The CNN interview will be primetime international, next Tuesday night, March 16th at 4:00 p.m., Eastern Standard time on CNN (can be viewed internationally on CNNI). It will replay twice the following day and will be available on CNN.com. There is a pre-story up on Connect the World’s site where readers can send in questions.
Click HERE to see.
It was going to be aired Monday, but I got bumped by…um, the Black Eyed Peas.
This is crazy. We are humbled. But this is so very cool. If there is the possibility to inspire greatness and to be inspired, we’ll take it. Thank you again.
Very cool! And I am sure you will be awesome and inspiring. Good luck!
betsy
I can’t wait to see it! You have so much to share with the world. I know I’ll be watching!
That is amazing, I think your story has helped many women. Good Luck!
Wow!!! I just LOVE how the universe unfolds. It is humbling…your pictures and words give proof to the extraordinary strength, courage and beauty in deep love. I’m so grateful CNN has noticed too. Isn’t it cool to think of this light and love just circling the globe? Can’t wait for Tuesday next. 🙂 Woo Hoo for you!!! Beth
I AM SO EXCITED TO WATCH THIS! 🙂 THANK YOU SO MUCH for bringing endless joy to lives! THANK YOU!
That is so exciting for you! Just had to let you know again that I’m so thankful for your reminders on truly living in my little moments with my 4 loves before you become a great big star and leave us little people behind 😉
After reading your Poppa’s comment @ the CNN blog, I’m crying happy tears.
I can’t think, I can’t write. Can’t wait for the interview to air, can’t wait for the book, can’t wait for a possible TV show, can’t wait :):):)
I can only feel and I’m so happy for all of you. Can you feel it?
Wow Kelle! How exciting! I knew when I first read Nella’s birth story that it was inspirational and would have an impact so I emailed it to everyone in my address book. What an amazing opportunity, I can not wait to watch it so the world knows the story of your family…
Can’t wait to be inspired!! : )
Thank you…
xo
i can’t wait to watch it.
You on CNN…you & the black eyed peas in the same sentence….so cool. right? that’s cool to say you’ve been bumped by the B.E.P’s.
not to lose perspective, or anything…. but that is COOL!!
This is amazing! You are amazing! I am looking forward to this! Way to go girl!
I’d still rather see you than Fergie, but I guess I understand. 😉 I’ll set my DVR!
!!!! (As a copy editor, I don’t normally use excessive punctuation but after reading the last two posts I have no other option!)
As others who have been reading your blog for a while have said, it was only a matter of time before enjoying the small things caused BIG things to happen!
Wow, Kelle. Just wow! Congratulations!
We don’t get CNN1 though! Wail! Hopefully, I can check it out on the website afterwards. Will check out the CNN link now!
p.s. Loved Lainey with bunny in pushchair, and Nella in bonnet on last post!
Do what you were put on this earth to do – bring hope and educate. Good luck
How truley amazing this will be for more parents and others alike to hear the wonderful story that has touched our lives already! God Bless your family Kelle!
You have been an inspiration to me to look for the beautiful in the everyday moments. Thank you. Good luck!
God wills and allows things to happen. Isn’t it amazing that six weeks ago you may have thought how Nella would have been a hinderance to the things you wanted to do or the goals you wanted to achieve, but God knew she would be the door that would open to these wonderful opportunities. The door is open now run on through.
Very exciting! What an amazing opportunity to teach the world how unexpected blessings can be the greatest joy in one’s life!
Woohoo…life is crazy but isn’t it yummy!!! I am changing my appointments for next Tuesday to see a true Rockstar on TV. ♥
That’s awesome … I hope everyone sees just how normal all of us are, kiddos with DS and everything. 🙂
Wheeeeeeeeeee!!!! Can’t wait to see the interview!
I KNEW you were gonna rock this out! Not just your world but THE world!! You are amazing. Truly are! Gives me goosebumps! You’ve inspired me so much, from day one! I remember a long time ago at the GOlden Apple I didn’t know you but was aware of your photography and I felt like I was seeing a Celebrity! No joke!
Love Madisyn
AWESOME!! thanks for posting this info! I’ll be praying for you all, and the world to hear and receive the message!!
<3 Lori
I will definitely be watching. Thanks for sharing your story.
Totally Awesome!!! Can’t wait to see you guys in living color!
Have you discovered that the people in HOLLAND are the nicest ever??
Yes, yes they are…I rec’v my “golden ticket” to Holland in 1986 with the birth of my son.
Gotta love these tulips.
Guess I know what I will be doing next Tuesday night! Woo Hoo! Can’t wait! Many congratulations!
I write a blog for the Brazilian community living in NY and we all became fans of yours.
The truth in your words and the open and genuine way you share your life is inspiring.
You are helping lots and lots of moms.
Congratulations Kelle!
So so so so very cool!
Inspire on Kelle, this is great stuff, I get to pass it on to those who are not on line to tune in and hear Your wonderful family story… Kelle, we love You and Yours …*warm smiles*
I just read the CNN story, AMAZING! Not to take away from your awesomeness, but your dad is just about the sweetest man I have ever seen. He needs to write a book too! It’s clear to see where you get your incredible spirit from!
