Finding Ninee » Sharing our parenting and special needs stories with heart and humor.

My parents were big believers in camping. Each summer, they consulted maps, weather patterns, calendars, and the neighbor’s availability to water our many macrame-potted ferns. They made plans, and the five of us loaded up into my dad’s green Scout International named Homer, complete with a CB to converse with truckers to get the 10-4 on […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Dana - I did not go camping as a kid, and therefore I detest it as an adult. S’mores are awesome though.

    The party will be awesome. How can a Superhero party not be? James had one when he was younger too. I understand be stressed about it though – you will survive and Tucker will have a blast.

    I’ll be thinking of him when I too am sniffling in bed tonight. I shove a tissue up my nose so I can get some sleep…have you tried that? It’s very classy – Matt loves it.

    Jeez, this is the most all over the place comment ever. Sorry!June 11, 2015 – 10:17 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - S’mores ARE awesome. Camping can be but it’s also a ton of work and better in Colorado than here because here has bugs and snakes more than Colorado and I’m terrified of bugs and snakes. Of course, Colorado had that rattler… huh.
      I HAVE tried the tissue up the nose! It’s brilliant AND sexy. Win win for sure.June 12, 2015 – 9:18 amReplyCancel

  • Reta Jayne - Awww. I bet his birthday WILL be fabulously fun. . . & I can SO relate to those bedtime moments. . . The irritation followed by a realization of what a blessing that moment really is. . . Those are the moments to live for. . .June 11, 2015 – 10:19 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - They so are the moments to live for, Reta Jayne! Thank you and I’ll let you know how his party goes!June 12, 2015 – 4:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Allie - Oh honey, please don’t put so much pressure on yourself. I am confident that every summer has been awesome in Tucker-World:)! And I know his party will be perfect. And honestly…he probably won’t…well you know where I’m going:)!…remember this summer. I just quizzed H&A and they don’t remember the road trip from 2011 – and they’re 14 &10! Just take it day by day.June 11, 2015 – 10:20 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks Allie! He better remember this! Or, I’d better take tons of photos to prove to him later what an awesome party he had!!June 12, 2015 – 6:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I’m so impressed that your family went camping. We never did, but always stayed in fleabag motels, which in some ways is close to camping? Anyway, I totally get you being stressed about the party. I always used to say that throwing my kids birthday parties was more stressful than planning a wedding. I guess it’s bc you so want all the kids to have fun and then you also worry about the parents…I just think it’s awesome that tucker wants a party and is so into it. As long as he has fun, nothing else matters.:)June 11, 2015 – 11:25 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Fleabag motels are totally close to camping! Except you know – no bugs and dirt and stuff. I’m so happy that he’s totally into his party! This is a first and the way I see it, totally counts as a milestone!June 12, 2015 – 6:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - Stay here forever Mommy? I bet you just melted and clung to that bed with all that you had. What a wondrous phrase. From anyone. And doubly so from Tucker.June 11, 2015 – 11:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Nicki - My mom had a CB – don’t ask me why but I only remembered now reading about your dad and Homer! And also… vaginas.
    Everything about this is so right… especially the author and the amazing mom, friend, person she is!June 12, 2015 – 12:43 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - Oh my word your Dad’s line – that is HILARIOUS! I think that’s the best parent line ever.
    As for the birthday party…are you seriously having Tucker’s first ever real birthday party on Saturday??? Guess who else is doing that? Us! For Zilla! And yeah, we might be a bit overboard, too. I’m over it. They’re so worth it.
    I feel so much the same some days…did it today…where all I can think (and unfortunately sometimes say) is PLEASE stop talking. You talk from the minute your eyes open until the second they close at night – and even then you sometimes keep going. But if she ever stopped? Can’t even.
    I’ve been everywhere you took us in this post…well, except camping. No freaking way. Camp Marriott is roughing it enough for me.
    I love your post – as always – and I love you! <3June 12, 2015 – 12:54 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Happy happy birthday to Zilla, Lisa! And yes! Tomorrow (even though his birthday isn’t for three more weeks). YAY that they’re on the same day!! I hope you and your family have a very excellent time and that it’s even better than you hope it to be. No camping for you huh? I don’t think I’d camp out here in VA – too humid. Too many ticks. I love you too and can’t wait to hear about the partay!!June 12, 2015 – 7:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - I hope the birthday party goes really well. It sounds like your summers were a mixture, but the good bits stayed, and that you’re determined to create good bits for Tucker. I think he’ll remember, and good for you. And YAY FRIENDS! That made me smile huge that he wanted to invite so many people.June 12, 2015 – 5:30 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - YAY FRIENDS! I know right? I let him invite everybody he wanted and didn’t say “oh we should…” I went with it. No guilt. Total fun.June 12, 2015 – 7:19 pmReplyCancel

  • Katy @ Experienced Bad Mom - Oh my word, treasure those words forever, Kristi! I wish you the best with the party and I hope for good weather and good attendance. It is only now with my second child still having birthday parties that I feel like I get it right. Before, with my first, birthday parties were stressful because I worried too much. So I hope you can learn from my errors, be flexible, and go with the flow whatever that day brings!

    I had to laugh at the CB. We spent 2-3 weeks in a RV every summer, which was way better than a car I bet. But I mostly recall reclining in the back reading book after book while my parents seemed irritated that I wasn’t looking out the window taking it all in.June 12, 2015 – 7:50 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Katy! Here’s to being flexible and the kids (and the parents) having fun! HAHA to the RV and your parents being irritated you sat in the back and read! Also sounds way more comfortable than our deal – the Scout (Homer) was so packed that we couldn’t even sit up – we had to lie down on top of the gear!June 12, 2015 – 7:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - Oh my friend you got the night perfectly right. And the party? I’ll be sending good vibes your way. You are braver than I amJune 12, 2015 – 10:05 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I hope it goes well! I’m nervous. Tucker’s excited. We’ll see and yes, keep sending the good vibes!June 12, 2015 – 7:53 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Beautiful Kristi! Even when we wing it I think we get it right. All our kids want (now) is for us to be there (accessible). You did give me slight anxiety about the party. Is it the kind of party where the parents hang out somewhere – helicoptering? Finally on this end I think we are all done with the snuffy allergies. I don’t know when I stopped clearing my throat. I just realized I hadn’t in a while when reading this.June 12, 2015 – 10:41 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kenya,
      Yup. It’s at our gym (Lifetime Fitness – not sure if you have those down there). There’s going to be an obstacle course, a bounce house, superhero cape making, swimming, pizza and cupcakes. Each kid has one parent staying. So yes, helicoptering although I’m okay with that during the swimming part because Tucker can’t swim yet. It’s got the beach entry so super shallow 1/2 but then it gets deeper…
      I still have the snuffly allergies!June 12, 2015 – 7:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - I hope Tucker has a wonderful birthday party–and a wonderful birthday in July!June 12, 2015 – 11:21 amReplyCancel

  • Mimi - Kristi, it’s going to be an awesome party! And can’t believe how we both wrote about our boys and their beautiful hard earned voices. ESP via cyberspace. Thanks for sharing your fond memories about camping. I’m not much for the woods, but I understand the benefits and hope my children learn them with summer camp. Haha. Can’t wait to hear about the big soirée. Have a ball!!June 12, 2015 – 12:02 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Mimi, I loved your post! I love that ours were so similar. May the Force be with you and Mr. B all summer (and all lifetime) long. So hey – Tucker hasn’t seen Star Wars yet. I was wondering if it’d be too violent but maybe not since Mr. B has seen them all?? HAHA to Summer Camp! Thank you!June 12, 2015 – 8:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Gretchen - This is beautiful, tearfully heart swelling-ly beautiful. And a reminder for all of us to soak up those moments when our kids want us near them. I am constantly worrying about what I’m getting wrong as a parent but those moments, the lying in bed answering random questions moments are the ones we’ll remember. That they’ll remember. Thank you for this…June 12, 2015 – 4:41 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thank you Gretchen! I so appreciate your kind words! And you’re so right – those moments at night, when we can just relax and not worry about all of the to-do’s and listen to questions like why skeletons don’t have eyeballs, that’s what we’ll remember. xoJune 12, 2015 – 8:16 pmReplyCancel

