It shifted. Under a skinny slice of moon Friday night, our Florida welcomed its first cold front of the season. Saturday morning, I stumbled out of bed, poured my coffee and headed toward the lanai after Brett prompted, “Go outside right now. Trust me.”
It was all I could do to refrain myself from running through the streets, twirling in my pajamas, singing “The hills are alive.” Oh, I will someday. But my pajamas weren’t embarrassing enough.
There was a breeze–a cool, earth-scented breeze that lifted the veil of humidity and delivered souvenirs from the north. Like a good excuse to wear boots.
Dot came over in a fall fever fury to make a Halloween craft with Lainey (she found it on Pinterest).
And we used every opportunity this weekend to enjoy cross breezes inside with open windows, and full breezes outside with open arms.
We’re getting very skilled at marrying our thirst for cooler temps with embracing the ones we have.
Water park birthday party this weekend
It’s all good.
And then there’s soccer.
Well it did something to me. Much like ballet recitals and birthday parties.
I just kept thinking, I’m so happy to be here. In this privileged world of little ones that need our help lacing up their shoes before games and need our assurance as they timidly step outside of our space into their own.
As we walked into the sunlit field Friday night for practice–holding our girl’s hand, joining the throng of other families who also snapped pictures and retied loose shoe laces, I couldn’t help but hold back tears. I am the girl who dreamed of these things when I was twelve. Who played House with my friends and pretended to drive kids to soccer practice because, surely, that was the epitome of a dreamy future. And being here–in this magical world of loving them–it’s so much more awesome than I could have ever imagined. And yes, ballet recitals and birthday parties and first soccer practices are perhaps cliche’ opportunities to be hit with those tearful moments of pride when really, the deep, the raw, the beautiful real moments of parenthood most often come in the unordinary everyday. But these milestones are gifts. Wake-up calls for me to stand on the side lines and gain the perspective of the bigger picture–the one that says “You’re a mom and that little girl out there with the crooked pigtails to match her crooked smile? She belongs to you.”
She is strong and adventurous and slowly strengthening her little wings that will one day fly unguided. She can hear me cheering, she can see me smiling, she can feel that quiet voice inside me that magically connects to her and it’s saying “you are so freaking cool.”
Practice was ridiculously dreamy with a good breeze, a field full of sun flare, and an eager girl who comfortably kicked the ball and listened to the coach. We followed up with pizza and beer with friends.
And Saturday’s game–well it was just very very funny.
This picture was taken in the middle of a wild ball chase. Like every team member was running together, stuck to the ball, following its course along the grass. Except Lainey and her friend who just stood blocking the field, holding hands and looking at each other because they didn’t know what else to do.
And we’re all laughing and coaxing and watching the coach sweetly nudge. Until both girls ran to us saying they didn’t want to play anymore and poor Lainey cried that there were too many boys.
So we sat this one out.
We bumped into Nella’s P.T. and O.T. on the field.
Brought in Daddy and big brother for a little coaching.
And we’ll be back next week to either watch and cheer our teammates or jump back in and try again. Either way, my little bird will learn to fly on her own time. Just like her sister who’s thinking about those very first steps too.
And “first steps” leads me to something very important today.
This year, we will walk for the second time to celebrate our girl and to support individuals with Down syndrome. On October 22, we will join with friends and family for The Buddy Walk–an emotional celebration and a small representation of what we do in real life. We march forward, we move toward the future, we lean on the support of friends and family and we celebrate our love not only for our child but for the thousands of individuals with Down syndrome who have touched the lives of so many.
If you live in the area, we would love to have you come and support our community by walking with us. If you’d like more details, please e-mail me at kellehamptonblog@comcast.net.
And if you can’t walk with us, we’d love to have you help us support the National Down Syndrome Society by making a donation–any donation you can–to Nella’s Rockstars’ Buddy Walk fund. All proceeds benefit the NDSS whose mission is to be the national advocate for the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.
We’ve witnessed the power of your kindness earlier this year when your donations helped us raise $105,000 for Nella’s ONEder Fund. Thank you, thank you. We keep moving forward though and, in efforts to see this double by the time Nella turns two, we’re gearing up again. Click HERE to make a donation, or you can click the “Nella’s Rockstars” button on the right sidebar.
Thank you for your continued support. Truly, thank you.