Awesome! I’ll be watching most definately. I was told of your blog shortly after Nella’s birth. I love reading your posts and have shared your site with all my friends. Your on CNN for all the right reasons!
Yeah for you!! and Nella!! and Brett!! and Lainey!! And thank you for helping me to heal and grow.
Kelle,
My friend shared your blog last week.
Yesterday, my 21 month old and I baked a cake. Today, I bought sidewalk chalk.
Thank you.
Awesome! I have become one of your adoring fans, you have inspired me so much Kelle. I look forward to watching the interview, reading your blog, and someday, your book!
Kelle – My name is Kelly and I like you gave birth to a precious little boy with Down Syndrome last March. My husband and I were unaware of this precious gift that God had planned for our life and we are loving it!! You are so dear – I feel like I know you and know we would be friends if I lived closer. I love your life – you are an excellent mother and your girls are to die for. As a mother of a child with DS – I AM PROUD of YOU!!! I am proud because you have been so brave and honest and your little world in FL makes me smile. I am so thrilled for the awareness you are giving to Down Syndrome for all the precious ones out there. Thank You so much for sharing your life with all of us.
Congratulations!!! I cannot WAIT to watch. How incredibly wonderful has all of this become? You are an inspiration, and all of us mothers who read your blog are better mothers for it – without a doubt. I knew there was a reason I was so drawn to your blog, yet I’ve never really followed any blog in my life 🙂 Your story, and more importantly your outlook on life, is amazing.
Hey Kelle,
Way to go on the interview. It’s about time someone brings to light the joys of raising a child with DS. Have you happened to see any statistics since your daughter was born? I have read many articles and the numbers are as high as 85-90% of women who abort their children when they learn they will be born with DS. I was SHOCKED to see those statistics. When my son was born 7 years ago I searched every magazine, advertisement and news story that actually used a child with DS. Unfortunately there were hardly any. It is time for the world to be made aware that raising a child with DS is a good thing. Put the word out there for all us DS moms. I guess this story is more about your blog but whatever you can get in there about DS will be great.
Take care and good luck,
Missy
Congrats Kelle! I am so glad that your blog is getting the recognition that it deserves. I came across your blog on a birth board and when I read Nella’s birth story i was completely inspired. My first son was born with a cleft lip and Palate and has had 6 different surgery’s all by the age of 7 years old so i can relate to the feelings you had in the hospital that first night. I have read your entire blog and I am very much looking forward to a book in the future. You have such a wonderful family and such beautiful girls. Keep inspiring us!
Hi! I live in East Lansing, MI and I saw your ex-brother-in-law (joel) at the local elementary school. He told me that you would be on CNN. My son, Joe, has T21 and is almost 7 years old. His older sister goes to school with Somer. I also have a blog: http://emmajoseph.blogspot.com. Mind if I link? I wrote an essay for This I Believe (NPR) about the surprise of Joe’s birth–there is a link on my blog.
Good luck on CNN!!!!
Amy in East Lansing, MI
http://emmajoseph.blogspot.com
woohoo!!! Doing the happy dance over here!! I can’t wait to see this!! You will do great!!!
Very exciting! Your blog is an inspiration to so many of us raising children with Down Syndrome. Your honesty has touched so many lives and Nella’s story is beautiful. My son was born just a few weeks before your daughter and EVERYTHING you have felt…I did too. Reading your blog helped me not feel alone,and know that my feelings were not wrong and I wasnt a horrible Mother for feeling them. Your story has touched my life and I tell everyone about your blog! I can not wait to see the CNN special and I cant think of anyone better to share their story so beautifuly as you!
Yay! I asked a question on there for you 🙂 Congrats Kelle- share your story! Thank you!
awesome!
A friend of mine sent your story of Nella’s birth to me and it is by far one of the most beautiful and heart wrenching things I have ever read. I have been following your blog religiously every day since then. I love everything aboutyou and and your family. I know that no family is “perfect” but I think your family comes pretty close. As in perfect I mean, REAL. Not phony, fake etc. I am so moved and inspired in how you look at life, and how you write your story, that is amazing all on its own! Then your photography work, breathtaking! You have a truly blessed family and I am an official “blog stalker” of yours:) There is always encouragment, and positive reminders in all of your entries and I look forward to that.
So, Kelle I just wanted to tell you how amazingly beautiful you and your family are. I love that so many people around the world (including me from a small little town in Wisconsin) look to you as their inspiration. Thank you for reminding us all to “Enjoy the small things” 🙂
Congratulations and I will try to watch!!!!:)
AWESOME! You deserve it, you are so inspring! Can’t wait to see it!
Good luck with all that…just be yourself, everyone loves you guys…me too! 😀
Good luck with all that…just be yourself, everyone loves you guys…me too! 😀
BEP??? You are so much hotter than Fergie!!! Can’t wait to see it. This is sooooo cool! Congrats again!
ROCK THE WORLD, Mama, Nella, Lainey and Daddy!
