I have this problem. I am a life-lover. A marrow-sucker. An optimist on a life-long hunt for good and wonder and joy, and I find it. And that's not even the problem. The problem is that, in maximizing good, sometimes I find it in so many places that when it's abundantly flowing, I panic. And wait for the other shoe to fall. As if some tight-bunned type A chick with a clipboard is deliberately dishing out carefully allotted portions of good and somehow overlooked the extra helping and is now going to take it back.
I am learning to ride the currents--both good and bad--and rather than anticipating what's around the bend whether it's turbulent rapids or a serene oasis, I need to simply be in this moment and take what it has to give. Right now, things are really fabulous. And though I had to laugh at the last several posts with beach trips and parties and travels and this illusion of a rockstar life, I assure you it is weighted appropriately with the monotony of everyday life and stresses. I don't photograph bills or the overflowing sink or the look on Brett's face when he opens the washer to smell the sweet aroma of clothes that have sat for two days in putrid water. But, it's there. Just this morning, I read these words from Natalie Goldberg's Writing Down the Bones and had to smile: "A writer's job is to make the ordinary come alive, to awaken ourselves to the specialness of simply being. ...A writer is a visitor from the Midwest to New York City for the first time, only she never leaves the Midwest; she sees her own town with the eyes of a tourist in New York City. And she begins to see her life this way too." Hence the magic of what my blog does for me. ...and in the process, I hope for you too.
I'll spare you the putrid water pictures and instead share a little bit of the currents that have us dwelling in a lot of Really Good lately. And in sharing our place with my family these several days, I have come to love it all the more.
This is my brother...my Bubby. He and his wife met Nella for the first time the other night and this mama's heart was swelling.
This is my sister. Amazing doesn't cut it.
This weekend, we laughed and sipped and soaked, told stories and stayed up until even the moon was tired.
Cousins swam early in the morning while the sun spilled magically into the pool.
And finally, Sunday. Oh, Sunday.
Perhaps that clipboard chick really did overlook the extra helpings.
I have talked this place up to Utopian standards and while, yes, writing about the ordinary awakens hidden magic, this place is far from ordinary anymore. And the magic? It's not hidden. It's right there for the taking. In its salty craters and exhuberant dock dives. And maybe this weekend even in the vinegar soak my niece endured after a jelly-fish swung its tentacles to her thighs.
Behold, our Isle of Capri Sunday:
Mending Barnacle Cuts:
Nella's a magnet to the sands and waters of this place. Perhaps it's all the shells I plucked from this beach on walks here when my belly was large and round, and I was holding the hand of her big sister while we pointed out crabs and little fish and I dreamed of what exactly it would look like to have our entire family here.
It looks like this.
And as we talked about Life under the palm-thatched roof of the cozy tiki hut until it was dark and raining and the beach was a mystery of moonlight and black waters, I made another grateful note on the ever-growing tally of this-right-here-is-good. 
More dollars on the beam!
Family leaves today and we are off to Montana tomorrow. While things have been unusually crazy for us this September, I know they will soon be balanced with quiet home days when excitement visits us in the less-enthusiastic form of afternoons spent simmering lentil soup, baking pumpkin bread and maybe--just maybe--landing clothes in the dryer without a rewash cycle. Either way...it's all good.
I'll be blogging from the mountains next. And looking forward to nubby sweaters and tights and staying up late talking about life with a girl I love who I've never met. Life is crazy like that.
Never mind searching for who you are. Search for the person you aspire to be. ~Robert Brault
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Family Marrow.
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284 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 284 of 284I suppose everyone has a right to say what they want, however I don't react well when people shit all over goodness. Before saying or writing anything, we should ask ourselves 3 questions: Is it kind? Is it true? And is it necessary? To the few of you who don't appreciate the message Kelle is spreading, then find another park to play in. I highly recommend being less judgemental; trust me, you'll feel better for it.Take a chill pill, scratch your itch and fall apart in your own backyard.*
*Although this statement was indeed intended to be kind, true and necessary, it may result in bouts of diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, erectile dysfunction, weight gain and increaed irritability.
janita,
ha ha ha ha oh i love it!
that was so good!
thank you for making me laugh out loud today
at your disclaimer-it was priceless
as are you
Amazing I felt like I was there with you guys! It looks like you had an amazing time!!
