I set off this morning to write.
I was alone which doesn’t happen very often these days, and it took me a moment to adjust to the still and quiet of a chatterless car ride.
I arrived at the bookstore, laptop in tow and settled into a corner table with a coffee, attempting to initiate some sort of word barage into my senses.
But nothing came.
I stared into a blank white document, fiddled with my cup, searched for inspiration–anything–but was only drawn to the bearded man annihilating a raspberry danish visible from the glossy reflection on my screen. I tried switching seats, changing the angle of my computer, pushing aside the distracting clutter of my bagel plate…but alas, nothing but a few pecked sentences which I quickly deleted.
So, I drove home, reemerged myself into the rituals of a Saturday morning and refueled my senses with what they needed…
Like Swimming.
Where my big fish shouted “Look at Me!” and “Hey, Watch Dis!” and proudly flaunted new jumps and paddles and splashes.
The spark of inspiration continued into the quiet of the pink room where the little bunny slept, her cherub legs tucked symmetrically under her diaper, her lashes contrasted nicely by mid-morning sun.
…lashes which later unfurled while her awakeness drank in kisses from the daddy.
I was refueled with the new September candy dish, stashed with Autumn-hued Jordan almonds which have rapidly disappeared in a matter of hours.
And I watched as my big girl entertained the little girl…
…and I studied the ever-changing features of her sweet angel face.
And dessert tonight was Dress-up.
Where I was instructed to “Put difs on” and was handed a ruffled clump of hot pink mesh and aqua sequins.
We strutted magestically through the driveway…
…until something ruffled the queen’s feathers and she ran into the house, distraught in a very three-year-old manner.
And just about the time the little one sank into a heavy slumber against my left arm tonight, and the bigger one breathed slow and steady in the crook of my right, I felt it.
My inspiration.
I often challenge myself to recognize the many facets of my identity and to understand that motherhood does not completely define me. I want to set an example for my girls of fulfilling my one wild and precious life with a great many things and giving them the freedom to explore the wonders of the world in their own way. I tell myself that I will gradually have to let go and that life will not always be filled with the happiness of dress up and tea parties and spontaneously aproning up to make cupcakes with extra sprinkles.
…but right now, I drink it up, knowing that the magnitude of our inspriration shifts over time. And while I am aware that mothering cherub-cheeked littles will not always be the source of full-flowing inspiration, I know that loving them will.
…and while the words finally flow tonight, there’s always re-fueling tomorrow. Watching my girls settle into the cold sands of our happy beach on the Isle of Capri.
Happy Holiday Weekending.
carlotta says
This is so beautiful. Little Nella’s eyes are STUNNING! Gorgeous photos ๐
Cameo's Angels says
Nella looks gorgeous in blue! Beautiful post, as always! Happy weekend!
Eva Marie says
i often wonder what defines me.. as my 7 almost 8 month old lies in bed fresh off of a family trip that we drank up like the best coffee you ever had.. i wonder is it motherhood, is it the job that I once loved, is it being a newly wife…
maybe its everything..
today its being LOVED by my little wee baby girl because im not sure if anything can trump that
thanks kelle once again for making me smile :)have a great day tomorrow at your beach with your awesome fam!
Ashley @ The Hillside Home says
you sure do have a way with words.
and your girls just get more beautiful by the day. nella’s eyes are out of this world.
have a great weekend. ๐
Kimberly says
As always, perfection.
Melissa says
Beautiful words and stunning photos of gorgeous littles! Thank you for sharing!
Brenda says
Nella is growing up ๐ Cute girls, beautiful writing… as always.
donnaheal says
Nella’s eyes are just AMAZING. Beautiful post. I love your big fish. She sure does like to swim, doesn’t she?! Happy Weekend!
donnaheal says
Nella’s eyes are just AMAZING. Beautiful post. I love your big fish. She sure does like to swim, doesn’t she?! Happy Weekend!
Melissa says
Happy Holiday week-end to you too wonderful Momma!
donnaheal says
PS. I think Nella in the hat with sissy squishing her and her little foot peeking out might be one of my favourite of all of your images…!! ๐
Karen says
Nella is a doll! She looks alot like Lainey in the bonnett pics. Lainey sure looks grown up in the third pic. Beautiful!
Rik says
(Poppa)
From the beginning of this journey, I have said “Nella won’t define us, she will distinguish us.” I remember worrying will life ever be the same?, and now I am glad it won’t be. It will be better. Better because some things were distilled away in the crucible. What remains is purer. A new perfect that some, I am sure, cannot understand. A purer perfect–if that makes any sense. And hey, the girl looks poised to crawl…I sense it will be soon. I have seen, in my solo diaper change efforts, the little smooch can do a double roll in three seconds flat. The full crawl is very near. She has already amazed us…and her sister and brothers will help her amaze us more. Immerse yourself in them, Kelle, and you will find your reason to write. Loving you tonight and eager to see you next week!
ayshamartin says
Beautiful words, gorgeous pictures!!! Enjoy the magic of your special island tomorrow:)
iColossus / Monster says
Oh, yay, you’re going to IOC tomorrow! Wish I could be there. Can’t wait to see the pics. Take some jumping-the-pier-ones for me!
