Today, I’m doing something I’ve always wanted to do but never made a priority–I’m going away. Alone. A three day writing retreat away from home. There are things to do here and a number of reasons that make spending three days alone in a hotel not the best idea right now but far more reasons that suggest this is an important investment, not only for my writing but for myself. I am looking forward to some clarity and focus, morning beach meditation and transferring a lot of recent thinking into words. My goal is to write uninhibitedly and inspired. The bonus, of course, is being able to take a bath without Barbies and foam alphabet letters floating in my way.
Our weekend, in review:
Rainy Mornings with Coffee and Fall Inspiration
I smell fall coming. Considering I live in South Florida, that means I have hound dog scent capabilities. I cannot wait to return to crafting and nesting, baking and entertaining. And if I have to hike on foot eight months pregnant up to the Midwest this year, I will. Mama’s going to make it happen. In the meantime, I’ll dream of what harvest display I’ll create at our front entrance this year, how I’ll rearrange the living room to say “Whassup? We’re high on fall,” and just how many gourds I’ll need to create that kitchen table centerpiece.
In the Absence of Lightning
It rained a good part of the weekend which always extends the length of time we spend in pajamas. I’m a pretty good judge of what weather conditions allow for outdoor puddle play but even so, I ask Brett “Is it safe to take the kids outside?” because it strokes his weatherman ego to suggest I need his expert radar-reading advice to give the okay.
We might not be able to find a clean cup in our house, but I’ll be darned if there isn’t a pair of rain boots in every corner. What can I say? It’s my thing. I’m obsessed with wellies.
Fort Making
I had just refolded every single quilt we own and stacked them nicely where they belong. Five minutes later, I walked into this…and could do nothing but smile.
Potty Time
We’re taking it very slowly, but the beginning stages are sweet.
We’re following our method with Lainey (who potty-trained remarkably) which includes following her lead, leaving a potty chair out in the main areas of the house, keeping a potty chair in the back of the car, making a huge deal out of cute underwear, putting her on the potty a trillion times during the day and praising the heck out of successes. We’re in the introduction stage right now, and Lainey is the best little potty cheerleader ever.
Pool Heat Escape
Funny Tea Party
Note to Self: Don’t use real glass with a two-year old. We managed to exit the party, tea set unscathed, but there was a lot of clinking sounds and cement bouncing and “NELLA!!!!!” shouts from the older sister.
We swapped her cup for a banana, and Sister took off all “I’m outta here.”
If she couldn’t have a real tea cup, she figured she’d just run like heck down the sidewalk until we caught her.
Saved by the containment of the push car.
Her spirited energy is contrasted perfectly by her generous affection.
And our weekend has provided a running start to a big week sprint.
P.S. The first trimester flag has been staked. Maybe I struck a victorious Bolt pose to celebrate.
*****
Tea Collection is returning in sponsorship this month, and their new Nordic designs and back-to-school staples might be my favorite Tea collection yet. From now until 8/19, you can shop their “3+1” items and use Code “3PLUS1” to receive a fourth item free with the purchase of three regular priced items. I picked out some of my current favorites this weekend. As always, Tea flawlessly combines comfort, versatility and colorful design to offer unique yet wearable children’s clothing.
From left: Mikko Floral Romper, Naturino Boots, Finn Flora Dress, Polka Dot Knee Socks, Umi Moraine Shoes, Lunefeld Flutter Romper, Mod Stripe Tee, Levi Slim Straight Jeans, PF Flyers, Patagonia Beanie.
*****
Lots of kids and teachers back to school today. I’ll be talking about back-to-school later this week. Cheers to a new school year, and to all the teachers who are returning back…thank you for what you do.
Happy Monday.
Ah – retreat. Happy Monday and congratulations!!!
Love the garbage bag raincoat!
I love everything about this post. You also look amazing in a garbage bag!
http://www.growingupanjwife.com
enjoy that alone retreat, such precious time, something I dream of doing for myself but haven’t got round to since the kids were born, maybe next year.
I live in England and some mornings it is positively autumn like already so I’m dreamin’ of pies and gourds already too … much love x
Love..love …love…for every crappy monday at work– I can come to your post and you make me smile..with what you write and your beautiful kiddo’s…Nella reminds me so much of a younger version of E-V..LOVE her expressions!!
