Enjoying the Small Things

Different Strokes, Same Folks.

2012-01-27T17:47:00.000-08:00

New York delivered, as can be expected. And by that I mean I found the word unicorn carved into the cement somewhere along 5th Ave. If you're going to deface the public's walking foundation of a great city, I suggest you choose a word like "unicorn" to do so. I don't think it's a misdemeanor if its intent is positivity--which explains the presence of so many spray-painted "God Loves Yous" and "Jesus Saves" under overpasses.

And if New York didn't bring it with its mystical creature sidewalk vandalism, it surely did with its offering of cleverly titled shops. Case in Point:

It's the lactation kingdom of the Upper West Side, its walls covered with an impressive display of pump parts and nursing bras that hang like expensive art in a gallery. I didn't think I'd have any issues with missing a couple days of nursing Nella as it's winding to a close anyway, and I wasn't sure she was even getting anything (this milk/boob discussion's getting slightly uncomfortable). Needless to say, I had to stop by this breast kept secret for some equipment, shall we say. I asked to get hooked up with the cheapest, easiest solution which turned out to be something that resembled a cross between a PVC pipe, a giant syringe and a victrola. If you've ever seen a breast pump (okay, I officially don't love the word "breast"), you know exactly what I mean by victrola. And then try using it in a public bathroom stall. What did I learn from all this? Well, I learned never to admit you're going to throw your rhymes-with-quest milk away when you're standing in the middle of a shop dedicated to holy mother's milk. You might as well just light a hundred dollar bill on fire. When you are asked what you plan to do with your "expressed milk" (still uncomfortable) and if you need a bottle/ice bags/insulated iron safe in which to keep it, just smile and say "yes" and "yes" and "of course."

Oh, but I'm getting utterly sidetracked now.

Back to New York.

E. 46th St.

I was going to write this post with the whole angle of leaving my kids and what that was like and this dual life we have of mothering, nurturing, loving and yet fostering our own passions and dreams as well. How it kind of melds together, pushes and pulls and generally works out in the end.

I loved every minute of New York and yet my true statement of "I let go, I enjoyed me time, I knew the kids were just fine without me" can be contradicted by the same truth of "I missed them and thought about them all the time." If that makes any sense.

For me though, the more interesting angle on this trip is the realization of just how alike we all are. Moms, not moms, New Yorkers, Midwesterners, Cab Drivers, what have you. My favorite thing about traveling a little more the last two years has been meeting people. People who live completely different lives, enjoy different pastimes, like different music, jobs, food, etc.

I've always had a tendency to be very conscious of what made me different in social settings. Not necessarily to be intimidated by it but at least to be aware that standing in the middle of a busy street, unfolding a giant NY map or hailing a cab the "wrong" way made me stand out. To be sitting at a table with beautiful, successful New York single women and have that moment of "I'm the crafty dork mom who keeps checking her phone for pictures of her kids." The more I really spend time with people though--open myself up to different atmospheres, allow myself to relax and really listen to people, be moved by the rhythms of different cities and landscapes, backgrounds and life stories--the less I notice what makes us different. And the more I become aware of what makes us the same.

Alta, W. 10th St.

Surrounded by the colorful culture of New York City these past few days and weaving together the several encounters I had with different people, I'm inspired by the ever present truth of...we are all the same. Despite how many bright yellow taxis pepper our streets or what passions we pursue, how we dress, where we work, what we eat--we all want the same thing. To seek adventure, find comfort, connect with others. To relate, to feel good, to be recognized for our efforts. To be good at something. To love and be loved. To feel happy.

St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, Midtown Manhattan

It felt really good this week to explore the city, meet new people and reconnect with old friends. While the past 48 hours were efficiently filled with a lot of work (a couple meetings and some very last tie-up work for the book), my friend Meg saw to it we had some fun as well.

Other Desert Cities at Lincoln Center Theater; a captivating well-written show

Times Square

Holy Cow, was it a fast trip.

Sweet Mother of Buttercream Frosting

It rained 2 out of 2 1/2 days there.

But completely inspiring and invigorating. Even in the rain.

That medley of wet reflections and steam that seeps out from manhole covers and sort of dances along the dark, slick streets? It's poetic. Lovely.

Street Corner Hot Pretzels and Roasted Chestnuts

And yes, I missed them.

I did so well at being present and really enjoying the opportunity to be alone, sleep (for the first time in three years!), move from one location to another without taking a head check, buckling seat belts or making sure to grab a to-go snack; but I missed them, truly. You get to a certain point in motherhood where, no matter how much fun you're having, you just subconsciously breathe your children. You can smell them even when you're not purposely thinking about them. You can feel their arms around your neck, their breath on your shoulder. You hear them whisper good night even when, by the time you climb in bed, they've long been asleep several hundred miles away. Brett's mom said yesterday Nella walked all day. Just took off for good and didn't look back. Because she's two now and Sister knows it.

I almost cried when we got home and realized Grandma was right. Walking is now Nella's transportation mode of choice, and she's good at it. Quick, smooth and agile.

Just another thing that makes us very much the same.

*****

Friday Photo Dump:

Friday Phone Dump photos are taken on the Instagram iPhone app (free) and dropped into a 12x12 collage using a photo editing software (Photoshop Elements works). I am @etst (enjoying the small things) on Instagram if you want to follow the feed.

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Introducing new sponsor, Crystal & Co. Crystal is a Texas mom of five boys with a mommy resource site where she shares easy recipes (most can be made in a crock pot), crafty tutorials, meal planning ideas and solutions for every mom. Crystal & Co. features D.I.Y. crafts including a great current Valentine's Day crayon making craft with a free printable.

Check her out.

*****

One Week and $10,000 to go. Look how far we've come! 2 for 2 just needs a little more pushin'.

*****

Have the breast weekend evah.

Weekend: She ate cake.

2012-01-23T17:38:00.000-08:00

Want the satisfaction of feeling all adventurous-go-get-'em without really having to go get 'em? Make a bucket list of very doable things and then do them. Cross them off your list with a big fat red marker just for the heck of it.

Like...
Eat day-old birthday cake using my hands for a plate. Check.
Brush my teeth with Dora bubble gum toothpaste. Check.
Do a crappy job painting my toenails and don't bother to clean up the smudges. Check, check.

Ooooh, look at me, I'm knockin' off my bucket list.

'Tis true, there are cake crumbs, a bubble gum after taste and a pedicure that looks like I painted my toes with a blindfold. I ran out of polish remover. Thankfully, I'm headed to a closed toe shoe region later this week.

*****

Our weekend was quiet and homey, just the way it's supposed to be.

Brett and I cleaned the house together yesterday, making trades like "I'll do the kitchen if you do the bathroom." It all came together swimmingly for a perfect evening of family and celebrating two very special years.

I didn't even notice when 4:24 p.m. slipped by. We were busy, happy, making cake.

I started shoving candles into her cake and convinced myself that more candles represented more love. So I used the whole box and lit that muthah on fire.

Brett practiced blowing out candles with her all day yesterday so that by the time her moment was up, Sister took a bow.

Three out of four sets of grandparents (ah, the one bonus of divorce) allowed for a more harmonious chorus of "Happy Birthday," and oh, did it feel wonderful to have a house full.

Right before bed, Heidi said "I love you" to Nella, and you know what my girl said back? "Love you." We reacted appropriately. Like maybe we fell off the couch.

I am feeling content today. Exactly where I'm supposed to be--over my funk, productive, reflective, slow and steady.

For all the times I write about an imbalance--feeling too busy, uninspired, a creative bang, a high, a low, a when's-it-going-to-iron-out--it's assuring to know, there is a rhythm to all of it. Right now, in this tiny moment of time, work and family feel so appropriately melded. I feel both inspired and at peace; motivated and content; excited and calm; and even if that balance shifts tomorrow, its presence right now is enough to remind me, it works out. Ebb and Flow, Shift and Settle.

For the first time since before kids, I'm traveling alone this week. Two nights without babies. While I am expecting a smidge of chest-constricting angst as I board a plane solo, I am surprisingly at peace, knowing this is good for all of us, and my babies will be well taken care of.

Bucket List #148: Take a trip to the big city...alone.
Check.

Lainey's Chinese Dragon tee, Happy Family

*****

Our new sponsor has a very generous offer for us this week. I am delighted to introduce Happy Family, a shop you'll find very useful if stylin' it up with more color and character is on your bucket list.

I posted this picture on Instagram (@etst) this week and received several requests for the t-shirt source:

Word: Happy Family. Stocked with hand screen printed tees, messenger bags, potholders and totes, Happy Family has fun, conversation-sparking goods for men, women, children and babies.

Nella's birthday tee:

..and my funky camera tee:

Happy Family is donating 20% of all their proceeds this week to Nella's 2 for 2 Fund--an even better reason to shop! Please mention Nella's 2 for 2 Fund in the seller notes.

Happy Shopping!

*****

We are almost only $10,000 away from our goal of $200,000 raised for the NDSS for Nella's second birthday. 2 for 2 will continue until Nella's Tea for Two party next month. It's not too late to share, to give, to continue the efforts of many...to make a difference. Thank you so much for everything you've done to support our community.

*****

Wednesday's post might look a little something like this, sans sweet baby along for the ride.

a birthday post

2012-01-22T04:25:00.000-08:00

It is easy to say "two years ago." Two years isn't a very long time, and the memories of her welcome, for the most part, are still clear. I remember what it feels like to cry so desperately that relief breaths can only come in short, stomach-jerking gasps. And, days later, how I listened to this song and this song, clutching to every word, praying it would be true--that we would be okay.

In the first two years, we talk about then and now, the difference between these two abstract eras distinct and concrete. But as the bridge between these two places slowly grows, the distinction likewise fades. A moment that changed me forever, yes; but the outcome a product of what was there all along. I had the love. I had the strength and courage. I was so capable of being her mama. I just didn't know it.

I think about that a lot--how I am the same person today as I was the day before she was born even though it doesn't seem true. How I am the same person I am today as I will be thirty years from now. What stones will be unturned in life--whether victories or challenges--to reveal more love, more courage, more understanding? We evolve.

As Cher would say, if I could turn back time...

I would take that little body and hold it closer, breathe her in, study her long fingers and smooth pink cheeks and let my soul do what it begged to do--to connect with its counterpart and fully accept her as the gift we needed. I would wrap my body around her, smell her, kiss her, draw her right into the place she needed to be and let her feel a purer love. I would trace her features with wonder rather than apprehension and know that her tired little frown would evolve...just like we would.

And while this day represents so much more, really it's about a little girl who was born. A daughter who came to be, a sister who arrived, a baby like any other who just needed to be loved.

Oh, how she is loved.

This morning she woke up early--early enough I had to check the clock to make sure it wasn't still the middle of the night. I heard the rattle of the crib railing and her happy whispers, and I finally reluctantly climbed out to welcome the day with her. I feel her low muscle tone most when I pull her from the crib. There is no resistance, no independent efforts to stand tall and pull her weight, and I love that. Every ounce of her sinks into my grasp as I lift her and pull her close, her bottom settling into my forearm, her hands touching my face, her chest fully dropping into my shoulder. I remember pregnancy yoga classes and how long it took the instructor to guide us into this kind of limber physical release. "Let go of your shoulders. Imagine your chest is dropping. Now release your leg muscles, your thighs, your calves...let go of it all. Submit to the peace in your inner soul," she'd exhort and even after all those steps, there was still a part I couldn't let go. After that experience I realize low muscle tone is hardly a disability. It's an enviable ability...to just be.

We walked out into the dark living room, her head still resting on my shoulder. "Is it your birthday?" I whispered. She pulled her head up and smiled. "Yeah," she answered. I thought about exactly where I was two years ago. Counting contractions. Waiting for the doctor to call. Knowing I'd finally get to meet my daughter.

It feels good to skip over the rest--to look back at the dark and difficult moments and stop right when it hurts to run and hold her. Like getting through the awful suspenseful parts in a movie you've already seen--not so bad when you know it ends well.

It's two years later--not long, but long enough to know...it ends well.

No matter what happens, it ends well because life is bigger than scripts and sets and how-it's-supposed-to-bes.

And before I quote another singer--God forbid, Richard Marx--let me cut to the chase.

Dude, these two years have been grand. And we love her. We love our children with a deeper, purer love that is so infinite, it cannot be shaken.

Happy Birthday, Nella.

You are everything we ever wanted. I only wish we would have been cool enough to know it then.

We know now. We love you so much, Birthday Girl. And we celebrate you today.

And thank you, little girl, for my birth day--what gift that day, those moments, those tears will always be.

"Awareness born of love is the only force that can bring healing and renewal. Out of our love for another person, we become more willing to let our old identities wither and fall away, and enter a dark night of the soul, so that we may stand naked once more in the presence of the great mystery that lies at the core of our being. This is how love ripens us -by warming us from within, inspiring us to break out of our shell, and lighting our way through the dark passage to new birth." -John Welwood

Little Changes, Good Changes

2012-01-20T18:34:00.000-08:00

Turns out the run the other night was just the beginning, the preview of exorcisms to come.

Last night, it was the toy basket liner--the one that always slips down all cock-eyed every time I throw a toy in, trapping doll shoes and Mr. Potato Head arms so no one can find them. I'd finally had it. I tossed a harmonica and down it went, behind the liner, and I couldn't untie the little knots that secured it to the basket for the life of me. So I did what any self-respecting mother would do. I lost it. I took the basket and dumped it upside down in a crazed upheaval that sent toys crashing to the wood floor--some I hadn't seen in years--and I ripped that #@$*!@& basket liner out and threw it away like it was the first step toward a more peaceful future. And it was.

Aw, hell done just broke loose. I weeded out toys. I dusted my coffee table. I assured a group of baby dolls that Goodwill was a great place to live, and when I filled two garbage bags full of things to give away and finally put the kids to bed, I sat on my kitchen counter and convinced Brett to listen to one of my doozies--the once-every-three-month really deep life conversation. And though this all may seem unnecessarily dramatic, I've realized this reaction is part of who I am. No matter how many personality quizzes I've taken--even if I try and alter the outcome by Christmas-treeing my way through questions, it is inevitable my diagnosis says "Hey, you're impulsive! Hey, you're emotional!" If emotions were an English breakfast tea, let's just say I let my tea steep so long and so strong until just a sip of it demands action: spit it out, throw it out, make new tea, talk about the tea, write a tea thesis. Get a degree in tea studies, start a tea company and change the tea world. I've long tried to balance things better--slower, more thoughtful, more analyzed but, at the same time, concentrated emotion propels me into action in some sort of revolutionary way. I've been asked so many times if it would have been easier to have a prenatal diagnosis for Down syndrome, and I can honestly say I know myself well enough to believe the shock and heightened emotion of that moment was important for me. Deprogramming, in a way. A distinct slate-cleansing beginning.

I'm all about clean slate beginnings. The important issue, regardless of whether we attend to every quiet emotion the second it arises or wait until things are a great big ball of "you better fix this shit," is that we attend to emotions at all. Listen to them, learn from them.

There is no life-altering crisis here. In fact, a mind x-ray would reveal things that might be trite and silly to some, hardly reason for a deep life conversation or going apeshit on a toy basket. There are however a lot of little things I can change right now--bad habits, inattentive routines, shift of focus.
For all the times I spent crying on my bed when I was younger because, God forbid, my world was changing a little bit, I've realized somewhere around thirty, I developed a healty addiction to the very thing I've hated my whole life...change. Change is growth, and without it we are stagnant. Stale. Boring.

Shake it up, Baby.

We talked about change last night. About wanting to be better and making deliberate efforts to deposit time and affection in the family bank. When things get busy, it is so easy to turn on Little Bear for Lainey, serve quick and easy dinners, throw towels next to the bathtub, scratch washing my face before bed. But it doesn't feel good after a while. And I want to feel good.

So I wrote a tea thesis. Took change to the tenth power and deprogrammed--or rather reprogrammed--little things around the house that seemed symbolic. Rearranged the living room, swapped out picture frames, packed up the 12 month clothes and put them away. No Little Bear today. New accessible book stacks and puzzle piles.

Today was quiet and thougtful and felt a little bit new. I dug up a pair of shoes I haven't worn in ages. Twisted my hair into braids for something different. Chose an alternate path to the lake.

Seriously, she falls asleep at the lake every time.

I used to think emotional "funks" would just ride out on their own--grab a board, ride the wave. I find more comfort now though in the truth they hold. Funks aren't the cause of emotions; they are the effect--messages to which we need to listen and respond.

Whether our response is monumental or something as simple as rearranging a living room or cleaning out a toy bin, it's the action of responding that is empowering--funk-erasing.

I'm finding such clarity in just the initiation of changed behaviors. I moved a poetry book to my nightstand this morning, added a couple new items to my bucket list today, had an ice cream date with new friends.

And I feel invigorated. Ready to take on the tea world.

*****

While new is great, old standbys are comfy and reassuring too.

Like best friends.

Same old park.

Post holiday return to baking.

Friday Photo Dumps.

