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

When I was in third grade, my brother had to miss school one day to get a mole removed. While sitting in class, with my desk next to the teacher’s, positioned away from all the other kids, I was called into the main office. I got to the office, and saw my dad. He was […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Kenya G. Johnson - LOL! Does your brother remember that? My brother was much older when he let me practice cutting his hair with the clipper. I buzzed too close in one spot. I touched up that spot with black eyeliner for a few days until it grew back in.

    So sweet your dad got you out of school for Star Wars.December 5, 2013 – 10:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kenya,
    I’m not sure if he remembers remembers or has remembered because I told him the story! hahaha to the eyeliner!!!! Brilliant!!!!December 5, 2013 – 10:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - I totally dressed my brother up as Smurfette. I was only 8 years old and he 2 years old. I just wanted a sister and thought my Halloween costume would do. Those pictures have since disappeared and surely been burned. I guess I can’t blame him!! But seriously loved both of your memories and had me totally smiling from ear to ear reading!! 🙂December 5, 2013 – 10:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Janine,
    HAHAHA!!! Love that you dressed him as a Smurphette!!!December 5, 2013 – 10:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Jean - You had an isolated desk!?! Whoa. That’s trouble. Also, I love that your dad took you out of school for that. Do you think we’d get away with it now? I feel like my son would rat me out the second he got back to school the next day.December 5, 2013 – 10:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Jean.
    YUP! What a dick teacher, huh!? I love that my dad did it too n I’m willing to risk it!December 5, 2013 – 10:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Your dad was totally cool – what an awesome memory. I have a sister so I didn’t have to be as creative when dressing her up. But I have some photos of my son in barrettes and plastic high heels that are just priceless, thanks to his big sister. She even painted his fingernails – but just one red one on each hand.December 5, 2013 – 10:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Dana,
    Ha, awesome that your daughter did the same1 I love it!!!December 5, 2013 – 10:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly McKenzie - Hahahaha! Michelle – of course! So clever.
    Yes – what’s with the curling iron? I torched my daughter’s scalp when she wanted her poker straight hair to be curly for her grad pic!
    Love the fact that your dad came and got you from school to take you to Star Wars.
    Who does that?December 5, 2013 – 10:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Mytwicebakedpotato - I love the Star Wars story !! It was a great reminder that sometimes you have to break the rules and create great memories 🙂December 5, 2013 – 11:01 pmReplyCancel

  • JenKehl - My Skewed View - I still remember the day I saw Star Wars, waiting in that long line! I was 8 and my sister was 5! Funnily enough my 8yo could only handle it this year, and my 5yo niece would run screaming from all that shooting these days.
    Ah the olden days when people could leave their kids in running cars. Don’t tell anyone but I did that today when I ran into the UPS store. Thank goodness I didn’t get arrested.
    ALSO LOL poor Michelle is gone, poor MIchelle is gone….December 5, 2013 – 11:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kelly,
    I miss Michelle!!! I love the fact that my dad did that, too!!!
    —MY TBP!
    I love Star Wars, too!!!
    —
    Jen,
    I won’t tell anyone but 8 and self-sufficient is different from me doing it, so maybe I’m just jealous!!!December 5, 2013 – 11:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - I love that you dressed up your brother! How funny!

    Despite the “taboo” of taking you out of school to see Star Wars, what a great memory you now have. Life’s too short to get hung up on anything. I say kudos to your dad!December 5, 2013 – 11:36 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Lisa,I say kudos to my dad, too!!!December 5, 2013 – 11:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Wow, you were separated from the class! You must have been BAD. I, too, love that memory of your dad taking join out of school to see a movie. What a wonderful treat!December 5, 2013 – 11:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Sarah,
    I just talked too much… or well, was BAD 🙁December 5, 2013 – 11:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate Hall - That’s awesome that your dad did that and it’s HILARIOUS (but painful) that you were curling your little brother’s hair and parading him around as your sister. SOO funny!December 6, 2013 – 12:38 amReplyCancel

  • karen - wow…what a cool thing your dad tried to do…though the part where you thought something hadppened to your brother wasn’t so cool.

    Oh no…at least you had a sister for a short time, I always wanted a brother.December 6, 2013 – 5:38 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kate,
    I think it was awesome of my dads, too and yeah…I wanted a sister…
    —
    Karen,
    How funny that you always wanted a brother. I guess all little kids want what they don’t have.December 6, 2013 – 9:05 amReplyCancel

  • Chris at Hye Thyme Cafe - Love it! The movie reminds me of the time I was in my jammies ready for bed – with a broken leg and cast up to my hip, when my Dad told me we were going out. He scooped me up, drove around the corner to pick up my best friend (we only dressed up her cat when we were little) – also in her jammies, and took us to a drive-in. Although I can’t actually remember the movie itself now, I remember that it was Bedknobs and Broomsticks with Angela Lansbury. And no, I can’t believe you had a curling iron at 8 either! 😉December 6, 2013 – 9:13 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Awed at the awesomeness of your dad! Awed at the hilarity of you!!December 6, 2013 – 9:30 amReplyCancel

  • donofalltrades - Hahaha, Kristi, you’re not right in the head!

    We saw Star Wars at the drive in and it fucking ruled!!!