And please, don’t forget about us here in blogland! We love you….we REALLY do! 😉
AMAZING. This is the best thing ever.. you SO deserve this. I read your blog every single day and love following this journey of yours. I have an 18 year old brother with DS and remember being in the delivery room when he was born not knowing he had DS and looking back at how far he and we have all come.. what a blessing on our lives. I volunteer with the OC Down Syndrome Association and we just held the annual Red Carpet Ball for all the teens/adults over 18.. it was his first year coming. I’m going to give you the link to the photos so you can see what you have to look forward to with beautiful Nella. I’m a better person because of my brother Kyle.. and you, your family, and every person who ever comes in contact with her will be better because of Nella too 🙂
http://www.flickr.com/photos/withinadream/sets/72157623419842725/ (Alice in Wonderland theme)
I am so glad that you are going to get the chance to share your inspiring story with even more people! I will definitely watch the interview!
AWESOME! I’m so happy for you guys. I find your spirit, story, images, and words to be very inspiring. Keep rockin’ it!
I can’t wait to watch!
I can’t wait to watch!
So amazing! If the CNN piece spreads even a tiny bit of your spirit into the lives of those who have not yet had the joy of reading your blog then the world will be a better place.
Not to sound fawning or anything!
Kelle, this is the perfect example of the amazing things to come for your blessed brood. Expect the unexpected. Enjoy the experiences and continue to ask what the purpose of it all is. I’m excited to see Nella’s story make it big time. 🙂
TIVO set – check.
Justine
Just wanted to say that I love your blog. I think it’s beautiful and so uplifting. Your daughters are beautiful as well. I really appreciate the way you seem to find the beauty in everyday life and how you really enjoy life’s simple pleasures. My little boy was born January 13, 2010, and you’ve inspired me to be a better mommy to him. Thank you!
How Amazing! You really do inspire a lot of people and you’ve lifted my spirits on multiple days. I’ll make sure to watch and keep up the beautiful work on your blog!
CONGRATS! I swore you were going to be known as a somebody in Naples… But now your going to be known throughout the WHOLE COUNTRY! Im sooo proud of you and your family! Im blessed to have you a part of my daily life! Youve moved and inspired me SOOO much! And I agree with Madisyn, when I got your email I felt like a Celebrity replied to me, yes me. Have fun, send my love and prayers…. Lexi L.
That’s awesome!! Can’t wait to watch! How exciting for you guys 🙂
Can’t wait to watch it! You’re so inspiring. I have a 6 week old also and you just make me want to be all that I can be as a Mother. I hope when she’s a little older we have a bond as you write about with Lainey. I show your blog to all my friends. We hook the computer up to my big screen tv and look at your beautiful pictures. I LOVE THEM and I love reading your blog! Looking forward to the book!!
I have just found you and have been going through the posts and the AMAZING pictures that just capture life so well! You have very beautiful daughters, and I bet that little baby girl of you keeps surpassing those expectations!
I am from Brazil and have been following your blog for the past year (started looking at some of your pictures for cute ideas and just fell in love with you and your family). You are such an inspiration and I cannot wait to see your story on TV. You and your sweet family are in my prayers.
This is so exciting… I cannot wait to watch it… it’ll be neat to see the person from the blog on something other then the blog. Your story is beautiful and is one that the world should hear! Oh and by the way, I love the music you play on your blog, I’m a teacher and was doing my weeks worth of lesson plans this past weekend, and had your blog up so I could listen to the music, I’ve since started buying the songs on itunes so I can have them too! Thanks for sharing all you do!
AWESOME! can’t wait!!!
on my way to set my DVR now!! so cool! BTW – CNN made a mistake, they say Tuesday March 15 — they combined the two dates!!
hopefully someone from there will catch it or you can tell them!!
can’t wait to watch!
Can’t wait to see! 🙂
Awesome! Can’t wait to watch it. So happy that I found your blog several weeks ago. I have enjoyed reading it and getting to “know” you through it. I’ve been on this journey (a mother of a child with a severed disability) for nearly 14 years and I wish I could express my feelings as well as you can!!! If you do write a book, I will definitely be buying it!! 😉
You have already inspired me. I am so glad that an even larger audience will have the chance to know you and your amazing family. I tell everyone about you and your blog and how you have changed me. Changed how I look at my kids, myself and the world around me. Simply amazing!
Way to go on making a difference in so many individuals lives.
That is amazing. You and your family deserve all of the blessings coming your way.
will be sure to watch….way to go 🙂
your huge New Zealand fans… 🙂
Wow, congratulations! Your blog, your story means so much to so many people including me, and my mommy friends. I am so happy that what you are doing for yourself, your family, and how you are inspiring so many people is getting recognized. This world needs more people like you.
Brenda
I am SO excited! Congratulations Kelle! I don’t know if you realize the positive impact you are having on the world? I am so proud of you and your family! Thank you!!! *hugs*
this is so exciting! Can’t wait to watch! My sister in law had a baby girl today…who happens to have down syndrome too !What are the chances that my little Bree would have a first cousin who shares this bond of having an extra chromosome?!!
God works in very mysterious ways!!
Hopefully I can watch the interview with her too.
