I don’t always know what I’m going to write when I sit down to put a new post out. Sometimes, an attempted short and meaningless post turns into a very purposeful piece of writing and likewise, sometimes an attempted thesis gets backspaced, backspaced, backspaced until nothing’s left but a “Hey, Happy Friday.”
I mentioned rediscovering my voice the other day–something I didn’t lose so much as perhaps got preoccupied with what it sounded like….walking on eggshells a bit so that I don’t offend a public audience but, in doing so, changing my voice.
But, I’ve come to a place where I’m not afraid anymore. I am an alto. I’ve heard the radiant sounds of sopranos and wished I could sing that high, but I can’t. I’ve envied the bold tones of the tenors, but my chords can’t compete. I am an alto, and the rich melodies of an alto, interlaced between the sweet sounds of sopranos and the bellowing bass and the bold notes of tenors puts out a hell of a chorus…together.
I am one of many voices, and I am grasping the reins of my own.
Giddy-up.
One of the areas I have avoided, so as not to offend, is Down syndrome. Parenting a special needs child is complicated. No one knows what the hell they are doing and somewhere, deep inside many of us, there is still hurt. We look to others to see how they do it and when we see something different, sometimes we shrivel. Or question ourselves. Maybe even criticize.
Here’s the thing. I don’t know what the hell I’m doing. And at the same time, I know exactly what the hell I’m doing and I believe in it with every breath in my body. Because I am governed first and foremost by love. I applaud and celebrate all the other ways people are doing it out there because I know they are governed by the same. Together, we are all fighting for the same thing. Special needs, typical needs, one kid, two kids, young kids, old kids, no kids. We are all on the same team.
I am ready to feel free again in talking about it…this little extra magic of that 47th chromosome. And, most likely, my declaration of feeling comfortable in talking about it will lead me right back into what works for us, what guides us, what governs us. And that is celebrating the right now where chromosomes take a back seat to sidewalk chalk and pumpkin bread and a fabulous pair of chocolate colored leggings that scream Fall.
I don’t know how I got here. And by here, I mean this peak of the mountain that seemed so daunting. Oh, I know there are more mountains. Bigger ones, yes. But the one I’m standing on seemed so big, so insurmountable, so lonely, and now that I’m standing here, I have to tell you…it’s exactly where I’m supposed to be.
Our Buddy Walk is next weekend. You know, the Buddy Walk someone told me about when Nella was two months old and I laughed and said to Brett, “Just so you know, I won’t be ready to do one of those things for like, years.”
And here we are…my biggest fear being how my first born will feel completely and utterly as amazing as she is and hoping her little 46 chromosomes won’t feel like they got the shaft.
That’s a doll on her lap…not Nella.
Am I scared? Yup, sometimes. Am I hopeful? Definitely. Am I aware of the reality of what we are facing? Absolutely. But mostly?
I am happy. And I am in love.
With two amazing little souls. Two amazing little voices. They are different…like altos and sopranos. But they are perfect.
Maybe it’s the Buddy Walk. Maybe it’s the upcoming holidays. Maybe it’s the fact that, in a little more than three months, we will light a candle on a cake and sing “Happy Birthday” to the one who surprised us in beautiful ways.
Regardless, I said it, I mean it, I own it. And I’m not backspacing it.
For the many who have asked and expressed interest, a fund raising page will be up soon for Nella and all the other designer-gened kittens out there if you’d like to donate. We are so grateful you have supported us in so many ways, and I like to think it all just rolls back to you in your own challenges in life.
And, with all that said…
Tonight, I’m feeling like the little people Lainey has learned to draw. On the sidewalk. On paper. In books. On cards. They are happy little people with long stick legs.
I can’t explain it, but somehow these little creatures are the essence of contentment. Dude, they don’t even have arms. But here they are, just a grinnin’. And you should see the array of colors they come in. Oh, they are happy.
Nella’s learned to claw off her glasses and does so frequently. And I know exactly when it’s gonna happen because, after a good fifteen minutes or so of oblivion, she gets a crazy look that’s followed by a mad swipe…and off they go.
So, there. I think that’s it, and I have no idea where that all came from.
The real point of this post was…
Giveaway winner! Lainey drew the number tonight (or clicked the mouse on random.org).
Comment #812, Kelly said: I have been *wanting* a Beaba Babycook since before I found out I was preggo (now due in one month!). It looks so fun! Pick me! Love the new header!
Congratulations, Kelly! Please e-mail me your mailing info to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net, and we’ll get a Beaba Babycook out to you before that baby arrives!
And a shout-out to Bel Kai Designs for renewing their sponsorship! Check her out.
Needing some of this…
Happy Friday!
YAAAAY first one to comment:) I’ll go back and read now..
…i think I’m little afraid to go on a buddy walk just yet…maybe next year. But for now, I’m glad I have your blog and others to feel normal about my emotions this year. Nella looks beautiful as always! ox
Oh Love your posts! Nella and Lainey are adorable as always! have a good thanksgiving weekend!
You’ve got two sweet little girls who have a beautiful momma. I really enjoy reading your words, whether fore-thought(is that a word?) or not…they’re all inspiring.
Love the pics
Congrats to the winner
Oh, I can just feel the love. And I love your blog because you are all mushy like me about your babies! Again, just wonderful photos. I love the 4th one of Nella (with her cute little lips)- so adorable.
I just knew you were updating! Late for you Kelle, tired girl!
Gorgeous little bundles as usual…
I’m off to Vegas with my camera to capture family moments like you!
I have to make a video tomorrow and I went back and watched yours from Oprah to get it right! Wish me luck!
Thank you, Kelle.
I love the pictures of Nella sleeping. Makes me want to go cuddle in bed with my little guy just so I could watch him sleep.
Also if you have trouble with Nella keeping her glasses on, just pick them back up and put them on. Let her tire out before you do. (advise from my mom =])
Thanks for the beautiful pictures as always-gives a visual to the beautiful harmonies your girls are making together. 🙂
We have little stick people appearing all over our house right now too, and I love it! Was just going to post about it, too. Great minds…
The 4th pic, Nella with her glasses & white sweater-she looks wise beyond her chromsomes. Stunning.
I appreciate your admitting to the use of backspace. The backspace key is a familiar friend.
I think you nailed motherhood with this- “Here’s the thing. I don’t know what the hell I’m doing. And at the same time, I know exactly what the hell I’m doing and I believe in it with every breath in my body.” Yup, nailed it.
We celebrated the 1st birthday of my ‘littlest’ today. It was a great day. I enjoyed reading this post-thanks for a nice end to a wonderful day.
So eloquently put as ever. The thing about parenting any child with differences is learning to let go of expectation, ignoring judgements and reverting to our base selfs. For me this journey is half science/half instinct. He is my son, he grew under my heart, he is part of me. I will leave it to him to guide me and trust in the love we have.
Don’t ever be afraid to allow your voice to soar.
That last pic of Nella sleeping makes me want to sleep! How lucky your girls are that they can be THAT comfortable and loved. Just love everything about you and your family. 🙂
I am so glad you are finding your “uninhibited” voice again! That is one of the greatest things you can do for yourself and all your readers. Also wanted to give a shout out to picture 2 (right side), 4, & 5. I absolutely love them!!! 🙂 Happy Friday to you and your BEAUTIFUL family.
“Life is like writing a novel: You set off in a certain direction and then end up somewhere else all together. Upon your arrival at your surprise destination, you think, “If only I’d known then what I know now, this is where I would have been going in the first place. This is where I belong.”
~Second Draft of My Life by Sara Lewis
(Currently the quote on the header of my blog)
I long to be so comfortable with my voice as you seem to be. It seriously wouldn’t matter if you sang alto, tenor or soprano – you’ve got quite a few followers who would listen when you sang even if it were off key!!
I actually attended a Buddy Walk in Bethel, CT last Sunday. I didn’t take any pictures – I was there by myself and kind of felt like that creepy person who didn’t belong. It was small – very small – at a little (read tiny!) resturaunt on the corner of the main stretch of the town. I don’t know anyone personally with down syndrome but had to go and support because of your family!
Nella looks soo much like Lainey in that very first picture of her! She’s getting so big! Can’t believe it’s only 3 months till the big ONE!
And by the looks of it – Lainey and her 46 chromosomes don’t look like they feel like they got the shaft!! That smile comes from deep within!!
I’m sure you’re tired of hearing this from me – but I’m working on moving down to Naples to be a nanny… I already have the job it’s just a matter of closing things up in CT :::Exhausting!!::: And I got to thinking about how you moved to Naples and was wondering if a post about your life “pre-Florida” and what made you decide to move would be anything you would be interested in writing about… just a thought!!
~Beth
FEAS613
So honored that you made it to a little Buddy Walk. Even if you didn’t feel like you belonged there…you belonged there. The feeling of “not belonging” in itself was what the Buddy Walk is all about…fighting to show we belong. We all belong. The fact that you were there speaks volumes. Thank you. Perhaps we can meet up in Naples! (and stories pre-Florida to come.)
How open you are with your feelings and your thoughts touches my heart.
You are amazingly strong and I hold you in such a high regard.
Amazing.
I think the best thing about having a blog like this is that you get to freely say what you’d like- especially because it’s about your family. These are your fears, these are your thoughts, these are your hopes. But more importantly, this is your space. If I go into someone’s house and observe them, just because I’m there gives me no right to criticize how they run their household. It’s similar with your blog- even with two young children, one with special needs. You are ahhhmaazing kelle, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Sing that alto voice high and proud, girl!
Nella, with her little glasses, looks so much like a young journalist. Like she’s ready, man. She’s got some pen and paper and she’s taking NAMES. I think it’s adorable. And lainey…wow. she looks so grown up, with her chalk in one hand and determined expression on her face (those smiling stick leg people? look AWESOME. Go lainey!)
The last picture of nella and her tuff of hair? I totally wish I wasn’t 18- cause I just fell in love so hard and i want one <3 Nella is adorable, and I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again, she was meant to be here, extra chromosome and all. She is a gift that will keep on giving, and I believe that wholeheartedly.
Have a fantastic friday and weekend, kelle! Holidays are right around the corner.
I love your blog, your pictures, your thoughts and those beautiful babies. They are both so adorable. Your blog is uplifting and comes from the heart. Keep on doing what you do, you are changing lives and giving people hope..
Dude. You so get it.
Lovin’ the happy stick legs people.
Happy Friday!
Kate
I love this post.
All I have to say is that you are AMAZING and I love this post. Hands down, I look forward to reading your blog the most.
Every day, you amaze me. As a mother of two children, I sometimes look at the clock and can’t wait until it is bedtime because I have had enough for the day. But then I read your take on life and realize, I should embrace all of that happiness (and crankiness) that they exude.
Much props to you, mama! However you are doin’ it, you are doin’ it right!
I just have one question, How do you pick which pics to frame???
They are all so good!
dude, You always sum up my feelings exactly about that little extra chromosone. There are so many of us that don’t know what the heck we are doing but ya gotta (in the words of Joe Dirt) Keep on keepin’ on! Another beautiful post, I can’t get enough pics of your beauties. Caleb is in love <3
What offends some inspires others and in your case, I think you’ve inspired more people than you can imagine. I think it’s great you have found your voice again…alto it is!
I love your last picture of Nella tonight. What a perfect way to end such a great post.
Hugs from Iowa,
-Jenny
Thank you SO MUCH for this post, for being ready to write what you did.
My daughter & s-i-l went on their first Buddy Walk a couple weeks ago w/ their little Calla Grace, who has Down syndrome. (She was born Jan. 12, so she’s just a couple wks older than Nella.) I think my daughter was apprehensive about it, knowing that there would be not only the cute babies & toddlers w/ Ds, but also those who are much older. She was afraid it might bother her to see the variety of levels of disability. However, it turned out to be a very positive experience & a fun day at the park where they had the (short) walk and then picnic food for everyone. I hope your experience turns out great too!
This is one of my favorite posts of yours, although I always think that everytime you post something new!
I don’t think any of us know what the hell we’re doing when it comes to parenting. How I wish their was a handbook with all the rules. I think the only thing you can do is love your babies more than anything, learn by your mistakes and try and guide them in the right direction. This is what I try to do but who knows, I might be doing it all wrong!
Happy weekend Kelle! x
LOVE Lainey’s little happy guys.
And Nella? I see little teeth poking through! 🙂
What a beautiful post! Congrats to making it to the peak of the mountain! 🙂
kelle- you are amazing!!! your girls are beautiful. i love that you live your truth.
you inspire me because you are able to deal with heartache and sadness while at the same time embracing and enjoying life.
although our struggles are different (my identical twin daughters were both stillborn)- you make me see that it’s okay to be happy and embrace the life you’re given- not wish away the life you have hoping for something that never will be.
i know you may not realize it, but you touch people who deal with ALL sorts of struggles, special needs, and issues. you have definitely helped me in my own journey through grief. ((((hugs))))
keep doing what you’re doing because you ROCK!!!
xoxo,
erika
Perfect and beautiful and dead on. Lovely.
