Lainey says “Kimmif” for “Christmas,” and I stifle laughter every time she says it. Like “Hey Mama, maybe we can color Nana Kate a picture for Kimmif” or “Hey, can we have bacon for breakfast on Kimmif?”
Well, to clarify, for Kimmif, we are exploring the art of nothing. As in every time my phone beeps, I click it off and ignore it. And, as much as this has always been my place to “feed the good wolf” and get away, the computer’s not the place I want to be right now. There’s Candyland and cookie dough and another Lifetime movie about a single mother who falls in love with a smoldering mountain man on Christmas Eve and lives happily ever after.
For the first time ever, we are “just us” on Christmas day. No grandmas or grandpas or other speck of extended gene pool. Just us, and we’re rockin’ it. (although, for the record, if any family happens to walk in our door on Christmas Eve to surprise us, I’d die a million deaths and be forever grateful…just sayin’.)
We soaked up Brett’s mama and stepdad before they left for up north.
Today, we headed out to see Santa. Lainey was a little iffy on the whole seeing-him-in-person thing, and we swore she’d cave and lose it when it came to sitting on his lap. In fact, I would have bet money on the fact that she’d be in the stroller crying and hiding her face while Nella swooned and charmed him, but, alas, my big girl was cool and the little one lost it.
Thank you, Peyton, for Lainey’s sparkle shirt!
And this whole Santa picture experience does nothing but entertain the grown-ups because the kids are all frozen and posed, and the interaction between Santa and child is completely awkward and a bit silent, but behind this whole scene? Why, there’s Brett and I, snapping pictures and laughing our asses off because the weirdness and stillness is completely hilarious and memorable.
Why this is so funny, I’m not sure. But hey…we have cool pictures for the scrapbook.
There’s a lot I want to say. There’s a whole lot of high-on-Christmas stuff flying’ around my brain these days, and I could gush disgustingly right now on just how much I love these days. But, you get it, right?
My sister says Blitzen hates carrots and that he spits them out in the driveway on Christmas Eve. She says her kids loved this little story bit. So, I told Lainey this whole thing, and she’s thrilled by the story line…can’t quit talking about how we’ll leave carrots for Donner and Vixen, but that she knows Blitzen’s just going to spit them out. That alone has my brain spinning, and it’s dominoes here after. It reminds me of the power I possess. I am the matriarch of our family traditions, and Dammit, they’re gonna be good.
We call this the “Love Touch.” It happens several times a day. She reaches out and touches our faces, and when it happens, time stands still.
So, there.
It’s family time right now.
Events are slow and purposeful, and I am happy to have good reason to breathe it all in.
Wherever you are, whoever you are with, Merry Christmas.
Or, as Lainey would say…Merry Kimmif.
Our Christmas card this year…
Reading between the lines, I intend this post to scream one thing: Grateful, grateful, grateful.
For this crazy, soul-stretching year.
Little details of these blessed holiday days to come.
In the meantime, make your own memorable.
Much love to every home these words land.
Merry Kimmif.
Nicole says
Merry Christmas Merry Christmas!!! (Shameless attempt at first comment!! Going back to read π xoxo
Our Crazily-Random Life says
Merry Kimmif to your family! Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful family with us. I love reason your blog & it inspires me everyday. Much love to your little girls & I hope you have a great next few days!
Heidi says
Love the Christmas cards!
Your post came on a day when we host our favorite Christmas party, and you might like to do one sometime. We call it a Reindeer party. We have it sometime before the 24th – preferably the 22nd or 23rd. Because the reindeer will be preparing for their big journey, we eat a high carbohydrate dinner in honor of them. We make reindeer food to sprinkle on the ground on Christmas eve, and we decorate our cutout cookies to leave for Santa. Usually Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer plays on the tv in the background, but this year we forgot. Anyway, that’s our super fun tradition, and Gabe loves it!
I love that Nella still does the pouty lip! Adorable!
Merry Christmas!
A Wedding Story says
These pictures are priceless. Merry Christmas!
Vicki says
Love, love, love your spirit of Christmas π I always smile ’til it hurts when I read your posts. And this one was no exception. Beautiful family…beautiful traditions. Merry Christmas to you all!
Jen says
Merry Kimmif back to you as well.
The spec pics crack me up!
I agree the art of Christmas nothingness is the best. I am looking forward to relaxing, snuggling, and just “be”ing in the moment this year.
Jen
Lovingpeanut.blogspot.com
Casey says
Merry Christmas Hamptons!!!!
Beautiful Grace says
Ok Nella on Santa’s lap with the lip is so darn cute.
Merry Christmas to you. Thank you for sharing your world with us. Your family looks like rawk stars!
Jen says
Merry Christmas, Kelle. I hope you and your family enjoy the marrow out of it. Take care, hold the babies close. Enjoy the wonder and magic you see in their eyes!
Miss Max says
Beautiful post! Made me cry! We had a scare with my daughter this past week – I thought we were going to leave the hospital childless, but all was ok. This post lifted me up! Thank you, I’m in love with your girls – Soooo presh!
Merry Kimmif to you and your fam! π
Jess says
Holy Moly with the glasses!! I’m crackin up. I can’t wait to see the post-Christmas post. Your family is freakin awesome and I hope you have the best Christmas yet!
Nicole says
Ahhh…Christmas. The awkward Santa pics are fabulous…so can’t wait to take some of my own!! I have to admit..was shocked to see Nella bean pouting on his lap, lol!! And guess what? There’s definetley somethin’ in there, we heard the heartbeat last week (I think my own stopped) and it was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever heard. It just solidifies my annual decision to save most of my vacay days to take half of December off, and now I can’t wait to start my own “mama traditions.” Kimmif is so stinkin’ delicious.
Sherry F says
Merry Christmas, Kelle! May you and your precious family enjoy your day together! We are going to be “just us” after all this year too, but I know it will be wonderful full of special moments. Thanks for posting the fabulous pictures of all of you! Love the glasses – priceless!
Jenny says
Oh Merry Christmas to you and your family. I too get to celebrate our first family Christmas with our little, and I can’t imagine what it would like without him. Here is to lots of joy and magic for you entire family!
Hugs from Iowa,
-Jenny
texasmacks says
I just love the way little ones say things wrong and it will make me cry when my little one says Christmas correctly from his ever adorable saying of Kritmus.
The photo of the girls with Santa is beyond perfect. The lighting, the sentimentality of it all..absolute perfection.
What a beautiful family and story have to tell and let me tell ya, my friend…do you ever tell it well.
Merry Kimmif!
Maria says
Merry Christmas Kelle, Brett, Brandyn, Austyn, Lainey, Nella, Sophie, Latte, Poppa, Gary & all the rest of your wonderful family. Wishing you all a warm, blessed holiday. Thank you for sharing your life with us & inspiring all of us to cherish the small things. OMG~that pouty pic of Nella with Santa is priceless.
Your photos are beautiful, as usual. Looking forward to much more beauty in 2011.
Love,
Maria
laurieg says
Girl your creativity has no limits! When I got to the bottom of this post and saw those family photos I damn near fell off my chair! Love the glasses and love how none of your outfits match eacother (you know, white shirt and jeans style). that just might be the awesome-est (its a word) family portrait ever!
MERRY KIMMITH!!!!!!
Much love to your family as you do this Christmas thing solo this year π Oh and sending a little northern christmas magic vibe your way π
S says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family – thank you for sharing your lives with us!
Roksalanna says
Dear Kelle, Brett, Lainey, Nella, Austyn, Brandyn and Poppa Rik, Latte and Sophie,
Wishing you all a very Joyful Christmas!
Thanks for your lovely blog Kelle.
Hope Nella has a wonderful first Christmas season.
