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

Here in the US, it’s Father’s Day this weekend. I won’t be able to tell my dad how much he means to me on Sunday, so, I thought I’d make an attempt to do so, here. Dear Perekums, You’ve always believed in me, Dad. Even when, and especially when, I didn’t believe in myself. I […]

View full post »

by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
email a friend

  • Janine Huldie - Ok, the blow job question had to be classic and I think my dad might have had a coronary if I asked that of him as a kid, but still your dad definitely rocks for that and so much more. And I got to ask, what the hell kind of teacher asks a kid about being adopted. I taught and never once would have I ever imagined asking about something like this or bringing this kind of thing up to one of my own students. That teacher sounded like a horror show to me and good for your dad getting justice. Happy Father’s Day to your Dad now 🙂June 12, 2014 – 10:08 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA to your dad having a coronary if you’d have asked him about blow jobs, Janine! And I know. That teacher SUCKED. So mean. Happy Father’s Day to your dad too (and Kevin!) this weekend, my friend.June 13, 2014 – 5:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - That was beautiful…my favorite line was ” you un-abandoned us.” It sounds as if your dad is far away now, but if or when he reads this, I’m sure he will feel so proud of you for expressing how you feel about him so eloquently. You’re lucky to have a dad like him and he’s equally lucky to have a daughter like you. 🙂June 12, 2014 – 10:16 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thanks, Emily! Yeah, my dad is in Colorado and we’re not. We’ll get to see him in August though so that’ll be good.June 13, 2014 – 5:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Linda Atwell - Sweet! You are both lucky!June 12, 2014 – 10:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Courtney - Kristi, this was so beautifully written. Your dad kicked ass! I love the things you wrote, and the honesty of it all. I agree, I wish we could have had more time to actually talk at BlogU instead of smiles in passing. I look up to you and your resilience.June 12, 2014 – 10:25 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thank you Courtney, and I agree that he kicks ass!! Me too, to BlogU. Sigh. Sad that it’s already over. And wow – thank you. Your resilience is amazing, friend. You are strong and fabulous. I’ll be thinking about you this weekend and sending thoughts of peace to your family.June 13, 2014 – 5:37 pmReplyCancel

  • Jean - Kristi- what an awesome father you have. My favorite line: You stepped up, and painted hard-to-find optimism with a broom, because you couldn’t find a fucking paintbrush.June 12, 2014 – 10:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Allie - Oh Momma – I loved this and your dad and I have so many, many questions. Get Ready! Cant wait to talk face to face and hear your story. AND I loved the pictures@!June 12, 2014 – 11:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Allie! Happy to answer all of your questions and can’t wait to meet you in person! I hope your trip is going fabulously well.June 13, 2014 – 5:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - A complete package of perfection. What a guy. He must be so, so proud of you.June 13, 2014 – 12:14 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - I remember some of the bits of stories in this one. LOL! I love how he stepped up and un-abandoned you and your brothers. I can’t imagine that my dad would have been able to have any of those conversations let alone suggest I get on birth control. That was a secret between me and mom. Love how he has been there for you through so much and the picture with Tucker and the cigar – too cute! I love seeing pictures of grandfathers 😉 They always look so proud.June 13, 2014 – 7:10 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kenya,
      Honestly, he had to step up a lot when he and my mom were divorced. I think having a daughter was already hard so he just decided to do things like buy tampons and stuff because he had to maybe… and I love the grandfather photos too!!June 13, 2014 – 5:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Tarana - Thank you, Kristi, for sharing this story about your awesome Dad! My Dad also stood by me all the time, so I could relate to this.June 13, 2014 – 7:33 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Here’s to dads who stand by their daughters, Tarana. It’s big stuff and I’m sure much harder at times than it sounds. And thank you!June 13, 2014 – 5:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Alison - Such a sweet, sweet, beautiful and heartwarming letter, Kristi.June 13, 2014 – 8:31 amReplyCancel

  • Joy @ icansaymama - Wow Kristi, your dad must be an awesome father and man! I love you love letter to him! Happy Father’s Day, Kristi’s dad, and thank you for always being there for her, shaping her into the aweseom person she is today!June 13, 2014 – 8:34 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Tears. The world needs more dads like that!June 13, 2014 – 8:44 amReplyCancel

  • karen - what a great dad and a wonderful letter to him. Grabbing yet another tissue..sniffles…your dad seems like a great man…more sniffles…June 13, 2014 – 10:28 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - He’s really a great guy, Karen, and thank you so much. Sorry for the sniffles, though!June 13, 2014 – 5:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Natalie D - You are one lucky lady. What an amazing man.June 13, 2014 – 10:51 amReplyCancel

  • Jhanis - Beautiful Kristi! He sounds like an awesome person. So that’s what it’s like to have a dad who have your back. Thanks for the glimpse. 🙂June 13, 2014 – 11:00 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sorry that you don’t know what it’s like to have a dad who has your back though, Jhanis 🙁
      And thank you.June 13, 2014 – 6:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Michelle AKA Crumpets and Bollocks - Your dad sounds like one amazing man. They are too few and far between anymore.

    And you learned about a blow job in 3rd grade? When I was that age, I thought that sex meant peeing on each other, like that’s where I was with it. I did have the blow job talk with my sister in the car. She asked me about it when she was 15, and I basically told her how to give a proper one and then told her not to do it because it’s not lady like. Then I wonder why she grew up so messed up. SMH at myself.June 13, 2014 – 11:16 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHAH to sex meaning peeing on each other and to telling your sister how to give a blow job. Ouch. (still chuckling)
      And yeah, a boy named Brandon told me what it was in 3rd grade. No clue where he learned it!June 13, 2014 – 6:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate (Shakespeare's Mom) - What a truly beautiful post for your dad. It sounds like the two of you make quite a pair 🙂

    P.S. I can’t believe your teacher!! WTF?June 13, 2014 – 11:48 amReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - This is so beautiful! I am crying (you brought a lot of us to tears with this one!). What a great father and what great memories. Thank you for sharing them with us.June 13, 2014 – 1:22 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - I remember that blow job story – that alone makes your dad a rock star. But to see You, and your Good – that is what a parent should do. Your dad was obviously a good role model because that is exactly what you are doing with Tucker. I imagine your dad is very proud.June 13, 2014 – 4:52 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - My poor dad, Dana, really. But yeah, he has been an amazing role model and thank you so much. I hope he’s proud!June 13, 2014 – 6:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - OMG You just trumped the siblings as favorite child for the weekend. This is freaking awesome. Such a wonderful gift to your dad. Better than Superbowl tickets, you show him you are grateful for him. That this Father’s day is about you being a mom because he was a rock star dad. Who totally gets bonus points for not driving off the road.June 13, 2014 – 8:11 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kerri,
      Always hope to trump my siblings for affection so wha hooo if this worked a little! And he might disagree about the superbowl tickets but thank you so much! Huge bonus points for not driving off the road. Huge.June 14, 2014 – 9:27 amReplyCancel

  • Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life - What an awesome letter. Absolutely and positively beyond amazing. I think I would have driven off the road if my 8 year old was asking those questions…holy cow. That was hilarious!June 13, 2014 – 8:51 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I hope my now 4-yo asks his dad about BJs, Michelle! And thank you so much!!June 14, 2014 – 9:28 amReplyCancel

  • Marcia @ Menopausal Mother - Awwww Kristi, your father sounds AMAZING! I can feel the love in your words. You two are so lucky to have each other!!!June 13, 2014 – 10:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - Crap. This was freaking amazing and so I am crying… because it was THAT amazing. Oh how I love your dad. I love him sooo bad. Why? Because he believed in you. He spoke in your defense. He showed up over and over again for you. He gave you hope and love and faith in yourself. Oh my gosh how I love him. These stories?

    Powerful testimony to the power of a dad.

    Still crying.

    I love your dad.

    So much.

    And.

    I really really love you.June 14, 2014 – 1:25 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw Chris, thank you so much, friend. I love you, too! And yeah, my dad is awesome for sticking up for me and for showing up over and over and over again…June 14, 2014 – 9:30 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - I love him and I don’t even know him!
    The blowjob story is a favorite.
    The Star Wars story is making me cry right now. That’s the kind of parent I want to be.June 14, 2014 – 7:46 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - The Star Wars story is awesome and I hope to be that type of parent, too, Tamara! Happy Father’s Day to your dad and Cassidy this weekend!June 14, 2014 – 9:31 amReplyCancel

  • Jamie Miles - What a wonderful real relationship you have. It’s fine line to walk — balancing between being a parent and guiding children and being understanding and letting us fall and make mistakes. And always being there with unconditional love and an affirming nod that things will work out. I confess to falling short of that standard some days. Sounds like your father is a loving compassionate man — who did the best that he could. I hope my children feel that way about me some day. I’m not so sure.June 14, 2014 – 9:08 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Jamie,
      I think we all fall short of that standard some days and are just doing the best we can. I’m sure that your children will feel that way about you because you’re awesome. And I think they know (I hope so anyway) that we’re winging this parenting game most of the time. I hope you have an amazing weekend!June 14, 2014 – 9:38 amReplyCancel

  • Mike - This has me bawling crying! I lost my Dad several years ago to Parkinson’s. This will be the first Father’s Day that I won’t have my step father, John, either (cancer).