The BEP’s could have taken a backseat to you! But either way I will watch both cause I am a huge fan… of both!
How Glamorous!
congratulations! I’ve enjoyed reading your blog ever since your birth story post. Nella is gorgeous. I used to have a small place in my heart where i really wanted a down syndrome child….your words and heart are so beautiful. Thank you for sharing with the world.
courtney
Setting DVR setting DVR!!! Called hubby and told him…he still laughs at me…cause I heart you so. I cannot wait! Congrats again my dear ‘friend’. As far as the black eyed peas…well, you DID reference their “tonight’s gunna be a good night” so who knows…maybe they read the blog too! 🙂
I am so happy for you. What an amazing way to share your story. You are going to be such an amazing advocate for your little Nella, how beautiful. I think you are going to do big things for our world of Down syndrome. I Thank You for that. You and your family deserve this.
Amy
You really are a rockstar!
YAY!!! I can now tell everyone I know to watch!! Going to set my DVR right now!
Sue
Proud goose bumps for ya friend! xoxo M.
I am so excited for you. I think it is wonderful that you can inspire others, provide hope, joy and encouragement. I cannot wait for the interview! I am going to record it and tell all my friends. I have shared your blog link with so many, and all agree that you are simply amazing, beautiful, and oh so talented. Your family is beautiful! Your blog makes me cry, smile, laugh out loud as well as appreciate life and family…and all the small things! Please keep doing exactly what you are doing!!! We love you.
Okay, gotta love this….lined up with Black Eyed Peas, Carly Simon, Jesse Jackson, etc. You ARE a rockstar. 🙂
Tuesday’s Connector: Kelle Hampton
Friday’s Connector: Jesse Jackson
Monday’s Connector: Black Eyed Peas
Is the Catholic Church doing enough?
Six Degrees: Jesse Jackson to Sharon Osbourne
Should cats and dogs be used as food?
Tuesday’s Connector – Andrew Lloyd Webber
Opinion: Is China Dreaming of Global Dominance?
Thursday’s Connector – Abhishek Bachchan
Wednesday’s Connector: Carly Simon
Yay for CNN!! I knew that it wouldn’t be long before you would be getting phone calls since your story has reached so many!! Isn’t it amazing that when Jennifer Graf Groneberg wrote about a new mom on her blog she didn’t even mention your name(“A few weeks ago, a very beautiful little baby girl with Down syndrome was born into a family–gorgeous big sister, handsome father, lovely and talented mother…..”) yet everyone knew who she was talking about and starting making comments about Kelle and Nella. Wow! You have really made a huge impact and I am so happy and thankful that you are the “voice” for so many of us moms who have children with Ds. Thanks for spreading awareness and showing everyone the beauty (along with the initial shock and sadness) of Ds.
Also, you mentioned that your “Something Happened” post was going to be about “real life”. Along with the laundry, I have a feeling real life for you now involves interviews and thousands of fans! Go Kelle!! I wanted to share what I once read on another blog….
It is hard not to talk about Down syndrome because it’s now such a part of our everyday lives that it doesn’t feel like some separate topic. We live our lives and they are full, and part of that fullness involves Ds.
Congrats to you!! I couldn’t be happier for you!
Love,
Jill B. (Overland Park, KS)
So amazing……I’m so happy for you. Can’t wait to watch the interview 🙂
I was recently introduced to your blog and so thankful I was. I read the story of Nella birth…it is beautiful. Thanks you so much for sharing it. I have a dear sweet uncle, Randy Joe, who turned 53 today. Randy has Down’s Syndrome and blesses lives daily. He smiles from ear to ear constantly…totally basks in the small things…and I love him! Your life may have changed with this birth..but in an awesome, beautiful way. These children are sweet angels from Heaven!
I am excited to see your interview. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us, you are truly inspiring.
I’m so happy that you will be on CNN. I think I read your blog for 2 hours today while my son napped. I sat here and cried and found out what an amazing person and writer you are. Your family was blessed with Nella and I can’t wait to see you on CNN. I look forward to continuing to read your blog.
I was so excited to read this today! Can’t wait to see it! You ARE a rockstar!
I love the music you play on your blog. Do you think you could tell us the titles and artists so we could find them?
You are awesome…I can’t wait to watch it! Good luck 🙂
Kristin (Missoula, MT)
First a confession – I am not a blog fan! But…I was sent your Nella birth story and I have fallen in love with your blog, your gorgeous photos, I am hooked.
Congrats!
I, like so many, found your blog after a friend who has a sibling with downs syndrome posted the birth story.
I am at a completely different point in my life (college student) but love reading your blog for the daily reminders to “enjoy the small things.”
Thank you for sharing 🙂
You better believe I’ll be tuning in – live, to boot!
DVR has really, really spoiled me.
Thumbs up…pat on the back..you are my inspiration!
Can’t wait to see the segment on CNN..I will be front row and center in my living room w/ my bowl of popcorn 🙂
March 16th at 4 pm I am on the plain from Holland to Italy…ehh Florida:). I will watch it on internet. You are a rockstar!!!
