My day today can best be expressed by a scene played out by Giselle, Nella’s Doll.
Act II, Giselle’s Picture Frame Demise, Scene I:
Why is it so funny when I find dolls in compromising positions, dolls without heads, dolls with bodies facing the opposite way as their heads, or dolls whose hair has been recentently butchered by a pair of kindergarden Fiskars?
The latter happened around 10:00 this morning, the evidence of blond synthetic curls strewn across the 6-foot span from Lainey’s bed to the hallway. When I found her, guilty, holding the butchered doll head in her hand, I wanted to tell her she needs to ask me before ever taking scissors to anything in our house again. But instead, I found myself so completely impressed by her shearing skills, I gasped. Seriously, Sister can cut hair. A little mousse and some hairspray, some skinny jeans and a rocker tee and I’d so walk out the door with that cut. Joan Jett, baby.
In my head, I high-fived her and booked an appointment for my next trim. And then I told her that despite her mad scissor skills, she needs to ask me before ever taking scissors to anything in our house again.
Today, it was–well, long. Nella’s still not herself, and Lainey was feeling very experimental in the making-art-in-the-home arena. And by art, I mean messes. My patience was thin–present but spotty on delivery. I had work to do, Nella wanted to be held all day, there were messes, there were tears, there was the constant motion of one step forward and three steps back.
I did what I know best. If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em, so I made messes with my kids.
Enter Craftastic Monday mantle art. We don’t have the best mantle in terms of elegance and architecture, but we do have a fireplace in Florida and for that, I’m happy. I’ve had the same display for a few years now, and I wanted something more colorful, maybe even a little kitschy this year. I found a tiny picture in the Garnet Hill catalogue the other night, of a snowman collage that inspired me. I happened to have an old frame with an ugly store bought picture in it, so we flipped the picture over, painted the mat board black, and Lainey helped me create a little snowman out of cotton batting, felt, buttons and sticks (for arms).
We added three small terra cotta pots (painted) and three Styrofoam floral cones which we covered with thick white yarn and buttons.
The result: something more fun and colorful for our mantle. Still needs some kind of scalloped garland, but for now it will do.
*****
My favorite weekend moments?
Craft Bazaar. Don’t get too excited. My friend had this idea that the Christmas craft bazaars she frequented with her mom as a child could be found down here. So she searched the papers, asked some friends and eventually practically crashed her car to read a roadside sign announcing a local craft bazaar. We came. We saw.
And I have to say, it wasn’t so bad. While perhaps not as craftastic as the midwestern barn-raising events of her past, a local church delivered just fine. My scores? A vintage red velvet romper for Nella–for a boy but nothing a Peter Pan collar, some white tights and black patent leather Mary Janes can’t fix–and a beautiful embroidered itty bitty tablecloth, just the size I was looking for to cover Lainey’s little table for Thanksgiving dinner. And matching napkins, to boot. Thank you, Craft Bazaar.
Farmer’s Market. I don’t know what took me so long to check it out. It’s literally up the street but, like similar disappointments comparing Midwestern past times with our not-so-hot representations, I didn’t think I’d be impressed. I was wrong.
And I’ve got some handmade soap-on-a-roap and a fragrant bundle of fresh basil to prove it.
Outdoor Fire. Beside the crackle and glow of an outdoor fire Saturday night, we roasted marshmallows and kissed on our babies.
It was a little bit wonderful.
*****
And today? It had its shining moments as well.
Like walking in to find my girls…”making stuff,” as Lainey says.
Or watching Nella try on my shoes.
I’ll save my “this day blows” for the times it’s really true.
Besides, that photo of Giselle and the picture frame? She didn’t really die. She was just being dramatic.
*****
Giveaway Winners:
Comment #110, songskatesang: I am so sorry that she is sick… she and I would be good company right now. I have a sore throat and tired body that isn’t quite gone yet, but it makes me slow down and gives me time to read about my lovely bloggy friends. Hugs to you sweet Nella. Feel better soon! And oh Lainey, Nella is so blessed that you sing to her. What a wonderful and perfect big sister.
Comment #31, Elise: I envy your fireplace, and love Lainey’s yellow hat!