You girls are going to rock that Buddy Walk. Ours was last weekend in Jax and I’ve been trying to compose the perfect post about it all week. It was number 8 for us and Mylie will be 8 at the end of the month. I hope that it is as wonderful an experience for you as it is for us. I struggle to find all the right words (or voice) myself. You’ll see.
To the mom who is hesitant…don’t be. You’ll be amazed and blown away…trust me.
I am an alto too. :o)
You are doing a great job Kelle! Nella is a beautiful child who happens to have DS. A beautful soul she is and has taught you and many others so much and will forever continue to do so.
:o)
Sometimes when I’m feeling overwhelmed, I say this line to myself. I can’t take credit, I read it Kate Gosselin’s book Multiple Blessings… Referring to her sextuplets:
“Tomorrow they’re only one day older than they are today.”
I don’t care where you stand with Kate Gosselin, but you gotta admit, that’s good!
It slows me down and puts me in the here and now! So, before you go worrying about the next mountain to climb, stay on top of this one a while and enjoy the view!
Thank you for your beautiful posts, they truly inspire me.
You keep up your voice and people will read and react as they will. Seems like you’re met with only love and support and gratitude, so you must be doing something right!
I have a tough time with my own voice and style on my blog. Sometimes, when it’s no all peaches, I just want to write all the snarky bitter thoughts that are in my head…I want to give all my feelings a voice but I don’t want to just bitch and moan and sound whiney and ungrateful…well, it’s a constant battle, isn’t it! keep charging!
xoxo
Melina
http://www.thewildercoast.com
I absolutely love you! And more importantly, I love your little ones! Nella and Lainey are dolls.
I just had to say, I find you inspirational. Honestly. I stubbled onto your blog from a baby board someone sharing it and the story of Nella’s birth. It was touching. I bawled like a baby and had to share with my boyfriend and mother. I didn’t cry b/c it made me sad but cried b/c I felt like how strong you really were, how great of a mother you are and how I knew you, knew your feelings.
Sorry this has become very long. Just had to say hi. Love your blog! Meant to say hi a while ago, haven’t gotten around to it.
Lovely post Kelle. I wrote this post http://mrsmasonrecommends.blogspot.com/2010/10/helping-hand-of-motivation.html after I read your comments last week. I strongly believe that when we put ourselves out there we reap so much back. Keep it coming and have a great weekend xx
Reading this post gave me the same feeling as when you first wrote after Nella’s birth! I want to reach through the computer and give you such a big hug. One verse that keeps coming to my mind lately is Love covers a multitude of sins. And, why do I think of you here? Not b/c of any physical fault you are trying to cover… NO. By choosing to LOVE, you are choosing not to fear, worry, pity, etc… We all do experience those feelings of course, but then….(I believe!!) God helps us to find our feet and LOVE. and living life with Lots o LOVE only has benefits! Thanks for wording it so simply. ahhhh….I feel like backspacing all this and just say, LOVED the post. Thinking of you. How about I do both!
Oh Kelle, yet again you’ve written a post that just hits home in so many ways yet in hardly any ways! And I guess that’s what makes you such a fantastic writer….people of all walks of life can relate in one way or another & draw reason & rhyme from your posts…..and in turn gain so much inspiration! I’m always left with emotion after reading your posts & for that I love your blog! I love your honesty! I love your play with words & I love love love your photos!
All the best with the Buddy Walk. And I love Lainey’s stick people 🙂 My 2.5yr old Ella draws the same little people & you are so right Kelle….even with no arms, 1 large ear & 1 small, balding hair & different length legs….they are still smiling a smile that shows no fear, hesitation or regret!
A lot can be learnt from children…..as you would know Kelle!
xo
Another great post Kelle. Nella looks so friggin cute in her glasses!
Kelle, I have been reading your blog for a some time now, and I have been touched time and time again by the way you write and share your tales so honestly and beautifully.
Nella’s birth story is a piece of writing which has touched me deeper than anything else before. I lost my baby boy River at 39 weeks earlier this year and although our situations are not the same, I felt for you, I read with tears streaming down my face, and I thought to myself how lucky Lainey and Nella are to have you as their Mama.
Your girls are divine, and your words have helped me heal from the shocking loss of our River in more ways that one. You’ve got a special gift Mama, your inspiring the world, one blog post at a time. And you are absolutely stunning also. All my love xxx
I love reading your posts, i have a little kitten too, but she is now 4 , I also find that DS takes a backseat to family, sisters and brothers, and what is for dinner. PS, glasses are hard just keep trying and might want to get a back up pair….Carol
Kelle,
I love the way that you write and portray your life with such beautiful photos of your gorgeous family.
Your words about us all having our own voice whether it be soprano or alto and all blending are perfect.x
Ladies and gentlemen, on the mic, alto solo, Miss Kelle Hampton. Give it up!
Welcome back to band. (Just so you know, we never thought you lost your voice. You simply played some gigs where some audience members won some tickets from some radio station where they never play your tunes.)
I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. You own it girl.
Thank you for this post. Don’t shy away from that designer gene. It is beautiful, precious, different but normal. It will pay you back with love so powerful you’ll pinch yourself. At the Buddy Walk, I hope you feel what I feel: part of the crowd of regular folk celebrating our precious little rock stars.
Welcome back Kelle, even if you never left. Be the stick.
Phil
http://www.deedahandme.com/blog
Oh man, another comment!? I was so happy you found your voice, that I lost my train of thought.
Charlotte used to draw these smiling girls with distinctive off kilter dresses that were so cute I wanted to start a kids clothing line just to put it on as a logo. I think the the chalky stick legged smiler is even cuter!
You know how I feel about the Nella pictures. Constructive criticism: Never enough. Ahhr, SHE IS PRECIOUS!
Finally, speaking of Buddy Walk, Brooke posted about her trip to NYC and the Buddy Walk there. So everybody, if you have never attended one, I invite you to see what it is all about.
http://www.deedahandme.com/blog
Your lucky day as we are giving something away as well!
Phil
Thank you so much for sharing your sweet girls and beautiful family via your blog. You have touched my heart in so many ways. My family attended the buddy walk here in Charleston SC last weekend in support of a preschool classmate of my daughter’s and it was a wonderful experience for our family.
Designer-gened kittens? OMG, that’s the quote of the day!!!!! I love it!
You are right on track, Kelle, right on track.
Your daughters are very lucky to have you for their mother. Honesty truly is the best policy, it makes it real. We all struggle with parenting, whether we have a “normal” (whatever THAT is) child or one with special needs…there is no right or wrong, no set manual. The pictures of the girls are beautiful as always!
Beth (FEAS613), I am sitting here with tears streaming down my cheeks thinking about this lone walker, supporting our Nella, in a small troupe of sojourners on this global Buddy Walk. I constantly remember how new all this is…and my past experience with Down syndrome was the occasional encounter of passing a family at the Mall or in a restaurant. Now…I’m in, invited by a little girl with a big smile and a pair of adorable glasses. I hope she lends me her glasses from time to time, so I can keep seeing what is ahead. Thank you for your comments, everyone. I read them–every word. I am proud to be “on the walk” and hope I can be an advocate for inclusion, acceptance and celebration or these precious, powerful individuals who are more alike than different!
LOVED this post…love all the comments i’ve read so far…
just had to say this…because i thought it was so funny that the doll lainey was holding – you put ‘that’s not nella..its a doll’..
i have to say – over the past 2 weeks or so…twice i’ve *gasped* at what i thought was nella – but it turned out to be a doll.
one is where lainey is on the bed and there’s a doll laying super close to the edge…..i totally thought that was nella at first. so i have to laugh that you said that!!!
i hope y’all have a WONDERFUL buddy walk this weekend..!!
…you truely inspire SO MANY people – whatever their life is like…it may not be the same as yours…but yes, we all are on the same team..
♥nancie
Loved the sound of your “voice”,I guess because I can relate to it so well. My son was diagnosed with DS prenatally, so I was able to get a lot of grieving out of the way prior to his birth. That was a very, very dark time in my life. My son is 22 months old now, & I can honestly say that he is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. Wouldn’t trade him or his chromosomes for the world. I guess this means that, I too, have reached the summit of that first mountain. Enjoying the view….
You should make the girls shirts with the happy little people with long stick legs. lainey would love to see her art become wearable. Keep singing stronger adn stronger in your alto voice for Nella.
Kelle – Enjoy your first Buddy Walk and celebrate, as you say, “the little extra magic of the 47th chromosome.” However, I couldn’t agree with you more – chromosomes should always take a back seat to “sidewalk chalk and pumpkin bread and a fabulous pair of chocolate colored leggings that scream fall.” LOVE THAT! Our children with Down syndrome are SOOO much more than that extra chromosome. Like I always say, there are 100 words I could use to describe Jonathan, and Down and Syndrome don’t make the list:) Keep doing what you’re doing – You guys are doing great! Brooke May
Such a good post. Made me cry……
Nella sleeping on your bed…priceless!
So glad you are not using the backspace and that you are speaking out. DS is part of your life, of your family, of your reality and that is part of what makes your so special voice, the Kelle we love.
The Buddy walk is going to be amazing. I’m sure so many people are going to attend.
Have a great weekend!!!
Yes, I vote for stories about pre-florida.
I’m so glad you are singing the priases of DS. I am an elementary special education teacher, and one of the hardest parts of my job is making my students comfortable with their disability. I always teach them to live it, learn it, love it! You shouldn’t shy away from talking about it… It’s who little Nella is! And she’s simply perfect! What an amazing journey you and your family have in store. I love reading your posts and hearing the voice of someone who loves life! So keep of living, learning, and loving!!
Kelle~I re-read Nella’s birth story often. How I love how you shared the most raw & frightening moments that I’m sure every parent who gives birth to a DS child experiences. Now, months later, we walked the walk with you to right where you’re supposed to be & we’ve all fallen in love with your little almond eyed princess. If every parent with a DS child could shout from the rooftops & share photos of their little angels, oh how we’d be in love with them all. Beautiful little souls, all. Nella is a lucky one. So much love & prayers from all over the world just because her Mama was brave enough to share her. I admire you so much. Wish I could be there for the Buddy Walk but know that I will be thinking of all of you.
Much love,
Maria
Lovely post. I’m glad you feel free to let your voice out again! Your girls are beautiful and your pictures always make me smile. I had my first baby earlier this year and like you, every day, I feel like I am happy and I am in love. Its amazing to me the huge amount of love these little folks bring to our lives.
Kelly, you are what I aspire to be daily: “the cup of strength to suffering souls.” Thank you for your beautiful writing and photos. They touch others (and inspire) others in ways you can’t imagine! Happy Friday my friend
I know you probably dont have a lot of time to check out other blogs but I follow one called Mila’s Daydreams and it is a photo-per-post blog with no commentary but something tells me you will love it. If you google Mila’s Daydreams blog you will find the url. I guarantee you will think it is adorable! The picture of Nella on the white sheet asleep, butt in the air with those rockin’ leggings made me think to share it with you : )
Love this post, and I urge you to please put out there the uncensored/ unabridged, and/or p.c. posts. Because what you might say is exactly what someone else wants to say or is feeling. And when it starts from love, it could never be wrong. just a thought. 🙂
love the new header!
Kelle, I found your blog several weeks ago and yup, that was me, a lurker, from Waupaca, Wisconsin in your Feedjit Log. Not that I live in Waupaca, but apparently my server does.
Anyhoo, I’m addicted to your blog like I am to coffee. When I read Nella’s birth story, I flat out cried, tears streaming down my cheeks. This has never happened before.
And you are such a Wordsmith, which I think you inherited from your dad. His version of Nella’s story was also incredibly moving as well.
I’m a little mommmy blogger in Wisconsin, (mommy to 3) but in the scheme of things, no one special, I just wanted you to know that I plan to share your blog in a post, because the beauty of blogging is just that, mothers sharing and encouraging…
Speaking of encouraging, when I discovered you (and your blog) I was pretty much disillusioned by people and my own faith…but your story, and your eloquent words reminded me that I don’t have to have a ‘label’ on my faith. Especially when it all boils down to a fierce love for people. That’s real faith.
And that faith was renewed in reading your posts…I thank you for that.
So, with that being said, in a strange blog-like way, I will secretly call you my friend (if at least because of our motherhood affiliation.) I’ve been wanting to comment for awhile, and I know you said you read all your comments…
Thank you for sharing your story, your talents, your rockin’ ‘soundtrack’ and mostly your precious family. 🙂
Enjoy your Buddy Walk! I know how you are feeling, I was scared to death about going to our first one, I had no idea what to expect, or how to feel, and let me tell you when we got there it all washed away. For the very first time I felt it was OK to be the parent of a child with Down Syndrome. People were looking at him, and with us, but with nothing but love and acceptance and understanding. It was what our family had been waiting for and wanting so badly. Enjoy and embrace it, it is a celebration, a tough one for the first time, but just be in the moment. At least that’s how it was for me….
