As I type this, the ten-week-old sleeps on my lap, her pefect head warming my knee, her frail legs dangling comfortably across my thighs and one of her socks, as usual, hanging on for dear life as an almost-bare footie is revealed. And it is with this I’d like to start my post–this adoration for babyhood once again. I never can get over it…this loving having babies. And I can honestly say that I know I won’t look back with regret. I know I won’t want to shake that younger version of myself years from now and tell her to enjoy it while she has it. Because I do. Every bit of it. I savor the weight of her body and the way it falls into the hammock of my arms. I drink in her breathy exhales and the way she roots at my neck when I hold her close, smelling her mama’s skin, wanting more. I cherish every second of nursing, the way her tiny fingers curl around mine, her thin lashes batting as her almond eyes lock their gaze onto mine, the perfect pout of her pink lips as they latch on and the relief of all nine pounds of her as she settles into pure satisfaction. And breathes–in and out, in and out–and with each suck, each breath, it’s as if love is literally moving with the rhythm of our feeding ceremony.
There is such peace in my life when I’m mothering a newborn. Not to diminish at all the beauty of toddler wonders–Lord knows that possesses its own magic–but there is something so raw and beautiful about sustaining the life of the tiniest of forms and hanging on to the remnants of the physical connection we shared not so long ago. She grew inside me and I birthed her into this world and, as she grows and learns and drinks in this universe, it’s just a constant reminder of the amazement and beauty of life.
The girl had me at hello. I may not have known it then, but she did. She had me.
my talented niece, Savannah, took these!
Whew. Moving on…
Our Evening at the Beach…
So, most of our trips to the beach are exactly as I write them…storybook. Family settles into blankets on soft sand, toddler happily makes castles and hunts for shells, champagne is poured, glasses are clinked…”To Life!” we smile…cue pink sun dipping behind horizon. End of story.
The other night was hardly the case.
Lainey had a short nap, so we were pushing it as it was. Enter impromptu decision to head to the beach for sunset with cousins. We arrived in hillbilly Hampton style, dragging pails, dropping cups, soothing cries, and leaving a trail in the sand. I watched as heads turned to take in our entrance, their faces clearly reading please don’t sit next to me. Especially the couple with their wine glasses and picnic basket and boombox playing Navaho flute music. They obviously came to experience some Zen awakening and I’m sure the sight of Smith Family Robinson lying their make-shift blankets next to them wasn’t exactly the spritual night they had envisioned. So, we scooted down a few yards out of Navaho flute ear-shot. And we began our night at the beach.
Poor Lainey cried and wiped her snotty nose on sandy towels, Nella pooped out her outfit and had no socks, and when the wind picked up and my poor baby needed to be fed, I had to use Heidi’s hooded sweatshirt for a blanket which didn’t work out so well so I was left publicly cupping my boob while spring break junior high boys walked by and gawked. Dude, pardon me while I feed my baby the nourishment of her life.
Note to Self: Someday, become the mom who has it together.
You know what? We had fun. And that’s all that matters.
Having my sister’s girls here is a piece of home and my heart never fails to swoon a bit watching cousin bonds form…
Last night, as the bright sun set slowly into the woods behind our house and cast its happy shadows into the yard, the neighborhood kids gathered at our place for a game of “Kick the Can.” We didn’t have a can, so we used a bucket. Consequently, the game became “Kick the Bucket,” not to be confused with the more common understanding of that term.
Nella slept on a blanket in the yard while kids dodged her as they ran for base.
And I stayed close to my girl, guarding her from flying bare feet that came zooming in to kick the bucket.
I love watching Lainey play these grown-up kid games because she doesn’t understand a lick of the rules and yet, if she sees a herd of kids running, she thinks she’s playing too if she jumps in and follows suit.
She is the free-est of spirits–my sprite. And it is only right she has a fairy party because I’m quite certain the girl is part fairy–flittering about, casting her magic, her joy, her independence as she flies.
And fairies are gentle and generous, evident by her sharing of the possession most dear to her heart…Puppy and his all-healing ear. Rub Pup’s ear on any tear, any boo-boo, any sadness and miraculously, all is healed.
Speaking of fairy…the dining room table is currently a happy mess of birthday goodness, its piles of pink tulle and silk flowers towering above seed packet favors and scraps of blossomed fabric. More to come on birthday prep and the fun we’re having there.
Life continues in our home and in yours as well. My heart is so beautifully inspired by the photos and stories you’ve been sending of of where life occurs in your home from the way your mornings begin scrunched together getting ready behind foggy mirrors in small, cozy bathrooms to the kids gathering at the front door anxiously awaiting Daddy’s arrival from work. I’ve received so many stories of the beauty of conversation and love that occurs around the kitchen table–so much that I’m clearing off our birthday mess so we too can reignite our family meals and what they should be.
I have many of your photos to share, but today, these few beautiful ones…
Laura’s favorite lively place: The Playroom. And her words about watching her daughters in this place: “I love to see her imagination go wild. I love seeing her “breastfeed” her babydoll and “talk” on her play phone and be overly expressive with her hand gestures. I love becoming aware of how intently she studies every little thing I do. I love the fact that rather than Mady having a room of her toys and Ashlyn having a room of her toys, we have a communal space of shared toys. What else can I say? It’s just awesome. Period.”
And I love that she, like us, gave up a formal dining room to have a playroom. Best decision ever. And I also love that, if I see correctly, her little’s jammies are on completely backwards.
Belinda’s lively place in her home is her bedroom. In her words, “I love our bedroom. It’s a place for us all to cuddle, to read, to play. I have memories of the girls as newborns, nursing when the house is asleep and I’m the only one awake just watching and smelling that newborn baby smell. Our bedroom is a great big trampoline, a place to heal the sickies, where we give the girls a million kisses and airplane rides.”