Also Happy Holidays to all my fellow readers.
xxxooo
haveFaith says
Merry Kimmif to you, too!
I feel the same way, I’m not at all on the computer like I usually am right now and that’s because I’ve been so busy! Busy with family and work and going out! This time of year is beautiful, and we shouldn’t waste it by sitting behind a screen, we should spend it with family and friends.
Your family is gorgeous, kelle. The boys, and your girls, they’re beautiful children. It amazes me sometimes how much I’ve changed because I swear from the time I realized birth was this painful thing I was the kid who was like “YUP. NO KIDS. ADOPTION ALL THE WAY.” and then I realized that it’s silly to let something as manageable and conquerable as PAIN to stop me from raising children with my eyes, or my hair, or my traits; that have my partners genes mixed with mine. Now I am on Team Family, and when my time comes to have my family, I know that I am going to try my hardest to give them the things I had, and wanted, growing up and more.
I see that in your posts, too. you make it so magical for your children and I think that’s why I love reading your blog. There are so many people who are willing to point out the bad in this world because it is abundant, but it takes a unique person to be aware of that negativity and just shove it aside so that others can see that positivity isn’t far behind, and that if you go find it, it is grand.
So this christmas I am finding my positivity, and despite any troubles I may be having or my family is having, I am going to make this christmas magical. I hope your family has the same! A very magical kimmif to you Hamptons!
Laura says
LOVE those family photos π Merry Christmas to you all!
KWQR says
A big Merry Kimmif right back at you! This is our first Christmas “just us” at home… no suitcases or airplanes or crazy runs through terminals lugging boneless toddlers… am so excited to do nothing I just might burst. Figuring out our own traditions, borrowing the ones we love from our own families, making up some as we go… being a grown up truly rocks sometimes.
Am beyond grateful to have found you. Your beauty & grace & humor makes this world a much brighter place. Thank you for sharing yourself & your family with us all.
xo
Kate
Paytonsmommy says
Merry Christmas to you and your family too. Enjoy just being a family and make some great memories. We will be doing the same starting tomorrow. We are going to live it up and definitely going to Rock it!
Love the Santa pictures. My daughter is scared of him – she loves him and talks about him all the time but when it come to the seeing him in person she is scared. Great memories at least for us.
Love the reindeer story – my daughter just saw some feed them apple and fed Curly the camel a marshmallow – so much and she tells everyone what each one eats – like she is the expert now.
Enjoy your Christmas. I hope it is great.
Nettie says
Merry Christmas to you and your family.. Enjoy every minute…
Katy says
One word to describe this post: ADORABLE!
To Lainey saying Merry Kimmif
to Nellas pouty face while on santas lap
to the amount of hair Nella has
and to the glasses pics of the family and even the dogs. Love it!
Merry Christmas or Kimmif π
Katy
FEAS613 says
Absolutely amazing pictures — every single one of them!! Oh, the pout on Nella’s face in the first picture is so heart-wrenching – yet simultaneously effin hysterical!! And the glasses pictures are amazing! Brandyn and Austyn have chagned soo much. I don’t think I’ve seen a picture of them since camping – and in that short time the changes are astonishing…
Well, it’s back to hot gluing and ugly sweater decorationg! ($100 cash prize for the employee with the tackiest sweater tomorrow… felt trees, ribbons, garland, ornaments AND a battery pack… I’m really bringin it tomorrow!)
Merry Kimmif, Hampton & Scryder families!! I’m grateful to have you ‘in my life’!!
~Beth
Rojas Family says
There are too many pics in this post I love to pic out just one. The girls are just dolls. I hope you have a truly Merry Christmas!
Oh and I can’t blame you for not wanting to be at the computer. ;o)
Jenny says
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Nicole says
I know, I’m terrible! I wanted to wait until “heartbeat day” to post again and gush over how much I love life right now π Planned on writing my one cup o’ coffee tomorrow morning. G’night!!
Bethany says
LOL! Is that your Christmas card, or just a blog concoction? Because it is freakin perfection … hilarious! Love it. π Merry Christmas Hampton fam!
Jamie Willow says
Merry Kimmif to you as well π
ayshamartin says
Absolutely love your Christmas card! Such a beautiful family, inside and out. Merry Christmas Hamptons!
bfinn1020 says
A friend from FL had recommended your blog to me last January. I was immediately enthralled by your writing and Nella’s story, but more so by your encouragement to savor the moments. I have 3 kids, now 5, 6, & 7- and we had moved to a town that i felt couldn’t hold a candle to my sweet home Chicago. But, i’d check in, every day- and follow your story- and very quickly, started noticing my own “gems among the cheerios”. I bought my first “big girl” camera and started snapping away. I’ve commented a couple times, anonymously- just a shout out of support when a fellow reader bashed your positivity, or a quick thanks for photo tips- but i never took the time to thank you for the source of peace and beauty that “Enjoying the Small Things” has become for me. I check it every day and let the music play because i enjoy it. My kids ask me who Lainey and Nella are and if they’re related to us. i tell them, “no, no… they belong to this chick who’s blog i love.” I’ve showed your blog to my parents and friends. I have a girlfriend who texts me one liners like, “feed the good wolf” or “read kelle today!!.”
So, imagine my surprise when i am at the grocery store tonight, and i immediately recognize a this lovely woman shopping the same aisle. She asked me how we knew each other and i told her i recognized her as Brett’s mother from Kelle’s blog!! Unbelievable! You have a small following here on the Rock among some of my friends and we never knew there was any sort of Rockford connection. ‘love the serendipity. ‘love the blog. thanks for showing all of us babes who happen to be mommas how to relish every hot cocoa stained moment of it. -Bridget Finn
Tiffany says
I don’t know who the boys (besides your husband) are in your card. I feel like I should.
I love the card and the photos by the way:) how fun, how creative, how festive, how inclusive, love it!
Erika says
merry christmas! it’s just us this year, too- first year for us. should be cozy and we are doing a whole lot of nothing, too.
your santa pics are great- they did GREAT! my baby (age 18 months) cries everytime she sees santa. oh well. at least her big sis likes him! π
love your blog, kelle. you have no idea how much joy your blog brings to me- you are truly an inspiration! mwaaaah!
much love from the sunny west coast,
erika
theurthmama.com
skinnytuesday.com
CSaM says
Oh those Christmas cards are bloody brilliant!!! That first Santa pic with Nella’s little chin quivering… PRICELESS!!!
Merry Christmas Hampton family. See you in 2011
Shana says
Okay first of all ~ Merry Christmas! I know Nella’s first Christmas will be especially sweet.
Second – Bridget Finn’s comment just gave me goosebumps all the way up my arms.
Third – I love Lainey’s side-eyes in the first pic with Santa (my daughter had them last year and that pic still makes me smile BIG)…and you gotta do it – it’s a right of some kind of Christmas passage…
Rosellini says
Merry Kimmif to the Hamptons! Love your Christmas card – it definitely rocks – just like you! π
Kelle says
bfinn1020…my mother in law told my husband all about it tonight. Ha. So I smiled reading your comment. Thank you so much for your kind words. My man is a true Rockford boy…I’ve been there, and I know there are good people and good places. (my mother-in-law just one of them!)
Merry Christmas!
heather says
Was it really just a week ago that I had that sweet girl in my arms because she looks so much older in this post. Holy cow! Look at all of that cute hair on her sweet little head!
The second thing I thought after I opened your Christmas card (of course, the first thought was how much I absolutely loved your card and pictures) was that I hoped you would post it on your blog because it was way too cute to not share with the world.
Wishing you and your family a very merry Kimmiff from the Seal family!
xoxo
Emilie says
I am happy to be part of your village b/c I am a true believer in that mantra. Poor Nella with Mr. Santa Claus-that little lip. It is so funny for us adults. See we all have our EBD side.
