Our park is where it happens at 4:00 in the afternoon. They come trailing in–moms of all sorts–when the sun sits high and the playground mulch is dry and scorching in the afternoon sun. They come pushing strollers, dragging pony-tailed toddlers, wearing blue-eyed boys that peek out from slings that are snugly pressed against their chests. The proverbial park mom. She smiles and smoothes the ponytail sprouting from her perfectly placed baseball cap. She evenly dodges her glance from slide to swings to see-saw to keep careful and equal attention on all three of her kids and if, God forbid, one of them say, falls off a swing, she’s there in a New York minute to spray some antiseptic spray (conveniently stored in an easy access pocket in her diaper bag next to a stash of fruit snacks–organic, of course–and wipes) and kiss a boo-boo. She is completely put together, this Park Mom, and when it’s time to pack up and leave, she gives a little whistle and all three kids line up obediently, like she’s Captain Von Trapp, and follow her to a freshly-washed SUV.
Then there’s another kind of park mom…and, I have to admit, this is why I come to the park. I relate to these ones–these “other kind” of moms–and watching them entertains me in a way none other can. These park moms arrive “in style”, as I like to call it, dragging garage sale wagons full of happy kids with messy clothes. They look “lived in,” shall we say, slightly unkempt but suggestive of a day’s worth of fun. Paint stains. Peanut butter residue. Skipped-a-shower braids. These moms pretend to search diaper bags for fruit snacks to look put together when, really, they know damn well they’ll only find crumbs. They forget their wipes and use their sleeves. They keep an eye on Jimmy while losing track of Little Bobby. And my favorite? Oh the entertainment of watching them leave the park. Round up the kids. Call it quits. They start with a plastered smile as they call up, “Time to go! We have to make dinner! Daddy’s coming home!” as if the smile somehow tricks the kids into thinking leaving the park to go make dinner is actually fun. But then it gets better. After two fake-happy round-ups, it starts to get ugly. Like, “I’m not kidding. We’re leaving. No more slide.” and the smile gradually fades. Of course, Jimmy and Bobby know this is all part of the game because, they’ve been here before, and they know all too well they have like 5 free passes before she really gets mad. So, they slide. They swing. They ignore. Until Other-Kind-of-Park-Mom completley loses her cool and everyone in the park watches as she drags her garage sale wagon, stomps her feet and embarrassingly screams out, “That’ it. Get over here now. I’m not gunna ask you again” followed by that stupid ploy we’ve all done at one point or other in our parenting…the fake “I’m leaving” and the exaggerated stomp out. As if we’re actually going to leave our kids. Of course, by this time, me…the innocent park by-stander is completely laughing and waiting for the big finale. The poor, frazzled mom who finally scoops up screaming grown toddlers and drags them through the blazing hot park mulch, into the parking lot and through the doors of a dirty minivan that smells like day-old Happy Meals.
And that, my friends, is why I like to go to the park.
Not to mention, my girl has a great time.
Evidence A from yesterday’s visit:
And, although we may joke on the probability of a positive E coli test on these digging rocks, can I just say these kids have had all shades of fun scooping pebbles in this heap…and amen to watching your kid have fun. Period.
And, we say we come to the park for our kids…but, let’s face it…this mama finds a lot of beauty in nursing my baby on the pebble pit ledge, sharing stories with friends, watching the afternoon sun hit my little sprite’s golden hair, and hearing her breath catch in the back of her grin as her swing soars toward pillowy clouds.
Thank you, Heidi, for all the mama shots you get. Without you, our family albums would be motherless.
…even if I forgot to pack organic fruit snacks.
And afternoon park sun always lends itself for fantastic shadow shots.
“Hi, Shadow,” we say.
That’d be me & Heidi.
And Flirty Smile just happens to be on my Top Ten Things that Make Me Insanely Happy list lately.
And the other List Topper would be finding frogs that Lainey places all over the house…including, um, Nella’s head.
Speaking of insanely happy, the 400 pictures I went through (with Brett’s help) of your lively homes and the love and the laughter you share there…well, there were many times I was in tears. I hope to share more throughout the month because there’s just that many good ones…that much love. Choosing one to win? Well, that was also enough to have me in tears. My “winner” folder I had widdled all the selections down to still had 100 images in it. How did I choose? A little of everything. I first picked images that spoke to me…ones that ilicited emotion…ones I could “feel” just based on what I saw, and that had nothing to do with editing or photography skill. Then, I had Brett help me…I asked him to tell me which ones he could “feel” life in, etc. Even then, we still had about 30. So, I randomly selected one from those thirty, numbering them first and using random.org to generate a winning number (I’m terrified of not fairly representing!).
So, a few more to share first…
Jennifer:
Life in our home begins in the hallway. After we get our 6 month old
daughter ready for the day, we lay her in the hallway that connects
all the bedrooms (and bathroom). She lays there contently just
watching the hustle and bustle of everyone rushing to get ready for
the day….There’s enough movement and life going on
to keep the baby entertained for a lot longer than one might think
considering she’s just laying in the middle of the floor! I just love
to watch her soak it all in, and I love watching my older daughter
kneel down to give the baby a hug before rushing in to get her socks
from her bedroom.
Tracee:
When we bought our home, before our first child was born, I had grand plans for the living room. I envisioned a space that was impeccably decorated and chic but family friendly. If such a combination existed, I would create it. And then we had kids. Four years and two kids later, the living room is just that–a “living” room. It’s where blocks and books and musical instruments are strewn across the floor, where you can always find a jammied boy rolling a matchbox car across the carpet, where the morning sun shines in from the window and warms the where-did-the-blond-hair-come-from head of my I-can’t-believe-he’s-almost-one year-old…It might not be impeccably decorate and chic, but the living room where my boys LIVE, and that’s what makes it the most lively place in my home.
Carin:
Though our house has lots of spots where memories are made, it is outside our house — in our backyard — where life occurs. I’m not sure if it’s the partnership — the ability to swing alongside your sibling — that evokes the most giggles? Or if it’s the feeling of excitement… when you’re pushed to the highest high, your belly does a little flip-flop with the excitement of nearly touching the clouds? Or if it’s Daddy, who tries to sneak kisses each time you sail past him, often pretending to miss you just to elicit louder belly-deep laughter? Or is it the feeling of belonging… where no matter if you’re a boy or a girl, if you have 46 chromosomes or more… you belong right there, right then, on that swing… in that life.
Whatever it is, it’s magic. And no matter how long you spend on the swing, it just isn’t quite long enough.