*shrugs* I adore this blog, and I understand completely what Emily and Jessica are conveying, as well as what Kelle is doing. As far as calling this a "controversy" or "ruckus" of some kind, I find quite silly and blown out of proportion. It's a minor criticism, and it's totally fine to have those. I may not completely agree with them, but I don't see any venom from either of them. Just a different opinion. It's totally cool to have those.
Kelle (and Poppa Rik) This is my first time writing a comment
( Actually opened up a google account today just to respond to this nonsense) You inspire me to be the best me I can be! I have been reading and enjoying and loving and crying and laughing and following this blog since Beautiful Nella was born. I feel like you are treasured friends.I want to thank you Kelle ( and Rik) for sharing your family with us. I am a mother of two and feel you totaly get life...I look forward to reading your blog/seeing the beautiful photos/and feeling good reading the comments by this wonderful blog community that loves life. Kelle,Please just delete out the haters. They don't belong here.They are just looking for the negative attention. Delete them away...God Bless your beautiful family. Gina xoxoxoxo
Emily,
Before you are "done"...please publish the link to your blog, that you refer to. Not to criticize or negatively critique it...rather to openly see your blogging soul the way Kelle so openly shares hers.
i don't know if other people say this too (because quite frankly, the comment list overwhelms me so i don't read them) but i seriously wish someday i could just meet you in person. the way you describe your life, although in general its nothing like mine, somehow its so much like mine that i feel like i'd have another person who understood my role as a mama. sometimes i'm far to pensive and over-dramatic and, in your words, a marrow-sucker, that i find it hard to find friends on the same level as me. or in the same place in life. so thank you for your far-off friendship and for unintentionally confirming that it is just as awesome to be a mama as i've always thought it to be.
-amanda (but everyone calls me goody)
I don't read and enjoy Kelle's blog because I look at her posts and desire her life of the kind of life she has. I read and enjoy because when I watch someone appreciate the random elements of their life - the big and the small - it helps me remember to do the same.
Likewise, when I blog I blog because there are things I need to say. They're not reflective of my entire life because I'm inspired to write by particular facets of my life. Some of them are difficult. Some of them are wonderful. For example, I recently had a later miscarriage and lost a baby girl. I write a lot about that. But in writing about that, I've also tried to focus on enjoying the tremendous pleasure I have of being the mother to the child I DO have here - my Gabe - and appreciating that for all it is. I have found that the more I appreciate what I have, the more I am able to positively handle (and not obsess over) my troubles and heartaches.
Does Kelle have heartaches and problems? I'm sure! She has mentioned some of them - the pains of a mother watching her child grow up, the difficulty of adjusting a dream to reflect a new reality. In the past she has talked about her husband traveling; as someone whose husband also goes through periods of travel, I'm sure that places burdens on her life. But she does not need to say all those things and more in detail in order to be authentic. In fact, depending on a person's personality and life circumstance, I think it can be LESS authentic to focus on the negative. There is a balance between positive and negative, reality and desire, and every person has to strike that balance based on what resonates in their hearts.
It also makes more sense to me when I think of this blog as a whole. After finding Nella's birth story, I went back and read many of the older posts. Kelle's voice and writing perspective sounds the same to me pre-Nella as it is post-Nella. Consistency over time is a great sign of authenticity.
Kelle - I really enjoy reading your blog. I'm not under the impression that your life is perfect or more inspired than anyone else's. But when you share your stories and pictures it reminds me to more fully enjoy the blessings I have in my life, too, and I appreciate that!
Everyone needs a "Poppa".... xxo
beautiful words. beautiful family. i found your blog several months ago, read your article in "parents" mag, and cannot get enough of you! hope you have fun in my state, MT!! taylor
I never mind a good debate, but I can't help but wonder why I, who have always been quite a sceptical person, have never seen these things in Kelle that the negative commenters here claim to see. I remember that somewhere on this blog, when I read back through it, Kelle said something about how you can find women who can be happy for you and want you to succeed without being jealous or bitter. I think I've seen a lot of that here, in the blog and in the comments. So many people who have such difficulties have commented here, but they never seem to want anything but for us all to be as happy as we can. I like them.
I'm not saying that the critics are bitter, I just think they've missed the mark in their assessment of Kelle. I know I don't know her, but I have been on other blogs written by 'nice' people who emphasise the positive, and somehow I can sense a snideness or snobbishness. Never felt that here. Only ever seen openess and a wish to find the best in everyone and not judge. I just trust my instincts that I can look in someone's face and see a kind genuine spirit, and I can know that you don't get friends like Kelle has by being some kind of fake.