And I completely love her photo:
Vanessa admits about her lively place, “when dancing in my kitchen, it feels so full of life that I do indeed feel like there is more than one “me” dancing. My kitchen is vibrant and full of life and is always the gathering place in my home where I can enjoy life with those I love and embrace it.”
And that picture totally makes me wish I was dancing in her kitchen with her.
Finally, Kaitlyn in cold Colorado says, about her lively living room and welcoming couch, “This picture truly engulfs my life as I know it for now, for that couch has so gracefully allowed me to soak in it while I lived through the awful pains of morning sickness. And my little Kodie bear has sat by my side, day in and day out through it all. I must say that I can no longer bend my legs like that since the little baby in my tummy isn’t allowing me to move in such ways anymore!”
I am so truly enjoying the inspiration of life in your homes and have many more stories and photos to share throughout the week. Thank you for sending!
Have a wonderful, lively day… ~k
Kara Brown says
Beautiful!!
Can’t wait to hear all about the party details!
We are doing a ladybug party for my daughter, Anna in a couple of weeks!
Kara Brown
JO says
awww – again, what wonderful prose and photos. Love the lively place ones too.
JO
http://www.teensandtriplets.com
Tanya says
I know exactly what you mean about enjoying all of that newborn-ness. My four and a half month old is out of the newborn stage now and, honestly, I have to admit it makes me a little sad. She is still as cuddly as ever and she definitely wants and needs her mama. But she’s discovered that there is so much out there. Which is also lovely to witness. She has a two year old brother who is infinitely interesting. Watching her watch him is SO cool. I can already see the love in her eyes for him.
But, really, as hard as it can be at times…it would be nice if the newborn stage lasted just a bit longer. Or maybe another baby may be in order in a few years… π
Poppa says
Ahhh…sweet post. I just happened to be at my desk when I got my little alert that there was some sweetness on the cyber highway! Yes, she had us all. For me, a defining moment came when, in the hospital, the words were whispered through the crowd “Lainey is here…” I found that the most painful moment, yet the most profound. Watching the big sister arrive with that restrained yet radiant grin of pride. Seeing her walk in bearing her little heart-given gift to the little sister she had been waiting for so long. For a split second, I was choking back the tears of one who holds a secret that would shatter the joy of this reunion…”She doesn’t know, she doesn’t know.” Then it came, as I was drawn into her joy, and realized “I don’t know, I don’t know.” Lainey was my teacher as she seemed to say, “This is the little one I have been waiting for all along…this is our Nella.” And she had me too…and we’ll never let go. Her beauty melts me. We will rock this out. She will show us how. Gotta run, but you made my morning…you energized my day…I am full now! Love you oodles! Love the special places others shared!
Anonymous says
i have been so touched by your story – by your openness, your heart and your tears – my favourite spot is the third step at the bottom of the stairs – where those last minute hugs before they run out the door happen, where you reassure, double-check and say i love you before the door closes behind them – where you read the teacher’s notes or check how much lunch wasn’t eaten – where they dump out their day’s collection and where you stand when you tell them to get back into bed – it’s not the prettiest place to take a picture but it’s where we can all sit in one tight spot – halloween, christmas, first communion, graduation – those stairs tell the story of my days and when i sit there in the silence of my home – i feel it all again – and hug myself and sometimes shed a tear for days that pass too quickly and little ones that grow up too fast – who now sit beside me instead of on my lap – even the dog has her special step – the stairs are stained with “drips” – food not supposed to go upstairs, tea brought to someone in bed, shoes running up quickly to get something they forgot – i love those stairs and all the memories they hold – thank you for sharing your story, it has been a true gift! god bless you and your family! deirdre
Sarah Broadus says
Great post!! The girls are beautiful as always!! Aren’t nieces great? I have 2 and treasure them!!!
magically ordinary says
You are surrounded by beautiful girls! And, your newborn is just gorgeous.
Reading your blog and looking at your pictures are such an inspiration. Thanks Kelle!
The Full Nelson says
I love your style of writing. Sounds wonderful to be able to just decide to go down to the beach!
Heidi says
All I can say is ,Thank You! I so enjoy ready your blog. It reminds me to remember what is truely important. Thanks!
kim says
love this post, you are a great writer/storyteller & your photography is beautiful!
Tammy B says
Kelle, such great pictures. And love your words. I LOVE that picture of Nella sleeping on the blanket when the kids were playing “kick the bucket”. So beautiful. And Lainey rubbing the puppy ear on her. So sweet.
And you know what I love most? your real life story of going to the beach. All of your outings sound so perfect, so fun. And I sit there and think, if that were my family….there would be whining and crabbing, and dropping and fighting. I wouldn’t be pretty, but it would still end up being fun. So, it was truly nice to hear about the not so perfectness of your outing – ’cause THAT is real life. At least here it is π
Dani says
I hope to also feel like you, in that I will not regret a moment of my 2 girls’ babyhoods. My youngest daughter Vivian just turned 8 months old on Monday. I truly have the panic kicking in, of oh my goodness she will be 1 in 4 months. Now that I have a soon to be 3 year old and have gone through it before, I know how fast she becomes a toddler.
I think our nursing sessions are the proof of the fleeting babyhood, as she is trying to look around half the time to see what big sis is doing and would rather join in the fun with her. However, we still have our before bed nursing, which is a return to the newborn days. She is tired out and so ready to relax in my arms. She cuddles and holds my fingers and falls asleep. It’s the most relaxing, zen-like way to end our day. And my heart bursts as I look at her and get my little piece of newborn back.
Loved the description of your beach trip too, that cracked me up, as I have been on both ends -the hillbilly group scaring everyone as we enter the beach, and the “Navaho flute couple” as my husband and I vacationed in Maui, lol. Living in Chicago though, I have to say that you never have to worry about disturbing the peace as you enter a Lake Michigan beach lol!