Tomorrow, we will return with a Hallmark sponsored post on our Fall traditions. Of course, I hate talking about that, so it will be no fun at all.
Happy Monday.
Patti says
wish we could come walk with you!
Trini says
My how Lainey is growing!!!
Heather Catherine says
Happy Monday! Love all the soccer pictures…Makes me think of when I was that age playing soccer! You’d better bring some orange wedges to one of those games 🙂
ohsoblessed says
Thank you for sharing your life and encouraging me in so many ways! I have loved following your journey over the past year and a half or so. My daughter was born a few weeks before Nella and I love watching the girls grow up “side by side”.
I recently read a book called “One Thousand Gifts” by Ann Voskamp. I thought about your life motto of “enjoying the small things” as I was reading it and the book has changed my life. Possibly you would enjoy it as well! Ann Voskamp’s writing is very poetic and it reminds me of your writing…captivating.
Have a wonderful day!
Kelle says
ohsoblessed,
Ann Voskamp is a very good friend of a mama I’ve become very close with over e-mail (we both have children with D.S.). Just got a signed copy a few weeks ago and finished reading it last week. Beautiful.
Suzanne says
I saw that same moon Friday! I told Husband “I wish I had a camera that could take a picture of that moon!” We were driving home from our “date night” which is really our weekly grocery shopping trip.
We have soccer also, but in our town, in the Midwest, it’s there that I hang out with my bloggy buddy and we talk about Pinterest, how stinkin’ cold it was and how we both knew people who had the Bionic Woman doll. Ah, the good ol’ days. 🙂
lovemy3 says
Loved the pic of Lainey and her friend on the soccer field! I love reading about your longing for fall. There is nothing like the season of the Midwest. But remember…it is so unpredictable! We had fall temps and rain last week and sun and 80s this week! Nella really is a rockstar!
Selena says
What a lovely, encouraging post. Tears are rolling down my cheeks as I’ve had a challenging at-home time with my busy boys this morning. Thank you for reminding me of what I already knew… that these precious little boys (3 & 17 mos) belong to me and how very thankful I am for them, even amidst the craziness of being a stay-home mom. I need to enjoy the moment and “invest” in them during each and every moment. Thanks again, for the encouragement. I love your family although I don’t know you. Thank you for sharing your life with us. And may the DS walk be a blessing to your family and the many others who have precious children like sweet Nella. Looking forward to tomorrow’s posting!
Just Trying Not to Blink .... says
There’s just something about being a “soccer mom” that’s awesome, isn’t it? My oldest just had her second game and half of her team was out there picking dandelions during the game rather than going for the ball. Too funny!
Have a fab buddy walk. I would join you if I was in Florida!
Team Lando says
Oh, and now thanks to your comments, I have a new book to read!
Love the soccer photos and stories. Looks like Lainey is lucky to have such a good big brother to play with her, too 🙂
Happy almost Buddy Walk! Ours is the 15th. Something tells me your sweet Nella might want to get those first steps down in time to “walk” part of the Buddy Walk.
Bonnie says
Lainey looks adorable! We had the same issue with my daughter playing soccer. With a little practice she was good as new and ready to play with the team.
Jessica says
I so adore Lainey’s soccer pics! We are doing three year old soccer and it kills me every single time I watch it. LOVE watching him do his thing and become his own person!
Manda says
LOVE the picture of lil Nella from above. She’s so cute.
I can’t wait til Madyn is involved in sports and I get to experience those practices and games! ahh! Lainey looked SO cute in her soccer gear! Hopefully next week she’ll play! 🙂
Jessica says
Kennedy is in soccer too & their practices & games are so fun to watch! Got to love 4 & 5 year olds trying to play soccer!
Wish I was in Florida to walk with you!
Summit of Glory says
Adorbs pic of Lainey & her friend while the team is in hot pursuit of the ball. Hilarious! Poor kid. Wish we could walk w you on the 22nd. xoxoxo
mich says
I was awoken Saturday by my husband yelling at me to go outside too … being from the Midwest but living in Florida I needed this season shift. i dressed my boys in their new jeans and hoodies and we went on a walk to find alligators. not quite apple picking but I will take it : )
thethinkingmom says
I’m in Celebration, Florida & am so loving this coldfront! Baked pumpkin muffins to celebrate 🙂 Looking forward to your fall post tomorrow!