I would suggest that everyone listens to David Sedaris read his “Santaland Diaries” from NPR for some good synical, holiday cheer. It is a perfect fit for your post.
Great Kimmif cards. Tell Lainey I love her sassy pose in card #3. I love how the boys always entertain your camera. There is that line of resistance and embrace at their ages that is a hard one to walk, but they do it well.
Merry, Merry Christmas!
Emily Goot says
omigoodness. that picture of nella with the pouty cry face is the same face my little Emmett gives me sometimes. I love all your holiday family cards and I can’t believe how much brents sons look like him! beautiful family kelle and have a wonderful Christmas
Donna O. says
Merry Christmas to all of you. Love your card….I think next year I’ll put more effort and creativity into ours! π Enjoy all that is good about this wonderful season ~
Sarah says
Oh, Nella’s little pouty face was too cute!!! I love the Christmas cards!!! The glasses are awesome!!!
B's Mommy says
i adore the cards! Your little ones are the luckiest ever! Enjoy!! Merry Kimmif and Happy Always!
Claire says
I love your Christmas card so much!!! Absolutely amazing! I hope you have a very Merry Christmas!!
Sher says
The Merriest of Christmas’s to you Hampton Rockstars!
You all look like the offspring (Is that one word?) of Clark Kent!
Get those capes out and start chewin’ on a hellofalotta carrots to spit on that driveway!
I am glad I found you Kelle.
Sher
Debora says
Oh, my goodness, Kelle!!! your Christmas card!! how perfect π Ok, just a quick little story:
My husband took me to see the Nutcracker on Monday, and while I stepped out into the lobby during the intermission, I caught a glance of a gorgeous little girl (she must have been about 4)– she was sporting pretty blond locks, her prettiest dress, a sugarplum fairy tiara, and one sweet little extra chromosome. Someone was taking a picture of her with her sisters and she was just beaming! π Made my night so much sweeter, and it reminded me of the many smiles I get to see on your blog everyday– they make my life sweeter. So thank you for sharing them.
Love and merry Kimmith to you and your beautiful, beautiful family!
laugavitz says
Love the cards!
Lisa says
Merry Kimmif Kelle!
Thanks for sharing your life with so many people. I always look forward to your newest posts and keep the music on in the background while I work. Your creativity knows no bounds whether it be in pictures or words but most of all your love of your family and life shines through. I want to be you when I grow up (but sadly I’m older than you). Love the Christmas card – your family is precious.
melissa says
Merry CHRISTmas!!! SO happy to have found your blog this year, Kelle! Thank you for sharing your thoughts, photos …life. (And, Happy Birthday to you a little early!)
P.S. – a post awhile back, loved your story about kids losing it over shoes that don’t fit their babydolls…we can relate over here!! π
((Holiday Hugs))
Rosa says
Oh my god, LOVE the Santa pictures! The girls are so beautiful. And your xmas card, divine!!! (BTW, hot mamma!:)
Kathleen says
Love so many things about this post, but I think it was the ‘love touch’ that got me. My little guy’s paws have provided some pore cleaning facials over the past few months. Love. it.
Merry Christmas to the whole Hampton clan. Your blog is a gift to so many of us, so thank you. You encourage moms to love children and that is a pretty rock star way to make the world a sweeter, more compassionate place.
Happy carrot chomping!
Ky says
That Nella is such a princess!!! I love the touching face photo. It’s so emotive.
I’ve just started following you thanks to Becky at Farmgirl Paints who blogged about you being one of her blog crushes. I can see why.
Merry Christmas to you all! Oh, and Lainey’s mispronunciation is just gorgeous!
Love, love, love the family Christmas photo!
jennywren says
The pouty lip thing kills me. she is so precious. Love the santa pictures and everybody rocking “the professor” for the card. Fantastic. Merry Christmas to you and your family-it sounds like it will be perfect.
jennywren says
P.S. found your blog earlier this year through my sister and it has been such a blessing to our family. Love hearing your stories about being a mom, and you are definitely one amazing lady! Thanks for sharing your life with the rest of us. it means a lot to so many people. xxoo
Amanda@runninghood says
These pictures are so priceless! I also find the whole Santa-child-parent interaction funny. The kids seem a little weirded out by the whole thing every time! My now 5 year old always says something about the way he smells funny…his breath mostly. She says “that is not the real Santa because he doesn’t smell like Santa!!”
Mama Bee says
That first pic with Nella pouting on Santa’s knee melted me. My 3 year old calls is “Kissmas”. Who doesn’t want to celebrate a holiday called “Kissmas”. Melly Kissmas to you and yours, Kelle.
Jeanne says
I hope that your Christmas on your own “island” is wonderful. Me and my family are again gearing up for some magic and a wonderful day that has no work, no distractions, nothing but rainbows and unicorns. I can’t wait!!! Thanks again for your lovely blog…it is really a bright spot in the night for me. And has inspired me in many areas of my life! So…
Thanks!
And Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Ebony says
Oh my, Nella is looking like such a little girl now, not so much a baby!
Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family, from me and mine π
The Sanchez Family says
MERRY MERRY MERRY Christmas Kelle and family! So blessed to have found you this past year! What a joy you are to the world but mostly importantly to your family! You all ROCK it so well! xoxoxoxo Jen
Ashley says
Merry Kimmif Hamptons!! Love the Christmas cards!
Lorena M says
Love your card, very cool. But my favorite is the pout on Nella on Santas lap, so cute and funny.
Posie Patchwork says
Totally divine, in every way, love your family!! We’re doing Christmas just us 6 & we’re thrilled!! We can see family a few days later, ahhhh, stress-less i say, love Posie
Anna says
Merry Christmas,Kelly! To You and your Family!
And because my heart speak only polish: Życzę Tobie i całej twojej rodzinie miłych, spokojnych Świąt.Jestem niezmiernie wdzięczna ,że dzięki internetowi trafiłam do Was. Jesteście cudowni!
The Stepmother Diaries says
Love your outfit in the X-mas card!
– Teresa
http://www.preparingforthebaby.com
Amy says
Merry Kimmif! π
Jennifer says
Merry Kimmif! Too cute! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the cards! Just way too cute!
Looking forward to the coming days of updates from your Kimmif celebrations!
Merry Christmas to you all!
:o)
Tiffany says
OMG HOW CUTE IS THAT CARD! WE all love you Kelle, you are an inspiration to us all! Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family!
Linda MG in Soquel, CA says
Oh, KELLE! I am so glad to be part of our village, as you wrote. LOVE the Christmas card..er Kimmif card. What a beautiful family. You sure have the spirit, all the time. I, too, am grateful fo rmuch – including you and your blog. You make a difference in my life. Thank you and a very merry, blessed Christmas to you and yours, including Poppa Rik.. Love from you Blog mama
Rik says
And at 5:38 in the morning–my last day to work this week, I am wiping away tears at my keyboard…just “full”. Remembering last year when Nella was just hope and anticipation. Not knowing our gift and the accompanying gifts of the incredible family we have found here in Blogland! We have all been given new glasses through which to appreciate a world of wonder. And I just love the photos…Brandyn looking like he is thinking “you really need to photograph this” and Santa who appears to be sitting on a camping toilet, and the precious pout on the bean who, like every child that first year, needs rescuing from the bearded man in red. Merry, Merry Christmas to all…and any other blessed holiday celebrated at this year. Whatever the reason, celebrate the season!!! Love to all!
charmed and blessed says
Three words. You Frickin’ Rock!