I’m aware of the criticism out there and I’ve never understood it. I’m not here to stroke you or fawn over you. I just like what you do and how you do it. I don’t think it’s necessary to talk about Ds every second of the day. Anyway, I understand that first initial fear of the Buddy Walk. I’ve made it to the mountain top on that journey. I see the same beautiful light in adults with DS as I see in my son. I hope your Buddy Walk is a fun-filled adventure!
Lainey’s stick people are AMAZING! Seriously, the kid is a genius!
Your blog has made me not afraid. I used to be uncomfortable even using the phrase “special needs”… to me it seemed taboo. Growing up I had an uncle with severe autism. He lived in a facility from the time he was a little boy up until his death a few years ago. Special needs were never discussed at my home – not once have I ever heard my father talk about his brother. I never had the opportunity to meet him, and have never even seen a picture. Because it was such a forbidden subject in my home, I was afraid. But your blog has made me understand the world of special needs in a totally different light. I understand more, respect more, accept more. Obviously DS and Autism are very different, but like you said… we’re all on the same team.
Thank you for sharing your blog with the world. I love what you do. 🙂
Like Suzanne I too am addicted to your blog. I randomly stumbled on it a few months before Nella was born. Your outlook on life and the love you have for your family and for sucking the marrow out of life really made me “wake up”.
I no longer rush through the day just trying to accomlish the things on my list, I now try and savor each and every moment. whenever I need a reminder I come back to read a post.
Thank you for sharing your story with us! It is a dream of mine that someday I may get a chance to meet you on a trip to Florida. A girl can horpe right 🙂 Have a great weekend.
Kelle, just wanted to say Hi! I have been reading your blog since february, and I love it. I just wanted you to know that there was a very touching piece on t.v. the other night about Jamie Fox and his sister. It was such a touching piece about Down Syndrome and immediately thought about little Nella, and her relationship with her big sister.
Hi Kelle,
For what it’s worth I just want to encourage you with your blogging. I found first Nella’s birth story and thought “wow who is this chick?” I then read your entire post from beginning to end.
You bring a little bit of light into my day when I’m struggling balancing the full time mummy-ness, full time wifey-ness and the full time work from home. Thanks for your blog and for inspiring me to be a better mummy.
Love that you found the sound of your voice.
Love Mel xx
love it. especially because i’m an opera singer and have spent so long becoming comfortable in my own skin–as an alto. love!
Your posts are like soul balm.
This is your place, your story, and we’re listening.
Someone once told me… you’ve got two of these (and pointed to their ears) and one of these (pointing to their mouth). Do twice as much listening and half as much talking.
I’m listening to your stor- to {baby} Nella’s story.
How can anyone judge this place. Your soundboard. Your story? I’ve never understood it….
I adore your children! And those two new teeth are just darling!
More! Keep going. We’re all ears.
(And the drawing…. that is totally developmental. Soon she’ll draw arms, then she add a neck, and then finally even more detail…. you should see some of the stuff my kids have drawn…cute!!)
Well, I love sleeping photos of kids.. and especially babies.. So sweet… I know your governed by love.. and it keeps you going… I love the picture of Nella sticking her tongue out at the glasses….
Did you know the article I mentioned about HOlland??? let me know and I will get it to you.. if you have never heard it…
Lisa
Dearest Kelle.
Just stopping by to wish you and your girls (+ hubbie)
a really nice weekend.
Here in Oslo, Norway we’re hoping the sun to break throu the clouds.
Hi Kelle:
I’m a new reader. I’m the mother of three with one on the way. I agree with you: we’re all doing the best we can as mothers. You have to follow your gut, and your gut seems right on. =)
I love writing my own blog on motherhood and womanhood, and I’m happy to now have yours as part of the bouquet of blogs I read everyday!
God bless you and your beautiful family!
Erin, http://www.thesearemyreasons.blogspot.com
kelle,
i LOVE what you wrote about laineys stick people, “dude they dont even have arms, but they are a grinnin” so true.
we learn sooo much from children dont we? thank you for your words kelle, you inspire me to be better.
you are wise like your sweet daddy.
I love the new banner. The girls look so sweet. 🙂
Be proud about your writings of Down syndrome. You have seen the blessing in it instead of dwelling on the negative.
Hugs and Love!
Your posts are always so powerful. And Nella is a doll in those glasses!!
i love your blog. it’s beautiful and it makes me cry big, happy tears. especially today. something about lainey’s little stick figure happy person without arms. thank you.
So glad you decided to go with your own voice. You’re the only “you” in this world, and everybody needs you to fill that role- whether they like it or not!
So glad you decided to go with your own voice. You’re the only “you” in this world, and everybody needs you to fill that role- whether they like it or not!
Again, I love photographs of Nella when she is smiling really, really big. Her eyes actually squint closed. And I was thinking, there’s a lesson in that. All the things we are afraid of seeing–all those images our fears create, well, Nella reminds us, when we are really, really happy…we can’t see them. Our big smiles tell our eyes to close and just relish our bliss. Temporary blindness, caused my extreme joy. I can handle that!
I just love when you write straight from your heart! Your blog has opened my eyes to designer children everywhere ; ) There was a little girl at the park yesterday with Down Syndrome, I would say she was about 8. She was a beautiful little girl in her Catholic School uniform. I wanted to go up to her Mom and tell her about your blog, but didn’t know if that would offend her or not, so I didn’t. When I was in high school, I dated a guy who had a cousin the same age as us with DS. I just loved him, he was such a sweet guy. I still talk to him because he works at Chik Fil A, he always remembers me, 20+ years later. Still a happy go lucky guy! He grew up in a wonderful family like yours, his Dad is in charge of the Special Olympics in our city. I can’t wait to watch Nella grow up, she is going to have a fabulous life!
Your own voice is perfect…it’s what us faithful readers enjoy reading so much.
Also, our little guy, 10 months, got glasses on Monday. He’s our little Teddy Roosevelt. (check him out on our blog). And, like you, I can see when he wants to grab them off his face…and stick them straight into his mouth 🙂
Another great post! I love how you continue to inspire so many. Thank you for sharing your voice with us.
I also wanted to add that I have 8 children, and still feel like I don’t know what I am doing LOL They are all completely different people, and therefore have to be parented differently. I think this feeling of not knowing what the hell we are doing is common to all parents. Like someone said previously, love covers our mistakes. This is what I love about your blog, you are so easy to relate to. I love the voice you are giving to the Down Syndrome community, but you are also a voice for all Mothers. You are awesome!!!
I am glad to see that you rediscovered you inner voice… that’s something we all need to fight for! In a life of making others happy (or not unhappy), we easily end up losing ourselves.
I would love to contribute (with time &/or $$$) with your cause when you launch Nella’s fun raising page.
AMEN GIRL! You need to be YOU. Not who everyone else…oh wait…is trying to FORCE you to be. Of course there is censorship that is appropriate and things better left to the private, but this is your blog, your space, and your words. Someday moms will realize that we are all trying our damndest, and to quit looking down eachother’s noses and just support one another! Someday, right? I was reading and practically hooting and hollering as I read. I need a little cheerleading skirt…wait, my legs are pasty…scratch that.
And the glasses. Oh the glasses!!! Kelle! I could die. DIE. I think of you and your family every time I see a DS sweetie. And everytime I tear up and throw up a praise and a thank you to that family…for keeping that babe and for all their hard work. Because honey, I know you’re tired. You are happy, but you are tired. Being a mama is a lot of work. Being a mama with extras is ultra tiring. Love you, love your voice, love your heart.
Blog on girl!!! 🙂
So, I am sort of new to this blog thing and don’t know the etiquette of it all .. but a friend sent me the link when you posted about Lainey’s first ballet class and I’ve been hooked since. My sweet baby girl is a few months older than Nella and I am a first time mom and while I don’t want to use too many more words (for fear of cheapening the emotions felt after reading your own), I just wanted to say that you are inspiring and uplifting and remind me to dig deep and find my own strength when my bub is going through something difficult. I am constantly doubting myself as a new mom, but I’m reassured by your words in your blog that I’m “doing exactly what I’m supposed to”. So, I’ve used too many words .. but thank you “stranger-friend” .. thanks for the reaffirmation that I can hack this amazing (and tough) mama-job!
P.S. the soul in your daughters’ eyes – ooof, they catch me off-guard each time. Beautiful!
Lainey’s creativity is inspiring in itself. Although her little people don’t have arms, just some good legs and a great big smile- it such a picture of life itself. We may not need every body part, or everything in the world. We just need to love and be loved, to put a smile on our faces and warmth in our heart. They are beautiful, happy, colourful people and thats what makes our world go round.
Kelle, We did our first Buddy Walk last weekend for my 4 mo. old. He rocked the house and his 2 year old big brother enjoyed the ride. We find out for sure in a few hours, but we may win the contest for the most money raised! I was hoping for a couple hundred, and we are about to pass the $6,000 mark! Go rock out that Buddy Walk and have fun! If you have time to check out my blog, you’ll see pics of our awesome sign (Oct. 2nd post)…Levi’s 321 Genes. We even got permission from Levi Strauss Co. to use their logo! I hope you enjoy the walk.
http://secondtimearound-vernyvern.blogspot.com/
Your little girls seriously melt my heart. They could not be any cuter! I love your writing style!
Hello, fellow alto. Such beautiful harmonies we make. The choir is not complete without us.
I need to know where you got Nella’s pants. So cute.
Seriously, love will lead the way! I know that, as a mama to my own almond joy, we can get caught up in the worry of the future. But, now that Braden is 8 I’ve figured out that the future is just a string of todays. Each today has been full of more love and less and less worry. Because, seriously, how can you just not fall in love when those rainbow eyes connect with your soul?! And in the end, the thing that makes this life worth living, is the love! It’s how you feel, how you make others feel… You know this. It is the core of who you are. So, girlfriend, you and Nella bean are gonna rock it out!
Coincidently, I just blogged about this very thing. Kelle – come see my 5 munchkins at
http://musingsofmunchkinland.blogspot.com/
Oh and by the way, when our twins were born with only Braden having Down syndrome, I was worried for him. Funny thing is that 2 of my 5kids have on different occasions said “I wish I had Down syndrome” with their arms crossed and pouty lips out. Feeling like they did somehow get jipped. They loved all the games and prizes from therapies, loved his music therapy, and therapeutic horseback riding lessons. Their eyes were wide in amazement at our celebration at the Buddy Walk, the special event at the Zoo for Down Sydrome, the special invite he gets for professional sport events, the media coverage, the playgroups…plus, plus, plus!
On many occasions they have been jealous of him – not something I thought I was gonna have to worry about the day he was born. 🙂
I’m so proud of you for writing this. I believe God chose you for Nella, specially, because of your love and the ability you have to do great things for DS. Your family is just getting started and I can’t wait to see the positive changes you make!
amazing heartfelt post. I’ve been thinking the same things lately- I’m concerned with offending people and I end up holding back. But you didn’t and it was real and it was beautiful.
Coming here everyday is like therapy for me. My daughter is 8 weeks old and is also blessed with an extra chromosome. I knew the minute she was born. When I read your post about Nella’s birth story I sobbed because those could have been my words. Thank you for the inspiration and hope when I log on everyday. Follow your heart and speak your mind you touch so many of us walking in your shoes.
Even when I couldn’t hear your voice…I still did. It was down there somewhere underneath everything. I heard it and I loved it.
Thank you for sharing. I am so happy to watch you climb the mountains. With love, Becky
Kelle-You amaze me every time I read your post. We share a unique bond from one special needs mother to another! My son just turned 6 months old. We attended our 1st Buddy Walk in Charleston, SC. It was amazing to see all those little people with extra chromosomes running around. It will put a chill over you and tears will fill your eyes, but they aren’t tears of a “why me”, they are tears of “Thank You Lord” for giving me this speical child. I hope the Buddy Walk is a fantastic experience for your family!! Have Fun!!
I love the chorus I hear when I come to your blog. Your posts put together with everyone else responding with inspiring words….it really is a beautiful sound, Kelle! I know you’ve heard this a hundred times, but what you do here really does make a difference.
Can I share something with you that I’ve been wanting to share for a while? My cousin had a baby three months ago and,unexpectedly, little Owen has Down Syndrome. My son( he’s 4) and I were able to spend some time with him over this past weekend. You talk so much about that magic chromosome….we witnessed how magical it is. They are little angles right here on earth.:) I was waiting for the right time to share your blog with my cousin and I plan on doing that soon. Thanks for doing what you do.
xo
Kris
Kelle, I love your honesty!
As the big sister of a precious DS girl, let me encourage you a bit 🙂 I remember the Buddy Walks 🙂 And I enjoyed them just as much as my sister. I am 11 years older than my sis so I was at the teenage stage by the time we were doing stuff like that. But I still enjoyed it. Lainey will grow and become so much stronger as a person because of Nella! She’ll do great!
You are always such an inspiration. I love reading, and I just hang on every word.