The Annessa Family says
She looks about as interested in soccer as me when I was her age 🙂
Too cute!
Brooke
http://www.TheAnnessaFamily.blogspot.com
043526ec-535b-11e0-9fb0-000bcdcb471e says
Does Lainey’s shirt say Optimist Nation?! 🙂
Becky@IfTheseWallsSpoke says
Love all the soccer pics 🙂 Happy fall!
mom2mikaylaandnoah says
I recently happened upon your blog and really enjoy reading it. Thank you for reminding me to take the time to enjoy those every day moments of my kiddos {sometimes I forget with all the hustle}. I have a friend whose son was born in March with DS. On Oct. 29 I will be doing the walk with them.
Katy says
Wish I could be there to walk with you guys. I’ll be there in spirit though
Melissa says
We had our Buddy Walk here in the San Francisco Bay Area this part Sunday! (This was our second also as our little almond eyed beauty is 16 months old). Last year there were 450 registered to walk – this year there were 1100! It is so overwhelming to think about all of the support and how much awareness is being raised!!!! I am so happy to be a part of such a worthy cause and such a wonderful community!
Kelly Cach says
Yep, tears and soccer….funny how two things like that go together 🙂 And the pic of big brother helping….oh, my!
The Dot craft!!! Could be used for so many occasions! I think I like Dot. She seems nice 🙂
We have started our Fall celebration by harvesting 18 ACCIDENTAL pumpkins in our back yard! Amazing what last year’s pumpkin can do 🙂
Much love,
Kelly
Ellen says
I am also the girl that dreams of taking kids to soccer practice and such. I can’t wait! And your blog makes me even more excited to be a mom and do fun/precious things with my kids. Thank you!
Love is all you need says
So glad you got your breeze. Wish we lived near so we could go on that walk and support your beautiful daughter.
celsden says
I have been so blessed since I bumped into your blog a little while ago. I’m not a person who easily sees and appreciates the small things in life and I have really appreciated hearing about your life and your family, your joys and challenges and everything in between. The opportunity to look at life in this way has really helped to remind me of my own blessings in life and I have been in desperate need of the reminder at times. Thanks so much for your candid honesty. It has given me a new and much needed perspective on life.
Sarah says
Isn’t the fall great??? I really hope this isn’t a teaser. I am ready for sweaters and boots too! I think the term soccer mom gets a bad rap. I can’t wait to be a “something” mom! Happy fall to you and your beautiful family!!!
Jennifer says
A splash park birthday party in the beginning of October. I LOVE it!!! Wishing some more fallish weather to come in your direction :0)
– jen
walls.jennifer1 at gmail (dot) com
Kisha says
Okay, here in the desert amidst all the Cati and brownness, I too broke out the boots and a sweater for a cute fall ensamb…
I paid for it when it warmed up, but the Autumn breeze that I felt that morning which inspired my clothing choice will soon be strong enough to keep the 90’s at bay — I’m sure of it!!
Have a great walk & an wonderful Monday!
Mergen's says
Love the soccer shots! Such a fun sport for kids. Nella is such a cute little peanut.I just love her!
MammaMania says
Reminds me of when my girls played soccer. They look like a little swarm of bees with a few sitting it out and taking it all in.
My daughters laugh at me when I get that overcoming feeling of pride. They just don’t get it, yet. They are 18 and 20 carving out their on way, but make me so proud.
Glad you got to bust out the boots. The weather is teasing us in central IL. High 70’s most of the week.
Have a great week, Kelle!
Hazel says
Oh those two standing holding hands is so cute! I’ve heard kiddie soccer is funny to watch, a swarm of kiddies running after the ball. I’m sure as you’ve always written, Lainey will be ready when it’s the right time for her! You go Nella, with the buddy walk, I’d love to come over and walk with you all, but I will be there in spirit all the way from Tasmania.
sarah says
How Brett’s heart must’ve jumped for joy when Lainey complained there were too many boys! 🙂 And I do hope you’ll include a different colored ribbon in her pig tails each week to give that pop-of-color her grey and black uniform needs. And who in the world knew shin guards and cleats were so darn cute??? And Nella, oh Nella. She is dreamy sugary cute and sweet. Just a doll. If there was any way I could be on a plane down to Naples for the Buddy Walk, I’d be there. Lots of cool fall breezy dreamy good wishes sent your way!