Rachel says
I love reading your blog. Your blog is beautiful and so are the pictures. I wish I always had that many pictures of my day to share with people. I was wondering with your pictures, how you get the color like that? Do you edit all the pictures? Im a photographer, well a new one and still learning, and I love the detail and creativity of your pictures…..I hope to hear from you and your response….thank you!!!
Rachel says
I love reading your blog. Your blog is beautiful and so are the pictures. I wish I always had that many pictures of my day to share with people. I was wondering with your pictures, how you get the color like that? Do you edit all the pictures? Im a photographer, well a new one and still learning, and I love the detail and creativity of your pictures…..I hope to hear from you and your response….thank you!!!
Jennifer says
I love Rik’s commentary – “immerse yourself in them” – so continue to jump on in your motherly experience with the enthusiasm of a 3 year old.
I thought that I could see Nella’s blonde hair emerging in the paris shots, and now the shots of her in the blue dress show the swirl of lengthening hair. So beautiful! And your dress-up outfit must have been stunning to see from the sidewalk!
Off to bed weary after cooking and baking all day for a friend’s shower. Oh, just another day to celebrate a new baby joining all of us.
Cheers!
Jennifer from Annapolis
Katy says
Love the close up pic of Lainey in the pool. Amazing!
and Nella is looking more like Lainey everyday ๐
Happy Labor Day weekend (again ๐
KWQR says
oh-my-goodness… little miss nella and her blue blue eyes… words can not express!!! love the shot of lainey & latte… too cute.
happy isle tomorrow.
xo
kate
MyRayOLite says
There will be days where you will share many lines of inspiration and days where the photos will tell the stories! It’s OK! :o) Just let the photos do the talking.
MyRayOLite says
There will be days where you will share many lines of inspiration and days where the photos will tell the stories! It’s OK! :o) Just let the photos do the talking.
MyRayOLite says
This comment has been removed by the author.
Kulio says
Loooove Lainey’s swimming pic with the goggle-marks still on her face. The lighting or effect or whatever you did with it makes it seem like I smell hot skin and chlorine from the pool. Really cool. And I LOVE THE NEW um..okay I don’t know the lingo, obviously…I LOVE THE NEW HEADLINER thing across the top of your page! That picture is so beautiful!!
KaitlinCole says
I love this. That Nella is growing so fast, I feel like I was just reading about her birth! Such a sweet girl. I love that you embrace mommyhood and your special time with your babies. Thank you Kel for loving those girls so much! I love reading about your adventures and love. That Brett, he is SUCH a good daddy to your girls.
Linda MG in Soquel, CA says
Awww, Kelle, as always, I just love it! As you said, “MOTHERING will not always be the source of ..inspiration, but LOVING them always will”. yes, indeed, my kids are real big kids now and that is SO true. Ooh, Isle of Capri tomorrow. What fun! Have lots of fun, you and your beautiful family. Thanks for the inspiration~
Lisa says
Today I sat on the beach while my husband and son played in the waves and our baby girl slept in my arms. Then we switched and I went climbing rocks along the shore with my boy. The smell of chocolate cupcakes fills my living room tonight as we prepare to celebrate a life tomorrow. This too inspires me because we are rich in love and the fact that each one of us receives great joy being in the company of the others. That is LIFE and in your words “I’m going to suck the marrow out of it.”
I never tire of seeing the faces of your sweet girls. I look forward to the day that my girl (9months) will play dress-up with me.
Cheers! Lisa in CA
FEAS613 says
You never fail to inspire me!!
I love “The Writer’s Idea Book” by Jack Heffron. When I’m stumped I simply open the book to any random page, maybe just read a few words or perhaps even write out a prompt or two to get me going again. It usually helps… not to mention that it’s a great book!
Glad to see your writing again!
I absolutely L-O-V-E! the picture of Nella with her tongue sticking out!! How precious!! You’re one lucky Mama to have two beautiful girls!!
jen says
enjoy your beach time tomorrow. say hi to the ocean for me.
and if i see any fall-ish leaves peeking through the trees, i’ll be sure to let them know you say hi.
we wore sweaters today. and jeans.
and i actually had socks on this morning. brr.
Misty Sedehi says
Needed that mommy reminder. . . Thanks!
Benay says
The third photo down – the one of Lainey coming out of the water – is breathtaking. What a gorgeous shot!