Dave and Krysha:
Our lively place is definitely our family room, specifically, my daughter, Grace’s little perch in front of our large picture window. In this spot we watch for the school bus in the morning, watch birds feed, play with playdough, stack blocks, read books – the list goes on and on. We don’t have a lot of space in our apartment, but I sure love what we have. It’s a great place to be…
And finally, our winner of the beautiful fingerprint necklace, I’m happy to announce is…Katelyn:
There is no hesitation in my mind when I think that life awakens in our living room.
This is the place that mommy slowly wakes up in the morning as her toddler is running in circles excited for each new day and what awaits us. Where baby took her first steps and first learned to stand. Each day brings animals wrestling and then snuggling in for naps together. This is the room that breathed new life into an abandoned book which was collecting dust in an attic…This is the room that the cat chases sun spots and gets kisses from visiting sisters/aunties. This is the room that daddy watches on proudly and so in love while his little girl dances in the setting sun. This is the room where a little girl was potty trained and where mommy does all her work at the same time…This is the room that was so deserving of a new coat of paint that reflects the life that happens in there. This is the room where this toddler spends more time naked than clothed because she’s discovered that clothing is overrated.
Our living room is where life happens.
Congratulations, Katelyn! Please e-mail me your contact information to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net and we will get your necklace, with the help of Tina Steinberg, in the works!
Fairy Party Project Table is a mess, which is maybe a good sign…
…and I have returned to the happiness of baking with my girl. I’ve been so busy the past many days, but I’ve made it a point, come 5:30, to stop…no matter what else I have to finish…and be with my girls. Ride bikes in the driveway. Paint “my-yows” on butcher paper on the floor of the lanai. Grab our aprons and lick cake battter spoons. Because that’s what really matters.
And thank you to the commenter who steered me in the direction of this amazing song by Macy Gray…my new favorite.
When I look around I see blue skies,
I see butterflies for us.
Listen to the sound and lose it,
Its sweet music and dance with me.
There is beauty in the world,
So much beauty in the world,
Always beauty in the world,
So much beauty in the world.
Shake your booty, Boys and Girls, for the beauty in the world.
Pick your diamond, pick your pearl.
There is so much beauty in the world.
And the last verse had me in a puddle of tears this morning as I listened to it, dancing with my bunny…
Hey baby, when I’m looking at you,
I know this fact is true.
There is hope for love.
There is beauty in the world.
Hey baby,
Hey baby, when I’m looking at you;
I know this vibe is true.
There’s love…
There’s hope for love…
There’s beauty in the world
Heya throw your hands up and holla
Throw your hands up and holla…
Remember God is giving you beauty in the world
So love (Beauty in the world)
Yeah love (Beauty in the world).
I beg of you, find this song. Load it. Play it. And dance.
Oh, I can’t stop dancing. Love. ~k
Love the post!! Your girls are the cutest! GREAT SONG TOO!
These photos are great. The photo of the little one with her face open and against the glass made me burst into tears…it made me think of my own little guy, it seems like something he would do. Thank you for reminding me of the joy and honor it is to be a mommy.
the park is a grand place, your continue to draw me in with your pictures and your take on the world. i love this little window you let me peek into and see the love for you girls each day. thanks !!
Beautiful post & beautiful photos. Your girls are darling.
I used to be the second kind of mom, happily forgetting stuff, but fairly put together. But these days, I’m the third and everyone watches and laughs at while I tear my screaming kid away, disheveled and overwhelmed.
Yes, I’m having one of *those* days today where it’s all I can do to keep myself from crying my eyes out. Thanks for the lovely pictures.
Hi Kelle,
Finally I can post a message! Loved your words today and the pics, as always are wonderful! What a wonderful day….
Kelle – thanks for another great post to kick off the weekend!
Your pictures are so beautiful! Both girls are getting BIG! Looks like you live in a lovely neighborhood. Would you share with us – where it all started….show us some of your wedding pictures? I think I saw one hanging in the background of one of your pictures today.
Love the images you painted of the park moms – I was just at the park with my three and I definitely fall into the latter category. Though we did get out of there without a scene. 🙂
Love the frog presents that Lainey left for Nella! And that last pic of Nella – her blue top really brings out the beautiful blue of her eyes. Beautiful girls you have there.
I always look forward to your postings. I love the photographs. They are beautifully composed and you also have very beautiful subjects. I am curious, the pictures taken indoors are you using a flash? If so what kind of flash? The lighting always looks so perfect and appears to be naturally lit (maybe it is). I have been trying to photograph my 5 month old and can’t seem to take indoor pictures that don’t look like a flash was used.
I check my blog roll each day- waiting for a new post. Thank you for sharing your life and your photos with us. I am inspired to be a better person because of you…I am the “other park mom” though I try so hard to be the perfect park mom with the organic snacks!
Nella is getting so big!
I’m so glad you posted today. It makes me so happy to click on your blog and find a new post!! I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Thanks for letting us look into your window for a while.
Great post! You had me cracking up over the park moms- at times I’m the put together one but mostly I’m the other one and it’s so true!!
Great post! You had me cracking up over the park moms- at times I’m the put together one but mostly I’m the other one and it’s so true!!
The screaming whiny kid with the frazzled mom? Oh yeah. That’s me.
I actually said the “Let’s go cook dinner for Daddy, won’t that be fun? Don’t you want to go see Daddy?” line yesterday and my daughter screamed “NO” as loud as could be. The only other parent there? A dad.
Awkward, yet hilarious.
Oh, I’ve definitely been that other mom… hilarious. Last time it happened in an indoor playground and it was before Christmas as I was threatening to tell Santa on my 5-year-old unless he came RIGHT NOW.
The fake “I’m leaving” does tend to work with my kid, however. 🙂
Heather
Oh, I would definitely fall into the category of the 2nd park mom! That is too funny…
What an inspirational blog…I love reading your posts and your photos are amazing! Thanks for all that you do to inspire the other moms out there to savor every moment with your children.
LOVED this, from hilarious to endearing, to absolutely precious; what a fantastic blog I’ve found here!
I have to admit that I try so hard to be the “put together” park mom. But, most of the time I am the haphazardly dressed, crazy haired mama who desperately tries to keep track of her “very adventurous” 4 year old while holding her 1 year old who is wriggling to get free. I am sure it is pretty funny to watch. I laughed out loud reading that because that is so me!! 🙂 Very cute post, Kelle!!
PS Love that Lainey puts the buggies all over Nella. 😉
The park mom stories had me giggling, the lively place photos had me teary eyed, and your beautiful photos had me amazed.
Great post.