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family π
ginabrocato says
I’m grateful that I found your blog this year! Love the card. Merry Christmas!
aprilanecdotes says
Wow, the post, the pictures, the attitude….loved it! susan
Stacy says
LOVE LOVE LOVE the christmas cards!
Lucy says
Happy Christmas again! Dog looking very intelligent in glasses alert!
Life is Like a Box of Chocolates says
Love the Christmas cards. A Merry Kimmif to you and your family as well!
Looking Up says
Love the cards….love that Blitzen story too! Definitely gonna use that when my son’s old enough to care about reindeer. π Have a Merry Kimmif
Cheryl says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family.
Jennifer says
Kelle-Love the post and the Christmas card but I have to know WHERE you got that SKIRT from? Love it!! Yo look adorable:)
Rhonda says
Oh Kelle…Merry Kimmif!!! How cute!!!
The pics of Brett with his hand on his Moms shoulder, then further up the way, the grandpa with his hand on Bretts sons shoulder and little Lainey walking beside…and the best part, is I know that it wasn’t a staged photo..Your family is truly beautiful!!!
And the pout on Nella bean…I am dying here….Couldn’t be any cuter!!!
If you have a second to check out my little girl singing on my blog…it is pretty lispy too..but oh so cute, and I cant even correct her its so damned cute!!!
Merry Kimmif!!
XO
mel says
Merry Christmas! Your post was just the dose of cheer, joy and gratefulness I’ve been searching for! Have a wonderful Merry Christmas!
Melissa says
totally stealing that “spits out the carrots” thing, that rocks π
love, love, love your card. merry kimmif to you guys. Thank you for inviting us into your life.
Bonnie says
Merry Kimmif Kelle, Brett, Austyn, Brandyn, Lainey, Nella, Sophie, and Latte. Enjoy your family time and we too will be rocking out Christmas this year.
We have already made the cookies for Santa, made our reindeer food to sprinkle on the driveway, read every Christmas book known to man. I can’t wait to see the look on my Emma’s face Christmas morning.
Lianna says
Merry Christmas Hampton Family!!!
♥
We, too, are grateful for all that you’ve given us! Your gifts rock!
Susie Q says
Wishing you, Kelly & Brett, and your girls and the boys, a very, very blessed Christmas and an even MORE MAGICAL 2011 (if THAT’S even possible??!!) – thank you all for sharing Nella and other special moments with us – truly, you are encouraging us all to Enjoy the Small Things. Rock on out of 2010….the best is yet to come!
Caitlin says
Here, here. My husband and I are spending Christmas sans decorations and tree, and our little pup too. It’s difficult to be away from our close-knit families, but we’re upholding what traditions we still can and enjoying the peace and joy of the season regardless of twinkle lights and festooned tree. Having each other is enough.
Happy Christmas to you and yours, Kelle.
Caitlin
You can see my post on our different christmas cheer this year.
The Martys says
Merry Christmas Kelle to you and your precious family. Your Christmas card is just awesome. Your creativity is spot on. Enjoy your time with your family.
Amy
Sarah says
1. Nella’s Santa Pout? EPIC CUTE!
2. I’d love to see a video of the procedure of getting not one, but TWO dogs to sit for a picture appropriately. Wearing glasses.
Merry Times!
Sarah says
1. Nella’s Santa Pout? EPIC CUTE!
2. I’d love to see a video of the procedure of getting not one, but TWO dogs to sit for a picture appropriately. Wearing glasses.
Merry Times!
Michelle says
I love your Christmas card!! Nella’s little love touch warms my heart and the fact that y’all get to have a family Christmas alone makes me jealous, LOL, I long for one of those. Merry Christmas!!!
Vonda says
Just LOVE Nella’s pout lip sitting on Santa’s lap, precious and pityful!!!:) And I have pictured in my mind, you, out on the driveway at midnight, chewing up carrots and spitting them onto the driveway. Just told my littles about this, so I guess I’ll be doing the same thing. They thought it was hilarious and said they can’t wait to check the driveway!!! Merry Christmas!!!
Kristin Branem says
That first Santa picture of Nella pouting? Oh my goodness. That is so darn cute. Merry Merry Christmas to one who inspires!
amypins says
Oh i love the love touch, my daughter is almost 3 and still does it, it’s amazing. and look at lainey rock the poses in that christmas card, she may be shy but one day that’s all gonna melt away and look out! Merry Christmas Hampton!
Autumn says
A very Merry Christmas!!!
Erin says
Love, love, love the Christmas card!
Merry Christmas to you and your gorgeous family. Thank you for all the joy you and your blog have brought to my life this year! You’ve taught me so much and helped me to slow down and enjoy the small things!
thetaooftulips says
merry kimmif to you and yours to- the Santa picture “joy” cracks me up too- last year I shared our series of Santa pictures thus far- and how much they make me laugh:
http://thetaooftulips.wordpress.com/2009/12/22/zuzu-day/
At least she’s clearly listened to the bit about not talking to strangers!
Quiltin' Jenny says
Merry Christmas! Love the glasses. You totally rock it.
Thanks for the gift of your blog, especially the last year. I hope it gives you back as much as we are all getting out of it!
Sandy says
Merry Christmas and may all your dreams come true.
Maureen says
Nella’s little pouty lip is so adorable π Beautiful Christmas cards!
Charity says
We too are hunkering in for the holiday! So looking forward to it.
I’m sure you will rock the holiday with your family. Enjoy!
Merry Christmas!
Team Lando says
Your blog is the best thing I’ve read getting ready for the birth of my daughter, who has DS. And you don’t even talk about DS…. It’s just Nella’s cuteness that does it for me! THANK YOU!
cathy says
kelle,
merry merry christmas to you and your beautiful family!!
i ADORE your christmas card pictures and the pics with your sweet babies on santas lap there are simply no words to tell you how stinkin sweet those babys are!
have a very blessed christmas, you too poppa rik!
Sarah RDH says
Those Kimmif cards are awesome!! love love love! And the Santa pics? Classic. Gotta love ’em. They always do the opposite of what you think they will do. Merry Kimmif to you & your family! I hope it’s your best kimmif ever!!!
Stunningly Sweet says
You’ve inspired me to be way more creative with our Christmas card next year! And by the way your reindeer story totally saved the day. My little Lilah woke up at 2:30 am all stuffy and I mentioned to my husband that I needed him to pick up some carrots for the reindeer…it was then that my dear husband mentioned that we needed to leave sugar for the reindeer (that was his family tradition). I said okay- that’s kind of fun, but we will need one heck of a story, and by golly you presented one that works perfectly for our little Lilah’s first Christmas that she may somewhat remember! (She was only two weeks old on Christmas last year)
Brandy says
Merry Christmas! We took my son to see that exact same Santa yesterday and he had that some look of, what’s going on?? I’m not impressed. But we have that memory now!
http://flic.kr/p/942atR
K says
Love the Christmas card! Your family is so beautiful.
Tricia says
LOVE the Christmas card! π Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family!
Jorie says
Merry Kimmif to you and yours!
TwolittleN's says
Nella’s pout is priceless! Merry Christmas to you all. Love the rocking christmas card. Thank you for a year of pleasurable reading that made me both laugh and smile π
Erin says
Nella’s face while on Santa’s lap in that first picture is priceless. I cracked up! She has the cutest pouty lip. Merry Christmas to your fabulous family!
BabyAdamsMakes3 says
Merry Christmas…I hope you guys have a very merry one and a wonderful Happy New Year. I have to admit…Nella is starting to look just like Lainey…maybe thats me though. π
Lana says
Merry Kimmif, to you, too! I have been reading your blog for almost a year now and am happy to be a part of your “village”. Thank you for reminding me of the things that really matter and for sharing your family with all of us.
I plan to be offline most of the holidays, too, but look forward to catching up with you in the new year.