I can’t wait to see it! 🙂
Woohoo!
Yay for you! And so glad to hear its international too!
I’ll look forward to watching it 🙂
Allison in Australia
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I truly believe if Fergie could look into the deep pools of Nella’s wise eyes, she would have just stepped aside and said…”I’ve got a feeling…this little girl’s gonna rock our world!” I can remember, sitting next to a tiny basinette in the hospital room, with Nella’s little blindfold shielding her from the blue bilirubin lights abover her, whispering “Where are you taking us, little one?” I was afraid of the journey. I worried I was worthy to follow. I still worry. But lead on, little one. If you can help the world to look upon others kinder and more compassionately, if you can inspire understanding and promote a spirit that kneels to help another than we will follow.
I cannot imagine you reading every comment, but if you do read this… please visit this link. It’s about a family in our community and I immediately thought of you! You are lucky to have been sent this gift.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnr-NyngNI4
when i first read it i thought it said you “bumped INTO the black eyed peas”.
Can’t wait to root you on!!!
(Pictre me doing the ’90’s Arsenio Hall fist in the air move.)
So excited for you and your family! I will be tuning in for sure!
So, today I shared that you were going to be on tv with Gracee…even at seven she says the most profound things..her words were “Mommy can I stay home and watch this..you know things like this do not happen everyday”. And after she left and it was quiet in the house I thought about what she said and I smiled..how profound. We all have stories to tell..my story is about the struggles of infertility and loveliness of adoption..your’s is the story of Nelle…the struggles she may have but the beauty she will bring. I think God hands us platforms to educate, to break barriers and to soften the hearts and change the minds for our children and the children of the future. The first time that I had someone dear to me say “you do not want to adopt..you do not know what you will get and usually you get problems that someone else did not want”..my heart hurt. But I said to her “Honey you do not know what you are going to get even if a child comes from your womb..but you love them anyway and you take that risk”..I knew that at every opportunity I was going to fight such ignorance and hard heartedness. I remember when I was in London and saw the person standing on top of a box yelling his thoughts..trying to change the world. Well our box may be at a street corner, in the grocery store, or with a friend on a soft yellow couch that was just delivered to the nursery of the baby you always longed for, and in your case CNN..but if we want change, goodness and a better life for our children..use the box that God has given you…and do it in your Kelle style…with you inspiring thoughts and images. And I will end this with how excited a seven year old was when I told her that the show was airing after school…so in PA today in a tiny town on a farm with a lovely old blue farmhouse there is a little girl who will someday struggle with hard hearted people, who can’t wait for Tuesday…that is how far your story has touched hearts ♥
Kelle,
I have been reading and following along since the birth of Nella. I have thought about commenting so often.
When I was twenty I gave birth to our second son. We never expected down syndrome. So much of what you say brings back memories for me. I want to tell you that there is so much love. But I know that you have already begun to find it.
I have to say that this road is challenging, but it’s okay. You’ll find your perspective will change and you’ll be happier for it.
Even though you have brought back memories for me, I can find joy in those moments. I wish that blog land existed 13years ago. But I have considered bloging about life now.
I wish your family the very best. I will be tunned in to watch the show. Thankyou so much for sharing your story.
CharityAnn
bcshuks@embarqmail.com
Kelle,
How amazing! WoW! But you deserve it so much! I love reading your stories. You have a true gift of writting and takign photos. I come here daily to see if I can read more!
Thank you for being an inspiration to me!
Kelle this is truly awe inspiring. I have told so many people about your blog! & story. I read Nella’s birth story to one of my Grad classes and there wasn’t one dry eye. I am so happy for you and your family. Congrats!
xo
-Kelli
I can’t wait to see it.
so exciting.
xo
Kelle, How exciting! I will be watching. I love your music on your blog. Would love to know the names of each song. I keep it playing in my office. I am a preschool director and teachers always ask about the music.
Luv
I, like many people, was given a link to your blog after you posted Nella’s birth story. I quickly knew the message that you taught about appreciating the little things in life was an important one and now follow your blog. I am so excited for you and your family and the opportunity to continue to share your story and perpetuate this movement of “enjoying the small things”! You should pat yourself on the back everyday for being a wonderful person and story teller! Thank you for letting us all in!!!
Also…thank you for turning me onto playlist.com and some pretty awesome songs and artists! You ROCK!!!!!
Kelle – this is beyond cool!
Holy shitake! Is this CNN as in C.N.N? What are you going to wear? Forget you, what is Nella going to wear? I say this calls for a full out shopping spree for the whole fam damily! Put Brett in suspenders and Larry King will be calling in no time!
Just call me Nostradamus because I called this years ago in PF Changs you AI girl! (taking congratulatory bow) Please hold the applause.
Did you tell Black Eyed Peas to suck it? Oh wait, that’s not very connector’ish of you to do!
Tell CNN hello and tell them to take off the too thick crawl during your interview so we can see Nella better. 🙂
Good luck!
why oh why can i not find this to dvr?!?! is it not on regular cnn?
how soon will it be on cnn.com? cuz i dont know if i get the cnn international channel. why do i seem to be the only one thats confused? lol.
