Summer is here. As I type, the afternoon showers have arrived, dimming the house to perfect napping conditions for Lainey and providing just the right volume of pitter-patter for Nella to compete with, her happy voice getting louder and louder on the floor next to me. And from now until August, there will be many of these–afternoons when the lanai looks exactly like this…
And I’m pretty sure that’s exactly what it’s supposed to look like according to The Proverbial Book of Summer…if there was one.
I’ve been dabbling in my summer to-do list.
Wearing yellow.
Sucking down popsicles in the afternoon heat.
Purple’s the best, you know.
Slipping into the cool waters of our pool for family swim nights.
Which brings me to the announcement that, as of this week, Lainey is now back-floating by herself and swimming short distances to Daddy. I’ve wanted to do swim lessons several times but Brett insisted he teaches her. He promised a few weeks ago, she’d be swimming by herself by the end of June. And when they yelled for me to come out last night, I was ecstatic to find the little fish proudly smiling on her back.
She is determined. And I love her.
She is joining me in my summer loves like soaking our umbrella under the sprinkler…
…and watching our sunflowers get really big behind the pool screen.
If only we had fireflies. We could could catch them in jars, watch them twinkle and set them free into the woods. I suppose you can’t have it all.
**********************************************************************
Nella has been enjoying discovering herself behind the mirror.
She makes slow and deliberate movements, watching her little double make the same and intently taking it in.
And then, suddenly, she’ll break into a glorious smile.
Houston, we have one very happy baby.
We had lunch today with our friend Mia–sharing the magic and the love. Nella’s six days older so we figure she’ll be bossing her around in no time. But today, it was nothin’ but love.
And speaking of love…
Here’s high-kickin’ some back at ya.
Our little flour sack continues to grow. More robust. More beautiful. More lively and lovely every day. By this time with Lainey, I was so disappointed to have my “keg” dried up. I’m so blessed this time to have a full tap and every day, come “happy hour,” we curl up and she reaches out to grab my hand while we lock eyes and she sucks and breathes and smiles and can’t decide whether to focus on eating or me. And I know we give and love and delve our souls out to our littles without any expectation of return, but can I just say that being loved back by my girls…being mauled with kisses and catching their eyes when I know they are just screaming “I love you” makes me feel like a gazillion bucks? Can I get an amen?!
And this one?
She’s been my best friend, climbing up on chairs to stir spaghetti sauce next to me, trailing behind me into the bedroom to change Nella’s diaper, sitting on the bathroom counter passing me mascara tubes while I do my make-up. We call her Little Shadow. Oh, how happy she makes me.
Nella has a giveaway winner to report…
Random.org picks Commenter #403: Jenny Scroggins. Woo-hoo for Scroggins! Jenny, e-mail me (kascryder@yahoo.com) your address please and your choice of $50 merchandise from Bel Kai Designs, and somethin’ pretty will be making its way to your mailbox soon!
With that said…here’s a little video snippet of our little talker.
The girl digs her dad. Watch it HERE.
The Summer List continues. Hmmm…I’m thinking bright-colored flip-flops, some bubbles, fresh-squeezed lemonade….and watermelon. Yes, it’s going to be a good week.
Love it!
I am one of the first commenters!! I am sooo excited! I love rainy days, we have one here. Perfect for cuddling naps with my Jack. You are so lucky to have your little helper there. And I just love the mirror pictures. Beautiful!
Congrats to swimmer Lainey! I wish I was there to see it in person.
And I wish I could bottle up some fireflies and send them to you.
Nella is growing quickly and SO MUCH THE DOLL BABY! Oh do I love her…I wish I could see her in real life. Hurry and make that road trip to Michigan soon! Love you..miss you.
Nella is getting so big – she is just beautiful!
Love that your Popsicle matched your nail polish. 🙂
Oh so close… I was 304… right numbers, wrong order. Maybe next time! 🙂
Your girls are more scrumptious every post. Full of high kicks & spaghetti stirring & such beautiful smiles. Congrats to Lainey the swimmer!!! Such a grown up girl. And those Nella crinkly eyed smiles are pure magic.
Big love,
Kate
Oh, how i’m craving popsicles! Wow, in that picture of lainey stirring the sauce…she looks so grown up. She really is your little shadow! And how proud you must be to have her want to mimic you and be just like you.
Nella in the last picture looks so adorable. That outfit is simple adorable. You’re so lucky to get to spend summer (and all the time before and after it, really) kicking back and relaxing with those two awesome girls!
Have a great week!
So jealous of your togs hanging up, the ice blocks being eaten and all those beautiful summer experiences! On the other side of the world here, we have the fire roaring, blankets out to snuggle, hot chocolate and marshmallows for our babies and have lots rain of course! After reading your post and smiling and laughing at your gorgeous babies, I’m off to do the house work with a big grin on this face! Have a wonderful week Kelle!
AMEN!!!
Swimmer Lainey and Dolly Nella with teddy bears…
Great pictures!
Nella’s gettin BIG!!!! YAY! I love watching them grow, as I also have a weed on my hands too 😀
Lovely summer ahead!!
xoxo,
Lori
Your music selections have easily doubled the mytunes bill in my house. But my ipod is reacher. And my office is a bit more swinging…
Thanx.