    You said it…and channeling your blog to both of my Dad’s above…

    “…for forgiving me every single time I fucked up.”

    I turned in all of those fuck ups into a huge success. I love you and miss you more than you can possibly know.

    Happy Father’s Day to your Dad, Kristi! 🙂June 14, 2014 – 6:48 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw Mike. I’m so so sorry for the loss of your dad and step father. That’s so unbelievably hard and here’s to our dads forgiving us for our fuckups. Happy Father’s Day to you, my fabulous friend. I hope you and PDawg had some amazing time in the sun today.June 15, 2014 – 7:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Katia - Hard to write something eloquent after reading this. “You have “unabandoned us”. Wow. So moving. Beautiful beautiful tribute, Kristi. What a man and he should be so proud of his daughter.June 14, 2014 – 8:34 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Katia, I so very much appreciate your comment and friendship. And you write eloquently all the time you. All the time.June 15, 2014 – 7:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Christina Morley - I can see by the photos that he was and is a very proud dad. What kind of teacher doesn’t think an adopted child can succeed? That kind of teacher shouldn’t be working with kids! I’m glad your dad was always there for you. Enjoy today with your dad!June 15, 2014 – 12:32 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Christina, I know to the teacher, right? What a jerk! And thanks so much – I think he is a proud dad. I hope so anyway.June 15, 2014 – 7:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Brittnei - Oh! This is a tear jerker. How awesome is it that your Dad was there for you through all of this! He seems like he truly tried to be the best Dad ever and succeeded at it in your life. I’m so sorry that he’s no longer here for you to be able to tell him how much he means to you.June 15, 2014 – 9:57 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Brittnei, and yeah, it was very awesome that he was there for me all these years. He’s still with us – just lives far away. Hope your weekend’s been wonderful.June 15, 2014 – 7:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Gary Sidley - A magnificent tribute to your father; he should be proud to have you as his daughter and, based on your description of him over the years, I’m sure he is.June 15, 2014 – 10:52 amReplyCancel

  • Brian Sorrell - What a heartfelt and perfect set of memories to celebrate a Dad! You had me laughing and awwwww-ing the whole time. Nicely done.June 15, 2014 – 5:22 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Awww to the laughing and awwwing – thank you huge for reading. And commenting.June 15, 2014 – 10:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Lana - Such a beautiful tribute to your dad. One of the best I’ve read. Have a great day!June 15, 2014 – 7:01 pmReplyCancel

  • zoe - Yknow I read this earlier and I think I never got back to comment … stupid android freezes up… anyhow… if I did or didnt… I will ask again as I thought I asked before but probably only did in my head…Do you think you could get your dad to adopt me? You know me… raised by wolves…
    I love this relationship story and now knowing you better, am not surprised in the least by how lovely and real it is!June 16, 2014 – 1:54 amReplyCancel

  • Seana Turner - Sounds like your Dad blessed you in an amazing way. Can’t believe that school teacher making you feel like a freak for being adopted – really? Reminds me that we all need at someone who loves us unconditionally and is always there for us.June 16, 2014 – 7:59 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I can’t believe that school teacher, either, Seana! What a jerk she was. Really. And yeah, I got lucky with my dad for sure.June 16, 2014 – 8:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - “Un-abandoned” was my favorite part. It sounds like your dad undid harm more than once. Good for him for taking up the adoption inquisition issue with your teacher. Sometimes classroom projects are insensitive to adoptees (especially older adoptees), i.e., “Bring in a baby photo,” but to have a teacher grill a student on adoption status (and imply that adoptees are less-than), crosses the line from insensitive to downright mean.June 16, 2014 – 12:12 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks so much, Kristi! He definitely undid harm (and what a great way to phrase it). That teacher sucked. I hadn’t thought about the “bring in a baby photo” one – thanks for the reminder of that, too, and for your sweet comment.June 16, 2014 – 8:02 pmReplyCancel

  • K - AMAZING, Kristi. I feel so ridiculous because after I read your posts, I often find myself completely lost for words. Your dad sounds like an incredible person, and you are so blessed to have each other! Hope you and your family had an awesome Father’s Day!June 16, 2014 – 1:34 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw Kerry thank you huge, friend. My dad is really awesome and supportive. I hope you had a great Father’s Day with your dad! (or maybe you’re still at school???) xoxoxJune 16, 2014 – 8:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy Christi - That is amazing. I can’t even be made you made me cry again :’)
    Thank the universe that your dad had the strength to step up and be BOTH. And be fun. Amazing.June 16, 2014 – 5:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - Your dad sounds like an incredible man. It explains a lot about the woman you are today and that’s a good thing, my friend. Take it as the compliment it is 😉 That said, let the record show I will never be able to forget the blow job portion of this post..not ever!June 17, 2014 – 9:25 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’ll try to, Sandy! Thank you and yeah, I’ll never forget the blow job part of it either. 🙂June 17, 2014 – 11:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie - Kristi – this was an amazing post. Oh my goodness, I didn’t want it to end. It makes me think how lucky and blessed you are to have a dad you love so much and who obviously loves you too.

    Also, how did you hear about blow jobs at 8????? I think I was in 9th grade. That is funny and he must have been both shocked that you asked and proud that you were comfortable enough to. Funny stuff for sure.June 17, 2014 – 10:49 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Stephanie!!! Thank you~ my dad is amazing, and the way I heard about BJs at 8yo was from a dumb boy in my class. Poor dad. For real.June 17, 2014 – 11:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Ginny Marie - This letter to your dad is amazing. And if my daughter, who is in 3rd grade, mentioned blowjobs to me, I would definitely have driven off the road!June 19, 2014 – 10:00 amReplyCancel

It’s been more than a year since I started the Our Land Series and I have to say that I’m honored and amazed at the incredible perspectives and stories you’ve all shared with me here. I appreciate each viewpoint and love that we, together, are helping to raise awareness and empathy for special needs, autism, body […]

View full post »

by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
email a friend

  • jillsmo - Love this!!! <3April 24, 2013 – 11:32 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi - I love it, too. When I asked Kerry to guest post, I knew it would be amazing. This is even more than amazing though. This is perfect.
      Oh and love YOU!April 24, 2013 – 11:39 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - I so want to live in her world, too. Beautiful post and wow truly left speechless and quite in awe. You are right, she is amazing!! 🙂April 24, 2013 – 11:48 amReplyCancel

  • Cheairs - I found your blog through My Whac A Mole Life. Loved, loved and loved this post. I will be clicking on over to her blog!April 24, 2013 – 12:06 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Cheairs,
      I’m so glad you’re here and that you’ll be visiting Kerry’s blog. She’s wonderful.April 24, 2013 – 12:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Keri - I love K’s writing and this was a terrific FIRST of MANY in the series. Simply beautifulApril 24, 2013 – 12:26 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Kerri,
      I love her writing too! And yes, one of MANY – including yours, I hope!April 24, 2013 – 12:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Jennifer - Beautiful!!April 24, 2013 – 2:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy - Wow, what a beautiful post! Will definitely be checking out her blog.

    And it will be hard to keep up with that level of writing! 😉April 24, 2013 – 2:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Joy,
      I know! She’s setting the bar high, making the rest of Finding Ninee look bad. Oh well. Being able to read this is worth it.April 24, 2013 – 2:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy - I was not referring to Finding Ninee but to me writing another guest post on the series! 😉April 24, 2013 – 2:58 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Joy,
      Your guest post will be fabulous! 😀April 24, 2013 – 3:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Melissa@Home on Deranged - Part of me wants to punch you both for making me cry!! 🙂
    But the bigger – hopefully better – part of me wants to give you a hug, Kerry, for being this mature and this inclusive of all that is “different.” Because the reality is we are all different, even though some of us are better at hiding it. You have inspired me. And the fact that you were willing to share it with us makes it that much more powerful.April 24, 2013 – 3:26 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Melissa,
      Such a great point that we are all different. A person doesn’t have to have an official “disability” to be laughed at, made to feel badly, to be bullied…everybody (well all the nice people anyway) deserves to live in a world without prejudice – one full of empathy and wonder.April 24, 2013 – 6:51 pmReplyCancel

  • MJM - Awesome…amazing piece…and I can honestly say I agree with you…she is a force to be reckoned with.