Blessings to you and yours for a safe, healthy and JOYOUS holiday!
MJ says
Just want to say thank you for all of this beautiful imagery and prose. I check your blog daily, to inspire both the mom and artist in me. Most days I leave touched by something you’ve mentioned or awe-struck by an image you’ve captured in just the right way. Wishing you a fabulous Christmas season filled with all the joy you spread so easily.
Liz White says
Love this one. Love Nella’s face with Santa. Love the Kimmif card.
Thank you for making me smile (and get a little teary eyed) while at work, where I do NOT want to be.
lindsey says
Love your Christmas card! Hope you have an amazing time with your family
susan says
Things I love about this post…
Nella sporting a hair bow. Jana has wore one since day one:) I use to glue it in her hair with syrup:)
I also love the love that she is giving Brett with hand. Jana still does that to people. So sweet.
LOVE the Christmas card. So creative and so you. And by the way you have some Killer legs Hot Momma.
Merry Christmas!
Katie says
Your Christmas card is absolutely precious! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas with the family! Thanks for sharing your story with us. I stumbled upon your blog earlier this year and have been addicted ever since. So I thank YOU, for making my 2010 a little bit brighter and opening my eyes to the world of parenting a child with special needs. Merry Christmas to your whole family Kelle!
Farmgirl Paints says
Of course it screamed grateful! Every word you write is about gratitude…that’s why I come here.
That first pic on Santa’s lap was so precious. I’ve never seen Nella about to cry. So precious..and Lainey looked so unsure. You really captured the moment.
Your Christmas pic DID rock!! Love the glasses. Merry Christmas to you sweet girl. Hope you enjoy every little second:)
justus says
Merry Christmas Hampton Family!
Jenn and Blain says
Those Christmas cards are awesome … and my mind is already reeling! What a take … I love them!
Happy Holidays and a Merry Christmas to you and your family – you have shown us all how to count each blessing. One. At. A. Time.
Much love from Michigan!!
Keely says
Just wanted you to know that I enjoy your blog and I click on another browser so I can keep your play list going! Who needs Pandora? I’ve got Kelle’s play list!
Merry Christmas!
Keely
J Scheppl says
Merry Christmas!!!!
Mrs Showers says
omg I’m dying with love over your kimmif cards! They are adorable π As I embark on this journey called family soon (EDD 3/24/11) I think of all the traditions we will start as a family and carry on from my childhood…the Blitzen story is too precious.
Jamie says
Love the Christmas card. Beautiful post and Merry Christmas to your lovely family!
Tia says
I didn’t read through all the comments, and I am probably not the first to say this, but I will totally come knock on your door Christmas Eve. I will be bringing my husband and 4 year old girl with me. Ellie will just love Lainey and Nella. We are all alone this year too and really enjoying it surprisingly. Have a wonderful Christmas! And ps…It is totally scary being responsible for traditions isn’t it!?! I lost my mom 7 years ago and take it very seriously!!
obxbchgrl says
Merry Kimmif!
I’m sure I’m not the first to say this, but I save your posts for my last read on my blogroll. Because I am so in love with you and your family and wish I could walk to the lake with you and your gorgeous girls and giggle with Lainey and get a “love touch” from Nella. So, Merry Krimmif to you and your amazing family. And thank you for sharing your wonderful life with the rest of us.
Run on.
PS – My favorite card is the one with your two cutie-pie dogs! I love the whole glasses bit – too precious!
Meredith says
LOVE your Christmas card…right down to the doggies!!! Merry Kimmif!!
Dylan'sMommy316 says
Merry, Merry Kimmif! Thanks for the constant smiles. π
~KC: says
Merry Christmas to you and your lovely family! Thank you so much for opening your heart and for sharing so much :). XOXOXO
Happy Holidays to Poppa, all your readers and the beautiful souls that take a moment to share their love and words of wisdom in this wonderful space!
“Finding what supports you from within will link you to transcendence, reframe the perspectives received from your history, and provide the agenda of growth, purpose, and meaning that we are all meant to carry into the world and to share with others. The soul asks each of us that we live a larger life. Each day this summons is renewed.” ~James Hollis
momto1 says
I love all of your family Christmas photos but the first one is my favorite! Lainey has the hand on her hip – sassy little momma! and Nella’s mouth open like and ‘o’ It’s too cute for words! Thanks for sharing as always and Merry Christmas!!
The Harvin Family says
Merry Christmas to you and your gorgeous family! I love the Christmas cards, so rockin it out. Santa pick with Miss Nella pouting and Lainey happy is fantastic. Mine was just the opposite. The almost 3 year old refused to go anywhere near Santa but then crys out “I want Santa Claus!” Too funny but that is part of what makes “the magic”. Oh and Lainey’s little pose one the first Christmas card is so so fantastic. She is just so full of personality! Have a Merry Merry!!
Leslie says
LOVE, LOVE, LOOOOVE your christmas card!!!
Merry Christmas!!
KellyLane says
Love the lip sticking out in the Santa pic! How precious!Thanks for sharing with us!
Mama Mandy says
Hey, thanks for posting the Sea Scrub a few weeks ago. Me and my girls have developed tennis elbow from stirring the goods. Everyone we know has glowing hands and mine are now raw. I even took it to school and had 30 teenagers in heaven because THEY were making something cool to give as a gift. Your little seed grew.
Karen says
Kelle, I think little Nella is beautiful and I love the pic of her with her tambourine! Just cuteness! Love the Christmas card pics too! I look forward to your blog posts and being reminded of all the moments I have had and continue to make with my little ones. Thanks for making my year more special for my family just by being yourself! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
Karen H.
Leah Alexandra says
Merry Christmas to you and your family, Kelle! We are also on our own this year, no family visiting and we are not going anywhere, and even though I am a little bummed, and like you I would trade me right arm for a white Christmas I am trying to soak it all in with my little guy and start as many traditions as possible. And that has meant complete forgoing the gym and the laundry and the upstairs bathroom that despertly needs to be cleaned and instead baking and snuggling in PJ’s all day and having a constant stream on Christmas movies on. (Oh, and I bought the Glee Christmas CD…. I highly recommend it!)
Thanks for always being here to reaffirm that it’s ok to do nothing except soak in the moments!
Leah
http://www.lovelifeandmommyhood.blogspot.com
Jenn Clark says
And a Merry Kimmif to you too!
Leah Alexandra says
PS, I just read my comment and realize that it’s pretty jumbled with a bunch of typos! Please forgive me, I have a 15 month old using me as a jungle gym!
Leah
jen says
finn had the full out screaming cry so we had him on stella’s lap. and santa, bless his heart, had us redo the pictures and put finners on his lap. he said … “it always looks better in pictures if they are crying on my lap.” apparently he knew it’s all about the picture anyways.
and then some crazy lady with a weird puppet showed up and started tickling finn and the picture turned out all wonky anyways.
but … you are so right. it’s the memory for mama. notsomuch for them. though, dude. at 6 – i LOVE that stella gets it. but is kind of in that mystical – not sure but damn that it some kinda magic – stage.
i begged for a christmas away. not because i don’t LOVE family … but because to just have us would feel so good somedays.
next year. i’m totally taking us to hawaii.
merry christmas. or kimmif. xoxo.
Jodie says
Merry Kimmif to you and your amazing, beautiful family!
AussieMum says
A very Happy Christmas to you and your family!! love the card!
Chelsea says
Merry Christmas Hamptons! My 7 month old daughter Lily does the “love touch” and it melts me every time. Your Christmas card made me teary with happiness, what a fabulous crew. I just found your blog this month and as late to the game as I was, I went back and read every post in order. How strange to feel as though I know you through this one-way street. Thank you for sharing your family, your art, your writing and your joy for life and love. It has really helped me to look past all the stresses and “what if’s” and second guessing of being a new mom and just soak in the love of this little being. Thank you for the perspective. Looking forward to Nella’s first birthday pics!