Also, can we just say that this blog has beautiful skilful writing and fabulously gorgeous photos. There is room online for all kinds of people to create whatever their talent level, and good for them, but let's recognise real quality when we see it.
Sorry to go on.
i definitely read your blog to hear how wonderful every day life is through your eyes... but it makes me smile to know that you have stinky wash and dish piles too. :o) beautiful pics - i think my fav is a tie between nella in the basket and her sitting on the beach. have fun in the mountains!
I just sat down tonight to read the comments and I came across "Emily's"...I just don't understand...if you don't like the blog (any blog for that matter), log onto another website/blog, or simply hit the "x" on the top right hand corner of your screen. It's really that simple. People who read Kelle's blog and leave comments, love Kelle's blog and support and love her. If you don't like what she's saying, stop reading and log off.
Kelle, thank you for your blog and your wonderful outlook on life. I can personally say you have uplifted me on days I want to crawl back into bed and get away from the world. We who follow your blog love and appreciate the honesty, inspiration, and positive outlook on life you share with us. Thank you.
Love this post. There is nothing better than real life with family to store up memories. Thanks for sharing. You seem to capture the moments and often can put beautiful words to exactly what I'm thinking or feeling. Have a great time in Montana. Nella is adorable! My Silas is 14 months and has Ds. He has a fraternal twin and a two year old big sister. Fun and crazy times!
Nella's baby belly = beautifully luscious!
Goodness gracious! I never have time to read all the comments, but I skimmed through and am just shocked that anyone would have any ounce of ability to criticize this blog! My only logical guess is that Emily is a mama full of insecurity and maybe a lack of support and truly has not been able to enjoy the small things and really drink in the love (easy and hard) of her babes. Kelle's blog is a source of encouragement and inspiration to so many...but only to those who are willing to be encouraged and inspired will find it the fullest.
Kelle, thank you thank you thank you for the beauty you see in life and share with us!
Rik, you are wonderful! Will you please start a blog, too? Or perhaps be a "guest blogger" on Kelle's blog?
p.s. I wish I could reach in to my computer and squeeze Nella's sweet little rosy cheeks and play dress up and apply lip gloss with Lainey Love. My goodness, my two little boys would melt over your sweet darlin's!
Wow! I just saw at the bottom of the page, where you have passed 3 MILLION "Visitors". Yahoo!!
To all of Kelle’s negative “my-cup-is-half-empty-so-your-cup-cannot-be-half-full” readers -
Perhaps you can’t look beyond the grey cloud of negativity that resides above your head to find the sweet silver lining like Kelle (and Poppa - Rik) do so effortlessly. We all have our bad days and anyone who denies that is lying. But Kelle never denied having bad days - she simply didn’t write about them. And when she did write about the bad things it was the so-called “cute bad” things because no one wants to blab to their 7,056 followers that they fought with their husband over something that wasn’t such a big deal but it was the final straw. No one needs to know that looking down at her baby sometimes makes her burst into tears because she can’t bear to think of the hard times her little will face, the challenges she’ll fight to overcome and being reminded every moment of every day that sometimes life has the ability to knock the wind out of you at any given moment without any notice whatsoever. So instead of a blog filled with moaning and groaning about how life isn’t playing by the rules and that the girls were both crying relentlessly as the dog left a present under the dining room table because Kelle was trying to take five minutes to get dressed so she could head to ballet and physical therapy and a quick stop at Target on the way home to pick up milk and yes maybe some lip gloss, she instead fills her space on the vast World Wide Web with something there is not enough of in the Real World - a positive attitude, a “Dude!-My-cup-isn’t-half-full!-It’s-overflowing!” outlook in an otherwise negative place. (Sorry for the world’s longest run on sentence there! I do apologize but it can’t be broken down because I feel it would decrease the effectiveness of it all!) So instead of posting negative comments on a blog that puts an amazing spin on an average life go in search of your silver lining and look beyond what is right in front of you and soak up every ounce of goodness there is to be soaked! And if you don’t want to do that - find another blog to read. One that’s more your tone. Stop raining on Kelle’s parade - not to mention the parade of all of her readers as well.