So I totally pictured you as the put-together mom. I heart you even more now that I know that even if you are, you relate to the other mamas (like, ahem, me)!
great post, sweet kelle! so glad that you guys are busy enjoying life (and sharing it with us)!! still in love with your amazing photography and the love you have for your babes (and life itself.) love the picture of you nursing your little bean.
wishing you and yours a happy, happy weekend!!
xoxo,
april
Thank you for your blog! I look forward to your post and pictures everyday! You’ve inspired me more than you know!
Here is a song I heard on a commercial a few years ago and absolutely love it! My daughter and I listen to it each morning before we begin our day! Enjoy the word!
God Bless!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUqvz2UZcBU
Love the song!! Thanks for a great start to the weekend! I often wonder how you get pics of yourself with your girls – and great ones too! Sadly, my kids scrapbooks will be like a Disney movie – motherless. Sometimes I make a rare appearance if we got a stranger to snap a family photo. You are lucky to have a Heidi. As my chiropracter can tell you I am a card-carrying 2nd mom who all too often scoops up the squirming 40 pounder to get ANYWHERE. I’ve given up being on time for anything or going any where “quickly”. Once I gave up on that I started to enjoy the journey. Have a great weekend!
Thank you for another luminous, gorgeous uplifting post. Love the song-thanks for sharing, I have passed it on.
Here’s another to add to the soundtrack of your life (if you haven’t already-it has made me smile every time for years…)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rL6hlyVAX2Y
Love Nella’s little skirt at the park . . . so cute and sassy! In one of the pictures you can see a blurry wedding picture in the background . . . I would love to see your wedding picture. Also . . . does Nella wear cloth diapers?
Beautiful post as always!
Enjoy the weekend! 🙂
Nella has a classic finger sucking routine going. My 7 year old would only suck the ring and middle finger of his left move. I have a soft spot in my heart for kids that have that same signiture move.
Oooops, I commented on your last post about a song I thought you would like by The Submarines but I gave you the wrong song title. If you want a good happy song for dancing check this one out: “You Me and the Bourgeoisie” by The Submarines. You and your girls will be dancing your hearts out like my daughter and I do almost every morning!
I haven’t commented lately because I’ve been busy living my beautifully, messy, crazy life full of my beautiful children… enjoying similar things that you are like parks, swings and laughter. I couldn’t help but take a moment though to say hello and admire your lovely girls’ smiles and tell you that it was a fabulous idea to share peoples’ “life spots!” Thanks!
Your beautiful girls…! Love the first picture of the frog on Nellas head, priceless!
Just found your blog a couple days ago. I dream of being a photographer, so I often google and look at photos….It is quite fun.
I truly enjoy seeing your pictures.
Seeing them as encouraged me to take my Canon Rebel and simply TAKE more pictures. So….I have been. AND- it’s fun!!! Thanks so much!
God Bless you and your sweet, beautiful girls!
yeah, I’m that “other” park mom. Trying to keep it together.
Love Lainey’s little froggies.
xoxox
Happy Friday to you.
Who can’t use a few frogs on their head now and then? Go Lainey! 🙂
LOOOOOOOOOOOOVE that song so much, too. I’ve been listening to it endlessly and we’ve definitely had a good deal of dancing along happening around here:) Happy Weekend!
Which mom are you?
I am a combo of both 🙂
so gorgeous… again!! I love the ones with the shadow!
Oh I love playground faces…dirty little flushed cheeks are the bestest. And LL’s madras dress and Baby ‘ella’s crocheted diaper cover are so dee-licious I can hardly stand it.
P.S.-you’re totally getting 2 million hits this weekend, ah!!!
xo-nicole
I just started reading your blog a month or so ago and every single day I am amazed by you. Your many talents, ideas (for posts and play things for the kids) and most of all, your honesty. It’s an understatement to say I enjoy reading what you write… I start out laughing, shed some tears and then finish up feeling inspired to be a better person. I look forward to learning more about you and your beautiful, amazing family thru your blog. Thank you.
Everytime I read your blog, I leave feeling refreshed, full of life and positively positive. That, my friend, is what this blogging is all about. Thank you.
I LOVE the park. We are fortunate enough to live literally right across the street from our city park and I wouldn’t have it any other way. We spend a great chunk of or time there and my 7 month old is already in love with the outdoors. Love the pictures. Love the song. Thank you once again. Peace.
Argh, lost my comment! It went something like this. A list for you (gotta love a list!)
1. I know those perfect Park Moms – we call them Yummy Mummies here. I will never be a Yummy Mummy, most of the time I’m a Sort Of Got It Together Mummy and sometimes a Slummy Mummy but let’s not go there!
2. Loved seeing and reading all about readers’ places. Must have been sooo hard to pick a winner.
3. Nella’s Somewhere Over The Rainbow outfit brought a lump to my throat. (It was the song playing when C was born – Israel Kamakawiwo version. I can’t listen to it without blubbing, or it seems see the song title without welling up!)
4. Licensing restriction in this country mean I can no longer hear your playlist – to that I say BAH! I miss the music!
5. Have a good weekend. My husband unexpectedly has to work but I’m “channelling Kelle Hampton” and determined to make the best of it!
6. Lainey and Nella are beautiful.
7. Apologies for long list!
Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww. The girls. They are so delightful. They always make me smile. I can’t get enough of them! In the rock pit! In the mud. In the grass!
Love your winner. Right down to the sippy cup on the floor. Perfection.
I am going to find the song right now.
As I was leaving the park this morning I sighed watching my toddler roll down the grass for the 1000th time thinking “Please don’t roll in the dog poop, please”!
aww I love the last pictures of Nella, and reading the lyrics with her photos got me teary… she is so beautiful.
And Nella with her little skirt at the park!? Cuteness overload!
I love Lainey’s pink sandals, we have the same ones for my daughter…but she still can’t handle the between the toes feeling. She’s an up North baby for sure lol.
I need a Heidi- sadly 99% of our pictures are motherless too 😉
love these pics so much! and the new song ooo sooo cool!!
I just had to laugh at Nella with the frogs on her head. My oldest kept putting stickers on her little sister when we first brought her home! Needless to say, little sister did not like whem mommy had to pull them off.
Beautiful pictures, as always!
Enjoying your happy post (: couldn’t stop smiling 🙂 and your reader’s stories.
LOVE Macy Gray’s “Beauty in the World”!
This is why I love your blog. It speaks to me in so many levels. I can totally “feel” your post’s/word’s energy…
Love, Light and Laughter~
“Every heart sings a song, incomplete, until another heart whispers back. Those who wish to sing always find a song…” -Plato
Hi!
