…we spontaneously decide to head to the pool at sunset. We walk there barefoot and don’t bother to pack a bag but rather drag towels and clutch a balled up change of clothes on the way there and mark our path with wet footprints on the way back.
I like the two-almost-three-year-old that floats like a fish in the middle of the pool, clutching her swimmy, flashing confident smiles as she bobs in the sun-drenched waters.
We don’t do this a lot, so it’s special…and yet when we do come, we wonder why we don’t do it more often.
She is brave and adventurous, fearlessly launching off the cement edge, hands held high, mouth open, anticipating the splash…and it comes, loud and explosive, and yet up she bobs, proud and composed.
He loves the water. And it’s important to him for them to love it too. And so he swims, clutching them close at first…then slowly…gliding them into the welcoming ripples, guiding them all the way. Nella calmly takes it in, more entranced with her daddy than the water though.
And little fish…she drinks it all in…the water, the daddy, the exhileration of being lifted and tossed and caught in his arms.
Yes, we should do this more often.
Got my Popina swimsuit…thank you, Pamela! It is my favorite swimsuit I’ve ever owned! Super retro and very Esther Williams indeed.
I climbed quite a bit of distance up the work mountain today while Lainey stayed with Grandma. And, although I missed her, it was a calm and productive day where my workload was nicely softened with the added blessing of a breathy bundle on my lap through it all. She is so good and while tummy time and play time and entertaining herself is good and all, I find myself picking her up a trillion times and finding ways to snuggle her new length on my lap, in the crook of my arm, over my shoulder while I edit and type and answer e-mails. She’s a very good assistant.
Still though, it isn’t quite complete until they are together…my wispy one and my little Almond Joy.
Loving today…a man whose love for our girls rivals mine so equally, it’s like looking in a mirror.
And to balance out the whole chicken-soup-for-the-soul-ishness of this post, I’ll throw in the fact that I’m also loving a couple things without the sap factor.
Things like my insatiable thirst for cold iced tea with lime and the crazy gratification of sipping it after my drawn out process of making individual cups of it every afternoon.
Things like raiding the pink pile from Lainey’s garden party to score a bag of pink m&m’s and not feeling guilty when I stole them, ate them and didn’t care that there’s one less sugary thing for those kids to sink their teeth in. Mothers will surely thank me.
Deadliest Catch awaits as does my breathy bundles and fresh sheets.
I like evenings when…they end just like this one.
Gorgeous post. And why don’t we all do these thing more often?!? Must do soon.
Something about water photos just make me smile.
lovely post, loevly life and that song ‘daughters’ is just PERFECT for this post! i admire you and hope to be the kind of mom you are one day. that flower in your hair/bathing suit is so cute!
“Almond Joy” an adorable nickname for an adorable baby girl!! It is so good to start them out loving water from the beginning. I took my littles swimming when they were 6 months, and they grew up to be fish just like their father. I hated getting my face wet and had to work hard to show them how to blow bubbles underwater. However, sometimes life’s lessons reverse on you and in 2008 I decided I wanted to be able to snorkel, and from there I became a PADI-certified scuba diver!! All this to say, I loved the pictures at the pool, even though I am slightly envious at your good fortune to be able to have magical swim evenings!
kisses and hugs for little almond joy!!
there is just something magical about evening light, isn’t there? now i want m&m’s….
I LOVE YOUR LIFE and I am so happy that i get to hear and see it!
Deadliest Catch rocks…and so do you Kelle…have a wonderful night, although it sounds like a mission accomplished! 😀 xoxo
I’m jealous of your warm weather! Your girls are beautiful! I love them. But, how on earth do you get them to take such great pictures?? If I could get my 2 in one picture, let alone looking at the camera or smiling, I would be a millionaire!
Thanks for the faq’s and all that you share. You’re an inspiration, and I cannot thank you enough. I know we don’t know each other, but you have changed me in ways you can never imagine. I am such a better mom, sister, daughter, wife and friend.
My goodness, you have a gorgeous family Kelle. I read your blog and then feel so inspired to go and do something great with my day. 🙂
Where on earth did you get that floaty thing for Lainey? It’s perfect!
Everytime I visit your site I am left feeling like everything is ok in the world. Simple, perfect. Thank you Kelle for sharing your life with us. Thank you for writing those beautiful words. Thank you for sharing beautiful Nella and Lainey.
Another beautiful sponatneous day!
You got 71 comments onf your two liner post down below……geez! You rockstar, you 😀
Love Lori
I knew I liked you, but even more so now that I know you watch Deadliest Catch! It is my favorite!! Thank you for sharing your life and your family. They are beautiful and perfect just like the doctor said 🙂
Beautiful post!
In that picture of you with Nella in that swimsuit (is that the new one from Popina?) you look like a little girl holding up her doll!
You probably looked like that as a young ‘un, all excited and proud.