Love the photos you chose too. I need to send one but can’t seem to get to taking the picture. I also have a playroom instead of dining room and we love it π Have a great day too Kelle.
Anonymous says
I absolutely love this last photo of you and Nella. Totally natural, beautiful and innocent.
The Bell Family 3 says
Beautiful entry–like usual. Your photos are breathtaking; they make me want to load up and head to FL so you can photograph my daughter!
SDM says
very sweet!
Niki says
Awesome post! I can so you guys heading to beach hillbilly style! lol Love it, it sounds like us walking into a crowded restaurant with our 3 babies!
I’ve always though I was the only person left in the world who loves to breathe life in…literally sometime I just try to take in the longest biggest breath I can! I haven’t figured out which place I want to talk about life in, because its not always a certain place I’m at, its just random moments in time. I’m working on it though!
amy says
this post, as so many have, fills my heart with such joy and happiness. i never tire of reading your every day. thank you for sharing your gifts.
Rebecca MacIntosh says
I forgot what I was going to say about your post because I read your Dad’s comment and it has me in tears. Precious beyond words…
Marie in NH says
Wonderful as always . . . thanks so much for sharing!
Love Nella’s headband!
Nicole says
Coffee: nothin’.
Red Bull: still nothin’.
Turns out all I needed were some Cyderman/Hampton gals smilin’ in the sunshine to wake my butt up.
Happy Morning!
~Nicole
Dani says
Kelle– I am in love with your blog, but I was wondering if you could do a snap back in time…. tell us new followers how this all started. How did you meet your husband? Can we have a wedding pic or two? Thanks for inspiring me!
Jessica says
As usual I love everything you put on little Nella… where did you find that fabulous headband?
Jewllori by Lori says
It’s like we were reading each others minds this morning. The beginning of this post is exactly the sentiments I was feeling this morning. I can’t help but love breathing in all Cali’s baby goodness, and nestling into her as she into me. My heaven on earth.
I will definitely be posting a pic of my favorite place…I hope I’m not too late?!
And oh that picture of Lainey, with disheveled hair, and backwards pj’s!? Pure beauty. I just love it!!!
Shorty says
I can’t fully express in words quite how your pics communicate emotion… so much love and happiness. There is a peace in your eyes in that last picture, a solace that communicates a mother’s true love and contentment. And all the bright colors, even when you’re not adding any color to the edges… I think that adds another element of happiness. I love it that you share your photos, and your story. Can’t wait for you to write a book! : )
Jewllori by Lori says
Oh and Poppa!? Can you adopt me?! LOL!! Seriously Kelle, you have such a rich amazing heritage, I am envious….no not envious, KEEN to do the same for my babies π
Jenny L. says
Leave it to you Kelle to introduce the kids to kick the can. We used to play that when I was a little girl – so much fun with so little trouble. Gotta love the pup’s healing ear…
jen says
i’m seriously enjoying EVERY second of this newbornness too. i can’t fathom not having him in my life. i never thought i wanted boy. and now i can’t imagine life without my baby boy blue.
love this post.
Burtons Blessings says
I absolutely love reading your blog! You are such a good writer and so inspiring to us all. With every blog post you remind me to savor all the moments of life, especially those of our growing children. Thanks for sharing your life with us!
The Johansen's says
It’s amazing how we or I forget to just take time and enjoy all that is precious in our life. I love reading your blog as it helps me daily to go home from work and enjoy the last couple hrs of the day and to take the weekend to hang in pjs just a little longer and embrace the love we feel for each other. I hate that I need a reminder to do these thing, but I’m glad that you are here to remind us. Thanks for opening my eyes and helping me see. Thanks for helping open my eyes to the beauty of little girl. It helps to know that I’m not alone. Luvs&Hugs
Emily says
Your blog is wonderful and beautiful. I love reading about your girls and watching them grow. I was introduced to your blog through Nella’s birth story. I have been an addict ever since. I love coming home from work to find a new entry. Thank you for sharing your life with us.
Rachel McPhillips says
I love your blog! You are such an inspiration to see the little things in life. Your photography is phenomenal. I can only hope to one day be as awesome a photographer as you are. I would love to hear your story on you became one!
Anneliese says
i came across your blog via a link to your birth story. i am 29 weeks pregnant & baby things are always on my mind. your story is beautiful & helps me connect with my little babe (we aren’t finding out the sex) already b/c i know that MY baby is growing…no matter who it is π your girls are precious & i am so excited to read more! xoxo
Sarah says
Note to Kelle: You are the mom who has it all together, simply because you are the mom that knows that living is not in the perfection, but instead in the moments. I wish I was sitting on that beach last night when you and your crew showed up. I would have inched closer to the warmness and love that so evidently shines wherever you go.
Once again thank you for helping me to slow down, hold my baby girl and just be. Love to you, your sprite and your bunny.
Kacey says
You just need to bottle up your family’s magical blend of happiness. I can never escape one of your beautifully-written posts without happy tears streaming down my cheeks. I drank up every last word of this post. As Poppa said, you made my morning.
Fernanda says
Hey, Kelle
What a beautiful bunch of girls your family has, huh? Another beautiful and touching post. Thanks for sharing. Nella doesn’t have the newborn face anymore, I can see a little personality coming out.
Much love.
ps: can I ask you a question? How can you upload your pics with original size and not get them all cut up by the sidelines? Is it a special template?
- Jazzy - says
I love your photography and the lighting is fantastic.
martine says
how how how do your photos have that light? please help x
Nikki says
Kelle, I found your blog after someone linked to your birth story. I cried for you, and addressed my own fears when I read it. What a blessed life you truly have, and I can tell you know and appreciate it. Your family is beautiful and I am envious.
Nicole S says
It’s not fair how beautiful you look with little to no make-up on! π Didn’t you once post a photo of a saying “confidence is beautiful”? well, you are rocking it in that last photo! Seriously!! Sending you our “life” place email soon . . . just wish I could write the way you do!
