or loved yesterday…oh hech everyday for that matter)

    My 3 are…
    …
    I love the sound of my daughters laughter, I wish I could bottle it up and keep it forever.
    …
    Mac-n-cheese sprinkled with grated parmesan, popped in the oven on broil for just a minute or two until you get that perfect crunch on top! Now that’s love 🙂
    …
    And who can resist the smell & feel of fresh clean sheets.

    xoxox

    Reply
  175. infanthood blog says

    February 16, 2010 at 2:05 am

    whats the work of your husband…. why he always out of town?

    Reply
  176. infanthood blog says

    February 16, 2010 at 2:06 am

    whats the work of your husband…. why he always out of town?

    Reply
  177. angelmaryy21 says

    February 16, 2010 at 2:22 am

    I’m grateful for:

    1. Having my health back and not having to wonder if I’ll be able to see my babies grow into wonderful young men.

    2. Two precious boys who make every second of my life joyful.

    3. Clean, neatly folded laundry 🙂

    Reply
  178. Kristin says

    February 16, 2010 at 2:32 am

    Hi. I read Nella’s birth story very early Friday morning and cried and cried. Thank you for sharing! Love it, and I’m excited to read about your journey. The pictures of your sweet girls say so much. Keep sharing!

    Reply
  179. Anonymous says

    February 16, 2010 at 3:08 am

    Hello. I stumbled upon your blog – I don’t even remember how I got here. Your story, your family, your pictures and especially your words are truly amazing and inspirational. I want to spend hours just reading your blog from beginning to end! I have never heard such beautiful writing. Thank you for sharing!
    Sue

    Reply
  180. In Nevada says

    February 16, 2010 at 3:39 am

    1- Love is found on the 21st chromosome!
    2- That our darling girl of 11 months figured out how to get her Daddy to bring her the toy that rolled across the room … really loudly.
    3 – A husband that loves his family just the way it is …

    Reply
  181. Cassie says

    February 16, 2010 at 4:02 am

    Hi Kelle, you continue to inspire me! Your girls are beautiful beyond words. So here goes my list. I know I am a little late, but better late than never! Besides us wonderfully “imperfect” people have the right to be late every now and then right?!

    1. I love that my first sight and sound on Valentine’s morning was my 8 yr old, self proclaimed “momma’s boy” with his daddy’s blue eyes putting his hands on my cheeks, and kissing my nose saying “Happy Valentine’s Mommy!” <>

    2. The combination of panic and happiness that got caught in my throat when my 15yr old told me that the boy she likes asked her out…(on Facebook…he sent a relationship request…oh technology!)and it made me think of the days I spent with her in hospital after she was born 9 1/2 weeks early and how those days were spent in a constant state of panic and happiness! <> sorry about the run on!

    3. Knowing that I am with the man that I was meant to be with. The man who wants to give me the world, but doesn’t need to because all I need is him.

    We didn’t exchange gifts this year, because money is tight and times are tough, but he gave me a $2.00 card in which he recorded a message that meant more to me than any bouquet of flowers or box of candies or expensive dinner. This Valentine’s day was the best that I have ever had. I am so very sorry that you were unable to share it with your honey, but I can feel the love between the two of you from the words you put on this page. Your V-day was not cancelled just delayed! And how wonderful that you got to share it with your other Valentines! They look absolutely delicious in pink! Two little pink love bugs!

    I hope you had a wonderful V-day!

    Always,
    Cassie

    Reply
  182. MommaBeast says

    February 16, 2010 at 4:13 am

    You darling! This post is just pure joy. Thank you for sharing it.

    Three things I’m loving:

    1) The stumbling, bumbling, squealing joy of a baby mastering the art of walking.

    2) Sinking into a warm bath. Those first few seconds as your nerve endings say, “Warm!” and you sigh out a long breath in response.

    3) Seeing joy from other people, and finding a smile in myself in response to it.

    Reply
  183. Ssirsta says

    February 16, 2010 at 4:50 am

    1. I am loving my father for putting my daughter’s health above his bad habits.
    2. I am loving my daughter. Though she can scream loud enough to make me deaf for a bit, and her teething makes her very grouchy, when she smiles at me and gets the hiccups while laughing, I know I’m doing my job as a mother pretty well.
    3. I am loving my friends who always have a kind word for me when I’m down.