Jennifurla says
Merry Christmas to you and your family, this blog is a pleasure to read.
Kelly says
LOVE the card!
Crystal says
I nomintate this for the best, funniest, cutest Kimmif card EVER! I absolutely love it — way to get me to choke on laughter this early in the morning. π
Kelly says
Love Love LOVE this post! From Nellas priceless pouty Santa face, to the “love touch” to the Christmas card (super creative by the way!)!
Your family is so beautiful and wonderful! Merry Christmas to you all!!
Victoria says
Merry Christmas to you and your family as well!!!
Love your card!!
And your girls just get sweeter every day π
God is great!
Ali's Mom says
Awesome post!! We are visiting Naples from Chicago for the holidays and have been looking for your family every time we are out and about! I truly feel like a stalker! We have enjoyed getting to know you this year and wish your family the Merriest of Kimmiffes! Enjoy every minute of your beautiful family – you truly are blessed and we’re happy to be part of your village! Enjoy
LeeAnn says
Stop reading comments & go enjoy your Kimmif!!! xo
Anne says
OMG! I LOVE your cards . . . I love when Christmas Cards make you laugh out loud π
The merriest of Christmases to you and your adorable family!
Cara says
I just have to say that that is the worst Santa ever! π I laughed so hard.
Brigetta says
I laughed out loud when I read about Comet spitting out carrots because I instantly had the mental picture of you out in your driveway biting off huge pieces of carrot, chewing it up and spitting chewed carrot chunks out all over just for the magical effect. And your neighbors would not be in the least surprised to see you doing that. LOL! ok, I’m still laughing :o)
I 100% LOVE the Christmas cards with all of you in glasses, you are such an amazing Mama! The thing is, you all look ADORABLE too! Especially Laney in her little pose…so cute!
Merry Christmas and looking forward to another fantastic year to come! I’ve been following your blog since January and will be remembering with you tenderly the day that changed your life forever in the best way possible.
~B
Brigetta says
Oh, oops! Not Comet, Blitzen…but still so funny.
Cathy says
You’re so right. “I am the matriarch of our family traditions, and Dammit, they’re gonna be good.” This is what I’ve been feeling this year. First time we’ve ever spent a Christmas in our house…sad but true. So…as we start our traditions with my 2 1/2 year old and 4 month old little boys…I’m trying to determine what traditions we’ll continue and what new ones will come about. Oranges in stockings…that one will stick around. I instantly think of Christmas when I smell oranges and pine. Love it!
By the way, my oldest is a boy version of Lainey. Same wispy blonde hair, same impish grin, same skinny body. π Love her, love you and of course Nella too!
Jelena says
Merry Christmas!! I love the Christmas cards! Enjoy the weekend. π
Evelyn says
I love the Christmas card pics! You are so creative, and what a great show of suport for your littlest little! Rock it!
Courtney says
Merry Kimmif to you and your family too!
The pictures of the girls with Santa are priceless lol and your right, parents do the whole ”sitting on Santa’s lap” for ourselves, its just to good to pass up π
PS. The family pictures are GREAT.
IRWSMom says
Look at your creativeness in those Holiday card greetings! ha! Lol! Love them! So funny! And clever! Merry Christmas to you and your Family, Kelle Hampton! Joy to you in 2011~~
~Monica
Bean says
Merry Kimmif!
I loveloveLOVE that you are up to your eyebrows in gratitude. Thank you for reminding me to jump in and bathe in it!
By the way, i LOVE your outfit! You look sassy!
P.S. The glasses are so cute on everyone.
DisneyRose says
Love love love the ode to the glasses! The Hamptons definitely know how to rock anything and everything!
Merry First Kimmif to Nella!
Thank you for making this crabby girl’s day a little bit brighter!
Tracie
Kelly Cach says
Oh my GOODNESS!!!! Oh, how I love, love, love your Christmas cards/photos! You are amazing, Kelle….and that’s an understatement. Everyone in glasses…..LOVE it! I get it π And wishing SO BAD I could give Nella a squeeze! (And also, my Nora just started reaching for our faces….”the love touch”….best Christmas present EVER π
Many Blessings this Kimmif,
Kelly
Soaking Up the Happy Life... says
Merry Christmas Hampton Family!
Rachael says
I want a love touch! So adorable!!
Love your Christmas Card!! LOVE the glasses!
Love the girls on Santa!
Love the picture of Nella with her hands up! Made me smile. Hey, she always makes me smile.
Love how Lainey says “Kimmif”.
I hope your family has a wonderful Merry Christmas!!
Leona says
Ohhhh, MERRY CHRISTMAS to you, Kelle!
Your blog has made such an impact on my life this past year!!
Thank you for that!
I am off to ROCK IT with my family,
Love to all of you!
L~
PS….awesome Christmas card and Nellas pouty lip w/ Santa, melt my heart <3
Kristine says
And much love to you all, as well. Fantastic cards. You never cease to amaze me with your imagination and talent.
Merry Kimmif!
xo
Kris
Hannah says
Best Christmas card ever! Lainey’s little rockin’ pose totally makes it too! And I love that sweet pout Nella has with Santa. My 18 month old screamed bloody murder with Santa this year, but it made for a pretty funny picture. Merry Christmas!
atyson says
Lovin’ Nella’s upset face on Santa’s lap. And Lainey’s all like, “I’m sittin’ here but I’m not really diggin’ it!” Merry Christmas to you all and may your days be filled with memory making!
Steph says
Your children, your writing, your photographs…. all beautiful. I’m new to your blog. And now hooked.
Thank you
Tiffany says
This local article made me think of your family – http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/paul_daugherty/12/22/jillian/index.html?eref=sihp – and that adorable Nella that I am SO in love with and her endless possibilities.
Merry Christmas.
Amie says
Merry Christmas, Kelle and family. I know it’s going to be your best one yet. And the card? Frickin’ awesome.
racheld says
AWWWW, so sweeet! And so memorable, for my middle ‘un ran away through the crowd at his only visit to Santa (small-town, grocery store) and I finally located him way over in the dairy case, hands over his face, lying in the cheese).
I love Santa photos, and yours are just the best, especially that little undecided lip about to quiver, and Big Sis on guard to comfort her.
And was it perspective or how does he WALK in those boots?! Seven-LEG boots, those are.
And a very happy, very bright and memorable Christmas to you all, Y’all.
rachel
Taylor says
Merry Christmas to y’all also! My 1 year old says dan-ta and if you ask her to say rudolph or reindeer she just shakes her head no and says “uh-uh” so cute! I LOVED the pic of them with santa and Nellas lip out! Go lainey for liking Santa this year my 3 year old rocked it also (last year no but this year she did great)! Loved the cmas card- ours was us and the girls kissing and said “merry kissmas”- have a great one merry merry!
joyfullyyours says
Merry Kimmif to you and your family, too.
May you find it to be at time of quite, of “good wolf feeding”, and of much love.
I love the card pics…you your little tribe really do rock!
Thanks for all the smiles (and even the tears) you have brought into my days this past year. I’m so glad that Donald Miller’s blog “introduced” us…
Blessings as you celebrate this most Awe-filled time of year.
Kelly says
Merry Christmas to you and yours!!
Mrs. G says
That is just the best Santa pic! That little pouty lip Nella has going on makes me chuckle a bit while feeling so sorry for her, poor thing!
Love your Christmas cards!
Merry Kimmif!
AbbyS. says
THAT POUTY LIP NELLA HAS IS THE BEST!!!!