Sarah says
That’s so great that the weather cooled off for you guys! I wish it would do that here! BTW Your outfit is to die for. You are so cute!
– Sarah
http://agirlintransit.blogspot.com
Dymbrulee says
My dad was a kid’s soccer coach during my school years. He called it “magnet ball” lol
Sarah says
I got surpirsingly happy about being a soccer mom this fall, too. So glad your music is back. Happy Fall!
K says
I think my parents have a picture of me at my first soccer game that is identical of the one you have of Lainey. I had the same pig tails (or “spice tails” because baby spice was my idol) and I don’t think that I touched the ball once for the first few games. All I did was run beside the pack of swarming kids kicking away up and down the field.
I hope the buddy walk goes great!
alohakeiki says
We unfurled our freak flag today! My mother doesn’t decorate much since we became adults. I felt it was my duty to make the flag fly freakin’ high in her house. Right now they are on vacation in Maine. They have no idea what’s comin’!
Happy Monday
Apryl
Meagan Kenney says
This post makes me want to put my girls in soccer! Lainey is adorable! And I love Nella’s hot pink metallic shoes…she’s always so stylin’! Enjoy your cooler weather!
Lesley says
I remember skipping soccer one day to play in my neighbors new play house. (I just used to go on the field and pray the ball never came my way anyway!)
Here in Switzerland the air is crisp and cool and autumn is truly upon us. Lovin’ Autumn. Love love love. Getting ready to fire up the ol’ pot belly.
Lx
Farmgirl Paints says
i love you! i do!! that you would want to twirl in the streets at a cold front…that’s hug worthy right there. i feel the same way. it’s finally cooled down here and i’m loving every second of it. pulled out my hunter boots and everything. wish i lived closer. i’d be walking with you. oh and those girls i have…i still can’t believe i’m their momma. it is the greatest feeling in the world.
TammyW says
Our Buddy Walk was last weekend and it turned out great. We didn’t stay long because my little guy doesn’t like noise and the DJ was pretty loud. My husband worked our organizations D.A.D.S. table right near the DJ–poor guy.
I hope you guys have a great Buddy Walk.
Melina says
Hi Kelle!
…and cue the “yeah, this will be a good day!” feeling that I wrote about.
Tell Lainey that I play extreme sports and sometimes I sit alone at the edge of the cliff (literally) and feel frustrated that there are so many boys.
Other days, I just go crush and show them all up.
And it’s all okay.
Much love,
Melina
http://www.thewildercoast.com
Claire says
Love your posts! Each one is so uplifting and true!
Cxx
Amy says
The photos of Nella kissing herself in the mirror….oh, so sweet. Hope the Buddy Walk is an even bigger success this year.
Debby says
The picture of Lainey and her friend holding hands is just precious. My granddaughter was the same way. She cried alot during soccer. Her daddy made her follow through with the season. It got a little better and she enjoyed it a little.
Your girlies hair is sure getting long. Such pretty light hair.
You+Me=Family says
I wish I could join in on the Buddy Walk! About the same time I started reading your blog, I started a new job where I have two staff members with the magic chromosome. Seeing sweet Nella in their faces has made me appreciate them on another level. Both of my staff are incredible people. One is mischievious and just plain funny. The other is my ray of sunshine, hardworking and positive no matter what. They both contribute so much, on a personal and professional level and I am lucky to know such special people : )
Kalena says
A friend of mine has a cute little story about little kids at soccer practice. The PeeWee team was running all about on the field having a blast for some time when suddenly one of them looks up and exclaims excitedly to my friend, “Look! There’s a ball out here!”
patricia says
Don’t you just love the energy the Walk creates Kelle? I just did th Walk Now for Autism with my Family in honor of my 19 year old son Connor. I am always in awe of the amount of energy at these events. It always gets me so pumped and I leave so energized for all it represents and for all the unity. We had so much fun. Wish I could post a picture:) They all made me smile when I downlaoded them. Glad our Northern air came your way! (I’m from Boston!) xx
Rachele Alpine says
I’m obsessed with that sweater you wear with the lace around the collar. Have you shared where you got it? Will you share? If you have a second, I’d LOVE to hear where I can get something as beautiful as that!