Congratulations! Please e-mail your contact info to kellehampton@comcast.net, and you’ll be Arbonne shopping soon!
*****
Mamalode returns this month in sponsorship. If you haven’t been acquainted yet–Friends, meet Mamalode; Mamalode, meet Friends. There. You’ve been introduced. And, if we weren’t in Blogland, Mamalode would offer you a seat, pour you a drink and in no time you’d feel at home…inspired. Because that’s how Mamalode is. Yes, a subscription to this thought-provoking publication would be a great holiday gift (check it out!). You can also like Mamalode on Facebook and follow them on line every day for free–inspiring stories, meaty essays, and truths that will validate and empower your motherhood journey. One new “liker” will be winning a free year’s subscription to Mamalode and a back issue with a familiar little face on the cover (winner announced in Wednesday’s post).
Like ’em, and share the love.
*****
Act III, The Long Day Ends, Scene 4:
Line-dried sheets, open windows, sleepy girls…Good night.
I’ll be back tomorrow with a Hallmark sponsored post.
Patti says
I was JUST about to email you and say WHERE ARE YOU? It’s Mon night and you still haven’t posted:) Glad to see Nella is feeling better!
Patti says
oooh, commented before reading- hope Nella is totally herself soon. lol about the butchered barbie. I think I see a career in Lainey’s future there…
Molly says
Those little trees are so cute. Ya know, I’m kind of scared of myself. I’ve recently started crafting. If you knew me then you would know this is cause for concern. You think Lainey shouldn’t use scissors? Yeah, I probably shouldn’t be trusted either. But I’m trying and I guess that’s what counts, right?
Hope Nella feels better soon.
Sandy says
We have had many a Barbie with the rocker hair cut too. ๐
Ani says
Your mantle is very whimsical! The girls look lovely, as always. Have a happy week!
The Annessa Family says
Love the mantle! And so jealous you can still have popcycles outside!
Brooke
http://www.TheAnnessaFamily.blogspot.com
Julie says
Hope sweet girl gets to feeling better soon.
http://kozeefamily.blogspot.com/
Team Lando says
Love the cant beat em, join em. And the doll pic had me cracking up! But mostly, you should know that my hands are stained in chalkboard paint, because it’s a craftastic day here, too!
Heather says
Just be glad it was Barbie with the new do and not Lainey. My little kindergarten angel gave herself side-swept bangs this year. I wanted to be angry, but she did a fabulous job–apparently she even used a comb as a guide. She still has them, and now I do, too! Maybe our girls can open a salon some day.
CandidCollections says
Love those little trees on your mantle…so cute. And…I had “one of those days” today, too ๐
Katy says
Love the craft ideas! Sorry Nella isn’t feeling 100% yet.
I remember cutting my own hair with scissors when I was little…my mom looked at me with a horrified look on her face lol
Cheryl says
Love the mantle, I think I will be making a trip to the craft store. Hope Nella is feeling better soon.
maggie says
My husband scared the snot out of my little girl tonight while playing hide and seek. She said she never wanted to play hide and seek again…reminded me of your monkey mask post a while back. And that…….was just the icing on the cake of a day that sounded just like yours.
Coffee Mama A-J :) says
I absolutely love the craft you girls did today! Also, I love the one with the chalkboard paint posted not too long ago. Can you give me some direction on what kind of frames you bought? They look solid, like there is no glass for a picture. Is that correct?
Katie says
your posts, your kids, your photography, and you are so inspiring. I so enjoy reading what you right, you never fail to make me laugh. keep it up (:
me says
How big is that Barbie? The hand on it holding it appears to be the same size as Barbies hand!! Great post as always.
Jenel says
Lainey and Nella get me every time.. they are so adorable.
I have this stuffed animal I have slept with forever and I always get a kick outta when I find him in funny positions or in certain spots, I’ve made up little scenarios too ๐
God Bless Kelle!!
Amber says
I have been feeling the urge to start crafting and those little trees have inspired me even more! I have always been in love with the holidays- and this year I have my beautiful daughter (6 months old this weekend….sigh) to share them with- I am so excited!
Thanks for the lovely post- reminding me that even my tough days really aren’t that bad. We are blessed.