I just might be in love with that photo! How stinkin’ cute!!
Merry Christmas to your rockin’ family from Kentucky.
pakosta says
Merry Merry Christmas to your beautiful, inspiring and loving family!!! I adore your words, and your love of life and you just INSPIRE ME more than you will EVER KNOW!
Tara
Michelle says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family, from a silent admirer. I thoroughly LOVE reading your posts!
Mommyto3Boys2Girl says
This has been a hard year for my family and I. We lost my grandpa and our home. Your blog always makes me smile and remember to enjoy the small things.
Thank you Kelle.
Merry Kimmif to you and yours.
Cheryl D in MI
Kuteog says
Love the pics as always, love the post… Merry Kimmif to you and your family!!
I am grateful that I found your blog this year, as it enlightens me every time I read it and absorb the photos.
Thank you!!
Sharon
Laura says
Perfect. I won’t be redundant and say what everyone else is probably saying…but I got the message. And I love your blog. And your Christmas cards. And your beautiful family. And your photography. Oh, oops, everyone already said that? =) Merry everyday.
j210209 says
Merry Kimmif!!
We are also ‘just us’ this Christmas and I’m looking forward to it so much!!
Cannot wait to read you ‘post christmas’ enteries!
Much love to you all xxx
4under3 says
Oh MY WORD! How much do I TOTALLY DIG the black frame glasses. So classic, Kelle.
And Lainey! In that first Christmas card picture…where she’s swung her hip out just so, and thrown in a little Christmas sass for the camera. I LOVE IT! I just want to squeeze her…and I’ve never even met her.
Have a Merry Christmas with yours. I know we will. [wink]
Tiff
Brian, Heather and 4 crazy kids! says
Where can I get that tambourine? Love the Christmas card! Have a Rockin Christmas!
PhotoPuddle says
Merry Christmas!! Hope you have a fantastic time! I don’t comment here a lot but I thought this would be a great opportunity to say I love your blog and find it totally inspiring!
Olga says
Happy Holidays!
You make me very happy when I can see your absolutely adorable kids. They are so beautiful, funny and graceful! Thank you very much.
Missy says
I’m sure you get this all the time but I can not read another post of yours without saying this: your family and your view on life is AMAZING!!! Every time I read a new post I have tears in my eyes! You inspire me to think positivly when life doesn’t feel so positive! We are so blessed and I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas.
feelsliketime says
Be Blessed and have a fabulous weekend!
Anna Ruth says
This is going to be the best Christmas ever. So glad it will be just family, snuggling and playing with the new toys from Santa.
Amy @ OurScoop says
Ha! What ADORABLE “Kimmif” pictures! The glasses are the perfect touch!
I LOVE FaLaLaLa Lifetime! We look forward to it every year!
I also love the love touch! My little Frankie with Ds is 6 months old and when he reaches out and touches my face, my heart just melts! Wish I had a photo of that one too.
Merry Christmas! Thank you for sharing you world with us through this growing year! Your inspiring words really carried me through some tough days!
God bless! Here’s to 2011!
Leslie says
Absolutely LOVED the Christmas card with all of the glasses. So creative!!
Merry Kimmif to all of you!
Jeanie says
Merry Christmas to all of you! Love the card and especially the glasses.
Callie says
Love, love, love the picture of the girls & Santa. Ha! Nella’s face is priceless.
memphis' mama says
…and rock it you certainly do. continue to live out loud and bless others with your written words that touch so deep. so real & unassuming & empowering. feel honored the 2010 reminded you of all the love and goodness that exists in our world…may your 2011 continue to do the same and then some. your little blog always leaves me feeling inspired and happy…for that gift alone: thank you. xoxo!
whitebite says
COOOLEST CHRISTMAS-CARD EVER!!!!
merry x-mas♥
Tracy says
Merry Christmas to you and yours too Kelle! Love the card too. Plus, I am thinking the Mary Oliver quote might just be my theme for 2011…big changes coming my way.
I’ll rock ’em…thanks again.
Charity says
Ok I LOVE that first picture with Nella in it on the floor, she looks like she’s being ornery and planning something.. the way her hands are and the look on her face.. it looks like she’s sayin “ok guys.. here’s what we’re gonna do!” she is hatching a plan!
Million Dollar Mamma says
i love how Brett has flip flops on & u are in stiletto! the same w/ me & my honey hubbie!
Clare says
wow!! i get to be lucky #200! merry christmas to your sweet, sweet family!! pictures with santa are priceless, and i am lovin your christmas card! have a great time setting out your reindeer food, we are doing that too:) I have heard the reindeer really like oatmeal and glitter too!
Sarah says
Your Kimmif Cards are priceless!
Mommy B says
Merry Kimmif! Or, as my girl says “Merry Krisemf!”. π Wonderful card.
Katie says
Merry Kimmif to you too, sweet Hampton Family.
-From the windy city
OhanaMama says
It’s all perfect. Merry Kimmiff to you and your’s!
Sheva says
I have to say hands down that is the best card EVER! You guys rock i hope your holiday is wonderful!
~KS says
Merry Kimmif to you and your beautiful family. Your Christmas card just made me happy right through to my soul. I love it.
And doing nothing on Christmas… sounds heavenly. Enjoy every beautiful minute.
andrea says
I LOVE THIS POST!!
BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS!
MY 3 YEAR OLD SAYS MERRY TRISTMAS;):)
Diane says
Kelle…
I found your blog last spring when we learned that our first grandchild may be born with DS. Hearing those words was like a hard punch in the gut. Searching the internet to try to learn as much as I could about DS, I stumbled across your blog. It saved me and healed my heart. Reading your story and seeing your photos of your lovely family, I was slowly able to breathe again. Our beautiful grandson Jackson was born last week. I felt a great sense of peace when it was confirmed that he does have DS. Because you have opened your home and your heart through this blog, you have given me a glimpse of the joys ahead of us. Of course, there will be challenges but, like you and your family, my son and daughter-in-law are determined that DS will not define Jackson. They are fortunate to have a supportive group of friends and a big loving family who have welcomed our little guy in a big way. We are so happy to have him in our life.
I have also enjoyed reading your Dad’s posts. His words have been a source of comfort and encouragement for this new grandmother as we embark on this great journey.
So, in this most joyous season, we celebrate our most precious gift and thank you for your gift you keep on giving…your infectious spirit, your love for life, and your delight in the small things that keep us going. If you are ever in the Annapolis area, the welcome mat is out for you.
Merry Christmas,
Diane
Crystal says
Nella’s arms reaching in the air as she sits on grandma’s lap- stunning!
The sweet new Nella hairdo- precious!
Tearful face on Santa’s lap- darling.
The family Chirstmas cards- perfect!
One of these days I am going to take your advice and slow down. Maybe I should follow your lead.
Merry Kimmif Hampton Family!
Lori McPherson says
Our Kimmis cards have Mary Oliver on them, too! Love your card. It is adorable! Kuddos for getting your teenagers to pose for them. They seem like awesome big brothers! Merry Kimmis and Happy New Year!
Happiness is... says
Life. Is. Good. Especially grateful for the Kimmif’s of our lives and the little voices that create that imperfect (but oh so perfect) beauty.
KC – The quote – gotta love it especially “The soul asks each of us that we live a larger life. Each day this summons is renewed.” ~James Hollis. Shall we always feel the need to grow and to actually take the opportunity to do so.
Merry Christmas to all.
-Jennifer from Annapolis
Stef says
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
edie & ella says
Oh my … I loved all your Christmas card photos and laughed and laughed …. such a great spirited family!!! And just when I thought it could not get any funnier I got to the last shot of the dogs. OMG … AWESOME!!!
Jill says
Merry Christmas, Hampton family!