Wow! Amazing, can’t wait to see it!
I just wanted to tell you how you have inspired me to try and make everyday special for my girls ( 10yrs,9 months) your thoughts and photos are like therapy. thank you for sharing. liz
I can’t find it to tape on DVR either. Please help, don’t want to miss it!
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I can’t wait to see it. I’m gonna set the Tivo right now in case on of my little ones interupts I won’t miss anything.
I have been moved by your blog and your life. I am from a family with two DS kids. My younger sister and my cousin. I am now 28 weeks pregnant. You’ve taken (some of) my fear of a DS child away. Thank you for that.
Amazing. Amazing and beautiful and wonderful!! I would love to get to know you better…
Tara Stoll
This is very exciting and I cannot wait to watch it! Congrats!
WOW….so amazing. I have been following your blog for about a month now and I think I am in love with you and your family and we haven’t even met. I can’t wait to get to work in the morning and log on to see how you guys are doing. You are very inspirational to me. Since I have found your story, your words, and your pictures I have been trying to be a better wife. I have realized I do take too many things for granted. I have a 10 month old baby boy who just blows me away. Well I know you are busy so go have a great day with those girls and I am running home after work and setting my DVR 🙂
doesn’t surprise me a bit! your honesty touches hearts deeply. you inspire me daily! keep being a rock star!
Kelle! Your fabulous and I check your blog every day! Since reading your blog I must admit I kiss and squeeze my kids more throughout the day. Your love for your family has made me realize that I needed to focus on more love with my family rather than all the daily chores that can wait!! I now prefer to sit and watch my kids & have tea parties and play dinosaurs and take a lot more pictures! YOU ROCK!
Thanks for letting me know how I can view it here in Costa Rica! I was concerned I wouldn’t be able to see it….I’m so excited for you and the opportunities that await you. And to think….8 weeks ago you had no idea that you would soon be the face of something so beautiful and precious for the whole world to see.
That is so exciting. I am eager to watch it.
And I just want to tell you that reading your blog has definitely inspired me to make more of every day with my daughter. And also, I have to let you know that I got the link to Nella’s birth story shortly after I decided to have the first trimester nuchal translucency screening ultrasound and blood test for my second pregnancy. I was very very nervous about the screening and at first was afraid to read the birth story post. As I began reading it, however, I realized that no matter what the testing showed, it would all be okay. Nella’s birth story and so many other posts on your blog, both before and after her birth have moved me to tears. Thank you for sharing your beautiful lives!
My daughter ally who is in college had me read your blog. Love it You say all the things in my heart. We have Maddie who is now 6 and yes there is magic in that extra chromosome. It is interesting that story of Holland isn’t it
Wow Kelle that is so amazing. I just told my mom last week that you were going to end up on Oprah some day! 🙂 And here is the first sign I was right! My sister and law and I ooh and ahh over your girls every time you post. I hope I have a little girl, or Jet finds a girlfriend (lol) as cute as yours someday. Congrats on this exciting event! I can’t wait to watch.
I found your blog through a link to Nella’s birth story. It is such an honest, inspirational story. I love the way you are able to express yourself and be so inspiring.
I especially love how you inspire me to do more creative and fun activites with my 2 year old daughter…we sometimes get in a rut being home everyday. You have helped me to embrace the little things and find the joy in it. Just wanted to say ‘Thank you!’ for that…
Perhaps it is sleep deprivation. Perhaps it is my quirky sense of reality. I have read so many comments of people who, like me, find Nella edible…”I could bite her cheeks…I could eat her up…she looks delicious…” I am now recommending whenever Kelle takes her out in the public, she place her in one of those shark cages to protect her. As I said…perhaps it is sleep deprivation. Poppa is addicted to these scrumptuous comments. They are my crack.
This is so awesome. I began reading your blog when someone posted Nella’s birth story on another surrogate message board. Your blogs inspire me and help me to remember the most important things in life…the small things. Thank you for inspiring so many people with your beautiful words and your beautiful family! 🙂
i dont know about anyone else but i would rather see you than the bep’s :)im so happy for you,your gonna do great things.
ps.poppa i would totally eat those cheeks, she is so delish:)
i dont know about anyone else but i would rather see you than the bep’s :)im so happy for you,your gonna do great things.
ps.poppa i would totally eat those cheeks, she is so delish:)
I just had to tell you ~ I was looking through older posts (I came from Elizabeth Foss’s site) and my 17 year old son walked by the computer while a picture of Nella was on the screen and said, “Oh, that baby has beautiful eyes!” and I agree!
Many blessings to you and your beautiful family
Just set my DVR! I also wanted to let you know, again, that I am incredibly inspired by you.
And, off topic, I have a little girl just a little bit older than your Nella and she hasn’t rolled over yet! Go Nella!!
You know you’re making it big when you get booted by the Black Eyed Peas!! Ha! Very excited to tune in and very excited for you and your family!
