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

It’s been almost four years and nine months since Tucker was born. Early on, I was fearful. Of dropping him, of not being worthy of him, that he might stop breathing, that he was too thin, that he wasn’t sleeping enough, and a thousand other things. I kept track of how often he ate, how […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Out One Ear - Linda Atwell - Awesome! You know, I loved every cycle of my kids lives. It’s weird, but when they were babies, I was ready for them to be babies. When they were toddlers, same thing. However, when someone would bring younger (or older) kids over to our house–I sometimes felt a bit overwhelmed because I ended up liking the age my kids were at the moment. Does that make any sense??? I guess what I’m saying is that I was most comfortable with the ages my kids were at any given time and even though I enjoyed them younger (and older), I didn’t want to go back to any of the earlier stages. Somedays I was in a hurry for them to move onto the next stage–well, at least until the mouthy teenage stage came into view. Well, enough of that senseless babble. Happy Easter to you and your family. You’re post is out early! Good for you.April 20, 2014 – 12:56 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Linda,
      I love that you loved every cycle of your kids lives and I totally get that. I guess I’m just not there yet, as Tucker is only 4 1/2. I want to be there though, when I have your perspective, because that’s really the best way to be, right? And it’s totally not senseless babble, it’s perfect. Happy Easter to you and Lindsey and Nick and I so sos so hope Nick is on the mend soon…. xoApril 20, 2014 – 11:21 pmReplyCancel

      • linda Atwell - Out One Ear - I sure hope you knew I was just thinking and writing and not judging in any way shape or form. I know we all have our unique paths in this life and in raising our children and it will be just that: unique for each of us. I applaud your path. You have so much love. I was in such a hurry when my kids were little. I think I liked their new stages because we were working and saving and spending and juggling and life seemed so hectic. I had a business at the time and worked 80+ hours a week–in addition to dealing with Lindsey’s specialness. I don’t think I took as much time as mothers do today. I envy all of you and that you recognize time is precious. Enjoy every single moment. p.s. the last thing I would ever want to do is offend any of my support out there. Not that I think I did, but I sure hope I didn’t. 🙂April 23, 2014 – 1:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - What a handsome boy and what worthwhile moments! Inspires me to write one in the same theme!April 20, 2014 – 2:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - I like the way you worded that! We certainly have our own brand of Passover/Easter/Both/Neither over here. The purists would say we ruin both, but I say we relish both!
    Anyway. I loved this and all of the excitements of one special day.April 20, 2014 – 3:57 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Relishing both is perfect and here are to the excitements of today and every day. To remembering them.April 20, 2014 – 11:48 pmReplyCancel

  • zoe - You gotta love a guy who can rock a spider man shirt at an egg hunt! Why would anyone think that weird? He wasn’t sportin a halloween costume! He is so stinkin cute.. I love the newborn photo… they are perfect then… perfect size, perfect smell, perfect everything… On the dressing thing… my boy wore a bright rubber clown nose and a pair of bright yellow boots over PJ bottoms for almost a month. Insisted on wearing that getup no matter where we went and like you… I pick my battles… I have great photos of him in that nose! I love them! Kind of like what you said about being so aware in the beginning and later…April 20, 2014 – 4:42 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Zoe, I love that your son wore a bright rubber clown nose and yellow boots over PJs. That’s just plain old awesome! And good for you for going with the flow…I so know what you mean about picking your battles!April 21, 2014 – 9:49 amReplyCancel

  • Dana - We just came from Easter dinner with my in-laws, and are heading to my parents for a late Passover sedar. I’m thankful that I can be a part of both families, each with their own traditions. Happy Easter to you Kristi!April 20, 2014 – 4:52 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Happy Easter and Happy Passover, Dana! I love that you get both – that’s perfect and your kids will have their own traditions based on the combination of events that you guys all celebrate now. Pretty awesome, if you ask me!April 21, 2014 – 9:51 amReplyCancel

  • clark - what a an excellent young life form you have there, Mrs. Kristi!

    (you can tell I write compliments a lot… but I suspect that you know that by ‘excellent life form’ you know that I mean, a child that clearly knows how loved he is by his mother and no matter what, that will never change for him (that second part is what I meant by ‘Mrs. Kristi’)

    lolApril 20, 2014 – 6:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - What a beautiful post. The moments are fleeting, but your child is always your child. I sometimes notice my kids’ younger selves in their grown-up expressions.

    Happy Easter!April 20, 2014 – 6:36 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw, I love that you still see the little selves in their grown-up expressions. I sometimes see Tucker’s little baby face in his now, too, which I just love.April 21, 2014 – 10:56 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - What beautiful photos, Kristi, and such beautiful moments to be thankful for. I LOVE the Spider Man thing. Go Tucker! Wouldn’t you rather wear your comfy PJs to a social event? You know you would – I certainly would! If I could get away with PJs at work I’d do it. 🙂April 20, 2014 – 9:13 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Lisa, and yes, I would! In fact, I’m wearing my sweats right now (at home but, still). I wish I could wear PJs to work!April 21, 2014 – 10:57 amReplyCancel

  • Angel The Alien - He’s so cute! Glad he had fun at the Easter party! Time definitely flies with little kids… I’m already finding that with my baby nephew. He lives across the country and I barely get to see him, so when I am with him, I have to treasure every moment and try to get six months worth of love into a couple of days!April 20, 2014 – 10:44 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Angel,
      Bummer that your baby nephew lives across the country but I have no doubt that you do an excellent job of getting six months of love squeezed into a couple of days!April 21, 2014 – 10:58 amReplyCancel

  • Brittnei - Aww! I totally know what you mean about how things have changed! JR just turned 2 almost a week ago and wow he has grown so much! With him being my first like Tucker is your first, I can totally see what you mean about the concern of every tiny thing and each moment being so monumental. I try to hold onto so much of it by writing a letter to him about what he’s up to lately in a blog post each month 🙂 I haven’t been around for a while. We lost our baby so I took some time away to grieve. It’s great to be back and to read what’s new with you at your place. 🙂April 21, 2014 – 3:54 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Oh Brittnei. I’m so so so sorry that you lost your baby. That’s so hard…I know, because I’ve been there too. There’s really nothing anybody can say to help but please know that I’m thinking of you and sending prayers, peace, and virtual hugs your way.April 21, 2014 – 11:00 amReplyCancel

  • Michele - You are so right – at the beginning, every. moment. matters. And then the blur takes over, and trying to remember what happened yesterday, a week ago, a month ago, seems almost impossible. I love posts like these that help bring me back to the here and now. I’m glad you and Tucker had such a wonderful weekend!April 21, 2014 – 8:48 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Michele, and it’s funny how the blur takes over, isn’t it? We get so caught up in the worry or wonderfulness of the moment, and then, it’s gone.April 21, 2014 – 11:27 amReplyCancel