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In keeping with being kinder to myself, I'm excited about taking time for a skincare regimen before bed instead of a splash 'n go, especially since I have a new skincare set from our latest sponsor Muvazi. Muvazi skin products are paraben free and made with natural ingredients. Their anti-aging skin care system is made up of a cleanser/toner, an oxygentic eye cream, an intra-cellular moisturizer and a hydrating face serum, and I feel like a badass now when I'm actually taking the time before bed to wash and moisturize my skin.

And the best part? Buy a skincare system using code 'nella' at check-out, and your $119 skin care system is only $79.95/free shipping, plus $5 will be donated to Nella's" 2 for 2 fund for every kit sold.

*****

That reminds me. Sister's got a birthday this weekend.

Since Tuesday's post, another $25,000 has been raised for Nella's 2 for 2. We are beyond grateful. Every state has been represented, and over 200 international donations have been made from 15 countries. And Molly Dunn, a reader's 10-year old daughter we have never met, will once again give up her birthday presents this year in lieu of donations to Nella's birthday fund (thank you, sweet Molly). I think that the Internet can be a grand place, and you people prove that the world is full of kindness and incredible intentions. With $20,000 to go, the fund is still kickin'.

We are looking forward to celebrating our girl's memorable entrance into our lives this weekend. There will be cake. And I will cry.

If you feel so inclined, leave a comment sharing any small changes in your life that you'd love to initiate to shake things up. Make new tea.

Helping Yourself

2012-01-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

I sat down a couple hours ago to write this post. Had a halfway decent string of thought going, some good pictures, a window of opportunity while Brett entertained the kids before bed. But as I tapped out the first few sentences, I realized I felt jittery and unfocused--a present feeling that couldn't be ignored once I sat down and attempted to clear my thoughts enough to write. I love that about writing--the space it requires gives such clarity to my feelings or at least draws attention to its absence.

My to-do list is ripe right now, and my time and thoughts are being fractioned into too many areas--most of them fulfilling but still stretching me a bit uncomfortably. I've felt a little edgy and off until finally tonight, in a moment of Priority Triage, I realized I haven't been kind to myself.

I turned my computer off, fetched my running shoes, hollered to Brett something about needing to "reclaim my mind" and ran out the door. I didn't even bother to stretch but rather threw myself into a steady pace, desperate to connect with that part of myself I've ignored for a little while--the quiet inner voice that sacrifices its needs first when other responsibilities call but withers soon enough if it's not fed, slowly taking with it inspiration, confidence, motivation, contentment. And while sacrificing taking care of our own selves most often feels good because we're giving to someone else--our kids, our family, our community, our friends--it only lasts so long. The source from which you give must grow as well. And tonight I realized, I need to fill it up. I need more sleep, more calm, more exercise, more pleasure reading, more thoughtful food choices, more time alone with my husband, more quotes, more music, more quiet moments with my girls.

I ran like nobody's business tonight. Felt the quiet voice that's been submerged for a bit reawaken with my very first stride. "I'm alive! I'm alive!" she cried. Florence and the Machine belted out "The Dog Days," and I sprinted through the black spaces between each streetlight and slowed down at every yellow glow to two-step a kicky move to the "like a bullet in the baaaaaaaaack" line. And I wonder why I don't make time for this every night. Suddenly, clarity.

I didn't run a marathon tonight. Didn't need to. I did run an effortless three blocks and then turned around to make an introspective walk home. I noticed the wind, the stars, the way the blood rushed to my fingertips and made them itch. I noticed myself, something I've forgotten to do lately.

We cannot make good mamas, good wives, good friends if we don't.

Two little girls in mismatched jammies welcomed me back home, and I took over bedtime routines, kicking off my shoes and climbing into our big bed for story time.

"I can do it if you need to write," Brett offered.

"Dude, I just had an exorcism, I'm good." I replied, pointing to my shoes.

There will be more of this. It is so re-energizing, inspiring, needful. Those flight attendants know what they're talking about: put your own oxygen mask on first before assisting someone else.

*****

Today, in photos and very few words:

The Lake.

The Sky.

The Driveway Neighborhood Friend Gathering.

The Newborn Fix #2 this Week with my friend Erin's baby, Ethan

The Post Bun Waves

My friend, Kim, makes these killer snap barrettes

*****

Back in tomorrow for a short little something special.
Thank you so much for sharing our 2 for 2 post. Watching the ticker move is an inspiring pastime around here these days.

Good night.

For $40,0000.

2012-01-17T15:59:00.000-08:00

A little over $40,000 to go.
We can do this.

Please join us in spreading the word. Every child is important. Every child deserves a promising future.

Help us in our 2 for 2 initiative. $200,000 to support the National Down Syndrome Society in honor of Nella's two sweet years of life. Please share our video and our message--help us raise awareness for a more tolerant society that embraces and celebrates differences.

Visit Nella's 2 for 2 Fund to donate.

Thank you to everyone who shared videos. I wish I could have used them all. I have saved them and hope to use them in the future. Your children are so beautiful, and your pride and willingness to share their gifts with the world is so endearing. Thank you.

Weekend Celebrations

2012-01-16T20:13:00.000-08:00

Our Weekend:

We are well now, our house thoroughly disinfected by my germ conscious husband. Besides predicting weather patterns and diagnosing ailments, Brett happens to dabble in germ-spreading prevention as well. I'm going to be kind and call it a "hobby," although there are a few other terms that come to mind by which I'd like to refer to it.

Appropriately timed for a good home cleanse, we've enjoyed a nice cool front which has prompted open doors and windows and a steady current of germ-sweeping airflow. We spent more time outdoors this weekend, the medley of blue sky, filtered sunlight and cool, crisp air reminiscent of early spring days up north.

I like the layers of tank top-plus-sweater-plus-jacket that shifted throughout the day this weekend. And socks--seriously. I can never find a pair of matching socks for my kids. Ever. We get by on sandals and bare feet so much down here, when socks are actually a necessity, I just start digging to the back of drawers and the bottom of laundry baskets praying I'll find two socks--matching and appropriate size total bonuses.

*****

Saturday evening, we celebrated Heidi's baby who will debut in less than a couple of months. I love seeing my friend so happy. She is anticipating this little tag-a-long with such beautifully expressed enthusiasm, and it felt so good to share it in an evening of maternal praise.

Our friend Wylie made homemade pizzas which were out of this world

I am so thankful for my friend, a constant support and continued source of laughter. And babies? Oh, we know how to celebrate babies round here. This one is no different--infinitely loved.

Shower attendees taking turns wearing my fake very refective glasses.

And because my friend is super human, not only did she go to bed late after the shower, but she hauled her bump out the next night for karaoke. Sang and danced a pregnant jig. And my oh my, did we ever have fun last night.

*****

It's funny, here I was packing up my Christmas tree last week, hesitant to close shop because I was sad to let go of celebration, and yet January has done nothing so far but call for more of it. Babies and birthdays and friends and all the little things that continue to unfold all year long, inviting little bits of fanfare, toasts of gratitude, occasions for togetherness and remembrance.

Dancing to celebrate another year.

Happy Birthday, Cash & Rocco!

Welcoming new babies.

Lainey gave up face painting, balloon art, dancing and a slew of her friends to hold Baby Ethan at the birthday party. It's her favorite place to be--holding a baby. I may be raising an introvert, but Sister's like her mama when it comes to the babies.

We visited my birthday buddy, Baby Sage, today. She is yummy.

And I noticed even more this weekend, my big sister girl has some precious nurturing qualities.

This morning, I wrapped Nella in a towel and set her down while I drained the tub after her bath. Of course she escaped the towel shackles as I heard her palms slap the tile down the hallway a second later and saw a wet footprint trail out the bathroom door. By the time I cleaned up and headed to find her, she was fully dressed--diaper, shirt, pants--and all properly done. Lainey was smiling. "I dressed her," she proudly confessed.

*****

Our girl turns two in less than a week--hard to believe.

Nella's shirt, Tea Collection, half price clearance now

Things have been a little crazy this month and I'm traveling for the first time by myself next week for a couple days, so we moved her party to February. This weekend will be special though, and her day will no doubt receive its deserving honor. Tonight, I watched a short segment on NBC Nightly News about a gorgeous little boy with Down syndrome who is being featured in Target and Nordstrom ads and how, while this is deservedly getting attention, really it's no big deal--just exactly as it should be. This isn't the first time a child with special needs has been included in a major ad, and it definitely isn't the last time. But I still smiled and cried watching it. I just feel so entirely grateful to be a part of this--to have two children who are different, beautiful and bright. To raise a child with special needs during an age when all the hard work of other families is being recognized. Life wouldn't have been the same for us thirty years ago and it won't be the same thirty years from now if together we continue to broaden our perspective. I am thankful for the message of acceptance and inclusion--a way that has been paved for our family by so many other families before us. And I am encouraged to continue the fight for more. Please keep the message spreading and help us reach our goal of 2 for 2. Final countdown and a little more than $40,000 to go.

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There's a winter sale going on over at our Dashing Bee sponsor. Remember, Dashing Bee is an online consignment shop for baby and kid gear. I had fun making some favorite picks from the shop tonight to throw a few outfits together. Everything you see is currently for sale on their site and, better yet...incredibly affordable.

All winter items and shoes are 20% off now. Use Code WINTER20 at checkout for your discount.
Happy Shopping.

*****

I'll be stopping by more frequently this week with some special posts. Until then, we'll be enjoyin'. Hope you will too.

I got this.

2012-01-13T12:53:00.000-08:00

No offense to male readers or my husband, but I am about to generalize all men based on my observations of one. Ready? Here goes.

Men can't handle sickness like women can.

There. My unfair statement of the year. As I write this, I holler to Brett in the kitchen, "Do you care if I write about how you suck at handling sickness?"

Long Pause.

Him: "Sure." Because Brutha knows what's true.

Needless to say, our house is a hot mess of stomach flu germs right now. I'll spare you the gnarly details, but the middle of the night last night was a disaster--Nella waking up to nurse at the same time Lainey lunged to puke, Brett moaning with body aches and then--kid you not--Brandyn flinging open a door with a towel to his face and the flu evidence all over the floor. All at the same time.

I hate when my kids are sick, but I'll tell you what--there's something about the vulnerability of kids not feeling well that demands the most beautiful moments of motherhood. I take it as an opportunity for a brilliant performance, as tired as I may be. Because there is no other option. They need me, simple as that. I am the only one who can fix it. And so I'm on--aware, awake and ready to deliver the kind of care that will sear memories of precious maternal moments for my girls.

So, there we were last night at two in the morning, Nella nursing on one side while Lainey moaned in my other arm, and a pile of sheets that needed to be washed at my feet. I smiled and whispered that it was going to be okay, that it would be over soon, that I was right here and I wasn't going anywhere. Brett looked at me helplessly, ignoring his own body aches for a moment as if he could help.

I smiled. "Go, Babe. I got this."

Patting myself on the back? Hell yeah, I am. So much it was actually the first thing I said to Brett this morning. I annoyingly fished for a compliment. "Dude, how good can I do the sick kid thing?"

"This is true," he confessed. "You got it down, Babe."

And I guess, for all the times in this parenthood thing we don't feel like we really know what we're doing, there are these glorious moments like last night when you just feel like you were born to do this. Like your love for your kids gives you some sort of special powers, and you know you feel it--the super human strength of a mother's love. For the record, when those moments come, it's totally okay to brag about them.

So I did.

*****

A precious moment today during physical therapy...Nella was just too tired to finish her session, so she fell asleep in Jonah's arms instead.

All that commotion last night, and Sister didn't get a good night's sleep.

*****

Friday Photo Dump:

Friday Phone Dump photos are taken on the Instagram iPhone app (free) and dropped into a 12x12 collage using a photo editing software (Photoshop Elements works). I am "etst" on Instagram if you want to follow the feed.

*****

On to some matters of business.

First, my friend Nici--the one I traveled across the country to meet last year--well, she has a lovely blog that many of you read. Long story short, she lost her URL due to an expired credit card stored in GoDaddy's registry. She tried to buy it back and instead, they auctioned it off to someone who is trying to sell it for nearly $5000 which she, of course, is not paying. So, Word, dig this chick has a new URL.

*****

Next...

$154,000, Dude. Seriously. Heart swells. This is amazing stuff, and I know it's not over. Thank you. Keep it rolling, and I'll be back next week with more sentiments on 2 for 2.

*****

I so enjoyed reading your comments of your chosen words for the year and found myself shaking my head to so many of them. Yes, breathe; yes, laugh; yes, adventure!

The Bloom galley copy giveaway winners are:

Comment #1411, Emily: my word for this year is present. i want to focus on being more present with my girls when i'm with them.
thrilled to read your book!!

Comment #1992, andrijoy: My goal is continued gratitude. When one gives thanks each day, happiness follows and others feel renewed by your peace. I am currently grateful for my son, Wes. He is not here yet, but he has already taught my husband and I so much about love, humility, gratitude and grace. We are one of the lucky few who have also won those designer genes just like Nella. I am lucky beyond words to be given such a wonderful gift. I look forward to reading your book.
XOXO

Comment #28, Cynthia: Oh my goodness! I would just looove a galley copy! How fun that your book will be here for all to see so soon?
My word for this year? Generosity.
A general reminder to do even more in all my relationships :)

Congratulations! Please e-mail your mailing address to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net with the subject line "GALLEY WINNER," and your signed book will soon be in the mail!

*****

Our new sponsor joining this month happens to have a valuable tool I could use right now--organization, peace of mind, schedule streamlining. Introducing, Hatchedit.com, a mobile whiteboard for families to keep track of their personal lives through calendars, blog/news feeds, group chatting, address books, etc.--ALL IN ONE PLACE. Hatchedit.com membership is free, and schedules can be managed from any computer as well as both Android and iPhone apps. Become the CEO of your family, and simplify your life by letting Hatchedit.com do the scheduling and reminders for you.

Check them out, sign up!

*****

Last but not least. I finally finished Nella's Second Year Book. I get a lot of questions about these books. I make them for each of my girls' birthdays, and the creation is a long and gradual process. While it looks like tons of work, I make these spreads throughout the entire year. I wake up before everyone else a couple Saturday mornings a month, get my coffee and head to the office where I'll work on these books for an hour or so. I do it because I love it, and the product happens to make my girls very happy too. I order my books through Shutterfly (100 page, hard bound book--they've lasted great), and I create all of my own 12 x 12 spreads in my old Microsoft Digital Image Suite standby.

Click here to see the book.

I'm hoping for a puke free night. That would be nice. But if not...
...I got this.

Contentment

2012-01-12T07:10:00.000-08:00

Last week's return home initiated a jolting change of pace. I hate to say it, but I'm busy. The last few nights, I've debated whether to stay up and knock things off my list or head to bed to make me clear-headed for tomorrow. Sleep usually wins, and I thank myself the next morning.

There are a lot of projects on my plate right now, but they are all important. They make me happy, and I'm not willing to give any of them up. I have learned so many times before not to stress--everything always works out. Jobs get finished, things get done.

Yesterday was nuts. The to-do list on the side of my keyboard began with a bulleted list and grew by the hour with scribbled add-ons and reminder notes. And so I did the only thing I knew to do--I walked away to spend an hour with my kids, the most effective motivation stimulant I know.

We took an afternoon bubble bath.

Followed by a walk to the mountains.

That one hour--that renewing break of stepping away from the list and into what matters most--replenished my balance and settled my uneasiness. Sometimes that's all it takes.

Lainey's been "babysitting" Poppa's puppy, and it hasn't left her arms in two days.

*****

We are once again humbled and inspired by the momentum of generosity for Nella's 2 for 2 Fund. Thank you, sincerely, for your comments, for sharing, for giving. We (you!) raised $20,000 in 24 hours. Less than two weeks to go...let's keep it moving.

*****

And finally, a fun Thursday giveaway. I have a few galley copies left of Bloom. What's a galley, you ask? A galley is a pre-publication press copy that gets printed before a book's final edits and release. It's not as pretty as the real thing (the hardback "real" book will have over 100 full color photos printed throughout), but it's the story which is the most important part.

Three commenters on this post will be mailed a galley copy of Bloom: Finding Beauty in the Unexpected, and I'll write a little note in it for you. Nella read through it and approved it for release, so we're all good now. It's a go.

Pre-order a copy of Bloom at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indiebound or Books A Million.

We did this last year and I loved it, so tell me...if you had to focus on one word for 2012, what would it be?

Mine? Contentment. No matter what we are doing, how busy we are, what we have or don't have...I will be content in the moment.

2 for 2: Pay it Forward

2012-01-10T12:24:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to write this post all day. I've promised myself that I will never write something that's important to me unless I really feel it. Well, this is important.

While the easy current of everyday life may make us forget about Down syndrome a lot, we are two weeks away from the anniversary of a day when the idea of Down syndrome weighed so heavily on me, I lost myself for a moment.

The word anniversary just doesn't do that day justice now. It's a celebration. Of her. Of how we've changed. Of all the beauty in the world we overlooked for so long.