You doubt Kelle’s humanity - read Nella’s birth story… Even Lainey’s. It shows pure emotion unedited and unbridled. I don’t believe she can get any more real than that! And to whomever said to realize that it was her “negative birth story” that brought all the attention to her blog - I feel you have missed a great deal of what Kelle has tried to pass on to her readers. Nella’s surprising birth wasn’t negative. It was simply unexpected. Life threw her (and Brett and her whole family and all of her friends) a curve ball - it stole her feet out from under her and the shock caught her breath in her chest. I don’t believe there is a single one of us that would not react in that same exact manner. She wrote so purely of that moment, of how shock took over but love prevailed. Nella’s extra chromosome is just one more small thing the Hampton’s embrace. What you consider a negative story I perceive as heartwarming, as an inspiration to a lot of people in similar situations. When Kelle claims the picture of her friends toasting to her new baby as she stared emptily, “feeling nothing” and her friends and family carried on for her, my heart near bursts with sympathy as tears well in my eyes … for a complete stranger! If that’s not real enough, not human enough for you, I don’t want to know what it would take to bring her down to a “real world” level for you. I suppose this brings us to perception - and how two people can look at one thing and see something entirely different. To me Kelle couldn’t be more real. She seems so incredibly down to Earth, in love with life and I’m sure in the midst of all that she has mornings that she has to convince herself to get out of bed but simply chooses to write about the uplifting, soul shaking beauty she has found in a world that can seem so heartless and unforgiving.
Well - with that said, I’ll move on! Hopefully you think twice before posting negative comments on a blog with thousands of “my cups half full when it’s not running over” and “I can find the sliver lining to any cloud” readers… It will not go unnoticed and unmentioned.
Poppa- Happy Belated Birthday! Oh, and another loud, whole-hearted “Amen!” from me! I do wish you would start a blog! But I suppose searching Kelle’s comments for yours will do!
Kelle (& all the Hamptons!) ~ Keep sucking every ounce of marrow that life has to offer! Don’t let a few negative comments and oh, the controversy over whether you’re “real or not” bring you down! The naysayers can’t stay quiet forever! Perhaps they’re just jealous of your beautiful girls and the wonderful life you have! Keep enjoying the small things - and sharing them all with us! I check your site daily (if not a couple of times daily) waiting for a new post to put a smile on my face, to inspire me to be more of a “my cup runneth over” kind of person instead of a “my glass is half full (empty - depending on the day)” person. You really have changed my outlook on life - not entirely … yet! But your love for life is contagious! After reading the quote from “Writing Down the Bones” I ran to Borders and bought it! I must say as I drove around my small hometown - the only place I have ever called home - I tried to look at it as an out of towner would. I fell in love with Brookfield all over again. Thanks for leading me to another great book. Have a great time in Montana! I can’t wait to see the pictures and read all about it!
Keep Rockin’ Hamptons!
~Beth
Long comment, part one:
Comments directed "against" other commenters, are sometimes well-meaning, but also sometimes divisive, and at the worst, hurtful.
Name-calling, ad hominem attacks, flames. They do not bring out our best selves. Shakespeare said it better, "...full of sound and fury, signifying nothing."
Debates, scuffles, criticisms, etc. in Kelle's comments have happened before. I am sure they will happen again. And do they change Kelle's content at all? Think about it. Would someone who "looks for the good" put much credence in "anonymous" comments which are the equivalent of graffiti taggers, spraying under the cover of night?
If someone is truly constructive, if they want to express their opinion that actually makes a difference...there are more effective methods:
1. After leaving aside any hint of sarcasm or disrespect, offer up constructive feedback that is kind yet honest. You can be truthful to your own integrity without attempting a massacre. You might find that the effect is quite enrolling. One way is to say something like "this really works about your blog...this other part...could be improved and here's how.
(cont.)
Long comment, part two:
2. Another way to make a difference is to contact Kelle privately, i.e send her an email with your honest feedback. She probably would welcome it and maybe respond, who knows if you don't try to find out. Create a new email account if need be. Do you know how many of these "constructive feedback" emails Kelle has ever received? ZERO. Her email address is listed on the Contact Me tab. Heck, if the email is respectful, she might actually publish the exchange on her blog, you never know.
So, those are the two methods that could actually move something into the direction you desire. The current way being executed is like that old saying about a tree falling in the forest. Sure, it might make you "feel better" momentarily but at the end of the day, it's a bit like flipping someone off on the freeway...a fleeting charge of "I really showed
em!" But is that putting goodness into the world, is that how you'd like to be treated, how you'd like your children to be treated?