  • Marcia @ Menopausal Mother - “Stay here forever, Mommy.” THAT just melted me.June 13, 2015 – 12:16 amReplyCancel

  • Sandra - Well I’m slowly getting back into the groove of blogging. This is definitely a blog hop I’ll join next week. Your writing is exquisite and you know the precise moment to tug on my tear ducts. PS: I. Love. Your. Dad! !!!!!June 13, 2015 – 12:23 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sandra,
      I think you’ll really like this bloghop. It’s not just a linkie dump party – everybody visits a bunch of blogs and it’s a great group. Looking forward to you joining next week! And thank you for your kind words about my writing. I love my dad too! He’s awesome 🙂June 14, 2015 – 11:32 amReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - “Stay here forever, Mommy” – it just doesn’t get much better than that!June 14, 2015 – 2:10 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - “If I hear one more word about poop, gas, or vaginas, I’m leaving you all on the side of the road!”!!!
    ha!
    With Scarlet also turning six in early July, we do our parties in late June before everyone, including us, goes away.
    I’m totally stressing. And totally digging it too. There are eight more days of school, but who’s counting? A wide summer is still ahead.June 14, 2015 – 8:32 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Don’t stress, just dig. Our party yesterday was totally awesome (said with the Valley Girl accent which you may be too young to get but trust me it rocked). We have 5 more days of school. Countdown, baby.June 14, 2015 – 10:36 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - I’m not much of a camper. Sleeping on the ground (albeit inside a tent) with no electricity and no running water just does not sound like fun to me! 🙂 As for the rest of it, you get it right a lot, Mama! If only we really could stay forever.June 14, 2015 – 2:43 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’m no longer much of a camper, either, Lisa, but I used to be and kinda miss it (but not here in VA where there are too many ticks). And yeah, if we stayed forever… xoJune 14, 2015 – 10:37 pmReplyCancel

  • April G - I feel for Tucker. I haven’t been able to sleep at all because my sinuses have been completely closing up as soon as I lay down. Ick!

    Can you do summer wrong? Enjoy your time together and he’ll remember them. 🙂June 15, 2015 – 4:13 pmReplyCancel

The world needs a lot. Greater empathy, kindness, acceptance. Respect for one another regardless of differences, beliefs, gender, and lifestyle. The world also needs a more global approach to special needs support at school. But, today’s story is not one about special needs schooling (stay tuned, there is a post in drafts right now), or […]

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by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
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  • Allie - AMEN sister! I seriously could not agree more. And why is there always a hot side kick for the super heroes and they never get any “powers” until the sequel – Yes, talking to you Gwyneth/Pepper Potts!June 4, 2015 – 10:16 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - YES YES YES Allie!!! OMG I wish I had more time with this because SO TRUE>June 4, 2015 – 10:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - Oh, absolutely. This is very true and while it seems trivial, it’s really not. It’s a big deal when kids try to find that hero, role model, etc. to identify with and get nothing. A society so far advanced and we still can’t come up with decent strong heroes for women? Honestly.
    On a lighter note, Iron Man is one of my favorites – him and Batman. Guess I go for the regular guy with lots of cool stuff model. And both are sort of dark, brooding, mysterious. OK, and cute. Let’s be fair. 😀June 4, 2015 – 10:45 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - hahahh Lisa YES, I agree and I agree with my son liking Iron Man and Batman and they are awesome and cool and dark and YES!!! But um, yeah, what about you and me who could also be superheroes??? 🙂June 4, 2015 – 10:50 pmReplyCancel

      • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - Hell yes we’re superheroes. And we need to not forget that, right?June 4, 2015 – 11:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Reta Jayne - Yes! The world DOES need more girl superheroes!June 5, 2015 – 3:02 amReplyCancel

  • Dana - Hell yes! I had Spider Woman underoos when I was a kid, and my sister had Bat Girl. It never occurred to us that these characters were just made up (as opposed to male superheroes, hah!)…but then again, we didn’t have any brothers to tell us differently.

    I bet there is a start up campaign somewhere with female superheros who are just as awesome as male ones. But in terms of main stream media? Nope. Girls get princesses – don’t get me started on that!June 5, 2015 – 7:05 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Yeah, the whole princess thing is such a disappointment. I love the idea of a campaign where female superheroes are as cool as male ones! If one doesn’t exist, I should start it. Except you know – time and stuff.June 5, 2015 – 11:36 amReplyCancel

  • My Inner Chick - –Brilliant.
    have you sent this off anywhere else like HUFF Post?
    It muuuuuuuuuuust be read by everybody.
    Also, I want the Super Hero Women to be big boned, not like Barbie Dolls!

    xxxxxJune 5, 2015 – 7:54 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Hi Kim!
      I haven’t… I feel like it needs some editing – as always, I waited right before the deadline of FTSF to write it… but thank you for thinking it’s Huff Po worthy!!! And YES! Screw Barbie Dolls and their stupid weird proportions!June 5, 2015 – 11:37 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - LOL he must have needed that cry and that answer was just the last straw. Poor thing. I can’t wait until he’s old enough to watch Avengers so he can meet Black Widow. She’s pretty cool and strong. Maybe you can pre-mom it and see if he’s ready for it. It’s PG-13. On another note of “girl stuff”, Christopher used to hate when people would say he looked like me. One day I asked him why that made him mad. He said, “Because I don’t want to look like a girl.” I had to tell him that he didn’t look like a girl no more than I look like a boy.June 5, 2015 – 9:34 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - OOH Black Widow, huh? So there IS a cool girl superhero?? I’m going to have to check it out. My husband was talking about Avengers but I think Tucker’s still a little young for it. Maybe not, though. I’ll have to watch it and see if it’s maybe too violent.
      Aww to Christopher not wanting to look like a girl! So cute!June 5, 2015 – 11:39 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Just gorgeous.
    As a superhero lover, and a mother of both a daughter and a son – both superhero lovers, I think a LOT about all of it. The powers, the colors, the role models, the messages. And I worry I’m ruining it all.
    And Tucker is just so adorable with his thoughts and the tears he clearly needed to get out!June 5, 2015 – 10:37 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Tamara,
      The whole superhero thing is a big deal! I love love them but sheesh why are there not cooler girl ones???June 5, 2015 – 11:45 amReplyCancel

  • Julie Jo Severson - I love your blunt honesty with everything you write Kristi. And, wow, can I ever relate to feeling like a failure in not understanding fully the emotions and tears of my children.June 5, 2015 – 11:04 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thanks, Julie! And yeah, figuring out the tears of children can be mystifying at times!June 5, 2015 – 11:45 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Well, of course I love this!! With three daughters, we are not into superheroes at all in our house. I think the fact that there are no good female superheroes is a big part of that. (Of course, they don’t know Wonder Woman because she was from when we were kids – the show anyway – but you are right – she has crappy powers compared to her male counterparts!)June 5, 2015 – 3:30 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Tucker is SO into superheroes and I do wonder whether the reason your girls aren’t into them and he is is because the girl superheroes have sucky powers compared to the boy ones!June 6, 2015 – 10:03 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - I had to come back because A) I love the comments here and 2) I remembered a girl – that character in Kick Ass or something? Pretty cool.
    I did love Wonder Woman, by the way…she was pretty tough.June 5, 2015 – 5:02 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - OOOH I’ll have to find the character you’re talking about in Kick Ass!!! Thank you!June 6, 2015 – 10:04 amReplyCancel

  • Nicki - I recently saw a few moments of an X-men movie in which January Jones was some kind of ice girl – her superpower was so lame and so was she. Infuriating!