I was recently asked what my favorite post from 2011 was. I thought about it for a moment, scanning through memories of old posts--personal things, funny things, happy things--and then it dawned on me. It's the post I wrote to launch Nella's ONEder Fund last year. Why? Because I learned from it. I was nervous to set a $15,000 goal, thinking we wouldn't get there. And the impact that followed? Over $100,000...because of you. How much I learned those weeks--about the other families in our D.S. community, about the generosity of people I had never met, about the magnitude of effect we all possess.

We're doing it again--asking for your help, setting out to remember January 22, 2010 in a way that will help make life better for anyone who possesses the magic of the extra 21st chromosome.

This year, we are launching the 2 for 2 Fund--hoping to raise $200,000 by the time Nella turns two. We're more than half way there, thanks to you. A little more than $75,000 to go.

Every dollar given to the 2 for 2 Fund supports the NDSS whose mission is to to be the national advocate for the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.

Things are changing in our society, but it's only because people are working hard to change stereotypes, to recognize abilities and to tear down walls of discrimination.

I come to you as a mama.

What does any mom want for her child? Hope. Hope for a successful future, happiness, the opportunity to fulfill dreams.

And when you're told your child has Down syndrome, for a moment, you think you have to give all that up.

Thanks to the NDSS and many others that join our cause, there is hope. We want the world to know that people with Down syndrome are doing great things with their wild and precious lives.

Just ask Leah.

Or Michael.

Talk to Jon about adventure.

Or Josh & Nicole about love.

I am ecstatic about the potential for what our kids will do in twenty years. What will the future hold for Nella's friends?

Like Millie.

And Drew.

And Sophia Rose.

And Kayla who, by the way, can read. Big words in big books. And she can write. Because Sister is amazing.

I know these families. I've shared e-mails and phone calls and have met many of these kids and their parents, and all we want is for the world to see what we see.

That Lily is just like any other kid.

And George? Well, ask his siblings. One of them recently told his mom, "Mom, does it ever bother you that everyone in our family loves George best instead of you?"

Perhaps the best spokespeople of all for these kids are their brothers and sisters.

Kate and her brother

Nora and her family

I don't want anyone to ever tell me that my child's dreams are limited because of an extra chromosome.

Aaron

Alex

Sarah & Levi

And so I'm asking you for something. For Nella. For our family. For all these beautiful capable children and their families and thousands of others.

Please give back. If you are a regular reader of this blog, here's an opportunity to pay for a subscription. Whatever you can give. A whole 'lotta $5 and $10 donations went a long way last year. We can do it again.

For her birthday, we ask you to help us make a home run. 2 for 2, Baby.

Join with us in raising awareness and creating more opportunities for individuals, more hope for families.

Share on your Facebook, e-mail it, spread the word.

We are sincerely grateful as are the hundreds of other families who celebrate their own little magic.

Two years ago, right now? I had no idea what was in store. How could I ever had known how much joy that baby was going to bring us? I want the world to know that joy. Help me do it.

Two Weeks. Two Hundred Thousand Dollars. We can do it.

Click on any of the links to the 2 for 2 Fund in this post, click on the 2 for 2 banner at the top of the site, or click on the 2 for 2 logo in the sidebar to give.

Thank you, thank you.

Stream of Consciousness

2012-01-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

I did a lot of writing this weekend. Enough that I want to step away from structure and focus and just fall into a heap on my favorite stream-of-consciousness pillow.
Which is exactly what I think I'll do.

There's this thing I discovered tonight that rocked my world. It's the "Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong" station on Pandora. Lawd, I done lost my jazz-lovin' mind. Five seconds into Dream a Little Dream of Me and suddenly my pajamas transformed into a slinky black dress, my bun into pin curls, and my lukewarm beer into an Old Fashioned. All of this is a fantasy of mine. I'm thinking theme party someday.

Changing subjects.

Since Friday, I've spent most of my time like this:

Nella got my flu bug Friday night, recovered by Saturday night, and then backslid even worse into Fluville again last night and slept/whimpered/clung to me all day today.

Then, out of nowhere, the veil lifted late tonight. She raised her head off my chest, smiled and said "Yeah!" And then she ate a bowl of popcorn, and we cheered "She's back!"

Which is fantastic. I missed her spirit.

While she was sick, Brett and I alternated single child care so that we both spent some rare quality time with just one. My just one time with Lainey last night had us heading to the beach, an excursion I've been craving since returning from its Michigan contrast.

I miss the snow but really, this isn't so bad.

An African drum group circled in the sand and beat out this enchanting rhythm that not only transformed the sunset into even more of a spirtual experience but called to all the bikini wearin' girls like the sirens so that, by the time the sun hit the horizon, there was all sorts of crazy going on. And by that, I mean gyrating bouncing breasts. I spared you the photo.

I begged Lainey to dance with me--maybe not the breast bouncing kind, but I at least wanted to give the African thing our best shot. When in Rome, you know? I barely put my hands in the air and threw a hip out there, and she yanked my arm and loudly whispered, "Please stop dancing." I feel this is only the beginning of mother-embarrasses-child moments.

Little Child has much to learn. Little Child must learn to dance. I will teach her.

The full moon was obviously a'comin, because African drum dances weren't the only beach entertainment. There were sunset hula hoopers too.

We reigned it in with a rainbow sherbet/strawberry cone toast at the Beach Store post sunset.

And today? Well, it called for paper boat sailing.

We started fancy--me impressing my child with my boat-making skills and upping the ante with my brilliant idea to shove a bamboo skewer in the sail and add some flashy tape to jazz it up. For a moment, she forgave me for busting a move on the beach.

But my relationship with physics pretty much blows, and between the thin paper, the bamboo skewer, all that tape and the fact that I failed to plan this out--well, let's just say the boat never made it out. It tipped and sunk.

We're determined though. We talked it out and redrew our plans. We went for simple and streamlined with just a touch of added flair in Lainey's handcut orange sail. It worked.

The ugly ducks applauded.

The remainder of the weekend was spent enjoying periods when Nella felt good, when the sky was vivid and locals posted versions of "what a beautiful day" all over their Facebook walls.

'Tis true. It was lovely.

The last of our Christmas decorations have been packed up, and I am feeling invigorated to clean, upturn, throw away and rearrange. Finally, things feel back to normal, minus a half-unpacked suitcase.

*****

Welcoming the first of this year's sponsors, returning sponsor Dashing Bee. Dashing Bee is an online consignment store, offering inexpensive, gently used items from clothing and toys to baby gear and room decor. The store is well-stocked, continually updated, and navigating through their merchandise is a breeze. Before you spend top dollar for big items like bikes and strollers or smaller items like new shoes, dance wear or a dress for that upcoming birthday party, check out Dashing Bee.

All of the above items are currently for sale on the site.

Use Code DASHING5 for 5% off your order.

*****

Tomorrow, I will return with a special post in honor of a sweet girl's upcoming birthday.

Happy Monday, Y'all!

Friday Quicky

2012-01-06T20:06:00.000-08:00

Today I loved...

Watching the girls make up for seven days without Daddy.

There were so many moments where eyes locked and melty smiles could have been bottled and sold.

Today I loved...

Settling into old routines. Like mismatched pajamas, french toast and kitchen art projects when the sun has barely risen.

Today I loved...

Opening packages that arrived while we were gone. My friend Meg sends the most thoughtful gifts which have included cupcakes from the best bakery in NYC and a blinged-out Run DMC baby t-shirt. The girls were thrilled with her latest find--a solar powered rainbow maker.

Come morning when the eastern sun comes pouring in our front window, little rainbows dance around the room like disco ball flare.

And we catch them. On our feet.

On our faces.

And if you've never caught a rainbow, might I suggest you try.

Thank you, Meg. xoxo

Today I loved...

Watching Sophie tear up this bone like Cujo. And laughing every time Latte tried to discretely sidle up beside her to get some of the action only to be put right back in her place. No worries, I made it fair with a piece of cheese.

Today I loved...

Catching Nella peacefully ponder life, post cracker snack.

Today I loved...

Finding a place for a piece of faraway home in our living room.

And a little Friday photo dump, cherry on top. These pics seem like a million years ago, and my heart gets all achy reliving that special week.

bottom row, last pic? why yes, those are glitter shoes--hand mod-podged by my friend, Rebecca, who made them for my birthday. Giddyup, Unicorn.

Friday Phone Dump photos are taken on the Instagram iPhone app (free) and dropped into a 12x12 collage using a photo editing software (Photoshop Elements works). I am "etst" on Instagram if you want to follow the feed.

Oh, I just had to pull these two out:

Now, go catch some rainbows this weekend.

Home

2012-01-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

Home has had a double meaning this week, defining both going home and coming home--the former nostalgic and inspiring; the latter--well, the same, I guess. Knowing last night was our last among such a different landscape--one that had me slayed and hesitant to give up--I obsessively drank it in. I took two walks on the snowy trail behind my cousin's house yesterday, each with a different child.

My cousin Joann, who might as well just be a sister.

I watched more attentively as the sky changed from a cold white to an elusive periwinkle come dusk.

I made note of how cozy it was to fall asleep between my girls, under the warmth of an electric blanket, lulled to sleep by wind that whistled outside a frosty window. And I breathed in the contentment of knowing just past our bedroom door was a hallway that led to family. Little cousins, big cousins. That has been the best part of all of this.

The girls offered their help with Cousin Brooklyn's homework. Brooklyn even let Lainey write in some answers...because it was just a "rough draft."

I lived in Michigan for twenty-four years and never realized that snow-dusted pines or the silhouette of a bare-boned tree against icy blue sky was so breathtaking. I don't know if it's being away for so long, growing up, or gaining more photographic perspective, but Good Lord, I could not shut up about just how picturesque my home state is.

Houghton Lake

I took a gazillion photos, practically hopping out of the back seat while the car was still moving to catch a barn in the snow, a bird in the snow, a vibrant-colored anything against the cold white snow. A little something I learned: I dig snow photography. So much, I made my cousin's girls brave the wind one afternoon for a sister shoot.

And I was shocked at just how much my sun babies loved the change in pace. They never complained about the cold--not once.

I love when sisters hold hands, unprompted.

Lainey and I made a snow bunny yesterday, my snow specialty.

He now resides in my cousin's garage freezer.

Followed by hot cocoa.

Favorite moments?

Thinking so many times to myself, "Lainey will never ever forget this trip." I imagined how she will describe it years from now--how it carved little grooves in her memory of the importance of family, the thrill of adventure, the inspiration of new places and experiences.

Giving the girls nightly baths in the big tub and all the cousin girls coming in to the bathroom to circle the tub and talk while they soaked.

A true Michigan welcome of grilled venison tenderloin dinner.

Cousin time.

Thank you, Lisa, for coming up to see us! xoxo

Following trails of snow tracks and listening as Lainey hypothesized on all the things it could be. She concluded it was "a scary kitty."

Watching the budding walker. She's been walking for a while, but this trip she really walked. Like determinedly. Falling down and getting right back up. And she likes to wear glasses while she does it. They're courage glasses.

Getting to attend my little cousin's cheer practice and watching my girls adoringly take it in.

Seeing Lainey stop and drop a snow angel like it was her job.

Cocoa mustaches.

Anything red in the snow. Barns, walls, scarves. They've got a thing going there, that red and white combo.

And finally, I am loving coming home. A different one that might not have bewitching tree skeletons in the snow or icy blue night skies or evergreen trails that beg for walks with blankets and mittens and hats, but still nostalgic and inspiring--warm and energetic. As our plane descended into Fort Myers tonight, I began gathering our coats and hats with which we boarded and tucking them away in our carry-on. The vast blue Gulf slowly came into view, its waters magically catching the light from the late afternoon sun. I was again inspired with new perspective. How wonderful it is to live by the sea.

It was strange walking in tonight, the tree still lit, toys we forgot about lined against bedroom walls, the familiar scent of "our home" drawing me in. It took being gone so long to come back and realize our home has a scent--a welcoming, cozy signature scent that is ours.

I woke up in the middle of the night last night with the stomach flu--so bad, I was certain we'd have to change our flight. But I knew it was time to come home, and I was ready. After the most trying flight of my life (girls were great, I was a hot mess), I can't tell you what a relief it was to walk in our home tonight and feel the comfort of our own space and the promise of what it holds for this year.

I am ready to embrace new creativity and the productive storm that follows a good needed rest. I am so inspired by this past week--just the fuel I need.

Wherever home may be, there are so many ways to appreciate it.

Mitten State Hollah

2012-01-03T06:52:00.000-08:00

I don't know where to begin. Especially when I'm, again, holed up in a restaurant (Big Boy, thank you very much) with WiFi for a short time with the pressure of ripping this post off before my pancakes arrive. Needless to say, this disconnect thing has been such a good thing for me. I feel relaxed and present.

And, Lawd have Mercy, did Mother Nature ever deliver.

It snowed all day yesterday--thick white flakes that fell fast and caught the sun as they made their journey to the already thick blanket below them so that it looked like glitter--a unicorn concept I fully appreciate. I guess it takes coming back to realize just how beautiful your home state is because I don't remember ever seeing it this way. It's spellbinding.

And now it's time for the breakdown.

Family time at the cottage was magic, the perfect balance between planned and laid-back with many comedic moments of "it wasn't supposed to go this way" in between--like when we let a sky lantern loose at midnight on New Year's and instead of it escorting our 2012 dreams in a graceful float into the black sky, it got caught in a tree and shriveled into ashes. Go 2012. Whoo!

We bundled up for cold morning walks on the lake, returned for hot cocoa and games, watched movies, and perfected the art of nothingness.

Parenting has been effortless as the girls have been scooped up and entertained by so many, the sight of which is always endearing.

My favorites so far...

Fireside hot chocolate.

Practicing our Ice Skating Moves.

We're taking our doubles routine to Nationals.

Our cottage night time routine.

Finding an abandoned store in Johannesburg and jumping out to model with the creepy mannequins.

Spud Warehouse in Gaylord.

Trains in the Snow.

A sight I rarely get to see: my bundled babies with rosy cheeks.

Tubing at Hanson Hills in Grayling.

This picture.

Having to retake this picture with my sibs five times because it was snowing so hard, we couldn't keep the lens clean.

This picture.

Watching my brother's dog run free on the lake.

Our infamous quilt being dragged in the snow.

Hats. Sweaters. Colorful scarves. Good Lord, I miss these clothes.

The irony of sun catchers against a snowy window.

Doing Facetime with Daddy. We miss him. We love technology.

Sledboarding in a man's dress coat. You should try it.

Being with my sister.

The frozen lake.

Michigan holly.

Finding everything is more photogenic against snow.

Taking over the bar at the Lewiston Lodge the last night at the cottage. My dad and Gary watched the little kids while the big kids took off to make a grand finale of our last night. There was a jukebox, a line-up of siblings and cousins...and a whole lot of laughter.

I haven't written or worked or even checked an e-mail in the last four days and as much I'm beginning to feel a little itchy to start working again, I know this time of family and rest has been so beneficial--like a farmer giving a field a rest before planting a new crop. This next year is going to be a good harvest. I can feel it.

I forgot last Friday's Phone Dump:

We're finishing the week off in Houghton Lake with my cousin's family and will soon be back home.

Have a great week.

straw, taters & hay...and a very happy new year to you.

2011-12-30T13:05:00.000-08:00

I know my last post said something about me learning to stop disclaiming things this year. But listen. I have to give a disclaimer.

Cue disclaimer.

The following post must be read with the understanding that I am high on snow fumes, family, views of chalets and red holly contrasting crisp white snow drifts. If a reindeer married a unicorn, their love child would be this post. That is all. I'm going to proceed now.

Wait. One more thing. I have to set the present scene: I'm in a chalet-looking McDonalds in the heart of Gaylord, MI (the only place with cell phone service or WiFi around here). I'm at "the bar," if you can call it that in McDonalds--a formica counter with a swivel chair. And, you bet, I am swiveling my heart out. There's a hot cherry pie next to me. And snow from the window's view. And Louis Armstrong is belting a Christmas carol because these northern Michigan people know how to do it right--it's still Christmas here.

On the way into Gaylord, we spotted about 352 picturesque barns, countless fields of sheep and cows and horses, and somewhere in the middle of it all, a big sign that said "Straw, Taters and Hay." Which is all I needed to see to have a Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday and big fat lovely New Year all in one.

Which reminds me...Happy New Year.

A trip down Enjoying the Small Things Memory Lane of headers this year.

******

Back to right now.

Oh, I am happy. We are in the middle of nowhere, there is snow, there is a cottage with a wood stove and quilts, and there are two happy girls experiencing things for the first time.

Like building a snowman.

Or trudging out in the snow early in the morning for a walk on a frozen lake.

It was hauntingly beautiful--white as far as you could see, and silent except for the wet crunch of boots to snow and the contant scratching of the toboggan as it slid across the ice.

Last night, we got to see my mom and George (visiting from NY), my grandma, and a whole slew of cousins before we drove North. Such a nice bonus to our trip.

Blinged out leopard print cane and bigass ring. My grandma is my hero. One of the most amazing women I know.