I know I’m just a little person in the blogger world, but I wanted to let you know that I gave you an award! Check it out here – http://notjustamommyafterall.blogspot.com/2010/10/lookie-lookie-i-was-given-award.html
You will be fine. Lainey will love the Buddy Walk. It is exciting for everyone who participates. Believe me she won’t feel left out. We had 11,000 people do the walk in Cincinnati. I posted about it and how many lives were changed because of the walk. It is sooooooooooooooooo much fun!
Salem, OR had their buddy walk a few weeks ago. I was so proud to be part of “Team Rowdy” our perfect little buddy, one year old and wearing cowboy hats, scarves, boots, and all that we could find, we proudly walked together knowing that it takes a village, and Rowdy’s posse was ready. Your words are powerful, don’t shy away from the struggles…whatever therapy session, eye exam is getting you down, by voicing it, you in turn help others. If you haven’t discovered Rowdy yet, check him out…http://www.lanceanderikagustafson.blogspot.com/
I am Tutu
This post made me happy for SO many reasons, mainly because you are grasping the reins of your own and not allowing ANYONE to let you run for the roses!
I am part of your choir; can’t sing a note but I CAN hum and keep a mean beat!
Go get em’ Kelle!
xo, Bug & Ruby’s Gram
Giddy up, indeed. Saddle up partner…we’re going for a ride!!! I loved your sentence about rediscovering your voice, “…perhaps got preoccupied with what it sounded like.” Know this: real, raw, “bat-in-yo-face” honesty is so rare that it draws people in like a campfire. The odd person just feels the sting of the bat across their head and misses the overall point. Their loss, not yours. That’s what you have going on, here. I say throw some gas on the fire babe, but don’t ever put it out. Because then I would pack my suitcase, book a ticket, come down to Florida and spank you. xo
Lovely post…. lovely pictures (btw, Nella and her glasses = tooooo cute)
OMG – soo glad you got your voice back! This is YOUR story, YOUR feelings, YOUR emotions. We come here to be a part of your life. For those that are negative – they don’t need to visit! So don’t leave us and feed into their negativity – rather feed us with who you are, with what you are doing, with the life that you live to the fullest, sharing your family with all of us!!! We support you totally!Have an awesome weekend with your family and friends!!!
None of us really know what we’re doing – I think that’s the point. How boring would this old life be if we had all the answers before the questions even came up? All we know is we love them, and the answers come of that.
I love your blog, and I love that you’re writing what you really think and feel. You’re right, we’re all in this together, differently, but together.
Forgot to comment on Lainey’s stick people. My son just recently started drawing them and I know how happy those little creatures are. One night we drew clothes on them and we giggled like two kids in study hall. Those stick people are good for the soul! 🙂
A few nights ago I read the piece in Parenting. Then I reread Nellas’s birth story on your blog. What grabbed me most was your sister’s comment: that you were chosen.
If I were Nella, I’m pretty sure I’d want you as my mama.
Highs and lows, extra chromosomes or not, you’re one amazing lady, one amazing mama.
I don’t comment much because you get so many comments and I’m sure people tell you the same thing but I always read:) But I felt I needed to comment because I know how you feel about the Buddy walk. I was so afraid of what we would see or feel-would we see our son’s future and not like it? Would it be awkward for our family and friends? The answer was no to all of these. Having a child with Down syndrome can be so incredibly hard emotionally and physically but it can also be so incredibly rewarding.
I don’t want our whole lives to be Down syndrome. We’re just a typical American family, living our lives and making the best of it. But our son does have DS and I want to support him in any way I can so the Buddy Walk was one way for us to spread awareness, show others that we think our son is a rock star and try to help change the perception of Down syndrome. Bennett is 16 months now and we’ve been to two Buddy Walks and I can honestly say we’ve always had the best time. We will walk with Bennett every.single.year because we love him so much. I’m so glad you’re doing this for Nella. You will love it and I know you’ll come up with a cute theme and have a blast with it! Invite all your friends to walk with you and you’ll see the love that exists for these children-it’s truly amazing!
I love love love your blog. As a mom of a special needs child I understand where you are coming from and you are absolutely right. 🙂 The best advice I ever received was that I needed to take some time to mourn the child I *thought* I was going to have, and then I could truly appreciate the child God blessed me with. Once I did that I was able to see things much more clear, and then realized like you I am right where I am supposed to be. I also included my other kids in helping out and through that they are involved and don’t feel left out so no worries with your little one. One amazing thing that will come out of this is that Lainey like my other kids will have an incredible heart for other special needs kids as she grows. 🙂 your doing a great job Momma!
I think Lainey drew me. Happy face and long legs…OK. Maybe not. I wish though. I’ve always wanted long gams.
Anyway, your post reminds me of my good days. The days of when I absolutely, utterly and deeply KNOW that Gabe was suppose to be mine and me his, and that Down syndrome becomes only a small piece of our puzzle life.
On my not-so-good days, I worry over that little piece and usually it’s all for naught.
Don’t censor yourself over the worry of offending anyone. We’re all trying our best, with our kids with and without Down syndrome. And you’re doing a great job! Look at those smiles! You’re a lucky momma!♥
PS. Have a great time at your Buddy Walk! 🙂
Bless you sweet mama!!! Thanks you for being our voice or helping find our voice. Luvs & Hugs
One of my good friends I’ve know since my first week of college was blessed with a baby girl and was surprised in the hospital to learn she had an extra chromosome. We participated in the Buddy Walk and it is a wonderful event. I recommend it to everyone – DS affected or not!
Don’t lose your voice – speak out and do it loudly if you want to even if a few people don’t understand what you mean or misinterpret your honesty for something that they think should be hidden. Life is a roller coaster – we all have peaks and valleys and I love the fact that both are celebrated on your blog in words and pictures of sweet babies sleeping on a white sheet. Love to you and your littles.
Love the new title banner.
Kelle,
The world needs more people like you that aren’t afraid to speak their truth. Other’s can learn from you. My mum would said “Just be you and have fun with it….never apologize and never explain!”
Through caring for our special needs 3 year old I learnt so much about life, love, whats important and WHO was important in my life. I wouldn’t change the experience for anything.
If you ever have the time I would love to know if you ever use books on how to write and what they are. Your gift with words is inspiring…maybe its just you haha!
Give both your girls a kiss, I miss my special special needs girl so much.
love Diana x
Rik: Love it – “Temporary blindness, caused my extreme joy”. Kelle helps me remember that it doesn’t even have to be temporary – enjoying the small things had made that extreme joy a constant everyday….
-Jenny in Iowa
Absolutely LOVE the post. My aunt babysits a little doll with DS and she is the most loving little spit fire I have ever seen. I too will be participating in a buddy walk for miss Lilly Bug in a couple of weeks and I can’t wait! I love that you share your journey so openly and creatively. It amazes me!
Boring is lovely. Sidewalk chalk and chocolate leggings are amazing…and ALL the chromosomes rock…
Thanks for saying it!
Oh, I and I thought those glasses on Nella were for a fun photo op…How cuuute!!!! And for every day we don’t have glasses, I am excited…and my girlie is almost 8…she still wouldn’t wear em…
Have fun at the Buddy Walk…and never look for the next mountain! Here and now is a Good Place.
Happy Friday Kelle. I think you are doing a wonderful job. You have shed light on the fact that even though life can be harder and a little unknown with a child with special needs…it is still one amazing life….meant to be celebrated and made the absolute most of. I applaude you. Oh and I’m an alto too;)
I love this post because you are not afraid to say how you feel even when you don’t always know exactly “how you feel”! That’s part of it…figuring out how to use your gifts and your voice and letting go of the fear of offending others or saying the wrong things. As long as you are honest, you are always going to speak from a good place and that place is your heart.
When a friend recently had a baby who also has that extra lovely chromosome, she went into hyper-focus mode and her life became Down syndrome. It overtook her and every free moment was consumed with getting information, dwelling on the what ifs and advocating for her child who was just a few months old. Doing those things are certainly important, but honestly, we had an intervention with our friend. We told her…slow down, enjoy your baby, forget for two seconds that this child needs anything more than kisses, love and milk from her mamma. Because the truth is, during those moments she didn’t need anything more than those three things.
Thank you Kelle for being such a great example of how someone who receives this unexpected news can and should react. It is ok not to be on top of every article of research, not thinking months and years ahead. The more naturally we respond, I believe, the more normally and naturally society will see these children who are our gifts. And yet, when I look into their deep, expressive, eyes they are so extraordinary…they must know something very special that we do not!
Sorry for such the long comment!
I love what “Bikini by 30” said about your blog – so, here it is again! 🙂 “Your posts are like soul balm.” Totally reflects how I feel about your blog too!
You are such an amazing Mama! And – just for the record – none of us truly know what we’re doing. We truly know that we truly love our children – and pray that being guided by that love (and a little research here and there!) will be sufficient to take them through!
I often said when my beautiful, accomplished, well-adjusted daughter was a kid, that if she grew up well, it would be as much in spite of me, as because of me! And, I was speaking only half in jest!
Love all the new pictures of course – I smiled to read that little Miss Nella is ripping off those glasses from time to time – cuz, well – that’s what babies do – until they grow so used to them that they forget the addition sitting on their adorable little noses!
Happy Thanksgiving from Canada! We celebrate earlier than our American cousins – on the 2nd Monday in October…….so, this will be our weekend for family gathering, roasted turkey & stuffing, mashed potatoes, all the fixins – and pumpkin pie, – but mostly it’ll be about being thankful for all the blessings that we so often just take for granted!
Take care……..Rosemary
LightkeepersDaughter
This is a beautiful post! Thank you for sharing!
Your blog amazes me and makes me want to search my solo for my happy place. Thank you so much for sharing your talent with the world you are a true blessing in more ways then you will ever know.
And we have participated the Buddy Walk for several years now and I can honestly say it will leave you with and amazing feeling and more love then you can hold onto to.
Thanks,
Tobie
That you fell in love with your littles is no surprise. Different people are ready for different things at different times….have no fear or shame…and Love. Just love. And carry a big stick. Cuz sometimes a mama bear needs more than her claws. 😛 You’re awesome….keep up the good work with no apologies. Thanks for continuing to share your journey…we are all better for it. Hugs and blessings…Marissa
Yay for the Buddy Walk. We had a huge team for my son his first two years. Then a smaller team his third year. My daughter was born on Buddy Walk weekend so we’ve missed a couple due to her celebration. It’s a tough thing to have to decide which takes priority. I remember my first walk-I was terrified. I’d done well with the diagnosis but coming face to face with my son’s future in the faces of hundreds of kids with Down Syndrome just freaked me out. Then I got there and I realized about half way through the event that I was fine. I didn’t even see “Down Syndrome”. I saw hundreds of families celebrating and it just seemed right.
Great post…I wanted to say thanks for introducing me to Ingrid Michaelson…I can’t turn her off my playlist now.
Every time. How the heck do you do that? You speak the words that my heart is screaming. I just don’t know how to put those feelings into words. So a big whoppin’ THANKS to you, sister. My special baby (4yrs now & undiagnosed) doesn’t speak or walk or do much of anything for himself. The ups & downs are CRAZY. But I believe in sharing all this journey is doing for us and I’m so dang grateful that you do, TOO.
xoxox, Bree
Kelle– I love your blog so much. Most of all, I love your pictures because pictures say so, so much. My little guy with DS is only 6 weeks old and anytime I’m tired or confused or just jumbled up (ie- emotional)I visit your page for a pick me up that is better than prozac and somewhere near having a glass of good red wine. Thank you for sharing your life in the public- thank you for sharing your beautiful family and giving us a reason to smile and to celebrate the beauty in our own lives. Jen
I’ve loved all of your posts. Even if you were singing out of tune. Maybe I’m tone deaf because they all sounded beautiful to me. It never bothered me that you didn’t address the Down Syndrome side of your family. It’s nice to know life goes on and is still beautiful even when it’s not exactly how we planned it. It’s good for people to see and know that life goes on and is still amazing. More colorful but amazing.
My younger kids love the Buddy Walk but it did make me a little sad this year when my 4 year old asked me when we got to go to HIS Buddy Walk. So we thought about having a little neighborhood Buddy Walk to celebrate his 46 chromosomes. Have fun at yours!
That last picture of Nella? Makes me want to sink into a fluffy, soft comforter and take a nap, too.
Happy Friday to you!
You will stand amazed at how much Lainey fits in and loves that she is a part of Nella’s world at the Buddy Walk. She is the guardian of Nella’s soul and safety. I saw it in my own kids last OCtober when we attended our first “I”m not ready for this walk yet” thing. It was amazing. You will be beside yourself. Enjoy it.
We are all here (or the majority) attempting to share in your life for you to be you. The paragraph starting with ‘Here’s the thing…’ is it. That is what the momma’s who can honestly convey how they feel, feel! I just copied and pasted and sent it to my bf (with total credit to you!) b/c she is a struggling new mom. And Lainey will love her 46 as much as Nella will love her 47! FYI, thanks for addressing the glasses – I was wondering if she kept them on or not! My Kate who is just a couple weeks older than Nella will not keep anything on – shoes, socks, hats, etc.!