If you are going to take the time to post a so-called "negative" comment, then you have probably visited the blog more than once and you might like parts of it but not all of it. And that's OK. You're a "stakeholder" as well. Take it to the next level by altering the method of communication, and you could be surprised: you might hit fertile ground. They say the definition of insanity is using the same method and expecting different results. Old method...not working. Try something different, mix it up.
Sending good thoughts to ALL commenters and readers of this blog.
Amazing family! Amazing girls you have! Amazing pictures!
Thank you so much for sharing!
Filipa, from Portugal
With Kelle on the road (on her way to Montana), I am not sure how soon a post will appear. Thought I would give you a glimpse of her travels. She called me while connecting on a flight in Minneapolis...she was schlepping through the airport terminal with Nella strapped on her chest, three bags hanging on her shoulders, pushing Lainey in a stroller as she made her way to the next gate...and she was laughing, Apparently Lainey had dropped a doll and a lady had semi stumbled on it and just glared at Kelle--no offer to help her, no sympathy for this solo sojourner. Again, Kelle just laughed, I am not sure I would venture on this trip--you have no idea how many hours it was from departure to arrival, but finally she called me late last night and she was safely in the car enjoying Montana's beauty with her blog friend, Dig...and she was laughing! Sheesh, I think they are going to make some memories. Make today special...and laugh.
i love kelles blog. it makes me happy to read it and to see pics of her oh so beautiful babies.
it is very uplifting
i go to a job that i hate everyday.
no really i dont hate the job.
i have a co worker i work directly with who is possibly the most miserable person i have ever met
and he shares his miserableness quite freely.
ive tried to kill him with kindness
(that made him act worse)
ive tried praying really hard for him,
didnt help.
now i just ignore him and do my best to pretend he isnt there.
the man is 47 lives at home lets his parents take care of him
and seems to find great joy in others trials.
i dont know what happened to him to make him so miserable, but i refuse to let him bring me down
although right now it seems to be his one goal in life- to bring me down.
i made my work area across from him visually as pleasant as possible with lots of pictures of my sweet grandarlings and listen to positive music and do my best to pretend he isnt there. i have to to be able to keep coming back everyday. okay my rants done!
god bless kelle
and her lovley blog.
Okay, Cathy, I am now praying for him too...praying he gets another job offer he can't refuse and your life brightens! Seriously, I am praying for you. I am sure he would be a trial for anyone. I worked with a cynical, bitter person once and I really, really tried to make things better. I wish I could tell you he changed. He didn't. He eventually was actually let go. Strangely, I felt bad for him and actually kept in contact with him through email. I still do. He has new reasons to be bitter. I am afraid he will be until he leaves this world. If he makes it to heaven, he will probably complain there. I cannot fix what I cannot fix. But I am afraid I will always want to. May the bubble around you be bright today!
Hi Kelle - I have been reading your blog for sometime now and came across it while reading up on DS. Our beautiful baby niece was born with that extra special chromosome 4 years ago. Your love for life was something and still is something I could soooooo relate to. Life is worth living. My life has recently been turned upside down and I surprised myself by finding out how cathartic blogging is. I recently began to chronicle this recent tragedy and wanted to share with you. www.familyrestored.blogspot.com
Just thought I'd pass on. Enjoy!
rik,
thank you so much for your bright wishes for my bubble!
you are a very sweet person.
i guess we all know someone who is miserable to the point that they would probably even complain in heaven.tee hee! you have such a way with words. i love it.
this young -ish heathy mans mom fell down some steps last year and broke her hip, and my co worker was very upset because as he said- his words- " now who will cut the grass?! and he was dead serious.
ugh ugh ugh
thanks for brightening my day rik
smile god luvs ya!
Nella's little turned in feet in the sand - scrumptous!
TO FEAS613- Thank you for your great words! And to POPPA RIK**- thanks for the update on Kelle. I hope she just has fun and she can share with us when she returns. Poppa, i sense that you can be a prayer warrior, as I've seen you mention here before. YOu know i'm a 'regular' here. I feel we are family, community here. I shared in a comment yesterday how I'm going thru real dark times, heart-breaking and gut-wrenching. Seriously, one of the worst things ever for me. Could you pray for me? I'd so appreciate it. thanks and love to you, Poppa, and Kelle and family. From Kelle's appointed "blog mama", Linda~
Linda, I already was...you are not alone in the dark. These shadows will not last. Your heart will not hurt forever. I love a couple phrases that have helped me: Mother Teresa: "The heart stretched out by sorrow, God later fills with joy." and an Old Testament promise: "I will restore to you what the locusts have taken." Not sure if these help you, but they do me. Did God ever anticipate the connections of blogworld? Ha...I think so!