LOVE the ones with Lainey in that Froggy thing, hee!
– iColossus
I love that last picture of your dollies together. Sweet and precious.
Dear Kelle,
I’ve been dealing with the whole special needs life for almost 4 years now. It has been so painful and also very beautiful indeed. I’ve tried so hard to find joy and peace with what this life is about. I know it’s not about having a star football player on the high school team or about having the smartest boy in grade school. But I just never thought this would happen to me.
Sometimes, I just feel so exhausted from the pain of not having a typical son. I even feel guilty. He is so happy and perfect, why should I be mourning? I just love your words. They have spoken peace to me as I realized that it really is normal and okay to feel sorrow.
Gosh, thank you, soul sis, for opening up this special life in a bigger way.
PS: You are so pretty! And your gals, too, of course!!!
LOVE, Bree
(mama to “Bugg” – undiagnosed brain malformation, in a wheelchair, TONS of blonde curls.)
The best 3 posts in a row (OK, after Nella’s birth story and Poppa’s version of course)!!!! I am still sifting through the FAQs and interviews – loving them! And my favorite pictures of all are those of you and Brett looking at Nella, and her LOVIN you both back! You can see your souls connect, it’s so beautiful.
I am going to go cuddle my 16-week old now, maybe see if I can capture a picture of him and his Daddy to treasure forever the momment.
-Jenny
Nice swim suit. 🙂
I love pools at twilight. When we owned our own it was the best time to go swimming. That picture of Nella on Lainey is too precious! I can’t wait to make my son an older brother, but in the future, not now lol.
Ok…so the pictures of Brett and his girls are just so sweet. I have 3 daughters and I FALL hard in love with my husband everytime I catch him loving them up extra good….There’s something different about a daddy’s love….I haven’t figured it out yet, but this I know..the love between my girls and my husband is sometimes silent…sometimes loud and colorful….but it is always there and never futher than a hugs reach. You’re a lucky girl Kelle. Your Brett is one magical daddyhusband. Snuggle in the family bed…close your eyes count your blessings…
saw the nicknames Wispy and Almond Joy and they brought an instant smile to my face! Wishing I could indulge in a sun-filled pool adventure as well but instead am drooling over your sun kissed pics from a snowy Canada. Lovely post!
That last pic of the two of them — with Nella’s squished up little smile from laying into Lainey — LOVE IT! Reminds me of my littles — Danny and his little sis Casey Jane have the same age gap as your girls (although now she is 6 and he is almost 9! Gasp!) Their relationship only gets more special as time goes on.
In fact, for some reason that picture reminds me of my favorite sculpture. (see pic below)
http://www.beavercreekfineart.com/detailCtl.cfm?ThumbType=allartists&InventoryID=1098&RegionID=112
I discovered it one night while on vacation in Colorado when Casey was still a babe. I took one look at it and, maybe it was the wine or the romantic stroll with my husband, but immediately started crying. It is called “Little Mother” and it depicts a young girl holding a baby. The expression on her face doesn’t just show immense love but also an adult, mature expression, that just caught me by surprise. It is how my son looks at his magical little sister. Lainey seems to have that “older sister/protector look” too. It is precious!
On another note, I noticed in a past post that Brett is from and/or worked in Rockford, IL? My husband grew up in Rockford. Went to Guilford High School. We used to visit every year till his parents retired to Wisconsin. I have fond memories of many Christmases and Thanksgivings in Rockford!
Keep the posts coming! I love every word! Your writing and photography inspires me! You inspire me!
Love to you and your awesome family! — Angela
Oh, what a great song! The moment I heard it, the first time I saw Knocked Up, I imagined having my first baby girl, and seeing her with her wonderful Papa……
and just the image of Lainey and Brett in the pool, cheek to cheek, made me laugh at loud! Much needed while I’m away on a business trip, missing my guy and my puppy love, so thank you, dear!! I needed that!!
Much love my friend,
xoxo-Nicole
I’m loving “your life” as much as you do!
Hugs from New Zealand
Before I die, I WILL learn to take amazing pictures like you! 🙂
Makes me ready for hot days and lots of swimming! I love the heaviness we all get in the evenings after some fun water time.
I love you Wispy one, and the nickname Almond Joy is about to make my heart explode with the precious!
Lovely! Sibling hugs are on my list of the most wonderful things on this earth!
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two weeks left of finals and papers…study break = enjoying the small things.
morning playlist = same as above.
I am in love with your blog, you write so beautifully! Your pictures are gorgeous!!!
Where did you get that frog floatie thing, that is awesome!
Thank you for sharing your talent with us!
Such a perfect day Kelle! So glad you could go to the pool. We do that in the summer and we can hardly wait 🙂 It is just so refreshing.
PS LOVE that bathing suit!
PSS Your assistant is the cutest thing out there!