Oh, your words were just what I needed to hear. Tmw I’m attending a Cystic Fibrosis Education Day at our Children’s Hospital. The hospital asked me to sit on a panel of parents discussing the how-to’s of rasing a kid with CF. I’ve been worried about what to share – what would be helpful and what would be honest, but not too scary for newly diagnosed families. Your words resonanted with me – Accept that we all might do things differently but we are, all of us, governed by a deep and abiding love for our children. Thanks, Noan
“I am goverened first and foremost by love.” WOW! What a great statement and quote. What else do you need if that is your starting point?! Great post/pics as always.
Kelle,
Thank you so much for this blog post today. My husband and I have a son who is now considered special needs. We are still working on a diagnosis to what he has and it has been over a year. Being a momma to him is the most challenging and rewarding job I have ever had and I am learning so much. I am very impressed with how you express yourself in your blog, so honest and true. Please keep up the awesome job. Your posts are part of what helps me through the rough days. Take care.
Thank you for being so “real” as a parent of DS. We just found out Monday that they are highly suspicious our 3rd baby has DS and a heart defect. We were devastated Monday. As the days have went by we are at peace. We are still having a baby, our baby is still ours, and we can’t wait to meet him or her, DS or not. We’re ready for what God hands us & people like you sharing your beautiful pictures and words prepares me and inspires me to be the Mama I know I am. God Bless!
PS – my oldest also has glasses so I completely understand that battle you are facing. Where did you find those glasses? The style is fabulous on sweet Nella!
I think you should talk about Down syndrome more often..I love reading anything about it 🙂
Can’t wait to hear how great the Buddy Walk is, and of course see pictures.
i wanted to share this video with you..we watched it in my class and it’s so inspirational. you might have already seen it…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_-P4t2jR1g
Yay for loving your voice and finding freedom once again 🙂
Could you share your pumpkin bread recipe, please?
We are doing our Buddy Walk in Nov. I am scared to go but I am going to suck it up and do it.
We are doing our Buddy Walk in Nov. I am scared to go but I am going to suck it up and do it.
We are doing our Buddy Walk in Nov. I am scared to go but I am going to suck it up and do it.
I love your blog, your pics, your cherubs….all of it! I spent most of my adult life working with children with special needs and their families. I’m also a fosterparent for medically fragile and drug exposed newborns. One thing I know for sure is that first and foremost, they’re babies, children, not disabilities or differences. To love a child is the best thing in the world!!
Dixie in CA
I love your blog, your pics, your cherubs….all of it! I spent most of my adult life working with children with special needs and their families. I’m also a fosterparent for medically fragile and drug exposed newborns. One thing I know for sure is that first and foremost, they’re babies, children, not disabilities or differences. To love a child is the best thing in the world!!
Dixie in CA
I just love hanging out here. Funky music, a spunky gal speaking her heart and what’s on her mind and oh yeah, the adorable pictures!
It’s such a fun place to visit!
Happy Friday to you too Miss Kelle!
Magical, inspiring, uplifting…that’s the Buddy Walk. Nothing to be hesitant of. Celebrating Ds with all those other beautiful children, adults with Ds…their families, relatives, friends, therapists….WOW! It is truly a soul rejuvinating experience. I am so honored to be Kate’s mom and wouldn’t change a thing about her. We are so fortunate to have been introduced to this beautiful world of Down syndrome. Check out the link below to a video of our Buddy Walk that was this past September. Your family is going to have a fantastic experience at your Buddy Walk!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSqNQM-qwyw
Life is so full of perspective, always where you are and what you have in relation to so many parameters. Not rocket science thinking, but seeing Nella with glasses in hand it dawns on me: She can see!!!
Of course she can, there was never a question, how fantastic that her vision can be tweaked to perfection with glasses at such a young age.
And how humbling that for some families this would be the enviable dream come true; that their child could have the gift of sight, any ability to see and to know through sight. I could go on with the hope for some of sitting upright, smiling, grasping, babbling, walking, or simply eating orally, yes, there are so many things we take for granted or learn to appreciate as incredible gifts and miracles, including the magic chromosome.
And, you are right, we readers sit with our own perspective of dreams and hurts reading and learning as you share, giving thanks for what is, while we stumble with love as our leader-teacher.
As always, thanks for sharing.
My daughter has down syndrome too, and she is 5 months old now. We probably do things differently, or make different decisions, but there is no manual. I’ve been following you since she was born, and I think you’re doing great. I always welcome the thoughts and experiences from people who have been there and are going through the same thing. Even though we have amazing support and wonderful family and friends, none of our friends or family are in the same situation. So it feels a little lonely sometimes. It’s refeshing to relate with someone like you. So keep it coming, and I’ll keep following (and a TON of other people will too)
http://teal915.blogspot.com/
Happy Friday to all of you 🙂 Great post! Made my day
I have never commented on this blog but I so enjoy it:) We are on our 6th buddy walk this year (my david was 6 in july) and I still am totally and utterly clueless about this whole “thing” called parenting an angel with DS. I just had to share that as I read this post, I just kept nodding my head in agreement:) Keep loving and keep writing!!
Laura
http://www.sweetlifewithboys.blogspot.com
Keep up the good work, momma! You are an inspiration to us all. This is very obvious by the comments. You have made me a better mom just by showing me that true love conquers all. Don’t worry about what you say, we love it all!! Seriously! Have a great weekend with those beautiful girls of yours.
I have gone back to your very first post and have made it all the way up to March of 2009! You are an amazing mother and your daughters are going to have an amazing life because of it. Every parent has their challenges in parenthood and you handle it all with such grace. Love today’s post as well as all the ones I have read so far.
I needed this today. Yesterday was Holland in WWII. Did I mention I also inadvertently ran over a woodchuck/ raccoon thing?
Most days, I forget my special needs kid is special. Then you have a day where you get reminded, and it kind of blows. I just remind *myself* (lots of reminding!) that special means 95% *awesomely* special and 5% *wthhhhh* special.
xoxo
I just want to say that you have two beautiful little girls. They are so unique in their own special way.
I have been following your blog now since I found out about it and have enjoyed it very much. Your pictures are awesome and what I see when I look at Nella is her blue eyes. They are so gorgeous, so strikingly blue. Her eyes say it all. She will go far in this world and I am awed at her beauty inside and out. She is so lucky to have you and Brett and Lainey as her family and all your love to shower on her.
“Together, we are all fighting for the same thing. Special needs, typical needs, one kid, two kids, young kids, old kids, no kids. We are all on the same team.”
THAT is why I love you, your kids, and your blog…for acknowledging those of us with no kids that still feel the love and the hurt and the happiness. THANK YOU!!
I have been reading for a little while but I have yet to comment.. Just wanted to let you know that your blog is heartwarming. It’s real life and finding the real beauty in it. You remind me to stop and remember the small things and you lift me up without even knowing me.
I linked to you on my blog as well. I thin everyone needs a little bit of Kelle.
xo, Michelle
Golly, I’ve always been curious about how little babies keep their glasses on! My ten year old just got glasses and it took convincing for even him to keep them on!
Also, you are the swellest mom. Every time I read your posts I come away with a little inspiration and a reminder to enjoy it all more. Thanks for that!
YOU are INCREDIBLE. Thanks for your post…today and everyday. You have a massive following up here in Alberta. Much love to you all…xoxo
Oh how I love your wonderful blog and the way in which you weave the fabric of your life into these beautiful stories. I adore your girls whom I’ve never met, but somehow feel I know. I think Nella is especially beautiful and laugh and cry when I see her adorable little glasses. You are truly a blessing. I know I don’t have your particular trials, but I have trials everyday and you genuinely inspire me to see the good in life. Thank you….from the bottom of my heart…Thank you!
Just in case you wanted to see all of the fun we had at our Buddy Walk.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vnr2HcFLlZ0
Love you!
No need to ever change who you are and what you stand for.
I’m glad to know your voice, Kelle.
I’m thankful for the insight and growth that you, like so many others on this new journey, have stirred in me. My little guy turned 6 months this past Sunday. I can’t believe it! We are so very blessed and truly happy. I doubted that I would ever feel that again, but here we are! Just like you said.
oh my
how beautifully
and magically
u put together
ur words
that shows people
that we r so much more
than r differences
i belong to
the same club
where we all share
unlimited love
and compassion
for ALL
that’s what this life
is all about
it stretches r hearts
daily
and we ALWAYS have
room for more!
my life
is incredibly rich
with the people
who belong
i love this
“brand of mothers”
we all need some lows
it makes r highs
just that more special
it fuels me
love to u
and urs
and to all mammas
who share the happiness
that love brings!
xoxo rosa
I just love your blog…that is all I really have to say!
Thank you Kelle….for lotsa diff. things! 🙂
Kelle,
Your blog is like therapy for my soul. I come here weekly to be revitalized and to gain some perspective in this crazy thing we call life. But please do not feel pressure to be perfect or to say the perfect thing… what I like best is your humanity -the raw, real, truth. You are so incredibly positive that it’s nice to know your optimism is well balanced with normal fear, weakness and uncertainty. I think I enjoy these types of posts the most because it allows me to be able to relate to you…So in a nutshell, I like you, uncensored. 🙂
oh oh
and ps
does ur wise and wonderful papa
have a blog as well?
that would be perfect!
xoxo rosa
It’s funny. I always feel like I’m writing a whole email to you instead of a comment. But anyhoo..
Good for you for being ‘you’. I posted something similar a few months ago. It’s on one of my favorite posts. But basically, it said I was tired of trying to be “pr-friendly’. I am who I am. Somedays, I’m a good Christian. Somedays I swear. Sometimes I can’t get enough of my kids. And sometimes, I just want some peace and quiet. It’s who I am, either you like it or you don’t. And then I posted embarrassing pics of myself playing rockstar on the Wii just to prove I don’t give a crap what people think of me. I think writing will be that much easier for your talented self not worrying about who you’re gonna offend in your posts. You’re living life like the rest of us should and kudos to you for blessing us so much when you probably need us to bless you more than most of us need it.
LOVE the pic of Nella in her sweater and glasses. And the little people, crackin me up. I think I have something very similar on my fridge from my 4 yo.
Have a great weekend!
Jess
Kellie,
As mom of Brad, age 18, bearer of the extra chromosome……it only gets better and better! Thanks for speaking for all of us, and giving a beautiful spin to the amazing world of Down syndrome…janet
Love you girlie!! Are those sweater pants that Nella is wearing???? I am SOOOO addicted to making them, they are just too easy!! I raid our closets and my mom’s saying “serioulsy are you going to wear this??” My Mia must have 50 pairs!!
Thanks for keepin it real. I think the balance between being afraid to write something close to our hearts out publicly and yet finding a way to write it are what makes for beautiful, honest truths that can only enlighten and encourage. And with as many readers as you have, applause to you for honesty!
Your girls are beautiful little sweeties and I cannot imagine the struggles you must feel for both of them at times…..
Much love to your family!
Great post as always Kelly… love that the girls cook together, Lainey, head chef and Nella, sous chef… below is one of the best Pumpkin Bread recipes I’ve found on allrecipes.com ENJOY! It makes a lot and I shared it with many family members yesterday and the emails are blowing up my inbox!
Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread
Original Recipe Yield 3 – 7×3 inch loaf pans
Ingredients
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
4 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2/3 cup water
3 cups white sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour three 7×3 inch loaf pans.
In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water and sugar until well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger. Stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just blended. Pour into the prepared pans.
Bake for about 50 minutes in the preheated oven. Loaves are done when toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Yea for the Buddy walk–my college partnered with the local Buddy program and we held a Buddy formal dance every year–it was awesome! As always, Nella and the happy rest of your family is soo very beautiful! I had to write today because that baby that Lainey has–had me laughing sooo hard! When we were in Naples in August, my niece, whose baby doll we forgot back home in Georgia, was needing some doll cuddling time desperately, so we trekked down the street to the Walmart off of Immokalee and 41 and what do you know, but my twin sister and I just couldn’t leave that very same huge baby on the shelf–when we found it we thought it was absolutely the most hilarious thing as it dwarfed both our two-year olds and our infants and fit into 12-18 month clothing!! I never thought I would see that baby being toted by another loving little girl!! So funny!
Love your positivity! Happy Friday to you, too!
Kelle,
This is without a doubt my very favorite post of yours after Nella’s birth story. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful, inside and out. I so appreciate your words. You manage to say everything I cannot express as eloquently, but feel, towards my own special needs daughter. Bless you!
Krysta
What a beautiful post today. Nella’s glasses are too adorable and Lainey’s drawings are so much fun. Have a great time at the Buddy Walk. I can’t wait to read all about it!