    “Why cant the super strength-having Mega Hero also have boobs and be a mom?”

    LOVE what you are saying in this awesome piece. And also that Tucker asks which Spiderman is your favorite… That is so incredibly perceptive, because really that’s what superheroes are right, different aspects/facets of ourselves? Different egos. And that makes your question even more important!June 5, 2015 – 6:20 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - UGH to ice girl Nicki!!! I love your thought about superheroes being different aspects of ourselves!! Different egos indeed. Thanks, Love!June 6, 2015 – 10:06 amReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - Hmmmm … great point! I played with Barbie Dolls and we always had to put them in the fridge in the summer. Why? Their faces were melting in the heat! Noses were smushing over to the side. Horrific. I think you and Tuck are on to something. The world needs a “proper” superwoman – one who can fly and do all the super cool stuff and withstand any kind of heat.June 5, 2015 – 9:26 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kelly! Your Barbies faces melted in the sun?? Holy cow!! That’s got the makings of a horror movie. Yikes. And yes to the world needing a better Superwoman!!June 6, 2015 – 10:20 amReplyCancel

  • Marcia @ Menopausal Mother - Amen to this! Bring on the superhero females with extraordinary powers— but they DON’T have to look like Barbie dolls—just ordinary folk. 🙂June 6, 2015 – 12:24 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi - I did appreciate The Incredibles, but I think you are right–the vast majority of superheroes are men. No wonder it’s always the guys in my home that discuss the question, “If you could have any superpower, which would it be and why?”June 6, 2015 – 7:28 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I want superpowers! But yeah, kinda crazy about the majority of the superheroes being men. Gah.June 6, 2015 – 11:09 amReplyCancel

  • A.J. Goode - There have been a few powerful superheroines over the years — the Phoenix, She-Hulk, Rogue, Storm, the new Thor, etc — but you’re right that they seem to be more about looking pretty than crushing the villains.

    However, I remember an issue of Fantastic Four when Dr Doom realizes that Susan, The Invisible Girl, has the potential to be the most powerful member of her team. She had threatened to put an invisible force field inside his heart and expand it until his heart exploded.

    So she’s a pretty powerful superhero, but only after the bad guy threatened her baby. I think all of us Moms can relate, so maybe motherhood is the strongest superpower of all?June 7, 2015 – 7:09 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - AJ-
      I have to check out Invisible Girl because I’ve never even heard of her!! But yeah, sucks that she only got powerful after some superMAN threatened her baby. I mean, that part is cool because true but why couldn’t she kick butt before then???June 8, 2015 – 11:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Allison carter - I love this post!
    But, alas, I feel like this will happen when women and girls stop dressing up as “sexy ” for Halloween. Let’s keep trying though, together. Changing the world through words will be our superpower!June 8, 2015 – 8:40 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Allison! And yeah, quitting the sexy Halloween would certainly help. I mean, I understand women and girls wanting to look pretty and sexy but the whole slutty nurse? Not so much. And in a world when our magazine covers are airbrushed and photoshopped and and and… well yes. I LOVE that changing the world through our words being our superpower!June 9, 2015 – 11:32 amReplyCancel

  • Ashley - I LOVE THIS! You are so badass, Kristi! “KRISTI?! KRISTI CAMPBELL?!” 😉 hahaha it was SO awesome meeting you and spending time with you this weekend. You are one in a million. XoJune 8, 2015 – 11:54 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Ashley Smashley Ashley! So fun to see your awesome self here! I loved hanging out with you and meeting you. You’re a blast even when you have no idea who I am. xoJune 9, 2015 – 11:34 amReplyCancel

  • karen - A MILLION TIMES YES!!!! I am finding the same thing with AJ, he sees the world as boy vs girl and I never raised him like that. I am trying to get him to see it as anyone can do whatever they want.June 9, 2015 – 12:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Isn’t it interesting, Karen? I seriously have always told Tucker that girls and boys can do anything and yet, he’s convinced that boys are better superheroes because the shows he watches (and he doesn’t even watch many so even weirder but a lot of them were in Lego Movie) make the boys cooler with cooler powers. Argh.June 9, 2015 – 6:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - First I HATE it when an innocent game meant to draw us closer to our children end up smacking us in the face.

    But you are so right, there ARE girl superheros and they are not just eye candy. Hell they can poke your eye out with their stiletto. You just can never find them in the toy store, much to Abby’s dismayJune 11, 2015 – 3:24 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kerri,
      YES why can’t we find them more easily and what in the world has the world been teaching my boy about girls?June 11, 2015 – 7:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Comic Book Guy - This really is’t fair to the women of comics. I really think that what you are really lamenting is the world and the culture your son (and yourself) has been exposed to – it’s a lack of popular attention, not a lack of strong female superheroes that is the problem.

    It is unfortunate that most of the recent movies have featured male heroes (but look at movies in general), however, look at the comics world and you’ll quickly discover a vast array of extremely strong and capable women, many equal to or greater than Supes, Bats, or any Avenger. The new Thor, who is female, many female X-Men, She-Hulk, Power Girl, and The Invisible Woman – who is commonly considered by far the most powerful of the Fantastic Four.June 11, 2015 – 8:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Jolene @ Different Dream for My Child - All I can say is “My thoughts exactly!” The sexy girl costumes have bugged me for years. Thanks for adding this link to DifferentDream.com’s Tuesday special needs link up.June 11, 2015 – 8:14 pmReplyCancel

It being Thursday came as a surprise to me more than once today, which is not necessarily unique. What may be unique is that I’m continually startled by my surprise over what day it is. As if by now, I should have mastered knowing that I’m always a bit behind and overwhelmed and let’s face […]

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by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
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  • Reta Jayne - I can relate to the scatter-brained librarian you describe at the beginning. . . I feel like her most of the time. . . It is a struggle to piece thoughts together sometimes, but I recognize it is for very different reason than you describe here.

    It sounds like Tucker DOES work so incredibly hard on a day-to-day basis, but it seems like you do too — at making sure he is cared for & loved. Please don’t minimize THAT hard work in your recognition that he works hard too. How blessed you both are to have each other, it seems. . .May 28, 2015 – 10:05 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA Reta, I so feel like her most of the time as well! Yikes. Thanks so much for the sweet words about working hard to ensure Tucker’s loved and cared for. I appreciate it! And yes, we’re blessed. I feel lucky every day.May 29, 2015 – 5:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I love the 2 perspectives you gave us here – Tucker’s and yours. You BOTH Work hard, but in different ways. I also never realized he’s tall for his age…so was big dude – maybe you’ll have a 6 foot 8 teenager too!May 28, 2015 – 10:51 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Emily! I’m so glad you like it! And yeah, he’s super-tall for his age. When we booked his birthday party the other day, the woman assumed he’s turning eight instead of six. And maybe he will be as tall as Big Dude!May 29, 2015 – 5:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa Sadikman - I cannot really express how incredible this post is Kristi. I loved hearing Tucker’s voice and then yours but my favorite part is this: “We are all just living our own normals.” Amen to that. Sending you and Tucker lots of love and high fives for all the hard work. XxMay 28, 2015 – 11:07 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thank you so much Lisa! It makes me unbelievably happy that you liked it! And thanks for the love and high fives. I appreciate them too! xxooMay 29, 2015 – 5:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Because this whole autism word has been brought up again, I’m all adither about it. I hate this cusp. Her psychotherapist said that three evaluators would probably come back with yes, no, and maybe. Course I’d hate the label too.
    She is who she is, and I should spend more time trying to get in her head like you do with Tucker.May 28, 2015 – 11:11 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - The whole label thing is so hard. On one hand, they help get services. On the other, some people focus on the label and forget to look at the unique kid as a unique kid. Sorry that you’re going through the yes no and maybe stuff right now.May 29, 2015 – 5:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - “We’re all just living our own normals.” That is perfect and true and beautiful. That’s EXACTLY what I tell myself around here. A lot.
    Know what I love so much? How totally you get him. You are awesome. God knew what He was doing when He picked you for Tucker.May 28, 2015 – 11:25 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Yay to telling yourself that your normal is your normal!! And thank you so so much for your sweet and encouraging words. It means big much to me!!May 29, 2015 – 5:57 pmReplyCancel

      • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - <3May 30, 2015 – 12:58 amReplyCancel

  • Nicki - This. Is. Amazing.
    As are you. And Tucker.
    “We’re all just living our own normals.” All the feels. <3May 28, 2015 – 11:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Bev - This was so sweet, Kristi! It sounds like Tucker is making fantastic progress. That must be so exciting! I used to work with children on the autism spectrum, and each milestone for a child with special needs really is a celebration (and those of us who work with them are so proud of their hard work as well!).May 29, 2015 – 8:00 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Bev! He really is making wonderful progress – I’m so proud of him! I love that you get what each milestone really means! Thank you. xxooMay 29, 2015 – 6:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Labels are sticky (no pun intended) – you want them if they will help your child get the services he needs, but you don’t want him to be restricted by them. Who knows how you’ll feel about that label a year from now? So much uncertainty, but so much possibility.

    I love when you share Tucker’s voice with us. I want to meet him for real this summer – lets make that happen.May 29, 2015 – 8:58 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Let’s definitely make it happen so that you meet Tucker this summer! I’d love to meet your kids, too! And yeah, the label thing is rough. Sigh.May 29, 2015 – 6:02 pmReplyCancel

  • karen - Tucker is a hard worker, and he has a great support group who always cheers him on.May 29, 2015 – 9:24 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - We’re planning a birthday party for our July baby too! Sheesh, it’s hard. Magicians and bounce houses and Lego themes, galore.
    Wanna come?
    I love the beautiful look into the beautiful mind of Tucker. That takes intuition and love of super-heroic proportions.May 29, 2015 – 1:59 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - It IS hard. But fun too. And so adorable and yes I want to come!!! And I love your comment! <3May 29, 2015 – 6:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Allie - Genius as always. I love when you write in Tucker’s voice. And re4st assured about the swimming – Cammy – who is the baby, has been taking lessons for three years. I’m starting to think it’ s scam….May 29, 2015 – 3:22 pmReplyCancel

    • Allie - Oh, and I meant to have a party for my July baby, too. Right when school got out, because he’s never had a school friend party – ever. Only a sibling of his older brother and sister. But, nope. momma dropped the ball.May 29, 2015 – 3:26 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I hope it’s not a scam about the swimming lessons and thank you for your sweet words! And don’t beat yourself up about the birthday party. If Tucker weren’t so into having one this year, I’d just do our normal beach trip.May 29, 2015 – 6:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Roshni - They pretend to hate the kisses but they actually love it…really!!May 29, 2015 – 6:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - I love when you write from Tucker’s perspective – I’m feel like I really am in his head for a little while. And, in the head of other kids, too. He does work hard for sure. You work hard, too, and being the best mama you can be for him. I work hard for my girls. We all work hard – different hards – but hard.May 29, 2015 – 8:47 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks Lisa!!! I think this is only the second time I tried to write from his perspective and I’m sure once he’s old enough, he’ll be like MOM!!! But yeah, he does work hard and I know you work hard for your girls, too. It’s the mama way, and it’s awesome and horrifying and awful and amazing.May 29, 2015 – 10:22 pmReplyCancel

  • Marcia @ Menopausal Mother - I love the way you climbed into Tucker’s head and went through a day in his life. You are so connected, and so very lucky to have one another.May 29, 2015 – 11:44 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Not always connected but yes so lucky to have him! Thank you so much for your comment and for reading!May 30, 2015 – 12:00 amReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - I love how hard they work – when I think of all the work he has done, I am so proud of my guy. 🙂May 30, 2015 – 10:11 amReplyCancel

  • A.C. - The Academy for Precision Learning (http://www.aplschool.org) is a K-12 school that provides a nurturing, inclusive, and individualized learning experience for neurodiverse students. APL offers targeted opportunities that promote the academic achievement and social development of students who benefit from a smaller, supportive learning environment. Students are engaged in developmentally appropriate, data-informed, individualized experiences that put them on a path to achieving their greatest potential. APL meets our students where they are at, supporting each student to build on their unique strengths to become a curious and engaged life-long learner who celebrates diversity, practices self-advocacy, and generates impact in their community.May 30, 2015 – 2:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Kim - Every time I read one of your posts I think that Tucker is an amazing boy!!
    And, today I see him in his cute little hat (I’m pretending that it is a Texas Longhorn one even if it’s really that other UT:)!!!
    I hope you and Tucker are set to have a super summer!!May 30, 2015 – 8:32 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thank you Kim! He IS an amazing boy! So brave and full of light. All kids are, I know…but he’s mine so I guess I’m allowed some bias. LOL to Texas instead of TN. It’s orange and his name begins with T and his favorite color is orange AND his dad grew up in TN. It’s sorta a thang.May 31, 2015 – 8:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Brittnei - I’ve missed your blog! I’m glad I came over tonight and read this post. I love how you gave what you thought Tucker’s perspective on things in his life are right now and yours. I’m so sorry about what happened to him on the bus. I’m glad things seem to be going ok right now. I love how you describied how he’s evolving. I think I just realized something about your explanation of not really being sure that he has autism. I’ve transformed over the last few months and one thing I can say for certain is that I try to steer clear of labels. This is most likely the reason that I didn’t see Tucker as autistic even months ago when we first met. 🙂 I just saw Tucker. The cute, adorable kid that has a super cool mom who keeps it real with the world as she writes it as she sees it. Everyone is just an individual in my eyes…learning and growing as they are. Though I choose to stay clear of labels and just focus on who people are as they are, I do respect some people’s desire to use them for whatever reason. We all have to do whatever we think is right for us. 🙂May 30, 2015 – 11:34 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Brittnei!! I’ve missed you, too! I’m so proud of you with your new project – so important and powerful! And I do remember you telling me on IM like maybe a year ago that you don’t think Tucker is autistic. We’re definitely dealing with quite a few delays but I no longer think so either AND I don’t CARE if he has the label or not – it used to feel like a big deal but you’re right – what’s a freaking label? Kids are kids are kids and people are people are people.
      xooxoMay 31, 2015 – 8:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - “We’re all just living our own normals.” That sums it up perfectly. And what a wonderful little man Tucker is for telling you about Nico and the episode on the bus. It must have been gutwrenchingly difficult to hear it.
    I”m off to share this beaut of a post.May 31, 2015 – 11:12 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - It was So hard to hear it, Kelly!!! And yeah, we ARE all living our own normals, right? I mean, yours with raising your children alone and your awesome mom with her purple pants, and all of it. Me, here, and yes I’m so so glad he told me about Nico on the bus.May 31, 2015 – 9:41 pmReplyCancel