Love this post, love this song PERFECT! And your suit is ADORABLE and SO Kelle! Yes, spring is offically here in upstate NY, which means the inside of my house looks like we have been robbed, but we are having SO much fun! 🙂 We muck it out every couple of days, just because 😉
Enjoy!
Kristi
The pics of nella smooshed into your husband’s chest kind of takes your breath away! I think a daddy holding his baby is just so amazing to watch – something about how small, yet safe they look snuggled up…
And of course Lainey is just precious!!
xo
-s
Another beautiful post, Kelle!
love love love. thanks for making my day.
Aw, I love that last picture!
And tea with lime sounds delish! I will have to try it! 🙂
i wish i had the weather here in oklahoma to go to a pool haha so windy in here. your girls are gourgeous!!!! Laineys sweet soul can be seen in her smile. shes a very special kid. And Nella, oh God. those blue eyes just came as an extra to fall in love. shes the sweetest thing ever
That last picture — OMGosh. There just aren’t words.
Great swimming pictures! I’m so jealous–it was hailing and raining all day up here in the pacific northwest. We are a loooong time away from swimming outside, LOL. 🙂
Just stunning. I think I’m addicted to your blog. Your energy.
I want to bottle it all up.
I hope you realise how brilliant you are and how deeply you affect strangers like me <3
I love the babies snuggling!! I don’t have the nerve to tell my husband this, but I wasn’t sure I wanted a second one anymore, after a rough start for my little guy. Your words and pictures have me back at wanting three- their bond is amazing already! I am so excited to see Rowan share that with future siblings!
that last one is extra precious – and the one of you all glam at the pool wow you are a hot mumma – I certainly dont rock it out like that at the pool. And have to fess up to a bit of togs/swimmer envy. Red polka dots – 50s style v cute (mmmm memo to me – grow hair long again ! Take more photos. Go to pool more. Thank my husband for loving our kids as much as I do) Thanks Kelle for all these reminders and for yet another glimpse ar your two lovelies and such great photos and words x
Absolutely love all the beautiful posts on your blog. Your family is just gorgeous!
Once again you’ve inspired me… to buy a “starter” DSLR and to get back into my hobby I left in high school! I see too that you’ve acquired yet another retro inspired bathing suit. I love it! Your girls are precious together and Lainey is an amazing big sister! 🙂
Lovely post..Beautiful pictures 🙂
Loving the daddy daughter pics with Brett and the girls….Something in his eyes tells me Nella is going to be his special girl and he is going to make a huge difference in that baby’s life. As usual, Lainey is so impishly beautiful…I just want to dive right in and play splashy pool games with her…Thanks for the smile Kelle!!!
Wow, your girls are just beyond beautiful! I love your photography so much!
You have such an amazing eye, and of course the photos of your girls are shot with such love thru your lens.
The photo of you and Lainey a few posts down with you holding your camera up in the photo and both your faces close up, (on the Elmo birthday party post) shows the most amazing resemblance between the two of you! She is YOUR TWIN! She also looks like your Poppa as well! Love how all 3 of you have bangs! Too cool!!!
Your father aka Poppa moved me to tears as I read his account of The Corridor. The two of you NEED to write a book together one day!! Your wonderful hubby sounds like a true rock and the love he has for his girls( you included) just renews my faith that real wonderful men like him and your daddy truly exist in this world.
You are one blessed lady, Miss Kelle Hampton! Keep on writing and rocking your style!
Awesome pool pics Kelle, Brett does lavish His girl’s with Daddy lovings, only a Good Man can do as He does, count Your blessings sweet Kelle, for they are of plenty… And BTW, You look fabulously HOT in Your new red hot vintage polka dots bathing suit, You and the girl’s such beauty’s, How could Brett resists, inside and out sweet Kelle
…BEAUTIFUL…
And I just love love love, the girls snuggling each other on the floor, one to take out when they get older and have some sibling rivalry …lol …cause they will, no doubt they will…I bet they slept like 2 lil logs that night …Happy Hump Day Kelle…I bet Brett and the girl, are planning on an extra special Mother’s Day for You, and His Mom of course too …*winks*
Deborah, the Canadian Nurse …
WoW beautiful post Kelle! That’s pure joy on little Nella’s face snuggled with big sister Lainey and getting some “sister love”! OMG just too beautiful. You can see the love too in your husband’s eyes for his girls, and yours too of course!
Have a great day – you just made mine!
Sue
The art of making a moment magical–Kelle, you have always done that! The beauty is in the details, and discovering them. Seeing Rembrandt majesty in wet wee ones’ footprints on the sidewalk or Matisse brilliance in the hues of the setting sun. The world has become so techno-centered and interior–so fast paced and rapid-living, we need to slow down, spell out Best Friends Forever, write a real handwritten letter, take out the ear buds on our jogs and listen for birdsongs, shut off the video games and start a real conversation/interaction with another sojourner on the journey of life, sip slowly a fine glass of wine and realize, there is nothing more important than right now so this moment is not swallowed up by the next. Great post. Serendipity is always better than the scheduled. Loving you!
beautiful. xo
Wanna come live with you guys in that gorgeous weather.