I’m laughing out loud at the sight of Nellas big grin in the car (maybe it’s called something else, but I forgot), and crying some about others pics, as usual. Hope you’ll have some wonderful three days on your own!
OMG…. cutest picture EV-ER….the one with Nella on the potty and big sis helping. =)
Cute tea set.
Enjoy your retreat time.
xo
Dear Kelle,
Enjoy your writing retreat! When my kids went to Nana’s for a week this Summer I resisted the urge to purge my whole house and purged my soul instead. It was wonderful to get all those thoughts that had been burgeoning in my heart written down and documented. Somehow it frees you to welcome life (and your children) back again.
Be prepared to spend at least brief moments flashing to “what are my kiddos doing right now” and “I really miss those guys”.
Wishing you Wellies, Autumn dreams, and lemon zest,
The Prairie Hen in NE
It has been rainy/overcast few days in Illinois. I’ve been loving it and have switched my focus of soaking up summer to thinking about and planning fall fun. Enjoy your 3 days!
Love Nella! She is the cutest.
LOVE LOVE the picture of Nella in the car with her little tongue out! Pure Joy!
I read kids and teachers return to school today. Does this mean you opted not to enroll Lainey and choose to homeschool?
I have always wanted to do a personal getaway! So happy for you -you deserve it!
So much cuteness in this story and the pictures…..from the tea party to the push car. So adorable. Love the one of Nella and Lainey doing the potty thing. And the one of Nella and her Grammy is precious. Such adorable girls.
I am returning to teaching after a three year leave spent home with my kids. I am excited for the school year, I am a little sad about leaving my kids (but we’re all ready for this new chapter), and I am tearing up at the last sentence in your post…”Thank you for what you do.” Than you, for your simple words of appreciation.
I may follow your example soon. If you’re writing…does this mean there will be another book to grace my shelves and share with those I love?
Love the, “Im outta here!” photo. So funny. Enjoy your getaway! I wish I could get a bath, let alone a toy free, baby and toddler-free one 🙂
Can’t wait to hear about school. In the meantime, loving the wellies. 🙂
Love the idea of a writing retreat…ah such bliss! Enjoy!! Great pictures of the rain puddles 🙂
I love the tea party. The bannana clutcher. The boots. Everything.
I hope your days away are brilliant and filled with lots of writing and dreaming.
LOOOOOVE this post. the image of lainey’s reflection in the rain, Nella’s mocs, the the sweet cheerleader! love it all.
Enjoy your 3 days of solitude and writing time! I think it’s something that every Mum dreams off!
I too am dreaming of Autumn! It’s my favorite season xx
Enjoy your time away…It sounds like a much needed retreat.
Kelle, I burst out laughing at the thought of you striking the Bolt pose! Made my day. Here’s hoping your morning sickness lets up soon – I know how exhausting it is to be sick & try to be a wife & mother. Hard stuff!!
I know it’s never easy to step away from daily responsibilities but I’m excited you’ll have a chance to focus and write. I feel like I have so much to say but never get the chance to get it out these days. Enjoy, and just think about the fabulous hugs and kisses awaiting your return! And, as always, your girls are just the cutest!
And happy Monday to you. Enjoy your time alone. Great post, as always. After your end of first trimester bolt post, let’s do some cheers for fall!
Dear Kelle,
You absolutely write from the heart, which is why you are SO loved. Good luck with all life has waiting for you and now. You have a bountiful present and future ahead. You will rock it!
Big hugs from Tejas,
Melissa
PS – from your recent FAQ post… I completely LOVE “If anything, I’ve learned not to let fear and hesitation guide the choices in my life.” Love, love, love it. I owe so much of my moving forward again to you.
Love the beautiful photo of Nella showing her generous affection! Oddly though, the older woman looks very much like my Grandmother (Jean W.)…
Girl, you totally deserve it! I hope you come away feeling refreshed and renewed. I can’t wait to read the benefits of this time away. 🙂
Get ’em, Kelle. You write too beautifully not to take a hot minute off and cultivate it. I look forward to what comes from your writing retreat.