  • Carin Kilby Clark - I absolutely loved reading Tucker’s point-of-view. SO inspiring! And I love the line “we’re all just living our own normals” because it’s true for everyone. No two lives are the same and it’s important not to judge or critique and just live your own normal. Thanks for that!June 1, 2015 – 9:00 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Carin!!! And yeah, we really are just all living our own normals. It’s hard to accept and harder to not compare but I think there’s beauty in there somewhere.June 1, 2015 – 10:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Honey - I love how your wrote this post giving the 2 perspectives! “We are living our own normal”. Love that! It is so true. It’s so easy to compare our lives and our situations to others. It is so not worth it!June 2, 2015 – 10:44 amReplyCancel

  • Hanna - Your story is very inspirational! Thank you for sharing. I wish all kids with ASD had a mom like yourself 🙂June 2, 2015 – 5:08 pmReplyCancel

  • My Inner Chick - —Brilliant photo.
    Fabulous words.
    Adorable Tucker.

    xxxxxJune 2, 2015 – 10:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandra - I won’t claim to know even a little bit of what your life is like. But growth and milestones are achievements just like any other. PS: I kind of wanted to kick little Nico’s ass…is that wrong?June 8, 2015 – 12:08 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - F@CK NO it’s not wrong to want to kick little Nico’s ass! ME TOO!!! (also huge points to me that I didn’t right????)
      And yeah, the growth and milestones. They happen when they happen. Thank you!June 8, 2015 – 11:18 pmReplyCancel

Today, while watching my five-year-old climb steep stairs that terrify me so that he could ride the Big Slide at our local fair without me, I felt pride, fear, and thankfulness that today, with all that’s going on in the news, that my biggest worries were sunburn and diarrhea from us eating fried Oreos. My […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Yvonne - Lizzi has pretty much said everything I was thinking, so I’ll just add how wonderful it is to see how Tucker is progressing. I’m not surprised you feel thankful!May 25, 2015 – 5:57 amReplyCancel

    • Yvonne - PS I’d never heard of fried oreos before, and neither had my kids. I mentioned them and now of course they want to make some! 🙂May 25, 2015 – 8:53 amReplyCancel

      • Kristi Campbell - PS yesterday is the first time we’ve tried fried Oreos. They cover them in batter, deep fry them and then sprinkle powdered sugar on them. They’re pretty delicious – let me know if you and your kids try them!!May 25, 2015 – 12:34 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Tucker’s doing so well, Yvonne and thank you!May 25, 2015 – 12:33 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - What a remarkable man. My dad fought in Vietnam, and when I hear the stories of the things he endured, I just can’t fathom it. We are so, so blessed to live in a place that does not see the horrors of war. But it also means we forget that others do. We, in our safe neighborhoods and pampered lifestyle, forget that people live through atrocities we can’t even imagine. It is good to have a reminder now and again to keep ourselves in check. Thank you for sharing Joey’s story with us.May 25, 2015 – 7:04 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Christine, whenever I hear stories on what any military members have seen and been and gone through, I’m so humbled and awed. It’s almost impossible to imagine, I think, unless we’d been through it ourselves. You’re so right that we in our safe neighborhoods and pampered lives forget. Thank you so much for your comment and for reading about Joey.May 25, 2015 – 12:36 pmReplyCancel

  • ivy - Wow.just wow and immense gratitudeMay 25, 2015 – 9:39 amReplyCancel

  • Nina - Wow, this is an awesome interview and read, Kristi. I think about what we have here too compared to other parts of the world. How fortunate we are that our biggest problems are often first-world problems. About the stomach flue or the car not starting. There’s definitely a lot to be thankful for.May 25, 2015 – 9:44 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Nina! I’m so glad you came by and read it. You’re right that so often our problems are first-world problems… stomachs and cars… here’s to remembering to be thankful for our first world problems. Easier said than done at times I think!May 25, 2015 – 12:37 pmReplyCancel

  • Erin - Amazing story- and a great reminder- I love your perspective on things!!May 25, 2015 – 4:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - I’m glad you had some unfiltered joy this weekend. I’m glad you introduced me to Joey. Thank you.May 25, 2015 – 10:44 pmReplyCancel

  • karen - Beautiful post and right on! Freedom is not free, those people who complain about the military and stomp on our flags…do they realize the only reason they can do that and put a video of it is because they are in America. I’d like them to try that in another country and see what happens.

    I agree with you on the nasty Duggars…the whole family has issues. Those poor girls, but they are in a cult.

    I am so glad you and Tucker got to enjoy so many wonderful things this weekend. We watched a Memorial Day parade this weekend…I got quite teary eyed. I tried to teach my son that all this is because people fought and died and people are still fighting for our freedoms.

    Thank you Joey Jones and all those who are serving and have served, and those who scarified. Thank you to your families for letting us witness your bravery.May 26, 2015 – 10:44 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw I love that you got teary eyed watching a Memorial Day parade – events like that always make me tear up as well. And yeah, freaking Duggars. Ugh. Thanks for stopping by to thank Mr. Jones (and all of the US Vets) for their service. You’re so right that people don’t easily realize that our freedoms are so so sacred.May 27, 2015 – 10:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - I love the way you connected the sense of peace and childlike enjoyment with the remembrance of those who assure that tranquility. Truly, we have so much to be grateful for, and we owe so much to those selfless, courageous men and women.May 26, 2015 – 1:37 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Kristi!! I think it’s important to remember how connected all of the things really truly are… I hope you and your family had a wonderful long weekend.May 27, 2015 – 10:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - That Cracker Barrel story is so sweet! Clearly, someone is being discreet and awesome.
    I hope no one got diarrhea from fried Oreos, my dear. It was a sobering day for us of the kinds of freedoms many people can only dream about.May 26, 2015 – 4:36 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Nobody got diarrhea from the fried Oreos (and why is it that I can never ever spell diarrhea???). I love the Cracker Barrel story. And yes – our freedoms. Yes. xoMay 27, 2015 – 10:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - This was a terrific post, Kristi! Thank you so much for sharing this important information and do it so beautifully. A wonderfully written piece.May 27, 2015 – 10:30 amReplyCancel

I may have run out of tricks to make my husband offer to do the grocery shopping alone, or, even better, with our son Tucker. Him offering to stop on the way home, or after an outing without me doesn’t happen often, but when it does, I feel a sense of accomplishment. Like any good […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Janine Huldie - Having girls, I don’t have penis issues at the grocery store, but trust me the grocery store and my girls is no day at the beach either. When in doubt, I usually send my husband by himself or go alone while he watches them, because I could write novels on the things they have done in the grocery store. I will just share one of the many finer moments that happened to me when Lily was a toddler and she decided she would undress herself right before I was about to check out. Nothing was finer than having a little old lady tell me that my baby was half naked in the grocery checkout line!!May 21, 2015 – 10:10 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Janine, the grocery store is maybe never a day at the beach? I love that you send Kevin whenever you can and that you get why I need to send Robert when I can!! OUCH to Lily undressing herself! Also hahah!!! Too funny!!!May 22, 2015 – 10:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - THANK YOU! I am not alone. Picture it – we’re in the liquor store (yes, here in Canada – except in Quebec – you have to buy your booze in a specially designated booze store.Ok this is changing soon here in BC but still…) and strolling the busy aisles looking for wine. My son – age 8 – announces to the entire store that his penis is practising. Uh huh. Practising.May 21, 2015 – 10:11 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - In Colorado you have to go to a separate store as well so I was delighted and shocked that we can buy wine in grocery stores here in VA! But OMG his penis was practicing!!! HAHAHAHA and horrifying.May 22, 2015 – 10:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Beth Siebert - It started in the line at the grocery store When my son was happily bouncing around. An elderly black woman began yelling him to behave. I was writing the check as fast as I could, praying to the Lord to survive this ordeal when I explained to the woman, “My son has autism.” She yelled louder, “I do not care what he has I to,d him to be still.”. I took a deep breath and went back to pay the grocer for a quick exit and then it happened…my son ripped the back woman’s wig off. The elderly nearly bald woman hair lay on the floor. My son grabbed me in fear it was a alive. I picked it up, dusted it off and handed it back to the woman apologizing. That woman was so mad and I had not even noticed she wore a wig. My black girl friend told me that black women do in fact wear wigs and Alex had committed the cardinal sin against a black woman that day by pulling her wig off. For me picking between the DMZ between North and South Korea or going to the grocery store. The DMZ seems like a walk in the park. No penis involved but still really embarrassing.May 21, 2015 – 10:22 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - YIKES so embarrassing but also hilarious that Alex pulled the wig off a woman who was being mean to him!!May 22, 2015 – 10:59 pmReplyCancel

      • Beth Siebert - She thought she was just straightening him out until he snatched the wig off abd then she knew Autism was bot something that could be straightened out. I am so dumb I did not even know she had a wig on.