You are such an inspiration, Kelle. You make life make sense…
You are such an inspiration, Kelle. You make life make sense…
You make me yearn for summer. I’m a week past my due date and want nothing more to be in the pool or in the sun, or drinking sangria!
love, love, love the high kick picture of Nella Bean. What a great afternoon in the lanai, enjoy!
Sending a loud Amen! from Kentucky. Love love love your blog…it makes me happy :))
Wonderful photos of your beautiful girls. I loved the video too.
I’m so glad to hear that Nella is such a happy baby, as Peter was such a grump. So don’t believe it when they say that kids with DS are natually happy. They are as different in personality as all children.
I especially loved the photo of Nella sitting up with the teddy bears. 🙂
Have a great day,
Bridget
Amen sista! We are all in the midst of fun times 🙂
OMGosh that picture of Nella with the bears just melted my heart even more. The picture of Lainey stirring the sauce oh I could’ve just picked her up and squeezed her she is such a cutie pie. Congrats on the swimming Lainey!!!!
The high kick picture and the one right above it in the same cute long braided hat that makes Nella look like she has piggy tails… oh, I am so in love with that girl!
She is such a doll baby! She always always always makes me smile!
Thank you.
And sometimes I cry. And I thank you for that, too!
Your day sounds like it couldn’t be any more perfect. I love reading about your life – I’m sure you hear it over and over but you say much of what I feel- only in a much more beautiful, eloquent language!
I think you are wonderful, inspirational & I think we’re destined to be friends 🙂
Thank you for your posts – I look forward to reading them all the time.
Love the pic of Nella Bean sitting up so big with her little hat!! When did that happen….she is growing too fast!!
Way to go Lainey for swimming on your back…Daddy must be a great teacher!!
Love the hot pink shoes Kelle….They Rock!!!
Amen and Amen!!!
Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww. Your girls are so cute. I could look at them all day!
I love this post! your photography is beautiful!
Oh – what a beautiful and precious video!! Looks like Nella has daddy wrapped around her little finger, and I am sure big sister does too!
Beautiful… as always :o)
Love it Kelle! We have monsoon during the summer here in Phoenix, and it is by far my favorite times! Perfect for snuggling on the couch with my little one and reading or watching movies!
When I was a teenager I spent my summers teaching swim lessons to little ones and lifeguarding, I cannot wait until I can start teaching Landon! He is almost 9 months and he is already a pro in the pool…. loves being dunked and splashing and kicking! Congrats to Lainey on the back float!
Leah
http://www.lovelifeandmommyhood.blogspot.com
AAAAAMEN Mama!
Happy Tuesday Kelle 😉
Leona from Victoria, BC, Canada
Oh, I can totally see a smidge of Lainey in Nella in the last picture of her with the bears! Sweet sisters. And I love that your nail polish matches the popsicle! 🙂
thanks again for making my day and inspiring another one of the thousands who read your journal! your girls are beautful, and i say that on every post!
amen!!!
Kelle!! Ahhhhhh! Listen to her talking!! I can’t even take it, my heart just totally burst!! Summer sure does feel good doesn’t it? It’s only June and I can already get away with tank tops and flip flops in Pittsburgh, it’s a miracle!
P.S.-did you get my email? hit me back when you get a sec :o)
I forgot to say this on the last comment, but I’m from Vermont! And boy, do we ever have fireflies. It’s like having stars swimming around you in the dark. I’ve been trying to catch them in a jar for a photo shoot (and for the joy of it) but those coy suckers are hard to catch! I love this summer post! And ooh I love Nella’s fashion sense! Those knit pants are fantastic. I really enjoyed reading this. Thank you.
xoxo
Melina
Seriously in love with the video of her and her dad having a conversation that gets interupted by mom! Oh her face makes me laugh!
Oh how I love summer fun, lazy days, and just doing all the fun things that summer brings. Lainey looks like she’s doing great in the pool and let me tell you, if Nella is anything like Noah and his buddies with Ds, then she’ll be a little fish as well. Noah LOVES the water and they are never too young to learn how to swim. My parents live next door and have a pool and I’m SO glad that Noah has learned to swim like a little pro because having a child with Ds and a pool so close by scared the bejesus out of me. Children with Ds sometimes like to wander off, as least in my experience, and I’m just so thankful that if he EVER fell into the pool, he’d know how to save himself. He swims better than I do!!! Oh and LOVE LOVE LOVE Nella’s smiles. Keep them comin!!!
Shhhh, don’t tell everyone how enchanting Florida can be in the summertime–or the snowbirds just might stay! Yes, I love those tropical rains and days so hot you just stay in the pool until you prune! And can I say, that voice of our Nellalove just melted me. I want her to practice early…to connect with speech therapists…to rehearse her message because I know she has one. I so believe she is purposed. She is sent. She connects us to something sweet and precious. Strangely, I was watching the sad saga of Joran Vandersloot on the news and thought to myself–there is true heartbreak for parents…who welcomed perfection and prettiness only to meet the dark shadows of a cold and cruel heart. I would be more sad to endure that kind of tragedy. We welcome a pure spirit who may or may not shed all the wonder of childhood as she grows…and if she doesn’t, that is okay with us. I would be more proud of a pure and precious child like our Nella than the “Perfect” child who cannot love others. Like her big brother Brandyn said on his early and only walk of tears with Auntie Dot down the hospital corridor when he said, “I just don’t want anyone to ever make fun of her.” There is perfection…perfect love. So I will listen closely to that voice that today is little coos, for tomorrow, I think it will call us to greatness. Love from a rainy evening in Michigan–we both have found the sun!