    Thanks for sharing.April 24, 2013 – 3:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for real. - Kristi- this idea is amazing and I am so excited for your series. And as far as thanking me, pfftt, as if I’m the first person to have a series! This one is going to be brilliant. (I’m starting a post tonight after my music therapy group…) And Kerri- wow. What a gifted, beautiful soul, with amazing compassion and insight. Can’t wait to see more of her work. Perfect start to a new series, friend. Nice work. xoApril 24, 2013 – 5:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Stephanie,
      I’m really excited too. I love this post and I love your series right back. And yes, Kerry is AWESOME.April 24, 2013 – 6:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Amazing! Kerry’s final quote blew me away – The broken people in our world are the ones who are unable to see the person behind the disability. Looking forward to this series, Kristi – great idea!April 24, 2013 – 5:48 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Dana,
      I love that line, too. In fact, I almost put it in bold but in the end didn’t change a single thing from what she sent me. Thanks Dana!April 24, 2013 – 6:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I LOVE this new series and I absolutely agree that Kerry sounds like one amazing person! That story of the sobbing girl in the bathroom really hit home…I’m still hoping that someone will do the same for my son, who I know needs that helping hand from time to time. My middle son once told me about a boy at school who always ate lunch alone and who told my son that he has trouble with “social stuff.” My son brought him over to his lunch table and introduced him to a whole bunch of other kids and he never ate alone again. I was so proud of my son for doing that and I know he is particularly sensitive to disabilities because of his brother, but I also hope that his attitude is a model for other kids to do the same. Looking forward to following this series!April 24, 2013 – 7:30 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Wow, that’s wonderful that your son reached out to a boy at school who was eating alone and even more that he never ate alone again. Thank you for sharing. Also? I hope that you’ll do more than follow the series – I hope you’ll want to participate when you have time!April 24, 2013 – 8:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - That was beautiful! She is definitely gifted! Thank you for introducing her to us 🙂

    JessicaApril 24, 2013 – 9:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Tatum - I don’t think there is a post of Kerry’s that I haven’t shared. She is honest about the reality and an example of hope.April 24, 2013 – 9:36 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - She is amazing! Thank you for commenting here, too. You’re so right that she is an example of hope.April 24, 2013 – 10:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - What a wonderful message, so beautifully written. We need to take care of each other. I love this idea for your series. I can’t wait to read more. 🙂April 24, 2013 – 9:42 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Thanks, Jessica.
      I can’t wait to read more, too…
      Feel free to contribute. All of you – please. The world needs more empathy and wonder. And Kerry. And YOU.April 24, 2013 – 10:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Alicia D - I just want to give her a huge HUG right now!!! LOVE this girl! I so wish there were more people like her out there. 🙂April 24, 2013 – 11:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Diana @ NannyToMommy - I can’t believe someone would say that. Breaks my heart. I would love to guest post! But I can’t find the form. :/April 25, 2013 – 10:47 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Diana,
      If you click the “Contact” button (bottom of this post, or home page) it should pull up a box at the top where one option is to “Just send me a note.” That will send me an email and is the best way to submit a guest post. I look forward to you doing so!
      And thank you.April 26, 2013 – 7:22 amReplyCancel

  • Mirela - She is indeed a wonderful person with a beautiful soul. Too bad not many persons feel and think the way she does. I also used to work with special children and it really opened my eyes. Kerry if you ever read this, please listen to Diary of dreams- Colorblind and VNV nation-illusion.April 25, 2013 – 11:44 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Mirela,
      How wonderful that you used to work with special children! And yes, Kerry does have a beautiful soul. I like to think that more of us agree with her than don’t. Thanks for commenting and for the song recommendation.April 26, 2013 – 7:24 amReplyCancel

  • Rachel - The story of the girl in the bathroom is heartbreaking. I’m glad that the heartache ended. I’m so embarrassed for my profession that the teacher of kids with special needs responded that way. Discrimination from people who are on the outside is euphemistically called ignorance. I won’t sully your blog with the name I would use to call people who should know better.

    GREAT SERIES, KRISTI!April 25, 2013 – 3:37 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Rachel,
      I’m glad the girl in the bathroom’s heartache ended as well. More of us should be inspired to reach out and see the people behind what looks obvious.
      And yes – discrimination is ignorance!April 26, 2013 – 7:25 amReplyCancel

  • Shay - Tears again over here. What beautiful, beautiful writing. I’m headed over to follow her right now!April 25, 2013 – 10:47 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Shay,
      You’ll love what you find over there! And don’t worry – we got it that you were touched (tears).April 26, 2013 – 7:26 amReplyCancel

  • Shay - And how could I forget to mention how touching and true the message was, as well?! But I think that was clear from my mention of tears. 🙂April 25, 2013 – 10:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Jen - Oh I love this sooooo much! Such a brilliant idea Kristi. And Kerry such an amazing story. I admire your strength more than you could know. I worry so much about my son. I think he is built more of the stuff that you are, but I on the other hand would have been the girl eating her lunch in the bathroom. You are such an inspiration. Thank you Kristi for hooking us up!April 26, 2013 – 12:17 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa Newlin - Oh my, this is a well-written and tear-jerking post! What amazing insight from someone so young. I can only hope we have more people like Kerry in this world. I can also only hope we have people like Kerry teaching “the special kids.”

    This post hurts my heart but mends it at the same time, as I know there are good people in the world who really do care about “the broken people,” when in actuality, we’re all broken.

    Great post!April 26, 2013 – 12:49 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Lisa,
      We are all broken indeed. And I agree that my son (and all of our children) would be very lucky to have Kerry working with them!April 26, 2013 – 8:00 amReplyCancel

  • Naomi - Indeed…people can be very judgmental. I am glad to find people that still think like this. It was very nice of you to help that poor girl; they need to know they are not the ones with problems. The ones with problems are actually the ones who bully and discriminate.April 26, 2013 – 4:24 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Naomi,
      You’re so right that the people with problems are the ones who bully and discriminate.
      Thanks for commenting!April 26, 2013 – 8:01 amReplyCancel

  • thesocialbutterflymom - I love that Kerry points out what WE can learn from people with disabilities. I’m sure that thought doesn’t occur to most.April 26, 2013 – 7:02 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Social Butterfly Mom,
      I hope a million kazillion people read her words and realize how right she is.April 26, 2013 – 8:01 amReplyCancel

  • K - Thank you everyone for all of the amazingly kind comments! I am completely blown away by the response! Thank you, Kristi, too, for being so awesome and granting me the honor of guest posting on your blog! I can’t wait to read the rest of the posts in this series. Here’s to a world with more empathy and wonder!April 26, 2013 – 8:44 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi - Yay to a world with more empathy and wonder. And thank YOU Kerry. You rock.April 27, 2013 – 4:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Jamie@SouthMainMuse - What a beautiful inspiring post. And her observation about who is truly broken is spot on.April 28, 2013 – 3:48 pmReplyCancel

  • The Sadder But Wiser Girl - The world needs more Kerrys.May 8, 2013 – 1:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I loved reading this a second time – Kerry is truly a gift to the world and I hope she continues to spread her caring thoughts everywhere!June 11, 2014 – 12:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Wow, I can’t believe it’s been more than a year since OL started! Enjoyed the re-read 😉June 11, 2014 – 1:04 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I can’t believe it’s been more than a year either Kenya! Time flies I guess and thank you so much for coming back to read it a second time.June 12, 2014 – 9:23 amReplyCancel

  • R - Wow, what a beautiful peace…thank you for re-posting for us newer subscribers. I didn’t know about this series and am so moved by it…June 11, 2014 – 1:09 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thank you so much for reading it, R, and I’m glad that you found the Our Land series! I appreciate it.June 12, 2014 – 9:24 amReplyCancel

  • Melissa Senecal - Wow!! Wonderful piece!! I’m going to have to check out the Our Land series!! Such a great idea and a wonderful platform to raise awareness!!June 11, 2014 – 1:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Melissa! I hope you will check out the series – everybody’s story has been so wonderful for me to share. Here’s to awareness and empathy!June 12, 2014 – 9:25 amReplyCancel

  • Jhanis - Praying for more Kerries in the world! God knows we need more people with kinder hearts and beautiful souls.June 11, 2014 – 6:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Katia - As I was reading this I ctrl c’d a sentence that I wanted to paste into my comment and gush over but then I saw another one. And another. Like this one: “Children with speech impediments teach the world to slow down and listen”. This reminded me of a sentence I read not too long ago in Viktor Frankl’s book “Man in Search of Meaning”. Frankl is a psychiatrist who survived the holocaust and records some of his experiences in this book. At one point he comes to the conclusion that asking “what is life trying to tell us” is futile. Instead WE should view ourselves as the answers. These kids sound like answers to me.