        Just trying to write the check and get out of there as fast as I could without incident.May 22, 2015 – 11:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Nicki - Your story about the gum and it being your mom’s fault reminds me of my little guy who is always late to class and says it’s not his fault the bell rings, it’s the principal’s fault, she rings the bell!

    HATE the grocery store. HATE! With kids or without. I go for the wine. And if I happen to pick up a few extra necessities so be it. Told you, haters stick together ;). And also, this is FUNNY! xxxMay 21, 2015 – 10:33 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA to the bell not being his fault. He has a point. Whoot to haters sticking together and also thank you for you.May 22, 2015 – 11:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - Oh hòw I hate the grocery store too. And I can promise you my boys have embarrassed me there on numerous occasions. I joke that we cause a scene wherever we go,except it ain’t no joke.:) personally, I think that tucker story is hilarious and sweet, but yeah I get how you might have been mortified at the time…May 21, 2015 – 11:20 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Emily,
      In reality, I think it’s pretty sweet as well although I WAS pretty embarrassed when I heard people laughing from the next aisle over. Still gotta love language and articulation!! 🙂May 22, 2015 – 11:02 pmReplyCancel

      • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Yep! Where I live, both Harris Teeter & Lowes Foods offer online shopping. You just go the the site, shop for all your items, and specify a pick up time (you have to give them at least 4 hours notice). Then, when you go to the store, there is a special pick up lane. You use a little call box to give them you name and they bring all your groceries right out to your car. You hand them a check or credit card and then they load everything into your car for you, YOU DON’T HAVE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR! It is totally awesome. You can “shop” from you couch at midnight if you want and just pick everything up the next day!May 23, 2015 – 8:40 amReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - I often wish your mortifying tales weren’t so damn funny! I am sure I have a penis story or two in my old lady memory but I can’t think of any right now or I’d tell you one to make you feel better.
    I hate the grocery store, too. Just in general. I think if I still drank and would be buying wine I might like it better. But only if I could drink it while I was shopping 🙂May 22, 2015 – 6:10 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA Sandy! I hate the grocery store and agree that being mortified is pretty funny. Tucker’s fairly awesome that way.May 22, 2015 – 11:25 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - LOL!!!!! I was out for my walk and I listened to your post read by a robot. I know that’s cheat reading but I only do it when I feel like i know the readers voice very well. The robot did good. I pretty much chuckled from the time the juicy fruit fell out of your pants. The drawings are the icing on the cake, I couldn’t wait to see them.May 22, 2015 – 7:40 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Ok so the whole term “cheat reading?” Love. Also what app do you use for that because I’m missing out and also am honored that you know my “voice” well enough to cheat read me. Glad the robot did good. And thank you!!May 22, 2015 – 11:27 pmReplyCancel

      • Kenya G. Johnson - It’s a setting on the iPhone. Go into Settings/General/Accessibility – enable speak selection and speak screen. You’ll have to play around with the speed. When you’re on a page you want read, emails – anything, swipe from the top with two fingers. It will automatically start reading. You can pause and rewind. I’ve listen to mine sometimes to see if I can “hear” a mistake.May 23, 2015 – 9:50 amReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - LOL! So funny! And so true! There have been many similar times for us, too! Great post! 😀May 22, 2015 – 9:34 amReplyCancel

  • Allie - I adore your son – he is flipping hilarious – and mom, if you ask a dumb question…

    I wanted to do this prompt, I have so many embarrassing grocery store stories – too many. But it’s miracle I can even comment. I am slammed. Off to pick up my middle schooler, after his final 8th grade walk through the halls. It seems like yesterday that he peed in produce department of Giant.May 22, 2015 – 10:47 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - LOL Allie to the “mom, if you ask a dumb question!” HAHAH and true. Sorry that you’re so slammed. You must be getting ready for another epic road trip and if you’re near here, we need to get together!!! LOL to the peeing in produce at Giant. You totally have to write about that when you’re less crazy!May 22, 2015 – 11:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - I’m sorry but that is freaking hystericalMay 22, 2015 – 11:58 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Ha! Obviously, I don’t have boys, but one of my girls did ask me once and very loudly “Mom, what is personal lubricant?” while we were standing in the maxi pad aisle. Now, I do all my grocery shopping online. Seriously, you should try it!May 22, 2015 – 7:54 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - OMG Lisa, that’s almost worse because YIKES how would a person even answer that? And for real? You do all of your shopping online now? Awesome!!!May 22, 2015 – 11:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - OK, what is it with boys and penis fixing? It doesn’t go away, does it? As they age it turns into things like “adjusting” or “scratching” (because, I’m told, all balls itch). Honestly. And somehow they get away with it. But if we ladies tried that in a public venue? Plus, they can pee anywhere. Hmm. Inequity at its best.May 23, 2015 – 12:35 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Lisa, I don’t think it EVER goes away! LOL to “all balls itch.” I have heard the same so it must be true. Gah.May 23, 2015 – 7:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Nina - Love it! Hey it’s like when we fix our wedgies. I’m sure penises get caught in uncomfortable places too lol.May 23, 2015 – 9:16 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Nina, so now I have a vivid mental image of a penis getting caught in an uncomfortable place!May 23, 2015 – 7:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - haha!! Penises must be fixed at all times! Oh man. I do like the grocery store but I like it when I have Cassidy’s credit card. When I have my own, I’m not s fun. When I have his, I pretty much donate money to any cause and I always buy the expensive gelato.
    I swear I’m a generous person – when I have his credit card. Our money, but his credit card.May 23, 2015 – 10:04 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Oh yes penises must be fixed at all times! LOL to it being more fun with your money but Cassidy’s credit card. Must be some subliminal thing!May 23, 2015 – 7:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Tanisha Gomez - Haha this sounds excactly like something my son would say! Once we were in a grocery store and he yelled out,”MOM I FARTED!”…I laughed and said “That’s Ok honey but you don’t need to talk about it”. LOL 🙂May 23, 2015 – 5:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Marcia @ Menopausal Mother - I hate to admit it, but I would have been that person in the next aisle over—giggling!May 23, 2015 – 9:25 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I probably would have been too, Marcia! Especially if it was somebody else’s kid 🙂May 24, 2015 – 4:53 pmReplyCancel

  • karen - I know any trip to the store without AJ is like a vacation. Boys are always fixing their penises….shakes my heads.May 24, 2015 – 9:58 amReplyCancel

  • Mimi - I realized I only posted on FB and not here. DOH! Anyway, have loved this maiden voyage into FTSF. I found your post hilarious! My little dude is very into his penis lately, and I’ve had to have discussions with him before various public outings about avoiding talking about it and what not. Sometimes works better than others. So I could totally relate to this. And the pictures are priceless!!May 24, 2015 – 12:23 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Mimi, I’m so so glad that you’ve loved your first time participating in FTSF! I loved your post and hope you’ll join us often. Also, I know all about having those discussions before going somewhere. It’s kinda funny how much we need to talk about butts and penises before leaving the house!May 24, 2015 – 4:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Jill - Oh…boys and their penises. It starts early and never, ever ends. Sigh.May 24, 2015 – 8:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Well, you know, penises do have to be fixed sometimes.