Awe I giggle at the Deadliest Catch 🙂 who would have thought a show about fishing would be so entertaining. It too is one of my guilty pleasures. I love the way you all love each other. I love the way you do things so spontanousley. Great post!
I had to giggle at the Deadliest Catch…who would have ever thought a show about fishing would be so entertaining. I must admit one of my guilty pleasures 🙂 Great post….makes me stop and rethink my day, errands, grocery, cleaning house. No, I think I will mark a few things off that list and just enjoy today, for the sun is out and it is going to be good. Thanks!!
Almond Joy….brilliant! Can I add that to my nicknames? I’m also a big fan of Deadliest Catch. You never know when this stay-at-home mom may need to become a crab fisherman in the Bering Sea.
Just letting you know that I love your blog but I also love your music playlist…so if you see me lurking ALL day … it is because I turn the volume up and off and up again.
Happy Wednesday!
I’m beginning to think that when the books say “and they lived happily ever after” they were hoping you’d pick up from there! If this isn’t living happily ever after, I don’t know what is! 🙂
Aww we did that just the other night too! We were about to walk upstairs to put our son to bed, when instead we found ourselves walking out the front door and straight to the playground/pool! So fun! Thanks for the info on the blog (photography/photo books) i wonder if you know how many people you are helping and inspiring to capture their family memories! I always take pictures and make photo books, but I am going to use your tips on how to make them even better, thanks! I like learning how other people make their photo books. Cool stuff. Have a great day!
Almond Joy, perfect!!
‘Scuse me… you look like a model even at impromptu pool adventures!
Loved this post.
bless your beautiful hide…
Kelle,
Thank you so much for sharing your world. Your perspective,it so refreshing and lovely. The pictures of your amazing family show the love and truth you have in your life. The way that you see the world in all its colours the ups and the downs of it all are truly amazing.
My path has never been a straight one. Although I have my days when frustration get the better of me, I am so grateful because I see the all the blessings in my life. You have really embraced that in such a short time.We have a rule in our family from my wonderful grandmother, my Nana. We get 15 minutes everyday to be sad, angry or frustrated. Thats it, you can not accumulate, and you can’t go over. It has served me well over the years. I thought you might giggle at that!
Nella is really such a gift. I have worked with children with special needs for years and I have to say that she will keep the innocence and truth in your life always everyday. What a amazing wonderful gift!!
I wish you and your beautiful family, your amazing girls lots of love, joy and of course laugher! Thanks again for sharing your life with me. Please know there is love from Toronto, Ontario, Canada coming to you everyday. A big hug!!
Lots of love, Jaime
Spending time with your family is priceless!! I think Miss Nella is going to be a big Daddy’s girl 🙂
Kelle, what a beautiful and inspiring post. You have touched my life in so many ways and, while my children and husband don’t know it, you are now the compass by which I set my goals as wife and mother.
Thank you!
Love the pictures of Brett and the girls. I love seeing Jason with our kids. My heart does an extra swoon when he is holding Jana. She often says “My Daddy” with a big grin on her face. She wants the whole world to know who her Daddy is. Nella will do the same I bet some day. As I bet Lainey does there is something about girls and their Daddy’s
The pictures of Nella on top of Lainey made me smile, you can just feel the sister love in those. I love how Lainey jumps into the pool nothing better than a night at the pool and watching the kids have a ball. The pictures you put of the the girl’s daddy were just awesome, you can see the love he has for his girls in the photos. You have a beautiful family!
my morning coffee would not be the same if not coupled with your photos and beautiful narrations. can you please tell me where nellas adorable owl jammies are from i love love love them, and would like to find them for my baby girl……liz
I have to say it. Every single one of your posts either makes me smile, laugh or inspires me in some way! Thank you! 🙂
Not sure if it’s the exact thing as Lainey’s… but I found a similar flotation device on Amazon – called “Puddle Jumpers”? Do a search and you’ll see! I was trying to figure it out too! Beautiful photos as always!
oh the picture of Brett and Lainey and the love they obviously have for each other and for you… well, it makes me want to find that in my life, reveal in it, and become a student of Love. What a great pursuit that is… you inspire me to make the very best of each day. Thanks!
This post makes me want to leave work this instant to go play with my children!
Every picture in this post was one of my favorites. But that last one made my heart MELT. I am pregnant with boy #2 and cannot wait for them to snuggle like that. I’ll be imagining it all.day.long.
cora has been BEGGING to utilize her birthday present … a wiggling hose … to play with in the yard.
but minnesota weather just doesn’t allow it quite yet.