Kelle. I have followed your story since your second daughter was born. I think you are an eloquent writer and a talented photographer. I am jealous that you belong to Naples and not DC. Above all, I think you are a wonderful mother. Your story has touched me and inspired me to write my own blog about looking for beauty in my own life as a mother, despite the depression-tinted glasses I wear. My life has been so much more joyful since taking this point of view and I owe it to you. I look forward to reading your book.
~Katie
you’re wonderful- your family- your outlook. i can’t wait for all your next posts! you are genuine and wise and so incredibly loving, it’s a true gift to share with the world:) i’m really happy for you and all of us:) I’m looking forward to your interview:)
hugs, LSR – DC
My friend sent me a link to your blog about a week after Nella was born. I sat on the couch to see what “it” was all about. I began reading and couldn’t stop. I read and read until the tears were pouring down my cheeks. I finally went to bed and continued to cry. Reading your story warmed my heart and has also made me reflect on my own life. Since then, I have read your posts daily and find you a true gift from above. Not to mention your amazing story and beautiful family. Your talents are beyond amazing and I wish nothing but the best for you. You deserve everything good that crosses your path. God Bless you. You are a blessing to us all. Congrats on your precious bundle, Nella 🙂 She’s more than beautiful and I love her name. God Hand Crafted her just for you. How lucky you are. Have a sun shiny kind of day~ I am excited for what lies ahead.
You go girl! I can’t wait to see it! Keep up the good work, the love, the laughter and all the beautiful pictures. Don’t know what I love more – your words or your pictures but put them together and they make magic!! I also love to read your dad’s messages and I know how you got how you are!!
Absolutely wonderful news!!! How terrific for you and your little family!!! You go girl!! I had no doubt you would go places and go big!!!!! You rock it like never before!!! Give those girls big kisses!!! And love your Poppa too!
Have fun and enjoy and smile big for those cameras!!!!
It’s not coincidence that you were given little Nella. God has every detail of our lives in His control and He placed Nella with your family because He has big things for you. Just think of what Nella’s life will do for others because you are willing to love her with such passion and share her story with the world. I LOVE getting to keep up with all of you through your blog. My 4 year-old looked at your pictures the other day while I was reading that day’s blog. We watched Nella roll over and celebrated with you all. My 4 year-old was very, very impressed that Nella could roll over like that and wanted her own baby (our 8 week old Isla) to do the same! She said, “I wish we had a baby like that!” : ) I said, “We do, sweetheart! We have a baby just like little Nella!”
Very cool! I look forward to watching it online :).
Just a little giggle Poppa’s way..and you are worthy..we have the pictures to prove it.
Nella totally trumps the Black Eyed Peas, in my opinion!
wow.. is all I can say.. I’m not surprised you get an interview, more that it took them so long. Like so many others, I read your blog whenever you post something new. And on days where I need a bit more encouragement, I re-read many of them again. I thank you for showing how much love there is in this world, in you, your family, and for showing it in words and in pictures. It inspires me to notice the beautiful flowers on the table, the wonderful smile on my daughters’ face, and to not give in to tiredness and day-to-day grind. Thank you! And by the way, I think your dad should be interviewed too! Kelly & Poppa: you rock!
I’m really glad the media is picking up your story, because I think your philosophy of life should be shared…I just know it will touch others.
It touched me very deeply~
I’m not shocked, honestly, your family is a part of my weekly life. I manage to always come back and see more of your most beautiful family and your beautiful photos. You are an inspiration. I need to check our cnn, I’m sure we have it here. I can’t wait. God bless, from, UAE!
too amazing for words. love you!
I’ve been following your blog ever since a friend sent me the link to Nella’s birth story. Words cannot express how you have changed my life! I’ve started to really enjoy my kids for who they are and to enjoy all the little things about them:) Thank you for that! I am soo happy that your story and message is going to be shared with the world!! I will be watching:) Thanks for sharing your life with us!!
You are a very inspirational person… Your words are so pure and from your heart…they can do such good in this world. What I love about your blog is your absolute honesty and your willingness to share these difficult but precious times with the rest of the world.I think you are AMAZING! Keep doing what your doing and keep it real! Your children are beautiful and you have made me realise that things happen for a reason and if anyone can make a difference and speak out for DS- YOU CAN!
Anon- From Ireland!
you should be PRESIDENT OF THE US… You ROCK girl!
…back to read some more comments and just read Poppa’s comment…hahaha—crack! Oh I am laughing so hard….
Everything happens for a reason. And perhaps you, a talented young woman with an eye for photography, a beautiful home and family, an unbroken spirit and a public writing outlet, were given this beautiful gift of Nella so that you could share your story with the world.
Nella could have been born to the house next door (ok, not TECHNICALLY, since those little genes are yours and your husband’s, but in theory), and the world would never have known about her. Instead, she was born into your family. Your voice has given this little baby a voice, and so many others with DS a voice.
And although you didn’t plan for any of this or prepare for any of this, I hope you are proud of yourself when you rest your head at night… You have so much to be proud of. Can’t wait to see your story on CNN.
Kelle –
This is really amazing – I know my mom loved you for a reason.