    I have a scar on the top of my forehead, right at the hairline. It is from a can that fell off the top shelf at the grocery store, as I was reaching up to grab it. My head caught it.May 25, 2015 – 12:37 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Penises do indeed need to be fixed at times. Bras and underpants, too.
      OMG to your scar! I mean, it’s kinda funny now to me but I also picture your sweet adorable head bleeding in the grocery store from a can! Yikes!May 26, 2015 – 6:43 pmReplyCancel

  • don - Well, that doesn’t seem as though it started in line at the store. It was more like in the chips aisle, ma’am! Whatevs.

    Leave us boys alone when we’re trying to fix our penises. Why do you women have to make such a big deal out of it and draw unnecessary attention to yourselves? Craziness.

    Did you get the good chips?May 26, 2015 – 9:09 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Hm. That’s true. It did start in the chip aisle. Oh well.
      I will try to keep your sage wisdom in mind the next time one of you penis-havers has his hand in his pants. Thank you. I guess.
      I ALWAYS get the good chips. I also always think about not getting them and then get them anyway.May 26, 2015 – 6:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Well, from what I understand, this is a very important task in a male’s life and may have to be done multiple times a day. Thank God, Maggie has finally caught on to keeping her hands out of her pants in public. Seriously, remind me to tell you one day what she said in front of Leo’s speech therapist when I asked her to take them out one time.
    I am so jealous of your VA shopping. I can’t get my wine and my groceries in the same store in MD. it is so annoying!May 26, 2015 – 2:58 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - We could never buy wine in the grocery store in Colorado either. Just 3.2 beer and coolers (lower alcohol left over from when you could drink 3.2 when you were 18 years old). Now I’m dying to know what Maggie said in front of Leo’s speech therapist!!May 26, 2015 – 6:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Nina - LOL! That was a clever finishing of that sentence complete with cartoons. Awesome!May 26, 2015 – 6:27 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA thanks, Nina! A bit of a cop-out for last minute posting but sometimes, that’s okay I’ve decided 😉May 26, 2015 – 6:51 pmReplyCancel

  • My Inner Chick - LOLLLLLLLLLLLLL. you and your life crack me up. thank you. xxxxxMay 26, 2015 – 11:38 pmReplyCancel

Being 12 years old gave me the gift of coming home to an empty house. Gone were the days of sitters, and, as a newly minted seventh grader whose school was released earlier than my brothers’ were, I had the house to myself for I dunno – an hour? Two hours? That time was mine, […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Dana - It’s funny how we can be physically alone but feel surrounded by others, or be physically with others but still feel alone. I don’t like feeling that way, and fortunately I don’t very often.

    That guy who called you? CREEPY. I would have peed in my pants.May 7, 2015 – 10:05 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Funny, sad, and weird and also kinda amazing how we’re with others when alone and only with ourselves in a crowd I think… And yeah,that stupid phone call was awful!!!May 8, 2015 – 11:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - That first story? Scary as shit!! I agree that alone is many things in life, but I also believe we can be alone, but not necessarily lonely and vice versa.May 7, 2015 – 10:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - I sit here locked alone locked out my damn blog site because of too many phony log-in attempts. However, I’m now glad it happened. I toddled over here and read this remarkable post. I was chilled at the first example, alarmed at the second, crushed with the third and heartwarmed by the fourth. Nice job, Kristi.May 7, 2015 – 11:38 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - UGH UGH to being locked out of your blog and by now, obviously, as I was gifted with reading your post, you’re back in. Thanks, huge, Kelly.May 9, 2015 – 11:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Nicki - I’ve had that happen to me, in the waves. Scary as hell but then also strangely exhilarating. Like you conquered the water or something!
    Amazing vignettes, beautifully told. And yes… you, we, are not alone. Thank you Kristi. <3May 8, 2015 – 12:53 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - The waves! I can remember it so so clearly and yet, tend to forget the power of conquering the water because yes, it was that, or something like the waters saying “fine, it’s okay, you can go” which is almost the same. Thank YOU. <3May 9, 2015 – 11:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb - Omg that first story was terrifying. Just the kind of nightmare scenario I was always afraid would happen at that age but never did. Jesus. As for the rest no you are not alone. But you are. But not. I get it. XoMay 8, 2015 – 1:00 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I love that you get it and always count on you to (with no pressure of course).May 10, 2015 – 12:14 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Awww love your ending! I was thinking about you all at 9:53ish when your e-mail came through and I was trying to write. I was like well I won’t be 4th today 😉

    Oh that was a creepy phone call. I had a stalker in 9th grade. Still no caller ID. I don’t know if the boy eventually told me his name or how it was found out. He went to another school and was already on probation or something like that. At the time daddy either still worked for the depart of Youth Services or he knew someone and once it was “handled” I never got a call again. But I use to think he was somewhere in the shadows at school watching me. Warren Brown. That was the name. I don’t care anything about respecting his privacy. Creep.

    I also had a much younger beach experience where I felt the sand slipping under my feet and couldn’t seem to gain the momentum to walk out of it. I was waist deep and down shore a little out of sight before I was able to get out. No one had notice. Times have certainly changed.May 8, 2015 – 6:00 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Stupid Warren Brown deserves no privacy any longer and honestly, I have to so much wonder what your Daddy or his friends DID to “handle” it. It seems so easy to feel that they handled it when we are young but can you please ask for me? I’d love to know, especially now that I’m the mom handling!!
      Yikes to that you had the same scary sand face tumble experience in the waves!!! Glad we were both okay!!May 10, 2015 – 12:17 amReplyCancel

  • Bev - Equal parts scary and tugging at your heart. That first story, made my heart speed up a bit reading it. And the one about your son, just breaks my heart. It’s amazing the cruelty we can each have inside of us.May 8, 2015 – 6:13 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I know – the cruelty breaks me at times. But also that the kids don’t get it and that that being where the beauty in life lies, maybe???May 10, 2015 – 12:18 amReplyCancel

  • ivy - that first one was terrifying… something similar happened during my after school time… awful memories… I love that your dad came and called the cops… I had a stalker later in life… argh…. I hate that you have to worry so much for your boy…cuz the world… but love that you do… cuz Moms…May 8, 2015 – 6:31 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - UGH to something similar happening to you – sucky!! And more sucky that you had a stalker more recently. But yeah the world and yeah, moms…May 10, 2015 – 12:19 amReplyCancel

  • christine - The neighborhood in which we lived when I was in middle school reportedly had a peeping tom. In the same (large) neighborhood, a classmate of mine was raped by a stranger while she was babysitting. He broke in through the basement. When we were in 6th grade. Your terrifying story brought all those fears right on back. I hated to be alone, especially at night. Still do, really.