(she swore it was warm enough yesterday. brrrrr.)
i need me some florida weather. lucky girl.
Sounds like you had a great evening and a productive day too!! Once again your post made me smile and feel like life is wonderful.
Thanks!
kelle did you see the retro bathing suits at rockstar diaries? http://taza-and-husband.blogspot.com/2010/05/1950s-glamour-on-beach.html
Oh my word! Nella!! That last picture of the girls had my eyes all teary. Oh those peaceful moments, soak them up!!! My girls are 19mos apart and currently at eachothers throats much of the day “wwrestlin, mommie!” – ah well all in good fun (for the most part!) but the peaceful moments are SO precious. Your blog really has inspired me to take more pictures, try to catch it all- I’ve always been very good at the writing aspect, I use our blog as a baby book for grandparents far away. But the pictures of the little things are so important. So, Thank you.
-Hannah
i live just around the corner from Popina and LOVE LOVE LOVE their feminine and truly classy suits. Everyone should own a Popina suit! Yours looks devine on you….
I love reading your blog. Your love of life just makes me so happy when I read it and reminds me to appreciate all the good in my life as well!
I have to tell you, your blog is so refreshing. Everyday I can’t wait to come to your blog in my reader. It just gives me a fresh outlook on life. Well, that is…until I get bogged back down with work. But it’s like a breath of fresh air. Allowing me to peek into lives filled with love. So, thank you. For sharing your life with us 🙂
so often i find your posts bringing me to involuntary, happy tears. you turn life into such beautiful words, inspiring me to make the most of what surrounds me.
Love, love, love your Esther Williams-esque suit! So cute! I need to get one, too! 😉 Gorgeous girls, gorgeous family, lovely weather, sun, and water! Perfect..just perfect!
I meant to comment on Poppa’s post and say that it made me think what a special bond you have with your Dad (as I do with mine) and also that it looks like your husband will have that same kind of bond with your girls that you have with your Dad. Coming from a stranger, the pictures of your husband on the day of Nella’s birth had “unconditional love” written all over his face. Happy family! Little moments are the best!
Beautiful family! Beautiful post and beautiful pictures. C:
Daughter, Loudon Wainwright III is a great song!
“The most empowering relationships are those in which each partner lifts the other to a higher possession of their own being.” -Teilhard de Chardin
I am a huge fan of daddy love…and you said it well “it’s like looking in a mirror.” I am someone who notices hands…even before eyes, and there is nothing like strong weathered daddy hands holding the babies he loves.
I love the pictures of Lainey snuggled in her quilt with Nella snuggling up for a little sister love! Your two girls….made. for. each. other! ♥
So happy I checked in before taking my little love out for a mommy/daughter date night…ssshhh..don’t tell anyone but we are ditching a little school time for a little fun time! my heart is smiling and I just love that.
The frog floatie is too funny! Love it
I just read your post and my husband and I did this last night with our 5 1/2 month old twins. My husbands idea to bring the babies out to the pool/spa(in our backyard). Of course at first I was thinking how am I going to enjoy myself when I have so much to do inside that I didn’t get done today b/c I’m here alone with the babies all day…and then I just let go and enjoyed the moment! And I have precious pics to prove it and the twins loved it:) You are such an inspiration, Kelle!!!!
Love the last pic of Nella blissed out on top of big sister… such sweetness! Looking forward to summer water fun with my own two little monkey boys. Lainey is such a brave little swimmer!
simply delicious post, kelle! thanks for the smile! your girls are just adorable, as are you.
oh, and the daddy love thing … seriously, just gets me! and i love how you phrased it, rivals mine so equally … it’s the same here! however, i could have never picked words so perfect to describe it.
The picture of Nella and Lainey at the end of your post is tugging at all my heart strings. Sisterly love…I can’t wait for those moments. I’m expecting my 2nd daugther in Sept.; exactly 1 year after the birth of my first sweet girl. I can’t wait for them to have these types of moments together! Thanks for sharing.
Please tell me where you got your necklace — two eggs in a nest, am I right? I have been looking on etsy for a three egg nest necklace for myself for Mother’s Day..hint hint, AHEM, dear…
Love the babies. I miss my squishy newborn Ben. He looks so much like Nella.
Your girls are sooo gorgeous! 😉 And you take such beautiful pictures! I love reading your blog, Kelle 🙂
LOVE FROM NORWAY <3
I have read your blog for a while now, and I have to say that I am truly in love with it. You take so lovely pictures! I love looking at them, and can sit in the sofa for hours just staring at the pictures of your loving family. And your two little girls…they are so prescious! I have to admit, Nella is the most beautiful and cutes baby I have ever seen! Have a nice day/evening (it is evening here in Norway now.)
– Linda, 16
Ok I must also know where that adorable necklace came from!!! I would need to find one with 5 eggs! Great pics as usual!!