Oh, RIK, I heart you. Thank you SO very much. Yep, I've been feeling very alone. You don't know how much it means to me, your connecting and your praying. Oh, those words you just wrote do so help me and I will tape those to my mirror, as I have others! Indeed, perhaps God did anticipate the connections of blogworld. hee.. And how much it is needed in this world of busyness and isolation for some. I know, it is the "virtual world/reality", but I really feel like I know you thru all the words and sharing, and Kelle. You are such a bright light, as is Kelle. You have such a heart and spirit. I know that you touch many here, and you are doing more good and helping more than you may know. I wish I could give you a hug in real time, but I am sending you hugs. I keep trying to focus on the fact that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it won't be a train coming. ha.. Love, Linda ~
I enjoyed this post and some amazing pictures, Nella asleep in her Moses basket and Lainey making sand balls on the beach :) I truly cherish what Kelle's blog and amazing photography-stories help me do...be more present in the small things in MY life. Not that I wasn't present before I stumbled into this blog but now I am more concious of how beautiful and important these small things really are.
Hope you're having a fabulous trip Kelle!
linda,
im praying for you too
that the bad times will soon end
and there will be so much light you ll need your sunglasses.
heres one i really like-
"He heals the broken-hearted and bandages their wounds." ps 147;3
and you so right about rik and kelle,they are gems who make a difference in this world.
linda,
im praying for you too
that the bad times will soon end
and there will be so much light you ll need your sunglasses.
heres one i really like-
"He heals the broken-hearted and bandages their wounds." ps 147;3
and you so right about rik and kelle,they are gems who make a difference in this world.
Super beautiful family pictures. Can't wait to see what Montana brings....
Poppa Rik, thanks for the travel updates of Kelle. Gosh that lady who stepped on Lainey's doll probably has never had any kindness in her life to be able to offer it back. :o(
People need to learn to just pay it forward and it becomes contagious!
I too look forward to the next post! I know all too well the joy of meeting people in real life where our stories began online. I have had 4 families come stay with us and have been to 2 reunions with many where our stories began online. People think I am crazy! Well, these people are all still in my life and we are very close.
:o)
Jennifer
Oh, CATHY, Thank you so much. Hugs to you ((( ))). Bless you. Really, many blessings to you, too, and Rik and Kelle. I love the quote from the Bible that you wrote. I guess, the really dark times will make us appreciate the light even more. And i like your words about needing sunglasses. Kinda reminds me of that song from late 80's (?) or such, the line "My future's so bright, I gotta wear shades". Luv, Linda~
Simply said, family marrow....I love it!
When I ran in the door this morning holding my copy of the oh so wonderful parents magazine, my husband thought I was nuts. I have been following your blog long before Nella was born and I cannot even express how much I enjoy your posts. As a photographer I find joy in the little things and your blog is infectious and one of those little things I enjoy daily. Even if it is just editing away while listening to your blog music. Thank You for putting your life out there so we can look at our lives and soak up just a little more than we thought we could.
Want to give Poppa Rik a big big BIG hug for your last post (9/15, 8:19am). That is all I'm saying because I couldn't say it any better than you.
-Jenny from Iowa
P.S. And I too would like to check our your blog Emily! :)
Linda, I clicked on your profile after I read your first couple of comments on this post. I thought, she sounds like such a great character. But I saw that like me you don't have a blog at present. But anyway, I want to tell you too that you're not alone. I wish I could be on hand but, if not being alone in a virtual sense is a comfort I am sure I'm not the only one thinking of you after reading your post, and sending you lots of well wishes and hugs. Hope you see some relief from your difficulties soon, but till then I think the fact that even with your current troubles you've been on here showing vivacity and humour and good wishes for others....well, it is a good sign that you are a strong and lovely person. Lucy xoxoxo
Ps. Sorry to hijack the comments board! Maybe someone needs to set up a forum for all us readers!
Linda (aka blog mama) - Thinking of you!!
Can't wait to hear all about what Kelle and Dig are up to in Montana!
Jill B (Overland Park, KS)
Rik- thanks for the update on Kelle! And no doubt she's getting a kick out of the juggling airport act...that's what happens when ya love life. :) When life gives you a crowded airport, full hands and a dropped baby doll, give a smile and remember the whole scenario so you can blog about it and share with the rest of us how to enjoy the small things...and continue to inspire and encourage all of us bloggers! :)
Kelle! Beautiful as usual!