Maybe you could add that song to your blog song list. (I like to turn on your blog when I first get to work and listen to your playlist all day long…).
Love, Dana
i was CRACKING up at your descriptions. i think i fall somewhere between the two. 🙂
and oh that nella. couldn’t be yummier if she TRIED.
I giggled! I’m a GRAMMY, but I’m the same kind of Grammy that I was as a Mommy…I love, love, love my grandkids, but do I even remember to bring the wipes with us when it’s SO likely we’ll need them? I must confess, I don’t–at least not always. But we still go to the park. Sometimes we have to leave & go buy wipes…or band-aids…or bottled water…or even McDonald’s! The great thing about being Grammy is, now there’s a bit more room in the budget to be ridiculously free with my time and money than there was when my husband and I were raising our three. So thanks for the giggles! And the beautiful thoughts.
LOVE the picture of the shadows…remind me a bit of when Peter Pan says “Oh the cleverness of me” after his shadow is attached. The picture is clever and amazing…and even in shadow for you and Heidi are adorable!
The last picture of Nella..she is doing that Betty Boop perfect heart kissy lip thing..sweeet!
I love this one… So very true. I will admit I am somewhere in the middle. We get to the park looking adorable but leave a sweaty mess:) Jana loves swinging. Just wait until Nella can not get enough of it. Her laughter will melt your heart. I love her baby blues in the last picture. Oh and Jana so needs some shoes like Lainey’s. Where did you get them?
Oh my, how can one post have me laughing out loud at my desk, and then a few paragraphs later leave me choking back tears (since after all, I’m still at work)??
LOVED your descriptions of the park mom. But have to say, totally don’t believe that you are that second-mom! Have read through your whole blog now and you always look stunning, in EVERY one of your pictures, your girls always have the cutest outfits, you do awesome fun things with them and you even brought favours to Nella’s birth. So, let’s be realistic, to be that second mom, you have a long ways to fall. Good try at trying to relate to “that” type though! 🙂
And the moments where life takes place? Absolutely beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
I love love love reading your blog. I am so that park mom who loses it when my boys don’t come running when I say that it is time to go. I laughed when I was reading that. Your girls are gorgous. I will have to look that song up and listen to it. Take care 🙂
I was in the park today with my extremely independent, adventurous 1 year old and just had to laugh when I read this… I am definitely a “frazzled” park mom!!!
Thanks for sharing your life with us. Your pictures are beyond inspiring – and let me just say – if I lived even remotely close to you, I would be so honored if you’d take pictures of my family and my Baby Girl! Unfortunately, I do not. So I will keep on dreaming (and dancing!).
Would love to see a close up of our wedding photo – the one we get a peak of from the fairy table pic.
I am amazed by the depth of your love. It SHINES through in your words and photos! 🙂
kell bells!
lol, i think i’ve been dancing to that song since you excitedly told me i had to listen…we’ve baked, danced, and beckham said my butt looked silly. hmmm.
love the photos and the memories we create with the kiddos!
dude, i like the non-park mom mom’s ’cause lord knows when i am rummaging for an organic juice box (hilarious kelle) when my kids scream, i need my other non-park mama to have my back and pull the old water from her purse and hand it my way.
love you
I love reading your blog, so very inspiring! Your girls are such beautiful wee things too.
The park mom descriptions totally cracked me up… I aspire to be a have-it-all-together mom, but alas, am not even close. I owe you a thank you for helping me today… in the grocery store this morning my 2 year old decided to have a major tantrum/meltdown/fit. Was *this* close to getting all of the groceries done when it happened. I played-through… remained calm & managed to get us checked-out & in the car in 5 minutes flat. (A big thank you to the lady in front of me in line who let me go ahead of her as well!) Your inspiration changed my frame of mind about these things… instead of freaking out, I had to laugh… and notice this moment “my son’s first public tantrum”.
So, thank you… you are truly an amazing person!
Cheers,
Kate
p.s. I have really enjoyed reading your older posts as well… my family went through a very similar divorce/crazy period when I was 12… what got us all through to the other side was the strong base of love. We always knew we were loved no matter what. I think that is what helps make *normal* out of nuttiness. 🙂
Love your blog!!!
I have to ask – WHERE did you get Nella’s owl outfit? I MUST have it for my newborn!!!!!
It *is* a great song!
I’ve been thinking long and hard since you started your contest about what room would become our haven once my child is born in a mere 6 weeks. Our house being so small, I can’t imagine that any one room will be specific…I think the entire place will be filled with magic!
Thanks for sharing some of these wonderful places in other people’s homes along with your wonderful family!
Girl, I am SO that frazzled mom at the park, but you know what?
Since I started reading you…I care a little less and just go with it. 🙂
And I am so much happier!
‘beauty in the world’ just made it onto my ‘dinnertime dance party’ playlist. It fits right in! Happy weekend everybody
Kelle,
I don’t know you but wish I did. I have commented before but just have to say that I am struck with the beauty of Nella. She is perfectly beautiful. Both of them are actually. You are truly blessed.
Thank you so much for sharing.
A
THANK YOU for your park descriptions and saying you love the 2nd mom. I am more the 2nd mom than the first and wouldnt trade it. Yes, we might be messy and look “disheveled”, but our life is crammed full of love and laughter and we learn best in “messes”, who learns when life is perfect and put together?
I love the frogs!!
I’m the park mommy carrying the kicking and screaming toddler back to the minivan when it’s time to leave. LOL…How I loved this post. The frogs on Nella’s head made me smile, these are the precious moments in childhood. Thanks for the happy start to my weekend Kelle…Hugs
I am so the “other park mom”. And I always worry that people will judge. It’s good to know that instead they are giggling inside. 🙂
Have an awesome weekend.
Love, love, love your blog!
So many things in this post make me happy:
-the outfit on Nella at the park
-Nella’s puckered up lips in the last photo
-Lainey baking with a batter mustache
-frogs on Nella’s head
-Macy Gray’s song
I love your blog and always find happiness when I come to visit. Thanks for all the smiles!
Recently I went to the park with my son a little too early in the morning because dew was still on everything, didn’t even bring a diaper bag, so I threw caution to the wind and let him use his pants to dry every slide off. Then when his nose began to run I took off his jacket and used it as a tissue. He didn’t mind a bit and we both had a great time! It’s to tough to be completely prepared all the time.
I can’t even pick a favorite photo, as always they are all amazing! Again, I just love that I have this happy post and PERFECT song to kick off a great weekend! Thank you Kelle! You are such an inspiration!!!!