Amber
http://carrieradventures.blogspot.com/
Andrea says
I love the yarn trees! perhaps that is something I can do with all the white yarn I have (which I had huge intentions of knitting into something… 2 years ago…)
Charlotte @ Cowgirl Clippings says
Good to know I’m not the only one that feels like she is following a stream of messes around the house. I should try your “can’t beat ’em, join ’em” strategy.
Paige says
I subscribe to Mamalode and it is great! I have the one with Nella on the cover that I will keep forever!
Abby says
Okie-doke, I’m 100% stealing those little trees. Too adorable! Please let us know when Lainey’s salon officially opens. I knew she did nails, but it’s a nice surprise that she’s also a talented hairdresser. I’m glad Nella’s on the upswing, too, she’s too cute to be sick.
See you tomorrow, I love your Hallmark posts.
Fresh Mommy says
Liking Mamalode on FB… and loving you and your beautiful family all the more!! I started out my day with crying… and made the purposeful decision to do something spontaneous with my family and love it all. ๐
~Tabitha
(A northern friend now living on the gulf!)
Kristen says
This comment has been removed by the author.
Carrie Serna says
I am SO making those adorable yarn trees this weekend with my littles! CUTE CUTE CUTE! Your positive attitude always gives me a reality check/boost…thanks!
Kristen says
I’d like to book my nest haircut with Lainey! I love the Christmas trees for the mantel. I need to make those with my daughter! I liked mamalode on fb.
Danyiel says
I needed this, it was a bit of a rough day here. We got through it and now mama is relaxing and listening to the thunderstorm.
The little trees are super cute.
Happiness is... says
Those trees are fan-damn-tastic! Love how you put Garnet Hill to action in a very affordable manner! Kudos. (Really I thought you were going to try to make their amazing mitten garland!)
I already like Mamalode and would love a subscription.
-Jennifer
P.S. I have memories of cutting my Betsy Doll’s curly hair off of one side with my lefty scissors and discretely shoved the evidence under the big yellow chair. Like my mother wouldn’t notice the giant hair bunny or the fact Betsy was half bald.
Simply B says
Hahaha, my family STILL loves to retell the story of the time I chopped off all of Barbie’s hair to “make a Ken” for me and my sisters to play with. Needless to say, my efforts fell short. Lainey’s skills are incredibly impressive!
Natalie says
So in love with your mantel display. Thanks for the inspiration and the insight, as always! Hope your tomorrow is even better.
kristinab says
Love the craft idea. Here is one that you may like for your girls. http://www.themotherhuddle.com/tutorial-felt-cut-out-cookies-with-frosting/
Alicia says
way to turn that frown upsidedown, sister ๐ and i LOVE your little mantle…craftastic INDEED!!
our clan says
Your yarn Christmas trees rock!! I think that it must of been in the water today because I had the same day!! I wished for 4 arms today to hold each of my boys because they didn’t like that Mommy had only one arm to give each. But I so agree with you if you can’t beat them join them!!! Life runs so much more smoothly.
IRWSMom says
Love Love Love the trees! How cool are they!? Forget Martha Stewart… I look forward to your Craftastic Days ๐ Have a great rest of your week~
Jen says
I have a “kelle hampton inspired” pinterest board. I love the craftasticness of your trees and snowman! It is going on the board asap. ๐
megsplegs says
love the barbie haircut! i remember giving a similar treatment to my strawberry shortcake doll when i was around lainey’s age…it’s like a rite of passage. ๐
LOVE mamalode and have been following mamadig’s monday posts for awhile. would love a subscription too!
xo,
megs
Remembering Alexander says
I liked Mamalode on FB, hope I win.
I too got into the scissors at the same age (or I should say my girlfriend did) because at the end of the day, I was the one with the boy’s hair cut.
I got in touch with her recently and we laughed about it.
Love is all you need says
Love the crafts! We are big crafters here, especially when we are feeling the need to declare our holiday lovin…
April Vernon says
I love the mantle decorations!! Hope tomorrow is even better for ya. I had one of those days, too. Isn’t it great having little to bring out the good in yukky days?!