    This post really resonated with me. I know a child with Asperger’s and I was watching him struggle with the world and himself yesterday and I stood helpless watching him. We should all continue learning about each other’s challenges. Empathy is a great place to begin. Beautiful post.June 11, 2014 – 7:55 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw Katia,
      I love your comment. And I’ll have to check out “Man in Search of Meaning” because I love the concept that we should view ourselves as the answers to what life is trying to tell us. Thank you so much for your insightful comment and your support. Adore you.June 12, 2014 – 9:50 amReplyCancel

  • Mike - OMG this is so eerie that you shared her story, Kristi! Just last week Asperger’s was brought up in a meeting I was a part of regarding an individual. It blew me away as to what I learned and that nobody knew about. Our Land continues to open doors to all of us becoming more educated and then hopefully many more doors follow suit with being opened! This was fantastic! I loved this part the best, “I want to live in a world where every individual, regardless of disabilities, is seen as a person with endless abilities and endless potential.” Amen! 🙂June 12, 2014 – 2:55 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Mike,
      Wow – what great timing! That’s awesome that people are talking more about Asperger’s and autism. So many people have the absolutely wrongest assumptions about it all. Thanks so much and yeah, I loved that sentence about people having endless abilities as well.June 12, 2014 – 9:55 amReplyCancel

  • zoe - AWESOME! I love this… I was just sitting around all day with a bad case of the poor meeees and I decided to come here. Coincidence? Maybe … but I know better… thanks! ZJune 12, 2014 – 7:30 pmReplyCancel

  • K - Kristi…thank you so much for posting this again…TOTALLY made my day!!! And I really appreciate all of the kind comments…really put a smile on my face. I’m glad that you guys understand where I’m coming from. (: I lovelovelove Our Land and will always be grateful that I was given the privilege of being a part of it!June 12, 2014 – 10:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - Completely and totally awesome.June 13, 2014 – 3:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Yvonne - I am just going through some of the Our Land posts that I missed before, and you are right. Kerry has a lot to teach us. And Kerry is right that its not speech delays, autism, deafness or any other special need that breaks people, but not being able to see behind the disability. I’d only add it’s not being able to see beyond any surface appearance.August 10, 2014 – 6:22 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Great addition – because yes. Seeing behind surface appearance is key!! Thanks, Yvonne!August 10, 2014 – 12:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Mardra - Happy that your Kerry is one who is making “Our Land” a real possibility instead of only a wistful dream.
    *Hope*September 8, 2014 – 1:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Eva - I LOVE this part the best:

    “The broken people in our world aren’t the ones with speech delays. They aren’t the ones who walk with a limp or use a wheelchair. They aren’t the ones who are deaf, autistic, or visually impaired. They aren’t the ones who struggle with math, reading, writing, or science.

    The broken people in our world are the ones who are unable to see the person behind the disability.”

    Truer words have never been spoken. Thank you for sharing this.

    EvaDecember 28, 2014 – 11:47 amReplyCancel

In just a few hours, I’m going to BlogU. I’m catching up on some work this morning, haven’t packed, haven’t showered, and want to finish this post before leaving, but I’m excited. I think it’s going to be a lot of fun. Getting to meet blog friends in person and see the few I’ve already […]

View full post »

by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
email a friend

  • Dana - Perfect thing to read while packing. Razor, check! I’m nervous too but I’m so glad you will be there. I can vouch for your in person awesomeness, and we can eat cookies and drink beer together.June 6, 2014 – 11:41 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Razor! Crap, I need to pack! And shower! YAY for cookies and beer. And for you. I’m glad you’re going to be there, too!June 6, 2014 – 12:14 pmReplyCancel

    • Don - Cookies and beer! I know who I’d be hanging out with all weekend!June 6, 2014 – 2:08 pmReplyCancel

      • Kristi Campbell - You should have come, Don. You could have brought some more beer because I think we may have run out.June 9, 2014 – 9:54 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Hilarious! Can’t wait to hear the report back and photos! Have fun!June 6, 2014 – 11:43 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’ll be sure to take tons of photos, Kenya! (note to self, pack camera)
      Thanks much!June 6, 2014 – 12:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - Enjoy! Such a fun thing to look forward to. Kate shaving in the local McD’s. Perhaps you could pick up some shaving cream as well? Oh and enjoy that bloggy U thing too! Hope you have the best time ever.June 6, 2014 – 11:52 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kelly,
      Thanks! I think it’ll be fun. haha to Kate shaving at the McD! Better than in my car though, huh? 😉June 6, 2014 – 12:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Natalie D - That’s EXACTLY how I felt going to BlogHer last year. And I’m jealous, you’re driving with Kate. Kate’s the best. But so are you. I’m jealous of both of you.
    Have fun!!June 6, 2014 – 11:59 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Natalie, are you going to BlogHer this year? I am and would love to meet you!!!
      And yay, Kate! Sorry you won’t be at BlogU though 🙁June 6, 2014 – 12:22 pmReplyCancel

  • zoe - She-devil is SUCH an ignorant slut!!! Have a blast!!!June 6, 2014 – 12:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I’m sooo envious of you and Kate and the rest who will be at Blog U this weekend…I know I’d be nervous and think those same thoughts, but that once I got there I know I’d have so much fun with all of you. How could I NOT have fun with people who type the texts above? Anyway, can’t wait to hear about it (I hope you’ll post on it). Oh and my favorite pic above is the group one with the one person thinking, “my blog is dumb.” That would be me. 🙂 Have fun!!!June 6, 2014 – 12:06 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw, Emily! I wish you were coming!!! And I will definitely post on it and share lots of embarrassing photos and stuff! Isn’t it sad how we all think our blogs are both dumb and that we love them so much at the same time?? We should realize that we’re awesome and fabulous. Well, you are anyway. I’m working on it.June 6, 2014 – 12:31 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - Why are you still here replying to comments? Shouldn’t you be packing a razor or something??
    No doubt you will have a great time, with our without your Metallica shirt. And your manly voice is endearing. 🙂June 6, 2014 – 12:39 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Your comment made me go pack! And now, I’m back home to reality and preschool graduation next week and so much to do… but being behind was worth it. It really was a great conference. Thanks for liking my man voice.June 9, 2014 – 10:04 amReplyCancel

  • Kim - Bwahaha. You are freaking hilarious! Man, that she-devil of yours is a total bitch! Mine is too at times so I definitely get it.

    Wish I was going to the conference as well. Would be a blast to meet so many of you. Hell, I also wish I was able to go to BlogHer in San Jose. It’s my hometown for crap’s sake! *sigh* Sucks to be kinda sorta broke. And it sucks that everything has to be so damn expensive.

    Okay, enough with the pity party. Have a blast! Can’t wait to read about your experiences when you return!June 6, 2014 – 12:48 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - She really is a total bitch, Kim! Sorry to read that yours is as well. Your home town is San Jose? I read about a couple of people (I think somebody posted in Bloppy Bloggers) that they can no longer go so maybe you could score a ticket for extra-cheap? I’d love to meet you! And yeah, it totally sucks that everything’s so expensive. I’ll have to write about the conference and post some embarrassing photos! Stay tuned 🙂June 9, 2014 – 10:06 amReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Oh, this post makes me SO JEALOUS! I would LOVE to be there, but then I’d be the one thinking, “I don’t know anybody,” or, “I want my bed.” Do you want to drop by SS on your way north?
    For the record, I still remember your super cool sandals from LTYM, and I don’t think you’re old, fat, or wrinkled, and I DO think you’re funny. Maybe it wasn’t important to say that, but I did.
    And I’m glad you wrote this out, because yeah, everyone’s probably thinking the same thing.June 6, 2014 – 2:11 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I wish you’d have been there Sarah! We’ll have to get together soon and have the kids play together. I wore the sandals from LTYM! And I thank you so much for saying you think I am not fat or wrinkled or old and that you think I’m funny. 😀 I think you’re pretty awesome yourself you know.June 9, 2014 – 10:51 amReplyCancel

  • Don - Oh my god, you women are so fucked up! See, I have to say fucked up because retarded is no longer PC and my limited vocabulary leaves me stumped when I can’t be politically incorrect. You’ll be the bell of the ball, dear, I just know it. Be yourself though. Don’t be fake. Nobody likes that. I’m totally jealous too. I’d love to drink beer and blow spit bubbles with Kate. Have fun! Lots of pics.June 6, 2014 – 2:13 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA you crack me up. And I’m never fake I promise. Damnit, I forgot to ask Kate to blow spit bubbles! We had huge fun though. For real. Wish you’d have been there. There was one man blogger – you’d have been able to have your choice of dancing partners at the 80’s prom. Although my friend Jessica dressed up as a dude, with a mullet.June 9, 2014 – 10:54 amReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - I know you’ll have a wonderful time and that you’ll leave IRL people as in awe of you as we readers are. I speak with authority because I remember your man-voice!

    (Kidding. I didn’t remember it that way.)

    P.S. You were in my head with this post each time I go to a blogging thingy. Only I’m not as funny and I don’t own a Metallica shirt.