KWQR says
It is always a good morning when it starts with one of your new posts… love the pics & words shared from others too! Keep them coming please. Find myself craving that newborn-love-bubble… can still remember the feeling… hopefully coming to our house again very soon.
Cheers,
Kate
mrc-w says
Kelle – that first picture is hilarious, because you’re writing about holding Nella in your lap and then there is a picture of Nella on Brett’s hairy legs with his man-hands (I guess I was expecting a picture of you), and now that I write it, it doesn’t seem so funny, but the dissonance when I first saw it made me laugh out loud (at work too!).
I love that Carin’s girls are there! I miss you all so much!
xo
fullsoulahead.com says
I have just recently discovered your blog and I love it! I grew up with a boy with DS in my extended family. His name is Jack and he is now 42.
Your blog is so beautiful, I’ve shared it with many people already,linking to Nella’s birth story on my own blog.
Thank you for sharing your photography and your beautiful life.
lightkeepersdaughter says
Kick the Can!! You know that game?! I’m 60 years old – and haven’t played Kick-the-Can for 50 years – but, what sweet memories those 3 little words brought flooding back to me! Your posts are always so gorgeous – and today’s post and pictures are the same. Such a lovely start to my day – as I enjoy a week’s vacation in my tiny (pop.800), seaside, home town. Thank-you!………Rosemary
Jenny from Wisconsin says
Hi Kelle-
I’ve been reading for a while but haven’t posted yet, so here’s hopefully the first of many!
I found your site through Rosie’s site – rblog.com. and I am so thankful I did.
Your beautiful everything inspires me…family, words, pictures, viewpoints. I check your blog first thing everyday and then often throughout the day.
Thank you for taking the time to share all that you share with us. You truly are making a difference in my life.
Jen
Kelle says
Ha ha, Molly! That’s hilarious. And kudos to your use of the word “dissonance,” you music buff, you.
Donovan Doins says
You know, I decided that being the put together mom would be just no fun at all, and figured that I would offer colorful, goofy, true livin mommy. Better memories are made that way, dontcha think?
Donovan Doins says
You know, I decided that being the put together mom would be just no fun at all, and figured that I would offer colorful, goofy, true livin mommy. Better memories are made that way, dontcha think?
Monica says
Can I just say that I love Poppa? I love the sweet things he says… I love how cute he is and how he loves so unconditionally. He seems so amazing and I think you are so lucky to have him! I’d love to hug you too, Poppa! XO
Karen says
Kelle- What a great post! It made me laugh. We sit at our dining room table, clutter and all, and eat, sing, paint, color, live. It is the place where my baby tries new foods and textures and I cheer him on for finally getting the pincher grasp! I love newborns and my baby boy is almost one and my girl is 2. I love that you post the not-so-perfect times also because that is life! I love your choice of music. There isn’t a time that I read your blog and don’t cry; happy tears, sad tears, reliving-the-moment tears and I’m-not-alone-in-this tears. I love my littles and am so happy that I am their mommy! Here’s to motherhood!!!
RMAinMD says
,,,”monkey see monkey do”,,,i triple love when the “short ones” do their very best to mimmick the “tall ones” all the while having no idea what they’re doing but that’s 1/2 the fun and certainly the most entertaining to the audience (on the sidelines) who is watching and giggling,,,i can’t wait for the pink fairy party while i wish i were on lovely lainey’s guest list (lucky ups man) i will anxiously await to attend the party through your camera lens,,,”oh happy day”
MeAgain says
Awesomeness as always. Thank you
JGeary says
We call breast milk ‘love potion’ in our house because my husband teases me about how gushy I get during and after breastfeeding. The closeness and warmth of our bodies snuggled, the smell of baby and breastmilk, the soft noises and the utter relaxation and nature of it all, makes me want to cry just writing about it. I profess my feelings of head over heels love even more so after a perfect feeding session and by the look in my little ones eyes, they feel the same way. Love potion it is.
Betsy says
I had to laugh when you started this post with “As I type this, the ten-week-old sleeps on my lap, her pefect head warming my knee” and then right below was a picture of Nella on your husbands lap. My first thought was, “man she needs to shave her legs”. Thought it was funny and wanted to share.
Theresa says
I absolutely love how you can take a chaotic trip to the beach and find beauty in it anyway. In a lot of ways you have totally revamped the way I take things in; my perspective on life. And it’s been such a GOOD thing. Such a healing thing.
And the fairy party… Wow. Lainey and Nella are so fortunate to have such a creative and energetic mama.
How DO you get the energy and organization to do it all?!
I’m convinced. You are super-mom. And I hope that by reading your blog some of your super-mom skills rub off π But I’m trying. And that’s a good place to start, I think.
The Babcock Family says
I’ve been reading your blog ever since hearing about Nella’s beautiful birth story. I LOVE your photos, your optimism and your contagious spirit. Keep up the good work! π
I came across this while searching for ideas for my daughter’s 2nd birthday party and thought it might help give you some fun ideas for Lainey’s fairy bash! http://www.hostessblog.com/2010/02/real-parties-fairy-sweet-birthday-party/
~KC: says
Lovely post! I’m also enjoying your readers beautiful stories and pictures! Thank you so much for sharing!
Today’s favorite pictures => “You” holding your amazing Nella :0))
FYI: Nella’s birth story, your Lainey, your Poppa and you had me at hello…
I’m with mrc-w and Betsy! Of course, there is nothing wrong with hairy legs but I’m just glad “that” knee was your husband’s.
The universe operates through dynamic exchange…giving and receiving are different aspects
of the flow of energy in the universe. And in our willingness to give that which we seek, we keep the abundance of the universe circulating in our lives.