Nella’s pouty lip on Santa’s lap…oh my!!Love her!
Lainey’s first pose (hands on hips) on your Christmas card is adorable and sassy. The cutest!
(A message to Diane if you come back to read comments. Congrats to you!! My daughter (4 years old) has Ds. She was also the first grandchild. Let’s just say all the other grandchildren have had a very tough act to follow. Jackson will bring you so much happiness…more than you can even imagine.)
Love,
Jill B (Overland Park, KS)
http://lexiandluke.aboutmybaby.com/
prettipenny says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family! I just had to comment on how Lifetime movie comment made me laugh- they are my total guilty pleasure!
Kulio says
Merry Christmas Eve!!!!
And I can’t stop laughing at Santa’s fake boots.
hahahahahaha
Krista Hansen says
Beautiful! Merry Christmas to you and your family. You have added so much to my life this year with your blog and I thank you for that. May your family be blessed with good health and happiness.
Lisa says
Kelle there’s a whole lot of love going on here.
Love the X-mas card, love the pics, love the Santa moment, love the reindeer story with the carrots (will have to steal that one…hahahah), love the positive and fun attitude that you exude.
With the year coming to an end I’m sure you have realized how many peoples lives you have touched. It’s amazing how life works.
Merry Christmas to the Hampton Family.
Lisa in CA
jenlar3 says
So who gets to be the one to go spit out partially chewed carrots in the driveway for the “evidence”???
Enjoy your Merry Kimmith!!!
SiobhΓ‘n says
Love, love, love your Kimmif greetings! Have yourselves a very merry little Christmas … sending love all the way from Derry, Northern Ireland (which has gone all out to give us the full winter wonderland experience!)
Sara says
Awesome. “Merry Kimmif” to you! π
Funnelcloud Rachel says
LOVE the Christmas card photos! Have a rockin’ Kimmif, Hamptons!
Annie says
Amazing the lives you have touched. Thank you Kelle.
Amy says
So I was all, awww I love this post, look at Sweet Nellas little lip in the first pic on Santas lap, awwww. Then I got to your family photo and at first glance was all, ok what the eff is up with Kelles glasses? Are those a joke? Um, shes usually so stylish, what is that about? Annnddd thheennn, I saw everyone elses… bahahahahaha! LOVE THEM!
Merry Christmas to your family!
Grateful, grateful, grateful! I get it! We are feeling so blessed as well.
xo
Lissa says
Merry Krimmif Hamptons!
Kasey says
Merry Christmas girlie…
come see what we did yesterday…i know you would appreciate it.
xo
Larissa says
merry christmas!! my little girl was 4 days old for christmas last year, so i kinda feel like this one is the first one to “count” for her… SOO excited!! π
Alice says
Merry Christmas!
Dont you love how they mispronounce things? I’ll miss it when my little girl actually says Christmas instead of Kippymas!
And your Christmas card is adorable!
Kristy says
These are so cute and fun!
Ashley says
Ok so I am a serious addict to your blog–with your last few postws my heart skipped a beat. My family lives in Utah, as do I, and there are few things more breathtaking than flying into the SLC airport.
Next time you are in Utah there are hoards of other things to do.
Marianne says
Merry Christmas from ours to yours! Love the pictures!
Jenny says
Merry Kimmif to you and your family! Thanks for taking a moment to share one of your delicious-anticipation-of-the-big-day days with us π I love your Christmas card!
Ann @ I blog, therefore I am. says
I laughed out loud when I saw those Christmas cards. Too stinkin’ cute!
RMAinMD says
,,,love nella’s pouty lips while on santa’s lap,,,he would make me cry too,,,merry, merry and all things bright!,,,
katie says
I love your silly Christmas card! We went for ridiculous this year, too:
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5244/5281090901_b15aa98a0f.jpg
Happy Holidays!!!
Theresa says
Merry Christmas Kelle! From our family to yours π Much holiday cheer all around. Cheers!
Josephine Sicad-Minerva says
Everything ADORABLE. You INSPIRE ME much! Merry Kimmif,to you too and the family! =)
Angelina Taumaoe says
Amazing card! Your creativity knows no bounds! I hope so much that your day tomorrow is filled with love and joy π
kwistytoodles says
Merry Christmas!!!
Claire @ Scissors Paper Rock says
Merry Christmas to you & your amazing family Kelle!
As I type this, it’s 10pm on Christmas night here in Australia! We’re staying in an amazing holiday house on the water, with my whole family….9 adults & 6 children {all under 5 yrs} all in the one place, together, for a whole week! It’s BLISS baby! Loving every moment of it π But before I slipped off to sleep & say goodbye to Christmas Day 2010…I had to log on quickly to read my fave blogs & wish you a very magical day!
Rock on LOVELY LADY!
xo
carmen says
¡Feliz Navidad Kelle and Hampton family! There were so many great pics there! Hope Santa is especially good to you and your lovelies. See you in the new year.
Carmen in Boston
carmen says
¡Feliz Navidad Kelle and Hampton family! There were so many great pics there! Hope Santa is especially good to you and your lovelies. See you in the new year.
Carmen in Boston
Teresa @ Grammy Girlfriend says
Merry Christmas to my blog friend…Hope you have a wonderful day.
Teresa
The Love's says
I LOVE the Blitzen-carrot-spitting tradition. I usually leave bells on the girls’ doors on Christmas Eve and we have a “Polar Express” moment on Christmas morning to see if they still believe. Well between presents, half-eaten cookies and hiding Derek (Our elf on the shelf) away for the year…I consciously decided the bells aren’t that big of a deal and that they won’t miss them. GUESS WHAT??!! They totally missed them. I had a mom lie to cover, but deep down I know I cannot redeem myself for 365 days. Bummer. What a lovely Christmas is was anyway.
We control our traditions as moms and I will not skip anything ever again. Love your blog and love your messages. Here’s to “Rockin'” 2011!
heather says
I love your Christmas card, such a cool idea. Merry Christmas and a happy new year to your family…
Becky says
The “love touch” is something my 4-year-old little boy (who happens to have Down syndrome) STILL does. He will cradle my cheeks in his hands and stare into my soul and it is the best feeling in the world. Sometimes he’ll say “I love you, mom” as he does it; or “I love your hair” (as he strokes it with his little hands). He can say the sweetest things that make your heart melt.
Shannon says
Kelle– I totally relate to the idea that ” if someone rang our doorbell right now, I’d shout for everyone to freeze and lay down and pretend we’re not home”–you completely put into words the feeling of find solace within your home from the outside craziness sometimes π
Looks like you guys had a beautiful Christmas ! Now I can’t wait to see what you do to celebrate New Years! π
Heth says
I am sure that you had a wonderful, beautiful Kimmif! LOVE the card!
Katie says
Love, love, love the Christmas card!!!
P-nut says
i know i’m super late but hope you had a merry kimmif! ha ha.. she’s cute! and i love your christmas card!! so fun!
Mary says
Cute Christmas card! I’m just catching up on your posts. I just had to comment that our girls, Nella and my little one, wore the same outfit for Christmas pics and they’re just a week or two apart in age.
Erin says
Okay….I have to know, where did you get the ROCKIN’ Stones tee your son is wearing in the family pic? I have been looking EVERYWHERE for it (no, really, like EVERYWHERE!)for my teen to wear in our shoot in Seattle in a few weeks. He loves the Stones but I REFUSE to have him wear a picture with a Mick Jagger’s mouth and toungue sticking out for all the world to see in our “loving, sweet, memory-keeping family photo”. Please help me! Send me the link…any hints at all! (erin-patneaude@comcast.net)
Love you, love your blog, love your style, love your darling daughters, love your sense of humor!