    Enjoy!June 6, 2014 – 2:40 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thanks, Lori! I really did have a blast. Everybody should own a Metallica shirt 😉June 9, 2014 – 11:03 amReplyCancel

  • Yvonne - Kristi, I love this. You have such a talent for writing really serious stuff, and yet making it so funny! Or really funny stuff, yet making really important points. Or something.
    I hope you have a great time a the conference!June 6, 2014 – 2:47 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks so much Yvonne! I really did have an excellent time. And I even learned some stuff!June 9, 2014 – 11:23 amReplyCancel

  • Marcia @ Menopausal Mother - I was absolutely TERRIFIED of going to the ERMA conference—to the point of having panic attacks. But an amazing thing happened–when I got there, I discovered women who were just like me, who shared the same fears and anxieties. We laughed, we drank wine together and we bonded like people who had known each other since childhood. I felt like I had come home to my tribe after all these years. It was one of the best experiences of my life, and I know it will be the same for you. I’d give anything to be there with you. And OMG you and Kate together—-WATCH OUT. WORLD!!!June 6, 2014 – 4:15 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Marcia,
      Thank you so much for getting it! I wasn’t having panic attacks (I’m so so sorry you were – that is hard) but I was truly nervous. But YES – women. People. Overall so kind and fabulous. Everybody was wonderful – so glad that your ERMA experience was fabulous too. And Kate is AWESOME in person. Seriously. One of these days, we’ll both get to meet you I hope!June 9, 2014 – 12:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Renae C. - I’ve never actually been to a blog conference and have no immediate plans to go, but I would have the same insecurities. I hope you have fun, Leonard!June 6, 2014 – 4:27 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA I had to read “I hope you have fun Leonard” twice to remember that was me for a minute there. Thanks, Renae! It really was fun – I highly recommend going to one if you can!June 9, 2014 – 12:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Nicki Gilbert - I am jealous of everyone who gets to meet you in person at BlogU! They are damn damn lucky to have you in your real-life awesomeness. Have the best time – and don’t forget your online friends who love you (and even more after reading this fabulously honest post) xoJune 6, 2014 – 6:04 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I wish I were able to meet YOU – hopefully one of these days and I’ll never forget my online friends. Ever ever.June 9, 2014 – 12:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Louise - Have a wonderful time! And, while I’m not there, rest assured you most certainly have better shoes than me 😉

    So you can keep that little jewel of confidence in your back pocket as you walk into the room.June 6, 2014 – 8:53 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA Louise! I ended up wearing a lot of flipflops. And you know what? It was totally fine. Completely. Fun, even!June 9, 2014 – 12:53 pmReplyCancel

  • Mike - How exciting and you’re going to have an incredible time, Kristi! The text screen shots were hysterical! You rock always our dear friend 🙂June 7, 2014 – 4:54 amReplyCancel

  • Joy - The conference will be awesome and you will be awesome. They will all love you!
    Enjoy yourself and have a glass of Cosmopolitan for me! xoJune 7, 2014 – 8:12 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Joy! I miss you! So good to see your sweet name here – it gives me much joy (get it hehe). They didn’t have Cosmos but I did have a glass of wine or two for you! Cheers friend.June 9, 2014 – 1:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - I wish I was going. There are so many bloggers that I would love to meet. I am beyond positive that you are going to be just fine. You’re right thought, we all do it and I know I would be. Have fun….can’t wait to hear all about it.June 7, 2014 – 5:12 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I wish you’d have been there. It ended up being great but I do look fat in the photos.June 9, 2014 – 8:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - OK, so Sarah and I considered going…how fun would that have been? But my stupid school year got extended and it would’ve been a nightmare and a half to squeeze it in when school isn’t finished yet. All the rest…about the shoes and the non-funniness and the missing my kid? Totally would have happened. I would be the “my blog is dumb” one in the picture – most definitely! I hope you are right smack in the middle of having an awesome time right now!June 7, 2014 – 5:56 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sarah as in AmyCake Sarah? Really??? I so wish you’d have been there (even if I have the wrong Sarah). I’m still the “my blog is dumb” in the photo, and I did have a great time, fat and all!!June 9, 2014 – 11:20 pmReplyCancel

      • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - Yes, AmyCake Sarah! If school hadn’t been extended it might have worked. We would SO have had a wonderful time being there with you. So glad you had a good time!June 10, 2014 – 12:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Jean - I regret not seeing this before the conference. I used the same thinking to calm myself down. For the record, who I met at the conference was who I read on Finding Ninee. Truly. It was great meeting you.June 8, 2014 – 3:05 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Jean, I loved loved loved meeting you. I’m just way bummed that T didn’t get to play with R because they’d have had a blast. And even if they didn’t, we would have, watching them. Here’s to calming down and you are adorable. For real. So happy to have hugged you in person.June 10, 2014 – 12:17 amReplyCancel

  • Lana - How fun! I was cracking up. Hope you had a great time!June 8, 2014 – 7:14 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thank you! It ended up being fabulous and I could have not worried at all.June 10, 2014 – 12:21 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - haha! You are funny. And we were all nervous. And most people have better shoes than me. And yes, I was nervous you’d all think I wasn’t cool or nice, but also nervous about leaving my kids for the first time.
    And really, one of those things turned out just fine, but I’m not sure if I’m cool or nice.
    What I do know is that the girl in my blog is the girl in this brain and this body, and my brain and body went to BlogU together, but they didn’t go to prom together because they’re LAME.June 9, 2014 – 2:48 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - You are cool. You are nice. You are amazing and exactly as I thought you’d be. I’m so glad I got to hug you and giggle with you and give you a cookie in person. For real. HUGE.June 10, 2014 – 12:23 amReplyCancel

  • Caroline - I love your graphics… and I can’t wait to hear about your trip!June 9, 2014 – 8:36 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thanks Caroline! I just read your post and we should talk about concerts!!June 10, 2014 – 12:35 amReplyCancel

  • BB - It’ll be interesting to hear how it went. I’ve had a few in-person meet-ups and they’ve all gone swimmingly!June 9, 2014 – 9:32 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Me too. I think it’s amazing how much more alike we are than different even when we feel like the loser.June 10, 2014 – 12:43 amReplyCancel

  • Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life - I can’t believe I am just reading this now. That is how far behind I am! You are perfect just the way you are, and I can’t believe you let any of those stupid self doubts in! I am so glad I got to meet you in real life!June 13, 2014 – 8:47 pmReplyCancel

Today’s Our Land post has been brought to you by my amazingly touching and funny Listen to Your Mother DC co-reader, Lisa Cadigan. Lisa blogs at My Daily Presents, and runs Cadigan Creative, a site whose mission is to foster community, art, inclusion, and making a difference in this world through art. Sound a bit like Our Land? To […]

View full post »

by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
email a friend

  • Kerri - Letting go kind of sucks because it hurts so much. But the upside? They soar to the sky when we let go. You must be so proud of your boy (and girl). But the boy because he defied the odds and the naysayers. You rocked it mamma!June 4, 2014 – 11:19 amReplyCancel

    • Lisa C - Thanks for reading and for cheerleading for me and my kids! They’re pretty great kids…and hard as the letting go can be, it is fun to watch them fly <3June 4, 2014 – 1:46 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - So true, Kerri! Letting go is SO hard. Until they fly. But it’s still hard.June 4, 2014 – 8:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Absolutely warmed my heart, but I would be lying if I said the kindergarten part didn’t make me tear up and choke back a few tears here. See, my oldest will be starting kindergarten in the fall. She tells me everyday she can’t wait to go, but of course, being my oldest I am a nervous wreck. So, I am excited for her, but definitely nervous here, too and could relate so much to your words here about that. Thank you for sharing with us today.June 4, 2014 – 1:50 pmReplyCancel

    • Lisa C - For each of my kids, I wrote them a letter on the day they started kindergarten. As soon as I got home from putting them on the bus, I took out a pad and paper, and wrote all of the things I was thinking/proud of/wishing for them and sealed them up for them to read later (maybe at their high school graduations?) I am thinking I will do the same thing next year with middle school, too. Looking back on those letters, I have grown and changed a lot as a mom, too…but the letting go remains bittersweet always <3June 4, 2014 – 9:01 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Janine, you and I will so have to stick together in September because I’m telling you now that sending Tucker to kindergarten brings me huge anxiety and ickiness and the best of the best hopes!
      Feeling your pain, Sistah!June 4, 2014 – 10:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Diane - It doesn’t matter if your child struggles or sails through every stage of development. There is nothing more difficult than letting go. Inspiring, Lisa. Absolutely inspiring!June 4, 2014 – 2:57 pmReplyCancel

    • Lisa C - I am so glad you all liked it. And it’s true, Diane – I have a daughter, too, and she’s a kid who glides through school and social situations with ease, and sending her to kindergarten was heart breaking in its own way…my baby 🙂June 4, 2014 – 8:52 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - So so right, Diane, nothing harder than letting go. Until they fly? xoxoJune 4, 2014 – 11:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - You brought back many memories for me, both good as well as the worrying ones, about my son who had early intervention services to address his delays and challenges. We were once told he may never talk, or be a team player or be mainstreamed. At the age of 16, he is a walking, talking, basketball playing guy who goes to not just a regular high school but a prep school for boys who are smart, love sports, and are his friends. We are now just 2 years away from sending him to college. That thought makes me yearn for those first days of kindergarten or middle school or even high school. Yikes! I’m so happy to read about another success story from early intervention – I bet your little man will keep surprising you in all aspects of his life.:)June 4, 2014 – 2:59 pmReplyCancel

    • Lisa C - WOW! I love your comment! And my boy-o loves basketball, too! Coincidence?? Thanks for the preview of the future 😉 It’s all good stuff.June 4, 2014 – 8:54 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Emily you are awesome for the reminder about BD! For real. And thanks for sharing him with Lisa!! <3June 4, 2014 – 11:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Aw!!
    My daughter is graduating preschool next week so I’m all kinds of weepy/weird/excited about it all. She’s totally excited. I wish I could be that cool.
    My son is the opposite – early talker/late walker. Well that was then. Now he runs.
    It’s funny to have seen so many different types of development and to know that it’s still hard to watch them grow.June 4, 2014 – 5:33 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Awe Tamara! Tucker’s graduating preschool too. In a few weeks. And how lucky lucky am I to say that I have the amazing YOU to capture his butterflyness on film this weekend? Please don’t forget your camera.June 4, 2014 – 11:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life - I love how when we step back a little, they rise to the occasion! I loved this!June 4, 2014 – 9:38 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - I’m sure you’ve prepared your son well, Lisa. Middle school was an easier transition than I thought I would be for my kids, and I hope it’s the same for your son. Thanks for sharing your story with us!June 4, 2014 – 10:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie - I loved this, letting them go is so hard but our fears aren’t necessarily their fears and I think that’s why they amaze us – because we keep those fears in our hearts and minds (which is good!) and they just keep movin’ on, taking it all in stride and not getting too far ahead of themselves.