Amen mama! =)
I just cut up a delicious little watermelon myself and am watching the summer rain shower on our patio (wish I could call it a lanai ha). Summer just makes me so content inside.
Oh my word – I can’t even begin to list my faves!! The one with Lainey under the sprinkler with her umbrella would definately be near the top of the list…and the one of Nella grinning at herself! SWEET!!!
Kelle, I just love the pics of Nella sitting with her teddy bears, she will sit up on her own soon, do you practice yet in a high chair, propping her up, is she old enough to have a toothing cookie yet? …Remembering my infant baby girl starting on them cookies, she had it everywhere, but boy did she love them, she made the yummiest hummings of yummming there are, hummmming all the time as she sucked and enjoyed her cookie …Nella will do that soon I’m sure !…*giggles*
Kelle, Thanks for letting us hear Nella’s voice with her Dad, thinking she was telling tales of your trip to Miami, and telling on all the things Lainey does with her when Dad’s not there …*winks*
Love you all,
Deborah, a Canadian nurse …
“Ooooooh, Daddy hushed the Mama.” That may be my new favourite sentence – thanks for allowing us to share in Nella’s beauty and vociferous chants of loves. May I add that Lainey and Nella may just have the most beautiful eyes I’ve ever seen…and that’s saying a lot because I’m a biased Mama Bear.
And Poppa, I cried when you shared what big bro Brandyn said…I concur. That is indeed perfect love. A big amen to all that is well in this world.
Amen! We have those same rainy summer days here in Houston. Just had a total blackout with the skies today. And yes I took a nap!
My husband came in while I was looking at today’s blog and he loved the ones of Nella and the mirror! Too too cute!
Loved the video too!
Every time I read your blog I smile from ear to ear! I don’t have any children of my own (yet) and reading about your days and witnessing your love for your children through your words and your pictures makes me want to have children even more than I already do. I work in the infant room at a daycare with 15 babies under a year old and I always say that I love those babies as if they are my own. Everyone always tells me that until I have babies of my own I will not know how different it becomes, how deep the love runs and how your heart literally aches for
your ‘littles’. Your posts make me believe that they are right! Keep ’em coming!!
And Poppa – your words are just as amazing and inspiring!! Do you have a blog of your own? I am one of those ‘snowbirds’ you speak of. I will be relocating to Naples at the end of summer to be a nanny for an 18-month-old (which is ultimately why I began reading ETST – between the photography, writing (blogging), kids and Naples I related on so many levels!)
Look out Jackie Chan! I LOVE the pic of Nella kicking. She has such a look of determination on her face. Can I also say I love Poppa’s comment? Let a good life be a measure of a person, not the number of chromosomes.
Love that Nella’s kickin love right back at us!! I could eat her up!!!!!
Purple IS the best! So few people agree with that! But as I say, more of the good stuff for me!!
I get all excited when I see there is a new post!!!
I love reading your descriptions of every day life, always makes me want to do something extra special with my day and my family!!! not to mention, there is just nothing sweeter than the pics of your girls. LOVE all of them but especially the one of Nella smiling soooo big in front of the mirror, oh my gosh, so precious.
Like another person commented, I always look for your poppa’s comments, he speaks from the heart as you do and its always like a little gift at the end of one of your spectacular posts.
Adore the mirror pics…so dang cute!
Oh, yes, AMEN Kelle! Thank you for the reminder of all the times with my three, now adult children when my heart would skip a beat as our eyes met and I could see the face of pure love! Thank you again! It is indeed one of life’s most incredible moments! I am so blessed!
Your littles are getting so big!! Love following your summer! When I’m at work I park here on your blog just to hear your playlist! Love the “shoes” song!!
AMEN!!
First, AMEN! Second, Puleze! We all know that red is the best Popsicle! Nella is getting so big and nothing is sweeter than baby chunk! While watching Nella chatting with her Dad my 9 month old laughed and talked back. She clearly knew what Nella was saying! I look forward to the next post.
Okay…this was a great blog post!! The pic of sweet little Nella doing the “high kick out” made me laugh out loud!! You have a little heartbreaker on your hands!! OMG…they are just too cute! Heather 🙂
Enjoying your blog. LOVE the umbrella picture and the teddy bear pictures!
It’s so true what they say “A Girls Best Friend is Her Mother”…I just lost mine 3 weeks ago today and it is awful…but I have two girls of my own and knowing that we have this awesome relationship and that I have two best friends of my own makes it soo much easier! Enjoy your girls Kelle, they are the best :). You are a great mama and they will love you like that forever.
Thanks for the umbrella in the sprinkler idea! I never would have thought of that! My little man and I were looking at your blog together and we are excited to try that out.
As soon as I had finished reading, he asked to see “that cute baby” again. Twist my arm… 🙂
I love the picture of Nella smiling at herself in the mirror. She is pure sweetness.