  • Melanie - Love his joy in those photos! What a cute guy. I feel the exact same way – the first year just flew by with my baby boy and I was SO in the moment, both worrying and enjoying, and now I feel like real life is catching up. Thanks for the reminder to live in and enjoy the moment! Happy Easter!April 21, 2014 – 9:57 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Happy Easter Melanie! And yeah, we really do get so caught up in the worrying and enjoying and then boom! It’s already a new age, with new worries and wonderful moments!April 21, 2014 – 11:29 amReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - First I just have to tell you how much I love the photo of you and Tucker. What a gorgeous moment and you ate glowing. I realize that so many of my blogging friends ate taking real steps to prioritize and take time to enjoy the little moments more. I know I am with you 100%. This post especially made me realize just how fast time is passing and I don’t want to miss the moments. I really, really don’t! Thanks for more perspective, my friend 🙂April 21, 2014 – 10:12 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sandy, time does really pass so quickly, doesn’t it? Sometimes, I feel like I am missing them. Others, I think “oh jeez, three more hours until bedtime? Now what to do??” which is part of why I wanted the reminder to cherish the hours because the year will be over before I’m ready for it. Thank you so much!April 21, 2014 – 2:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Nicole @ Work in Sweats Mama - What a beautiful post, Kristi! Thank you for sharing your memories and the precious moments with your son. I think every mom feels the same. My youngest is turning 2 this Friday, and I’m reeling. It just goes so damn fast! Thanks for the reminder to immerse ourselves in the now. Because it is soooo wonderful!April 21, 2014 – 11:23 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw, happy almost second birthday to your youngest, Nicole! It really does go SO fast. And yeah, the now can be pretty dang perfect.April 21, 2014 – 2:58 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - I miss every single age that my kids aren’t in while simultaneously loving the ages they are. Every age has wonderful bits to it. New things are learned, new personality traits emerge, more fun is possible. I do miss them being babies and toddlers, but I don’t want them to go back. I love the ages they are now. Really, I kinda just want to be a Duggar and have every age at the same time. 🙂
    Looks like Tucker had a lot of fun this Easter. Good for you, letting him wear Spider-man.April 21, 2014 – 12:56 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Perfect way to describe it, Christine, missing all of the ages while loving the ones they’re in because you’re right – each age has so much loveliness to it and you are much closer to being a Duggar and having multiple ages than I am! Just saying 😉April 21, 2014 – 3:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - That was sweet. Love his morning hair! – And that first picture where he’s obviously smelling the milk 😉April 21, 2014 – 3:12 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I love his morning hair, too, Kenya! Thanks and haha to the first picture.April 21, 2014 – 6:05 pmReplyCancel

  • thedoseofreality - Isn’t it amazing just how totally tuned in we were back in the first days/months? Love this post. Love that he had so much fun at the Easter egg hunt. And his bike is SUPER cool! :)-AshleyApril 22, 2014 – 11:00 amReplyCancel

  • Emily - I too am thankful for the moments, now more than ever. As for Tucker’s smile — adorable and sweet and precious — cherish moment of his beautiful grin!April 22, 2014 – 9:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Gary Sidley - To live in the moment sounds like excellent advice to me; we spend far too much time ruminating about the past, or worrying about the future. Your son looks adorable by the way – although you don’t need me to tell you that!April 23, 2014 – 8:46 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri - I’m glad Boo wasn’t the only one under dressed for Easter. My mom was horrified when we went to her Mass and Boo was in her jeans. The fact that do to my poor packing Abby and I were in flip flops didn’t help my case.

    Oh that look on Tucker’s face on the swing? LOVE IT. Just went back and looked at it (again).

    I adore that kids just get it: acceptance. that we don’t have to say Boo is XYZ they just ask if they want to swing. Simply awesome

    And I promise next time more than 12 hours notice that I will be within driving distance 🙂April 23, 2014 – 12:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - Hey, what he wants to wear he is going to wear. Kids have a sense of cool that must be upheld no matter how weird. My kid wears toques and sunglasses…together…even on cloudy days.
    And spider man is always cool.April 23, 2014 – 1:32 pmReplyCancel

Today’s Our Land was written by the lovely Kerith Stull, from Brielle and Me. I “met” Kerith a while ago and have to say that I love her outlook on life. She’s funny, smart, warm, and shares stories on her blog about her family, herself, and her daughter Brielle (more about her below). Kerith shares insights […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • that cynking feeling - Fabulous attitude, Kerith!April 16, 2014 – 8:22 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Brielle has a fabulous smile – it’s contagious! Thanks for sharing a little of your story, Kerith. I hope your book is a huge success!April 16, 2014 – 8:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - I think I’ve seen Kerith’s blog before.. I know it because I would never forget Brielle’s smile. For sure.
    I want to read so much more now.April 16, 2014 – 9:16 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I can see how Brielle’s smile is infectious just by seeing her in these beautiful photos…Thank you for sharing this. For those of us with our own parenting challenges, I know I have moments of “why me” or “why him?” but after reading this, I am inspired by your outlook and will strive to have less of those moments and remember your very insightful observation that transient moments of happiness are quite different from eternal joy.April 16, 2014 – 9:18 pmReplyCancel

    • Kerith Stull - I am so glad to hear this post helped inspire you!April 17, 2014 – 6:36 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Emily, I think it can be HARD to not say “why me?” or “why him?” because it’s such a mom/parent thing to want for our kids to not have struggles above and beyond what we consider to be the norm. No kid should ever get sick. Or hurt. But they do. And we do what we do, too. You are doing it. I promise.April 17, 2014 – 7:05 pmReplyCancel

      • Emily - Thanks Kristi – it makes me feel better that I’m not alone in having those moments AND that I have your unwavering support. 🙂April 17, 2014 – 7:15 pmReplyCancel

        • Kristi Campbell - Emily, you’re not alone, although our current situations are so different and I HATE the one you’re in. But. You are doing it. And you always have my unwavering support, and peace, and prayers, and well. You know. All of it.April 17, 2014 – 8:15 pmReplyCancel

          • Emily - xoxo!!April 17, 2014 – 8:45 pm

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Brielle’s smile is infectious and joyful, even in these pictures. You have a wonderful attitude and outlook. Thanks for sharing your story!April 16, 2014 – 10:32 pmReplyCancel

    • Kerith Stull - Some days it’s easier to keep that positive outlook than others. But then Brielle’s smile… and I find it again. 🙂April 17, 2014 – 6:38 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks for commenting Lisa. I agree that Kerith has a great attitude and the Brielle has a wonderful smile!April 17, 2014 – 7:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - I had a measured, considered comment brewing, but I just love her SMILE too much to not just say that – WOW!April 17, 2014 – 1:35 amReplyCancel

    • Kerith Stull - Haha… Well, maybe if you think of that measured, considered comment you’ll share. But, for now, thanks!April 17, 2014 – 6:39 amReplyCancel

      • Considerer - The measured and considered comment starts by thanking you for your frankness, Kerith, in sharing all this. It adds to the ‘voices’ of special needs mom bloggers I’ve read, and it helps to hear it.

        It makes me wonder if you need to be a particular brand of unselfish to a)parent at all, and b)parent a child with special needs (though the latter, I guess you never know until you have one, and it becomes a necessity), and whether or not it redeems the mourning for the ‘normal’ child who was expected (I never promised that the considered comment would be easy to take).

        Because for all Brielle’s awesomely gorgeous smile and the joy which just shines out of her, you still say it’s not easy (I know – parenting PERIOD isn’t easy, but I assume (perhaps wrongly) that it is particularly complex in the instance of having a child with special needs).

        So in the end, I guess I’m keen to know, is it worth it? Because given the genetic heritage which might get passed on (if I’m ever lucky enough to manage to hang onto a baby in the first place) I worry that it would end up being disabled somehow, or damaged, and whether or not it’s fair to even pass on. Or whether there’s a good reason we’re unable to have kids, and whether that’s right and appropriate, given the child we might generate.