Kristi says
You know what I think? I think Motherhood totally defines you. It oozes from you. Even when we try to be everything or something else. It changes your life forever, and even though it might not be cupcakes and tea parties, you will always have a large part in your childrens lives.
I think we get a mental picture of denim jumpsuits when we think of motherhood sometimes. Obviously not the case, but you know what I mean.
Rock it girl, your good at it ๐
Kristi
J says
I so agree with you. Motherhood is my most cherished role but it is not all that I have to offer this world. Thanks for reminding me of that tonight.
Jenn says
I LOVE your posts, Kelle, and am in love with your girls. They are beautiful. I am pregnant with my second girl and hope my two girls can be sweet friends like yours. I hope you tell Brett that he is a wonderful dad too! Enjoy tomorrow.
Janet says
“And while I am aware that mothering cherub-cheeked littles will not always be the source of full-flowing inspiration, I know that loving them will.”
That is so true. Loving them will always be inspiration, even when they’re grown, with children of their own. Even though they move away, they’re not gone from you, from your heart.
Emily Hanley says
Wow, I just did a double-take on Nella’s pictures. She grew overnight! Maybe it’s because I’ve been reading your older blog entries but all of a sudden Nella is just looking…well..older! Wow! Hope you are enjoying your holiday weekend. Thought of you guys when I bought outdoor table cloths in the “Hampton” design. ๐
Emily Hanley says
Wow, I just did a double-take on Nella’s pictures. She grew overnight! Maybe it’s because I’ve been reading your older blog entries but all of a sudden Nella is just looking…well..older! Wow! Hope you are enjoying your holiday weekend. Thought of you guys when I bought outdoor table cloths in the “Hampton” design. ๐
Heidi says
Thank you so much for the quote below. Gabe started school this week for the first time, and I have spent much of my time heartbroken that he is spending much of his days in the care of someone else. I’ve tried convincing myself of how much he’s going to thrive and grow, but I’m finding it very difficult to let go. That’s why I loved your last phrase in the quote – the one about how loving him will always been a source of inspiration and fulfillment. I took a lot of comfort from that. Thanks for the encouragement!
“I often challenge myself to recognize the many facets of my identity and to understand that motherhood does not completely define me. I want to set an example for my girls of fulfilling my one wild and precious life with a great many things and giving them the freedom to explore the wonders of the world in their own way. I tell myself that I will gradually have to let go and that life will not always be filled with the happiness of dress up and tea parties and spontaneously aproning up to make cupcakes with extra sprinkles.
…but right now, I drink it up, knowing that the magnitude of our inspriration shifts over time. And while I am aware that mothering cherub-cheeked littles will not always be the source of full-flowing inspiration, I know that loving them will.”
Edie says
Gorgeous as always.
And Nella’s blue dress, where from! hehe
hopeโฅ says
absolutely stunning! I’ve been following your blog forever and I still cant believe how gorgeous your girls are. EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. they get 10 times more gorgeous then the last! hope you have a great rest of the weekend =)
Jule says
I love the way Nella’s little personality is really coming through in the photo’s – she looks like she’s got a bit of an (adorable) attitude.
I love the clothes you and the girls wear <3
hopeโฅ says
one other thing .. I somehow ended up on your youtube channel and saw this video:
http://www.youtube.com/user/kascryder#p/u/9/mNtNsBoWaSk
it made me cry. I was absolutely speechless. you must show this to Lainey when she gets older. It is absolutely precious =)
Angelina Taumaoe says
ahh… it’s 2:03 where I live… and after hours of mindless internet surfing with the cheesiness of stephen king movies playing in the background… I think I’ll go to bed with the smile that you just gave me. I adore watching your girls grow and you continue to make me more excited to watch mine grow as well. Thank you, and goodnight!
Roksalanna says
Love the photos of Lainey cuddling Nella!
Your posts always bring a smile to my face.
Hope that you and your family have a fabulous holiday weekend! x
Marti says
I so badly want to sleep late on my vacation but the sunrise over the ocean is too important to miss, so I sit here waiting reading your blog, and smelling coffee. A nearly perfect combination. I’ll wake up my hubby and little sweetie to make it perfect. Here’s to sunrises…Life is Good!
Paula says
Kelle, Just visited my oldest at college yesterday. He has only been gone a week but I needed to see him. You are right to savor every second. 18 years is gone in a second. I only hope my 15 year old doesn’t mind all the extra lovin’ I have shifted on to him. I love motherhood as much as you and miss the innocent, unscheduled days before school and the world interrupted us.