Those photos of Lainey pushing Nella in the push-car? Adorable. I teared up a little…? I did. Also, I wanted to let you know, whenever I meet someone blessed with an extra chromosome, I think of you. And I smile. Because I can only imagine the joy that their family has, thanks to your blog. I want to hug those devoted mamas and sit down and talk to their beautiful children. I can’t help it.
I love all the wellies. Super cute.
what cute rainboots! gorgeous photos, as always. Isn’t playing in the rain so fun?! 🙂
Nella’s smile is infectious! And I love Lainey’s thoughtful look. What precious children!
I love that being on the other side of the world (NZ) I get to wake up to your posts which means I always start those days with a big smile. That photo of Lainey pushing Nella in the cart? My biggest smile yet.
The picture of Lainey’s eyelashes is spectacular. I love reading your blog, and with the first trimester ending, you are on (more) solid ground…and better eating conditions! Enjoy your writing break; I look forward to reading more!
so… Cheers to a new school year and to your daughter!!!
wonderful rainy photos!
Umm yeah, its been soup weather here in Michigan and we’re very grateful for the cool down. Plus, rain! We about did a rain dance of appreciation we’re so dry here!
The infamous tea set…I ended up getting rid of all the breakable tea sets (5 bagillion of them) because a little boy I nannied cut himself and turns out he’s a mega-bleeder (hours later he was still gushing blood!).
Mmmm…I was already contemplating making our annual “Thankful Tree” but this year I want one that is permanent so I need to research options.
Our Autumn (doesn’t Autumn sound much better than Fall?) will include adding 2 children from China and a wee one homegrown…so, I’m expecting LOTS of staying home time!
enjoy your retreat, well deserved! i’m going on a girls weekend to the beach on friday, can’t wait to have a little break from my energetic almost 3 year old!!
Good for you for taking some time for you, your thoughts and your craft. You’re on the cusp of big changes and introspection helps, big time!
Is Lainey going to have a “first day of school” this year? Or will she home school with you? Or something else?
Happy Monday to you too! Enjoy your retreat!
Ahhh, I am jealous–of meditation on the beach, of a bath without foam letters, of assorted wellies adorned with flowers, stripes and dots, but most importantly of three whole, uninterupted days to write. Have a wonderful, productive, relaxing time.
Those buns…then the waves. I seriously am mush. Sweetness in every pic. Been thinking about you today. Hope you are getting a lot done.
Oh, I adore these pics! And I can’t wait to hear what you decided for Lainey and school!
BTW, up here… New to district teachers start NEXT week. Everyone starts the following week. Kids start the day after Labor Day!
Have a wonderful time alone! That is my dream, to be off myself to write. Enjoy every second! As always, beautiful, heart-warming photos. 🙂
That photo of Nella giving a kiss is one of the most beautiful photos I have ever seen. Gorgeous and real.
This is the first time I have commented on your blog. I have been steadily working my way backwards over the past few weeks. Reading everything…something I have noticed…I am slowly starting to see a celebration opportunity in the everyday things. I love the joy you spotlight on the simple pleasure of normal living. A cup of tea. A slice of watermelon. Everything is coming alive to me now and I am really loving it. Also I find myself starting to yearn for COLOUR…Lots of colour. Thank you for that. X
Where did you get Nella’s John Lennon shirt?? I’ve been a huge Beatles fan since I was a kid, so I always grab any tees I can find for my little guy. 🙂
I’m with you on Fall. I smell it too. I even baked pumpkin muffins over the rainy weekend.
Good for you! I dream of taking time…just for me…to follow my passions. Enjoy of every minute. I can’t wait to see your writings.
Sounds like a perfect little getaway for you – I hope you find what you need to, write what you want to, relax, and enjoy that bath without floating letters!
Ahhh, it was with much envy that I read the words ‘writing retreat!’ I would so love a similar experience…to be able to plunk down the words that swim in my head while I am driving to work, sudsing my hair in the shower or during all other Iin between moments of my demanding life as Mom, Wife and Employee. Enjoy your well-deserved days. What a lovely post. (pic of Nella with Lainey coaching her is among my favs.) Could the respite lay the seeds of a second book?
I couldn’t help but notice the “fingers crossed” tattoo in the first picture! I’ve been trying to get pregnant for a year and I just wore my same tattoo (from my OPK) as good luck. Never thought I’d see it on anyone else!