-Deepak Chopra
Deana says
beautiful post Kelle!
dig this chick says
What a lovely little read that was! And isn’t it grounding to take photos when sand is flying and kids are crying (seriously? Navajo flutes? That kills me.)? I always find that taking time to snap a few photos in chaos is completely calming and stilling. Because that is what it is…a second in that hot flurry. Makes me laugh at myself instead of screaming and burying my head in that sand.
What lovely little photos and stories people have shared with you! hmmm…inspires me to send you my space.
Glad your nieces are there and having a blast. All girls (and Brandon and Austyn of course).
Oh, AND I love seeing Lainey in the skirt!!!!!!!! Just as I imagined her wearing it all sea salt kissed and romped in. Kiss that girl for me!
karla@westernesse.com says
*Sigh* I’m with you on the wonder of newborn-ness. I’m such an emotional sap
– I was worse with my first one, but I’ll still start crying when I hold my
froggy-legged baby, rocking him to sleep. He’s already 4 months, and he
seems to be growing faster than time flies. Right now, I’m in love with his
baby giggles.
My days more often resemble your day at the beach… er, without the beach.
My little girl doesn’t want anything to do with potty training, so she’s
always pooping through outfits. The baby saves all his poop for every two or
three days, the gives me a nice package to clean up. And I’ll never get used
to nursing in public, no matter how big a tent I’m under.
HA! I took some footie pictures yesterday… but they weren’t all outside and
earthy. I really want some pics of all the family piggies together, hanging
off the end of the bed. π
LOVE the puppy ear picture, and Vanessa’s kitchen. Can we organize a field trip??
Wenona says
I love how you love the newborn stage. I totally try to drink that in as well, and it’s so discouraging when other moms say how they hated that stage. It is a truly miraculous time, where our babies are 100% dependent on us for every little thing. God has made mothers incredibly special and it’s unfathomable how we can love so much.
Also love the pictures people sent in – that’s awesome!
medina family says
I did that with my third child…I got it, totally drank in his babyhood, watched every miracle and understood its awesomeness, let him sleep with us as he so loved, and took amazing photos (to me, at least, a beginner). I remember bits of my now five and six year olds’ babyness…and yes, I took pictures of them…. maybe because it was “long” ago…but this one was different I think. I’m glad you “got it” with your first and now this precious babe. You’re a great mom.
Runningmama says
Hi Kelle…have enjoyed reading your blog. I have a daughter with DS that is 10 months old. I was wondering if you will be attending the National DS convention this July in Orlando, FL. Myself and other DS bloggers would like to get together at the conference and I am also in charge of making badges for fellow DS bloggers so we can identify each other. Interested? If so… email me at livinglifewithes@yahoo.com
Kelli
lindsey says
oh kel…this post is one of my favorites…just gets me….all the families and how they soak in life. your description of the beach trip i can picture in my head and oh the photo of nella sleeping in the driveway…those pouty lips. so sweet. can’t wait to get to my home sweet home now after reading this. xoxo
lindsey says
ps. sammy mac has been walking around with nella’s birth annoucement and showing it to all her babydolls. wish i could catch a picture of her. so sweet.
lindsey says
ps. sammy mac has been walking around with nella’s birth annoucement and showing it to all her babydolls. wish i could catch a picture of her. so sweet.
Sam says
Hi Kelle.
You are so truly blessed, wow. As I believe all people are we just really need to stop and take a moment to find those blessings. Your’s just scream from the rays of sun(happiness) on your faces. You are amazing..your family is amazing, and your dad…and his post…breathtaking. Thank you for sharing these amazing moments with us, I truly enjoyed the posts from other families on their special places, it was perfect:)
jamie says
you, your daughters are a beautiful! Gifts from God!
Jewllori by Lori says
and now I see that the beautiful picture of little girl with backwards pj’s is in fact NOT Lainey at all….ooopsie! Can you say…not fully firing this morning?!
Amanda says
just sent a picture of my lively place and feel like i was given a gift just to write about it and really stew on how much i love it there. i’ve always considered myself a “glass half-empty ” kind of gal….not proud of it but felt like it was just who i was. low and behold just having a good role model has made my glass feel much more full. focusing on the fun and beauty of life is so invigorating!
Louise says
Your Little Present is so beautiful, Kelle. She is stunning, and the picture where she slept on the blanket while the kids ran around the garden just melted me. Oh she is precious – and your prose is exquisite.
Lisa says
I never believed I would fall in love with breastfeeding my daughter like I did. It was hard to give it up after my Regan turned 1. I’m looking forward to doing it again when my 2nd is born in November. Thank you for putting it into words for me! I call Regan “Little” (like you do Lainey and Nella). I don’t know where it came from. My husband use to tease me and say she would get a complex because she is indeed very little (5th percentile) but it has stuck. I call her “Little” and Daddy calls her “Punny”. I love nicknames! Have a good one Kelle- I know you will π
Heidi says
these photos… make me happy. every one of them. love the reader pics…sisters in kitchen belting it out and the playroom colors! all of ’em!
all of the girls together…what an amazing group. i love them all so much. you too dude!
xoxoxo
Anonymous says
WOW Just got done reading your blog today. all the pictures were great, but I have to say the one with Lainey gently touching Puppy and his all-healing ear to Nella’s face was oh so sweet. what a sweet loving sister.
I also enoyed reading the stories & seeing pictures of everyones enjoying life in their homes cant wait to read more.
Deb (poppy) OH.
bethany says
perfect post. loved it.
Marcy Weyer says
I have never left a comment before, but have been reading your beautiful life story since your little piece of sunshine was born. I am a labor and delivery nurse and after all these years, each delivery is still…truly a miracle. I have fallen in love with you and your family. It is sooo wonderful to be re-energized by your posts when I’m having a bad day. I see nothing but life and beauty and love in your words and in your pictures. Thank you for being you and I look forward to many more posts. May God bless you and keep you and yours. Marcy
Kimberly says
can I just say that when I read your blog you definitely do seem to be the Mom who has it all together? Reading posts on the honest happenings of life is very refreshing! Love all the photos as usual.