    Each time we hit a new school or schedule I have to take a step back and let them experience it. Day by day. And most days are good.

    And when they aren’t, I’m here, just like you are – and we keep on going.June 5, 2014 – 12:41 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Stephanie,
      I think you’re so right about that being part of why they amaze us so much – they really do keep on taking things in stride. I hope my son does as well as Lisa’s did in kindergarten next fall. Because scary! But yeah, most days are good. Thanks so much for the thoughtful comment!June 5, 2014 – 10:33 amReplyCancel

  • Don - Being a kid growing up is harder on us parents than it is the kids for sure. I’ve never worried about my daughter, but I’m nervous about my 5 year old switching from his private preschool to the public kindergarten. It’s a good school with good people, so i’m sure he’ll be fine, but he’s a sensitive lad so I worry, even though in my mind, I know he’ll be fine, just like your boy. Thanks for sharing.June 5, 2014 – 12:45 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’m really nervous about Tucker’s kindergarten, too, Don. Going from a preschool class of six to one of 10 students was scary enough. Next year, a class of 24? Gulp. He’ll get extra support but still.June 5, 2014 – 10:34 amReplyCancel

      • Lisa - Kristi – I will look forward to hearing your success stories once your little man starts to make his way in the big world. It’s an adventure for sure…just remember, it has taken me five-plus years to write about kindergarten with some perspective-LOL. But it’s all good!June 13, 2014 – 10:56 pmReplyCancel

    • Lisa - Thanks for reading, Don. I have to keep reminding myself that “all’s well” a lot. But it is. All’s well. They have their own paths to carve, and will make their way, as we all do one way or another…not to say I’m always in THAT space… 😉June 13, 2014 – 10:54 pmReplyCancel

  • zoe - Does any parent NOT cry that first bus day? Sending your kid off on his first day of independent life….oh man I still remember that! It gets easier. ..of course it took 20 years but…..This was a beautiful contribution…thank you! I loved the Mr.Fox comment when all the hands shot up!!!!June 5, 2014 – 2:25 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - If there’s a parent who doesn’t cry the first day of the bus ride, I’d like to know about it! Or not. My son has been riding the bus to preschool for a year now and I still get a little emotional sending him off.
      I loved the Mr. Fox comment too!June 5, 2014 – 10:35 amReplyCancel

    • Lisa - Thanks, Zoe! I had a feeling I would still be melancholy in 20 years. Ce la vie 😉June 8, 2014 – 9:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - Oh my. That first day of the school bus ride must be an absolute tear jerker. We don’t have it here. I’m thinking maybe I should be happy for that?
    Loved the Mr. Fox response. Absolutely wonderful.June 5, 2014 – 5:24 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kelly
      It IS a tear jerker but so would any other way. My son’s first day of preschool, I drove him and bawled in the parking lot for a good ten minutes. In fact, I’m getting a little choked up right now just thinking about it.June 5, 2014 – 8:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Awwww! I got goosebumps at “he picked his sister”. This was a beautiful share Lisa and Kristi!June 8, 2014 – 9:17 pmReplyCancel

    • Lisa - I got goosebumps when he picked her, too 🙂June 13, 2014 – 10:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Linda Atwell - It sounds like you’ve prepared him well. Kudos to you (and the teachers and everyone who loves and supports your son)!June 12, 2014 – 11:49 pmReplyCancel

It’s been a couple of weeks since I’ve posted a true Thankful post. Sure, I reminded everybody that grammar matters recently, but haven’t shared much about my own life and what I’m thankful for. I want to do so today though, as it’s our ONE YEAR anniversary/birthday thing of Thankful. Can you imagine? I’m thankful […]

View full post »

by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
email a friend

  • Robbie - AWWW the picture of riding with PaPa is adorable! Yay for nurtruing friendships 🙂June 2, 2014 – 12:14 amReplyCancel

  • zoe - Oh wow!!!! I think this could be my favorite all time post!!! It was times like this when my boy was in his element that I knew his future was secure…he will be fine and happy and find his way to his calling…I loved this!!! Made me teary with remembrance…that Tucker boy is gonna fly into his future or farm or be a naturalist or a dr. Doolittle…he has such potential!!!June 2, 2014 – 3:32 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Zoe, really? Thank you for saying that. I find that I have less and less time to post and when I want to be thankful, I want to be thankful. I agree, and hope, and pray that you’re right – Tucker will find his flying. His calling, and his life, on his own. (HOPE)June 2, 2014 – 10:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - That last picture of Tucker made me smile so much and loved his kiss goodnight. But seriously, all wonderful things and loved the simple fact that most were about outdoors with the weather finally being so gloriously summer-like here, too. 🙂June 2, 2014 – 7:44 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’m so glad you liked his kiss Janine! I loved it too. Our sitter actually took it…Outdoors is awesome and I feel like such a better parent when we do more of it.June 2, 2014 – 10:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Melissa Senecal - Being outside is always a wonderful thing! And us living in the country, we have cows right next door. We even have a new little one!! I’m sure Tucker will one day fly high and you will cry with your heart full of pride.June 2, 2014 – 8:29 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Being outside is so bigbig. I’m jealous of the cows you have next door. We have to drive seven hours to PaPaw’s farm but well obviously totally worth it.June 2, 2014 – 10:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - That flying contraption looks awesome! My heart would be a little terrified too, but those are usually the experiences our kids love the most.June 2, 2014 – 11:22 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Dana, you are wise, because yes, those are, of course, what our kids love the best.June 2, 2014 – 10:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - Oh brave boy…but braver mamma for letting him fly. I love your thankful list and that you call his grandfather pecker and get away with itJune 2, 2014 – 11:46 amReplyCancel

  • Lanaya | Raising Reagan - Tucker is such a handsome boy! I love how much he is getting to experience. The tractor ride and the cows looked like fun 🙂
    I hope you are doing well love!
    I hate being so busy and not being able to catch up all the time.

    Hugs!

    xoxo
    LanayaJune 2, 2014 – 12:19 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I hope you’re doing well too, Lanaya! I miss your happy beautiful face (and Reagan’s) but yeah, the busy just sucks with not catching up. I can’t believe Rea will soon be SO OLD!!!! OMG time flies.June 2, 2014 – 11:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - Love all of these, as well as the precious photos. I know this was a minor part of your post, but I can totally relate to being annoyed about the bush. Jon does stuff like that all the time – cutting down and/or putting up things in the garden without consulting me. Well actually he usually DOES consult me and the one time he didn’t, he sticks this ugly looking tree in an odd spot in our yard. Luckily, my dudes hate it there too so we were all screaming at him to move the tree somewhere else after he had spent hours planting it. He said he’d move it, but he hasn’t yet. You can be sure we’ll stay on his butt until he does though.:)June 2, 2014 – 1:41 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Emily – you rock for getting the part of the post I was trying to skip over but actually was one of the biggest parts of our weekend. I couldn’t believe Robert tore up TWO BUSHES that were just fine where they were. His excuse was “they are bushy and collect too many pine needles.” LAME. However, sigh, it does look better now. After you know, like money and time and ugh. Make Jon move the tree 😉June 2, 2014 – 11:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - What a great trip to the farm! What a fabulous learning experience for Tucker! You guys have been having such great times. That bouncey thing is super impressive.June 2, 2014 – 2:53 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - The farm was awesome, and yeah, the learning stuff and exploring stuff has been amazing the past couple of weeks.June 2, 2014 – 11:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Scarlet did one of those jumping things last year. I was in awe of her – to even think, “Yeah, I want to get into a harness and fly over this fair.” It was awesome.
    Our kids are brave!June 2, 2014 – 5:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life - It looks like a great Memorial weekend for you. I loved the cow pic! My kids did that jumping thing when they were little (two of them did anyway, I believe the youngest was still in a front pack) and they loved it! Your post reminded me of more carefree days. I think we need to work at getting some of that back here.June 2, 2014 – 7:13 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I loved the cow pic, too, Michelle, and can’t believe I thought about not including it because this blog and cows? Not that much. But this past weekend, cows were our awesome reality. Here’s to carefree days. I think we need more of them as well.June 2, 2014 – 11:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Big grins over here. That was a wonderful Memorial Day weekend. I love that Tucker was fearless with the flying thing. AND caterpillars because I can’t – that’s my cryptonite. I had to scroll quickly passed that one. PaPaw’s house looks like a wonderful experience for him. The last picture is my absolute favorite.June 2, 2014 – 9:23 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I love that Tucker was fearless in flying, too Kenya! UGH to yucky caterpillars and all bugs, really. I am trying to be better but yuck. The last photo was my favorite too – his babysitter took it.June 2, 2014 – 11:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - THIS is the one! This week, this is the post that made my heart burst open! Oh, Kristi…the wonderful things in this post make me smile big. I am so proud of Tucker and I know how happy all of these wondrous things made you. Thank you so much for sharing it all 🙂June 2, 2014 – 9:32 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - OH SANDY!! I can’t tell you how much your comment means to me. I hardly ever post this way with so few words but really felt that it was important this week and I love that you saw the wonderful. Thank you!!June 2, 2014 – 11:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - That last picture of Tucker is absolutely priceless! I love it! We do indeed have much to be thankful for. Although rarely link up, I do so appreciate the reminder every weekend!June 2, 2014 – 9:51 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Lisa. I don’t link up every weekend so shhhh… and hey you! We’re going to meet next weekend! YYYYYYAAAAAYYYYYYYYJune 2, 2014 – 11:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Courtney Conover - SO glad I chose to visit today! What lovely pics, and that one of Tucker on the ATV…if Scotty were peering over my shoulder as I read this post, he surely would have remarked on that one in particular because he is obsessed with those things. (I think I’ll pull up your blog in the morning and show him…)