Kelle….it was wonderful meeting you this evening while waiting for our table! You look beautiful as always and you were just as beautiful on the inside! Thank you for taking the time to chat with a complete stranger and making my day! Best of luck this week finding out pink or blue!! All my love…
Meredith Hudec
i hope your writing retreat is peaceful, but duh… it will be 🙂 i would love to have 3 days to myself, ah bliss!
i totally can smell autumn too, like a few days ago! “I have hound dog scent capabilities” <– me too! It’s totally a Midwest living in the south nose thing, right? 😉 xx
Yay for the beginning of second trimester! Hope the sickies get under control soon. Wellies are a must have at our home too. Everything is cuter with boots on. I am dreaming of fall. I want hot cider, soft chunky sweaters, the crisp morning air and the happy burst of sunflowers covering the fields. Until then, we’re soaking up the last bit of summer and pushing through. Have a glorious week!
Lainey needs play clips!
http://www.novanatural.com/toys/set-of-4-play-clips
…and playsilks for both little sweeties…
And that puckering up kiss pic is perfect.
http://www.babycenter.com/0_40-ways-to-entertain-your-kids-while-lying-down_10350158.bc?scid=mbtw_post20m_3w%3A1259&pe=MlV5blFFQnwyMDExMTEwMw
Thought of you when I saw this. You shouldn’t need it the next few days, but maybe once you return home.
Happy writing!!
I couldn’t possibly choose a favorite photo from this post…perhaps a tie between Nella on the potty with Lainey “supervising” and the push car glee.
I’m equally excited for all things fall 🙂
Three. Days. Alone?!?!?
I don’t think I have ever felt so simultaneously happy for & jealous of another person! I would give anything for 3 hours at a motel six, let alone 3 days at such a gorgeous locale. Enjoy it for all of us mamas who are currently in the thick of things! 🙂
xo
Kate
Enjoy your retreat (no matter how much you get “done”). Also, some of the cutest pictures yet on this post.
Nella looks so so big with all that hair! I love to look at your pics 🙂 And we are on the slow steady road to potty training too! Very slow….
LOVE Nella’s foot peaking out of the blanket fort!!!!
Could write a novel on why I love every.single.picture in this post!
I start teaching next Wednesday. Nora goes wirh me. She doesn’t walk yet. Neither do I. This should be interesting…hahahaha!
Have a blessed retreat!!!
Enjoy your retreat this weekend. Are you willing to share what type of a project you’re working on?
I am so envious of your retreat right now.
Especially after sorting out yet more arguments and meltdowns from my four kids.
I love them dearly, but boy I think I am due a retreat after 10 years of parenting and 4 kids. Gorgeous as they are!
I love Nella’s pic with the whole “talk to the hand” attitude,it made me smile.
High five on making it through the first trimester.
Time to get your glow on!!
Wow…I have been away from the computer for a few weeks (having just had my third baby) and I missed so much! Many congratulations on your news…sorry you feel so sick. You look great, if that is any consolation.
The pictures included in this post are amazing. Nella is such a big girl!
Can’t wait to hear if you are having a boy or a girl! Such an exciting time. My new little beauty is only 1month old but I am already missing some things that are so quickly over! Silly, really.
Love from Switzerland
your blog inspires me in the way that it captures the ho-hum, hum-drum of daily/weekly life and in reflecting back you are better able to capture the present moments that create a childhood and family story. thank you. as we anticipate a potential move to germany for a couple years (we currently live in CA), I find myself dreaming and desiring to start a blog that will chronical our families, crazy adventures in a foreign land to share with our families and friends…thank you for being so inspiring.
I think you have the envy of every single one of your followers with your 3 day retreat! No doubt you will soak it up and come back with a ton of Kelle awesomeness to show for it. Enjoy!
Yay for the first trimester mark! Congrats!