        Sorry – quite a lot here, but I’ve been mulling.April 17, 2014 – 7:22 pmReplyCancel

        • Kristi Campbell - Lizzi.
          It is always worth it. Even when we grieve and worry and consider and feel bitter and horrible and life isn’t fair, and it’s HARD and it wasn’t supposed to be this HARD and it’s not FAIR and “why me?” and why why why and and and… (deep breath)…
          it is always worth it. There is nothing like it. You do NOT need to be a particular brand of unselfish. It comes with the job and trust me, I was selfish for 40 years before being blessed with Tucker.
          We do mourn the kids we’d dreamed of. We do. For me, how can I not mourn an almost 5 year old who can’t properly say his own name? How can I not feel bitter and sad and and and and and…
          and yet. it’s SO much more than worth it. It’s everything. It’s everything that matters. These kids, they are everything that matters. all of us, are everything that matters, and they are in the all of us.
          Nobody is damaged until the world damages them. And the world damages all of us by not accepting us. Our differences, our needs, our fears, and our import.

          That’s my 2cents. I’ll be interested to see how Kerith chimes in. But it’s so worth it. Every day.April 17, 2014 – 8:21 pmReplyCancel

          • Considerer - Thank you – that helps.

            And now, the slightly Bigger Badder ask…

            …what if you thought they probably might be born with something wrong with them, due to inheritance, and you had them in purpose, anyway. And they were.

            What if it was your own fault, rather than just an accident of birth or a virus or whatever it is which makes these things happen?

            What if you were concerned that your child probably would have some kind of additional needs at some point – would be genetically predisposed to be broken in some way…would you still have them?

            That’s my current sticking point.April 17, 2014 – 8:32 pm

        • Kristi Campbell - Lizzi – to your question on whether to have a child knowing something may be passed to him or her, I suppose that’s up to each individual.

          First, though, I think it’s important to say that none of us are perfect or remotely close to it. All of us have challenges – big and small and most of them are not our fault. If it were me, and I knew that Tucker may be more likely to have delays, I’d have still had him. If I knew he’d have other issues, I’d still have had him. He’s amazing, in his way, as are all of us. I don’t think anybody is genetically broken. Ever. But, that’s me. We’re all just different. Does that help at all?April 19, 2014 – 4:57 pmReplyCancel

          • Considerer - Helps a bit. Thank you 🙂

            I worry. With this stuff in particular. Could I hold down my child and stick needles in him multiple times a day, knowing it was all because of our choice that he was like it? Dunno.

            Tucker doesn’t need to be hurt to be helped.

            Ack.April 19, 2014 – 6:10 pm

    • Kristi Campbell - I want to hear the measured, considered comment too 😀April 17, 2014 – 7:06 pmReplyCancel

  • ALlie - Kerith,

    What a beautiful piece! I strive to have a similar attitude, and as the years progress, I’m happy that I managed to do so most of the time. My special needs child is 13, and I have to provide a similar level of care for him. You are doing an amazing job – it’s evident from the beautiful smile on your daughter’s face.April 17, 2014 – 7:04 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Allie, I think that some days, it’s easier than others to have a great attitude. It’s hard to watch our kids struggle with things that aren’t “fair” or expected, I think. And I agree that Kerith is doing a great job!April 17, 2014 – 7:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life - What an inspirational post and Brielle has a beautiful smile. I can’t pretend to know what you go through, Kerith, but I found your post touching. I think having children draw a level of love out of us that we never knew we had…we would do anything for them. Brielle sounds like an amazing kid.April 18, 2014 – 3:06 amReplyCancel

  • The Dose of Reality - What a beautiful post. Thank you for sharing Brielle and her gorgeous smile with us!!April 18, 2014 – 2:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Out One Ear - Linda Atwell - She does have an awesome outlook on life. And Brielle’s smile does light up a room…and a computer monitor too. Thanks so much for sharing this. I love how you introduce us all to people we may never encounter otherwise. You are all so lucky to have this thing called internet while your kids are young. There is just so much support. I’m a bit jealous that this wasn’t available when Lindsey was young. I felt so alone…but now I don’t.April 18, 2014 – 8:18 pmReplyCancel

  • marcia @ Menopausal Mother - This is so achingly beautiful. Brielle has a gorgeous smile—she is very fortunate to have such an amazing mother!April 18, 2014 – 8:41 pmReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - Life before her was transient….yes…yes…
    I had no idea that it affected so many women. I can tell you that you are a wonderful mom. I love that through your struggles, you’re able to find so much beauty, laughter, happiness, blessings…and that the both of you are helping so many others.
    Absolutely wonderful post.April 23, 2014 – 1:27 pmReplyCancel

While some goodbyes are more difficultly said than others, I’m of the opinion that all goodbyes are hard. At least, they are for me. Even in the uncomfortable situations in which I find myself counting the minutes until I’m able to leave, there’s always a final question in my mind that maybe, by leaving, I’ll […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Kenya G. Johnson - I skimmed! I had heart palpitations that you were saying goodbye to blogging with no warning 😉 Whew!April 15, 2014 – 11:09 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sorry Kenya! I didn’t even think about that. I promise, I’ll let you know if I’m thinking of quitting, okay?April 15, 2014 – 5:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I am terrible at good-byes too…especially when we are at a party. My husband always tells me to start saying good-bye about 30 minutes before he actually wants to leave because he knows I’m a pro at the “Jewish good-bye.” (which takes forever..). Anyway, great songs and I’ve always enjoyed reading these twisted mix tape posts…maybe when Jen restarts them in the fall, I’ll consider participating once in a while….April 15, 2014 – 11:15 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Ha, Emily! I know what you mean about the long “Jewish good-bye!” Love it. And I hope you will join in September, I’ve found some really cool new songs from participating in this one.April 15, 2014 – 5:24 pmReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - AW!! I know this has been a BIG deal and wonderful link up for so many bloggers!! Sad to see it go, but I’m sure it will come back with a MIGHTY PUNCH in the fall!!April 15, 2014 – 11:16 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’m sad to see it go too but I know it’s super time-consuming for Jen. Hope you’ll join us in September!April 15, 2014 – 6:06 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - thank you as well, for being one of the hostinae to bring the chance to hang out, musicistically-speaking.

    (shit, that Breakfast Club reference, think it might be a little too… historic? lol)

    (you realize that you have the initial wholesome appeal of Molly with the dark, who-the-hell-would-have-the-nerve-to-dare-you inner clarklike female of Ally)

    see you at the next detentionApril 15, 2014 – 11:56 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw thanks, Clark! And I love the Breakfast Club reference and that I’m both Molly and Ally! Molly’s name is Claire in it though right?
      I’ll bring the spit-wads, if you bring the straw!April 15, 2014 – 6:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Quickstepp Melissa - Damn….no you didn’t go The Dance on someone!? Awesome way to end it. Loved the American Pie dad singalong image!April 15, 2014 – 12:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - *blushing* I totally did The Dance on somebody! Thanks, Melissa!April 15, 2014 – 6:09 pmReplyCancel

      • Twindaddy - Sadly, I never have my helmet on at those times…April 15, 2014 – 9:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Kir - “The Dance” is one of my favorite songs and I just adore Garth. That song brings me to tears whenever I hear it (DAMN IT, this mascara!)

    and those texts were funny and adorable! Plus your original song was very well written.