Look for something from Lope, I’m trying to instruct her on how to use this from Chicago…
You are really inspiring.
xo
Jenne Myers
Wow!! Congratulations!! I’ve been reading almost every day since someone on my birth boards linked to you… I’ve been humbled and moved to tears on more than one occasion.
You’re a beautiful writer and an amazing photographer who has a rare gift. It’s truly stunning.
Best wishes, can’t wait to watch! 🙂
Amy C
Minneapolis, MN
Wow wow wow! Beautiful family, beautiful story. You are truly inspirational!
I stumbled across your page. Someone blogged with a link to your page talking about how inspiring your story was. I’ve become a “follower” and slowy have fallen in love with your family as well. I am so happy for you, and I agree, everything happens for a reason. I think your outlook on your life is so amazing, and inspiring. You are going to help so many people. Thank you for taking the time to let us all in… 🙂 Good luck!!
Saw this video today, and couldn’t help but think that you are achieving exactly what this mother in an empty nest is now longing for.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olSyCLJU3O0
First of all, it appears that you can watch the segments here on the website? I am not sure, but that is what it looks like to me.
http://www.cnn.com/CNNI/Programs/connect.the.world/
You guys will be awesome. 🙂
Also… the Black Eyed Peas are not worthy to share the same stage as Nella. 🙁 They have a song that is very derogatory (unintentionally I am sure) towards people with disabilities. Actually has the R word in the title and it is the majority of the song.
I don’t like the BEP at all, if you couldn’t tell…
Your world (words) is so inspiring and we can’t help but to fall in love with it all. And you know why I think is it? Because you are honest. You take the ugly, as much as the beautiful. The pain and the love under the same breath. Because that is how life is and people need to hear that and need to KNOW it is ok to be pissed, and to be hurt, it doesn’t make you less of a mother or a person and it doesn’t qualify your love for your daughter.
Congrats, Kelle.
You will do great!
So, I’m a teenager who just kind of happened across your blog…and I’m so inspired by you. Like seriously…you live in a way that I’ve NEVER seen anybody live. You live the way that most people want to live…and say they are going to live…and then never do. I don’t think you’ll have any regrets.
Anyway, I just wanted to say THANK YOU for sharing your life with us so honestly and yet joyfully and optimistically. I hope I can someday be half of the mom and woman you are!
And your little girls are the most beautiful thing ever. I wish I had Lainey’s clothes and Nella is delicious 🙂
So I’m not sure out of 167 comments that you’ll notice us but.. I just found your blog today. The picture is my daughter Lucy. I’m looking forward to following your journey.
Kelle,
I happened onto your blog a few weeks ago, and have found your story very inspiring. Your photography is breathtaking & your girls are precious!!
I’m a kindergarten teacher in Pennsylvania, and I have a little girl with Down’s syndrome mainstreamed into my class this year. It is the first time in the history of our school district to mainstream a child with Down’s syndrome.
I would be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous and apprehensive coming into the school year with such a challenge before me. I spent last summer researching every Down’s syndrome website I could get my hands on & had many sleepless nights! However, this girl lights up my days with her adorable smile and her caring & helpful ways. She is absolutely a bright spot in our room each day! She helps other children and is loved by all! I know you have probably been encouraged by many other words from so many kind people, but I wanted you to hear it from an educator…though there are differences, the similarities are many! These kids have such big hearts and add a splash of sunshine everywhere they go 🙂
Best wishes for your lovely family! I’ll definitely tune in to CNN on Tuesday as soon as I get home from school!
Blessings,
Ruthie in Pennsylvania 🙂
You’ll be wonderful and an inspiration to so many. Precious Dear Little Nella~IS INDEED SUCH A “BIG THING.” Your doing great~kid 😉
Just want to let you know that you’ve changed my life. I was forwarded the link to Nella’s birth story, and became so enchanted by your life that I’ve read through your entire archives. So many lines have touched me, particularly the one that said you want your tombstone to read, “She made everything special.” That is *exactly* how I feel about life. For a month now, I’ve been constantly snapping photos of friends and family members, and you’re right — I enjoy my good times so much more when I get to relive them through pictures. I find myself “enjoying the small things” every day, and I’ve begun to keep a journal noting little things that make me smile. This is my story, and I want to write it well. Thank you for sharing your beautiful story with the world. You are a truly lovely woman, inside and out. I want to be like you when I have a family of my own. What an inspiration you are to all who know you! Keep it up!
Kelle, congratulations. You are rocking the community. Amen!!!!
Be our voice and let them know how wonderful it is. xox
Windmills and Tulips
kelle,
you really have a way with words. thank you for making the everyday bits of life so beautiful. i have worked with adults affected by disabilities for several years, and i am so encouraged and excited to see all the love you have for your kids. you will empower them both to become strong, caring, and independent women!
Thank you!
So wonderful! What a great opportunity to reach other families and to raise awareness for children with special needs. You must be so incredibly proud of yourself and your family. I know that I am in complete and utter awe of you and your strength. Reading your blog has certainly changed my outlook on my daily parenting life. Thank you for that. Also…will the CNN coverage be available online or in Canada?
cant wait. who do they think they are bumping you all for the black eyed peas. I would rather watch you all. XO