Hazel says
So first off I have to admit to barbie hair cuts as a child. But I don’t think mine were anywhere near as proficient as Lainey. Funniest thing was that my sister and I cut the hair short on one of our barbies so that she could be the “bad” barbie in our imaginary games, ironic that I now sport short hair?
Loving your mantle piece display in particular the trays. Now I want a mantle just to put something on one. Hmmm might have to do with our retro sideboards.
Looks like a perfect weekend to me.
Lastly I love the pic of Lainey and Nella “making stuff”.
So cute.
Sharmaine says
i LOVE your crafts! Those trees are adorable!
Also, if you have time, I wanted to ask.. where did you get the wood frame you used for the chalkboard craft??
Dragulska.com says
I love the craft you made wit your girl. I’m inspired to do something with my kids now! Thanks! Oh, had a similar kind of day today;motherhood rocks! xoxo
Shannon says
Kelle, thank you for being positive. I use ” this day blows” far too often on days that also had some pretty flippin awesome moments too. Love the pics of the title playing together
Babs says
Sweet picture of Nella trying on your shoes–adorable shoes! She looks a bit better than in your last post. Hope so! LOVE the photo of the girls snuggling!
Wendy says
Oh my, I love Giselle & her dramatic flair! I make stories up about inanimate objects as well… nice to know I’m not alone! ha ha ๐ Great post! Love the popsicle photos, too.
Comfypjs says
WHOA! Be thrilled she cut Barbie’s hair and not her own or Nella’s. I did that to my brother as a child right before the photographer showed up. It wasn’t pretty…
Rebekah says
Lainey totally rocks those scissors! Praying for sweet Nella to get feeling better. Wish the Farmer’s market was still open around here– apparently it’s too cold now. Enjoy your Fl weather!
Rebekah
Jessica McAllister says
Completely random, but I am madly in love with your red shoes that Nella was trying on. ๐
Tamara says
I liked Mamalode on fb. Loved the yarn trees. Enjoy reading your blog. Tamara
mommystoes says
I love those christmas trees. I may even try my hand at them!
Your baby girls are gorgeous as always. ๐
MommysToes.wordpress.com
Michelle says
Love the yarn trees… I might have to steal that one ๐
Crystal says
Headed to a local Christmas bazaar this weekend! I’m sure I’ll find some treasures. ๐
sarah says
I feel ya. My 2 year old said to me this afternoon, “Mommy, don’t clean today; clean tomorrow. Hold me right now.” seriously? How am I supposed to get anything done with his cherub face saying that? And it didn’t hurt that he and big brother were arguing in the bath tub tonight over Mommy being THEIR princess. Why yes, my loves, I am princess to you both. ๐
I’m feeling a girls night out or steamy hot date night is in order though once sweet Nella feels better. ๐
And one more thing….who named the doll ‘Giselle’?
La Wood says
Love those Christmas trees ๐
stephanie says
i like ’em! and i decided today, with a baby due in t-28 days, that the christmas decos are going to be arriving pre-thanksgiving in our house (if i want to get them up at all…). so glad to see other people who are embracing the early arrival of the christmas season!
jnana says
I love it when kids try their mommies’ shoes! Adorable!
Team Lando says
Kelle, hold up. I read this on my phone, but just went back to look at the photos again. Lainey is GOOD. I need a haircut, too. Does she travel?
Also, my husband will not let me GET THE DECORATIONS DOWN yet. Not decorate, I know better (did it last year when he was gone before thanksgiving. Cause I’m sneaky.) But this year, they must remain in the attic! Brett’s a good guy!
Molly Minks says
I found your blog on Babble’s top 50 mom blogs. That is quite a distinction, Congrats!I love your article. I hope you love my blog at http://www.thecribhub.com where we have a great crib sale.
YeamieWaffles says
Great post as always! You’re such an excellent mother and parent, it’s really inspiring!
Chadah says
liked Mamalode, tx for the link! And as always, love your blog!
Amy Cappelli says
Love the cone trees. What a great idea!
The picture of the girls at the end of the post is so sweet.
And, the writing featured in Mamalode is amazing. It is so refreshing to read the various perspectives the magazine and the blog offers. I’m looking forward to the new issue.
Fifty-two pairs in 2010 says
Lainey’s trees are so cute! Her crafting is really improving!