    See you in the fall.April 15, 2014 – 1:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Oh no! I’ll miss Twisted Mix Tape!
    At least I have your goodbye song to keep me warm at night.
    And cute Tucker cameo!April 15, 2014 – 1:50 pmReplyCancel

  • Twindaddy - I HATE goodbyes….April 15, 2014 – 2:21 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Yeah, they fuckin’ suck. But I’ll bet it’s easy to hide your goodbye tears under, um, say, like, a helmet. Just saying.April 15, 2014 – 6:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - HAHAHAHA I absolutely love Tucker video bombing your goodbye song. Thanks for enjoying my mixed up tapes. BTW they are your fault for inviting me to join. You know what a screw up I am!!! See you on the flip side of the mix tape in the fallApril 15, 2014 – 2:33 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kerri, he rocked the video bomb, huh? I kept thinking maybe I should redo it, and almost stopped when he started hollering about the lights being off (God forbid ALL the lights are not on ALL the time).
      HAHA to it being my fault that you joined and messed up in the first place. Guess you have a point!April 15, 2014 – 6:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Allie - I am horrible at goodbyes when they are long distance. I love far form people I love and whenever we visit, I’m a total mess when it’s time to say goodbye. And then we he the really tough and sad goodbyes…April 15, 2014 – 5:15 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Allie,
      Me too! My family is all in Colorado and Montana, and my husband’s family is in Tennessee, and every single time (!) that I leave Denver, I bawl. Not in a pretty-looking sweet way really, either.April 15, 2014 – 6:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Angel The Alien - I tried to listen to the whole American Pie song, but after four hours I had to pause it! My favorite, of course, is the one you sang!April 15, 2014 – 6:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Angel no big deal on not listening to the whole thing! It’s a (even before I was aware of music and likely before you were born thing) about the deaths of rock and roll musicians Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J. P. They all died in a plane crash, which is why the whole bye bye thing. And YAY to the mine being your favorite of course 😀April 15, 2014 – 11:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Louise - Your duet with Tucker is awesome.

    Or you might be a duo. I’ll let Jen be the official last word on that nuance…. She appears to have expertise.

    In unrelated thoughts – could Jen pull of Marilyn for Halloween? Inquiring minds and all that…

    I love your send off. I love that you guys did this hop. I’m sad it’s taking a break. But I get why.

    I’m trying to think of it like high school – in the “Have a Great Summer!!!” yearbook signing kind of way.

    I love your two other musical choices, though sorry that The Dance brings mixed memories.

    As for American Pie – forgive me for not watching the whole video? I love the song; I love the album; I can sing bits of Vincent, so … pass?April 15, 2014 – 9:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Nobody ever has to listen to the entire American Pie. We all get it. It’s really only the best, on a road trip, in like maybe 1992, taken with my dad, and singing along. Because then? 8 minutes seems awesome. 😀
      I love that we did this hop, too, and I’m big sad. But also get it. And we will be back. I love the yearbook signing analysis. Here’s to an amazing summer and I know we’ll still connect this fall!! xoxoxo
      F@K yes Jen could do Marilyn for Halloween!!! GAH! 😀April 15, 2014 – 11:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Bianca @ Rant Rave Crave - That was the first time I actually listened to the lyrics of The Dance. Now I know why so many people told me I should listen to it when I had a really bad breakup. Also I like your little ditty there. Elton John would be proud 🙂April 15, 2014 – 9:48 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Really? Wow. It’s cheesy, but it’s GOOD for the breakups. Big good for the breakups. Thanks for liking my lame old ditty!!!April 15, 2014 – 11:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - This is so awesome, especially your own song! Hi Tucker! 🙂 I have fond memories of singing with my dad in the car to “Chantilly Lace.” “Oooh baby, that’s what I like!” LOL Music is so awesome.April 16, 2014 – 1:16 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Hehe! Love that you sang Chantilly Lace with your dad! And yeah, music really is so awesome. Tucker says hi 😀April 16, 2014 – 11:01 amReplyCancel

  • Nicole @ Work in Sweats Mama - Sometimes a song says it best. And, that’s the best graphic EVER! And goodbyes suck. Hard.April 16, 2014 – 10:19 amReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - I’m in the throes of goodbyes a lot lately what with my two going to uni across the country. While I’m a quiet mess on the way to the airport I keep it hidden. They are so aware of the impending separation that they don’t need soppy mama in the mix. I always say as we part “This just means it is closer to the time we see each other again.” Helps me – and I think it helps them. BUT. Goodbyes are hell. Yes. Hell. Each and every time.April 16, 2014 – 11:08 amReplyCancel

  • Cathy Harlow - You are so awesome!!!April 16, 2014 – 12:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - Oh I love you…despite your love of country. It’s ok. We all have those awkward stages. You’ve grown out of it right?
    That song made me smile. I needed that today 🙂April 16, 2014 – 7:38 pmReplyCancel

  • marcia @ Menopausal Mother - You did a great job with this, Kristi. I always hated saying goodbye too, because it DID feel like forever! Sadly, some of the people I said goodbye to I still haven’t seen in 30 years.April 18, 2014 – 8:35 pmReplyCancel

Last night, I was abducted by aliens while I slept.  One minute, I was peacefully slumbering in bed, and the next, I was standing outside, on the sidewalk, looking at two creatures that I knew were from outer space. Whether it was the glass of wine I’d had before bed or that they’d done some […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Janine Huldie - Love how you ended this and think you are right about just being thankful for the here and now, but also have to share I had my ex in high school stolen by my skanky ex-bff right before our senior prom. So, was totally shaking my head on that experience!!April 10, 2014 – 10:06 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Janine. I can’t believe your high school ex was stolen by your skanky ex-bff right before prom!! Ugh.April 12, 2014 – 9:40 amReplyCancel

  • Dana - Only you could make green alien men profound and heartwarming at the same time. I completely agree with you, Kristi – I wouldn’t change my yesterdays. Except for the one I wrote about for FTSF.April 10, 2014 – 10:14 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - HAHA to except the one you wrote for FTST Dana but come on – I’m actually jealous of your front door marker! Too funny!April 12, 2014 – 9:41 amReplyCancel

  • Chris at Hye Thyme Cafe - OK, I’ve set out cookies for Santa and carrots for the Easter Bunny – now I’ve gotta keep beer and Doritos on hand for the little green guys?!? Ummm, just in case … what flavor Doritos was it that they took???April 10, 2014 – 10:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Angel The Alien - Aliens are so smart, aren’t they? Did you tell them I said Hello? 😉April 10, 2014 – 10:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Don - Is it wrong that I was reading this and hoping that there’d be some probing? Yes? Okay then, that didn’t happen then, probably.

    Lol. How cool would it be to be our same selves only younger? Awesome is how!!!April 11, 2014 – 12:19 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Yes, it’s wrong that you were hoping for some probing, although not exactly surprising. It would be awesome to be our same selves but younger, yes. Very cool. Probingly cool. Ok that didn’t really work as well as it did in my head.April 12, 2014 – 9:50 amReplyCancel

  • Linda Atwell - Out One Ear - sweet! I was with you all the way. Sorry about the missing Doritos and Beer. 🙂April 11, 2014 – 1:31 amReplyCancel

  • Michelle - That was awesome! Love the drawings! If I could turn back time, I’d probably tell my junior high and high school self that things get better and I’d probably not have worked so ridiculously hard for companies that I didn’t own and in the end, didn’t care how much I put into my job. Then again, I probably would, because that’s just how I roll. I care too much sometimes.April 11, 2014 – 2:46 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I know what you mean, Michelle, about working. Before having Tucker, I used to work 70+ hours a week. And I liked it. What’s up with that?? And yeah, telling our junior high and high school selves that things get better would be a great one.April 12, 2014 – 10:00 amReplyCancel

  • Misty - hillarious as always! i’d so love to be your neighbor!April 11, 2014 – 5:53 amReplyCancel