I wanted to post when you’d see… but I’ll settle for this. I was 17 when our little bundle was born into my family….6th and last. She has DS, and has been a bundle of absolute joy for her entire 12 years. Your little Nella looks so much like she did. I left for college when she was this age and missed her terribly. I was always proud that she was my sister…still am. Your insites to “differences” are perfection!
had great fun w/ your sister this past weekend and on the way up drug out my old Boston “Third Stage” album…remember them? Anyway, the post reminds me of one of their songs…one of my faves. Love the words, but it has that late 70’s 80’s rock vibe. LOVE LOVE IT:
To Be a Man
What does it take to be a man?
What does it take to see
It’s all heart and soul
A gentle hand?
So easy to want and so hard to give
How can you be a man
’till you see beyond the life you live?
Oh, what does it take to be a man?
We can be blind, but a man tries to see
It takes tenderness
For a man to be what he can be
And what does it mean
If you’re weak or strong?
A gentle feelin’
Can make it right or make it wrong
What does it take to be a man?
The will to give and not receive
The strength to say what you believe
The heart to feel what others feel inside
To see what they can see
A man is somethin’ that’s real
It’s not what you are
It’s what you can feel
It can’t be too late
To look through the hate and see
I know that’s what a man can be
LOVE THESE WORDS!!
I think Brett is a real man…like mine; Matt’s a real man you know…:0)
,,,big & little are adorable,,,it just doesn’t get better then that!,,,listened to the rosie radio interview, kept reaching for the tissue,,,indeed nella is perfect,,,lainey has taught many that we love from the heart and not from our eyes,,,thank you lainey!
Well got my smile of the day. My fix. Especially that last picture of little “Almond Joy’s” face lying on top of sissy. That’s a whole lot of yummy!
This post just felt like a satisfied sigh. The kind of sigh you take after you lounge back in a chair after a long day at work, or one when you finally get into bed at night, or when you look upon something that makes you happy. It just felt like a moment of peace, of easy peace that comes so fleeting that you wish you could get more of. Not that every post of yours doesn’t leave us with a warm, heartfelt feeling, but i loved this one so much because it was so average and fun and had a sit-back-and-relax feeling.
I can’t wait to hop in a pool soon. Our weather has been fairly hot in PA for a while now, and it’ll be time soon for people to get their pools ready. I will be ready to cannonball right into any inviting pool i see! I love water, and when I was young I was like lainey, a fish in the water so very comfortable with staying in it forever.
Oh…Nella and Brett, all of their pictures together look so adorable. You can see how much love shines in their eyes for each other. How much love she just has for BOTH of you is simply amazing. The same for lainey, you can just tell how much love she has for her mama and daddy, just by her smile in pictures with you guys.
Sometimes we all need a bit of sweets, and I’m sure you bought a ton for those kids so stealing a bag shouldn’t hurt. They’ll be too busy running around being fairies to even notice the adults sneaking some sweets (which they will, i bet!). Laineys party is so soon! I’m excited for the post after her birthday, because the idea for a fairy party is so fun! I’m sure you’ll make it magical to say the least.
Your post made me feel way better than I’ve felt the past two days, so thank you for that Kelle. Your post just screams SUMMER IS COMING! Although it feels like it’s already here. Have a great rest of the week!
Beautiful…and I LOVE the very last picture. Thank you for making me smile:)
ha! Your new swimsuit came in 🙂 luv it! Happy day!
For an impromptu outing to the pool, you look absolutely gorgeous Kelle!
I have to admit that last picture of Nella laying on her sister’s belly looks like she is in a milk induced “life is good” coma! These two sisters are bonding and enjoying the little things, there’s no doubt.
That black and white photo of Brett and Nella is just stunning. So much love. 🙂
I have finally got to listen to your Rosie interview. I am a Mum of a stunning young man of 21 with DS who lives an amazing full and satisfying life and we live in the beautiful country of New Zealand. When ever I read your blog (all the time) the voice in my head has always had a Kiwi Accent. I sat listening to the interview thinking ‘who is this person, that cant be my friend Kelle’. Once again the world turned and I realise how close we all are, what huge family this is and small things like accents and DS make no difference. Bless you and your fabulous family for reaching out to the world and waking them up to the joy our children give everyday.
I have become totally addicted to your blog. The way you describe your babies, the water, the smell of the air… It`s like reading a book you just can`t put down!
And about your little Almond Joy…
Nella really does have the most beautiful almond eyes I`ve ever seen <3
Wonderful post…I love watching sisters play together. Mine are
3 1/2 and 9mos. It only gets sweeter. Enjoy
Hey girl!
Just listened to the Rosie interview. You were fantastic. I’m crying again, damn it! But it hurt so good. Liv Tyler doesn’t have anything on you girl!
p.s.