Becky says
I love your blog but I agree with a previous poster, you definitely seem to have it all together, so reading posts like this are refreshing! π
AngieZ says
I so love reading your blog…seeing it, too. Gorgeous pics of gorgeous kids. I have two, too. Ages about the same. My reason to post though is the music. Love it! But everytime I come here and scroll through the lovely technicolor photos, the first song that pops in my head is Ice Cream by Sara McLachlan. It belongs here. Think about it π
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7I5sixwOQlg
AngieZ says
I so love reading your blog…seeing it, too. Gorgeous pics of gorgeous kids. I have two, too. Ages about the same. My reason to post though is the music. Love it! But everytime I come here and scroll through the lovely technicolor photos, the first song that pops in my head is Ice Cream by Sara McLachlan. It belongs here. Think about it π
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7I5sixwOQlg
wainpa says
So….reader photos? Best idea ever! I love it!
Linda says
The picture of Nella sleeping is so pure it almost made me cry. You are making me wish I had entered the contest! I just wasn’t feeling inspired at the time but seeing those photos sure made me smile.
We gave up our formal dining room so that Lila could have a playroom too. Best decision for our family. We love to peek around the corner to watch her when she isn’t looking!
helene says
Wow, your baby is so pretty.
Kistal says
Hi Kelle,
I have been absolutely obsessed (in a good way) with your blog since a friend e-mailed me a couple of weeks ago with the link to sweet Nella’s birth. I am experiencing life with infants and toddlers from a different perspective – through your lens! I have two beautiful children (21 and 15) and unfortunately I didn’t have this blessed opportunity. My ex-husband left when my youngest was 2 and I raised them as a single mom. Life was hectic and stressful and I don’t feel like I was able to absorb all of their goodness to the degree you have. Yet, as they say, we can’t change the past but we can paint our future. I was fortunate to re-marry an incredible man 7 years ago who took on my kids just as his own. I too fell in love with the “awesome Dad” and with that I also inherited 2 wonderful boys. This marriage gave me new life – and with this new life, the chance to soak in all of the goodness of my kids. I have enjoyed their every breath and I cherish every day that I get to see them grow and mature. God says He will never give you more than you can endure. God entrusted Nella to the absolute perfect Mom, Dad and family. All of my prayers are with you for a very happy and healthy future. Thank you for allowing me to re-live through you a stage in life I feel I lost. The best is yet to come – I promise it gets even better. You won’t be able to stand it.
Liz says
Hi. Thanks for the blog; I come daily looking for some news from you and the lovely family. My uncle James is alomost 60 and has Downs. When he was born they told my Nana to put him in an institution and forget about him; she didn’t. She brought him home and loved him and carved out a piece of the world for him with his family and loved ones. She was a piobeer of sorts, I think and that has impacted my life in a million ways that are heard to explain, some are sad, most are wonderful. When I was very young, it was so important to me to smile at other “different” people, so they knew that I “got” it. I am now a psychotherapist and behavior therapist for people with developmental disabilities. I think of James every day; he made us a special family. He is the reason we are part of this special community ( you are now, too) of people who “get” it- a different perspective and gratitude, I think. Keep those words and pictures flowing!
Rachel says
I LOVE Nella’s eyelashes. They are beautiful! It is one of those newborn things when they sleep all the time and you get to see those beautiful lashes!
Anonymous says
Hey Kelle,
Your post is beautiful as always!
and your pictures are just gorgeous.
I thought you might want to check out clothing by Lilly Pulitzer- her stuff is adorable and looks like clothes you would dress Lainey and Nella in.
I look forward to your next post !:)
Victoria Torres says
Somebody posted Nellas’ birth story on their facebook and I was hooked. I wanted to comment on this blog purposely to really thank you for the beautiful and exciting input you had on motherhood. I am expecting a boy this June and everything you said about the joy of having Nella is how I feel toward my own and he’s not even here yet.
I also love your pictures and i am insanely jealous how great you at them!
Have a great day Kelle!
iColossus / The Monster says
Woman dancing in the kitchen is my hands-down fave of the reader pics, such joy! Although I am jealous that her kitchen is so clean, LOL.
Navaho flute music, made me laugh. Nella pooping in her outfit. Hmmm, I think I’ve been there before. Literally.
And sweet, gorgeous pics of the cousins bonding, wow.
Thank you for so generously sharing yourself, your family, and your life with us. You have a Little Present but you give us the gift.
– iColossus
littlelola says
The last picture in this post….. You look just like Lainey… Identical! well besides the hair color π
Yolanda says
had one of those imperfect days and now looking back at it, recognize it really wasn’t that imperfect afterall.
I so miss that infant stage. I have 2 and enjoyed every moment of my first before it was interrupted by my return to work. I feel like I cheated myself and my son of those newborn moments because with the second I always felt so rushed.
so glad you have figured out how to manage and appreciate it all. I’m sure you are busy with 2, but somehow you make it look so easy.
Gracie says
i can totally relate to the beautiful feeling of breastfeeding. it’s a truly special bonding time between a mother & her child. whenever i feel stressed out, i just close my eyes and think about nursing my baby boy…then i feel all better again. i still nurse him (at 8 months) whenever we’re together. despite all the ‘biting’, i am not giving up. every moment connecting thru nursing with my baby counts, as much as every drop of breastmilk counts π
Melissa says
Beautiful.
Lisa L. says
I absolutely love your posts and can’t wait to see that precious baby every day!!! Thank you. Lisa L.