Ah… that video. Please post them more often, they are the highlight of my week! (that sounds so pathetic but since I have no kids of my own, can I live vicariously through yours?!)
AMEN, sista! I just LOVE LOVE LOVE the high-kick pic!!
This comment has been removed by the author.
First of all, I love that little kick! And secondly, that little kiss to the mirror picture makes me ache. What a sweet little one.
AMEN!! Your girls are beautiful! Enjoy your summery week!
Amen!
Kelle, thanks so much for your honesty and your love of the life of a mother. I’ve been lurking for a few months, trying to pull myself out of some PPD, paired with moving to a whole new state and an unfamiliar new job as Stay At Home Mamma. It hasn’t been an easy transition for me, but I love seeing how excited you get about things that I haven’t noticed about my own kids because I was too busy feeling sorry for me. I’m proud to say that this week, we started embracing summer and I’m determined to focus on my three beautiful children instead of all the things I’m not doing. You encourage me to see the wonder in our mundane lives… and it’s magical. I love you, sister-mother!
Amen! Loving from littles=Amazing!
Glad you are enjoying your summer. Ours starts “officially” on the 22nd and I can not wait!
Oh my! I am crying because of Poppa’s comment regarding big brother’s worry for Nella being teased. I know with the family she has that she’ll feel love 10 fold above any of that.
I originally came here to post that I got a Nikon D90. I know very, very little about photography but you only live once, right? I take about a million photos of my 2 kiddos so I figured it would be used often. Just wanted to say you inspire me to be a better mom! And I am totally jealous you have such a wonderful loving dad & family!!
Poppa you reminded me of something that happened when Noah was little. Noah was 2 months older than my neighbor’s “typical” little boy and when they were around 2 years old I watched as Noah was content lying on his blanket in the front yard, and this other little boy was literally doing cartwheel after cartwheel and running around like mad. I suddenly felt like I was stabbed in the heart. The differences were just thrown right in my face and I have to admit I was sad. Then, about 5 years later, we run into this same mom and son in the grocery store. While we were telling her of all the milestones that Noah has accomplished, how wonderful he was doing in school, how he has melted the hearts of everyone who meets him and how we didn’t know how we ever existed without him, she had very little to say about her son. He was an ordinary child, nothing special to report, moody and throwing a temper tantrum in the store for unknown reasons, while Noah stood quietly beside me like the perfect angel. Right then and there I realized how blessed we were and I actually felt SORRY for her for not knowing this kind of love, not knowing how it felt to reach a milestone and call everyone you know. And by the look on her face, I think she felt nothing but envy!!! 🙂
Oh Kelle, Nella is getting so big.
I totally believe in summer to-do lists. So far, I’ve knocked off about 3-4 on my list.
What a talker! And, nice “hush” Brett! So funny!
I love the one of Lainey cookin’… I can see the toys on the floor, and it makes me happy. That’s what my kitchen looks like, and while it can be frustrating, it’s also a pretty joyful sight.
Enjoy!
Amen girl…That Nella girl is sooooo beautiful, oh and Lainey is swimming…She is becomming a big girl mommy!
Its still rainy here (Dominican Republic), hot and humid. Today we got quite a big “breeze” wich knocked a couple of trees down, creepy, huh?
Bless you, blees you guys so much…
Good night beautiful family!
Oh, that picture with her “kickin” the love back… that is amazing! Adorable!! She is one beautiful little sweetheart. However, I have to ask- what’s up with the knit pants and knit cap in the middle of June in FLORDIA!??! OK, so I live in MN nearly year round (except we stay in FL during Jan and Feb.)- and I thought I had seen it all this past Feb when I looked out my window (in FL) it was a bit chilly and people were walking on the BEACH wearing scarves, mittens and hats… hilarious!!! But now I see your lil pumpkin with knits on in June and now I KNOW all you Floridians are crazy. LOL!! 😉
Tonight, for the first time – the fireflies were out in all their splendor and glory! I was driving home when I caught the first glimpse of something flash and then with delight I realized they were back! I smiled the whole way home singing a little song I made up along the way about how I love fireflies 🙂 Visit Asheville North Carolina sometime – and I’ll be sure and save some fireflies for you 🙂
Peace and love. Be well.
Amen and as always, love your poppa’s words
Amen! The pictures of Nella with the teddy bears are too precious, I love tht little face of hers! I always read what poppa has to say and the comment that Braydn said about not wanting anyone to make fun of Nella just broke my heart. He must be an amazing older brother!
Awe! I like how Lainey is looking at her brother out at the pool. So cute!
The pic of you with your popsicle gave me the chills and even writing this gives me them again! come on summer!
Love the video! she’s so cute!
Amen!! Love the mirror pictures!!
I LOVE reading about her big brother being protective…what a lucky girl Nella is!
Seeing Lainey get brave with her swimming while her Daddy teaches her is precious!!
The high kick picture and the pic of Lainey stirring the sauce are my favs of this post..love.them!!!
Keep bringing them Kelle, truly inspirational! Now, I’m off to watch the video!!
Loved Daddy’s face on the first picture. He looks so proud. Amen, sister. Life is good.
AMEN sister!!
Oh! and I remember when my boys were little they used to LOVE playing in front of mirrors!