Then, while babies slept in the car, we drove three hours North to Lewiston, Michigan and arrived late to a little cottage in the snowy woods.

Gary's family built this cottage when he was a little boy. I asked my dad for a hair dryer this morning and he erupted in laughter as he fetched me this still-in-the-box Norelco Shape 'n Dry from the 70's.

Dude, don't underestimate the power of the Shape 'n Dry. Needless to say, it shapes. And it dries. It has attachments. And this brilliant feature where it shuts off every 30 seconds to prevent it from overheating. And it smells like burning plastic and smoke when you use it. You only wish you had a Shape 'n Dry.

No seriously, this cottage is so the bomb. I want to live here. It is so full of character and history and charm.

Lainey chose one of the rooms to be her play clinic. My dad and Gary and I all took turns today as patients, sprawled out under quilts and following her instructions for M&M and chocolate chip pills.

Both girls have adapted beautifully to different temperatures. Lainey asks to play in the snow every half hour, and Nella smiles with rosy cheeks and the reflection of snow in her bright blue eyes.

Tomorrow, my brother and sister and families arrive. And this sentimental mama wants to cry/laugh/do a unicorn dance every hour, on the hour...because I am happy.

I intended to go back and talk about my favorite moments from this year. But the past is overshadowed right now by this perfect present.

More from Michigan soon.

2012 is going to be grand. I've been thinking about resolutions--because that's just what you do this time of year. I want to find more ways to let the people I love know I appreciate them. I want to let go a little more--of fears, of insecurities, ot the things that hold me back. Wild and free, Baby. Wild and Free.

Tell me, tell me...what are you going to do this year?

Kiss someone you love at midnight tomorrow. No matter where you are in life, know that new years bring new beginnings. Make it grand.

P.S. Someone turns two pretty soon, and I'm comin' back to ask you to help us make it matter for a lot people that need it. Be prepared. I'm going to need your help.

Oh, happy happy new year. Big hugs from a happy girl.

Thirty-three

2011-12-28T17:23:00.000-08:00

I had a photo shoot last night for some family friends. I haven't done a shoot in a while, and last night's called for a little drive--a quiet, hour-long straight shot down 951 to a serene beach on the southern end of Marco Island.

I realized ten minutes into the trip--once the traffic lights grew sparse and the feeling of being "out there", away from the hubbub of familiar surroundings, settled in--I needed this drive, appropriately timed right when my year is coming to such a definitive close. I also realized just how much I love having my birthday at the very end of the year. For all the eye rolls and sympathetic "God, that must have sucked," I've received upon telling my birth date, I can tell you, an end-of-the-year birthday ain't that bad. In fact, I smiled when I woke up early this morning to find a text from my friend in the hospital: "Our little angel was born at 3:21 a.m. 7 lb 5 oz. Perfect and bald!" it said. This sweet little sister shares my birthday, and I can't wait to tell her all about December 29th, the end of a year in more ways than one. That's like two conclusions in one book. Reflection squared.

Now that Christmas music has been properly disposed of (R.I.P., dear Bing--we'll reunite next year), my drive last night consisted of different tunes. Loud ones. Motivating ones. Anthems that had me slapping the steering wheel and twisting the rear view mirror just long enough so I could face Thirty-two at the end of its glory and bid it goodbye with a ceremonious application of red lipstick--Toast of New York, to be precise.

I've been reading old posts the last couple weeks--my way of rolling up everything I've learned this last year and storing it properly before the new "furniture" arrives. I read through everything I wrote the weeks after Nella was born, and I cried, humbled by my vulnerability then. As much as the time that's followed has been such an exponential slope of growth, I miss some of the brokenness that existed in such a raw emotional state. Don't get me wrong, I'm perfectly content not having some life-changing obstacle to face, thank you very much. But there is a part of me that recognizes the importance of being broken, of never knowing too much, of being so vulnerable that the possibility for transformation is breathtakingly real. I don't ever want to lose that--not at thirty-three, not at forty-three, not at eighty-three.

From all of that--not just the last two years, but the important thirty before them as well--I've learned that every year brings more experiences, more layers, more character chiseling--a gradual metamorphosis into a better, brighter, wiser, more compassionate being. And that fact alone makes birthdays and new years thrilling. I whole-heartedly embrace Thirty-three today.

And, as traditional ceremonies go, I write a little ditty on my birthday of what I've learned this year.

With no further ado...

1. I learned I love In 'N Out burgers.

2. I finally learned, after years of messing with my hair and attempting blonde that turned into gold/orange/butt-ugly-bronze, my mom was right. Pick a color and stay. It's been three years now, and I can say with certainty...Hi, I'm a brunette. For good.

3. I'm learning to stop apologizing and disclaiming things I say. It only weakens a statement.

4. There is nothing so time critical that you can't stop for ten minutes and play with your kids.

5. You can never ever say "I love you" too much.

6. I've learned not to push away uncomfortable feelings. Embrace them. Learn from them.

7. I like dressing up. It makes me happy. Skirts, cute heels, red lipstick, hats. It's art to me, and I do it because I like it. I used to make crap up like "I had an appointment" as if I had to have a reason to wear a cute blouse. You know what? Sometimes I wear them in my house. On Saturdays. When I have no place to go. Because it makes me happy.

8. Find things that make you happy. Do them.

9. I like to travel. But I like coming home just as much.

10. I've learned a "spiritual guru" is a treasure. I have a few wise souls I run to when I need wisdom. They don't always tell me what I want to hear. And I love that.

11. It's okay to define the kind of mom you are as you go along. And it might look different than everyone else's definition.

12. Keep learning. Push yourself. Ask questions. Read books. Google topics. Try something new. But not skateboarding because you'll fall and nearly break your neck.

13. Family is everything. Family is everything. Family is everything.

14. Friendships get better with age. Every year, I sink into friendships a little more comfortably. I love my friends. I need them.

15. Admit your faults and embrace them. Never give up on changing, and be patient with the time it takes.

16. I've learned there are so many ways to be grateful and to express it.

17. I've learned to get Thai take-out as spicy as you want, you have to say "Thai hot hot hot hot hot." Five hots.

18. Music is a part of me. I breathe in quarter notes. Music changes my moods, inspires me, motivates me, speaks to me.

19. Cheap toys break. Quality toys are worth the splurge...you'll pass them on to grandkids someday.

20. Birthdays are special. Celebrate them.

I'd keep this list going, but I have a plane to catch. My in-laws surprised me for my birthday. I'm taking the girls to Michigan, and this weekend my family will be huddled up in a cottage in Northern Michigan, clinking glasses and catching up.

Be still my thirty-three year old heart.

I'll pop in Friday for a happy new year.

Until then...

'Sup? It's Christmas

2011-12-26T16:17:00.000-08:00

It's still Christmas, we are saying--because I need to say that to stave off the blasted decrescendo of post-Christmas let-down. When I was little, I think every year on the night of my birthday, I curled up into a pathetic sulking half-moon on my bed and cried that it was over--all the festivities I had anticipated for so long. Nothing to show for them but some crumpled gift bags, a few deflated "Happy Birthday" balloons and a wilted Christmas tree that only reminded me I had to wait an entire year to feel it again.

And I realize now how silly I was.
There are so many special and celebratory moments and events that are evenly woven into more quiet months, and I'm excited for what a new year will hold for our family. I'm excited about moving forward.

Not quite yet though. Still lingering a little longer right here.

Brett's parents got Lainey this campfire. It's the bomb--so much I've played with it myself...without the kids.

We excitedly scurried Christmas Eve, tying up loose ends, taping up the last gifts, and stocking up on good cheese, red wine, and little treats we wouldn't ordinarily splurge on. Like maraschino cherries and bleu cheese stuffed olives.

Lainey wanted to make cookies that spelled out Santa's name. I went through all the trouble of tediously whittling a butter knife through dough that kept falling apart, and then I burned them later and threw them out. Thankfully, Lainey forgot.

Christmas Eve night? Dreamy, dreamy. Lainey's excitement emanated from her smile, her breathless fast talk, her eyes that got big when she listened to our play-by-play of just what would happen that night.

We left this little doll next to the reindeer food so the reindeer could have "something to play with while Santa's inside," as Lainey brilliantly schemed.

Sleigh Runway, courtesy of Daddy

I wish I could say this candle thing has some deep ceremonious meaning. You can make one up as you see fit. Really, my kid just likes candles and every special event in our home (birthdays, anniversaries, tossing a shirt and having it land in the laundry basket on the first try) includes some kind of lights-turned-off/candles lit/made-up song ceremony.

This year, we swayed our candles back and forth while Lainey commanded us to repeat after her. Like "Happy Christmas, I love you, Reindeer are coming in the sky, Nella don't touch my candle."

It was ~~beautiful~~ funny.

I stayed up far too late Christmas Eve--wrapping, rolling dough, making sure everything was just right. And it was so entirely worth it when I finally slipped into bed and kept my eyes open just long enough to take it all in--the twinkly lights above our head board, the babies next to us, the silence in the darkness and the gratitude that engraved a little deeper within. Amidst my exhaustion, I felt content.

The boys arrived late Christmas Eve and come morning, when Nella was the first to welcome Christmas with her fingers curled over the edge of the crib and her whipered "Hi" to wake me, everything fell into place like snow on fir branches.

I quietly snuck Nella out to keep her from waking everyone else up, but she spotted the baby stroller next to the tree, and Sister could not be contained.

So we went and woke up the entire house so we could get on with it.

Surveying proof of reindeer

Sister was more interested in helping Austyn with his stocking than digging through her own

Santa brought her "real pretend" glasses.

Austyn wanted a unicycle, a decision that pretty much made my Christmas. After almost putting a hole in our drywall, he moved his practice from the hallway to the driveway. It's a work in progress, but once he has it down I'm sure he'll be picking up chicks with it. Well, not literally--only one seat.

Our childhood Chrismases were highlighted by the string tradition--following a string that trailed throughout the house, in and out of bedrooms, up and down staircases until it ended at "the big gift"--the most memorable being Buffy, our childhood Cocker Spaniel. This year's string led to a seat for two because our seat for one was causing too many sister arguments.

And I always love the way those little gifts become favorites. Like the big girl journal with a feather pen and a real lock. She opened to the first page, prepared her pen to write and asked, "Mom, how do you spell 'NO. This is Lainey's Lock Book.'?"

My heart is happy. The most important priorites in our life have bubbled to the surface the past few days and are holding steady with no competing interruptions.

More candles, I know.

Annual Christmas swim tonight

I could go on, but I have an entire week of reflection coming. I do a whole lot of "where have we been, where are we going?" this time of year, and I am loving the sentiments that follow.

But tonight, it's still Christmas. Light a candle...or a pretend campfire. It ain't over yet.

Merry, merry.

Merry Christmas Eve!

2011-12-24T10:43:00.000-08:00

Last night, Nella's midnight cries interrupted a dream where it was snowing. I don't know where I was, but I do remember, about five seconds before the dream broke, I was taking my mittens off so I could use my phone to take a picture of evergreen branches, frosted in crystalized snow.

Yesterday, I cried twice from missing my family. Once didn't count though because Sinead O'Connor was mid-chorus in Silent Night, and that song--well, all bets are off. I felt off yesterday. I blamed it on being tired, missing my family, realizing I didn't get to do so many of the things I swore I'd do this year--like slow down. Read Christmas books every night. Chill out. All this to say, December is such an immense crescendo of anticpation and I flip out a little at the peak.

But I'm regaining my footing--surveying the scene, and it's grand. Which is why I don't have a lot to say today. I'm caving--burrowing into my family, reflecting on this year, feeling grateful and content and excited.

Our last home-making attempts:

Thursday night, we gathered with friends to enjoy the talents of Mikey Wax, who finished off his home concert tours this year in our neighborhood clubhouse.

He is kind and warm and fit in just perfectly with our crazy bunch--not to mention he is so talented, and his smooth soulful tunes were the perfect accompaniment for a memorable night.

He begins a radio tour next year as well as continuing his house concert tour. Check him out!

Last night we continued our hot cocoa walk tradition, trailing our festive wagon through the darkness, knocking on doors, pouring drinks and delivering off-tune reditions of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas." It felt celebratory and bonding in an I-miss-my-family-but-I'm-glad-I-have-my-friends kind of way.

When it was all done, Nana Kate came home with us and the two of us settled into the couch. She admitted she cried because she missed her grandkids and I admitted I cried because I missed my family. Hello, Match Made in Heaven. We don't just love each other--we need each other.

So, here I am--Christmas Eve--surveying the scene. Feeling thankful. Excited for this next week. And ready to step away from this keyboard...family calls.

Friday Phone Dump:

Friday Phone Dump photos are taken on the Instagram iPhone app (free) and dropped into a 12x12 collage using a photo editing software (Photoshop Elements works). I am "etst" on Instagram if you want to follow the feed.

To all of you, Merry Christmas. Have a wonderful weekend with your families.

Our 2011 Christmas Card (I still have a stack on my counter to send out!)

front

inside

back

We've got work to do!

The Big F.A.Q.

2011-12-21T09:36:00.000-08:00

Q: How do you keep on top of your photos?

A: I take photos almost every day. Without even thinking about it, my routine is to download them at night and click through them to choose my favorites. I store them in folders by date and tag words like "South Beach weekend," "Lainey's birthday party," or "Mom's wedding." I have three external drives right now, and every 3-4 months, I go through folders and clean them up--delete the extras and leave only the best of the best. This is getting easier than it used to be. Three years ago, I could have had 25 shots of Lainey eating an ice cream cone--all of them similar--and I'd be paralyzed, feeling guilty to delete just one. After four years though, I know my kids and their childhood are more than well represented. Between the blog, Photobucket, the books I make for them each year, and my hard drives, I'm confident I won't lose sleep over deleting unused photos.

Q: How do you take your camera out?

A: If I don't want to lug my camera case, I will wrap my camera in a scarf and put it in my purse (I carry a larger purse in these instances, and sometimes I'll pull the diaper change mat from a diaper bag and line my purse with it). In these cases, I'll settle on bringing one lens--usually my 16-35 mm. Obviously, I take my camera to the beach as well. I always bring my camera case if we're going to the beach, and I'm careful to make sure my hands are clean and sand-free if I change lenses. I also use an air blower like this one to clean off the camera when we're home. I send my camera to Canon at least once a year for a "tune-up"--sensor and body cleaning.

As far as photography goes, I have some really cool new ways of sharing some photo-taking tips (always a work in progress) with you come January. I can't share yet, but I'm excited about a collaborative new project!

Q: How often does D.S. weigh on your mind?

A: We're almost two years in this. D.S. is part of who my child is. I think about my children all day long and consequently, Down syndrome is part of that. There are so many times when I look at Nella and just feel--I don't know, I can't explain it--calm...content...thankful. Her eyes? I'm crazy over them--so exotic, so beautiful.

We still talk about how this has changed our lives in so many good ways and how we will continue to grow and learn in years to come. So, to say we don't ever think about it isn't really true. We do, however, forget about the things we used to think about. The fears. The uncertainty. Or, rather, we've become accustomed to it. There will be tears. There will be days when I will say yes, this is hard. But so far, I've thought so many times--how could I have ever underestimated this love? I have two daughters. Unmeasurable joy times two. Period.

Q: Do you ever worry about Lainey feeling overshadowed by Nella's special needs?

A: I used to. It consumed me those first couple months. But I didn't give myself enough credit as a mom. I love my children equally. How silly of me to think I wouldn't be able to express that. The more I rely on my natural ability to love, nurture and mother the way I was born to do, the less I worry about things. I've realized I never miss a beat when either of my girls need more of me--I just know. And I react instinctively. I've never been more confident that my girls will both grow up knowing they are so special--each unique and talented in so many ways. The more I trust myself, the better I love.

Q: What kinds of therapy is Nella getting? Are you doing anything with her that you think contributes to how well she is doing?

A: Nella has O.T. (occupational therapy) and P.T. (physical therapy), each once a week, and an I.T.D.S. (Infant Toddler Development Specialist) comes to our house every two weeks and does play therapy, evaluations, etc. This is all provided by the state as part of a federally funded Early Intervention program. These programs are incredibly vital for children with special needs, and we need to continually advocate to see that they are appropriately funded and remain in place.

If there's any one thing we do with Nella that I feel directly affects her progress, I'm happy to share (I love the tips I've received from the D.S. community on resources they've found useful). While I believe the accepting environment we provide for Nella, where we expect so much of her and treat her equally, helps promote her milestones, I don't ever want to suggest that a child who isn't reaching the same milestones doesn't have parents who work with them. Regardless of special needs, children develop differently and at their own pace. In the meantime, we invest our time, love and praise into every one of our kids, celebrating their accomplishments, supporting their needs.

Q: It seems there are so many categories of moms these days, especially on blogs. What kind of mom do you consider yourself?