XO
*Jazzmine*
Below is the email I sent to Comedy Central and Wayne Bray regarding his cruel attack on a young boy with DS. The organization Spread the word to End the R word is a great movement that is working hard to gain acceptance and respect for people with special needs. I know people say that we are just “sensitive’ but if you look at the history of the way people with special needs have been treated by our society you would understand that this is a very important movement. Tis is the email I have sent-“Comedy Central’s “Celebrity roasts” or what ever they are supposed to be are not funny, annoying and have turned into a platform for mediocre comedians to be cruel and vicious. Then the comedians with the support of Comedy Central hide behind their “jokes” and say, “it was just a joke, only kidding, don’t be so sensitive.” I saw the video of Wayne Brady mocking a 4 year old boy with Down Syndrome. What a vicious attack on a very young, innocent child! That is not comedy, that is cruel and shows that Wayne Brady does not have any class, compassion or decency. Mocking people with Down Syndrome is as low as you can go. Historically people with special needs have been left out of society and torn away from their families and communities and locked away in institutions. Mr. Brady needs to re-think his comedy and how his words will hurt people and effect the way people are viewed and treated.” Comedy Central sanctioned these remarks by airing this attack on people with special needs and Comedy Central as well as Mr. Brady need to apologize and use your power to promote a positive image of people with special needs.
How wonderful to have time away to write! Enjoy it.
Re: potty training. I am so happy to hear that we are not the only ones who leave a potty chair in the living areas of our house. It worked for all four of my kids. It just makes sense. Still I have people enter our home and turn their noses up at the idea of having a potty chair in the living room (it’s clean, of course). And with six people and only 1.5 bathrooms- it has definitely come in handy for her when the bathrooms are occupied.
Fabulously Gorgeous! Your photos are so amazing! I hope that you have a wonderful time on your retreat.
The garbage bag is my favorite. That’s awesome.
Enjoy your weekend! I love that picture of Nella holding the baby 🙂
njce blog
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You even have the ability to make a garbage back look stylish! 🙂 Love it!
Love the shot of Lainey in the garbage bag rain poncho, gave me a momentary flash back to raiding the cleaning crew carts for trash bags after class one rainy day during my freshman year at the University of Michigan, but instead of covering up with trash bag and running home my girlfriends and I ran through the diag and around campus enjoying the downpour and our stylish rain ensembles!
Enjoy your retreat! Love the picture of Lainey “chill’in” in the pool and the garbage bag as a rain poncho.
ah yes peace time..much needed space to think and organize jumbled thoughts.. enjoy..
Kelle, you just summed up perfectly my 2.5 year old second son-
…spirited energy contrasted perfectly by generous affection…
I always struggle to sum him up, especially since his big brother is the easy, rule-oriented, old soul. This little brother is opinionated, loud, doesn’t care a thing about rules or what you want or what is “right.” He walked at 9 months and talked late, but now that he can, he uses language to talk about what he is NOT planning to listen to do. But he is the loveyest, sweetest boy who loves to kiss and hug and tell you how much he loves you. So thanks for that little description. I will use it often! 🙂
I smell fall, too! I’m in Tampa and I swear I dressed in a fall-ish outfit today because I just knew the air would be cool. I felt like a nut pouring sweat out there in the blazing heat. Soon, though.
I love all of this post! I really love that Nella appears to be drinking some juice whilst on the potty. That should help guarantee success for sure! 🙂 Have a great week!
ENJOY ANTHANK YOU KELLE… You never cease to amaze me with your pictures and writing. Look forward to it everyday/well as often as you write.
Hi, new follower here, blue skies sent me over. My “little” brother just turned 44 and what a blessing he has been in our lives. I’m sure you have seen Noah’s Dads blog too. Wonderful to share your moments with all of us. Lori One question the rick/rack dress in the below post, do you know if it was home made or can I find it somewhere? Is it by one of your sponsors? All the kids clothes are prescious.
Love the rain parka in the last photo.
JUst write while you’re on your writing retreat! I did the same thing only at home – only to wistfully gaze out into my yard mid-page and decide that I really needed to go measure and the property, right then and there!
Got my book plate – many thanks.
Hi Kelle,
I wanted you to know that I have chosen you for The Very Inspiring Blogger Award. You can see the details about your nomination and why I find you inspiring on my blog post: http://www.notyouraveragewidow.com/2012/08/very-inspiring-blogger-award/
Great pictures, as always! Love the wellies! :0
–Erin
Hope you enjoy the retreat! Great moments captured in photos, as always – thanks for sharing!