Each of us have a different path to get into that “comfort zone” of Down syndrome. I hope with the popularity of your blog, you are still able to express your true honest emotions. I feel we may be holding you back, not wanting to hurt someone’s feelings. I don’t think you said anything wrong at all in this post. You are correct. Love is all you need to parent, even those with special extra chromosome. You are a great Mom. I hope you have someone close who does have a child with Down syndrome, that you are able to talk openly to and say the things that you are unable to post to the world. My new friends are the best friends I have ever known. In just two quick years, my life has changed so much, but little did I know it was exactly what I was looking for.
it’s funny – i came to your blog because our littles are days apart and both blessed with the extra chromosome…. and yet truly, your blog doesn’t have much to do with DS at all and i have loved every word of it so far…
my friends say i’m so strong because we just live our lives and they don’t know how i do it… but they have no idea how mushy i am on the inside about it… i felt the same as you when i heard about all the DS events when he was born… i thought ‘i will not be ready for any of that any time soon’ and yet “Zach’s Pack” will be 20+ walkers strong at the Atlanta Buddy Walk next weekend.
I am still sad, but he makes me so happy the sadness is just a tiny part – when mommies complain that their littles are getting into everything and they can’t turn their back on them for a second… i hurt a little because we sit in therapy every other week teaching him those things that come so naturally to others… but i wouldn’t trade my zachary lee for anything in the world – he is the most amazing boy i have ever known and i am so blessed to be able to watch/help him grow.
thank you for finding your voice again, i enjoy the alto very much!
Here I am on the other side of the world (in Sweden) crying in front of the computer… I keep coming back to read not only about an alternatively wired child (like mine, though mine don’t have DS but something else that makes them different), but because of the warmth and beauty of your blog, in general. Thanks!
Kelle – You are my hero! You are able to write in a way that I feel deep at my core! As a mom of two small little people….you are on it girl. Sometimes I know what I am doing and most times I do not…but I think that is part of this beautiful life. Your babies are so beautiful and seem so full of life and love. And as we sort through all of the pieces of this life…seperate and together…know that I truly believe our babies choose us to be there parents….they are our true teachers in life. Keep blogging I love reading!xoxooxoxo
The best part of this is you actually know your voice, there are many who do not, a while you feel you may have changed your tune for a bit, it has come right back because you know who you are. The same person as January 19th 2010.
I just love reading all about your precious family, you 46 & 47 chromosomes are just adorable! Bright Blessings!
“Am I scared? Yup, sometimes. Am I hopeful? Definitely. Am I aware of the reality of what we are facing? Absolutely.” I have two children, neither of whom are special needs. but this is pretty much how I feel. I think any good parent is scared and hopeful for their kids. Maybe not in the same way that you meant it here, but still… You’ve summed up perfectly how I feel about my children. 🙂
I love your realness! You write what comes to you…being real is what has drawn us all to you! Hugs!
I feel like giving you a hug after this. I know it must be a challenge to think you need to be positive all the time, especially when you know so many are looking to you for inspiration. I think it’s great you feel you can be honest about your hopes, fears, darkest secrets. Ditto what Jolie said!
love it!
Last night I was telling my husband… or, er, rather, he was dragging it out of me… how *alone* I feel in this mothering thing. I don’t have the added challenges of a DS child, but I oftentimes feel the weight of caring for my children ALL THE TIME. I wish I had your gift of looking on the bright side – on all the glittering facets – of whatever situation life throws you.
Nella’s glasses are just adorable! They sure do make her look cute! Although, she already was. : )
Love your comparison of Little Lainey’s people to all people – so perfect. And I was awonderin how long it would take delicious Nella to yank those glasses off! Not long, I see! Stinker. She’s a beauty, her pictures, and Lainey’s are pure beauty! Blessings to you all!
I’m a true believer that Life is definitely more about the journey than the destination. And I love how the littles change the course or even the destination, but they revive our senses along the journey. Everything smells, appears, sounds, and tastes different than before they touched our lives. But different is better. Just think about how good that Pumpkin Bread tastes this years in comparison to prior years. Great…now I have to make some bread for myself.
Thanks Kelle for sharing your sunshine. The rays stretch farther and deeper than you could ever imagine.
Enjoy the walk. And every ounce of your weekend.
-Jennifer from Annapolis
I am always amazed at your positive outlook on life. Wish I could display half of that. I don’t know if you have answered this before, but HOW do they know when a baby needs glasses and how on earth do they decide on the prescription.
Ann
Kelle- I’m so happy to hear you are finding your voice- because the chorus is thrilled to have you! It wouldn’t sound so rich without everyone singing would it? Have fun at the BW. I’m excited for you to fundraise. That’s a big step. It’s funny- I’m happy to donate and to participate in our BW, but I’ve been scared to do the fundraising and reach out and ask for time and money from others. I think it is absolutely without a doubt the thing to do- I’m just having a hard time getting my “notes’ out there loud and clear. For my elder daughter Zuzu, BW is just a good time festival with happy cheery people, music, bounce houses and popscycles. I’m sure your Lainey will have the same sort of fun. As a mother it’s emotional. We went and are actually going to a second nearby one this year- but I’m hoping to be brave enough to at least do the fundraising next year and maybe the team. Can’t wait to hear how it went!
Sometimes voices need a warm up, or a rest. Kelle I LOVE your alto voice. Your honest word pictures, out there, heartfelt, full of love voice. Rock on girl!
“These three remain… faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is LOVE!” 2 Corinthians. I don’t know you, but I am proud of you Kelle. It is VERY evident through your blog that your designer gened kitten is massively loved, and as a result of your massive momma love, little Nella is thriving, developing, and growing into one beautiful little girl! Lainey can only do the same, as God has a beautiful way of multiplying love to cover this one awesome life and all our people in it. Your family is on my prayer list daily. I know that beautiful things are yet to come. Congratulations on making it to the mountain top!
For our Buddy Walk in Phoenix, we walk in the Arizona State Homecoming Parade! Talk about being proud out loud!! We get so many cheers and shouts, it’s so heartwarming and awesome! It’s about awareness and we’re makin ’em aware – these are just kids, they just have a little extra! Hope your Walk is an awesome experience and can’t wait to read the blog on it!
This? Was beautiful. I have two daughters too, the first one was born with 46 measily, complete chromosomes, the secone was born missing part of her fifth chromosome (giving her 5p- syndrome.) I’ve often worried about how to remind my ‘normal’ child how special she is as her little sister is surrounded by therapists, doctors, etc. You wrote about my fears so eloquently.
Cheers! Yay! Love it. Beautiful, inspiring, creative, enriching. xo
Kelli-Thank you for your insight into parenting and the world. I love your blog. I tell my friends it is my happy place. I go there to find a little peace when most needed. I have a son who is only days older than Nella. When I see her face I see him and I feel whole again. I have a 4 year old son as well and I see how similar the relationships are. Motherhood is grand and so are our kids!
I’m glad you wrote this…
i hope this isnt taken the wrong way bc i dont mean it badly but sometimes it seems like you’re so “perfect” over there (not in a BAD way– i LOVE you!!) with your whole life and this whole thing figured out with your kids lookin’ all cute and no one has diarrhea or has puked on themselvesor is wearing hand me downs 4xtimes over and i think “Sh*t I must be doing something wrong bc Im not kelle hampton” bc youre whole life looks straight out of a glossy magazine. the stuff the media eats up… and they have 🙂
but when you post something like this you still have your amazing positivity we all love about you — but you dont seem like a glossy magazine anymore. you seem like a real person, just as scared (and mb even at times overwhelmed?) as the rest of us…and that makes “the rest of us” feel like mb we’re not so alone 🙂 or at least, i’ll just speak for myself 🙂
Thank you for always keepin’ it real while being true to who you are.enjoy the weekend!
This glossy magazine is slightly crumpled, wrinkled, catsup stained and torn…but there is still some good reading left.
my two year old just noticed that Nella has new glasses {I love how kids don’t always notice things right away} and she kept saying “baby Nella has gwasses, wike Daddy!” so my 4 year old told her “yeah… sometimes babies need glasses to help them see big people are nicer than they really are. Baby Nella’s glasses help her see the world is even prettier than we see it.”
I have no idea where she got that idea, but I LOVE it!
Baby Nella sure looks like she sees a much pretty world.
If I ever see Nella in person and ESPECIALLY with those glasses, I will eat her up! You have to enter the picture with the glasses and kissy lips in some kind of contest.
I think I commented on the wrong post…either way your girls are edible!
We are so excited to be a part of Atlanta’s Buddy Walk next weekend. My favorite part is the look on our little friends’ faces as they march and skip and run and slide across the finish line! What a special joy!
LOVE Lainey’s stick people – I get such a kick out of my son’s drawings!
I love your comment about the girls making harmonies together – what beautiful words, Kelle!
Sara 😉
I love your voice!!! Your voice is ringing all across the country, when souls like myself smile a big smile at a special child when before I may have hurt for the family and just turned the other way, when I read these other birth stories from bloggers who follow you and am touched in such a very profound way I don’t exactly know how to put it into words. Your voice makes moms feel a little more empowered, women a little less judged and babies a little more treasured. So proud of you as a fellow woman and mother. Happy Friday!
Delicious, Kelle!! Happy Friday, Girlfriend …
To the best friend I’ve never met–
I have been waiting for you to write a post like this. Thank you for delivering. Although my Ariana doesn’t have DS (she has CP), those feelings you expressed are very relatable and so true.
Elisa
http://www.jaketaylorfam.blogspot.com
Those people with the stick legs? Impressive. I just had parent-teacher conferences for my 3 year old today and his self-portrait consisted of red scribbles all over the page. Sigh. 😉
I loved what you said about that extra chromosome taking a back seat to other “pressing”:) things. That is totally what happens and that is totally what you fear WON’T happen when you get the DS diagnosis…that life will never even remotely be the same. But surprisingly it is.
Right now as my Grant is discovering the art of tantrums and picking on his little brother, I’m not thinking so much about DS, but about parenting and development in general. DS is not at the front of my mind when thinking of Halloween costumes or how to prevent him from sneaking into the fridge and playing with the eggs.
Life just takes over. DS is still on your mind, but it’s surprising how it ebbs and flows in utter importance.
The new header is beautiful! Love your voice and your powerful posts! There is wisdom in your inner voice…listen to it…trust it! :))
I agree. It is important to understand that we are here, on Earth, to help and support each other. By accepting, respecting and embracing the different colors of our own voices, we are able to appreciate the beauty in each of us. Every single one of us contributes to the world in our unique way.
Thank you so much for showing the beauty of children with the magical extra chromosome. Thank you so much for raising awareness for Down syndrome! Thank you so much for doing what you are meant to do! I am forever grateful for all the amazing work you do! The Buddy Walk is going to be a valuable experience that will enrich your life. All of you are going to do great. Everything is going to be OK~
“Discovery comes unexpectedly, as if by spontaneous generation. It can happen at any time, in any place, like a flash of lighting. What guides the mind at such times is not logic. It is instinct, or intuition. It is the need to see things clearly. It is an eagerness for life. In the interminable inner dialogue, and among the innumerable conjectures, comparisons, combinations and associations that are forever crossing the mind, sometimes a fiery trail cuts through the darkness. It lights up the surrounding landscape with a blinding, terrifying light which is brighter than a thousand suns.” ~François Jacob
I made pumpkin bread with my nearly 3 year old boy on Thursday. We (nearly 3 year old, me, and a nearly 9 month old) ate half a loaf before dinner. And now I’m making two more to give away because we couldn’t bare to share the first two loaves.
Can’t wait to read what you write.
whew. glad to hear your voice. i find myself doing that same thing sometime in much smaller proportions. feeling like i need to quiet the me to keep others happy. thing is? i only want to keep the people that care for the me around … so … there.
i want to frame one of her stick figures. it is the epitome of happiness. LOVE.
enjoy the buddy walk! wish we could join you in support of you and your beautiful family!
Love, love, love those glasses on Nella! Has to be the cutest little thing I’ve ever seen!! You are such a fabulous mom and you inspire me every single day to “enjoy the small things.” Thank you so, so much!
I have to say that after six years, there is still some hurt, I don’t think it every truly goes away. But she, your sweet little girl, will continue to amaze you every day. See my post:
http://parenteaufamily-ourlife.blogspot.com/2010/10/365277-almost-six.html
i was reading about what “experts” say about children’s drawings of people cuz jonah now draws people with heads and appendages but no bodies. it said that when they draw feet they are grounded and happy.
so according to the “experts” you’re doing something right! (as if you wondered,ha!) happy friday!
Good for you! And could we do something about the fact that your small women look bigger every time you post lately? Slow that down, would ya?
I love your blog post, as always. I thought I would throw in my 2 cents about glasses…been there, done that when my Aidan turned 1. He took off his first pair of glasses every 5 minutes for a solid year:) Then, we got new frames. Voila, problem solved. It sounds crazy, I know. I almost went crazy when I realized the solution was that sinmple. We got a pair of flexon frames which were extremely lightweight and we replaced the piece that wraps around the ear with one that just bent instead of going all the way around. I don’t know why he didn’t like the feel of those first frames, but it was seriously like magic. Perhaps Nella has a different reason, but I thought I would throw that out there. Oh, and being persistent really paid off. He has worn them from the age of 2 on up until the present (age 5) without any problem. They also make frames specifically for kids with Down syndrome (specs 4 us) but they don’t actually fit Aidan all that well yet. Good luck, I know how frustrating it can be.