I get to hand you the hot pink sharpies and Evain water bottles at your book signings in NYC,
Hi Kelle,
That last picture of Nella and Lainey, OH MY GOODNESS, melt my heart! Love it! Nella’s little smiles to all of you are breath taking……the love just radiates from her to all of you!
She definately chose you as her family
XO
Thank you for the hair band/head band tip,too!!
You and your family Rock!!! You are one beautiful mommy,and I love reading your blog!!
LOVE evenings like this! Thank you for sharing your beautiful littles with us!!
The last pic of your 2 jewels…..Heaven
Dear Kelle,
My father past away last tuesday but I came here just to see the girls, they are so lovely.Their joy helps me to get through.
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beautiful post kelle!
always a sucker for the sister shots and, of course, baby daddy ones too! what profound love =)
and almond joy… so lovin it (and her)… your neighbor wins!!!
was just thinkin after i read this post that it’s a good thing i know you, cuz if i didn’t i probably woulda asked you for your autograph when i ran into you @ the store today! lol!
keep rockin it out sista!
i love your blog… i don’t know you, but i read it daily and am daily inspired to love the world as you do.
Oh, dear Malu…you have been a part of our cyberfamily for a long time. I am so very sorry for your loss. I am sure you were a bright light in your father’s life. You are in my heart and in my prayers tonight. There may be many miles between us, but not our spirits. Feel embraced tonight, dear one.
Oh Kelle-
Pure deliciousness through and through!!! From the pictures with “daddy” to the sweetness of two sisters lying in complete contentment (or at least that’s the way it looks in the photo!!!) Thanks for yet another lump of sugar in life’s cup of tea!!!
By the way- LOVE LOVE LOVE the nickname Almond Joy!! oh can’t get enough of that one!!!!!
I’ve become addicted to reading your blog in a very short time! I’m dying to know where you found the floaty thing your daughter is wearing? Would love one for my little 3 year old! Seems so much more comfy than the play ol’ water wings!
I like “when evenings end just like this one” too Kelle for you ended mine in sighs ‘n smiles over your photos, matching music and of course……..those ‘gobble em up words’ ~ your Little Nest knows how to share the joy with we readers Kelle. :o)
God Bless,
Barbra.
What precious memories you are making.
My husband is like your’s and just was awesome with our daughter when she was a baby and even now at age 12. I had a special bond with my father and now he has alzheimers. Losing him to this disease when on the outside he is the same. I was daddy’s girl and it is gone. At least I can hold on to the memories we shared.
The little things in life are the most important and magnifying them helps to preserve thier moment in time. You are doing a great job of that.
I just love Nella’s blue eyes. They’re so bright and sunny. It doesn’t hurt that my son’s eyes were exactly that color at her age. He still has amazing blue eyes. It’s wonderful to look into your child’s face and see a piece of the heavens looking back at you.
your blog is amazing…I read it late at night, when my three babies are sleepin and I should be too! Inspirational, funny and full of pictures that i wish had taken of my two girls and son! your an amazing women, i hope you dont mind me taking a peek!!!
I feel sheepish to comment for weeks now … it’s like being the last to sign a group birthday card. After you read what everyone else wrote you can’t think of anything novel or witty to say. So I just sign my name with “Love,” before it. From my heart, thank you.
Those are wonderful photos. I can see that you’re having a great time.
Ahhhh the I’m saving my children by eating this chocolate line, it is definately one of my favourites.
Kelle,
Lainey is looking more and more like you every day . . . Alas, poor Brett with three beauties in the house where will he ever get enough time to pour out all that most deserving attention and love! Lovely post!
Dancing with you in the brightness and love that families are!
~v
LOVE the last picture! It looks like Nella is smiling with those cute cheeks all smooshed up on Lainey’s chest . . . so content.
Also love the picture of Nella snuggling with Brett with her little hand wrapped around his finger and the little toes of her right foot scrunched up around the fabric of his pant leg . . . adorable!
I wanted you to know that when I need a smile, I come to your page.Sometimes I only have time to look at the pictures, and that’s enough.Sometimes I have time to read and that often brings smiles and tears.
I have 3 finals today, thanks for the smile to start my day!
kells bells,
i love the pics sooo much on this post.
wispy girl and almond joy…kelle, seriously that is sweet. i miss my girls so much.
hello, photo shoot?
later gator.
xoxo
I come to your blog to re-read posts when I need an attitude adjustment. 🙂
Your posts & pictures have saved my coworker from a verbal bitch-slap (or three.)
Although if he doesn’t keep his pie hole shut in the 10am meeting……….
Love, love, love the reference to your little almond joy – so sweet! I can’t believe how triumphant Lainey looks in the water. My kids didn’t enjoy the pool at that age at all. Thanks for reminding me that the little pieces of the day can all be enjoyed separately….I am working on not letting the annoyances of my day take over 🙂
Kelle,
I have been reading your blog for sometime now and you continue to inspire me to soak all the wonders that my twin nine month olds bestow upon every day (even the wonders that come wrapped up in tears, fits or messy diapers!). I received this today and thought of you immediately. I hope you have the most amazing mother’s day with your beautiful family!!