    Also, so prophetic that you guys are rocking Groucho Marx glasses, as Scotty actually took his to bed with him tonight. lolJune 2, 2014 – 10:28 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - AWWW no way that Scotty took his glasses to bed? Tucker does that, too, with his favorite toys. Love!!June 2, 2014 – 11:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Alison - Ah, such wonderful, beautiful things to be thankful for. Tucker is a gorgeous boy!June 3, 2014 – 9:27 amReplyCancel

  • Natalie - I have to say I am thankful every time I take the time to look at one of your thoughtful and beautifully written posts and realising I am not quite so alone. I loved the image of Tucker flying high and I am sure he will continue to fly even higher! Thanks for making me smile and take the time to realise how amazing our children really are 🙂June 3, 2014 – 3:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa C - Congratulations on the waiting in line 🙂 That’s HUGE. LOVE.June 4, 2014 – 7:14 amReplyCancel

  • Dyanne @ I Want Backsies - That picture of Tucker blowing a kiss? Worth a million thankfuls!June 6, 2014 – 12:11 amReplyCancel

  • Misty - i totally dread the day when p and j want to ride the rides at the amusement park or fair. or maybe i just dread the day when we have to trudge through the crowds at fairs and amusement parks?June 6, 2014 – 12:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Linda Atwell - this is a perfect thankful post. I liked every single part. It made me smile.June 12, 2014 – 11:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Karl - Tucker’s braver than I, ’nuff said. And you guys are looking hilarious in Groucho mask but i see they’re missing the mustaches.December 29, 2014 – 1:49 amReplyCancel

Years ago, when I was still young enough to know pretty much everything but physics and chemistry because hello totally boring school subjects that were clearly meant for Other People, I was convinced that women my age were whiners. I remember a couple of nice women at work who would sit at our communal lunch […]

View full post »

by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
email a friend

  • Janine Huldie - I totally do remember those days and I really didn’t think my metabolism would change with age, but sadly it did and now just like you I have to work out in order to lose weight any weight and skipping meals definitely doesn’t do the trick anymore either.May 29, 2014 – 10:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - I don’t really have time to comment tonight. I’m off to the gym and then going for a bike ride followed by a swim which is topped off by a hike. In the dark. Up Grouse Mountain to the 3,200 foot level. I need to lose 10 lbs by Saturday. Wait. What? I’m not 20 anymore? Ouch.May 29, 2014 – 10:07 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Well, Kelly, all I’ve got to say to that is better you than me. But wait – does that work to lose 10 lbs by Saturday? Because I might be down with that.May 30, 2014 – 4:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - I just left you a rambling note on FB, so I’ll keep it brief. I think the key is Spanx and dim lighting. The end.May 29, 2014 – 10:07 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Spanx is HOT though. I only tried it once and decided I’d rather be lumpy and buldgy than fat and hot.May 30, 2014 – 4:02 pmReplyCancel

  • allison - I actually think most of my life problems are solved with more sour cream! & oh so impressed that you have the strength to skip meals. I talk a big game then snarf down potato chips at 10pm.
    Great post, as always!May 29, 2014 – 10:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Anna Fitfunner - Wait? What? You mean that I can’t lose weight by thinking about exercising? I actually HAVE to exercise? A LOT? And I have to exercise MORE as I get older? This is fundamentally unfair. I demand that something be done about this!!!!

    (Kristi: funny as always! I wish my post was as humorous; but it’s about Best Buddies…)May 29, 2014 – 10:20 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Anna,
      Sucks, right? And so not fair. Sigh.
      Also, Best Buddies sounds AWESOME. I can’t wait for Tucker to peddle correctly so we can do it!May 30, 2014 – 4:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Allie - You are preaching to the choir. The mystery of aging metabolism will drive me insane until my very last day!May 29, 2014 – 10:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Echo - Well, this metabolism thing has never worked right for me, so I have always been fat. My favorite form of exercise? Chewing and parenting.May 29, 2014 – 10:46 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Here’s to chewing and parenting. Actually, the parenting part really is good exercise. Unless you’re sitting on the couch eating gummy bears while your kid has a snack like I’m maybe doing right now…May 30, 2014 – 5:03 pmReplyCancel

  • karen - I think my metabolism stopped working when I graduated high school…seriously, it’s been a battle ever since. I used to hate exercising, but I always did cardio…now doing strength training, I LOVE IT…want to get stronger, not skinny.May 30, 2014 – 8:12 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Here’s to getting stronger rather than skinny, Karen! Such a healthier thing!May 30, 2014 – 5:03 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - Wow, you were an ass. 😉
    There’s just no time! Driving children hither and yon takes all of the time. And clearly I can’t play with them anymore without causing serious injury to myself. When they are all old enough to be in school, I’m heading to the gym! No, really. I’m going to. Probably.May 30, 2014 – 8:14 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA! I guess I was an ass. I didn’t mean to be one though, so I have that going for me, I guess. Your poor knee. Crutches are good exercise though right? And hey, I broke my hand in three places falling from a cot that was as tall as my Ugg boot, so um, yeah.
      We keep our gym membership with the best of intentions. Sigh.May 30, 2014 – 5:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Middle Age metabolism sucks!!! For me it’s the opposite, though – I can kill myself working out and lose hardly anything. I have to REALLY watch what I eat to lose any weight – like eat nothing but air for a week and I might lose 2 pounds. This is tough because I love to eat and I have no willpower. I also worry A LOT about what I am doing in front of my daughters – I don’t want to constantly be saying “Mommy’s on a diet” or “Mommy’s trying to lose weight” because I don’t want them to grow up thinking they have to be skinny to be pretty or acceptable. All I can say is God Bless Spanx and sorry for this rant!May 30, 2014 – 8:53 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I think it’s great that you’re so mindful about what you say in front of your daughters. I know of a five year old girl who has asked her mom if she’s fat, and that’s just sad (she’s not fat at all). I only wore spanx once and found them to be so HOT that I just let it all hang out. Sigh.May 30, 2014 – 5:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - You speak the truth. But at least you have boobs. Mine are gone, and I have a tummy so I’m basically shapeless. And need to lose five pounds.May 30, 2014 – 9:19 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri - Damn turning 40!!! How can I be flat chested yet now sag? How come having popcorn for dinner is now enough to gain me a pouch? It is so unfair that life bites us in the ass. When we are finally old enough to appreciate our bodies they abandon us!May 30, 2014 – 9:42 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sigh to sagging and being flat chested, Kerri. My boobs are too big. You’re so right – finally old enough to appreciate them and boom. They make it harder.May 30, 2014 – 5:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - Metabolism. Menopause. Wham! What I used to do Does. Not. Work. Anymore.

    I do WW points (kind of slidey, though, probably could tighten that up a bit).

    I do Pilates 3 days a week for muscles. I am getting lovely muscles everywhere!

    Unfortunately, the muscles are hidden under a layer of fat that WILL NOT BUDGE. :-/

    Starting June 1 I am doing a personally-inflicted 30 days of cardio challenge.

    I am going to do 30 minutes of cardio – any kind – every day. Walk, ride a bike, go the gym, whatever as long as I get 30 minutes in.