As overused as the beautiful lyrics are…all you need is love. It is one of the most powerful lines to be brought to life and it drives me day in and out. love for family, significant others, friends, life, nature, all of it…gobbling up the love this season!
ps – Nella’s leggings are divine, i want some for myself 🙂
I really like it when you talk about Down Syndrome – I’d love to see/hear more about Nella’s therapy, and what happens when the therapist comes to the house – that’s so interesting!
It never felt odd to me that you didn’t talk all about Ds. Your blog is about beauty and life and your littles and it is not just about Nella and Ds. What spoke to me was that you love your kiddos and that voice is always there and when you share the stuff about Ds that you want…well, we enjoy that too, but I think that your love shines through as the most important thing and we love that and it reminds me to always look to love for my little FIRST and then all the extra stuff second:) Thank you for that constant reminder…to enjoy the small stuff…
Jana was born in June the Walk was Oct 25th. Jason begged me to do it. I was so scared. Scared of seeing my future scared of everything. I was not ready… I had no idea that when I left I would be the one that was changed. There was so many smiling children and adults walking, talking, laughing and hanging out with friends. It did give me hope.Lots of hope. I hope that you have a blast! Lots of hugs from Michigan. Oh and I love that you are so real.
Jana pushed a stroller today:) Big news in the Blanchard house:)
For what it’s worth, it’s always when you use your ‘alto,’ true-to-self, real, authentic voice that I feel the most inspired.
Let your light shine, Kelle. Let it shine always. It illuminates us all.
And Kelle, remember…
Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.
Yummmmm….pumpkin bread. Thanks for the inspiration.
We have been to Holland 2 times . When our 2nd son was born 23 years ago he had a severe heart defect. I was in mourning for the fisrt 2 weeks of his life. I could not help it. 20 years fast forward, his heart was fixed, BUT mine was repaired…
Ten years ago, our 9 year old son was diagnosed with cancer, 2 days before I was also diagnosed with cancer. He is in remission after 38 months of treatment, I am still fighting….The detours in life have made me and my family better, much better people. We go to the heart walk every year in Manhattan, Light the Night Walk for Leukemia, every year & Avon Walk EVERY YEAR. I said to Kevin, my husband “those walks are not for me”you know Kel, they ARE me.
Thank you for your honesty, wish I can repay you. Stick with close freinds and family….Treasure your mom & dad. My dad died last year 7 I so desperately miss his optimistic attitude, voice and unconditional love… God bless Ric..I’ve read your blog for over 1 1/2 years & finally decided to write. Hope you are glad to—-
enjoy your blessings
Drink it up! And learn as you go. That’s what we all do. With a whole lotta fun along the way!
your words amaze me, as usual.
Those are some cute kiddos! And feets, too!
Caryl
Hey Kel…
Keep on writing…you, my friend, are a gift! Hugs from beautiful Michigan…where the October sun shines and the smell of Fall is in the air.
jodi:)
Oh Kelle, those sweet little girls. They are so very beautiful and have so much depth in their eyes and their souls. Thank you for keeping it real, and please keep your voice. Yours. Kelle’s. It is so beautiful and so very much a part of this choir called life.
If there was any possible way on earth, I would so be at the Buddy Walk next weekend with my boys! For now, I’ll be there in spirit and eagerly await a post and pictures of it! 🙂
Yee Hah! and Amen! Stick with me on this comment I have a point.
I ‘ve had the chance to enjoy horse back riding many times in my life. When I was a kid I went to summer camp in our local mountains. One of the activities that was provided was horse back riding. Sad thing was though, those horses would follow eachother with no spirit. Horses should have spirit. You could ride them with your eyes closed, I know because I tried it, and still get back to the stable. When I ride a horse I want it to gallup and run. Heck…I want my ass to hurt when I get off that horse. Kelle you got your spirit/gallup back. My ass hurts after reading this post. Figuritively speaking of course but really, it was a good ride. : ) Let that wild horse in you run free. It’s beautiful.
Lisa in CA
Kelle . . I just love you. Thanks for everything you say and do to inspire me to be better, more honest and enjoy every moment. Ok you’ll think I’m crazy. . but I had this dream a few weeks back that i ran into you here in AZ and I was so embarrassed because I felt like a teenager at a rock concert in your presence. LOL!! I feel like you are truly a sister that I just won’t get to meet on this earth. . . but a sister you are to me and I am so proud!!
Oh I am in Love with your two beautiful girls too!!!! I LOVE reading your blog. Thanks for all your words. They are amazing.
Beautiful post, I too have a special needs child and now with expecting my 2nd and still no idea whats wrong with my 1st I keep going over in my head how to cope, who to talk to, it is a subject I mention on my blog occasionly but I always feel people are not interested. We in the UK do not have the same sort of group support as it seems you have in the states.
Thanks for sharing this post I am hoping it makes me one step closer to talking in depth about my son xx
Kara, if a shoulder could reach across the seas, I would offer mine. I looked through your blog until I found the photos of that precious little boy whose condition confounds wise doctors…his happy smile and resilient spirit shine through the photographs. We are happy you are part of the band here…blend that fabulous british accent into our song!
I’ll be attending our Buddy Walk in Spartanburg, SC on Oct. 23rd to support all my DS buddies locally 🙂 I’ll also think of you guys that day 🙂
Kelle,
Thanks for sharing where you are! I’m so glad you are doing the Buddy Walk. Ours is the 23rd. Do you have Best Buddies? We are fundraising for the TN office. We were really attracted to the relationship mission of Best Buddies and that it starts as early as middle school. Check it out when you have time. http://www.bestbuddies.org
Love your blog. Love your writing. Thanks for inspiring me.
Debra
Oh the stick people! My son draws them armless as well (on occasion they do have arms but not very often!) and I just love them….I have kept almost all of them that he has drawn because it is true, they are just so happy!
I pretty much always leave the same comment but I rarely know what else to say. Your writing is beautiful. Your pictures are beautiful. Thank you for sharing them.
I can’t wait to hear about the Buddy Walk! It’s going to be overwhelming and emotional and I can’t wait to see how you put it into words! You have a way…
Your post is so incredibly beautiful. That is really just exactly the way it is. Our little boy with that lucky 47th chromosome is now 4 years old. He makes our world blossom.
I thought you may like this. Have a great weekend!
Barter by Sara Teasdale
Life has loveliness to sell,
All beautiful and splendid things,
Blue waves whitened on a cliff,
Soaring fire that sways and sings,
And children’s faces looking up
Holding wonder like a cup.
Life has loveliness to sell,
Music like a curve of gold,
Scent of pine trees in the rain,
Eyes that love you, arms that hold,
And for your spirit’s still delight,
Holy thoughts that star the night.
Spend all you have for loveliness,
Buy it and never count the cost;
For one white singing hour of peace
Count many a year of strife well lost,
And for a breath of ecstasy
Give all you have been, or could be.
Oh my gosh. I can’t stop laughing- somehow I missed the caption under Lainey that says “that’s a doll on her lap. Not Nella.”
thanks for the inspiration, i hopped off the plane, rolled in at 2am this morning and got up this morning and made pumpkin bread… mmhhmm
Oh, KARA from the UK – Welcome! So good that you are part of this community, this family. And, JENN, i love that poem!!
Oh, Mrs. Hampton…I hadn’t checked your blog for about a week, and suddenly found myself stopping my homework just to see what beautiful things your life held in the past few days. Isn’t it strange that you can MISS someone you’ve never met? Silly of me.
The girls are growing so fast! Keep those pictures and your beautiful words coming.
Hi Kelle! I like coming to your blog and seeing pictures of your girls and to read about all the fun stuff that ya’ll do. I admit that I only found your blog because your little Nella (who is one day younger than my little princess with magic chromosomes) but I still come back to it and I enjoy it. I know that some people expect you to advocate more but you know what, it’s your blog and I think you are doing enough by showing how everyday life is. My boys adore their baby sister and yes, she has Down syndrome. It is in our lives, but we don’t live it everyday. Everyday for us is normal. It’s the stuff you talk about in your blog. It’s about not doing laundry and playing with kids instead. It about making cookies and enjoying them growing up. Keep doing what you’re doing.
First time commenting but have wanted to since I started following in February of this year. Mommy to two munchkins about your age (3 1/2 boy and 7 1/2 month girl). Thank you for sharing your words, they are like the non fiction books I used to devour but am now lucky to read a few pages a month. Your words bring a smile to my face and tears to my eyes all at the same time. Your joy of photography inspires my own passion to capture the most random moments in life and (glad to see I’m not the only one who photographs the food I eat).
So, what inspired me to write today is seeing Lainey’s chalk drawing. That has huge potential, t-shirts, ad campaigns to raise awareness (of what I’m not exactly sure, but just watched a documentary on the guys who have the “Life is good” products, you know, the ones with the catchy smily face). So, just thought I’d share.
I’m a Michigan girl born and bred so I’ll have a cup of hot cider, a donut from the pumpkin farm around the corner and jump in the leaves for you too!
Michelle
TO FEAS613 (Beth)- oh, YAY for YOU, going on that walk alone. You go, girl.. I always look for your comments.
I am now the 400th and million person to post and if you find me in all these comments, I want to say I’m so proud of you , and i dont even know you.I am the mean lady who emailed you questioning your role as our Down syndrome advocate that represents so many of us here. I loved your honesty and all I can do is respect that. You rock! keep advocating you be loved for it
Each one of us is always following someone and each one of us is always leading and guiding someone else. You are a leader to many Kelle. They way you live your life, the way you share your love, the way you mother, is inspiring, and definitely worth following. I admire you.
OK, I walked alone at the Buddy Walk here in southeast Michigan…I walked for Nella but quickly knew I was walking for every almond eyed angel I saw around me. I needed to do this before my walk with Nella next weekend. It was wonderful. I saw big teams and I saw tender teams of two–a mother and her child. I saw new babies on their first walk. I saw cool teens with their posse of friends with them. They all spoke volumes to me of love and acceptance and celebration and champions. It was well organized, held at The Palace. There were signs all along the course recognizing individuals. There were games and costumed characters. There was music. There were smiles, laughter and applause. And at the finish line, every individual with that extra chromosome was given a Buddy Walk medal and cheered like the champion they were. As a mom put the medal around her little girls neck, the little girl hollered loudly, “I won, mommma, I won!” Yes, she did. We all did. I look foward to next Saturday.
I don’t have any children, but I just wanted to tell you that I always, somehow, feel better about people and the world when I read your blog. Thank you 🙂
You make me feel like I can do it, even when I feel totally lost thanks!!!
kelle, honey…i just have to say…
“I am happy. And I am in love.”
…DO this. BE this.
you know, i hadn’t even noticed that you did or didn’t post about DS. truly. you’ve posted about your beautiful daughters and your wonderful family times. DS may be what drew me to your site to begin with…but its your stories about being a MOM and a photographer that bring me back time and again. i don’t care that your daughter(s) are blue, DS, blonde, cute, tall, etc. i just care that you’re REAL and that i can relate.
thank YOU for writing. thank you for being REAL.
stephanie
PS: not sure if you can get my email/blog from here…but i’d love to connect sometime. (i’m a midwest girl too! 😉 )
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Good for you! If you start censoring yourself for the benefit of others you lose yourself. Don’t be afraid. Love rules.
You have 2 healthy, beautiful girls, wonderful friends and amazing family. You also have lots of people who get so much out of your words. (I am one of them!) You must be doing something right. 🙂 Keep it up.
Kim
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Linda – I hadn’t seen you commenting in awhile! Hope everything is okay with our Blog Momma!! I always look for your comments too!
I read Kelle’s post about the Buddy Walk and thought I would check if there were any in the area. Sure enough there was one a few days away. So that Sunday I got dressed and got in the car thinking I would just go drive by and see what was happening. When I got there I said I would just park and check it out. I parked across the street (as there is not much parking in the lot of The Sycamore Drive-In resturaunt) and the moment I stepped foot in the parking lot it was as if the rest of the world melted away – as though everyone there was let in on a secret. Love, laughter and happiness permeated the air of the small group of supporters. Everyone was friendly to me putting forth an effort to say hello, to tell a little of their story to me. Everyone asked of my connection to the Buddy Walk, for my reason of participating and my means of finding out. I told everyone about this blog as my means of finding out and Ms. Nella was my reason for walking. And people hugged me – strangers embraced me as though I were a long lost friend. We walked the main strip of Bethel – Greenwood Avenue, which is lined with little Mom & Pop stores, resturaunts and the occasional chain gas station or pharmacy, everyone was talking all the while as I sort of fell behind and took it all in – wondering what it would be like to actually BELONG to this community. We walked as though we were wandering throughout the town. We doubled back completing the walk. And though I didn’t think it was possible more smiles and more love filled the bubble that separated us from the buzz of a Sunday afternoon in the center of town. It was an experience I will not forget anytime soon.