I live in Missoula too (yet have never actually met nici), and I am so excited for your bunch to soak in the wonderful Montana air.
After months and months of reading about your life, I'm excited to see how you camera captures the place that I've called home my entire life!
Safe Travels!
Laci
Oh, LUCY, THANK YOU so very much. Well, I am humbled by your kind words about me. No, I don't have a blog. I am a novice - Kelle's blog is my only venture into that world. ha..Yes, I do try to always keep a sense of humor and realize many people have problems. your words mean so much. And JILL - HEY to you, I remember you here! Thank you for your kind words too. I know, we almost need a forum for all of us. Take care~
When two spirits meet and for a fleeting second hold each other in the fast current of life, it is no accident--so never apologize about "hijacking the comments!"
What a gorgeous weekend! Have a wonderful trip to Montana.
I can so relate to you, especially in your first paragraph. I can let myself go down that highway at jet speed. I love your pictures and words. I write about the daily nonsense of life in a humorous way, but today I wrote about Alzheimers, a BIG change, and I'm feeling "the fear" of wondering how it will be taken by my readers. I'll get back to making fun of all the nonsense of family life tomorrow but at least I tried something new?? Thanks for inspiring the rest of us.
Hi Kelle! I'm sorry you are going thru all this stuff. Just ignore them.
Anyway, I don't know if you read all these comments, that would be difficult.
Have a wonderful trip to my Montana! We go to Lakeside Montana for the summer and at Christmas. We live in Orlando. If you can try to get to Flathead lake, it's 2 hours north of where you are. It's an amazing lake and a beautiful drive.
Enjoy your trip and the weather!
KarenSue
I just want to kiss little Nella. I love her sitting on the sand, her little legs poking straigt ahead like arrows. You always make me realize while things may not be perfect, they are how they are supposed to be. There is a reason for things to be the way they are, and I am concentrating much more on being happy with what we have and my choices then ever before. And you remind me that spending my time loving on my baby is soooo worth it. They get big so fast...
Hope you have fun on vacation!
I just want to kiss little Nella. I love her sitting on the sand, her little legs poking straigt ahead like arrows. You always make me realize while things may not be perfect, they are how they are supposed to be. There is a reason for things to be the way they are, and I am concentrating much more on being happy with what we have and my choices then ever before. And you remind me that spending my time loving on my baby is soooo worth it. They get big so fast...
Hope you have fun on vacation!
I just want to kiss little Nella. I love her sitting on the sand, her little legs poking straigt ahead like arrows. You always make me realize while things may not be perfect, they are how they are supposed to be. There is a reason for things to be the way they are, and I am concentrating much more on being happy with what we have and my choices then ever before. And you remind me that spending my time loving on my baby is soooo worth it. They get big so fast...
Hope you have fun on vacation!
OH POPPA RIK - thank you. You said what I was thinking, but surely said it much better. YES. Lucy, surely there is no need to apoligize for hijacking. I just love how you worded this, Rik, so simply, yet perfectly and beautifully as always. I have truly been helped by your words here, and Lucy and Jill's. Just feeling the love and care of others. Many blessings to you~
oh. my. word. i LOOOOOOOVE the pic of your sis and her girls all jumping in the water. i HOPE they put that on their Christmas card. that photo is PRICELESS. jealous...
You guys are always doing the funnest things!! I love all the photos! especially the one of Nella in the sand and her sleeping in the basket. She is absolutely beautiful and so very precious.
LOVE LOVE LOVE Nella in the sand.
Your brother is gorgeous!
shit...i feel like i have been M.I.A on your posts. shit i just hate that!! oh my lordy..kelle..now what are you doing not pleasing EVERYONE in the blogosphere again!?!?!?!? shit girl what are you thinking!!?!?! i will leave you with one of my favorite quotes :
"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everbody."...Bill Cosby.
ok..here is another truly valuable tidbit from Bill:
A word to the wise ain't necessary, it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
stupid people piss me off..just sayin' ♥
To GraceesMommy...OH, I just LOVE what you wrote!! Love the quotes, too~
Reading old an old post and found this...