Rachele
(RAlpine@aol.com)
the girl named Bleah says
I hope to one day have a family like yours… and be such a fantastically involved and beautiful mother like you! 🙂
Claire @ Scissors Paper Rock says
Haaa Lainey & her little friend hand-in-hand frozen on the field….made me smile! Something my girl would do! LOVE IT!!!! Looking fwd to reading your Fall Traditions post….Autumn {Fall} isn’t really noticable here in Australia so I love living it through you & your blog Kelle.
xo
Marie HMJ says
You are so amazing! I love this blog, and check in all the time. Your girls are just gorgeous. What a great mom!
Marie
fiveindulgences.blogspot.com
tracyallegre says
the picture of Lainey and her friend on the soccer field made me Laugh! Too many boys, HA! Nella has touched me heart so deeply that I couldn’t think of not supporting her! Have a great walk!
The Hartsfield Family says
This month always reminds me of how proud I feel to be amongst the extraordinary group of parents raising their little loves with extra somethings. 🙂
The pictures of Lainey & her friend are always amongst my favorites. Every time you post pictures of them, I can’t help but admire how completely adorable they are together. I think Lainey’s found her first *forever friend*. 🙂
Happiness is... says
You know, Nella girl looks SO big until her PT tosses her into the air. He makes her look SOOO small! But the joy on her face. Priceless.
I love the garland. OH, that’s a good project. Damn, I have to go back to Joann’s again. One that many can accomplish; and all without a sewing machine. 🙂
And I agree with Melina – just go crush and show them all up. LOVE that sentiment, girl!
-Jennifer
Beck Gambill says
Your girls are delightful! It’s amazing how those moments full of joy can overflow mommy hearts to bursting! Nella is such a doll, I wish you all the best as you raise awareness and money for the care and dignity of people with Down Syndrome.
Laura says
Our Buddy Walk is on October 29th! We will walk for the 4th time to celebrate my niece, Dessa! I love your beautiful words about this walk. My niece has changed and touched my life in so many ways. I am truly blessed to be her Auntie!
MaryBeth says
Being a mom is the biggest honour in life!
Being a soccer mom is just plain fun! Wait till the day comes when your girl scores a goal – I cried my eyes out every time, even when they were 18!
You bless me the way you embrace it all.
Wish I could come walk with Nella. I love that little one!
Renee says
I will walk with you in spirit, from the West Coast.
Lainey looked adorable out on that field. I can’t imagine what it feels like to have those moments yet, but I’m sure it’s amazing. I can’t wait to have those moments of my own with Arya. Yay for Daddy and Big Brother’s help. I think those moments are just as heart warming as the rest. 🙂
I’m happy to hear you got a cold front in! We got rain here and I must tell you that it finally feels like fall to me. I even made a pot of soup this weekend to go along with the feeling. I can’t wait to read your post tomorrow. Have a wonderful evening!!
aprilanecdotes says
It’s Monday evening here and finally getting quiet after the kids did their bowling and had dinner. April gave blood again today and now has donated 1 gallon. Yes, people with Down syndrome save lives too. Your post today was like a small gift to end my day. Thank you. susan
mrshojo says
Lainey’s comment about too many boys reminded me of our middle son’s comment about his nursery class at Sunday School. He refused to go because “There’s too much girls”. So the K teacher allowed him to come to her class with his brother, where there were lot of boys.
I love following your blog, have also just read “One Thousand Gifts”, a quick read. Now I must go back and really absorb it in my mind and in my life.
Christine Gottemoller says
Thank you! After a very busy morning with my girls, we had returned home and my 2 yr old was napping. I had just sat down and was reading your post, when your mention of ballet had me jumping off the couch shouting, “Ballet! You have ballet! We’ve got to go!” Oops! Thanks for saving me. LOL
mjscreative says
I just saw this in the news and thought it was pretty amazing, what a lovely sweet girl this is:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/02/mariah-slick-down-syndrome-homecoming-queen_n_991098.html?ref=fb&src=sp&comm_ref=false#sb=1496714,b=facebook
Made me think of Nella instantly. 🙂
Win says
I wish I could walk with you guys!
Lainey is off the charts adorable in her soccer uniform, and I can’t help but laugh at them just standing there. Too cute.
Nellbell-Looovvvvve youuuuuu. Looking forward to making a donation soon.
Thank you, as always, for sharing.