Thank you Kelle and Poppa (Rik) for opening my eyes to what is out there that I never knew about! Kelle – I would love to meet up in Naples once I get down there! Closing up a life is pretty time consuming. It is also extremely hard to decide when to leave when there are so many events planned with friends and family and I want to participate in them all almost as much as I want to live in Florida. I’m glad I could participate and donate to the Buddy Walk 🙂
I went through the same thing on my blog, writing about adoption. Everyone has their opinion on how we parent. For a while I didn’t know how to say what I was thinking, for fear it would be taken the wrong way, or criticized. I eventually got over it and am less afraid of what the “outside” thinks. I’m glad you’re getting over it as well, because it is really our true voices that make a difference – that share something unique and allow us to connect beyond the ordinary.
Also, I LOVE Nella’s rainbow leggings. They are the kind of thing I would buy, even with no baby girl to put them on, because they are just so yummy. Where are they from?
FEAS613 (Beth) – Hey you. I am doing ok now, thanks for asking. I loved reading about your Walk! Yay for you, moving to naples, right? What an adventure!
Reading your blog is my Sunday morning escape: before my littles awake, I escape to the dining room table, with my coffee, and savor your story. Thank you for the beauty in your words, Kelle. Happy Fall!!
You are amazing!
Thanks Kelle! Don’t ever change your beautiful alto voice. We are all scared to raise our children. I don’t know who I am more afraid to raise…. my typical kids or Stefi, the chromosomally enhanced diva extraordinare. You are my thoughts and unspoken words. As I sit here holding my lovely flu-shot sickened toddler, I think of so many things and I know I am not alone. But, today will be a better day because I just read all of the posts from my team. Thanks for being such a great coach. I hope you and your girlies had a fabulous buddy walk! Ours is next weekend! XOXO
I love Nella! She seems like she has such a great personality! Post more Videos of her!!!
This is my first time commenting. I had a baby 6 weeks ago and we found out at birth he has DS. Your birth story made me feel so much better, to know another Mom felt the exact same way I did. And this entry gives me so much hope that it will get better and better. Thank you!
You are here to change the world. I will remind you of this little-huge fact constantly.
Kelle – As soon as I saw the doll on Lainey’s lap, I knew it!!! My Addy has the very same doll – which really is a HUGE baby doll! But somehow our’s is named “Baby Sally” and she goes everywhere with us! 🙂
Your post today makes complete sense. So happy you are on top of that mountain! It’s right where you should be. And it gives you the strength and knowledge, etc. to climb the mountains that’ll surely be there in the future!!
I can now safely admit that I don’t come to your site often. And here’s why: I have a son who is 9 months old who has Down syndrome. (We knew from about 24 weeks gestation.) And he can’t do most of the things that Nella can do. And I can’t read your blog without thinking “WHAT does this lady KNOW that I do NOT?! What is she doing with Nella that I’m not doing with Dylan?! WHY is her child so far ahead of my child?”
My favorite line of your blog thus far… “I don’t know what the hell I’m doing.” Because… me neither. But I do love my child (both of my kids) more than anything on this planet. And? Dylan’ll get there too… I’ll keep insisting. He’ll keep resisting. And life will go on.
I think I can come to your blog more often now. 🙂
OH, what a beautiful baby!
The best voice is an honest one. Bravo.
Enjoy the moments. I think I am about the oldest DS mommy around. One thing I have found is that these little precious souls that dance into our lives, fulfill their mission, which in my opinion is bring joy, light and love to the world, then they are off.
They usually aren’t with us for too long. They are too sweet and pure for this world. Enjoy every moment your own way.
Good luck on your buddy walk! It was a little overwhelming for us but we have plans to go again next year =)
I read that you have a nanny.
Is this true…and why wouldn’t you tell your readers that? If you do, I feel it is sad that you wouldn’t.
I have chill bumps. Feeling scared is normal for everyone. You are brave and can take on anything that comes your way.
funny you should talk about the buddy walk because I’m wearing my buddy walk shirt as I read this post! I’m a special education major attending school in Dayton, Ohio and am in love with your blog!It not only makes me so excited for the children that I will be getting to work with but also of my nieces and nephew and how fun they are at these ages!
I have to tell you the buddy walk i went to a couple weeks ago was so amazing and yet so simple. I spent most of my time there dancing under a pavilion with people of all ages and it was so much fun! There was so much love felt there from each and every person there, truely inspiring!
I cant wait to read how your buddy walk went and continue to read about your beautiful children and oh so fun life!!
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This is the Daddy who left you a comment about how inspired I was after reading Nella’s birth story. Just checking in after many months of being busy and watching our own little girl grow. My wife is a religious reader of your blog and keeps me updated on Nella’s adventures. She has really grown into a little lady with a shining smile. Her glasses give her an intellectual look beyond her years (or year)! Truly adorable. Your daughter continues to inspire me to be the best Daddy I can be and reminds me about enjoying the small things. It can sometimes be so easy to forget…Thanks for writing!
To: The blogger behind the words
I really think your post is an unfair judgment. Being a parent can be a stressful job. Being the parent of a special needs child makes that stress exponential.
I do not know whether or not she has nanny. If she does, I say good for her! I do not feel cheated or mislead, because I do not come to this blog for validation on my parenting or to compare the milestones of my two special needs kiddos. That would be unfair to me and to them. I come here because this community that is forming is one that is generally supportive and happy.
I hope that you can find that when you come here as well.
-Jenn
Kelle–Glad you decided to keep beltin’ it out! Not sure if someone said something negative or what, but your followers gain so much from your voice. Think of all the people that will participate in or contribute to a Buddy Walk in honor of Nella…because of your voice…we wouldn’t know her any other way. And that’s only ONE thing that has come from your alto voice…I know the good things are too numerous to count.
How I wish our ears and eyes only heard and read positive things from others. Like, maybe the negative ones could disappear into thin air (wishful thinking)!
Y’all have fun at the Buddy Walk. May you meet delicious new people to fuel your hearts with smiles and happiness.
omg… that baby in those tiny, completely adorable glasses!!!!! i could eat her up! as a mother and a teacher… thank you for your courage and thoughtful words!!! your blogs put great things into the universe!! your kharma is off the charts!! 🙂
I am aunt to a little girl with Down syndrome; sister to her mother. I was on the other end of the phone when my sister thought her baby was suffering from Trisomy 18 and . . . well, it wouldn’t have been good. I celebrated with her when the news came back that her daughter had Down syndrome rather than the dreaded Trisomy 18.
My niece has been with us for eight years. I’ve watched my sister and her family go through the things you’re going through. I’ve walked in Buddy Walks. I’ve watched my sister become an incredible champion for her daughter and advocate for children like her. I’ve witnessed an amazing strength and focus and love envelope their entire family. I know how blessed they — and we — feel to have Alyse in our lives.
Lucky you.
I have had my own personal criticism this week coming from all sides. And yes, it is tiring and all I want to do is just hide. I needed your words tonight. I know that my mountain is very big and it looks very scary but i have to find a way to make it to the top. Here goes nothing…
Kelle,
I admire you and your family’s bravery. Go where you feel you are ready to try to tread without fear, nice and best of luck!
I too tried to attend the local Buddy Walks but have not made it yet. I have attended a few other local decently attended events–the first when my son was about nine months. Driving home, my six year old daughter was confused and wondering why we didn’t SHOW her the other kids with DS.
The event was the opening of Club 21 in Pasedena, a new AMAZING resource mostly supporting educational endeavors but pretty much ANYTHING DS and especially with learning and reading focus.
The event had LOTS of HUGE pictures of many cuties with DS (some in glasses with an extra support for that petite nose that I share too!), besides the many people walking around the event these pictures she did not see as different in any way proves to me that these distinguishing features are a result of social conditioning, my daughter is EXTREMELY observant and perceptive.
I am so excited that you AND YOUR FAMILY TOO posted quickly and reassuringly to your young budding author friend and I hope you connect with her and maybe help her settle in with your older children’s extended group if it is a good fit! The bits and pieces I have seen in comments your husband (and now with your additional help!) has shaped some pretty amazing minds and looks like they hang with a phenomenal group of friends!
I appreciate you and your families efforts to show all of our emotions and uncertainty in a steadfast unconditional and unwavering show of support for everyone from all walks of life. Your fan-base is varied and I too relate to such a wider range of life’s highs and lows and DECISIONS and UNCERTAINTY. It is overwhelming but good and mind-blowing.
I think that the Buddy Walks in FL in particular have the unique ABILITY to spread the awareness and inclusion message in light of the community they are based. My parents are in a nearby city and I hope they attend the walk next week or in the near future. Being far away from our extended family places an extra tricky step in the tough road of explaining ourselves and conveying understanding.
Maybe an Island of Capri walk for fun someday… smile OR a Buddy SAIL…
I see a future Island of Capri STROLL and perhaps a Buddy SAIL, FL style.
Thanks for your post and your replies to comments to you and YOUR FAMILY. Hoping you always find some time to blog and support gratitude and peace in this world.
FL is uniquely positioned to reach the GRANDPARENTS of people with DS, I hope to send mine your way soon–maybe even next weekend.
Good luck getting the mission accomplised and with the usual sense of your own STYLE and FLAIR and I must add that my six year old was a bit WILD EYED driving home from after our first local event (the Club 21 opening in Pasedna–www.clubtwentyone.org, learning and READING is their primary focus but overall yet another amazing resource like my other fav the new book “I’m Down with You” that my social SON with DS just KISSES EVERY DAY).
My very keen observer child who finds mistakes in books like words that dont match the color in the picture wondered WHY WE DIDNT SHOW HER who the people with DS were.
Yes, huge ten foot wall posters of our cuties (some wearing glasses with an extra nose piece to help better fit that tiny or thin bridge of their nose that I also have myself) were hanging in the main gymnasium in which the event was held.
Club 21 is planning a grandparents brunch–maybe your amazing family has ideas to share with local Naples folks along those lines?
To the blogger behind the words…I am laughing so hard it is difficult to type. If Kelle, my daughter, has a nanny than I must have a personal velet who lays out my clothes every morning…yes, and a chauffer who drives me places. I am not sure where you got your information, but if you find the nanny, please send her over. Kelle IS the nanny, the housekeeper, the cook, the tutor, the stylist, the nurse, the physical therapist aide…I mean no offense, but I have always found I will be less embarassed if I check information before making assertions. And also, I have always loved the term au pair so much more…if she had one, that is what she would call it. I am still laughing and thank you for my morning chuckle.
..and seriously, if she DID have a nanny…why would she owe anyone an explanation? I hope nobody starts asking these type of questions on my little bloggy! It makes ME sad that people scrutinize this way:(
I just want to commend you on such thoughtful words and photos. My 10 month old son also has an extra chromosome and I find it so encouraging to read blogs such as this. I feel that we were chosen to parent such special kiddos and we will know a love beyond what most people ever experience. You have such an amazing platform and so many followers that you can make a huge impact in the DS community. All of your thoughts and feeling are completely valid and I love hearing about the real struggles and joys of raising a special kid. Keep it up!!
As I read the first couple of sentences, I gasped — walking on egg shells??? No! Don’t do it!! Stomp, Stomp, Stomp — that’s why you have so many followers, so real, so honest. That’s what I love! But as I continued reading on, my heart felt light once again and realized you were going to continue to do just that. I’m inspired by you. I know you’ve heard that a million times (as you should). But I just wanted to say one more time. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, your life, your emotions and your outlook on it all — please keep it coming. Now, I must read your latest post! xoxo
And I love Lainey’s happy “community” there!! and I LOVE her big smile and Nella — oh, I just don’t have the words. Nella’s eyes, her smile — that soul, it just doesn’t something fierce to my heart! Continued love & many blessings to you all!! xoxo
I didn’t get a chance to comment when you first posted this — but I am soooo glad you are going to write about your experiences with Down syndrome again. That is what drew me to your blog. Your honest telling of your story — the joys, heartaches and new ways of seeing.
And this resonated with me: “Parenting a special needs child is complicated. No one knows what the hell they are doing and somewhere, deep inside many of us, there is still hurt. We look to others to see how they do it and when we see something different, sometimes we shrivel. Or question ourselves. Maybe even criticize.”
And I LOVE Lainey’s happy stick people — as you pointed out, they don’t have arms, but they’re radiant nevertheless. I think we all long to be filled up with joy and contentment the way they are.
I’m so glad your voice is coming through loud and clear.
I’ve been wanting to comment just to let you know how much I’ve enjoyed your blog. Found it while expecting my last son, at that time we knew we had a good chance of a baby with DS. Sure enough, our little Luke was born with an extra chromosome. I couldn’t be any more in love with him, and he fits our little family just perfect. He’s got two great big brothers (3 and 5 years). I enjoyed this post, its hard to put into words sometimes the unique balance of this new life. The incredible love with the unknowns.Thanks for the peek into your lives and sharing yourself with us.
I read your blog post about the birth of Nella quite awhile ago and then lost your blog address. I have been searching for it over and over again for months. I found it today and once again, read your story. Cried and held my belly close. No matter what comes from this next birth, I will be blessed.
Thank you for writing.
My love,
R