  • Real Life Parenting - Those skanky, boyfriend-stealing bitches are everywhere! lol Funny, I actually started my post (but then completely changed it) with funny stuff I wish I could go back and say or do to past boyfriends. …. You and I had a similar wave-length on this one 🙂

    Loved your little green aliens! And that nosy neighbor? Pretty sure I lived down the street from her as a kid!April 11, 2014 – 7:44 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - How funny that you started with what you’d go back and say or do to ex boyfriends!! HAHA to the nosy neighbor! They’re everywhere!April 12, 2014 – 10:06 amReplyCancel

  • karen - LOVE the creativity babe! you are right, everything is as it shoudl be, one change could effect it all and life could be so terribly different.

    terrible aliens for taking your beer.April 11, 2014 – 8:04 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I know Karen. They suck for taking our beer. However, they were quite wise with their advice so maybe some beer and Doritos was a small price to pay.April 12, 2014 – 10:07 amReplyCancel

  • Jennifer Steck - There are some profound quotes in your post that really resonated with me, Kristi. “If there’s something I want to change, I need to look at the tomorrows instead of the yesterdays”. It was so much fun, but filled with incredible insights that I love. I am who I am because of what I’ve gone through. So are you. 🙂April 11, 2014 – 8:08 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Exactly, Jennifer! We are who we are because of what we’ve been through – the good and the not-so-good…April 12, 2014 – 10:08 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Golden Spoons - Aliens, humor, life lessons, and love all wrapped in to one post – only you, my friend!! I love what you did with this and totally agree – we need to focus on tomorrows, not yesterdays. I have my moments, but, in the end, wouldn’t want anything to change my right now.April 11, 2014 – 8:36 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Lisa! And here’s to focusing on the tomorrows and on deep breaths through the moments 😉April 12, 2014 – 10:08 amReplyCancel

  • Kat - You make a very good point. I’ve been through some shitty things in life but I’ve also had a lot of great things happen too. Getting rid of the crap might mean that the good might go to. Our experiences make us who we are and, for the most part, I pretty much like who I am.

    ps. Any aliens who like Doritos and beer are okay in my book 🙂April 11, 2014 – 9:05 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Exactly, Kat – it’s too scary to get rid of the crap because the good is in there too. Hehe to aliens who like Doritos and beer. At least they have great taste!!April 12, 2014 – 10:10 amReplyCancel

  • Echo - This was so much fun to read and I love the illustrations! I probably would have offered them Doritos too!April 11, 2014 – 9:08 amReplyCancel

  • Twindaddy - I’d love to be 10 years younger too!April 11, 2014 – 9:33 amReplyCancel

  • Tarana - We really are who we are because of every little moment in our lives. Those aliens were right! Even if we were to change the slightest thing about our past, we might turn into completely different people.April 11, 2014 – 9:43 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - I like your take on it! I like your Metallica shirt.
    I’d like to come to the playground with you, wearing clean clothes, and being oddly buff, and ignore other moms. Can I?April 11, 2014 – 10:57 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Tamara, I’d LOVE to have you come to the playground with me anytime. Even if you’re not wearing clean clothes 😉April 12, 2014 – 10:26 amReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - I really loved the sentiment here. It’s something I think about often. There are a couple of things I would definitely change but like you I wonder where that would leave me. Thanks for the profound thoughts and funny drawings today!April 11, 2014 – 11:52 amReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - Okay- so did you really have this dream? Or are you that creative and witty and brilliant to come up with this one? SO adorable, funny and as always powerful.

    I can’t stop laughing at your neighbor with the binoculars!!! “Harold!!”- Omygosh HILARIOUS!!!!!

    I love this message- ultimately, every single piece of who we are and how our lives unfold is critical and worthy of keeping.

    Oh yes indeed.April 11, 2014 – 12:03 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Chris, I did not actually have this dream – but I like that you think it was creative and brilliant even. I was just trying to figure out a way to make the concept of going back in time more fun. And haha to the neighbor. xo and thanks so much, my lovely friend!April 12, 2014 – 10:29 amReplyCancel

  • Kelly L McKenzie - I’m loving how so far most of the FSTF posts are coming up with the same conclusion – we are today the sum total of our past experiences. So very true. At the same time I am stunned at your revelation about the stock options buyout offer. How could they think anyone would leap at that? Stunning.April 11, 2014 – 12:10 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kelly – I really like how so many of us decided that we wouldn’t change anything either! And yeah, the stock options thing – sadly, I know people at other companies who did choose to buy theirs and lost their money. Of course, there were always the stories out there about the one guy who invested $5K and made $100K to make us all at least think about it. Glad I didn’t though, I’d still be bitter!April 12, 2014 – 10:35 amReplyCancel

  • Nicole @ Work in Sweats Mama - There are definitely things I look back on and wish I’d had the wisdom and experience to know then what I know now. But, I’ve come to the same conclusion as you. I don’t think I’d really change a damn thing because every moment, mistake, and decision has led me to where I am today. And I wouldn’t trade my husband, my daughters, my family, or my friends for the world.April 11, 2014 – 12:28 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Nicole, I’m so with you on not trading anyone in my life for the world – and all of our experiences helped to make us who we are today. Good and bad and in between.April 12, 2014 – 11:12 amReplyCancel

  • Barb Taub - This was so funny. And touching. And is it weird that I identify with the aliens? It reminds me of the way that I know — really know– what’s best for my kids. And we all agree that I know. Only difference is that they don’t come to see my wisdom (as you did with the aliens) and so they go off and do their own thing anyway. And they’re usually right. I guess that makes me the neighbor instead of the aliens.

    Well, crap.April 11, 2014 – 12:57 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Barb, it’s not weird at all (ok maybe just a little bit but I’m okay with weird) that you identify with the aliens. Was it the Doritos or the beer that helped? 😉
      HAHA to being the neighbor instead of the aliens. I vote that you get to be the aliens instead of the neighbor!April 12, 2014 – 11:14 amReplyCancel

  • Rachel - Well, you know I would love to be 10 years younger. It’s fun to think about (George and I were JUST talking about this last night) but you are right. We are exactly where we are supposed to be. As always, beautiful takeaway and kick-ass drawings, Kristi!April 11, 2014 – 1:14 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - How weird that you guys were just talking about this, Rachel! And yeah, I do believe we are where we are supposed to be. Exactly where. Old and all.April 12, 2014 – 11:15 amReplyCancel

  • That girl ryan - AH! teach me how to draw like this? I love it, especially the aliens, i want to take them home.

    This story could honestly be written in a child’s book. It’s full of morals and good teachings…almost bible like. You could call it, “Ninee’s New Testament”.

    You could probably even take your stock options and use it for publishing. And of course I will be your manager and book you on the Oprah show.

    Yes, this is a great idea, call me when your ready.

    All giggles aside, loved this. The pictures just made it too lol.April 11, 2014 – 2:10 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Girl Ryan, I’d LOVE to teach you!! And I like the aliens too. I wish they were real, I like them so much. I’d even buy extra beer and Doritos. And I freaking LOVE “Ninee’s New Testament” and thanks for getting me on Oprah. That’ll be awesome fun. Don will be so jealous because we’ll be famous. I’ll get to work on it!April 12, 2014 – 11:17 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Love it when you have illustrations! For a moment I took ten years off my life to be here just as it is but then I realized the last ten years have really been so much more of a learning experience than the first 33! Wow huh? Oh and I would have been so pissed to date the same boy for all of senior year securing him for the prom just to have a skank steal him. So did you get another date?April 11, 2014 – 2:15 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Kenya! And it’s true that we learn more during the “older” years, isn’t it? What’s up with that? And yeah, that dumb boy sucked for dumping me right before prom. For a skanky freshman too! I didn’t get another date, and missed it out of spite which, in hindsight was sortof dumb…sigh.April 12, 2014 – 3:37 pmReplyCancel

  • Jodi Flaherty - Well Since I just visit Don of All Trades, I think he may have your beer & doritos…..