Mom Fashion World says
Beautiful photos!
http://www.momfashionworld.com/
Sarah RDH says
Wait ’til sister gets her first goal!!
This is my sons first year playing soccer also, he got his first goal 2 weekends ago- GAME WINNING, LAST SECONDS OF THE GAME!!! Talk about a thriller! (No, they don’t keep score, but you know all the parents do. Duh.)
And to think, I had to coax him out there too! But I think it gave him some confidence, and he’s been ready to go ever since!
p.s.- I get the crying. I cried in the town parade 2 weeks ago, when all the pageant girls rode by on convertables…just thinking, someday, my Brynn will be perched up there…
Alaythea says
The picture of Nella looking at herself in the heart shape mirror made my heart melt and my lips smile! I just want to squish her she is so adorable!
Erikita says
The girls in summer clothing and you in gray winter boots…doesn’t make sense? Poor Nella and her super uncomfortable stroller..those things are so cheaply made and uncomfortable to babies…you’d think Nella deserves something more comfy to ride in and something more sturdy for you to push around.
Katie says
I spent my Sunday at the Toledo, Ohio Buddy Walk in honor of a little boy named Kaiden, who is simply adorable. It was a beautiful, sunny, not-too-hot-not-too-cold day and I felt so blessed to be there. May your Buddy Walk be just as fantastic 🙂
Roksalanna says
Love the pictures of the three of you with Latte!
Great job on the soccer field Lainey!
xo
e. Xx says
Oh my! What a fabulous water park that is!!
songskatesang says
Happy Monday to you to, Kelle
CoyGirl says
Sometimes when I’m running errands or just doing something normal with my sister, we say things like, “Kelle would totally love this.” or “Kelle would say that is dreamy and enchanting.” or “Kelle would definitely take a photo of that.”
One day my mom was like, “Kelle who!?”
We were like, “Just a friend of ours, Mom… you don’t know her.”
🙂
Kat says
I am going to quote you on fb today, because I think you truly “get” how the unordinary everydays can hold the best moments.
You make me look at life differently, even in amongst the trying days with 4 little ones, so thanks!
Mandie says
Excellent boots. I think I will pretend fall actually comes to Arizona and buy some rocking new boots. Yes…good plan.
dig this chick says
How darling are you by your front door with your girls? Very.
Love the photo of Lainey and her pal checking it all out. Love your feverish fallness. Thinking of you tonight as I made peach butter! Remember last year?! Ah. Soon.
Buddy Walk! Second one. Amazing, you are, mama.
dig this chick says
Also, love Melina’s comment.
Melissa says
Kelle, I was always hanging in the back during my (brief) soccer days, picking daisies and making bracelets out of them, while my dad yelled from the sidelines and ogled with a video camera. And it’s all good!
Love these photos– we have been loving the shift into fall, too. It really seemed to happen for us the the California bay area this weekend. . .my favorite season.
Here’s to raising awareness and to your tireless quest for good!
Anna says
As you are welcoming in the cooler breezes of autumn, here in the sourthern hemisphere we are clamouring for the warmer breezes of summer! We had our first taste of it today – at the beach with two little boys in their nappies and knickers playing in the water.
Thanks for your blog and your inspirational words and images.
Jannice says
We’re supposed to get some cooler weather this week! There were thunderstorms here in the desert today!! Love it!! I’m working on a pom pom fall wreath! Such a wonderful time of year!!
Ashley @ The Hillside Home says
kelle, you inspire me so much. i was reading this post before i walked up to bed… and i decided to stay up instead. i kept your blog open and played “chicago” over and over and again in this quiet house and wrote two long overdue letters to my kids.
what a great hour this has been.
…thanks. 🙂
Kiwi Nomad 2008 says
Oh dear this brings back a few memories….. My sister took my niece to her first soccer experience about seven years ago. But oopppss, when my sister was helping her reluctant little one join in, two balls came along underneath her, but she only saw one. She jumped and landed on the two. And broke her leg really badly! My niece has barely kicked a ball since and she was already quite skilful before!
Rebekah says
Love, love, LOVE that picture of Nella’s (o.t or p.t?) Lifting her in the air. So sweet.