    Funny how being knocked on your ass by a wave helps clarify things. 🙂

    Still sad that Tucker heard such meanness from a kid.May 8, 2015 – 6:54 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - OM your poor 6th grade friend and poor you and how terrifying!! YIKES. I’m so sorry to have triggered the fear for you and 🙁 and HAPPY that you have a lovely house full of awesome people.May 10, 2015 – 12:20 amReplyCancel

  • Allie - Love this Kristi (and you are so primed for your retreat:)). I had chills reading about the phone call. And my heart breaks every time I read about the broken mouth:(. And you are definitely not alone. Your tribe has your back!May 8, 2015 – 9:05 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - UGH (unsaid but you know) and yeah, that phone call SUCKED and some little booger telling Tucker he’s broken in any way… yup. Thank you, my tribe and thank you, YOU!May 10, 2015 – 12:22 amReplyCancel

  • Sarah - terfufying, start to finish.May 8, 2015 – 12:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Terrifying!!! What isn’t my phone correcting my typos?May 8, 2015 – 12:20 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Phones are stupid but also smarter than us and try to see whether we are still humans. I think.May 10, 2015 – 12:28 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Wow! That first one totally creeped me out! That must have been so scary. I love that quote. As a mom who rarely gets alone time, I have a whole new appreciation for solitude, but, really, we aren’t alone ever. Most of the time, I ;m glad for that!May 8, 2015 – 12:43 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - So so scary and yeah, I love solitude too but also knowing I’m never really alone!May 10, 2015 – 12:31 amReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - The phone call must have been terrifying – it was terrifying to read about it. And then it was so uplifting the idea that our ripples effect people even when we’re alone!May 8, 2015 – 3:32 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Elizabeth – the phone call WAS terrifying. I talked to my dad on the phone tonight and he’d forgotten about it but remembered after reading it and he agreed.May 10, 2015 – 10:15 pmReplyCancel

  • A.J. Goode - I like the way you said that — alone, but not really. When I’m alone in the house because the kids are at school, it’s one thing. When I’m alone because it’s their week with their dad, it’s something completely different.

    And I LOVE the fact that being part of this keeps you from being completely alone.This is a great group to be a part of!May 8, 2015 – 6:12 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I so know what you mean about the different degrees of alone – when the kids are at school – it’s more fine, somehow. Thank you for being a part of this group!May 10, 2015 – 10:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Marcia @ Menopausal Mother - Another wonderful post with a very sweet ending. I have to admit though, I got chills reading the first part. Did you ever find out who the guy on the phone was?May 8, 2015 – 11:56 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - We never did find out who the guy was and thank you! Happy Mother’s Day!May 10, 2015 – 10:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Callie Feyen - Kristi, I just love how this is constructed. I love the layers (or, maybe I should write ripples), and how each instance of your being alone illuminated an aspect of how you the strength that was growing inside of you. Really, great piece.May 9, 2015 – 9:02 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thanks, Callie! I love the way you phrase it – that you make it sound better than it is about the strength… and Happy Happy Mother’s Day!May 10, 2015 – 10:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - You’re not alone. I’d even eat a burger with egg on it for you.
    That first story is terrifying!! The second one = less so. I like that.
    The third one is terrifying too. I’d like to personally break the mouth of any kid who gives Tucker a hard time.
    Broken mouth, my foot.May 9, 2015 – 8:06 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - You’d eat a burger with egg on it for me? Holy cow wow. I’m not even sure I’d eat one these days for me so thanks 🙂 LOL and yeah, the first was totally terrifying. And feel free to get your Jersey butt down here and protect my kiddo (or photograph him because he is beautiful). xoMay 10, 2015 – 10:53 pmReplyCancel

  • My Inner Chick - OMgosh,

    the first story reminds me of that CREEPY movie when that guy calls the babysitter asking, “Have you checked the children?”

    Everything you write captures my heart & soul, darling. xxMay 10, 2015 – 11:05 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - OMG I don’t know that movie but yowza. Oh!! Wait. Scream right? Argh!!!
      And back at you to the heart and soul you. xxooMay 10, 2015 – 10:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Beth Siebert - You are changing the world with each post, every shared thought and your generosity. The love you have for your son is so great that it is slowly changing the world one reader at a time.

    Trust in this. Your words are ripples and just because we can not see how far they go out and how they change the surface immediately does not mean it is not occurring. Kindergarteners, sadky so, do not read your blog.

    I wonder if Tucker could write how it feels when other people criticism him and read it to his class.

    You build and. Relate empathy with loving generous words. You are changing the world.May 10, 2015 – 10:52 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - You are so kind and generous and I thank you so so much for your sweet words!! xoxo also? YOU are changing the world – raising awareness and hope and doing the best of the good stuff, always.May 10, 2015 – 11:01 pmReplyCancel

      • Beth Siebert - You are leading the pack sweetie. Never forget that! I am just following in your foot steps on your forum no less.

        Happy Mother’s Day and we are never alone either because we have you! Thank you!!!May 10, 2015 – 11:27 pmReplyCancel

        • Kristi Campbell - XO XO thank you! Not leading. Just in. Grateful for people like you!May 12, 2015 – 10:54 pmReplyCancel

          • Beth Siebert - You are a great advocate. Thank goodness you are in… A little less hard with you on our side. Thank you.May 12, 2015 – 11:07 pm

  • Roshni - Oh gosh! That first story was so scary! What a creep!!
    I’m so glad that things worked out so well for you all with regard to the bullying! So nice to see that the school went into action so swiftly!May 11, 2015 – 6:07 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Roshni!! And yeah, what a creep to the first story!!! Also me, too, when it comes to the bullying.May 12, 2015 – 10:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Eli@coachdaddy - I can’t even pick out my favorite part of this post, but perhaps it’s the way you put us right there with you in every instance, the fear, the recognition, the anger, the despair, even. I do wish this world was a beautiful enough place for a soul like yours. I’m glad you’re in it with us, all the same.May 12, 2015 – 10:04 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw, Eli! I’m so glad that I’m in this world with YOU. You make it a better place, for real. Thank you.May 12, 2015 – 10:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Lauren - Wow, Kristi. Your post had be at the edge of my chair, and temporarily ignoring my not-so-sleeping little ones yelling for another “check.” It was not at all what I expected to find. Thank you.May 13, 2015 – 10:31 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thank you so much Lauren. For reading, for commenting, for sharing through another “check,” another glass of water another…May 15, 2015 – 1:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Jolene @ Different Dream for My Child - This is an excellent look at both sides of being alone. But I still wish the man who called you hadn’t done it. Thanks for adding this to DifferentDream.com!May 15, 2015 – 6:03 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thank you Jolene! I wish the man who called me hadn’t done it either. Funny though, until thinking about the prompt of being alone, I really hadn’t thought of it in years. Still though… thank you for Different Dream!May 15, 2015 – 9:19 pmReplyCancel

  • Kim - Oh – that phone call sounds terrifying!!!
    I feel alone a lot – blogging has been one of the best things ever. Sadly, I’m blogging less and less often these days and feel less connected.May 16, 2015 – 10:53 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - So sorry to hear you’re blogging less although I get it and haven’t blogged in almost two weeks and feel guilty but also whatever about it… xoxo here’s to feeling more connected!!May 18, 2015 – 11:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristina - I love this. I’ve been feeling very alone in motherhood lately and I think this captures those feelings of excitement, joy, and fear of being alone.May 19, 2015 – 1:19 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’m so sorry to read that you’re feeling alone in motherhood these days, Kristina. That’s so hard, and I’ve been there way too often. Sending hugs and love your way.May 21, 2015 – 6:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Honey - Wow. I can’t even imagine how scary that phone call was when you were 12. Thank goodness everything turned out ok. Very true we are never alone!May 20, 2015 – 7:55 amReplyCancel

  • Tarana Khan - I can imagine how that phone call must have shaken you inside. And yes, when your child face something like that, it can make you feel so helpless and alone.May 21, 2015 – 3:00 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - The phone call was really scary Tarana! And yeah, the whole kids being mean stuff makes me feel so alone and worried.May 21, 2015 – 6:10 pmReplyCancel

  • meredith - Love this! It was both chilling and comforting at the same time! You always wrote in a way that makes me think.May 21, 2015 – 6:44 pmReplyCancel

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