Kelle,
Just stopping by to check on you and the girls. A special thank you to Heidi for the Mommy photos! It so good to see you with the girls. Lainey is growing so fast since Easter….taking on a grown up girlie look. Love the pixie look photo next to the “let me look into your soul” photo! Sweet Nella is getting that baby chubby look that you want to hang onto! Love all you do….
I’m blown away by how stunning your photo are. Each one more beautiful than the last. Sweet babies!
So funny — Rosie was talking about this same song yesterday and played it again today stating this is her new mantra — seems like you and Rosie have lots in common! 🙂
I’m going to download the song right now and dance with my babies before they go to bed!
Oh, so you did see me at the park. Rats! I was hoping no one noticed the peanut butter residue.
Lovely post and pics as always Kelle!
I know you don’t know me, but I feel like you every mom’s BFF. I have a feeling you would be buddies with both kinds of moms.
Thank you for sharing YOU!
Oh, Nella’s eyes are SO BLUE! especially in that cute blue outfit! I love your park description. Real life is so much better than pretendy life. Hey, I follow this other blog and she makes these cute onesies. Looking at your party made me think of it, because she has a onesie with a tutu on it: http://www.etsy.com/shop/natalielovin
Thought you’d appreciate a look-see. My favorite is the baby brass knuckles. Someday… (Oh, it looks like she took some of the designs off including the tutu, but you could probably make one for Nella! :D)
OMG I was laughing so hard at your description of ‘the other kind’ park Mama that my oldest asked ‘what is sooo funny Mom?’ ….and i am laughing cause it’s so me…the leaving part. Although I must admit my wick lately doesn’t allow for 5 passes anymore, more like 2 and they know it! I do sport the organic juice though…and wipes, and i am proud to say that! Haha! Thanks for the laugh and the dose of breathtaking pictures. What a lovely life…truly, just blessed and lovely. Nella going to town on her fingers is my fave….love that little bunny! <><
oh boy, that little nella….i have no words. she’s so beautiful 🙂
oh boy, that little nella….i have no words. she’s so beautiful 🙂
Gorgeous girls, beautiful family…..
Dear Kelle,
I volunteer at a summer camp for individuals with special needs in Texas and at the end of each session, during the “closing ceremonies,” we read this poem aloud to all of the counselors, campers and parents. It’s a ritual that we’ve all come to look forward to, and I figured you would enjoy it as well:
HEAVEN’S VERY SPECIAL CHILD
A meeting was held quite far from Earth!
It’s time again for another birth.
Said the Angels to the LORD above,
This Special Child will need much love.
His progress may be very slow,
Accomplishments he may not show.
And he’ll require extra care
From the folks he meets down there.
He may not run or laugh or play,
His thoughts may seem quite far away,
In many ways he won’t adapt,
And he’ll be known as handicapped.
So let’s be careful where he’s sent,
We want his life to be content.
Please LORD, find the parents who
Will do a special job for you.
They will not realize right away
The leading role they’re asked to play,
But with this child sent from above
Comes stronger faith and richer love.
And soon they’ll know the privilege given
In caring for their gift from Heaven.
Their precious charge, so meek and mild,
Is HEAVEN’S VERY SPECIAL CHILD.
by Edna Massionilla
Your blog and photography are fantastic; please keeping doing what you do.
As always when I do “the second time around” reading your post I spotted another picture that makes me stop and smile. I noticed the picture of the littles playing in the sandbox and the little girl with the pink dress looks like she is dancing to this song..so cute. The song is on my iPod and I am loving it!
Right now I am listening to a slumber party happening in Gracee’s sunroom…So far whe have made fairy dust lollipops, faces are painted like kittens and now “The Squeakquel” is showing..oh how I love all the belly giggles and squealing that is going on. It is just the best thing in the whole world..makes my hearts happy! I would have to say I have days where I am the organic all together mom…but it is purely by luck. Most days I am the mom who is giving change to the cashier with tiny chunks of gum on it that I dug out from the crushed crackers at the bottom of my purse..there is always perfumed flavor enhanced food at the bottom of my purse..it is the one thing you can always count on. Have a Happy weekend. ♥
OOOHHH… where to begin?! I guess I’ll start with that amazing Nella smile — her lips are p-e-r-f-e-c-t!!! they make a heart which is so beyond sweet!! And your Lainey just makes me smile — I can only imagine how your cheeks must hurt from all the smiling she has you doing!
And… Heidi! I want/need someone just like Heidi in my life to come with me to the park, help take pics and be my juice/water/snack back-up person! You are too lucky!!
And, lastly who is the baby next to Lainey in the rock pit who is sitting there with the most adorable headband in her hair?! my first reaction was wow she keeps that in?! and then I looked at the next picture & I think the mom is wearing it!! LOL!
have a happy weekend! can’t wait to “read all about it”!!
xo
-s
Love the song. I will be down loading and dancing with my babies to it. Thank you for that. Another great post and your girls are so sweet. Little Nella is just precious in the last photo with her blue outfit and blue eyes. Love it.
Happy Day!!
Amy
I love to see Nella growing. She is sucking on her fingers, her new favorite toy, I’m sure. Her “flirty smile” is endearing. Thanks for passing along the song too. I enjoy all of the background music you play.
i was never the got it all together momma, I was always, the fly by the seat momma, and I am finding as I have become a grammy, I am the same way. Hey no big deal, my wonderful grandson, thinks I’m perfect and I hope my soon to be born granddaughter thinks the same thing. what matters most is they know I love them, no matter what. They can feel my love and I feel theirs. sweet nella and Lainey, wow can all I say. What sweet girls you have.sigh…..
I love the Macy Gray song!!! I am a HUGE acoustic guitar fan, so i searched YouTube for a cover….found one by Joshua Simon. TOTALLY AMAZING! :o)
Awww my bad day just got so wonderfully turned around! Thank you! I can’t believe I won! I love reading about you and your family. You always brighten my day! I am emailing you now. 🙂
I’ve read your blog for awhile now. I adore your girls, I admire you, I appreciate the beauty you see in the world. But for posting a “NIP pic” (nursing in public) I love you and what you’re doing. Thanks as always for all you give us. I hope you’re getting it all right back.
(And you’re making me wish I would’ve submitted a pic. It’s definitely the bathtub for us. Definitely.)
I was going to say that pink is definitely Nella’s color until I scrolled down a millimeter and saw her in blue! Wow.