A: Just a mom. I don't want to sum up what kind of mom I am in one word because that's limiting. I don't like being put in a box and I'm way too impulsive to fit into just one category. I've written about this before, but I think sometimes we feel like we can't explore a new area if we don't completely fit in the box. Like "I'd really like to buy that vintage plate because I love it, but my house is too contemporary and I'm not really Vintage Girl." Who says you have to be just one thing? Buy the damn plate if you love it. Our society is fabulous at pigeon-holing people and identifying them into categories as if they have to abide by a certain set of rules--and judgement and assumption often follows. We've identified the urban mom, the hipster mom, the churchy mom, the homeschool mom, the wild mom, the funny mom, the divorced mom, the laid back mom as if once you have a label, that's all you can be. That's so constraining and yet, I admit, I fall victim to the labeling. Like I thought I couldn't make my own laundry soap because it meant I'd also have to drive a hybrid car. Holding a solid faith and dancing out with the girls don't have to be opposites. Having a home in a suburban neighborhood doesn't mean I can't funk it up with crafts and cherished kitsch. And writing about "the small things" certainly doesn't mean I don't pay attention to "the big things" in life too. I want to passionately explore a multitude of areas in life and, while some areas might bubble to the surface with noticeable expression, some simmer beautifully and quietly underneath--not to be forgotten. I'll dip my toes into different hobbies and ways of life if I feel drawn to them, and I won't let the box of "who I'm supposed to be" stop me for a hot second. And I learn--oh, do I learn from so many other kinds of moms who continually broaden the definition of motherhood with their insight and experience.

We're women. We are multi-faceted. We don't have to fit into a box. We follow our own rhythms and we celebrate our movements that may change over the course of aging, mothering, learning, exploring, loving.

I follow my instincts and listen to my heart. That's the kind of mother I am.

Q: Do you read the comments?

A: Yes. I really try and read all of them. You took the time to write it, I want to take the time to read it. Sometimes I go a couple days before I sit down and catch up, but you'd be surprised how many of you I know by name. I try to visit blogs and leave comments when I can although, obviously, my first priority is time with my family. If you ask a question in the comments, I will try and answer it in another comment in the same post.

Q: With a public blog, how do you deal with negative criticism?

A: I wish I could say I've always been one of those people who shrug off criticism and make no qualms about how people perceive them. I've always wanted to please people, and that comes with the realization that when I don't, it's disheartening. When this blog gained publicity, I soon discovered that it also opened the door to criticism and sometimes false assumptions about how we live our lives, raise our kids, deal with issues, what I write about, what I don't write about, etc. Here's the thing--everyone should go through negative criticism at some point in their life because it is so good for you. It never feels good at the moment, but the process is enlightening. You sharpen your beliefs, gain confidence and, over time, stand firmer and stronger.

No one is invincible--I do get my feelings hurt, and that icky, self-analyzing, defensive cave I've slipped into is just gross. But necessary. You grow. From blogging and putting myself out there, I believe even more Shakespeare's advice, "To thine own self be true." And you don't need a blog to discover that you cannot change yourself to please others nor can you be so arrogant to think that you're never wrong. But you can own what you say...and learn more every day from the experiences that help shape us--and that includes criticism.

Q: Where do you get your quilts?

A: My mama's always loved a good quilt, and I inherited her obsession once I had babies and fell into my style a little more. I like cozy. I like homey. And I love me some Ebay. I don't think I've paid more than $30 for any of our quilts. They were all found on Ebay--old, used, a bit tattered...but perfect. I search words like "vintage quilt," "vintage patchwork quilt," "granny square afghan," "homemade patchwork quilt" and about a hundred other combinations that have scored me some pretty cool finds.

Q: How did you and Brett meet?

A: This is definitely the most repeated question. I suppose my avoidance suggests some sort of scandalous story like we met in Las Vegas when I was a showgirl and he was a stage hand. Oh, but only if it were so storybook. Didn't happen that way, although he did propose to me at dinner while we watched the Bellagio fountains from the Eiffel Tower--the Vegas one--and I do have a nice showgirl high-kick when I'm reenacting Sally O'Malley, if I don't say so myself.

There is a story behind our meeting, and I did finally write it all down.

But it's in Bloom, and you'll have to wait until April 3 when the book comes out. There are a lot of issues in the book I specifically discuss that I don't talk about a lot on the blog--my past, faith, family, etc. On the blog, my intent is that these issues breathe through stories, photos and words in a read-between-the-lines kind of way and, occassionally, I will expound when I'm inspired to do so.

The book opened up the opportunity to explore a lot of untread territory though. Writing it was the most cathartic personal experience of my life--a ten month therapy session, of sorts. I am excited for next year and the release of a story that is so precious to me--one in which I hope you find shared sentiments, determination and celebration. As it gets closer, I will talk about it a bit more, but for now you can pre-order a copy of Bloom: Finding Beauty in the Unexpected by clicking any of the four distributer buttons on the right sidebar.

Finally, I promise...I don't do it all. No one does it all. There are never enough hours in the day to finish what I want to accomplish, and there are nights where I go to bed with the house in shambles and thinking to myself, I could have done better. I am forgiving. I am realistic. And I love the thrill of waking up the next day and deciding...what is it we want to do today? How are we going to make this day great? Happiness is a choice. Sometimes it isn't easy. There are moments it doesn't come naturally...but when you repeatedly practice finding the good, it has a way of finding you.

If I didn't answer your question, you might find it on this old F.A.Q. post or the F.A.Q. tab at the top of the blog or perhaps the Photography F.A.Q.

Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum

2011-12-19T17:09:00.000-08:00

So, let's see--it's T-minus-six-days, and if there was some sort of meter to measure my enthusiasm for it all right now, it would read something like: "blissfully hanging from chandelier, with Christmas martini."
Rimmed in crushed peppermint, of course. And I'm wearing cute Christmas shoes. And, for the hell of it, let's throw in the fact that this imaginary chandelier-hugging version of me is also singing "Have Yourself a Merry Christmas"--the swingy swanky version--and I sound just like Ella Fitzgerald.

But really, I'm sitting in the office, eating stir-fry from a paper plate and obsessively clicking between three Christmas Pandora stations because the Little Drummer Boy song keeps popping up, and I can't bear to hear "Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum" one more time. We get it. Your drum makes a noise.

*****

My girl had a recital this weekend. I stood back and beheld the wonder that the froggy-legged baby in the strawberry jammies who smells like cookies and purses her lips just like a baby bird--the one with a dusting of peach fuzz hair and deep blue eyes that, who knows, might change to a chocolate brown someday--well, she's big now. She's tall and confident and yet still a bit shy too.

She dances on stage while I huddle in a small sea of parents, snapping photos, smiling, wondering how in the world that little newborn transformed into this girl so quickly.

Eight little girls dressed in homemade fur muffs and snowball shoes, danced to "Baby', it's Cold Outside." And our cheeks ached from smiles of praise, adoration, contentment.

Our celebration had its encore at a greasy bar where we gathered with friends after the recital.

Post-recital drive--the sky was showing off.

Our waiter came over, handed us some menus and asked, "Can I start you guys with some drinks?" Swear to Kris Kringle, Nella flung her head around, smiled and enthusiastically shouted, "YEAH!"

Because Sister was thirsty.

*****

I'm feeling content this holiday, balancing the duties of right now with the anticipation of a bit later pretty comfortably. The house is in holiday shambles, but I look forward to cleaning it tomorrow and beginning to prepare for a special weekend.

Other than a small project I made Brett promise me he'll finish, we're done with crafting. My last project was an easy magnet board for Nella. I spray painted an old 16 x 20 frame and filled it with sheet metal (primed and painted). We'll hang it low in her room for play/learning.

Felt magnet letters, Etsy.

And now it's time to party. I'm stoked for some excitement later this week--a house holiday concert from Mikey Wax. Check him out. He's making quite a name for himself (toured with Howie Day, Landon Pigg...), and he's touring the country performing free house concerts. And now I'm realizing, we don't have a chandelier on which to hang from...bum.

*****

Lainey has proclaimed that these are her "reading glasses."

She's wearing Nella's shoes.

She shares with her sister, too.

Let's knock an F.A.Q. out while we're at it: Nella had a second opinion and two follow-up eye appts. since her infamous Professor glasses, and she doesn't need them anymore. I do miss them a bit.

*****

And finally, in an attempt to make purposeful efforts every day this week for really good (interpret as you may) leading up to Christmas, we began by letting our toes kiss the sand.

I wanted to take the girls sledding on the beach. It would have been perfect--pulling them in a sled right along the shore until the sun set. Try finding a place that sells sleds in Southwest Florida. We settled for sitting in the sand.

It was, likewise, lovely.

More good stuff planned for the rest of the week.

*****

Sponsor Katrina Roldan for Sticks and Stones is joining us this week, bringing the original alphabet photography of Sticks and Stones (recognized on Oprah and Rachel Ray)--which is personalized and handcrafted upon order (never mass produced!)

Use Coupon Code IBGIKL at checkout for 10% off your entire order, and if you buy one item, you get 50% off your second item.

*****

F.A.Q. post coming Wednesday.

My girls, the bed, the sheets, the holiday movie calls.

Santa, I Know Him.

2011-12-16T17:07:00.000-08:00

Things that make me happy, right here, right now:

Boot Keychain.

I'm not really the buy-the-LED-light-up-rose-at-the-gas-station-counter kind of girl. Or the paperback cookbooks/pencil toppers/slashed price CDs. But this boot? It was in a bowl with other little boots at a check-out today. And the lady said they were on clearance. I have a thing for miniatures. And boots. And things that make me think of Michigan in December. Dude, I had to have the boot. So I bought it and slipped it on our shared keychain. Two hours later, I ran out for an errand and noticed Brett removed the boot off the keys and left it in the center console. He has yet to realize I put it back on. I smell a Boot War. The boot stays. The End.

The Elf Went Home.

We're not making a big deal of it, but turns out...this isn't the year. The idea of an elf coming alive while she was sleeping was starting to freak her out, and we knew it. And I love that about parenting--the fact that loving your child comes with knowing your child. I know her, I sense her insecurities, I feel her heart beat in sync with mine. She kindly asked for Elfitty to go be with Santa and, um, let's see...how was it she put it? Oh yeah, "Stay forever." We smiled and hugged and said "of course." Maybe we'll try another year because, yes, it was fun. Until then, there are all sorts of hilarious elf texts and e-mails flying around our family.

Making Gifts.

A doll blanket to accompany one of Santa's gifts.

And a brilliant idea from my friend, Rebecca. We made several jars of homemade laundry detergent the other day--telling stories and entertaining kids while we grated fragrant soap bars and mixed powder.

We found a few recipes online and ended up blending some of them together--one cup of Borax, one cup of washing soda, two cups of grated bar soap (several sites suggest Fels-Naptha or Ivory, but we used a variety of homemade scented bar soaps from Whole Foods). And the best part? Lavender essential oil (I shook at least a good 20 drops per jar).

We blended it in a blender until it was a well-mixed powder. It smells amazing, you only need one tablespoon per wash, and it's very inexpensive to make.

I even tested it. Fresh, clean, stain-removed little baby clothes.

Yields 11-12 jars from one box of Borax, one box of washing soda and a little more than 12 bars of soap.

I never figured myself to be the make-your-own-laundry-soap kind of girl, but I'm two weeks shy of 33, and I'm realizing all sorts of things about myself in these beginning chapters to Thirties. I can make my own laundry soap. I like a nice boot on my keys.

Wheeeee.

That's what Nella says when she wants to swing. She points outdoors and says, "Wheeeee." Sister is communicating bananas lately, and we are eating it up. There is that moment when I figure out exactly what she means, and I'm beaming--shaking my head, smiling, responding with exuberant praise. "Yes! Yes! Nella! Good Girl!" We clap. We celebrate. More words. More knowing our child.

Imagination.

So she doesn't like little elves that walk around your house at night. No biggie. There's so much she does like. Friends, make believe, Daddy.

Santa.

I combed their hair extra smooth today, wound tight buns, found new hair ribbon, and slipped black patent leather shoes over tights. I usually hate malls, but today we walked into the side hallway and were welcomed by the last chorus of "Frosty, the Snowman." I smiled. It felt like Christmas--the contrasting monopolized one that, today, actually nicely "accessorized" the homey fireside one we love. I pushed the stroller while Brett held tightly to Lainey's hand, and we walked past the food court and into the tunnel of kiosks toward the castle of Santa's crew.
There was no line and, thankfully, this year's Santa had a real beard and was over 30. He was real, thank you very much. We sat Nella down first.

That went well.

Once her sister mirrored her on Santa's other leg, she was just fine. And I love that.

I couldn't stop smiling. And my big girl? The one who now suffers from Elfanoia actually relaxed her shoulders, snuggled into that furry coat, and made captivating conversation.

Sometimes I still have to tell myself I'm a mom. I have two little girls who sit on Santa's lap and, in a little over a week, I'm going to clutch my coffee cup and cry-smile while I wrap up the year feeling grateful in a moment of clarity--watching my family all huddled together.

That's all that really matters.

*****

Friday Photo Dump:

Friday Phone Dump photos are taken on the Instagram iPhone app (free) and dropped into a 12x12 collage using a photo editing software (Photoshop Elements works). I am "etst" on Instagram if you want to follow the feed.

*****

Last minute Gift Suggestions:

Stock up on Body Care Product Stocking Stuffers from Michelle Timmons Arbonne or surprise a mama you love with a subscription to Mamalode magazine (I'm writing a piece for their next issue and excited about a friend's article in the same issue.).

*****

Your F.A.Q. questions are great--will answer several next week.

And now...also loving...Vince Guiraldi, fireplace fires, colored lights, planning next week's holiday meals, knowing things will slow down come Monday, parties and ballet recital this weekend, wearing slippers, good neighbors, my little boot.

And memories of this day, last year.

It's mid-December, almost the end of the year...what are you loving right now?

The One where Christmas Magic goes Awry

2011-12-15T04:31:00.000-08:00

Brett's mom came over yesterday to hang out with the girls for a bit while I got some things done. Every year, she buys the girls a Christmas keepsake and writes on the bottom a little message with the year. Lainey's not really into collecting anything besides random junk she loses anyway (broken Happy Meal toys, loose playing cards, straws, caps to lotion bottles--you know, the usual), but these keepsake gifts? She knows where they are at all times. She shows them to her friends. She pushes the buttons that make them play "Away in a Manger" over and over...and over.

So yesterday, the girls and Grandma were enjoying their bonding time when I heard Lainey's blood-curdling scream, the kind that makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up and prompts an instinctive reaction of Bolt and Get to my Kid. I expected blood. "I thought a poisonous snake bit her," my mother-in-law admitted later. Lainey ran to me, tears streaming, gasping hysterically. I scanned for an open wound, kissed her forehead, felt her little stomach jerking against my chest.

"Grandma....Grandma....(gasp, gasp)," she couldn't finish.

"Grandma what? Grandma WHAT?" I insisted.

"Grandma touched the elf."

And this is the point I admit--having an elf might very well @*!# up your kid.

Meanwhile, Brett's poor mom was hovering in the background with that "what did I do?" look on her face, and I frantically planned the appropriate response while my still-gasping daughter buried her head into my shoulder and grieved the loss of her elf's magic--because that's what the book says happens if you touch your elf, and I never thought twice to make up our own rules.

I responded quickly and (ir)rationally. I held my girl on my hip, consoling her while I called the fake North Pole, talked to a fake Santa and followed his fake blow-by-blow instructions that may or may not have included chanting the magic words "Gingerbread, Gingerbread, Christmas Tree, Happy Santa" with our eyes closed and our heads turned away from Elfitty to restore his magic. And all the while, my mother-in-law watching and smiling--"you've got to be kidding me" clearly evident from her face.

"This is ridiculous," Brett mumbled and laughed. And I know he's right, but I wanted to save the magic. I mean, you should have seen her face with those donuts the other day. She smiles that crooked shy smile every morning when she finds him in a new spot, and there's something so beautiful about the power of imagination--the ability of a really good story to add wonder and magic and tradition to our Decembers. But I also don't want my kid to end up in Christmas therapy someday.

So we made new rules. The elf is our friend who, yes, can be found hiding in new spots every morning. But a book doesn't make the rules for our family, and the only thing that's lost its magic in our home is the overuse of a word like "magic." So there.

*****

Latte was gone for over a week, staying with Gary who finally went back to Michigan yesterday, and my girl was so happy to have her dog back last night.

*****

We made a quick mid-day trip to the beach yesterday to get a photo I needed for a project.

Ladies and Gentlemen, please steer your eyes from the upper left quandrant back to the subject in the middle. Thank you.

And that was nice of those girls to offer a view from behind as well.

Loving the excitement that is growing for my friend's baby--the little tag-a-long she wanted so badly.

On the way home, we found a unicorn--rather, a Christmas trolley sittin' by his lonesome in a parking lot. He was calling our name. He might as well have been wearing a sign: "Christmas cheer inside."

All aboard the Polar Express.

Her hair looks likes we're moving, but we weren't. We only tresspass abandoned trolleys, we don't steal them.

We finished off with a car wash before heading home.

Why, hello there cute red bug. Not ours. But how cool if it was.