    And, one last thing, I am loving this day, February 15, 2010, because it is the day TWO baby boys were born to two lucky families. I am sure both my friends’ families will enjoy Valentine’s Day a little more now that they have new babies in their lives. I love my daughter more than anyone or anything else in this world and am always so happy to hear about babies being born and bringing their new parents so much joy. I know you had a tough time in the beginning with Nella, but I also know you know the joy I am talking about.

    Reply
  184. Veronica says

    February 16, 2010 at 4:53 am

    1. I love the warmth of the sun on my back even though the temperatures are well below zero…it gives me hope of new life.

    2. I love my four men…who try so hard to show they love me in their “menly” ways.

    3. I love the kinship of good friends who make me laught till my stomach muscles hurt. This is a good thing…because then I know there are stomach muscles still there under all that baby jello!)

    Reply
  185. Megan says

    February 16, 2010 at 5:14 am

    really, really lovely blog

    Reply
  186. Katia says

    February 16, 2010 at 5:33 am

    You have changed peoples lives! By your writing, your photography and by your love for your family! You are one strong, amazing and beautiful woman! I hope I am 1/10 of a mother that you are! You have made me love my children even more. I did not think that I could love them anymore than I already did! God Bless You Love!

    Reply
  187. Angela says

    February 16, 2010 at 6:58 am

    Kelle-

    You and your inspiration — spreading like wildfire! Everyone should be so blessed to be touched by your art and your words. I am so glad I found your blog two weeks ago now and have become an addicted follower!

    A day late perhaps but love knows no bounds, right?

    Three things I am loving tonight:
    -the sweet memory of finding the most wonderful Valentine’s surprise from my husband yesterday that I burst into tears immediately upon seeing it; knowing that he had planned it for weeks and that my best girlfriend helped him secretly to make it an awesome surprise just for me

    -all the love and goodness that is pouring out of not just your blog but all the comments — it is now my end-of-the-night treat to read your posts and some of the comments from so many that have been touched by you, like me.

    -my amazing family: my rock-of-a husband, my supersmart and hilarious 8 year old boy, and my gorgeous and sweet little Casey Jane, who ROCKS her extra chromosome — just like Nella will!!

    Sending love, thoughts and prayers your way! –Angela

    Reply
  188. Anonymous says

    February 16, 2010 at 7:40 am

    three things…

    _that your writing has absolutely entered into all of my being and made me stop to smile or cry or nod in recognition, or go upstairs to look at my baby girl. when someone “gets” it, it feels so good.

    _that your daughters have you for a mom. they are so blessed. and their families will be so blessed because you have taught them to love and so on and so on…

    _that FINALLY an amazing photographer who is artistic and passionate and that we can SEE the love that you are pouring out of your camera will be used to show the beauty of down syndrome. just that magical and sweet look that we never get to see on photographers web pages or blogs or christmas mailers. i love it. the recognition.

    Reply
  189. Jenny May McKim says

    February 16, 2010 at 2:43 pm

    I “heart” your blog entries.

    Three things I am loving today .. (do I only have to pick three??)

    1. My 10 month old twin girls who no matter how hard of a day they give me I wake up like I did this morning with them both laughing in their cribs..

    2. The fact that Charlotte and Ruby (the twins) do not care if I don’t fit in my favourite jeans yet.

    3. The poor little Robins who are on my snow covered front lawn.. (they are going to freeze their little robin buttocks off.. wonder why they came back so early)

    Reply
  190. ..Soo.See.. says

    February 16, 2010 at 3:26 pm

    Thank you for your blog and your posts and photos. You put into words and photographs what fills my heart with my two little boys. Your daughters are lovely and I want to pull them through the screen and hug them and tell them what a beautiful mommy they have that loves them so! 🙂

    My three things:
    1. My awesome life as a M.o.M. (mom of multiples) – my boys are everything to me and I don’t forget it when I have two crying babies on my lap that I’m trying to comfort.