    Kidding, aside this is an awesome #FTSF Loved your illustrations!April 11, 2014 – 3:10 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Hey you’re right! I’ll bet sneaky Don took the beer and Doritos. I knew I heard something when I was outside talking to the aliens. And thanks!April 12, 2014 – 3:43 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - “…it is our experiences that make us who we are. That changing a single one creates a ripple throughout time and space, and that, in the end, it’s simply much too risky to change anything.

    way to Time Travel buzzkill, yo

    lol, but I agree with you (yeah, how like is that?)April 11, 2014 – 3:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Bianca @ Rant Rave Crave - Those are some cute aliens! I know changing the past would affect the future & makes us who we are today. However, I do have to agree with you when you were thinking the playground mamas could suck it. 😉April 11, 2014 – 5:55 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Love that you get how sucky some of those playground mamas can be. Although, bummer.April 12, 2014 – 3:50 pmReplyCancel

  • Lizzy - Muddle-Headed Mamma - Loving those aliens, Kristi, and Harold’s mum too! You’re such a great artist. Fantastic post – a very good reminder that our tomorrows are more important than our yesterdays 🙂 I’m lucky in that none of the mothers in the playground near where I live are particularly buff or glowing or clean clothed (self included!) xxxApril 11, 2014 – 9:05 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw, thanks, Lizzy! “Artist” is probably a stretch but they’re fun to do. Glad to hear that the mothers at your playground are normal and messy!! 😀April 12, 2014 – 3:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - It is fun to toss the idea around a little…the thought of changing something in the past? But there’s that whole time/space continuum thing that would change everything else, including the really, really good stuff! I love this and I really love the fact that drawing Kristi is wearing a Metallica tee! XXApril 12, 2014 – 7:11 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sandy, it IS fun to toss the idea around about changing the past, being younger, and all of that. But you’re right, in the end, it’s just way too scary to change anything. Also? I love that drawing Kristi is wearing Metallica, too 😀April 12, 2014 – 11:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - You know that game “Draw Something/This”? I should not be allowed to play that game. But you? You’d nail it.
    I completely agree with you in that our experiences shaped us. I do however wish that I could go back in time and call in sick the day that stupid asshole kid who thought it wasn’t cool to use his inhaler at school so he had a massive asthma attack and he stopped breathing and then I picked his fat ass up and then fucked my back up.
    Yup, someone else could be the hero. Not even lying about that.April 13, 2014 – 11:33 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Kim, I used to be completely addicted to Draw Something! I used to take screen shots on my phone of my favorites and save them. I think I got bored with it or something though as I stopped playing like a year ago. Maybe time to get re-addicted because it’s much healthier than that stupid bastard Candy Crush.
      Ugh, I didn’t know that’s how you fucked up your back – I don’t blame you at all for wanting to change that one!April 13, 2014 – 4:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Michelle AKA Dribbles and Grits - I feel the same way. There’s a lot of things in my past I didn’t like and things in my present I don’t like that I could change going back in time, but I’d be afraid I’d mess things up even more. I’m better off being back in time already for the future if that makes sense. If not, try more wine. If that doesn’t work, it probably doesn’t make sense.April 13, 2014 – 5:55 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Yes, it totally makes sense to go back in time already for the future! Mmm wine. Yummy yummy wine.April 14, 2014 – 3:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Mytwicebakedpotato - I wish that I could go back and tell my younger self…
    – you aren’t pretty when you drink too much and throw up by train tracks
    – not everyone will like you and that’s okay
    – it’s okay to be different

    Thank you for this 😉April 13, 2014 – 10:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Lana - Hi Kristi- I’m so glad I found your site. My sister has a 15 year old on the autism spectrum – I will be forwarding this on to her. I just started blogging and I’m having so much fun finding other moms in blogland. This post made me laugh AND think, which means it was great! Have a great week!April 14, 2014 – 1:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Hi Lana,
      Thanks so much for finding it and for passing it along to your sister. I’m so glad you’re enjoying finding people in blogland – it’s really an amazing thing. I have made so many great friends and really look forward to getting to know you, too! Thanks again!April 14, 2014 – 4:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Meredith - This is so awesome. I love the drawings too!! It’s so true that our life experiences are such an intricate part of who we ultimately are. You probably couldn’t have been the mom to Tucker that you are now if you didn’t have those extra 10 years under your belt either. Although, having a younger body than the other moms at the playground sounds SUPER awesome.September 10, 2014 – 3:39 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks so much sweets! Yeah, the younger body sounds amazing… but also? To go back means giving up experiences right? 🙂September 11, 2014 – 1:14 amReplyCancel

  • Jana - “If there’s something I want to change, that I need to look at the tomorrows rather than the yesterdays.” SO true! I need to start doing that myself (although I wouldn’t mind being ten years younger!)September 11, 2014 – 10:54 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I so would not mind being 10 years younger either, Jana!!! But yeah, sadly, we have to look at the tomorrows and not the yesterdays…October 23, 2014 – 11:20 pmReplyCancel

Today’s Our Land was authored by a woman known on the interwebs as Cynk (Cyn K – clever, right?). While I honestly can’t remember where we found one another (Twisted Mixed Tape, maybe?), I’m so glad that we did. She (like me!) assumed she’d be “forever childless,” and, after becoming a mother and seeing how […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • that cynking feeling - Thank you so much for letting me join the ranks of Our Land contributors. I’m honored to be included in this diverse collection of voices.April 9, 2014 – 9:56 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thank you so much for sharing your story in Our Land. I love that your husband’s family was so open and accepting of Philip. I hope the whole world reads your words and realizes that it’s time to accept autism. You rock!April 9, 2014 – 11:04 amReplyCancel

  • Dana - I remember enough about mythology to know that Athena is the goddess of wisdom. Peter’s cousin is aptly named; she’s clearly a wise woman who knows what (or who) is really of value. Thank you for sharing your story, Cyn!April 9, 2014 – 10:15 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Dana and awesome connection to Athena, the goddess of wisdom. Here’s to a bunch of people realizing who is of value!April 9, 2014 – 11:05 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri - Oh my, I am that parent. The one that is so afraid of my child breaking something. But in truth I am that way with my older child as well, wanting her to be polite, respectful and a good person when it comes to other persons and things. BUT I think the difference is with Abby I can expect her to behave and Boo? Well, I just hope she does.