*****

I have a love/hate relationship with this face. Hate to see her sad; love that that little lip hasn't lost its ability to curl up just like it did almost two years ago.

Cheer up, Charlie. Show me a smile.

And that's how Christmas magic is reinstated after a small elf disaster. The End.

*****

Dashing Bee, that fabulous little online consignment shop, is back to sponsor--perfect time to stretch your dollars and still score some sweet new duds, toys, etc. for your kids for Christmas.

There are lots of quality brand names to choose from and a great variety of unique styles. Boys, girls, clothes, shoes, toys, maternity, accessories--you'll find it all at Dashing Bee (or sign up to be a consigner and make some money!).

Use Code HAPPY5 for 5% off your order.

*****

And finally--a reader favorite, Darlybird, is back just in time for holiday shipping. Blending whimsical and vintage with chic and unique, Darlybird is stocked with an impressive selection of accerories for you and your kids as well as home goods, arts and crafts or that perfect party item that will have everybody talking (Bonjour, mon nom est nametags? Love).

Left: Oliver the Owl purse (the leather smells heavenly), Right: Key Lime Double-Strand Necklace

I love the way gifts look with Darlybird paper tape.

And this fanciful felt cottage purse (made from 100% wool by Fair Trade artists in Nepal) is so adorable, I can't decide if we'll use it for a tote or hang it somewhere in Lainey's rooms for decoration.

The best part? Darlybird gifts are so fairly priced and, as always, every item in the shop has a creative and thoughtful description, worth some clicking around some afternoon. Need a last minute gift for your mom, your daugter or your son's adorable wife? Try the Earring of the Month Club. Use Code FREESHIP30 for Free Shipping on orders over $30.

*****

We have some gift making to attend to today.

Quick Craftastic

2011-12-13T17:02:00.000-08:00

Stopping by.

It is worth mentioning that the photo on the left turned into the photo on the right in fifteen minutes.

This is because Brett called on his way home from Miami and said he'd be home soon. Never underestimate the magical powers of The Shakedown .

While I let my kitchen dishes rot today, we did other things. Crafty things. Christmas things.

20 minutes, a few pieces of 12 x 12 paper, a bottle of glue and some twine will give you paper lanterns.

Fold paper in half, cut slits on fold (but not all the way to the end).

Open paper.

Glue one edge along lengthwise slits.

Curl into circle and secure. Add some ric rac, ribbon, whatever (easier if you do this before gluing into a circle). Hang lanterns with twine. Proclaim festive love, sing a carol, light a candle, Amen.

Hallway decorations=Check.

The house has been properly Christmastized. Of this, I am sure.

Don't worry, the bathroom mirror did not go unnoticed.

From behind the house, fa la la la la.

There you be. Tuesday holiday lovin'.

*****

Heal My Sole Giveaway winner :

Comment #205, I Live for a Little While: I love that you dive right in and let your kids make messes (Nella and the puddles!). I need to do that more often. Hugs!

Congratulations, please send your contact info to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net with the subject HEAL MY SOLE GIVEAWAY.

*****

Two last things.

1.) I'm working on gathering some frequently asked questions for an F.A.Q. post next week. If you have a question, want to know more about something, whatever, throw it in a comment on this post, and I will do my best to collect and answer some of these. I'm working to connect more with readers, answer your questions and create more communication here, so this is a good place to start. Ask me anything (thank you, Amba!)

2.) Have a happy night.

Feeling It

2011-12-12T16:39:00.000-08:00

Well, hello there.

I started writing this post at 4:39 this afternoon with plans to furiously tap my keyboard, cut and paste some codes and hit publish by dinner. It's ~~9:30~~ ~~10:05~~ 11:50 now. Between then and now, I got distracted--folded laundry, made a quick dinner, took the girls for a night light walk and finally laid in bed sandwiched between two sweet bodies until their chests steadily raised and settled with the peaceful rhythm of deep sleep.

Really though, I went to write several times today but didn't feel it.

I like the way it feels to write when I'm inspired. I like to clean my house when I'm in the mood--savoring the way hot water suds when it hits lemon oil in a bucket or forcefully scrubbing mad circles on the bathroom tile because, at that moment, the world will not go on unless my knuckles are bleach-burned and that tile is spotless. I love to cook when my kitchen's clean, dinner music is streaming, my favorite apron is tied around my waist and I'm two wine sips away from calling all my friends and telling them how much I love them. I like to dance when the roof is on fire.

You can't always wait to feel it though--at least that's the antithesis that must be stated to add validity. There are things we have to robotically do whether we feel it or not. Pay bills, work, wake up with crying babies, pack diaper bags, put gas in the car.

But to feel it? To act on a flame that ignites and propels us to think, smile, move, dance, sing, love, write, run, breathe deeply--it's so different. A short burst of inspiration, feeling, passion--it can accomplish more than hours of robotic output. And when you feel it--deeply--the product is undoubtedly more glorious.

My sister and I talked a lot about feeling it this weekend. She called three times the past two days reporting her house was nearing disaster zone but claimed she didn't feel it yet--the burning urge to clean. And I get it. We laughed, justifying our similar behaviors with the fact that we'd come around and when we did, it would be good. And then we went on--as we always do--analyzing our tendencies, backing up into childhood and what makes us tick. Which is about the point Brett interjects, "Oh God, sister therapy" before he walks away, laughing.

We arrive at the conclusion (justification) that being motivated by feeling it is powerful. It comes with its drawbacks (Sorry Boss, I know that report was due last Tuesday, but I'm not really feeling it yet), but the rewards are mighty.

I find myself feeling that Come Alive-ness more often now. I don't know if it's age or experience or perhaps conditioning--seeking out a hit of inspiration wherever and whenever I can find it because I know what it feels like to have it...and I want more of it. It's why I take walks at night with the girls, throw things in the car for a last-minute sunset, blister myself on a hot glue gun to create something special, wear red lipstick, hang half a million twinkly lights for my girl's magical night, or close my eyes and almost cry when the first ballerina hits the stage for the Overture on a Nutcracker date with my daughter. I feel inspired.

It was special and we treated it as such. Fancy clothes, a high bun with ribbon, a spritz of shimmer perfume, and a purse to carry her chapstick, a plastic dalmation, two nickels and a penny.

We chose a community production this year, performed at Big Arts, a small theater full of character and nestled between City Hall and the Historical Museum on Sanibel Island, an hour north of us. It was cozy and authentic and perfect for a little girl's first trip to the ballet.

For all the times I've seen the Nutcracker, none was as lovely as this--because I have her now. And another her at home who will someday be big enough to come along.

And if listening to Tchaikovsky and watching lithe ballerinas glide around a Christmas tree doesn't ignite the Christmas pilot light (ahem--flaming torch), then I don't know what will.

Maybe sparkly little angel girls holding candles. Be still my Christmas heart.

There. And the rest of the weekend...

A Florida Santa:

A Sunday waffle breakfast:

A short rain that created enticing puddles:

Cookie Stealer:

She loves to use her Sweet Seat as a chair...perfect height to prompt walking. Order by Wed for Christmas delivery.

Night Light Walks:

Big Smiles:

Doesn't she look like Mama here?

The following call to my sister last night:

Me: "I've made too many decisions today. Tell me, please, what do I want to do? Climb in bed and call it a night, or make peanut butter cookies? Seriously, you have to decide for me."

Sister: "Make the cookies."

Me: "Good. Thank you."

And that, my friends, is feeling it.

*****

Introducing my new accessory love, One Delightful Button, who joins in sponsorship this month.

One click into this shop and you will be delighted with their selection of pretty and colorful accessories.

From vintage-inspired to clean and simple, One Delightful Button offers eye-catching earrings, cufflinks, bobby pins and more, all at a price you can afford.

My favorites: Marigold Earrings, Houndstooth Earrings, and the Scrabble Cufflink. All make great stocking stuffers!

Use Code "kelle" for 10% off your order.

*****

And returning sponsor, Heal my Sole, is back with some great new products and some old favorites. Heal my Sole began with an idea to create an all natural foot scrub that worked. It succeeded and grew into a natural product business that now offers a large range of homemade body products including lotions, scrubs, lip balms (coconut lemongrass, my favorite!), and now personalized soy candles. All candles are hand-poured, richly scented and made with the highest quality natural soy wax.

Our apple clover candle smells divine

I am missing a Michigan December a little less with our new woodland retreat fragrance spray--all natural and very fairly priced.

One comment will be randomly selected to win a free candle and $20 gift credit, courtesy of Heal my Sole.

*****

Happy, happy week to you all. Popping in tomorrow for some more holiday lovin'.

Enjoying the Small Things

2011-12-09T18:21:00.001-08:00

Enjoying...

*Last night's Christmas card ceremony tradition. Hot cocoa, a crackling fire, The Family Stone, my best friend, and a slew of envelopes and stamps and holiday fabulosity.

*****

*Elfitty's donuts. (my sister found on Pinterest and convinced me to make)

Lainey done lost her mind this morning when she saw he ate all but two and left some crumbs.

*****

*The following conversation:
Lainey: "Wear your Christmas shoes today, Mama."
Me: "What are my Christmas shoes?
Lainey: (running to my closet and returning with my moccasins): "These ones. Because they're gingerbread shoes."

I so get it.

*****

*Pruned baby toes. I want to eat them.

*****

*Yesterday's art/imagination class. This is such a happy hour for us.

*****

*Receiving our package of ornaments today--my mom sends them every year. Loving this doll's four-strand pony tails, her felt pants, those killer wood shoes, and the name tatt on her face. And I love my mom. Very much.

*****

*Chocolate cake mid day. Enough said.

*****

*Nella's suck-it-down straw face. And the "did-you-see-that?" smile that follows.

*****

*Outside Therapy Session and forgetting it's really P.T.

*****

*Tonight's delicious moon on our light walk.

*****

*Scoring this badass vintage blouse at Goodwill this week...and rediscovering my appreciation for the big GW, despite the fact it's 98% ugly/2% fantastic finds. If that ratio were any better, the thrill of "the find" might not be so great.

*****

Friday Photo Dump:

Friday Phone Dump photos are taken on the Instagram iPhone app (free) and dropped into a 12x12 collage using a photo editing software (Photoshop Elements works). I am "etst" on Instagram if you want to follow the feed.

*****

Okllo Gift Certificate winner:
Comment #207, Audrey: Sounds like a delightfully fun day out picking fruit. Merry Christmas!

Congratulations, Audrey! Please e-mail your contact info with the subject line OKLLO GIVEAWAY WINNER to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net, and you will receive your gift certificate code soon. Thanks!

*****

So, every corner of our house is now twinkle holiday fabulous, thanks to returning sponsor, Bubblewish.

My girls have Bubblewish felt lights in their rooms, and now our room joins the club with the most perfect Christmas twinkle lights that make a scene right from 'Twas the Night Before Christmas.

And I am so loving the new gingerbread light garland, right at our entrance. It says, "Hello, we like Christmas. Come and have a cup of cheer."

If you want a simple garland, sans lights, to liven up a room, check out the new felt star garland. My favorite part, as always, is the little handwritten "wish" attached to every garland sold.

Use Code KELLE20 for a 20% off discount from the Bubblewish store.

*****

And the ever delighful Tea Collection is returning in sponsorship this month. It is so easy to sing their praises--I am continually digging in laundry baskets and drawers for my very favorite items for the girls--Nella's soft yellow leggings (on sale!), Lainey's Puebla jacket (also on sale!), the Chile stripe dress that feels like pajamas. And my very favorite tennies we've ever owned, our go-to play shoes, day shoes, wear with anything shoes.

Check them out!

*****

Taking the big girl tomorrow for a date--The Nutcracker. I cannot wait.
Have a fantastic weekend! Any hot plans? (p.s. loved all the comments about the "elves" at your homes!)

Christmas Tang.

2011-12-07T19:18:00.000-08:00

Beware of the Christmas unicorns. They're flying all over this post, and you're going to have to bat them off with a big stick.

So get a bat; prepare to swing.

Evidence A:

Christmas in the Park, Bonita Springs, Tuesday night

B:

Snow! Snow! Even if it's mechanically shot out of a street light blower.

And C:

Gary found the Naples version of Christmas Light Holy Grail

I can sniff a Christmas unicorn from, like, miles away. And I feel it is my duty to share.

*****

We snuck out of the house in our pajamas the other night to go searching for Christmas lights. Gary found the muthaload at Flesher Farms, not too far away from our house. It's so grand, they have a parking assistant flagging people in. And then you get out of your car and tour the property.

Nice, eh?

And they have reindeer disguised as horses.

I think this is Vixen, evident from the strong snout and chiseled jawline. His alias is Skip.

You like Christmas?

How 'bout them Christmas apples?

Upon being smitten with Christmas wonder in the form of piped-in country Christmas tunes and a garage transformed into the biggest Christmas village ever (and watching my girls' eyes get all twinkly), I did what any good friend would do--I called Heidi and told her to throw her kids in the car, STAT, and meet us. She was on the way home from a Christmas preschool program and her responsible husband insisted they needed to go home; school night, and they had homework. So she put me on the phone with him and made me convince him (I'm good at this). I was this close to breaking into a warbly, theatrical performance of "Fahoo For-aze, Dahoo Dor-aze," but turns out I didn't have to. Ten minutes later, they showed up.

I'm beatin' a dead unicorn here, but holiday memories rock. Cross stitch it on a pillow and never forget it.

*****

Christmas Unicorn, take two.

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em. I cracked because everyone was doing it, and they're saying the kids are loving it...

Meet Elf on the Shelf who made his debut, swingin' in on a candle this morning.

You're supposed to name him first. I wanted a cool name--like Frank. Or Winston. Or Cornelius the Third. This elf's going to be with us for years, and his name goes down in family history. But as I was reading the book last night, Lainey smiles and blurts out that she wants his name to be Elfitty. "Elfitty?" I smiled, validated her suggestion and began to cleverly steer her toward more names--other names. Brett was secretly listening though and he interjected from the kitchen, "Kelle, don't you dare!" I knew he was right. I knew he was right. Let go of the reins--it's her creative, not mine.

"Elfitty. That's beautiful. Perfect."
So his name is Elfitty. Alright, I confess, it was really Elfitty Happy Santa, but I cut the "happy Santa" and she hasn't noticed.

Fahoo For-aze, Baby.

*****

I catch moments like these and, literally, I get a rush.

They make each other laugh in the wagon. Lainey squeezes Nella's cheeks to make them into a funny face, and they both start cracking up. I freaking love it.

*****
We've been making plans to return to Bob & Judy's U-Pick Citrus, and they kept falling through. So, it was come hell or high water today, and the weather happened to lay out the red carpet.

My friend Rebecca and I drove a little ways on I-75, then a lotta ways on a long country road, then a little more ways through a tangled grid of dirt roads until we landed in God's country. Horses, goats, cows--and Bob and Judy who open up their citrus haven home for public picking.

It was all kinds of lovely.

The orange "inhale."

We ate snacks under the shade of an orange tree, lured the resident cat into our laps (didn't take much work), participated in grove races, and stopped to eat our oranges right then, right there because that's when they taste the best.

Lainey and Beckham loved the game of pull, snap and fall.

And Nella was happy to be in the middle of it.

This is Florida, at its best--sun spilling starbursts through pockets of leaves and oranges and branches, the air thick with the ripe scent of tangy citrus, blue skies and the December crispness--not too hot, not too humid. And friends and cats and Bob and Judy's charming grove.

Toto, we're not in Naples anymore.

On the way home, we found an off-the-beaten-path country store. And, by country, I mean Country. We bought water and lollipops and stayed for an hour. Country store happens to come with a little bonus--an open field, a friendly tree, a tire swing and a homemade wooden amphitheater where the kids performed and danced for an audience of two.

At the end of the day, we were happy. I thought a lot about homeschooling today--how much we learned, what we experienced, how good it felt to be out, doing, seeing, learning and how good it felt to be with her while it happened. There are days I think it might not work out and days like today when I think...it could happen. There are pros, there are cons, there is a bit of time before we need to decide.

Until then, there are adventures. And a frickin' elf named Elfitty Happy Santa who needs to find a hiding spot.

*****

Congratulations to the I Dream of Toffee $30 gift certificate:
Comment #175, Baby by the Sea: I love the look of lights on a palm tree. As usual, quite a pleasure reading your post...

Baby by the Sea, please send your contact info to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net with the subject TOFFEE GIVEAWAY WINNER, and you'll soon be richer in the delicious caramel corn department.

*****

Ya'll (I had a country day, I'm in the mood) remember that awesome t-shirt company, Okllo, that offered those great historic American tees? There is so much I love about these shirts--their message, their quality (nice thick cotton), the colored sleeves and collar. They're back this month in sponsorship with those same great shirts and some new art products for kids.

The Abe shirt--seriously. I love his face all front and center. And give it up for Mama with his quote: "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother." Lainey's sweet purple-sleeved shirt: Sakakawea tee

And their art supplies? I have a new crayon obsession, and I know a good crayon when I see it (I'm usually still coloring long after Lainey's left her coloring book).