    Fat beware …May 30, 2014 – 1:22 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Elizabeth, the 30-minute 30-day cardio challenge sounds awesome! What a great idea! It’s just plain sad that it’s so much harder to lose fat than it used to be. Sigh.May 30, 2014 – 5:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - My favorite form of exercise (besides ice-cream eating, which I hate to brag but I’m very good at) is playing tennis. I love the sport and even compete on a team, but guess what? So far this season, I’ve lost both my matches to women who were likely 10-15 years younger than me. All I know is when we got off the court, I was sweating profusely and my hair looked like I stuck my finger in a socket. I’m not sure these women even broke a sweat at all. Then I was told by one of the tennis pros watching me play that maybe I had to work on my stamina. I told him to f-off. 🙂May 30, 2014 – 1:36 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - A skill such as being very good at ice cream eating should totally be bragged about Emily! That’s a bummer those young whippersnappers (is there a word I could use that would make me seem even older? I don’t think so) beat you at tennis. Good for you for telling that fool of a coach to f-off!May 30, 2014 – 8:11 pmReplyCancel

  • JenKehl - My Skewed View - LOL! You are so totally right it SUCKS! Man, I am on a hardcore diet, really hardcore. Before I got married, even met my husband, I did it to be more healthy, I lost 20 pounds and looked awesome.
    Same diet 16 years later, I have lost 18 pounds and have 20 to go! I can’t even tell I lost the weight, my bra is still too tight, people aren’t sure if I’m pregnant or not, and that thing that hangs under my chin begging to become a waddle, isn’t going anywhere. Ah….middleage, how I loathe you!May 30, 2014 – 2:44 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Dude! That’s awesome you’ve lost 18 pounds though! That’s a TON!! And yeah, I am loathing middle age as well. Sigh.May 30, 2014 – 8:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Just walking in the woods or dog park for me.
    I have to tell you that I think that way. I was thinking that exact thought yesterday – that losing weight is so easy right now and will it always be this way?
    My father was a bean pole until his death and he could eat anything. He died at 36, though. It’s possible the metabolism would have slowed. His father was always a bean pole too, though.
    Who knows?
    Ask me again in a few years.May 30, 2014 – 4:34 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Well of course, gorgeous. Figured as much. 😉
      I hope you’re always a bean pole. Because it’s harder to be one and then not be one and then be one and then not and then try to and get it and then try to and not be able to get beyond fat bug body. Promise.May 31, 2014 – 11:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Bianca @ Rant Rave Crave - this totally reminds me of my sister. She’s ALWAYS been a skinny minny & would brag about how she could eat a dozen cupcakes & nothing would happen to her. She told me that a lot of girls would tell her “One day your fat is gonna catch up with you” and she just told them to shut up. They were right!
    I really don’t like schlepping to the gym either unless it’s for yoga or Zumba where I feel like I’m not working out when I really am if that makes sense.May 30, 2014 – 4:51 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - It’s really sick of me to be happy that her fat caught up with her, right??? OOOPS I mean, that sucks.May 31, 2014 – 11:22 pmReplyCancel

      • Bianca @ Rant Rave Crave - LOL! Not at all! 😉June 1, 2014 – 12:34 amReplyCancel

  • Marcia @ Menopausal Mother - Oh yes….now you’re speaking the language of my people. Exercise, diet, GAIN a pound. WTF is that all about? Just today I was thinking how much rounder my face is getting…but then I told myself it’s a good thing because plump faces hide wrinkles,,,,amiright?May 30, 2014 – 10:17 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - EXACTLY WTF Marcia??? It’s just RUDE really that this is how it is. But totally plump faces hide wrinkles. I think I’m going to go hit the chips and salsa (my healthy snack compared to Doritos and cheese). .May 31, 2014 – 11:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Uplifting Families - I remember riding my bike a ton when I was a teenager. Of course, that was before I turned 16 and had a car. I could ride for miles just because it was fun and got me from point a to b. Now I couldn’t ride a bike to save my life.May 30, 2014 – 10:48 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I had to ride a bike even when I was early 20’s because no car but I know what you mean. It sounds fun now, but it’s not…May 31, 2014 – 11:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Yvonne - I loved your description of yourself when you were younger. So funny, and so vivid. I could really imagine it. And wow to you cycling 30 miles a day. I thought I had it tough for a while when I did about 16 or so.
    I am pretty much the opposite of you regarding weight though. When I was in my teens I was obsessed with my weight and convinced I was overweight. (I wasn’t.) I was constantly trying to diet. I did get plump for a couple of years, and then I went away to college where I lived in student accommodation with meals provided – and no vending machines full of snacks. Not sure why, maybe it was not wanting to look like a pig in front of other students, but I lost weight. So I concluded that this was my “natural weight” and figured that everyone had a natural weight they would revert to with a reasonable diet. Not saying this is true, but it certainly helped me then!
    Maybe I’m just lucky, but I am post-menopause and have not seen any slowing down of my metabolism. I walk every day, but it’s like your cycling – it’s just fitted into the day. Mostly it’s thinking time!May 31, 2014 – 5:53 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Isn’t it funny how weight is so obsessive at different ages? I find that my givingashit about it comes and goes…and, as I age and it’s harder to control, that I care less, sigh.June 1, 2014 – 12:29 amReplyCancel

  • Rea - I’m 25 and married with one kid. People always tell me I’m lucky because no matter what I eat, I don’t get big or fat at all. And I do eat a lot although that doesn’t mean I don’t skip meals too. Haha. I work at night and it’s just easier to forgo food than sleep. I’d rather sleep to be awake at night for work. Now since you mentioned that you’ve proven metabolism does change as we age, I ought to listen to you! And start exercising now. 🙂May 31, 2014 – 8:28 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Nah, do what you do and just be nice to yourself when you’re my age if doing what you do now no longer works. It very well might and likely will!June 1, 2014 – 12:30 amReplyCancel

  • Mytwicebakedpotato - I remember thinking it was weird and gross that my mother’s thighs touched- not rub- just touch. I remember eating Weight Watchers frozen desserts and going to meetings and all the time she kept saying “someday” when I have her any smack talk.
    Well hello Someday! Ugh!!!June 1, 2014 – 12:53 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Yep! I had group of ladies I used to work with who would say “Just wait” to me. I was like – whatever. I could eat a whole sleeve of girl scout cookies at my desk and then go out to lunch and stuff myself. Sigh. I remember one time I borrowed a ball gown from someone. It was a little hard to zip up in the back and a little snug in the hips. All I had to do was cut back for a week. Like bring my own lunch and no whole sleeves of anything. I didn’t even exercise back then, and I got in that dress. It wasn’t even something I stressed about – like having a plan B. I knew I’d be able to wear it.

    If I had to pick a favorite form of exercise it would be walking, but looking at the same neighborhood over and over again gets old. AND you really have to walk a million miles a day to make any difference.

    Yeah I hate exercising.June 1, 2014 – 1:16 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kenya, regarding the dress – I know- it was SO much easier to lose weight back then! UGH. I thought a month ago that surely I’d be at least five pounds down by now. Nope. I’m not. Sigh.June 1, 2014 – 6:26 pmReplyCancel

  • April - Considering I do it every night, I wish tossing and turning was an exercise. I always know when I got really good sleep when my covers were left where I put them, and that hasn’t happened for a while! wish our metabolism didn’t change, but I really wonder if it’s our lack of desire at 30 to ride our bike across town, and not our metabolism? Granted, I’m still not riding my bike, it’s just a thought.June 1, 2014 – 6:12 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Hm… maybe you’re onto something about no longer finding it fun to ride a bike across town. Hadn’t thought about it like that!June 1, 2014 – 6:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Remember when I wrote that post “Fast Forward Twenty Years” about exercising in front of 20 somethings at the gym where I work? Yeah. That. And this. Sigh. love you. xoxoJune 3, 2014 – 9:11 amReplyCancel

  • Michelle AKA Crumpets and Bollocks - My body is a rebel apparently. When I was in high school, I couldn’t lose weight at all. Then I went to college and took a fitness swimming class and did cheerleading, and I lost all kinds of weight. I slowly kept losing weight from that, like it bumped my metabolism to keep losing even though I stopped working out. Then I gained muscle weight in the military (I weighed 170 wearing a size 4). Then I had kids, and that messed up the metabolism. After having kid 2, I started taking Hydroxycut with Hoodia for energy, and I slowly lost the weight, got pregnant again, repeat. Then I got too skinny thanks to stress/sleep deprivation and migraines, and I couldn’t gain weight if my life depended on it. A year later I was finally back up to a size 3/5, my happy place, and then I went to the hospital. In one week I gained 20 pounds and that kick started the metabolism to gain weight. I can’t flip it back now because I’m assuming I’m just old. And they stopped selling Hydroxycut with Hoodia. So basically, I have lots of clothes I can’t wear and have been stealing from the husband’s wardrobe. I’m still losing weight easier than I did in high school, so it makes no sense to me.June 4, 2014 – 11:46 amReplyCancel

  • Misty - lol. my absolute favorite form of exercise is changing the tv channel via the uber handy remote control! i do think you can loose weight by switching to caffeine free sprite, never eating anything with sugar or snack friendly foods, and having four peanut butter and crackers for lunch every day instead of chips and little debbies. oh! and you must switch to satisfries at burger king, they rock!June 6, 2014 – 12:25 pmReplyCancel

  • Nina - Word to this. I have finally started walking again after accepting that all the barre and yoga classes in the world might be relaxing, toning, and even fun . . . but I had to be doing some cardio. Blech.June 8, 2014 – 9:11 amReplyCancel

« Older posts Newer posts »

N e v e r   m i s s   a   n e w   p o s t !