AsIFrolicThroughLife.blogspot.com
wow your summer “view” looks pretty good to me! wish i had that to look at everyday!
i can’t believe how big nella is getting! she is so cute…
and i love that nickname “little shadow” .. one day you’re gonna miss that!
xo
I’m going to give a big Amen to breastfeeding. There is nothing in the world like it.
I loved it as mine got big enough to rub my side while they ate. There’s something rather comforting about being everything they need for a little while.
Our screened in pool area looked exactly like that this evening! Right down to the swimsuits dripping hanging over the fence. 🙂 And I have to say–that teddy bear ears hat Nella is wearing? UnBELIEVEably adorable.
Another Amen mama!! Beautiful shots with the mirror. Have a great week.
Sandi, Ontario, Canada
Love,love,love the first pic of Nella between the bunnies!!!! ADORABLE!!! You’re so talented girl!
And talking Nella!?! LOOOVE the video! Brett is so proud!
Thanks for makin me smile! 😉
I heart Karate Chop.
Feets!
xo
c
LOVED the video. What a cutie. That is one of my favorite baby phases…when they are just learning their voice and will just talk and talk – too cute! And the picture of Nella high kickin’…cutest thing ever!!! Put a huge smile on my face. Thanks for sharing your beautiful life with us all.
I have recently discovered your blog and I am inspired. enthralled. Your voice is clear as day and your girls just BEAUTIFUL! Thank you! 🙂
,,,”here comes the sun”,,,
I love the cozy and warm feelings that Rainy Days give off! I thought it was just me. 🙂
Your girls are precious 🙂
Just love the Nella pic of her in the hat next to the bears. And, I recognize that bear….is that a (heavy) Boyd’s Bear? If it is, I have the same one! It was the first gift my husband (then boyfriend) ever gave me, 12 years ago.
bells!!! so many awesome things in this post!!! first off, the picture of you eating the purple popsicle…you bit it off so perfectly that you can see the cross-section. the design is cool.
nella in the mirror. oh, how i love her. and lainey cooking sauce!!!! i love kid/cooking photos and she looks like a grown-up too.
karate kicks and nella laughing at herself, yummy.
loveyou.
And a great job it looks like the proud papa did. Little Lainey will be swimming without him before long.
I cannot tell you how much I look forward to reading these blogs everyday or two and how it warms my heart to see a great mama doing great things. Love love love the picture of Nella with the hat!Those little almond eyes just ooze contentment, and love. Kelle, your cup definitely runneth over. Beautiful!
p.s. Can I join your group of girls going to the movies in your best dresses?! too cool!
Congrats to Lainey!! We are working with our little swimmer too, only he’s being a bit stubborn…Loved the video of Nella talking..What a story she was telling!
p.s. Have you perfected the Sangria yet? If so can you pass that recipe along to a Canadian sista longing for a little bit of the South?
Amen.
(The picture of Nella smiling into the mirror? Maybe my favorite so far!) xo
Your girls are so beautiful! LOVE the video! Thank you so much for sharing. C:
“We all enter this world possessing an intrinsic radiance that shines forth from our inner core. We are born into a vast palace of powers and possibilities; our being contains boundless potential. From deep within us we can bring forth a wide range of resources…strength, wisdom, compassion, tenderness, joy, humor…generosity. This is our divine birthright.” -John Welwood
You are beautiful and make me want to have a family of my own. Thank you for sharing your beautiful life.
I love reading your blog and checking out your amazing pictures!!! You have an amazing way with words!
Amazing pictures as always…
Love it! Love it all. Nella looks so big in those pictures she’s sitting up with the bears. And her smile just melts my heart. She’s so special.
I can’t believe Lainey is back floating, that’s so exciting!
Uh….those pink zapatos are MAGIC! Love ’em…..
Hey Kelle, where did you get Lainey’s swim floatie? I think it would be a great solution for our two year olds. You’re always an inspiration – thank you.
AMEN! =D
love the “high kick” pic. she looks like a girl who has a sense of humor. =)
i <3 you poppa.
Amen!!!
Ok, 1. How darn flawless is your skin??!! Incredible!
2. Lainey in that bikini, heaven!
3. Nella and the high kick with the bears…hilarious! She looks dead cheeky, love it.
-x-
Hi — I’ve so enjoyed ‘back-reading’ your blog. The gorgeous photos and all the love & fun! Can’t help being drawn to the high-kickin’ the love back at ya pic as everyone this side of the world is football crazy at the moment and that photo is a perfect soccer action shot I think!
Best wishes you way – Julie
Gotta love summer. I think one of my favorite shots this time of Lainey is her on the side of the pool, waiting for her brother to jump in. Oh, the expression on her face is priceless! And Nella is really growing – thanks for sharing the kicks, smiles, and the video. My close friend Shannon’s baby is a month older than Nella and he’s a chatter box since 4 months. I miss those little conversations, but love hearing my daughter say the word Strawberries – it comes out sounding like a very fancy French word (phonetically Fra-mon-Nay-s). Better than the actual French word for Strawberries.
Thanks for sharing and making my morning. Off to the doctor to tend to a lovely sprained ankle! Wonder if I’ve earned a lollipop?
-Jennifer (tallcurlygirly)
Love the sunflowers and all the smiles!