Oh good – I am so glad there are other moms who do that when they leave the park too!!! Only you could photograph mulch and somehow it speaks to people- you continue to amaze me kelle!!! As always your girls are “picture perfect”- love the frogs and I too had many of those lovely little plastic creatures in my home. There’s nothing like a little sibling fun to make memories. thanks Kelle for the laughs and inspiration to just go out and enjoy life!!!!
Dylan is only 1 yet and not talking, but I fear I will be the second or third type of Mom before too long. I’ll tell him “No” and he’ll often turn around and give me the cheekiest smile in the world. Oh lord help me when he’s old enough to take places and walk around.
Beautiful pictures as always! I love having discovered your blog and seeing the world through your eyes. 🙂
Wonderful post. I love the flirty smile that’s just too adorable! I love how you just stop your day and be with your girls!!!!!
Okay, so when did you see me in the park!? I have to pick my two year old up EVERY TIME and carry him out!
Beautiful post, again. Your Nella sucking those middle fingers, just too sweet! That always kills me, even more than a thumb sucker, for some reason.
You have beautiful girls! You are truly blessed!
my girlfriend and i laugh a lot about the vibe of one of our neighborhood parks–swank city and we are always scrounging (her little girl was sans pants last week, with one sweet cheek hanging out of her diaper bc that’s just how it goes for her and this woman actually asked my friend, “don’t you want to put her diaper on right?” and we both got all huffy and took our kids to lunch at the cafe instead).
and i have to thank you for linking to that madonna video in a recent post–how did i miss that one? i feel so dorky bc i learned it came out in 2005–i could have been enjoying it for years!
your nella is getting so big so fast! she’s such a beauty. and miss lainey is quite the heartbreaker as well.
One day. One day I will read your blog and not cry like a dork. I used to be that mom at the park, now my littles are not so little and understand things like NO TV or even worse, I WILL TAKE YOUR GAME BOYS. I love that song, going to look it up now. I cant get over how big Nella is getting!
One day. One day I will read your blog and not cry like a dork. I used to be that mom at the park, now my littles are not so little and understand things like NO TV or even worse, I WILL TAKE YOUR GAME BOYS. I love that song, going to look it up now. I cant get over how big Nella is getting!
I love the picture with Nella on her side looking off to the side. My 6mo often gets a similar look while I’m changing her diaper; she looks behind me like someone else is standing there smiling at her. I ask her if she’s talking to her angels and she answers me with a huge grin. We love reading about your life and my kids enjoy the pictures so very much.
Oh my….little miss blueberry eyes (wearing the blue dress in the last picture) couldn’t be any sweeter!!
Love,
Jill B. (Overland Park, KS)
Kelle, thanks so much for posting! I am a little obsessed with checking your blog and love reading your posts and seeing your beautiful pictures and life. What a blessing you have in Lainey and Nella – they are so adorable. God Bless You!
I am a sophomore in college–a long way from being a mommmy! But I stumbled on your blog after reading a little about it on AOL News. I have fallen in love! You are the mom I dream of being one day, and let me tell you, I daydream about being a mommy the way other college students daydream about making big saleries! Your photos are so heartwarming! Please continue to bring your beauty to this world, because it sure does make my day! 🙂 And remember: you’re my hero!
Kelle,
Thanks for the beautiful song! Keep on dancing and I will try to dance with you!
My 3 girls are lying on our lounge floor in the morning sun, and I have the Macy Gray song playing – wow, lump in throat!!! I see the beauty of their bed-hair, dirty feet of my 16 month old’s onesie, my 11 year old reading her book, my almost 3 year old in her grey/pink over-washed Barbie pj’s… the beauty is boundless. Your girls radiate it too. BIG time. Lainey in her art, love of life and sweet smile. Nella in the peace in her eyes, her pleasure found in staring into her mama’s eyes and her rosebud mouth breaking into a smile… all these girls bring me to tear! What a blessing they are!
such a beautiful post- as always! Your imagery through your words and your photographs render me speechless. <3 Nella has her little hands wrapped around my heart. I can’t seem to get enough of your girls!!!!
PLease don’t strap that precious angel into the Bjorn anymore. They’re HORRIBLE for spine development in infants, not to mention they’re hanging from their crotch. I know you have a wrap from previous posts, do you have a ring sling or a mei tai? here’s a link explainging the horror of Bjorns and other crotch danglers:
http://www.sleepywrap.com/index.php?page=stroller-baby-carrier#spinedevelopment
You are so observant! You painted a picture of the two kinds of mums perfectly 😉
By the way, I have been trying to figure out how I can get in more of the photos with my kids, and having your friend snap photos sounds like a grand idea! Can I borrow Heidi!! hehe
Such a lovely site!
Just love your pictures….
Your children are georgeous!
Hugs from Norway,
Tove
Glad that mommy got in the picture, because, can I say, YOU LOOK SMASHING. You do not look like you recently delivered a baby. No wonder the wee girls are so cute.
I like you even more now that I see you allow the tasting of cake batter which is just plain old Duncan Hines from a box. Bonus points that it’s white cake, my favorite! =) Great post. You always say it so well.
Where in Michigan were you from? I saw the pics of strawberry picking at Blake’s Orchard in Armada in Lainey’s book. Just curious. I live in Lapeer, MI.
Hello, just wanted to share I really enjoy reading your blog. My son Connor, 5 has DS and I also have a 7y/o daughter Caroline. So crazy how similar our story and feelings are. I wanted to share I am featured in the May issue of Redbook, Jennifer Lopez is the cover girl. It is about how I manage to make it work, juggling being a mom to 2 kids, one with special needs, working, being a wife to a husband with a crazy schedule, etc.. I hope you get a chance to read it. You have a beautiful family! http://www.redbookmag.com/kids-family/advice/moms-returning-to-work?click=main_sr This is the article on line, in the magazine there is a pic of Caroline and Connor. Hope you enjoy! Ashley Walling
JJ…I used to live in Dryden for awhile! (and Flint too). But, I lived all over in Michigan. Graduated from Spring Arbor University and lived in the Rochester area before coming down here.
thank you for sharing this song with us. i grabbed my one-year-old and we danced around the livingroom while watching his 3-year-old sister run happy circles around us and shake her booty (she was excited to hear those words in a song, because a celebratory “shake our booty” is what we do when she uses the potty or finishes a meal). it brought tears to my eyes to see my son giggle at her antics and her perform for him to this beautiful music.
Kelle, you write beautifully. I love reading your take on parenting and am so inspired by your photography. I hope I can say from one breastfeeding (nursing) Mum to another thank you for publishing the photo of you feeding gorgeous Nella. I love nursing photos and I don’t think we see enough of them !