AutonomousID says
Hey Kelle,
Just wanted to mention that although there won’t always be tea parties and dress up, you have so much to look forward to and your girls grow up. I’m 23 and have my own place, but just this past week my mother visited me for an evening of Gilmore Girls and brownie sundays. And my mother (who’s 50) visits her mother – my awesome grandma – at least twice a week for some pretty competitive card games (which I happily join in whenever I’m home). There will always be special things to do with your daughters for years and years and years to come. Isn’t life grand? ๐
Katie says
I’m new to your blog and you have quickly found another follower! Love it, your family and your willingness to share them with us!
Amber says
Be inspired by motherhood and don’t hesitate! Don’t ever feel guilty or let anyone make you feel the need to be inspired by anything other than what you are passionate about! It is obvious you are inspired by life and all the beauty you see in it. It certainly doesn’t seem like you limit yourself on what you are inspired by! You’re doing just fine! Keep it up! Obviously you’re rocking something right to have so many following your masterpieces! Ps. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that picture of Nella looking at you over the top of Daddy’s arm! Oh. My. GOODNESS! Priceless!
Michele says
May I just say that Miss Nella is so gorgeous, she looks like a little Porcelian Doll….. Miss Lainey love, she should be a model, she just poses so perfectly and is so beautiful… Enjoy Isle of Capri today! That is in my bucket list, I’m in Jacksonville so we aren’t too too far from it, maybe next summer…
Whirlwindkim says
Just arrived home (to my empty nest) after going to visit my 2 sons that are now off at college. The wonderful news is that motherhood never ends…their needs change but your love, concern, worries and wonderment are always right there. This new stage is different than where you are now but just as exciting and funfilled. I think my goal is to always see the beauty in each stage and to step back and soak it all in! I too photograph it all and at 18 and 20…my boys LOVE to go back and revisit their youth through these photographs; your girls will as well! What beautiful, sweet angels you have! The eyes of sweet Nella…oh my, they could light up the world!
mom2nji says
Nella looks more and more like a blue eyed Lainey everyday. And those blue eyes are electric.
Stunningly Sweet says
How great is it that when we mommies get a moment away we long for the inspiration of our littles!
Amy H. says
Seems to me your tank overflowth with inspiration now. Nothing like a good refueling to get those creative juices flowing.
PS your girls = ADORABLE!
SMOOCHES
Amy
lisafliny says
Give yourself over to mothering for now and let it be what defines you. As they grow older it won’t be as all-consuming and other aspects of your person, can once again take center stage ๐
Love your blog!
Hannah says
Kelle, I just love you. YOU are one of the biggest sources of my inspiration ever–you inspire me to be a better sister, friend, and daughter, and a better someday momma myself. I love reading your posts and watching your photos–you are so amazing! Thanks for just being incredible; you ROCK! ๐
Lotsa love! <3
–Hannah
Hillary says
Isn’t it funny how so often we don’t realize, until we start searching elsewhere, that our inspiration is right in front of us. Beautiful photography as always. Nella has sure started to grow up and you can see her little character continue to blossom. Happy Weekending to you too!
mrsmacolsson says
I recognise me in you….sometimes we feel like we need to be alone, but then the alone is so quiet without our little ones. I do the same too, come home and drink in their games and grumps, smiles and screams.
Amie says
When I get a few much needed moments by myself I always think I’ll be able to write something AWESOME and I never get ANYTHING. We need the kiddos for inspiration!!
Wish we were headed to Isle of Capri today…its a chilly 51 degrees here in Gaylord this morning…ENJOY!
Marianne says
Nella in the blue dress that matches her eyes = pure magic! And Lainey toting the dog around is adorable…are we born with that mothering instinct?
Treible's Tribune says
Kelle, your family is beautiful! You can feel the love and joy and calm just seep out of the pictures. I have never aspired to be a mother but I am so thankful that women like you have!
Shari says
What awesome pictures!!!! Your little models are just lovely. The pictures of Nella sleeping are breathtaking and Lainey diving in the pool are wonderful. I love how you dress up with them, what an awesome Mommy you are.
Million Dollar Mamma says
Funny….that. you think you want the alone time and then they are gone. i sit here at my desk alone right now anxiously waiting for my boys to come home after a 35 minute trip to the market. i am always looking for identity in this new mother world. funny you say that. more on motherhood & identity please.
Sharaya says
My older sister has Downs and growing up, she was an amazing swimmer! She even won a few medals from Special Olympics. And she was a good swimmer at a very early age, too! She was like a little mermaid! So I guess I’m just saying that your ‘big fish’ could potentially have a ‘small fish’ following after her! ๐
KWQR says
Just re-read this post (had to see those blue eyes again!). Have been thinking a lot this weekend about this mother/wife/self balance that is so elusive to me. Have decided to think of it as a liquid thing rather than a solid. Something that can flow easily between each part of who I am & not be so clearly divided into pieces. Finding those moments of self but being fully present as a mother… does anyone ever get the “perfect” balance? Probably not, but lady you sure seem to come close. Thank you for your inspiration & honesty!
xo Kate
Sarah says
This comment has been removed by the author.