"Back to the bus. The thing is, I hate being sad. I hate being negative. And while I may be teased on my over-positivity or need to find a cape emblazoned with "Enjoying the @#!*-ing Small Things," I too wallow in a bad mood from time to time. However, I've found I am quite healed by the Fake It Till You Make It Strategy--searching for the good (and there's lots to find), writing about the good, taking pictures of the good, talking about the good--basically bathing in the many little things that bring joy to our life until I am no longer faking it, I believe it completely and have allowed the good to rise above the bad in that ever present glass of "Half Full." Unrealistic? Perhaps, but I don't think so. Regardless, I'd much rather live life as an unrealistic optimist than a realistic miserable pessimist. It's so much more fun."
You are brilliant I tell ya! Just brilliant. I think this tidbit settles the whole thing LOL...seriously!!
Sounds like you are having a blast.
Beautiful. Beautiful post. I love your writing and I love how you make me feel when I read your posts.... Happy about life again. It is too easy to get wrapped up in the things that are not going right or the laundry that is still sitting in the washer!
I love that quote you ended with, I'll be using that! Thanks!
Kelle, your blog has become my daily fresh breath, after all day in the classroom. I get my baby fix, and get to enjoy your fantastic writing. I feel like i am with you and your beautiful family. I am a mom of five, one adopted with special needs. Please keep on, it is amazing. The girls look so happy all the time...Dana McQuien
wow, I usually skim the comments (looking for Poppas comments which are always another treat for the heart and soul the way Kelle's words are). I am stunned about the negative comments. I struggle sometimes with what to include on my own personal blog when I'm feeling stressed and its not always positive but it helps me get it out and I usually feel like I can better put it in perspective. I MUCH prefer Kelle's outlook and she helps inspire me even on the hard days to look for that silver lining always. There are so many blessings and gifts in this life and I much prefer the way Kelle sees the world than the naysayers. Thank you Kelle for sharing your life and wisdom and sweet family with us!!!
Absolutely gorgeous photos! I'm here from SITS and see you have 270 comments right now so I'm going to peruse your site to see if I can figure out where in FL you live.
I just moved to Venice, FL from WI and yes, yes, yes!!!! The sun is soooooooo different here than it is "up north".
It's so refreshing to visit a blog that radiates so much positivity. Your ability to focus on the GOOD and BEAUTIFUL in life is inspiring. Sure, we all have our days when things don't go as planned, but this outlook is one I think we should try to adopt whenever possible.
Looks like you had a great time with the family. Pictures are breathtaking :)
Your photos are so beautiful! I could spend all day browsing through them (and I just might!) And photography tips for other bloggers? :)
I read Nella's birth story first thing this morning with tears running down my face. So beautiful. So honest. As the mother of a special needs child, I related to so much of your emotional journey.
Your words and pictures do such a wonderful job of showing the world just how beautiful and perfect both your children are. I'm so glad I found your blog and I'll definitely be coming back.
Amanda
"Life is a Spectrum"
www.AmandaBroadfoot.com
Glad there is no need to apologise! Just seen the latest post, happy that another blogging connection is going so well.
First off, it looks like a little piece of paradise where you are. And what glorious pictures. Everyone looks so joyful -- full of life and love.
Secondly, I understand your feelings about a shoe dropping. I like to live life 100 percent with optimism but there is always a hidden part of me that is just waiting for the happiness plate from the buffet. You put my thoughts into words so beautifully!
:-)
Traci
love this post and your explaining about how you see life -- i think it has a lot to do with gratitude journalling :)
It looks like you guys all had an amazing time and your photos are simply breathtaking.
stopping by from your feature on SITS. what an amazing story you have. I read Nella's birth story and cried my eyes out.... she is sooo beautiful!!! what a doll and how bold of you to open up your heart like that.
God has blessed you with 2 beautiful girls....
Beautiful blog, beautiful photography!
Randi @ MommyReview.com
I'm new to your blog (found you on SITS), but I will definitely return as often as I can. Your post about your trip lifted my spirits this Monday morning. The pictures are absolutely breathtaking!
I have to see Isle of Capri myself, you make it look so wonderful. We went down to Clearwater recently and had such a nice time, I thought about you when we were down there.
Thanks for all the beauty and also for reminding us here and there that you are human also.
(and why is it that all the haters don't have blogs linked in their profile? Not that I have one, but I am reading the blogs I love and not hot the ones I do not)
The baby in the basket - I love that photo so much.
Hubby loves it too!
Love your blog. You put so much thought and creativity into your words. I look forward to pouring over your posts every single time.
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