    I think it is freaking awesome that the aunt/cousin put you at ease. I always tell people when they visit we have nothing unbreakable. I am now going to add except our children cause the Husband can defend himself 🙂

    Oh and by the way…I always pronounced you “sink” oops I much prefer Sin (o)k(ay) 🙂April 9, 2014 – 11:25 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I am too, Kerri. It’s the worst at my dad’s because they have this gigantic mirror on the wall that’s heavy as *%$# and of course Tucker is fascinated by it. Completely. He actually (knock on wood) hasn’t really broken anything though. I think it’s awesome that Aunt Athena put her to ease as well and I’ve always thought of Cyn as pronounced as “sink” too but I think that makes sense because her blog is really “that sinking feeling” just spelled cooler!April 9, 2014 – 12:10 pmReplyCancel

    • that cynking feeling - You can call me sink anytime.April 9, 2014 – 12:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I like that Aunt Athena…a lot.:)April 9, 2014 – 11:59 amReplyCancel

  • Sarah - I love when a preconceived notion (or worry) turns out to be wrong in the best way possible. Isn’t it wonderful when you realize this person you are related to, and that you love, is also a genuinely wonderful person?April 9, 2014 – 1:34 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sarah, YES! I love when a worry becomes a benefit and when family surprises us by being even more awesome.April 9, 2014 – 8:25 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - I am totally that parent, too and just so thankful for people like Athena, because I always worry that my kids will break something when I go to a new place with them. So truly is nice when I am somewhere and don’t have to have these types of worries.April 9, 2014 – 1:41 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Janine, you’re right. It truly IS wonderful and nice when we don’t have these worries! I wish they were more common 🙂April 9, 2014 – 10:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Such a sweet story and a reminder about how we can be so quick to judge and slap labels on other parents without knowing the full story. Thanks for the reminder and for sharing your story!April 9, 2014 – 1:59 pmReplyCancel

  • don - Hooray, a cyn k siting on Our Land! Lol. I love me some Philip stories. He and Tucker would be great running buddies.

    I think we all worry (well, I don’t, but I thin all normal parents do) about how their kids are going to behave in a new place and around new people. They’re very unpredictable little buggers, aren’t they?April 9, 2014 – 2:17 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Dude Philip and Tucker would make awesome running buddies. With you as their coach of course. Maybe. Hm. Something like that. And yeah, to the whole thing.April 9, 2014 – 10:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Anita Davis Sullivan - There’s nothing breakable but children… how wise. xoxoApril 9, 2014 – 3:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Twindaddy - I guess this makes me a helicopter parent. I feel like I need to be there to stop Baby C from sticking the next lose object he finds in his mouth. Sigh…April 9, 2014 – 3:57 pmReplyCancel

    • that cynking feeling - Twindaddy-this week alone I’ve had to say, “don’t bite the book,” “why are you chewing that?” and “stop eating the dirt.”April 9, 2014 – 9:56 pmReplyCancel

      • Twindaddy - You win.April 10, 2014 – 10:22 amReplyCancel

        • that cynking feeling - Wasn’t trying to make it a competition. Only said that to let you know I understand.April 10, 2014 – 2:13 pmReplyCancel

          • Twindaddy - Oh, I know. That was an attempt to be funny. Evidently I failed. I’ll try harder next time.April 10, 2014 – 2:26 pm

    • Kristi Campbell - I guess we’re all helicopter parents, in one way or another?April 9, 2014 – 11:10 pmReplyCancel

      • Twindaddy - So it seems.April 10, 2014 – 10:22 amReplyCancel

  • Gary Sidley - Touching post (no pun intended!). I know from personal experience how difficult it is to relax when my kids were around other people,or in someone’s house. I guess that discomfort is magnified many times for kids with special needs.April 10, 2014 – 6:50 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - It really is difficult to relax with kids in other people’s houses with young children. When those kids don’t understand boundaries and have issues, it definitely makes it more worrisome. Thanks, Gary.April 10, 2014 – 10:59 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Whoa, I got chills from that quote! And Athena is the best name ever. It’s the name of my new puppy, after The Who song, and I do value her more than things..which is good..because she likes to destroy things.
    Anyway, a beautiful story.April 10, 2014 – 9:31 amReplyCancel

  • Michelle - There’s nothing breakable in this house except my children and my husband. I LOVE that. Really, what else is important. I have to say I used to worry about “stuff”…no more. I just don’t care anymore. “Stuff” is a distraction from life. This was beautiful! And thanks for helping me out on twitter the other day…I found the answer!!April 10, 2014 – 9:51 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I used to worry about my stuff too, Michelle, but you’re right – it’s just stuff. And a distraction from life. Thanks, Michelle!!April 10, 2014 – 11:01 amReplyCancel

  • K - LOVE this post. So often it feels as though others don’t understand, when in reality there are so many amazing people in this world, and I think oftentimes people “get it” more than we realize. (: My to-do list is exploding but I’m so glad I took a moment to stop by tonight because this is just what I needed. Thanks for sharing!April 10, 2014 – 7:06 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, K! I think people get it when they think about it but not always at the time ya know? Except this wonderful Athena got it!April 11, 2014 – 5:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - Oh, how you must have loved Athena! Good for her and how wonderful that must have been for you. You are so right. More people like that her are needed in this world. I know her words make me want to be better at it all. Great, great, great post!April 11, 2014 – 9:26 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I agree that more people are needed like Athena, who realize that only people are truly breakable.April 11, 2014 – 5:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - When I was a special education teacher, field trips always had me so on-edge. When we were in familiar places, I could anticipate the things that were not going to go as “expected” for my kids. The same wasn’t true in new environments. One time, we went to the Museum of Modern Art, and one of my kids decided he wanted to step on one of the sculptures. When I pulled him away, he screamed and his voice reverberated against the walls of the gallery. I think people thought I was hurting him! In these situations, you do just want empathy. You want people to see the child like you do, as unique and curious and, sometimes, needing guidance.April 11, 2014 – 1:24 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Rachel,
      I know what you mean about wishing that we just want empathy. All of us deserve empathy as does every child!April 11, 2014 – 5:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - That WAS awesome. I was feeling tense when you guys changed houses. I love Athena’s words, “Nothing breakable … except my children.” Glad she made you relax Cyn, loved this post.April 11, 2014 – 7:19 pmReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - I don’t think that you should have the label of “helicopter mom” since you are protecting your son from harm. The “helicopter moms” at my son’s school drive me batty. Sure, I don’t know them and I shouldn’t judge but hell, if the kid’s tights are looking like they are sagging a bit or if their hair starts to unravel out of a pony tail, so be it. Don’t yell for them to leave the school yard because you notice it. Those kids get so embarrassed that their moms hover like that. Those things don’t matter, whereas safety does.April 13, 2014 – 11:28 amReplyCancel

    • that cynking feeling - It’s the difference between keeping close to protect our children and hovering to control them, that’s for sure.April 15, 2014 – 4:19 pmReplyCancel

I’m thankful for other people’s stories. Last night, I had the opportunity to participate in the Listen To Your Mother DC Show rehearsal. Honestly, I wasn’t feeling all that great when I left for it. I was tired, having dealt with my son’s waking up at 1:30am and standing over me whispering “Mommy?” after I’d […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Dana - You already know how I feel, but reading this got me even more excited for the show. When I’m feeling like my writing isn’t good enough, I will remind myself if what you said here. It’s my story to tell, and it’s important. It matters. And in thankful that you always help remember that.April 7, 2014 – 7:00 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I know, Dana – I get more and more excited for the show, too! It’s going to be great. Your writing is always good enough. It matters. Thanks mucho friend. I hope I’ll be seeing you at the Baltimore show!!April 7, 2014 – 6:29 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - there is something about real reality that has a certain quality…not affecting the experience but definitely affecting the …energy/excitement/something-osity of event.
    (the old Latinians had an expression, sine qua non which I think of when trying to reconcile the real world with the ‘sphere. while certainly obvious on one level, the fact is, for many of us, the real world is being made more… realer (at least to the extent of variety and range) by virtue of the virtual world.

    ya know?April 7, 2014 – 7:08 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - YES! The real world was totally made more real for me by virtue of itself. I know.April 7, 2014 – 6:37 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - Oh Kristi, I am so excited for you! You are a perfect person for this show. (I can say this, since I have seen you “in person” on a vidchat. I can tell, you are a great in person storyteller.)
    And after this raving review, I shall have to look into getting tickets to the show in Indianapolis. I love stories, both the telling of and the listening to.April 7, 2014 – 7:30 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Christine, you really should go to the show near you and audition next year. I honestly did not realize how amazing it’s going to be until listening to these amazing women share really powerful stories. I felt unworthy of course but am so happy to be able to participate in it!April 7, 2014 – 6:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - I’m glad you had a good time. Love your end – our stories matter as do we.