Sarah says
One of the beauties of writing is that writers find themselves seeking inspiration. What a way to spend life…looking for ideas, people, images, stories for stimulation so we can identify it in our heart, then try to put words to our thoughts about the gifts around us. How happy that must make our creator, God, the universe, Holy Spirit (whatever you word you want to use) to know we are noticing, soaking up what our life is.
So, here we are, this band of your followers, reveling in the inspiration we find in you, stimulated to find joy in our own families, friends, children and whatever else makes our lives complete, different, or similar in this happy little place that is your blog.
Cathy says
Your blog just makes me happy…..
Sarah says
I think maintaining your personal identity is something all mothers struggle with. Some give into it, and som–like one certain Mrs. Kelle Hampton–strive to continue pursuing their own interests. There is no shame in either one, but I believe those who continue contributing to their own personal identities live happier, more fulfilling lives.
You’re doing a wonderful job at both.
Thank you again for the beautiful pictures, the girls are growing so fast!
Christie says
You inspire me. On all levels. Reading your words help me strive to do and be better in everyway.
Thanks Kelle!!
Linda MG in Soquel, CA says
To HEIDI – Hey! I feel like I know you too, thru the Comments board. Oh, yes, I remember those days when my first started school. Hang in there. TO WHIRLWINDKIM and PAULA -oh YES,you both nailed it. THis never ends, even when they are grown up or in college. And OLDER. THey are always our “babies”. And as someone once quoted something like at any age, Having our kids away from us is like having our heart walking around in the world. (we are always on the lookout for them, no matter the age). Happy long weekend to all!! Love to Kelle and family..
~KS says
I love stopping by to see what adventures your girls are up to! And I simply must learn to use my camera- your photographs are always so stunning and powerful.
Happy long weekend to you and your family!
GLENDA CHILDERS says
A word of encouragement from this mom whose daughters are 29 and 25. My husband and I love having adult kids . . . it still feels like Christmas morning when we all get to be together.
You have much to look forward to in the days ahead, as well.
Fondly,
Glenda
lightkeepersdaughter says
Another amazing post!…full of wisdom and gorgeous pictures!
I love how you “break” photography “rules”…….and – then – rock those broken rules while you’re at it!…..example……that gorgeous photo of Lainey with the goggles (at the pool). Your crop is reallllly close to her – but, despite the fact that they “tell us” you’re supposed to leave lots of room, so the subject has room in the photo to “look into”…..well – any dummy can see that Lainey is looking well beyond the viewer – and the photo is gorgeous!! (These are comments from a totally amateur, hobbyist photographer – who has soooo very much to learn still – so, I feel that I have to take the ‘rules’ very seriously!) ๐
And finally – that whole “inspiration/who am I?” thing usually takes us much longer to resolve than it’s taken you! For years (when I had time to think about it) – I often thought – “who am I? Am I Ray & Ruth’s daughter, Phillip’s wife,(and later widow) Kathryn’s Mom, single Mom, Fed Gov’t employee, auntie, niece, friend, sister – just who the heck am I – and who/what most influences that?”
Finally – at the ripe old age of 60 – I have come to the conclusion that I am all of the above – all melded into ME! I have been blessed, stretched and enriched by each and every one of the definitions….and although I might have wished that a few of the cards I was dealt in my hand of life, could have been played a little differently – I would never want any other hand, than the one I was dealt….
Thanks, Kelle….for reminding me of that, this morning! And of course, for sharing your little beauties. I love the shot of Nella resting her little head on Daddy, as she soaks up some mornin’ lovin’…………..Rosemary
Heidi says
Linda – thanks! It’s nice to know I’m not alone! I know millions of mothers before me have done this successfully as will millions after me, but I didn’t realize how emotional it would make me!
jordbรฆrpiken says
Oh, how I love visiting your blog, looking at your lovely photos and your beautiful family. Thank you for all the inspiration you share. You make me want to become a better photographer, and the most important thing, a better mother. Best wishes from Norway. ๐
j210209 says
I can’t actually pick a favorite photo of Nella from this post.. They are all so beautiful! She looks so much like Lainey in the photos with the blue dress.
Beautiful as always x
Leah says
Gorgeous photos. The one of Nella getting hugs from her Daddy is utterly beautiful.
Jorie says
I can never say this enough…that Nella is absolutely gorgeous and growing magically every time you post! And that big sister…she looks likes such a happy spirit!
Enjoy the weekend!
paige says
i get this.
As a mama of 7 – motherhood is a big part of what i devote my days to – & most people would say that motherhood *singularly* defines me… but they’re wrong.
i *do* relish this short season – with all my chickies in our nest… & i do give myself wholeheartedly to the task at hand – knowing i only get one chance & i wanna come out of this *spent*.