Love the red bows in Lainey’s hair as she plays soccer too 🙂
Gemma Olivia says
love your pics kelle, they’re always so beautiful and full of live!
kisses
Lindsey says
Oh my word, I cracked up at the picture of Nella and Lainey sitting in the chairs on the sidelines! Priceless 🙂
Lainey is such a doll, I think she looks just like you. And that Nella, she’s so pretty, growing fast!
My Secret Rooms says
Ooops there, good thing I decided to just take a quick lunch break by the computer – I had forgotten that I had a sweet post to enjoy!
Go figure, I never forgot this before 😮 (too much to do apparently)
And it delivered.
I feel connected to the entire planet again and I am reminded that there’s sun, happiness and love out there 🙂
So, you’ve enjoyed a souvenire from us in the North? Glad to oblige!!
Soccer too? From up north, hence.
Good thing that we can offer something back.
I hope you have a marvelous day, you sure do deserve it!
/A
Jen says
Love that nella is sleeping in the stroller! 🙂
Annie says
Love the header – I’m excited to visit our local pumpkin patch this weekend.
Amy says
Beautiful pictures! Just wanted you to know that I’m sitting here on a Tuesday cold dreary morning trying to drum up the energy to clean and your music started playing, I jumped up and started dancing around my kitchen island to dawes and said, okay, i’m leaving this on and I WILL clean up my kitchen! 🙂 Keep the music coming! as well as everything else of course.
Kelly says
Kelle…
You have absolutely b.e.a.u.t.i.f.u.l children. I wish I had the creativity and eye you do for photography. Your capture of everyday life is amazing.
Janis Maz says
Here in the Maritimes the children’s soccer league is sponsored by Tim Hortons, which is Canada most favourite coffee place. The kidlets all get Timbits jerseys to wear and when they go into the local Timmies they lift up the hem of their jersey and it says something like, “I just played soccer and I am thirsty.” The kids all get a free drink and a Timbit (doughnut hole) from the store. It is the cutest darn thing I’ve ever seen!
Evelyn Louise says
So I am not crafty AT ALL, but I *think* I can make that Halloween Garland. Heading to Walmart’s craft section today… wish me luck.
That Nella is just the most adorable little one. And Lainey on the soccer field might be the cutest thing I’ve ever seen… well, Nella asleep in the Target card is a close second.
Happy Fall!
jennjilldesigns says
What a fun post! It looks like you had the weekend from heaven. The weather is turning decidedly cold here in Ohio, and I can’t wait for the leaves to turn. I’m right there with you on the love of fall. 🙂
Molly says
Isn’t it comical what becomes fun to us moms? Suddenly a drink at a bar seems trivial and a day at the park seems like the most fun we’ve ever had. That elusive perfect day. The ones we were always reaching for in our younger years but could never grasp.
I sat amazed last year at all the money raised in Nella and others’ honor. I will definitely be donating. Nella’s strength and your resilience are an inspiration to me. Especially when I’m having such a hard time with life lately. Wondering what this whole living thing is all about. Your posts help bring it to life.
meghory says
This really hits home for me this very week. Having a friend who’s father has just been diagnosed with an advanced life threatening illness has inspired me to enjoy every waking moment with my husband and 2 year old little girl. We went and flew kites on Sunday’s beautiful afternoon just because. I say we need to find wonder in the mundane and perfection in the ordinary! You did just that!
Summit of Glory says
p.s. Love love love the new blog header. super sweet! xo
Shannon says
Absolutely beautiful photos!
Thalita Dol says
I could repeat your words as they were my own: ” I am the girl who dreamed of these things when I was twelve.”
indeed! when I look at my daughter running in the living room I have a smile on my heart, thinking about the many many times I dreamed about her… She is here! She is here! My dream came true. I’m so blessed!
hugs from Brazil!
Kerry says
Big bro pictures is the BEST. Every now and again you post a photo that makes me say “OH!” outloud, that was one!
6512 and growing says
Love your new header.
And also, you crack me up the way you’re always trying to find seasons in Florida.
XO
K_Fitz says
I had to laugh about the bathtub toys. I have a little one who will be 4 in December and the foam letters are a big hit right now. We call it Bathtub Scrabble. K keeps putting up combinations asking “what does this say?” and we make up the sounds. However, I thought it would be funny if we spelt “FART” and that resulted lots of laughter… We had Fart, Old Fart and it’s the big focus now in the tub… “Mama, spell FART bahahahaah” and we seek out the letters. 🙂 Sometimes you just have to throw caution to the wind and just go for it.