Rose (Melbourne, Australia)
Word to park mom #2…that’s the category that I fall into. I feel completely validated after reading this post. 🙂
Jenny from MA
A song that made me think of you and beautiful Nella…
“Never Saw Blue Like That” by Katie Reider.
“No one else has ever shown me how, to see the world the way I see it now…never saw blue like that before”
I’m sorry but I don’t see how to e-mail you privately… Have you had Nella’s hearing tested? I am a board certified audiologist. You can feed Nella and then while she is napping, they can do an ABR hearing test. 70% of children that have Down’s have some type of hearing loss. If Nella has some hearing loss, you will want to get intervention for that so that she will develop normal speech and language.
God bless you and your beautiful family! ~Monica~
Ouch! That stings a little to be laughed at – where I may not be perfectly put together as a mom with my hair just because I didn’t have time for a daily shower with my husband leaving so early for work; or my car washed, and perhaps fall somewhere into a middle category – I have received the “side-eye” from mom’s while nursing my youngest at the park all while trying to keep a hasty eye on my energy filled toddler boy. So you forgot about the 3rd type of mom, the judgmental mom, who is huddled with her cronies, making quiet whispers and snarky smiles with turn-in intertwined legs…excluding you from their “mom group”
It’s awful to be judged like that, because you never know what a mom is dealing with. I used to think that all moms somehow got along since they have all “been there” but sadly with child #2, I have found otherwise…:( Makes me extremely sad…
Wonderful pics your friend took though – I hear ya, mama is never in any photos…
Good morning Kelle and family! You simply make me smile! Through your uplifting day-to-day stories and your amazing photography, you have become a spiritual coach for all your followers. Your blog entries brighten my days and have made me soak up ALL the magical moments with my littles (8 & 5). They grow so fast…it seems like yesterday when I too was at the park nursing my baby while smiling at BIG brother as he piled up those tiny pebbles and chased his shadow…enjoy your park days!!
Love, love, love Nella’s flirty smile…she’s going to change this world of ours! She is a true blessing! And her BIG sis Lainey, she will guide her along, simply because of her spunk and love for life itself. I know you hear this all the time…but you are truly a WONDERFUL Mother…our world needs more Kelles!!!
Keep making us smile!
Monique from Canada
…taking a minute from dancing to say thanks for the Macy Gray song…loving it!
There is SO much “beauty in the world”…keep “shaking your booty” and always keeping your eye on the beauty life gives us each day!
Monique from Canada
i love it! all of it! the scattered park mom, the swing pics, nella beans flirty smile, the FROGS on her head! LOL the music.. all of it! i love it kelle…
xoxoxoxoxo
Your blog is certainly one of my happy places and I guess it must run in the family. Today I had my special 13 month old girl on my lap while reading. She was grinning and swaying to the awesome Macy Gray song and reaching for Nella’s picture. I asked her if she liked that little baby and she gave me the biggest grin and reached out and stroked the picture on the screen. The fact that she doesn’t have words just doesn’t matter because she knows how to express her love and happiness so eloquently without them. Thanks for another post full of everything I love about this blog 🙂 McLaine thanks you too 😉
Love the pic of Nella with the frogs on her head. Super cute!
And Nella is sporting a super cute outfit, too!
xo
c
You are officially my music guru!!! thank you for all the great tunes! I get on your site and just let the music play while i clean, play with my littles and dance! oh, i can’t thank you enough for this blog, i LOVE it!
Oh how I laughed today… I tired to be one of those “put together Mommys” and instead of wanting the organic snacks I totted along, my girlie wanted to suck on snails and my son is the child thrown over my shoulder hysterically for a good block before he will stop screaming for ONE MORE SLIDE… so I thoroughly enjoy being The Other Mother now because they have way better sarcastic comments as their child rubs a wad of dirt into their hair!!… Humour is the ultimate attraction!
Clearly, when I have children, I am going to have to move to Florida and be your friend so you can take pictures of my family. These shots make my day, every time I look at them. Thank you for continually sharing them with us.
Hope your weekend is glorious.
Kelle – I love people watching at the park too….and I also know that I have provided entertainment for others at times. My son NEVER wants to leave. I do try the nice approach first, then bribery and then I give up and do the whole body throw of him over my shoulder while he kicks and screams….and I say to myself, “I will never come here again” through grit teeth but always do! I am SO glad that you liked the song. It makes me think of my little love (my daughter Kate’s nickname)…and then of you & your little loves!
All my best to you,
Jillaine
I’m the one who apparently doesn’t watch her child closely enough, so she falls off the swing. Kinda hard to lunge and catch with a baby strapped to your chest. That was fun, in the middle of the crowded playground.
If I didn’t attempt some self-shot with the kiddos, all of our pics would be motherless, too. 🙂
I love Nella’s frogs – it’s totally something my 2-year old would do. She likes to drape her play jewelry across him, complete with a ring around his nose. Hehe.
Mm, Flirty Smiles make life worth living.
Nella in blue, Oh My! Your song beauty in the world says it all. There is beauty in your world with two sweet girls.
You have been graced with the “Sunshine Award!” Please accept & enjoy! Thanks for a great read! Check out my blog to see how to accept
Thanks for answering, Kelle.
You have seemed eerily familiar since I read your first post, even before I knew you had Michigan roots.
You are exactly 5 years younger than me…we share the same birthday…so I am pretty sure our paths would have never crossed in high school activities if you even lived around here back in the day.
My brother lives in Spring Arbor and a good friend of mine teaches at the university. I frequently go to Rochester…Don’t know, maybe we are just kindred spirits. =)
I am typically cynical of Mommy blogs, but I was drawn in by your genuine raw emotion from the git-go. Love it, love your candor and style. Your beautiful pics of your beautiful family are just a bonus!
I think we are all both of those moms.
Day to day or minute to minute, put together, fallen apart.
Fruit leather smartly placed in the right pocket, funky old pb & j.
Sweetly positioned barrette, teeny dreadlocks.
$700 stroller, oops-forgot-my-sling.
Strategically placed cardigan to effortlessly and inconspicuously breastfeed, too-tight tank and too-low jeans that expose the muffin top as a boob clunkily makes its way to a mouth.
We’re all in it together. I’ve never been so grateful for help from other moms when I need a corner to regroup. They see my desperation for a ‘reset’ and offer to hold the door open, scoot over on a bench, wash my kid’s hands so I can change a diaper in the grocery store bathroom.