Momof5 says
What a God of wonders we have! Babies a miracle through birth and blessings so abundant your heart aches at the stretching just to hold them all. While we’re wiping snotty noses and poop laden diapers, life sneaks in and makes it all so beautiful! You’re a wonderful mother as is evident from this blog. No one mother ever has it all together. If they say they do, they’re lying. We may not have it all together, but we have it all. God bless your sweet family!
Kulio says
Your readers have such gorgeous photos! And describing the trip to the beach hillbilly style – I love it – it’s PERFECTION!!!
Jeannett says
#1) You will never be the mom who has it altogether…because there is no such thing. She is altogether a mystical creature that we all believe exists…and much like Santa Clause and the Tooth Fairy, we will learn when we are older than Altogether Mom was also a figment of our imagination and a sad, horrible untruth. Being a Mom is imperfect. It is messy. And as you know, it is beautiful. Our wrinkled grandmothers will laugh at us goodnaturedly as they watch us realize that “there’s no such thing as Altogether Mom?…but I’ve tried so hard all these years!…” and they will smile through their frail skin and say “Yes dear, we thought so too…but She is just pretends.”
Happy Day.
Boo's Mom says
What a fun post! I’m glad I found your lovely blog. It will be fun watching your girls grow. I have to admit that I had a giggle when I read “her pefect head warming my knee,” and looked down at the photo. I think you need to shave your legs. (smile)
Sarah says
Another great post! Your words flow so smoothly. I look forward to each new post to find what you and the girls have been up to.
Lots of hugs to you!!
Crystal says
Love seeing the reader photos of life in their home! I promised myself that I would get around to sending one on myself….let’s see if it actually happens. π
Janita says
The photos of you and Nella outside on the grass with the sun bathing down on you are MAGNIFICENT! Blow those beauties up and hang them on your wall…heck, make them into a blanket. They inspired me to go outside and take a few shots myself – until I realized the 80 km winds currently whipping across the Prairies may slightly impede the process. My pigtails would be flying out at a 90-degree angle and my poor little girl would be tossed around like tundra. It may not come off as serene?! And I particularly enjoyed the photo sent in by Vanessa. I’ve been shaking it ever since.
AnnaLeigh85 says
Love this post! I am still learning with my first born, but I cannot get over him. I was just saying yesterday how much my heart has grown by just having a child.
Krista says
Nella’s eyes are getting even more expressive. She has so much to say, so much to tell, she has the meaning of life hidden within those beautiful expressive eyes.
Beautiful.
Those cousins are beaming love for that little one. π
Looks like such fun! π
heather says
Absolutely LOVE the readers’ pictures–all of them are so good and very inspiring! Can’t wait to see more of them.
You look like a natural with 5 children surrounding you on the beach. π
And I love Lainey’s little tongue that’s always hanging out of her mouth. My kids all do that exact same thing. They get it from their dad. Love to look at the pics of him as a boy, looking just like his kids.
You won’t look back on the newborn years with regrets but you’ll still miss it. I savored every second with my last little one and she is now two. I love the toddler years but knowing she is my last leaves me yearning for that newborn in my arms again, just for a day.
xoxo
GraceesMommy says
Kelle…the picture of Nella sleeping with the pink flower adding the perfect touch to the perfect face..be still my heart. I will just say when I panned down to it Gracee and I said a big “Awhhh” at the same time.
You know nursing a baby is something I never experienced..but the way you described it is how I always imagined it..thanks for sharing those precious moments with we mom’s who never got to experience it…sharing is good.♥
eLiZaBeTh says
I recently found your blog via Domestic Reflections and I am so glad that I did! The photos are beautiful, but I what I truly love & appreciate is your writing. You are funny & reflective & brave & truthful and it is a joy to read your blog. Thank you for shedding some much needed light on my own life & helping me to put some things into perspective. I mentioned your blog on my blog recently. {www.soulsweetness.blogspot.com}
thank you for posting the pictures of your readers…love the dancing in the kitchen shot!
jweinzettl says
It always amazes me how much i totally relate to ALL your posts. I love so much how you describe the way you love your girls and how you love newborns and all the amazing joys they bring. I remember people telling me “Don’t forget to take it all in, it goes so fast”, and me thinking, “are you kidding me?! That’s all I do all day is take her all in- every breath and coo and smell and wiggle.” It’s amazing. And now my girl is 2 so I appreciate your comment about the different, but equally amazingness of toddlers!
I also love to know that even you can have a not so perfect day at the beach with snotty noses and poopy clothes but yet at the end of it all it’s still happy π
I’m working on getting my picture and post of my happy place to you. Such a wonderful idea!
Happy day to you and your girls π
TheCorriganFamily says
Your blog is so refreshing to me. It reminds me of when my Emmy Toes was a newborn and how sweet and cute she was. I cherish your posts as they re-confirm my extreme love and passion for people with Down Syndrome. My Emmy Angel went to heaven 12/11/09 at the age of 2.5 yrs. We miss her terribly. I love that you are letting everyone know how loved Nella is and how much she is a special part of your family just like Lainey. It is so important for people to know that they are perfect angels just like every other child.
My blog is not nearly as inspiring as yours, but it is my outlet to grieve over Emmy’s passing. There’s also a link to her carepage that documents her medical struggle.
emmysangels.blogspot.com
Sarah Ann says
This is amazing and gorgeous!! π
Melody says
I can’t wait to hear all the birthday details! Share as much as you can- I truly lack all of your creativity! My daughter’s 6th birthday is coming up in June and this party sounds like it’s right up her alley. π
I love love love the photos from your readers- so awesome! Every single one of them just reminds me to slow down and enjoy every minute. I get so caught up in the daily rushes of homeschool, cleaning and errands (not to mention baseball) that I will realize I’m not enjoying my days one bit. Your blog truly reminds me that these days are a gift, and they will be gone much too soon.
I have to say, your very first pic up there made me laugh. π You opened the post talking about Nella being asleep on your legs, then the picture had these hairy legs (I know, clearly your husband’s) and it just caught me by surprise. π
GretaLouise and JackBoyer says
I dont’ always comment, because I can’t always find the words. Your words, however, always make a great difference in my day.