Thought you might be interested in entering the Threadless Love T-shirt design contest! Check out the details at http://www.threadless.com/loves/shutterstock!
Oh and one more thing, I can totally see a Down syndrome calender in the future, with besties Nella and Mia in it. And I know a few other sweet faces that would be willing to participate!!! hint hint!!! 🙂
Nella kickin’ and talkin’- TOO SWEET!!! LOVE IT!
Nella girl is getting SO big! and beautiful of course. Lainey is precious too. I have a little shadow myself. It is grand, isn’t it? so much love your heart can hardly stand one more drop!!!!
Nella girl is getting SO big! and beautiful of course. Lainey is precious too. I have a little shadow myself. It is grand, isn’t it? so much love your heart can hardly stand one more drop!!!!
I love your thoughts how raw and genuine you are with perfect strangers. Your expressions serve to remind me of someone familiar I once knew. It’s me, It’s me, BH–Before Heartbreak. You make me want to find her again. I’ve spent the last two years taking care of business regarding only the details therein. My soft nature somehow moved to a corner somewhere huddled and tucked away. You have touched her/me. I smile each time I read about your cooking endeavors and I thought you might enjoy some very quick 10-minute meal recipes that I’ve created for those of us who’d rather be soaking up the souls of our babies than slaving for too long in a kitchen. There are memories to be had. I hope you enjoy and know that thanks to you, I’m on my way back to feeling again. http://www.10-minutemeals.com
Magical….as always! i have a “little shadow” as well…she turned 2 in december and WOW i bet her and Lainey would get along TERRIFICALLY!!! baby dolls, pulling a chair up to help cook, sitting on the counter to absorb every last second of watching momma….she is my youngest of 3 and my absolute baby!! Nella is getting SO big and looks SO happy!! i enjoyed the video of her talking to daddy…more vids please! 😉
Take care! hope you have a fabulous week!
Christy
amen, preach it sister!
go little fish go! she’s so fearless!
oh, the smile! and nella with the bears, seriously?! seriously?! LOVE!
oh and the video, love it! love how brett’s like – she does it for me all the time if you’d be quiet sometimes maybe you’d hear it. bwahahaha! i love you kelle bells!
Yes, a Down syndrome calendar…maybe called “Up the Down Staircase” Lots of photos–putting a new and beautiful face on this “distinction.” Nella, our little calendar girl! I love the idea. But then, I love Nellabean. (It is raining again here…thank God for interior sunlight!) Have a wonderful day…a day full of wonder!
That’s so funny that you call your eldest ‘Little Shadow’. That’s what my nickname is for MY firstborn daughter!
sending you a loud and robust AMEN, sister!! we, too, have had the summer showers … like lots of it. and i’m not complaining, it’s nice and relaxing! oh, your fish … isn’t crazy how proud they make you? good for her, that is such a great feat! and nella nestled among the bears, um, delicious!!
happy day, you always make me smile 🙂
i’m planning a cocktail party/shower for my baby sister, it’s this weekend, and i’m so excited (and a little stressed, too) … i can’t believe it’s almost here!!
one more thing, yay for the yellow! it’s my favorite color, you know …
I love the way you savor every moment spent with your family and sometimes your pictures just take my breath away!!!
Thanks for such a great post. It’s a gray, rainy day that started with a flat tire and your pics and words were just the pick me up I needed.
Happy Wednesday!
you choose to be happy, kelle. what a courageous decision. keep smiling and know that you have a kindred spirit in jackson, michigan.
-carrie :o)
Amen!
Amen! Yes….those looks, snuggles and kisses cannot compare to anything! My son comes up to me randomly and says “mom, i need a cozy hug’. Oh man…melts me every time!
glad you have been enjoying your summer list. we have been chipping away at ours and having a blast. would you believe I raked out the woods in our back yard to make my son a “secret garden”. fully decorated with sprite houses, baskets of pine cones and wood furniture? Hampton inspired 😉
kuddos to Lainey for learning to swim! so exciting. and Nella is making big strides….I smile everytime I see her sweet face.
xo
Kris
Could Nella be any more delicious? Adorableness abounds!
Oh my, in this post you can really see how big Nella is getting!!!! And yeah for Lainey on floating and swimming. I bet that made Brett one very happy daddy!!!
I am happy for you and your family, but must admit I feel green-eyed sometimes looking at your beautiful life in Florida, back-yard pool and being home every day with your children. Life seems a bit more rough here in the North 🙂 Kudos!
AMEN TO THE 10TH DEGREE!!
Nella’s pics are always so beautiful ..Love her smile, and congrats for a having a swimming baby, Vihaan is so close:)!
I never thought of putting a mirror on the floor for baby to see their face! What a grand idea. Nella gets more adorable by the day. My Mom works with special needs children and she said that if there’s one thing they bring into her life, its a remembering to be joyful, thankful, not letting the ugliness of the world drag them down. She said looking in their eyes is like seeing JOY brand new. Love it!
ok first of all… AMEN!!! and i adore that photo of Nella and friend – sooo precious!
also congrats to Lainey and floating on her back, my 3 year old has just recently learned to do that, he doesn’t feel super comfortable without his water wings but we only have 3 good months of POOL weather here in KY.
:o) love your blog been reading for a while now and your writing along with photos are so addictive! i am always anxious to see what you have updated or posted!