Dinastia FilipiNHa says
And what a great source of inspiration they are! So beautiful!!!!
Thank you so much for sharing this lovely moments!
Filipa (from Portugal)
Sara says
Kelle- I can identify so much with your post. Sure, motherhood defines me, but so do many, many other things – mother, daughter, friend, wife – and I was reminded of them all while celebrating my youngest’s 1st birthday. Spending quality time with good friends, good food, and family. I enjoyed catching up with our friends while watching OUR children, OUR babies, play together in the grass. Life is such a beautiful and precious thing – and no matter how busy things get, I am reminded so often in your wonderful posts to drink it in. Thank you – and enjoy your time on your magical isle! ๐
Heidi Lee says
Kelle! I am at my mom’s checking your blog since I lost all your pics! Nella is so adorable…she is getting so old! And I love how you describe the way Lainey talks…wait till she stops talking that way!! You will be sad!
I love your posts!
jennjohn says
I have worked with kids and adults with developmental disabilities my whole career and I really agree with your Dad when he says that it is a “purer-perfect” I always tell everyone when they act as if what I do is so special, that I am the one who is forever changed by the honesty, the unconditional love and acceptance. I say these individuals are the purest form of what all human beings should strive to be, happy, peaceful, accepting, honest(sometimes brutally) in their pleasure and discomfort. You will learn so much from Nella and from how others react to her. She will distinguish you as do all our children. It is an honor to raise children and to be chosen to raise this angel, how lucky for you!!!
Linda MG in Soquel, CA says
Oh, HEIDI..yes, millions b4 and after, but that doesnt help a WHOLE lot when we are the ones feeling it, huh? Of course it is emotional – I so remember like yesterday, when my first went to preschool. I walked away in tears, and she was in tears. Later that day, during quiet time at school, the head teacher called to see if *I* was ok, after helping my daughter calm down! That meant the world to me; she understood this mommy heart. Enjoy this season, Heidi, for it is gone too quickly and you will yearn for these years, friend. Have lots of fun and “enjoy the small things”. Linda MG (blog mama)…
Corinne says
Nella’s eyes… oh my… gorgeous ๐
It’s amazing when we have time to sit with our own minds and thoughts and scoop out a bit of time for our words… rarely do they flow as easily as with a babe on the hip and juggling a million things! ‘Tis life, and this phase… and it’s so good. Gorgeous words & photos, as always.
Rik says
When we sit with our own minds, we should always find the company stimulating and comfortable…like the friend that, to be with, makes us…more.
Linda MG in Soquel, CA says
Awwm RIK – as always, GREAT words! I SO love that. Yes, when we “sit” w/ourSelves, with our own minds – well, let’s hope we like that company we keep! And that we are our best friend too (rather than our wort enemy – that’s something we struggle with at times in messing up our lives a bit, huh?). Hope YOU are having a great wknd and always look fwd to your comments~
Rik says
Awww, you made my heart skip. Thank you. It’s my birthday.
Linda MG in Soquel, CA says
To KWQR (Kate)-OH, i just love your writing (“to think of it as a liquid thing..”). Oh my, that is just beautiful. And I agree, Kelle, you seem to come close to having the perfect balance. And to LIGHTKEEPERSDAUGHTER (Rosemary) – I love how you wrote “I have been blessed, stretched, enriched by..”. Wow, many commenters here have such a way with words!! And I agree there, too, Kelle – you’ve come to realizations that take some much longer. You’re ahead of the game! I love coming here; it is such a bright, inspirational community and that all starts with YOU, Kelle!
Linda MG in Soquel, CA says
RIK**- Say WHAT??! Its’ YOUR BIRTHDAY?!! Woohoo and yahoo and HAPPY BIRTHDAY! oH, i mean it from my heart – I feel like I know YOU, too, from being part of Kelle’s world ( a bit of it at least) here, and this family,community. And all your wonderful words and insights and wisdom and your good heart that shines thru. I DO hope that you are doing whatever brings you joy on this special day. Maybe you will be out there with some of those awesome DANCE moves of yours?! haha.. Again, have a wonderful Birthday Rik!!
The Sanchez Family says
Happy Birthday Poppa!
And seriously Kelle…your girls are just breathtaking! Nella Bean, oh my, she takes my breath away. Can we arrange a marriage now with my little Joaquin ๐
Love it!
Flower Patch Farmgirl says
All of my other hats would look so lonely and forlorn were they not tossed atop my Mama hat.
ps – Nella’s blue dressssss! Adore.
Casey Martinez says
Your kids are just too darn cute! Seriously, what adorable girls, cute outfits and just all around sweetness…though I’m sure they tire you out just as my adorable little gal does from time to time:). Hope you have a wonderful holiday tomorrow!