Nf1andprek-whisper says
popsicles.. in November.. Fun…
Love your nighttime pictures… I am still planning on doing this one of these days…
My Secret Rooms says
Not all days can be the best or even good… I think you made it as good as possible!
I’ve had my share of not-at-all-the-best days and nowadays enjoy better ones!
I envy your mantle! I live way up north and I lack one. it’s an outrage!!!
Have a great week!
GraceesMommy says
Love the trees. I made something like this years ago but used green yarn..I stinking love the white!! Think I may have to use this as an art project for homeschooling.
It is so funny for me to see your girls in summer jumpers when we are bundled up in flannel jammies and wool coats! ♥
Noan says
I loved this post! Your mantle looks great. Hope Nella is completely over her ear infections very soon.
Mrs.McJeep says
I have to say, whenever I’m having a bad day with my boys, I come read your blog. You are so positive, thank you for trying to stay positive, if not for yourself and your family….for others out there who need a little boost sometimes!
Kelly says
I love those yarn and button xmas trees! So cute
J, T and Theo B. says
you need to write a blog every single morning so i have something uplifting to read every single morning! ๐ i am sending my delightful friend Betsy of Darden’s Delights your way–her sweet daughter has magic chromosomes too and Betsy and her husband have started a venture to give back in honor of Darden. And the pies are to die for, too…cheers!
Life with Kaishon says
The girls are so cute : )
Emily says
The past week has been “one step forward, three steps back” (and very little patience left in Momma). I’m praying it ends soon. And really glad to hear you have those days too. ๐
byHisGrace4HisGlory says
I know you receive lots of comments, but I’ll leave one anyway. I just recently moved from NY to VA, and I’m having a really hard time. I understand the MI to FL feelings that I have seen you post about. But, I read your blog and it makes me happy. You are such a great life-teller. Thanks for taking the time to document it all!
Chantell says
I see you have so many comments to read! So I hope you don’t mind one more…Just want to say how much I truly enjoy your blog, and how adorable your girls are! You write so well ~ I can see why you have attracted so many others…Looking forward to reading more! Thankyou for sharing :o)
Farmgirl Paints says
I had no idea when I lived in the Midwest that that’s where all the good stuff was at! Now I’m on the East Coast and I’m dying to find some good “junk”, some charm. Hate to say it, but they just don’t get the barn stuff. Who knew?? Great pics as always friend. Glad the farmer’s market wasn’t disappointing.
Angela says
Yay! I am so glad that Nella is feeling better! And I love your Craftasticness! ๐ Those yarn trees are super cute! What inspired you to do a drying line?
Heidi says
xoxo
love the clothesline. love love. nella trying on shoes!!! get your ass over here and lets make some pies, like now. i’ll buy the stuff for pumpkin, you get stuff for another kind and we will split.
Talia says
Your mantle is darling and the first picture cracked me up. I laughed out loud.
Your girls are precious. Enjoy every second.
Meagan Kenney says
My brother had that red velvet romper! I’m not kidding, the EXACT SAME one! My mom and dad still have the Olan Mills portraits of us hanging in their bedroom with him wearing it. He had on a white peter pan collar shirt and black and white saddle shoes. I would never think to put a girl in it…genius! Except my girls are too old to fit in it now, but if I ever have another one, you betcha I’ll be dressing her in it with tights and mary janes!
PS-Your red flats with the bows are DARLING!
Tiffani Talbott says
Reading about Lainey cutting that doll’s hair made me remember when I took scissors to my own hair as a child because I couldn’t get a hair tie out on my own. LOL. My mother was less than pleased and I ended up with a VERY short cut to even it all out. Never did that again ๐ Thank you for your constant reminders to enjoy all that life gives us and I hope Nella feels 100% soon. Have a great day!
Dawn says
I love how Lainey is just like you with liking crafts. I hope Nella gets to feeling better soon. & the picture of Lainey with the sucker in this post looks so much like you Kelle!!