    And isn’t it something how stressed out we can get thinking nobody can fill our shoes in our routine and then it goes just fine 😉April 7, 2014 – 7:39 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - So true, Kenya, thinking “no way will husband be able to xyz” and then it’s fine! Ha. And yes, our stories are important, and ours, and they should be shared and documented. I know Christopher’s children will one day cherish his chronicles and your writing. It’s important!April 7, 2014 – 6:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - I love that you are getting this chance and sounds like you had a great time. On a side note, my girls still look for me to put them to bed, too and I always feel guilty if I have to be out of the house at bedtime for them and rarely am, but still could relate to that.April 7, 2014 – 7:48 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Aw, love the girls still want you to help them get to bed – it’s a tradition really. And thanks, Janine. I’m really getting excited about the show.April 7, 2014 – 6:41 pmReplyCancel

  • Misty @ West KY Mom - do people ever complain about your use of swear words? i, for one, find swear words to be a very good means of communication. when someone drops the f-bomb, buddy, you know she’s serious!

    Listen to Your Mother sounds like an awesome experience. if it ends up on youtube, please post a link! and kuddos for having the guts to get up and speak in front of a group! are you going to share with us the story you’re telling for the event??? i’m all ears!

    oh, and i started a new blog. felt like the other one should be mostly about “family” stuff. the new one is my attempt to share what our school experiences are like. did i mention that i’m really starting to dislike public school?April 7, 2014 – 9:18 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’ve only had a couple of people complain about the swear words on here, and I’m always a little surprised because I was raised in a house that swore, really. People at work swear, I swear but also don’t want my son to so do watch my language around him.
      And it will be posted on YouTube, so I’ll definitely share the link. We are supposed to keep our stories that we’re telling a secret but it has to do with Tucker 😉
      I love your new blog, Misty!! It’s great! Ugh to starting to dislike public school. I’m really nervous about kindergarten next year already, and have already considered what to do if it doesn’t work out well. Hope you can get things to where they work better for P.April 7, 2014 – 6:45 pmReplyCancel

      • Misty @ West KY Mom - the folks in her school building are great, i don’t always feel like we are on the same page, but it’s a great bunch of people. our schooling options are pretty limited here, so home school is pretty much our only other option. sad, but true. can’t wait to see the performance!April 8, 2014 – 7:08 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - I’m so with you on the “f” word. Not sure why I didn’t write it out there, though.
    I’m so thankful for other people’s stories, and other people’s stories of motherhood. I know for a fact it helped shape me into a blogger.April 7, 2014 – 10:25 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - I’m so thankful for other people’s stories, and other people’s motherhood, too! And I love that you put it that way, Tamara!April 7, 2014 – 7:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Callie Feyen - I loved reading this, Kristi. And I LOVED meeting you and listening to your story along with the rest of the cast. It was a special evening.
    PS- Those cartoons at the beginning of this post made me laugh so hard I cried a little bit. 🙂April 7, 2014 – 1:28 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Callie. I loved meeting you too and LOVED your reading as well. You’re right that it was a special evening! haha to laughing until we cry 😉April 7, 2014 – 7:22 pmReplyCancel

  • SArah - Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck. You’re definitely not the only one! Such emotional relief on one simple word.April 7, 2014 – 1:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - What a worthy thing to be thankful for, other people’s stories.

    Also, LTYM can bring other synchronicities and reconnections 🙂

    I’ll be cheering for you from out here, and waiting eagerly to see the video when it comes out.April 7, 2014 – 3:21 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Lori and you’re right that the the lovely YOU synchronicity and reconnection from last year was amazing. I’m going to freak out if another CFU person comes out from this years 😉April 7, 2014 – 7:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Lanaya | Raising Reagan - Wait .. what? Me time at 1am isn’t acceptable? LOL!
    Isn’t it crazy? Rey has gone through this phase as of late to be up every fucking night at around 1:30am. Of course, Brian is through his REM pattern which makes me want to stab him even more because I have to get out of bed and deal with Rey. Oh the craziness!!!
    I just love you mama!

    xoxo
    LanayaApril 7, 2014 – 7:15 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Crap, Lanaya, sorry to hear about Rey’s 1:30am BS and yes, 1am ME TIME rocks. Until the kid comes around at 1:30 and the hubs is snoring…sigh…
      Love you back, you little swearing sailor, you!April 7, 2014 – 7:36 pmReplyCancel

  • KeAnne - Welcome to the LTYM family! I’ve been reading you for a while, but this is my first time commenting. This is my second year co-producing the show in NC, and it has been a wonderful, life-changing experience. I look forward to seeing your show video!April 7, 2014 – 7:16 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - KeAnne, thank you so much. I can’t begin to express how amazingly powerful Saturday night’s read-through was, but as a producer, you must already know what I’m just discovering. I can’t wait to see all of the shows! What an amazing idea and concept.April 7, 2014 – 7:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Parenting Tips - I love reading other stories from other people’s blogs. It helps me realize that we all struggle in one area or another, I can possible brighten someone’s day with a simple comment or virtual hug, or can related to their story and give them words of encouragement.

    I too have been in your situation where I had just drifted off to sleep only to hear my youngest son crying because he was having a bad dream or wanted his mama. I am usually the one to get up no matter how much sleep or lack of sleep that I get because I stay home with him during the day.April 7, 2014 – 7:22 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - We really do all struggle in one way or another, and we share more commonality than differences, I think. The thing is, sometimes, I think bloggers get caught in thinking they need “niches” and while that’s true to an extent, it’s also meaningless because it’s all of our stories – the similar ones, and the different ones – that really bring us together in our uniqueness, in my opinion. Thanks so much for the visit and the comment!April 7, 2014 – 7:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - Everyone has a story, and we can all learn from the stories of others. It sounds like you had a really great time, and I’m glad that things went well at home in your absence.April 8, 2014 – 12:13 amReplyCancel

  • karen - Great post and so true…knowing you are not alone, that other mothers are just like you…even if all our kids are different…we are pretty much the same. We love our kids, but need time for ourselves, we need to be connected and feelApril 8, 2014 – 9:55 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - My biggest hope on the planet is that people realize that us mamas are more similar than different. Thanks, Karen, big thanks. We do need time, to connect, and to remember that we’re not alone. None of us. Ever.April 8, 2014 – 10:26 pmReplyCancel

  • zoe - weren’t you the one who was so worried they might not want you to swear at this thing? Just Answer f*** yeah.April 8, 2014 – 5:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Lady Lilith - I also really enjoy the community aspect of blogging. I have made so many wonderful friends and contacts.April 9, 2014 – 12:22 amReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - It’s incredible right? You can read the stories, but to hear them from the mouths behind the actual words, you can feel them.
    It’s amazing.April 9, 2014 – 7:37 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - YES YES YES, exactly what you said. I can’t wait to see yours on You Tube. I wish I lived close enough to come see your performance live because you’re going to be amazing.April 9, 2014 – 10:01 amReplyCancel

  • Rachel - I’m so glad you had fun, Kristi! And you got to have a happy ending to this story.April 11, 2014 – 1:27 pmReplyCancel

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