P-nut says
Oh how i’ve missed your blogs! This week i will be catching up on my kelle fix!!
I love this line: “And while I am aware that mothering cherub-cheeked littles will not always be the source of full-flowing inspiration, I know that loving them will.”
beautiful… nella is really changing.. those blue eyes are piercing… and i love the pics of lainey hugging her… SO CUTE!
Truthful Mommy says
“And while I am aware that mothering cherub-cheeked littles will not always be the source of full-flowing inspiration, I know that loving them will.” Truer words have never been spoken.Happy Mothering, my friend!
http://motherhoodthetruth.blogspot.com/
Life according to Me says
Nella’s eyes just KILL ME! They are some of the most BEAUTIFUL eyes I have ever seen!
hannah says
kelle ive been on vacation in my own salty sunkissed town so i have gotten behind on reading your blog, but tonight i was refueling! beautiful photos. beautiful words. beautiful family
carlio says
I think Nella is beginning to look a bit like Lainey. Especially in the photos of your big girl entertaining your little girl.
Randi says
Oh. My. Word. Beautiful inspiration DOES. NOT. get any better than this. This set of photos made me want to look back on Nella and Lainey’s growth too….time sure does blink by….these girls are BLOOMIN!!!!!!!
Randi xoxo
Leah Alexandra says
I’m in the same place Kelle, the last few day gets everytime I sit down to write I just stare at the page, or type a sentence only to erase it right away. I think you just inspired me to sit down and finally put just put down whatever come to my mind. Thanks for (hopefully) helping me get over my block!
PS I love watching Nella grow and change. My son is a few months older then her, he turns 1 in a fews weeks and i can hardly believe it!
Leah
http://www.lovelifeandmommyhood.blogspot.com
medina family says
just amazing pics…I really want to be able to take shots like that of my kids. I’m trying and learning.
You’re girls are beautiful…but I bet you already knew that.
Susan
Crystal says
And while I am aware that mothering cherub-cheeked littles will not always be the source of full-flowing inspiration, I know that loving them will.
Isn’t that the truth!
As a mom of a houseful of kiddos…
A mom who feels lost far too often…
A mom who chips away shards of herself to find the woman buried below that sometimes forgets to even stop and look in the mirror…
You’ve summed it up so well. Your words could not be more true.
I struggle to give everything I can, but I adore every minute knowing they grow far too fast.
Thank you!
(And Nella… in that white bonnet with feet bottoms peeking out from under the hugs and love of big sister… just melts my heart!)
Have fun at the beach!
Kathryn says
Both girls are so beautiful but my, oh my! Nella’s eyes!!! They almost look like they have violet streaks in them. They are stunning!!!
Lori McPherson says
Lainey looks so grown up in that close up photo. She is simply breathtaking.
lightkeepersdaughter says
Rik – it’s your birthday!? What?! I didn’t know Poppas had birthdays – I thought they were ageless!:)
Happy Birthday anyway! I hope it was a joyous day of celebration for you and the people you love!
And LINDA MG – thank-you! I’m humbled that you think my little pecked out words were something comment-worthy! You are very kind……..Rosemary
jennywren says
Love the new top to your blog! Very chic!
KWQR says
Happy birthday Poppa! (Mine was the 3rd.)
Hope you had a wonderful day.
Virgos rock!
xo
Kate
amypins says
i’ve thought of you often lately, i too have seemed lul and dull in the world of creativity and inspiration. I seem to be isolating some even from those closest to me. i need a jump start. and for awhile worried, that it wasn’t coming, but i know it is. and sometimes we must just find contentment in the here and now, with or without inspiration for later, and we realize it is the cycle of our lives. if we were constantly caught up in inspiration we miss out on the little things that in the end, become our inspiration. i hope that makes sense.
on another not, i traveled north today. and here in minnesota that’s saying something. i traveled so far north i could’ve hit canada by sun down had we continued to drive. and on the drive i noticed, slowly, the tip tops of some of the trees were just starting to turn, yellow and red, and it got my heart beating a little faster. it was cool here this weekend, 60 and 65 for the highs, inevitably a tease into what’s around the corner. fall. snuggles under sweaters and blankets and hot cider. it’s coming, and those changes help with our cycle into bigger inspirations. like i said, it’s the cycle.
Stacy Hart says
I love Rik’s comment. Your children are so blessed to have so much love that surrounds them. Beautiful photography as always! Have a great holiday in Capri!
TRB Holt says
Happy Holiday Weekend to you and yours too Kelle…………….
xo, Bug & Ruby’s Gram
Farmgirl Paints says
i’m refueling just reading along with you. love those pics with sweet nella in that blue flowery dress. could she be any more scruptous. i seriously just want to slobber her with kisses. happy holiday weekend to ya:)
Ryan says
Oh Kelle, beautiful words again … tugging at my heart strings as a hopeful-future-mommy. I love that you found your inspiration where it is always abundant. Happy Holiday Weekending to you!