Chris & Marina & Christina Tronrud says
Kelle –
I stumbled upon your blog by accident and have become hopelessly addicted. You inspire me. Encourage me. Challenge me. Make me laugh. Make me cry. You make me want to create. You put into words how I feel when I hold my precious little daughter. Your photography skills are kick-ass. I’ve been reading for a while, but never commented (I enjoy stalking people through blogs and facebook, but, really, what’s the point of freaking them out and letting them know that? ๐ ) But today’s post was so perfect for me. Thank you for reminding me that even imperfect days contribute to make a perfect life. I needed to hear someone else say that. I needed to know that someone else had a crappy day and decided to bless that perfectly imperfect day. Thanks again! Please never stop writing or taking pictures.
-Marina from Michigan ๐
Kelly Cach says
Kelle!!!! (I’m squealing)
I SO thought of you this weekend! We had our annual local craft fair, and I have to say, it’s rather outstanding for these two little towns that really function as one! (Lewiston, Idaho & Clarkston, Washington). Check out my newest FB picture. I scored some little magnets for 50 cents a piece made out of old costume jewelry….the kind of clip on earrings I used to play dress up with from my Grandma’s stash! I’ll be making some out of buttons….also from Grandma’s collection! Seriously, such a cute and inexpensive little gift! (just be sure and use the heavy duty magnets if you want them to actually hold stuff…but so cute as decor, too ๐
Nella will be the cutest little Santa helper the North Pole has ever seen in her red romper…big score!
And my boys will thank you for your craft ideas! Going to JoAnn’s today to find some styrofoam trees! I love that my boys love crafts. They don’t think it’s girly. They’re sweet like that ๐
Hugs for health! We have the crusties here, too ๐
Kelly
Leslie E says
I love how Lainey is always so careful when doing crafts with you. My kids would be chalk ready if I let them loose with paint. (Case in point: I have a pic of my 3 year old wearing “mad scientist gloves”, or so it seems. He painted bot arms, from finger tips to above his elbows with black paint. I couldn’t do anything but laugh!
bamoorman says
Oh dear…..those shoes Nella was trying on of yours are absolutely amazing! Where are they from? Your craft idea is beautiful too! I know people that would pay so much for that and yet you, being your creative little self (which I secretly envy and wish to steal just .00001% of since it’s better than my negative amount), did it all by yourself. I love your crafts! I love your pictures! I love your kids!
Renee says
Sister can definitely cut some hair!! I’m very impressed! Unsupervised cutting is now allowed in our house either. Us mom’s are so boring in that area.
Glad to hear you got out on some weekend adventures. Sounds like they were fun! I love the jumper you found for Nella…can’t wait to see a picture of her in it! ๐
Hope your Tuesday is going better than your Monday did! ๐
melissa says
LOVE this post! Especially showing how you take an upsetting day and turn it into one that works. Love you!
(Really like those Christmas trees too…thank you.)
Kulio says
Once we were in the yard and somebody screamed – I looked up to see Kara’s Little Mermaid doll had dropped out of the tree – and it looked like that scary doll from Toy Story except worse. A squirrel had taken it up there and ravaged it. Haha, I wish I would have kept it or taken a picture it was so sad/funny with the little stumps of red hair sticking out. Another time Buddy chewed the legs off one of Beth’s Barbies but they kept playing with it and just said it had been a victim of a shark attack. Poor Giselle ๐
Mom Fashion World says
Good to hear the lil’ princess is feeling better.
I adore your photos, as always.
Ceciley2007 says
Love the trees!! Girl, I don’t know how you do it with a sick little one..:( When my kids are sick, I am GOOD FOR NOTHING TOO!! Hope Nella is 100% very soon, and I agree Lainey has some serious cosmetology in her future.. U GO GIRL!! ๐
genderist says
The fire pic with Dad and Laine roasting marshmallows: perfect.
zarinagirl says
This is really silly but: you acutally call scissors Fiskars?? I did not realise they were so global! Fiskars are from FInland, and I’m finnish so I’m intrigued. Nice!
Jan says
Kelle: Warning from one mom to another—when the dolls start getting their hair cuts, no matter how well, they look, beware! The kids cutting their own hair WILL BE NEXT and you will not like the diaster that is 4 year old self-cut hair. I learned the hard way!
MeganMR says
LOVE the new mantle art!