Hello Stocking Stuffer, Stockmar Beeswax Crayons (available in blocks--great for O.T. beginners--and regular sticks).

Okllo has an additional selection of quality art supplies for kids (we love our new kid scissors!) as well as their one-of-a-kind Great American tees, and they are currently offering FREE SHIPPING! Plus, get an additional 10% off using code ENJOY10. One lucky commenter on this post will be randomly selected to win a $35 gift certificate, courtesy of Okllo. Happy Shopping!

*****

Oh, it is late. Happy Dreams!

Yeah, No.

2011-12-05T19:27:00.000-08:00

FYI, we left the North Pole signs up. And the twinkly lights. And maybe I've been wearing my HoHo jammies more often than not. Which leads to funny HoHo comments from the three boys in this house.

Speaking of turning something completely sweet and innocent into something completely inappropriate, there's the whole "Yeah, No" bit Nella does now. Leave it to Christmas to deliver the heart-warming gift of speech to our girl--little brain synapses just firing, firing, firing every day. She knows words, she wants to use them, she wants to know more words. No matter how much we go about this with the whole "we treat her just like we treat our other kids," there is the subconscious awareness--the "don't get your hopes up" part I don't even realize exists until she soars so noticeably, so victoriously that it all unleashes--gratitude and the glorious celebration of milestones. I've told myself that she IS going to speak well but if she doesn't, we'll communicate with the more powerful language of eyes and heart and soul because a mama's love is fierce and, dammit, I'll talk to my daughter telepathically if I have to. But turns out, Sister's gonna be a mad talker.

She detects the slightest voice inflection that suggests a question. And she answers "yeah" or "no" to everyone, even if they aren't talking to her. I yelled to Brett from the kitchen the other day, "Should I make a salad?" And she turned her head and snapped, "Yeah." It's funny--even funnier when we ask her questions like, "Hey Nella, want a beer?"
Yeah.

Thankfully, she has the important things figured out. Like liking Christmas and not wanting to go to bed. The proof lies HERE.

*****

We applauded other milestones this weekend as well, joining members of our village to celebrate more life--little life.

The first year of sweet Kinsley who Lainey has adopted as her second little sister.

And precious Baby Kade's baptism on the beach Saturday morning.

I love raising kids with mamas I love--all doing it together, weaving stories we will tell thirty years from now when our babies who are pals are grown-up, sprinkled around the country, making their very big mark on the world.

I'm so glad they're still little now.

*****

I am loving watching my girls play together. Like really play--passing crayons back and forth, taking turns, big sister hands assisting little sister hands with dressing a doll or coloring a page. And their spats? It thrills me. They both have vibrant spirits, manifested not only in sweet, gentle gestures but sometimes in colorful outbursts. I am constantly reminded...they are different; they are the same. Just like the rest of us.

Those shirts? What does it mean? Why, I thought you'd never ask. Rhyme and Reason has created a 3:21 collection of men's, women's and kids' t-shirts. Three copies of that magical 21st chromosome, cleverly displayed in a subtle yet powerful message. Five dollars from every shirt sold will benefit the NDSS. And, from now until the end of the year, use code NDSS25, and you'll get 25% off your order, free shipping and 10% will be donated to the NDSS--applies to any item other than NDSS signature t-shirts.

There's a lot of love in that little logo.

Brett's shirt, My shirt, Girls' Shirts

Share the love, share the message.

*****

The rest of this weekend went something like...

We graduated to a big girl carseat.

We practiced our Superman swing.

We turned the dial up on Christmas and nearly blew the speakers.

Why yes, those are elf slippers.

My friend Wylie told me she read that studies show the more gawdy the Christmas decorations on the outside of a house, the more problems that dwell on the inside. So I'm all "Dude, tone it down" this weekend as Brett rigged a rainbow display on yet another tree, because our house right now is one inflated Baby Jesus away from a hot mess of problems.

Perhaps Bonnie Raitt said it best though: let's give 'em something to talk about.

*****

Brett took these as we were running out the door to a birthday party. My chickies.

I paid him back--tit for tat.

*****

Every Scrap Countz owl hat giveaway winner:

Comment #372, Hidalina: One of my favorite post Kelle.....Not only you made those little girls a night to always remember and talk about for life...you also made my day...i felt part of the party the cool thing I was in my jammy when I read and was drinking coffee too!!!! Definitely a white xmas Florida style!

Congratulations, Hidalina! Please send your contact info with the subject OWL HAT WINNER to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net.

*****

I'm so happy to have Jessica Clough, Independent Scentsy Consultant, back again as a sponsor this month. This is Jessica's six month sponsoring, and I'm so proud of how her business has grown. If you've ordered Scentsy products from her, you know her follow through is incredible and her communication with customers re: new products and specials is impressive. I've turned several friends on to Scentsy now, and they too love the selection of warmers and scents (currently burning Whiteout and Cozy Fireside and moving on to Festival of Trees).

I also have to thank Jessica and the readers who purchased products through her last month. Jessica donated all of her own profits from that basket party last month to the NDSS--a whopping $1100! Thank you Jessica, and welcome back!

Make your home smell good too!

*****

If the holidays aren't about smells, then they're about gettin' your eatin' on. I received a box from new sponsor I Dream of Toffee last week and, within two days, my generous selection of homemade carmel corns and toffee was almost gone. If you're headed to a holiday party or need a gift for a teacher, friend, boss, etc. I Dream of Toffee is a great gift with a homemade touch. A small family company, I Dream of Toffee offers popcorn, brittles, toffee and several gift packages such as their gourmet popcorn sampler.

My favorite was the Sweet & Spicy Corn--an interesting combination of buttery and sweet with almonds and a nice hot kick to it.

Support a great small business and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time. One commenter will be randomly selected from this post to win a $30 gift certificate, courtesy of I Dream of Toffee.

*****

Am I tired? Yeah.
Of twinkly, holiday-inspired things? No. Never.
We just spent our evening trudging through a Christmas farm--in our pajamas. There were about a hundred billion lights. Inflatable penguins, tractor-driving Santas, singing angels and musical reindeer. Talk about problems.

The joy continues.

I spy with my little eye, a shiny hidden moon.

Party at the North Pole

2011-12-03T13:38:00.000-08:00

It was magical. More than I ever could have imagined. I cried last night watching all these wide-eyed little girls take it all in, and then I cried all over again this morning looking back at it all. Because I'm kind of a crier...and I'm okay with it.

It really felt like the North Pole.

I took a few pictures during the day before the girls got there...

...but the magic unfolded about a billion fold once the stars came out.

And then little girls, dressed in their jammies, began to arrive and the rest was history.
It all started with the Reindeer Food Bar--a buffet of reindeer treats for the girls to choose from to make their own special blends for Christmas Eve (a tradition--you sprinkle it in your driveway Christmas Eve to lure the reindeer, and then they have something to munch on while Santa's in your house). Oats and raisins, bread crumbs and cocoa...and special ingredients like glitter and flying powder.

And then a letter from Santa. He told the girls he had lost some things in our neighborhood and needed some help finding them.

The girls were happy to help, eagerly assembling into a long train. They set out with flashlights, scouring trees and lawns and sidewalks for Santa's cocoa mug, his pocketwatch, Rudolf's collar, Mrs. Clause's cookie sprinkles and a long list of other lost goods. Santa's so irresponsible.

Found his cocoa mug!

And that pocketwatch.

Somewhere between the end of our driveway and the first lost treasure, the crowd errupted into excited squeals. They spotted an elf, running fast across the street, diving into bushes with a jingle. My cheeks were aching--I laughed, I cried, I couldn't stand it. I wasn't sure how the elf would go over--there was the small chance of the Traumatic Christmas Party Bust of 2012 that sent kids screaming and crying back home--but I couldn't have asked for a better response. They went bananas--the lose-your-breath kind. They smiled, they pointed, they excitedly screamed. I teared up when I saw one of the girls run, beaming, to her mom. "I saw him! I saw him! I saw a real elf! I really did." I knew they'd probably never forget that moment. We never saw that elf's face, but he was with us, zig-zagging quickly a couple driveways ahead and suddenly disappearing.

We returned home for milk & cookies.

There was music playing, mamas smiling, little girls trading cookies, and the entire time, I kept thinking...today is absolutely my favorite day.

It's not a Christmas party until someone reads "'Twas the Night Before Christmas..." (thank you, Dad, for adding so much magic to our party).

And the girls each brought a gift to exchange.

Party favors: Homemade Pillow Spray. I found several recipes online and ended up using water, 12-15 drops each of Spearmint (I liked it better than the peppermint) and Eucalyptus essential oils and a tiny bit of alcohol (vodka works) to keep the water and oil from separating. I found the spritzer bottles in the travel sized toiletries at Walmart.

We finished the night shimmying and shakin' our groove thang to Christmas carols in the driveway. Past our bedtime, just the way it's supposed to go.

I've been smiling ever since.

"He who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe is as good as dead; his eyes are closed." ~Albert Einstein

Friday Photo Dump:

Chris Schuette CD winners:

#33, Alisha: Oh man, those kissy sisters are too cute! What gorgeous little ladies. I love love love the photos.

#221, Melissa: Never, ever, ever enough kisses in a home. Way to go Hamptons...kiss away, kiss away, kiss away all!

#4, Courtney: Aw, I love that you commented about loving that picture so much your heart hurts. I tell my lidos tht as I'm rocking them to bed some nights . . .'i love you all the way to the moon and back 600 million times, I love you do much my heart hurts so good with love'.

#181, Meredith: Love the bit about the eggs and red glitter...so my world right now!!

#71, Jen: Maybe I'm immature, but your comment when Nella was showing Laynie her food made me laugh out loud. They are SO cute

#267, Sara: Love your blog; have been distracted with life and haven't read in a while! So refreshing to be back! Love the "sea food" pic :)

#153, Kathleen: Reading your blog makes me want to live in Florida. Thanks for sharing.

#11, Katy: This post made me laugh. Thank you it was very much needed today. Love the pictures. :)

#241, Susan: What a special treat to be able to savor those moments with your girls! I also love to find new musicians. Thanks!

#43, Michelle: How cute! I love Florida in winter for the simple fact that days like that can still happen. Nothing beats a cold beach day playing in the sand. And the kissing pictures are the cutest!!

Congratulations, Winners. Please e-mail your contact info with subject CD GIVEAWAY WINNER to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net.

Returning sponsor, Every Scrap Countz (maker of those adorable crocheted headbands) has something new in her shop, and we are loving it, especially since it comes at an appropriate time when our temperatures are finally dropping enough to allow cute head wear.

Enter the owl hat.

Lord have mercy, I love my girls in hats, and this one is especially lovely with its colors, its braided ties and those cute pointy ears.

Use Code KELLE for 15% off, and one comment will be randomly selected from this post to win a free owl hat, courtesy of Every Scrap Countz.

Have a great rest of the weekend.

ADDENDUM: Party Details if you'd like to recreate some magic.

Invite--I designed it and had it printed at WHCC. Girls were asked to bring a flashlight and a $10 gift to exchange.

Milk Bottles--Starbucks Bottled Coffee drinks like this one. Available at grocery stores. I just saved the bottles, removed labels (use a little Goof Off), and washed.

Retro Straws--my favorite Etsy party novelty shop, Hey Yo Yo. I order stuff from them for all my parties. Their shop is loaded with inexpensive adorable retro treats.

Christmas Baker's Twine--It's actually fine yarn. You can get a huge skein at Joanns that will last for 10 years.

Red labels on Milk Bottles and Reindeer Food Jars: THESE ONES from Martha Stewart Crafts (available at Michaels and Joanns).

Invite, Signs and Food Tags--I designed and printed myself. If anyone can tell me how to share printables and where to put them, I'd be happy to share.

Party Favors--Pillow Mist made with travel size mister bottles I bought at Walmart (in trial sized toiletry section). I mixed water with 10 drops each of spearmint and eucalyptus essential oils, plus about a teaspoon of vodka (to keep the water and oil from separating). I also found peppermint lipgloss in Target dollar section.

Peppermint "Red Carpet" leading into house--one roll of Christmas wrapping paper, secured to cement with duct tape

Christmas decor--Small Christmas village trees (I got mine for 79 cents a piece at Walmart), tealights, wood slabs (Brett cut from a fallen branch), a bag of fake snow, leftover white "fur" fabric from Lainey's ballet recital costume, paper snowflakes we cut out ourselves (free!). The rest was pulled from Christmas decorations in our attic.

Santa Hats--Oriental Trading.

Reindeer Food--We used disposable bread tins, measuring cups and the following choices: oats, raisins, bread crumbs, crushed potato chips, cocoa, flying powder (flour), red and silver glitter. The girls created their concoctions in Ball jam jars.

Scavenger Hunt--Santa left the following things along a path in our neighborhood: his sleigh key, a cocoa cup, Rudolf's collar, Mrs. Clause's cookie sprinkles, a large candy cane, his white glove, his hat, special greens the reindeer eat (a bunch of parsley), an ornament, his driver's license, his pocket watch

Food: Snickerdoodles, sugar cookies and my favorite candy cane cookies. And milk. Easy and inexpensive.

Elf: Talk to Santa. He controls them, and I have nothing to do with it.

The rest of it? When in doubt, hang more white lights. And then more. And then one more strand.
The key to the ambience at any party lies in a simple recipe: low lighting, candles and music. Crank up those Christmas carols, Baby.

Christmas Past, Christmas Present, Christmas Future

2011-12-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

This post is another Hallmark sponsored post. I am being paid by Hallmark to write it, but all writing, ideas and opinions are mine. Thankfully, Hallmark and I share the same idea--that little moments are to be celebrated and that good people, good efforts and good intentions deserve a spotlight. See Hallmark Life is a Special Occasion for more details, like them on Facebook, and/or sign up for their e-mail messages HERE.

Call me crazy, but I swear I remember my nursery from when I was a baby. It was yellow--or so I've been told. On the wall across from the crib, there was a framed picture of a Precious Moments character who was looking up at a hill with three crosses. Or maybe I made that up. Somehow though, whether created from stories and pictures passed down or drawn from near dormant infant subconsciousness, I've built up this memory of standing in my crib and scanning that sunny little nursery with the Precious Moments frame.

The older I get, the more faded my past grows--the depth of time between now and then slowly dissolving details that were once clear. Like classmates' names, birthday parties, a vivid layout of our tri-level home on Horseshoe Drive.

But there are some memories that stand solid--so precious, they have withstood the test of time, seared with the same magic and awe that accompanied them many years ago.

I remember every Christmas.

I'm so glad I remember Christmas. And knowing just how much work my mom and dad put into those memories, I bet they're glad I remember Christmas too.

Christmas circa 1984. Dude, my mom and dad were stylin'. I want my dad's sweater...and my mom's shoes.

I laugh about flying my holiday freak flag and yes, I enjoy every flap and furl of its flamboyant presence, but there's a reason for all of this, you know.

I am writing their books. And while they might not remember the pink walls of their nursery or the framed art that hangs across from the crib, I will make sure they'll remember the magic and wonder of traditions that draw us closer--a time of year that finishes the common stitches of our everyday memories with fine handiwork and colorful thread that won't be forgotten.

Christmas, 2010

What do I remember about my Christmas past? Well if ordinary memories hold the real past of my childhood, then December opened the wardrobe door to a magical other world. The very essence of childhood--a sense of wonder, imagination, the innocent belief in possibility, creativity--so many of the things that gradually wane with age--it was at its peak this time of year.

I realize now how little money we had--a pastor's salary plus some piano lesson income--but my childhood mind says we were rich. At Christmas, there were lights, candles, twinkly things, sparkly things, magical things, music--always music. There was a purpose for everything--the extra effort to add cherry poinsettia leaves to cinnamon rolls, the last-minute plans to call kids to the car to go survey light displays, the new pajamas, the gifts my mom stayed up many a nights to sew, craft, create.

Christmas, 2009

Having kids now, I realize just how much work it must have been. Hauling gifts and kids to the car, driving through blizzards to meet up with family, making gifts, hiding gifts, and the deliberate effort of creating what they wanted us to feel--that it was special. That our little minds and memories were worth the work.

Christmas, 2009

Christmas, 2010

We started a new tradition this week--late night wagon walks before bed, through the neighborhood to see the lights. I tucked a blanket around Lainey last night, cleaned up one spilled mug of cocoa and poured another, turned up the volume on my phone as loud as it would go so the Carpenters could come with us, and we walked through the darkness, searching for a good glowing display.

It was special--not just for her, but for me. It's ink on the pages of her book, and I felt satisfied--a bit like after I write something I feel is good and meaningful.

There's a reason I remember childhood Christmases so vividly and a value to them as well. Not only do those storybook memories hold the broken ones together--like the year my parents separated or the times things didn't make so much sense--but they carved deep grooves in my character. They etched the great worth of tradition, imagination and the wonder of childhood.

Christmas, 2010

I have big shoes to fill; my parents set the bar high. But Sister loves a challenge.

Tonight, a new annual tradition begins. A few of Lainey's friends will be arriving in their pajamas for a night at the North Pole.