Sophie says
I love that gorgeous blue dress Nella has on….Oh and her eyes are just beautiful in it….
Amanda says
Don’t you just LOVE when they sleep with their little chubby legs all tucked up under their bellies!! My 16 month old still sleeps that way every night and I can not get enough of it! It is just too cute!!
Mary says
first off, my goodness how i love your photos! i am the proud mother of a 7 week old & i must tell you, your blog has inspired every fiber of my being to take pictures of the beauty that surrounds me – my daughter, my husband, my parents, my sister, five brothers & their families, our friends… im so grateful for stumbling across your blog, you have no idea! thank you.
i wanted to ask which lens you used on your first few photos. i’m oh-so looking to buy an early birthday gift for myself & my heart is fixed getting a new lens.
thanks a million – you’re a pleasure to read.
Jen Currier says
I also found myself looking for inspiration recently, and found it and more when I decided to jump into a mini living room makeover!! I had been wanting to get to it all summer, and considering summer is basically over, the time was now. And, wow. Inspiration, fresh perspective and a hella sense of accomplishment followed.
Cheers to always looking for the nuggets of inspiration! OXOX
Ashley says
You’re genuine. And that’s why I keep coming back to your blog. Thanks for the inspiration to be a terrific mom and true to self too.
Starrymedgirl says
I loved your description of being distracted while trying to write. I get that, OH, I get that. ๐ Your girls are so lovely. Hope you had a wonderful labor day!
Jocelyn says
Nella’s blue flowery dress is devine! You must tell where you got it from! I am in love with it.
Your kids are simply wonderful and at a time when motherhood is pushed to the side, it is wonderful to see that you embrace it whole heartedly!
Mama Fee says
Love, love, love your blog. I am a blogger too! feel free to read mine. I am 4 days overdue with my first baby girl trying to connect to new mama’s!
Romaine says
Your pictures are beautifull as always, just wondering why the boys don’t feature as much as your girls?
Nella has the most gorgeous eyes!
Rachael says
Oh my goodness. Nella’s eyes. They just drink you in!
Heidi Gerhardt says
Nella just keeps getting more and more beautiful by the day!
Heidi Gerhardt says
Nella just keeps getting more and more beautiful by the day!
The Johansen's says
Nella’s blue eyes are beautiful!!! She is just an angel!!!
Mygirls says
I have been a follower since Nella was born! A friend of mine who works at Beaumont Hospital passed your blog and story on to me and I have been hooked since. You are an inspiration to us all! Thank you for sharing your beautiful life with us!
Noan says
Your post reminded me of these words I read in a NYT column and placed in my journal because they so reminded me of my beloved summer vacations on the shores of Lake Michigan. Noan
“Maybe this is what we get in life, a few great loves: loves that return us to ourselves when we need it most. And maybe some of those loves aren’t people, but places – real and adopted homes – that fill us up with light and energy and hope at moments when we feel especially tired or lost. That is the beauty of love in all its forms. We don’t know when or how it is going to save us.”
Adrianne says
I found your blog from baby center. I am a December mom. I just want to say your family is beautifully amazing. I love the way you narrate your life. I also wanted to comment on Nella’s birth story. It was so touching and so beautiful. You are a very inspiring woman. You make me smile. Thank you for such an amazing story.
~KC: says
They are still here…Just catching up on some posts (I’ll be back when I can to read more). I’m with you…Love is the biggest and most powerful source of inspiration…I have been refueling as well…with my AN…I have two more weeks to enjoy them… ๐ ๐ ๐
Way to go Lainey & Nella! Loving the new header! Happy Belated Birthday Rik!
Rik said: “(Poppa) From the beginning of this journey, I have said “Nella won’t define us, she will distinguish us.” I remember worrying will life ever be the same?, and now I am glad it won’t be. It will be better. Better because some things were distilled away in the crucible. What remains is purer. A new perfect that some, I am sure, cannot understand. A purer perfect–if that makes any sense…” Rik, your beautiful comment has me in tears! I know exactly what you mean…I feel exactly the same way about our J…I see the magic in our girls…I can hear the same music you hear…I get the new “purer perfect”…
Lots of Love~
“We are not here to fit in, be well balanced, or provide exempla for others. We are here to be eccentric, different, perhaps strange, perhaps merely to add our small piece, our little clunky, chunky selves, to the great mosaic of being…we are here to become more and more ourselves. We, too, must enjoy amazement at what unfolds from within us while our multiplicitous selves continue to incarnate in the world, contribute, and confound.” ~James Hollis