Love seeing Nella in the wee outfit I loved picking for her! She’s pretty great. Kiss Lainey. xo
My little is sleeping. The T.V. is off. It’s peaceful I must say… which is the perfect time to soak up some kind words and beautiful images. Ahhh – I love life! 😉
Hi Kelle – Mom of three girls here ( 9, 7 and 4). Just in case you think otherwise, you are fantastic! When you have those weak moments that we all have, re-read this. You are amazing! Nella is beautiful! Oh, how I can smell her baby deliciousness from here. Smell her up – that spot in the base of her neck is the best. I live in the NYC area (can you say over-achievers?), and have lived the last nine years in a state of self-doubt. After I read Nella’s birth story, I realize that most of the things that I worried about don’t matter. I am calm now, and I credit you with that. My girls go to school with the most ridiculously mismatched outfits, and I just smile and say “honey, it looks fantastic!” Your best years with Lainie are to come. She is going to be your rock, your helper, your touchstone. Nella will be your love, your cuddler, your sweetheart. Your family is going to evolve into a beautiful unit. Mark my words. Don’t you worry – everything will work out fine.
Hi Kelle,
I love your blog- BUT as a mother of a child recently diagnosed with hip dysplasia I implore you to stop using the Baby Bjorn and switch to something more ergonomically correct such as an Ergo. Research all you’d like, but if prone to DDH at all, a bjorn could magnify the possibility of hip issues due to the baby’s placement.
Beautiful girls you have!!
Love it all! The post, the pictures, and this incredible song! Thanks for sharing your beauties with the world! 🙂
http://nowimamom.blogspot.com
I think you would love the book “Lift” by Kelly Corrigan. I just finished it – it’s a short one-sitting read and is essentially a touching, honest letter to her children about motherhood. I see a lot of connections between the two of you!
Hi Kelle, I have been reading your blog for about 3 months now, backtracked to the beginning…I have quit reading it at work because I cry everytime I read it, which is a good thing, always tears of joy and happiness…my husband and I would like to have babies in the very near future, reading your blog makes me very impatient to expirence everything a mommy gets to expirence with their babies, no matter how old!! Keep the posts coming!! Love them!!!
I gave you a blog award! Come check it out at http://thepsychomama.blogspot.com/2010/04/blog-awards.html
The Psycho Mama
I have a suggestion, and feel free to tell me to mind my own if you wish because unsolicitted advice sucks, but here you go…
Could you create a link to a DS charitable foundation on your blog? You are getting a ton of hits and maybe you could do some good for an arts program or a summer camp…or something. Just a thought!
Yup, that song is perfect for you. I’ve heard it before, but never felt so strongly till now, it’s like your life song!
Beautiful pictures as always, making me wish for a little bit more sun here in dreary Alberta…the sun just does something for a soul.
Oh man, I’ve got your song playing while I look at my little Chickadee, and I am so blessed-Thank GOD for music to help remind us of our blessings 🙂
Have a great weekend my dear, as always,
xoxo,
Lori
so, so much love for your wonderful blog. there is beauty in the world indeed!
I’ve been following your blog for quite some time and I LOVE your blog..your girls..they are completely precious. I know I’m only a teenager but someday..I strive to be just like you. I can’t wait to have a daughter of my own(far in the future of course) and have a beautiful family like yours. Much thanks for all of the inspiration and beautiful photos:)
-Katie
Those frogs on her head are hilarious! I love how much she loves her new little sister! I bet that makes you love her even more if you thought that was possible! Nella is beautious!!
I love all the pictures!! Hope Lainey has a wonderful birthday! How did you come up with the girls names. I love them!!!
i normally love your posts but was disappointed today. i thought the park mom descriptions and your laughing at others was in poor taste. i know i’m not the only one who thought so, and am surprised no one else spoke up.
To the couple readers who misunderstood this post: My reference to the “Other Kind of Mom” was nothing more than a shout-out to moms like ME! I AM that mom…as I said I relate to her. While there are days where I might have it put together, this account was another attempt at a tongue-in-cheek reference to the mother that resides deep within me…the one who forgets fruit snacks and wipes more often than not but loves her girls truly, madly, deeply. There is no mom I would truly make fun of because, let’s face it, there’s no mom that doesn’t exist somewhere within…for we are all a little bit of everything. I don’t laugh “at”…I laugh “with”…because that’s exactly what I hope other moms will do for me next time they see me haulin’ ass out of the park with a crying toddler.
I apologize if you’v answered this question, but where oh where did you buy that “somewhere over the rainbow” top that Nella is sportin up above? I am a Wizard of Oz fanatic, and, well, it’s perfect 🙂 (Much like it’s wearer)
Between Macy Grey and Madonna, I almost can’t stop crying. I needed the life that those songs gave this afternoon! Blessings! Thank you for writing… thank you for letting me into your life… I don’t know what I did without you!
I’ve been following your blog for quite some time and between your words..your pictures..your beautiful story that is only just now in the making somewhere in the middle I realized that I want to be just like you. I want to enjoy all I can of this beautiful life we’ve been given. You inspire me. I just can’t wait to have littles of my own(somewhere in the far future I assure you since I’m only a teenager) but you show me a world in which a united family is possible..and I can’t ever express how much that means to me so…thank you. You’ve inspired, encouraged thousands Kelle. Keep up the good work:)
-Katie
fake leave…its supposed to be fake? oops.
lol i am totally mom #2. or maybe its just that my kid is kid #2 and i’m actually mom #1. hahaha blame my kid.
seriously loved this post.
Now I know what an angel looks like.
I don’t know what I enjoy more, your writing or your beautiful photos. Thank you for sharing your life with us.
PS – Is that camera around your neck 24/7? Your photos are amazing!
Kelle I have a darling 4 yr. old DS son. I have LOVED reading your story. I cried and cried and cried. Our experience was a little different as we knew of Jonah’s DS before he was born. The feelings, the grieving and mourning however were the same. I had to see his face to believe it was really true. There was a split sec. of anguish at his birth when I saw those eyes and knew it was true. Then I was instantly, hopelessly, eternally in love with him. I’m glad the big grief was over before we met him. Now that that’s all behind us, isn’t this a great ride? Jonah is our 4th child. How did we ever think we were happy without him? He is the sun in my day, everyday. My older kids, my husband and I are all so much better people because of him!
Kelle- where did you find that Somewhere over the Rainbow onesie?? Adorable!!
Your blog is wonderful! I did go find this song and it is great! You certainly can’t stay grumpy while you listen to it!! Thanks, I really needed it today! xo
I am that second mom. I am the one that gives the chances before leaving the park. But I am proud to say I am not the mom sitting on the bench attached to her phone while her child is bullying the others.
And where does that organic/wipe mom get her energy?