    2. My wonderful HunHun and how he loves and takes care of us.

    3. The fact that things are as they should be. 🙂

    Reply
  191. April R. says

    February 16, 2010 at 5:21 pm

    Firstly your stories are beautiful. so beautiful.
    -I love how my daughter sits quietly next to me, playing with my face, while whispering sweet nothings into my ears.
    -I love the way she can ‘read’ for hours and hours. I know I put that passion in her.
    -I love the way I wake up to find my husband & daughter dancing away while the moonlight shines through her bedroom. Even though they should both be in bed!

    Reply
  192. Karen says

    February 16, 2010 at 5:31 pm

    Thank you for your beautiful story and photos. Tears well up.

    You have been chosen – and I see that you are thankful that God chose the two of you to be parents of two unique and special girls. Congrats.

    I’m thankful for:
    My husband, who has been fully supportive of me staying home with our son.
    My son, who’s teaching me how incredible it feels to be a mommy.
    My puppy, who just turned 5, and is my daily buddy.

    Reply
  193. Dana W says

    February 17, 2010 at 3:20 am

    Hi Kelle! I have emailed you once after I first read your blog 2 weeks ago. I, too, have become a faithful follower. I want to tell you that I am so in awe of you… for many reasons. First, your passion – to love like crazy – anything you do. Next for your honesty – about life in every sense of the word. And mostly because you are so eloquent with your thoughts, words, expressions, and photography.

    I love your blog. I love your pictures, I love your family. I haven’t met you but I feel like I have known you and in so many ways you know me. As I told you in an email, my son Jacob was also diagnosed at birth with Down’s Syndrome. Jake’s 1st birthday is just 9 days away. It is amazing the journey he has taken me on over these past 11 months and 3 weeks. (and like your story… he has captured the hearts of my family and friends) He is truly an angel and I wouldn’t change a step! I only wish that I would have captured our story in the way that you have done with a journal and pictures. I relived our story a bit through you and am delighted to share in your life. Thank you for blogging! Your words and analogies are remarkable – and so right on the spot. Especially “the bus” – OMG the bus… Just so you know… the bus is very very very faint! You are not alone!!! You are amazing and your family is so blessed to have you as their angel.

    Now… to respond to your request at the end of your Love Day post…
    1. I love that almost 1 year ago – my life changed for the better – and I am still am learning more and more how much better it truly is.
    2. I love my husband & 3 amazingly wonderful children unconditionally- and am so loving our little girl that was supposed to be here celebrating her one year birthday with her twin brother Jake.
    3. I love and admire my friends deeply – that includes the new friends that have been chosen to be in this little fantastic “secret club”!
    Congratulations on your sweet Nella! Your daughters are just beautiful!!!! Lainey is such a wonderful big sister! What a blessing she is for Nella and vice versa. HUGS, Dana. PS… welcome to our secret club!!!

    Reply
  194. LP says

    February 17, 2010 at 4:34 am

    Ha! What I love:
    1) You are Canadian, eh? Love it!
    2) Watching my children fall asleep, eyes rolling, lids heavy….bliss
    3) Holding their tiny hands while they fall asleep. even more blissful

    surely you’re rooting for Canada through the games!

    LP from Canada, Ontario to be more specific

    Reply
  195. Kandid Kelli says

    February 17, 2010 at 2:48 pm

    Hello Kelle. I haven’t been reading for long, I love your blog, you’re so inspiring. I just wanted to tell you that your girls have the most beautiful eyes & you take amazing pictures! I wish I still lived in FL, I would love for you to take pictures of my little one.

    Have a wonderful day!

    xo
    -K

    Reply
  196. LeShayne says

    February 17, 2010 at 9:32 pm

    Things I am loving at this moment…

    1 – your blog. Your blatant honesty and the beauty in that is something we should all strive for!

    2 – My creative kids “skiing” in the living room imitating Olympians!

    3 – Cashmere pajama pants in the cold – perfect for all day not just bed!! (if you’re home)

    Reply
  197. makeupandpearls says

    February 17, 2010 at 11:04 pm

    i know i’m a little late on this one but lots of love to your girls even after v-day!

    some of my three things…

    the sound of the click of my camera
    my fuzzbaby chinchillas getting excited when i come home from work
    warm sheets after a long day.

    Reply
  198. Ernesto Ibañez says

    December 30, 2013 at 3:47 pm

    So nice for Valentines Day. Best regards from CCS, Venezuela. Cool Blog Kelle!!!!

    see also my blog

    Reply

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