Ahh, teddy bears are such good friends! My mum still has her teddy from her childhood, he’s seventy now and lost a bit ( a lot) of his hair, but he’s there!
It is always such a emotional rollercoaster reading your posts, and Poppa’s comments. What a sweet big brotherness from Brandyn, I love the way babies are born into so much unconditional love from their families, even before they emerge or do anything to gain it, it is there. Isn’t it strange how before you even meet someone you can love them more than you will ever love most people you have known for years? And yet it’s just right.
I am in love with your garden.
Nella’s little arms in that video! I can tell she is saying something very important, and it seems like she knows her daddy totally gets it!And well done Lainey in the pool!! I’m impressed!
if your Keg dries up, you can get your doctor to write you a prescription for some domperidone (also known as Motilium).
I swear this is the last time I’m posting today, but Kelle have you been to Baby Gap lately? I was there today and although my youngest is 9 years old, I just HAVE to stroll over to the baby section and I nearly had a seizure and died right there on the spot today. OH MY LORD!!! I want to have 3 more baby girls JUST to buy the clothes to put on them. They have Nostalgic looking one piece bathing suits for Nella, and WEDGE criss cross sandals, and the dresses, OH MY the dresses. I almost hyperventillated and I could just see Nella in every single outfit, and Lainey in all the matching stuff. Okay just had to get that out. 🙂
amen, all the way from Canada, where nursing time is locking eyes feeling the ” I love you” messages…
Love Lainey in her goggles and toothy grin…and Nella sitting in her cute little knitted outfit and grinning.
just came back to see the video. O.m.g. LOVE <3
Amen sister!
p.s the video is the sweetest!
Amen, sistah!
Why is it so much easier to stick with Summer resolutions than New Year’s? Oh yeah – because they’re FUN!
Our lemons end up on the carpet, too. 🙂
Go Lainey! She’ll be doing canonballs in no time. And sprinklers – a favorite childhood memory of mine… but since we can’t hook our sprinkler up to the hose, the spray from the hose itself will have to suffice for my little girl. And she loves it.
I love to watch the littlest little discover new things and take it all in with almost palpable curiosity. Most of the time, I think they’re just trying really hard to figure out how to get something into their mouths. 🙂
so i’m writing this from the UK where every summers day is a rainy one. 🙂
I’m right in the middle of exams at the moment and your blog is the perfect break from revision, your words and pictures never fail to inject a mass of sunshine into my days.
Nella is such a sweetheart. I thought of her and you the other night, I was at a garden party for a family friends birthday and spent almost all of the night sat on a picnic blanket with my favourite little who also has that magic extra chromosone. we sat and talked, sung songs and shared secrets all night.
She may only be 8 but she is one of my favourite people ever. I can’t wait for you to experience that.
xo
Amen! I always love your pics, but the two of Nella in her adorable knit hat made my afternoon. 🙂
girl, you are one heck of a rockstar!!! You and your girls!!!! Rock on rock star lady!!!!
I ADORE Nella’s ‘high-kick’ picture. I want a print of it on my wall!! *hugs*
Me, too! I’d pay good money to get me a Nella & Lainey poster! There ya go, Kelle – a new business! And I also want 25 copies of the book we KNOW you are working on, right??!!
your photography is so beautiful. I’ve been back reading your blog too and have found two photos I can not stop talking about. One is the new ninja-baby Nella. I love the expression on her face…it looks like she is pointing that little toe right at you and saying one more picture and I’m gonna get you momma!! It is such a gorgeous shot. The other one I LOVE (and wish I could find again) is of Lainey I think she is playing badmitton and it was a bad call and the expression on her face was so priceless. Mad and yet beautiful.
Keep up the great work. I love love your blog and your photography. Thanks so much for sharing!
I just wanted to say that I thoroughly enjoy your blog and your beautiful photography! Your girls are so precious, too!
You definitely have the summer stuff down pat. 🙂
-Zoë
http://www.runzoerun.com
Wonderful post, as usual…..and can I admit that I am just a wee bit jealous of your pool and lanai? 🙂 What fun times – and little miss Nella – her sweet little smiles melt my heart and make my day.
Jealous of your lanai and your ability to get started on your summer list. We are still living in the land of rain and gloom up here in the North…I’ll have to start on that list despite the rain!
Oh my~those pictures of Nella between the stuffed animals with her hat and legwarmers!!!!! So cute!
just when i think nella couldn’t get any cuter…well, whattaya know, she does!!! lainey is a gem and nella is just a sweet little sack of sugar – i could just eat her up!
Amen!
AMEN!!! Amen to solo back floats Lainey!! Way to go!! Amen to high kicking love from that gorgeous growing Nella!! Kelle, you have an overflowing cup of beauty & love right there!! And you slurp it up in the most memorable of ways through your words and photos. Thanks again for sharing!!
And thanks for the great music…just going through your play list and marking my favourites and played Macy Gray’s Beauty in the World and couldn’t stop myself from getting up and dancing all alone in my sleepy house and wow I love doing that from time to time :)…thanks Kelle for your vibrant love for life, it’s contagious and I’m feeling it!
Monique
From Canada
Keep nursing as long as you can; I have no doubts breast-milk has kept my little Johnny (also with Down syndrome) as healthy as can be- nothing better than a year or two of “liquid gold”!!