Summit of Glory says
oooh….Barbie is lookin’ GOOD! My sister & I used to style our dolls’ hair too….FYI – curling irons are not Barbie’s friend…she must resolve to accept that she cannot have curly hair….Great pictures. Frozen treats in November?? Crazy Florida kids! xoxo
LindyLou4U says
This comment has been removed by the author.
LindyLou4U says
Just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your writing style and for the awesome generosity in the way you share your “life” with all of us! I trust your wee one is on the mend and back to herself. And I’d like to say how pretty your mantel crafts are! Great job and such fun.
Hugs to all,
Linda
Hannah Joy says
Love it. as always.
Kelly@TheAdornedAbode.com says
I don’t have a fireplace or mantel, but I am definitely making those trees to put on a shelf or tabletop!
jessicawhitephotography says
I really hope Nella is feeling better today. It’s amazing how a baby’s cold can linger on and on. Poor girl. ๐ I love all of the crafts you create with Lainey. Your such a creative and inspirational mama. I had to give you mention in my latest blog post as those itty bitty trees are gorgeous and definitely something I would not have though of. You inspire me to see the beauty in the little things. Thanks for keeping it real.
Lisa Coleman Boutilier says
Hopefully tomorrow will bring Nella a feeling better vibe. I love the snowman and trees! I have been inspired by Pinterest and have a long list of holiday crafts to get done, and the snowman and trees now tops that list!
B. Holmes says
The mantel art turned out GREAT, love it! And if Lainey has time I could really use a haircut too…
jenniwaka says
Why didn’t I realize Mamalode would have a facebook page before now?!?! Thanks!
Sarah says
Loved us some crafting too today, thankfully at a playdate where I had help with the clean-up too! We decorated and baked fall cookies (lots of sprinkles!) and made thankful turkeys. Even had some time in the bounce house! According to my just three year old, “that was the funniest playdate ever!” And later, “that playdate was fabulous!” Cherishing the moments!
gabbygrace says
Love love love craftastic times and we have some naked dolls in precarious situations as well around here!! ๐ I just posted to my blog a read I thought you’d enjoy, creative kids and family time, nothing really better than that!
dreamingbigx3@blogspot.com
๐ Grace
teresa says
praying nella is better soon. love the picture of her trying on mama’s pretty red shoes. can just imagine her thinking “and someday I’ll wear these!”
what cute mantle decorations!! great job crafters!! and of course smiling at barbie’s stylish cut. =)
Daytime Stories says
Those trees are so adorable. I wish I had that type of stuff laying around the house. So creative!
Mary says
lOVE the first photo… totally needed that laugh! I wish I had Lainey’s mad scissor skills… my dolls hair didn’t look nearly as fab as hers! xx
p.s. totally missing the Midwest too!
Brittany says
i think all of this is sooooo adorable and cute. wow!
Win says
LOVE the pic of the girls at the end. So simply beautiful. Get better soon Nellbell.
Christine Gottemoller says
Yesterday my preschooler stayed home from school sick. Remembering your post from the night before I decided the trees would be a terrific craft for us. I was in charge of the yarn wrapping and she was on stand-by to cut the yarn. Well she was sitting behind/beside me and I think she was so excited that she just wasn’t paying attention and she cut MY hair. ๐
Louise says
I can sooooo relate. Being an Au Pair in NY was supposed to be my fun year to drop into conversation in later years and here I stand with my amazing little American family. I miss England and family at friends at this time of the year too. But this is home now ๐
ndf says
I love your blog. love love love it. I find that sometimes I don’t read because I am busy, and life is stressful, too many things to do…but I find myself drawn back to it. My fingers go to type something else into the address bar and kellehampton pops up and suddenly I am uplifted and excited by your enthusiasm once again.
Elite Housewares says
Crafting is something I have always loved when I was small, whenever I gets time I gets engaged to crafting. Yet now I am working on hangers.
Hangers
Rojas Family says
Lovin’ the pic of Nella hiding behind the lace curtian. Darling.
DeborahJoy says
it’s so important to create new rituals and celebrations when the old ones aren’t possible or just don’t work any more. And the beauty of having kids is that, as a family, you get to make up new things that, over time, will become the ritual. Sending good wishes for a happy Thanksgiving and sending thanks for another inspiring, humbling post. x