Last night, past midnight, as I craned my neck on an eight-foot ladder to staple another strand of lights to the ceiling, I ignored my exhaustion and focused on the prize--my girl's happiness and her sweet memories in years to come.

You are the author of their storybook, writing memories and elements of their character every day. Make it meaningful. Give them wonder.

What is your most magical, meaningful childhood holiday memory? Hallmark and I would love to know. Please share!

*Friday photo dump coming later this weekend.

This is the last Hallmark sponsored Life is an Occasion post. I have so enjoyed this opportunity and partnering with Hallmark for such an important cause--embracing every opportunity to make life grand. Read all ten Hallmark posts here.

A Florida Winter's Night

2011-11-30T18:56:00.000-08:00

I just walked Nella to sleep under a cloudless starry sky. I wore a sweater, socks and warm closed-toe shoes. She was hugged by fleece pajamas and our favorite quilt, its tattered corner pulled around her head like a hood.

"Cover her ears or get a hat," Brett advised before I slipped out the door. He likes to advise--it's what he does, and tonight I smiled. It's not often we get to do that--talk about bundling babies or covering little heads.

She fell asleep fast, what with the fact that I gripped her tightly, wrapped her securely--she didn't have a choice. But it was lovely nevertheless. Cold air and the thick crescent moon glowing, like an open smile. As her weight fell a little heavier, I slowed my pace and absorbed the moment. A cold Florida night, a crisp clear sky, the distant blinking lights of a plane, skipping across the stars of Orion's belt...and my girl. My girl, almost two, her innocence and perfection and independence and neediness all in one, pressed against my middle where she grew not too long ago.

And now Pedro the Lion is singing about Peace on Earth and Good Will to Men, and I am a little bit in heaven even though I broke an entire carton of eggs (minus one) tonight and Nella dumped a bottle of red glitter onto my office rug.

The girls and I took a last-minute trip to the beach last night. I love a good Florida winter night beach trip.

The wind was wild, stirring up so much sea salt that we coughed and cleared our throats the entire stay. Our beaches are quiet when it's cold, calling only the bold, the truly dedicated sunset watchers. They know the secret--that the beach is more mysterious, more beautiful, more sacred when it's cold and vacant. We watched as a small mix of tourists and locals walked along the edge of the tide, huddled in sweatshirts, stopping for pictures right when the sun kissed the horizon. I wanted to walk far; Lainey wanted to sit and dig in the sand. So, sit and dig in the sand, we did.

And the sea turtle once again made her voyage to the sea. Because that's what sea turtles do.

The gulf was alive with waves bigger than I've seen in a long time. They crashed impressively, their pools gliding far up the beach where they washed away shells and footprints and teased my girls with their encore of white foam, like carwash soap.

'

I miss the snow. I miss mittens, the crunch of boots to packed powder, the way breath spins into white whispy clouds when it touches cold air. I miss electric blankets and the contrast of feet-in-warm-covers with feet-on-cold-floors. I miss that feeling in December when home is a haven, a safe and warm retreat from cold and dark and daunting.

There is an in-between though--the gray area of a little bit cold, a little bit warm, a little bit of a haven and yet a bit daunting at the same time. We find the in-between at the beach, on a Florida winter night.

My favorite face of hers, ever.

Kissing is so in right now at our house.

There's a whole lot of puckering going on. Mama likey.

'
This picture? Literally causes heart pain. Like it hurts a little bit.

Beach trips must be followed by beach store trips. You know, for sherbet push-ups and white cheddar popcorn.

Nella: Hey Lainey, you like sea food? Lainey: That's disgusting.

We left before the sun set which, yes, is like slipping out of a theater right before the sensational final act. But it was cold and we only have so many times we can use that excuse here. So we enjoy it while it lasts.

A very gifted sponsor joins us this month with his captivating musical talents. Chris Schuette of Indiebear Music composes music for film, commercials, websites and other applications. I have always loved clean and simple piano compositions, and his CD is a beautiful compilation of musical talent--perfect for a dinner party or easy listening.

Chris and his wife are raising a beautiful little girl, Isla, who is hearing impaired. Check out his story, like him on Facebook or enjoy his music with a CD or an Itunes Download.

Ten commenters on this post will be randomly selected to win a free CD, All You Know by Chris Schuette. Winners announced in Friday's post.

A smile for you.

I'll be back Thursday for my last Hallmark sponsored post. It will be oozing with Christmas spirit.

Good night!

Falalalala. For reals.

2011-11-28T06:56:00.000-08:00

I have danced to Brenda Lee's Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree probably sixteen times now this week. And it's only Monday, so that's saying something. That's sixteen living room twirls, sixteen jazz hands and sixteen final high kicks.

I am loving the process of filling this last volume of stories as purposefully as we can before we add it to the shelf and slide the bookend into place...our year, our family, our good, our not-so-good, our celebrations.

Molded Star Ornament, Lisa Leonard. Her holiday decor is simple and beautiful.

I have nothing of real substance to write today. To be honest, I'm about one Christmas carol away from donning green tights and taking my high kick to the road--a one woman Christmas variety show. I was going to simmer my enthusiasm down a bit for the post, but that's, like, holiday blasphemy. So here's me, ice skating a choreographed performance to Joy to the World, in the Christmas village that dwells in my head.

Dude, we have a Christmas village now. A magical Christmas village that takes Lainey's imagination to cold, snowy, picturesque places. It was the boys' when they were little and their mama passed it on to our house.

This weekend, we continued the tradition of attending my friend Amy's annual gingerbread party.

We watched as little girls tediously piped frosting, arranged gum drops, and overlapped candy-coated chocolate dots to make festive roof displays.

Followed by an animated reading of Frosty the Snowman.

And at home, we frosted every corner with decorations--sparkly little things that caught the eyes of curious girls who will know that this time of year is special.

With all this holiday cheer, I might not even need my daily positive energy spray.

More on this later. Wait for it. It's good.

Cool D.I.Y. Holiday Gift. We actually made this right when we returned from Blog Her, after I hit up a S'mores Party one of the BlogHer sponsors was holding. It was basically a table with a can of Sterno, a fondue stick and some S'mores ingredients, but when you put them all together, it feels like a cozy indoor camping party. And I thought, how easy a gift would that be? Answer: Very.

Decorate a shoe box (we used an empty photo box I had), wrap ingredients (2 Hershey bars, a bag of marshmallows, a bag of graham crackers) with pretty ribbons, make a few cute tags, throw in a few fondue sticks and a can of Sterno (ethanol gel), and Voila.

Party in a Box. Or Box 'o Party, however you want to call it. Great holiday gift for cool neighbors, teacher, friends, yourself.

We are making these later this week.

And my current favorites on our holiday playlist:

Sufjan Stevens, Joy to the World
Mason Jennings, Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Brenda Lee, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree
The Carpenters, Selections from the Nutcracker
She & Him, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Zee Avi, No Christmas for Me
Jack Johnson, Someday at Christmas
Sufjan Stevens, Lo! How Arose E'er Blooming
The Carpenters, Merry Christmas Darling
Leone Redbone & Zoey Deschanel, Baby, It's Cold Outside
Eartha Kitt, Santa Baby
Bing Crosby, White Christmas
Frank Sinatra, The Christmas Song

And finally, today's sponsor? I've been waiting for them all my life. The Unicorn Breath Spray? Yeah, that's them. Blue Q. Amazing, funny, unique, fill-in-the-adjective gifts that are sure to be conversation pieces. I must have spent a half hour just clicking on different products on their site. And then I started reading the "About Us" section and I fell in love with this company. What they're doing, how they're doing it.

First, check out the bags, made from 95% post-consumer material. Big bags, little bags, bags with zippers, bags with handles, bags with hilarious sayings, bags with colorful art. Their overnight bags hold more stuff than you could ever imagine--and this coming from a serious over-packer.

My Darling, Planet Earth Airmail Zippered Pouch

Lux Shoulder Tote

And their funky retro cigar boxes:

And before I show you more, let me tell you a little bit more about this company. Blue Q designs and manufactures everything they sell. And they have fun doing it (obvious from their products and a work environment that sometimes looks like this). Blue Q has been the largest private employer of individuals with disabilites in Western Massachussetts for over 10 years, and if you watch this, you'll appreciate them so much more. They have art and theater classes and company football games--all beautifully blending their work force of employees of all abilities.

Not to mention, they sell a "Savin' Up for a Unicorn" Tin Bank. Be still my heart.

Left, Happy Food Town Tote, our new restaurant bag; Right: Unicorn Bank

Once you're in the site, you'll go poking around and, I promise, you will laugh. You'll find stuff you love. You'll stop complaining that you picked Uncle Floyd's name for this year's exchange because the man is in dire need of some Erase Your Past Tea and a Yo, Check the Perm book.

Heavy Lifting Paper Lantern

Hello Stocking Stuffer Gum.

Alright, I'm done. But seriously, put Blue Q on your radar. They know what they're doing. On orders over $40 through December 1, use code freerules for free shipping. And keep checking their site. They have new deals every week (and free stuff next week!)

Time to deck some halls. The North Pole is coming to our home later this week. More to come.

Pssst....the cat came back.

Happy Monday, Friends!

Busybody

2011-11-25T13:08:00.000-08:00

A friend asked me yesterday what my December looked like and, instinctively, I began to reply "busy." "Busy" is how I always respond, and it's become second nature to have it ready to fire off in response to any question.

"Hey, haven't seen you in a while, how's it going?"
Great, but busy.

"We missed you last week, where were you?"
Sorry, I've been busy.

"Hey, how's your family?"
So freaking busy, how's yours?

And Busy becomes this black hole that mysteriously abducts us away from the humble land of availability. I've lately been reminded though that every one's busy. They're just not so jackass to have to shout it from the rooftop.

I think we often make the mistake of assuming that our worth somehow corresponds with how busy we are. I've done it myself--advised dating friends that if a guy calls, tell him you're busy. You're in demand. You're just sooooo tied up with fabulous things that make you busy, busy, busy.

When my dad was in college, he worked as an orderly in a nursing home. He said employees used to laugh listening to the residents as they gathered in the lounge at the end of the day. While most of them had spent their days sleeping, knitting, wandering the halls, at night those banal routines transformed into embellished stories of just how very busy they were. And whether or not their tales were altered by dementia, it was obvious they understood the idea that they were admired, even just within the small community of wheelchairs, if they spent their days tied up with very important things.

"What did you do today, Florence?"
"Well, funny you should ask, Lloyd. I was so busy."

I'm tired of the word busy. Try saying it over and over--it's annoying. I've been busy all year (I swear I'm going to stop saying busy), and it's time to take a tip from those old people and take some time to slowly shuffle, fold wash cloths, knit booties and maybe even play a game of cribbage or two. That makes us significant just as much as crazy schedules, if not more.

If companies struggle all year to break even and Black Friday finally flips the switch to gaining profit, then perhaps I should, likewise, focus on the rest of the year as pure gain. I'm going to enjoy it.

I stopped myself yesterday before I answered. You know what? We're not busy right now. Our December is full of opportunities to connect--calendar dates that call for both Out & About as well as Idle & Home. Busy is far too cheap a word to depict the ever changing harmony of opportunities, responsibilities or whatever it is that makes the clean grid of a December calendar swell.

Besides, December's still a week away, and there are still a few boxes left on my November calendar here. This weekend, we took the responsibility of filling those days very seriously. If I had to write something across the days of our Thanksgiving weekend, I think it would be a smiley face. And "HELL YEAH." Caps Lock. Because pie always calls for a hell yeah.

We determined this was our fifth year in donning festive pajamas for the annual breakfast tradition.

We added chocolate chip pancakes to Nella's list of favorite foods.

And the scene in our friends' kitchen unfolded to everything that is the opposite of busy. In a word, it was good.

Home & Idle, Take Two. Thanksgiving Evening.

Fallen Branch + Borrowed Electric Saw + Husband who Nervously Used Electric Saw = Wood Slab Tea Light Holders

I felt grateful--reminded that, no matter how busy we are, what matters most is this.

The opportunity to connect.

And whether your life right now is really challenging, really great or somewhere in between, everyone has the opportunity to connect.

Connecting with people and moments and all the elements that make up our surroundings--that's what makes us most significant. I felt it this weekend. As I absorbed every little detail about the holiday--the candles; the music; the kitchen timer beeping; the little girls running circles around the table; Brett's content smile; the echo of laughter, some distinct and louder than others; the mess of dishes that followed a great meal--I felt so very significant, not because I felt blessed but because I allowed myself to connect with it all. The people, the sounds, the tastes, the distinct feeling that comes with opening yourself up to be moved, to be affected, to be inspired.

I'm never too busy for that.

*****

Today is Small Business Saturday, an appropriate opportunity to highlight so many of our sponsors.

SweetSeat returns this month with their hand-crafted stylish booster chairs. SweetSeat is made up of a Texas couple and their three boys. After searching for a portable booster seat that's easy to clean, nice to look at and quality made, they decided to create one. Each chair is made on the family's Texas farm and functions not only as a booster chair for your dinner table but as a portable restaurant chair or play chair for your floor.

The best part? It's easy to wipe clean.

The SweetSeat makes an awesome holiday gift and, and use code KELLE, you'll receive 10% off!

*****

Sponsor Tea Collection is also offering a huge sale of $15 Dresses and Pants but only until tomorrow! Happy Holiday Shopping.

*****

Friday Photo Dump, a day late and a dollar short:

Enjoy your family this weekend! Here on out? It's all profit, Sistahs.

gobble, gobble

2011-11-23T16:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm not going to lie. I'm a little bit on Cloud 9, so much that I want to finish this post quickly so I can return to it--this holiday cup of half freaking full.

I spent a lot of time the past couple days doing things I usually dread. Cleaning clutter piles and emptying laundry baskets past the top layer of things I wear, into the middle layer of things I hardly wear and finally deep into the abyss of that bottom layer in the laundry basket--the one that sits for months. It contains strange items that have no place--the belt that goes to that one Halloween costume, the newborn sweater that never got packed up, the cloth napkins that need to be ironed.

I put them all away and soon remembered the satisfaction that comes from a really good clean. Our nest feels so cozy.

*****

We took the Bedazzlewagon for a quick spin last night, but it has many a rides still ahead.

It jingles when it rolls.

*****

Sister does a mad crawl to get to the little car when she sees Lainey passing by. She usually catches up and hops on while it's moving. A bit like jumping a train.

She's got skills.

*****

I told Brett today I wish we had acorns down here because I needed them for my table decor. He informed me we do indeed have something acornish and then he sent me on a mad goose chase, down the street and around the corner, where he swore there was a big tree scattered with nutty balls. He lied. I scoured every tree in a three block radius, holding my little paper cup ready to scoop up my acorns. I did, however, find pine cones and dried skinny leaves in our woods. A little hot glue and a chalkboard painted tongue depressor and, voila...place cards. I love tables set with place cards. It says, "Move over ordinary table. Make way for holiday."

*****

Oh, and look. Little Baby Narcolept fell asleep during lunch again.

That about does it today. Family awaits.

*****

Cozy Rags Giveaway Winner:

Comment #20, Simply B: Tired of: the whole world asking me what I'm going to do when I graduate college in six months. As if I'm supposed to have my entire life planned out. And as if they had their entire lives planned out when they were my age...
Not tired of: my dad repeatedly asking what time I'll be home for Thanksgiving. Just another beautiful reminder that I'm going home!

Congratulations, Simply B! Please send your contact info to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net, and your phone will soon be all cozy in its Phone Sax coat.

*****

Thirty-One Gifts Independent Consultant, Jenny Williams, returns this week as a sponsor, bringing her company's great selection of bags, totes and purses along. Being one that can use a little help in the organization department, I love how purposeful these bags are--designed with thought. There's a tote for every occasion and a solution to every problem. I love the square shape and pocket in the Littles Carry All Caddy.

...and the compact 5-Pocket Clutch--the perfect size to carry a diaper, my wallet, phone and lipstick and yet still room for extras.

This month, for every $31 you spend, you get the Littles Carry All Caddy for only $1. Happy Shopping!

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Two quick matters of business:

Thank you for all of your Scentsy orders this month. Jessica Clough has raised an impressive amount for Nella's Rockstars Fund, and we are so grateful for her contribution. There's still time to add to the fund. Shop Nella's Basket Party, and stock up on holiday scents.

Also, Michelle Timmons, Arbonne Independent Consultant, is running a free shipping special until Monday, November 28th. E-mail her your Arbonne order (mitimmons1978@yahoo.com) and mention Enjoying the Small Things, and your shipping will be free!

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There is a lot I am thankful for today, much of which gets expressed in my writing and photos every week. Tonight, I just want to say I am thankful for all of you. Blogging is an interesting concept, but at its core, it allows the connection of ideas and expression between people that might not otherwise have the opportunity to connect. I am so thankful for this outlet and for the inspiration I draw from coming here to do what I love. Thank you for supporting us with your readership and for adding your voice. No matter where you are or what you celebrate, have a Happy Thanksgiving!