Thanks for adding new songs to your play list. I actually listen to the playlist nearly everday while at work. 🙂 Who needs Pandora (well, I do) when I listen to Enjoying the Small Things Playlist. I’ve discovered some wonderful new artists/songs and I’m excited you’ve added Pumped up Kicks…
Fall Freak Flags – Love it. Got mine itching to get out and wave freely in the soft breeze.
Megan C says
I made that same light strand with halloween fabric last week from the idea on Pinterest too! I love the craftiness found on that website. So fun!
Jennifer says
I love all your soccer pictures. My 5 year old started soccer this year, too. It’s pretty funny to watch all the little ones running around chasing the ball.
Happy to hear the background music playing again on your blog! 🙂
mamgof5 says
Oh I have to admit my eyeys were teary after reading about your little star soccer player thinking there were to many boys. SO cute. That always makes you realize just how young and precious they are. They are so sweet and the two of them holding hands on the field. So Sweet.
Brittany says
The picture of the girls on the field and your description had me laughing. Great photos and great post!
Rojas Family says
‘It was all I could do to refrain myself from running through the streets, twirling in my pajamas, singing “The hills are alive.”‘
This had me laughing out loud. I didn’t adventure outside until around 12, but those were my exact feelings. I literally stopped in my tracks and sucked in my breath. I couldn’t believe Florida had delivered a cool Oct. 1.
I have been so in love with this weather. What a great way to truly start Fall. I just hope it comes to visit us often and maybe even stick around awhile.
E Uk says
I’ve been reading for a while now and have thought about commenting many times but this is the first.
I also have two daughters. The eldest is six and the youngest is just two months younger than Nella. Nella reminds me so so much of my own baby. The same wispy blonde hair (I’m yet to get pigtails!), wide knowing blue eyes and a love of her baby doll. She has done everything much later than her big sister and has not been walking long (No reason for this, they are just different).
I just wanted to let you know that your message does get through, your lovely words and pictures have changed my perception. When I look at your photographs of Nella, I don’t see a child with DS but a conventionally beautiful little girl who looks and behaves so much like my own. I don’t look at your family and feel sorry for you, I think how lucky you are in the same way that I feel lucky. I hope in turn I can use what you and your family have taught me to see others who are labelled as ‘different’ by society in the same way.
Ps I wish we could join you on your walk but we are from the UK!
Kelle says
E UK. I knew I loved the Brits and this confirms it. Thank you so much for such kind words that you expressed so beautifully. This is such a heartfelt compliment, and it means something. So thank you.
savannahcarson says
oh how precious your children are! i remember back to my first soccer game many years ago!
Adgirl says
What a great post. I need to remember what you said here when all three of my kids are screaming. Your attitude of gratitude is awesome.
jessica.cagle311 says
I love LOVE love your blog. It is just my style… finding the positive in a crazy & busy world we live in. I can sit after my little one has gone to bed and soak in your beautiful words that inspire me to keep writing because it helps document all the moments I want to remember long after they’ve happened <3
jessica.cagle311 says
I love LOVE love your blog. It is just my style… finding the positive in a crazy & busy world we live in. I can sit after my little one has gone to bed and soak in your beautiful words that inspire me to keep writing because it helps document all the moments I want to remember long after they’ve happened <3
cousin Cindy says
I just want you to know that I look forward, everyday, to checking your blog. I think I found you right after Nella was born. Your story totally captivated me and I keep coming back for more. I chose to comment today, because like you, I looooove Fall! You are so fun. Your children are blessed to have you for their mom. They are both precious. Lainey looks like you! Nella just makes my heart smile. Enjoy your day and keep blogging. Cindy
Mad Science says
You are such a wonderful mother to your girls. It gives me something to aspire to, as I all too often fall short. Your blog is always an inspiration for me to improve my attitude about being a somewhat reluctant WAHM and at least try to enjoy these days. Thank you.
Stephanie says
YAY! we will also be doing the Buddy Walk this weekend in Broward. This is going to be our first year, and hopefully we will be doing it every year. Your blog is so inspiring to me. I cant wait for the 13 month old to be on the verge of the first steps. We just recently starting sitting on our own. Best feeling in the world. Thank you again for your wonderful stories.