I have to agree with you on the wonderful love in breastfeeding. There is nothing like it and I wish sooo much that every mom got to feel the bond and the beauty!
Funny story I thought I could tell you after I read your post about nursing on the beach…. My father stays in a nursing home because he has Parkinson’s Disease. The home is a wonderfully run Veteran’s home. My baby boy Jack (who is 18 months old now) started tugging on my top for a little lunch and he won’t be covered to eat because he likes to look around. I was going to go into my dad’s room so I didn’t scare anyone and my mom said, “No one is around, just do it here, it is ok.” And I did. And around the corner just as Jack was gulping and gulping, came the army! There were around 40 or so! Just walking by to say hi to the veterans…and of course Jack popped off to say hi! What can you do but smile!!
But, anyway, your pictures are beautiful and your smiles make my day!
Thank you! Rebecca
Life with Kaishon says
Your beach night sounds so fun! I imagine the junior highers thought that was a treat like no other : )
katie says
I know I sounds like a crazy person when I say that I feel connected. I just can’t get enough…when I’m done reading your post, I LOVE reading what Poppa has to say too. My heart just gets all warm and fuzzy with the love that pours out of you…and Poppa for that matter. If I ever take a trip to Naples I’m totally going to call you up for a photo shoot! I’m not crazy, I swear. Just in awe…
Di says
I’m not sure what part I like best…the tongue forever licking her chin as she concentrates or the already ‘spring is here’ knees with scuffs from the day showing.
I feel like this site IS MY THERAPY!! LOL
Anonymous says
Kelle, you look so much prettier without makeup! I can really see who Lainey looks like now!
GraceesMommy says
I have to agree with Poppa on the “Lainey making everything ok” moment…STILL my favorite picture of allll times! I have this posted on my blog and my computer but I wanted to share:
“While we try to teach our children all about life,
Our children teach us what life is all about.”
Everyday I am finding that nothing is more true..I am so happy my teacher is a very wise 7 year old who is sharing her view of the world through sparkly glittery rose colored glasses with me. Today she declared that when you are sick (which we are) you should only eat ice cream and chicken noodle soup..I like that..made me smile.
Tamara says
Beautiful photos! You are truly beautiful inside and out… it’s almost unfair how beautiful on the outside you are!
http://www.tamara-camera.blogspot.com
Laura says
Kelle-I LOVE all of these stories that people have sent you….for no reason they almost brought me to tears. I LOVE the dancing in the kitchen! I LOVE that you know you can call me whenever! I LOVE having you in my life again! I love the poop out the outfit at the beach and Lainey being miserable. i LOVE that you can share that will the world, because you know that’s what it’s really all about….and because you do we ALL LOVE you even more.
xoxoxoxo
Anonymous says
Kelle- This last picture of you and Nella is so tender, so real and brings me back to my baby days..that I miss ever soooo much ( my littles are 8 & 5) I wish baby days would last longer than they do…keep inhaling all your magical moments (as you have taught all of us to do by simply sharing your incredible family with us) …breathe it all in deeply…they grow so fast! Your words bring me back to the most amazing time in my life…the baby -toddler years (and like you said, not to diminish any other wonderful stage of our existence BUT there IS “something so raw and beautiful about sustaining the life of the tiniest of forms”)…when your souls lock just with their simple morning smiles and oh! the sweet smell of newborns…heaven on earth!
The other morning when my 8 year old and I were having our ritual morning snuggles in our “snuggle” chair, I had a trip back in time when he was a new born and I was nursing him…his little head at my breast and his tiny toes curled around my side…now his head rests on my shoulder and his feet dangle near the floor… I hugged him so tightly, not wanting to let go of the last of his “littleness”…but his sweet smile still makes our souls connect and he will always be my “little”…
Kelle, thank you for making my little moments shine even brighter and for opening my heart to love even deeper…you are precious gift!
Monique from Cananda
PS LOVE your music…
Anonymous says
Hi It’s Monique from CANADA (the correct spelling!) Was typing to fast! I can’t believe I over looked that! So I just needed to correct it!
Cheers!
Karen P says
Hi Kelle,
I’ve been quietly reading your blog over here since Nella’s birth. I’m a speech-language pathologist and I work with kiddos from birth to three. I’m one of those people like the ones who came out to your home, except on the other side of the country. =) The timely finding of your blog has been such a blessing to me. I find that one of my biggest challenges – and greatest parts of what I do – is to try to crawl inside the hearts and minds of the parents I work with, so that I can serve and help where it’s needed most. I want to know them, love them, really SEE them. Some days that means we work with the little ones; playing, experimenting, problem solving. Some days, it means that we sit, we talk, we cry or laugh, and wade through the general messiness of life to get to the sliver lining – which often is not silver at all, but gold and dazzling and brighter than we ever imagined. Your blog has helped me crawl around in this journey a little more, so that I might love and serve my families better. I don’t yet have children of my own, but each child I have come to know, feeding tube or not, autism or not, hearing aids or not, magic chromosome or not, has changed who I am and how I am able to love others. Their little souls have mingled inextricably with mine and I’m not their mothers, but they are all “my children.” In my home, my living room is where I pace and think for hours about what I can do for each family and little soul I play a part with. I carry them home in my heart, all these little ones. My living room is full of them and the dark and quiet of my room has heard all of their names in prayer. My dining table has heard stories with my husband of agony, rejoicing and hilarity as well as thoughts on how we might raise our own children. My work schedule notebook comes home with me and often sits on the corner of that table were there are presently almost 50 names of little ones (first names only and no identifying information – no HIPPA violations here), that I have known this year – each one prayed for and loved. That little notebook is full of little lives and reminders of their stories. Opening the cover feels like home.