*****************
Make no mistake, I think all MOMs ROCK but a dear friend of mine whose son happens to be autistic shared this and I had to share it with you. I hope everyone has an AMAZING Mothers Day!
Top 20 Reasons Moms of Kids With Special Needs ROCK
by ellen s posted Wednesday, May 5, 2010
1) Because we never thought that “doing it all” would mean doing this much. But we do do it all — and then some.
2) Because we’ve discovered patience we never knew we had.
3) Because we are willing to do something 10 times, 100 times or 1,000 times if that’s what it takes for our kids to learn something new.
4) Because we have heard doctors tell us the worst, and we’ve refused to believe them. Take THAT, naysaying doctors of the world!
5) Because we have bad days and breakdowns and bawl-fests, and then we pick ourselves up and keep right on going.
6) Because we gracefully handle the stares, the comments, the rude remarks. (Well, mostly gracefully.)
7) Because we manage to get ourselves together and get out the door looking pretty damn good. Heck, we even make sweatpants look good!
8) Because we are strong. Man, are we strong. Who knew we could be this strong?
9) Because we aren’t just moms, wives, cooks, cleaners, chauffeurs and women who work. We are moms, wives, cooks, cleaners, chauffeurs, women who work, physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, teachers, researchers, nurses, coaches and cheerleaders. Whew!
10) Because we work overtime every single day.
11) Because we also worry overtime, but we work it through. Or we eat chocolate or Pirate’s Booty or gourmet cheese (which aren’t reimbursable by insurance as mental-health necessities, but should be).
12) Because we are more selfless than other moms. Our kids need us more.
13) Because we give our kids with special needs endless love, and then we still have so much love left for our other kids, our husbands, our families. And our hairstylists, of course.
14) Because we inspire one another in this crazy blogosphere every single day.
15) Because we understand our kids better than anyone else — even if they can’t talk; even if they can’t gesture; even if they can’t look us in the eye. We know. We just know.
16) Because we never stop pushing for our kids.
17) Because we never stop hoping for them, either.
18) Because just when it seems like things are going OK, they’re suddenly not OK, but we deal. Somehow, we always deal — even when it seems like our heads or hearts might explode.
19) Because when we look at our kids, we just see great kids — not kids with cerebral palsy/autism/ Down syndrome/developmen tal delays/whatever.
20) Because … well, you tell me.
I’m a fan of your blog, from Norway! 🙂 And I must say, I LOVE your pictures!! Of course, you have the most beautiful girls to photograph.. but still, you are amazingly good! 🙂
You have a beautiful family… and it’s refreshing to actually hear someone how appreciates what the have. Wish we all took the time to do that more often. Thanks for the reminder.
Love your posts! You have 2 beautiful little girls! I came across this and thought you might be interested:
http://www.refresheverything.com/downsyndromefreeclinic
I have a step-brother and 10 month old niece that have Down Syndrome. My brother is very high-functioning: he’s 36, lives on his own, drives his own car, has a job. His father never told him he couldn’t do anything. My niece is just a little ham! She is up on all fours fixing to take over the house!
Nella is absolutely gorgeous and I love “hearing” about her and her sister! Great family!
check out twinings cold-brewed tea. it’s delicious, comes in a bunch of flavors, and is so much simpler then making iced tea from hot tea! i use it all the time in the summer.
Lainey is just the sweetest big sister in the world. So much love!!
the last picture… nella sleeping on lainey… yeah, it melts my heart!
love it!
I am here to thank you and your daddy for the sweetness of your words that confort me and heal my soul by the loving you two send to me .please be in touch, your kindness is a blessing to me .
why are there never any pictures of the boys too?
Your blog is my FAVORITE blog anywhere…and I read tons….I want to buy a bathing suit like yours….I love, love it…Any idea how quick they ship.
http://teresa-grammygirlfriend.blogspot.com
Oh, Kelle. Your posts never fail to uplift me and make me smile.
I cannot WAIT to see what key I get to hold, and what my room in my own House of Motherhood will look like. What it will have in store for me. It might be several years coming, but I can’t wait to see my house.
Also, I always love going back in people’s blogs to a year before profound moments happen, and when I went back to search for January 22nd 2009, I found you wrote on January 21st;
“~we’ve been trying to have another baby for ten months and it hasn’t happened. i want to hold this baby…really bad.”
If only you knew then, one year from that day you’d be a mere day away from your Nella Bean. Amazing.
Much love as always Kelle and family,
Kayla.
Well, I am quite surprised by this. The baby is so damn cute and the elder one is the most beautiful one I must say. certificate iv