OMG…… that little Nella is so precious. She looks so big propped up on the bed. Great pictures as always.
Happy Summer!!!
Amy
Kelle,
I loved what Poppa wrote, you both are such gifted writers, he should write a book too!! You inspire me with each post to truly savor my awesome children (5 girls and a boy), even when things are crazy. Keep doin’ what you’re doin’. Thank you!!!
PS savin’ up for my dslr….. 🙂
First, you dropped some lemons. Second, dark red is the best. Third, I love Nellas kick and lastly Amen!
,,,dig the pink mary-jane wedges,,,the karate kick from nella is for BP right smack dab in the hinney,,,oh nella is so yummy,,,lady bug lainey is a mini you!,,,nella studying her self portrait in the mirror now that’s priceless,,,and her nautical outfit ADORABLE,,,what is it about little cubbies in blue and white nautical outfits and black patent mary janes,,,its classic!
Nella is 2 weeks older than my ‘lil peanut and I love seeing Nella updates! Soo cute! Happy Summer from Michigan!
Amen, Sister.
That video was so sweet! I remember those first little coos when they discover their little voices!
Happy babies rock.
~Katie
You give me more reason to enjoy this hot, humid, summer in Naples. Love your girls! Nella’s kick rocks the house, and I’m so impressed Lainey is learning to swim!
OMG!! Love the teddy bear picture. She just gets more and more beautiful every day! Both of your girls do. Have fun with the summer list 🙂
I love your blog. You constantly give me hope and inspiration. Thank you. My son, Dylan, was born with a chromosomal deletion called Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome. I know our journey with our kiddos are different but in a way the same. They give us so much love and happiness. You have a beautiful family.
🙂 Kristy
And Poppa does it again – brings me to tears. Kelle, you tell that awesome big brother of Nella that people in life may very well make fun of that little angel he loves so much, but that is where God has purposed HIM. He’ll be there to hug her, give her kisses and remind her of how wonderful she is – regardless of what ignorant people may say.
Kelle – I love the pictures of your Bean sitting up! So big! And AMEN to your “can I get a?”
Amen!
And love those lashes of Lainey’s when she’s on her back in the pool 🙂
I LOVVVE reading your blog everyday!
One more thing to add to that Summer “to do” list…
Butterfinger Cake. It’s “da bomb baby”
It’s on my blog if you want the recipe 🙂
ENJOY!!!
~~Ann~~
Sweet Nella looks just like a teddy bear in those pics. So cute. You just wanna reach out and squish her:) Also, loooove the shoes!
Nella’s “High Kick of Love” pic, is now in my favourite top ten pictures of yours that I’ve seen Kelle (and it would be HARD to compile and limit that list).
Keep swimming Lainey – how exciting! Even more so that Brett is able to teach her. Moments – high kicking, back floating, pasta sauce stirring, peeking in the mirror moments. That is what life’s all about. Bravo!! 🙂
You’ve once again inspired me – off to make some magic moments of our own with my two “littles” – (hope you don’t mind I’ve adopted that saying).
~Kathy
It is lovely that I read the comments just to hear what your Pops has to say!
Does he have a blog too? Oh pretty please, let it be?
Fantastic words. Thank you.
Poppa!!!! Gimme a hug, gimme a hug, GIMME A HUG PLEASE!!!
I’ve been following your blog for a while now and never left a comment before today! You must hear this OVER & OVER again, but I’m so touched by your story, your life and your BEAUTIFUL daughters! I bought photoshop and am currently working on my son’s 1st yr scrapbook, thank you for posting how you made Lainey’s. Normally people wish other people luck in a different type of situation but I won’t do that, because I don’t think you need it, I think you’ve gotten everything under control and are providing your family with everything they need! I’m so happy for you and look forward to reading your blog daily! I’m a bit of a stalker! Brandy!
Can we please get some information on where you got the shoes, they are ADORABLE!!
Amen girlfriend!
I feel like your posts need a place to comment after every picture. Each post is filled with so many yummy things!
Just wanted to comment on how big Nella looks in these pictures. She is growing up so quickly and such a doll! You have a beautiful family!
Kelle! Beautiful pics. Where did you get those perfectly pink pillow shams in Nella’s room?!? Must have them now! 🙂
I absolutely adore reading your beautiful pieces. Your family is wonderful and so blessed. Thank you so much for giving me inspiration and magic to look forward too. I have a 4 month old little girl and am loving life. I just wish my baby and Nella could be friends!!
I love it when kids learn to float on their back. It’s usually a sudden a-ha moment. You know they can float long before they know they can, and when they get it it’s amazing!
They suddenly feel so wonderful and powerful with their new found ability and they just want to float and float. It is magic to me.
Hi, Your pictures are beautiful. I gave birth to our second son on January 1st, 2010 and he was diagnosed with DS at birth. I was told about Nellya’s birth story by a NICU nurse who was working with my son. Your tory was beautiful. I read your blog often and find it very helpful, comforting, uplifting and fun to read as I navigate through this new adventure. I read the following quote some place-“always remember it is simply not an adventure worth telling if there are not any dragons. But, as in the best old tales at the end of your exploring-you will live happily ever after!”
Kimmy
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