    Do they still have drive ins? Damn, now I’m going to write a quick FTSF post. You’ve inspired me, girl!December 6, 2013 – 9:36 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Chris,
    I love that your dad did something similar and took you and your best friend to the drive-in in your jammies!! Also a cat let you dress it up? Really?? Impressed!
    —
    Tamara,
    Awed by you!December 6, 2013 – 9:54 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Don,
    YAYYY that you’re going to play and that it was my fab childhood that inspired you. I have no idea whether drive-ins still exist but they totally rocked. Agree that it is possible I’m not right in the head!!December 6, 2013 – 9:56 amReplyCancel

  • Louise - Lol! I suspect being dressed up as a girl is a younger brother right of passage. I even have photos of when I did it to my little brother because I’d also been given a camera for Christmas that year 😉

    As for getting out of school to see Star Wars, can your dad be my hero too? What a great treat – and a fabulous memory!December 6, 2013 – 9:58 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Wow! your dad is hero for that! What a great memory. I remember seeing Star Wars with my family, but not in the middle of a school day. 🙂December 6, 2013 – 10:16 amReplyCancel

  • Lizzy - Muddle-Headed Mamma - HAHA that’s gold, your brother and your dad both deserve some sort of reward I think. I always wished I had a younger brother, but it’s probably just as well that I didn’t coz I’m sure he would have suffered a similar fate!December 6, 2013 – 10:21 amReplyCancel

  • Emily - I love both of those…my husband once took Little Dude out of camp early to go to a Yankees game and he still talks about that all the time. As for your little brother, OMG. I once got my older brother to eat a dog treat. It looked like a piece of chocolate and I told him it was the best piece of chocolate he would ever eat and he believed me. Ahh, memories!December 6, 2013 – 10:38 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Louise,
    Oh man!! Now I wish I had photos! Darnit!!
    —
    Lisa,
    That it was during school is what made it so magical…
    —
    Lizzy,
    I agree that they both deserve an award!!!
    —
    Emily,
    Wow, I’m impressed!! You got your OLDER brother to eat a dog treat?!?! Did he realize it or just think the treat was stale or something?December 6, 2013 – 10:59 amReplyCancel

  • Katia - So I wanted to comment on how the graphics on this post are just brilliant and so hilarious, Kristi! And then when I realized that you were doing this with one hand (!!!) I became even more in awe of you. LOVED this short-ish or not, didn’t matter.December 6, 2013 – 11:26 amReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - LOL. I love you so much, Kristi. This just cracked me up. I was also a super serious child! And by the way, I can’t BELIEVE you are still blogging and drawing with one hand. I would have thrown in the towel for sure. You are a force to be reckoned with!December 6, 2013 – 11:36 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Katia,
    You are too kind, friend.
    —
    Deb,
    Back at you, you!! HA to being a force. Maybe just a little crazy!December 6, 2013 – 11:49 amReplyCancel

  • thedoseofreality - Okay, first of all, I ALSO sat alone in school! So, that part was totally my favorite. Secondly, I was crying with laughter about the fact that you made your little brother be your little sister. That.Is.Awesome.-AshleyDecember 6, 2013 – 12:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Natalie - The Cat Lady Sings - I had a little sister, and let me tell you – I’d have gladly sold her for a fistful of sourballs. 😉December 6, 2013 – 12:38 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Ashley,
    You were a bad bad girl too? Awesome!!
    —
    Natalie,
    Haha! MMM sourballs…December 6, 2013 – 12:53 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Oh man! I suck! Read this first thing this morning and totally forgot to leave you a comment! Owp!

    Okay, first of all – why were you at the front of the class all by your lonesome? Were you the Bad Kid who needed the teacher to Keep An Eye On Her? Cos I get that. I was infamous at school, amongst the teachers. There were reasons. It sucked.

    Second of all – your Dad is SO COOL! Wow! What an awesome thing to have done, and I completely understand how that stayed with you so strongly 😀 Wonderful.

    And third of all…you were SO MEAN to your bro! But I love that you did that and (best Big Sister Awesome Points here) you made him THINK IT WAS A GOOD IDEA! Epic win 😀December 6, 2013 – 1:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - (forgot to say – Little Girl You – DEFINITELY up to no good. Love it 😀 )December 6, 2013 – 1:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Laura - I don’t recall every dressing up my younger brothers, but I believe my sisters did at one point.December 6, 2013 – 2:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - Oh my gosh, I am totally going to take Izzy out of school one day early to go see a movie and get ice cream. That is such a great idea and an awesome memory.
    So. I used to dress my brother up as a girl, too. A lot. If you have any questions about how this turned out, feel free to ask me privately. 😀
    xoxoDecember 6, 2013 – 2:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - What a great memory with your father. And omigosh I love the image of you parading your sister around the neighborhood! 🙂December 6, 2013 – 4:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Considerer,
    I got in trouble for passing notes and my teacher was an ass. I was mostly pretty good. Really shy. Until 9th grade. Then, I was just bad.
    I agree that my dad is awesome!!!! I want to know more about the trouble you were in at school! hahaha to Mike thinking it was a good idea! He just liked the attention. I get that.
    —
    Laura,
    Maybe more common than I think!
    —
    Stephanie,
    HAHA to dressing up your brother! I think I know where this is going and I’ll bet there are awesome family conversations around it!!
    —
    Sarah,
    Aw thanks! Too bad Michelle had to go live on a farm, with my dog…December 6, 2013 – 8:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Ahhhh then I shall tell you. Not here, but I reckon I could get a post out of it soon 🙂 I was also thrown out of Brownies…December 7, 2013 – 3:13 amReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - I love this…both stories! My parents never did it but I have taken my kids out of school for a movie a time or two. I love surprising them like that!
    Dressing your little brother up as a girl…priceless! I never would have gotten away with that one.December 7, 2013 – 7:29 amReplyCancel

  • K - OMG Kristi! The story about how you dressed up your brother made me laugh so hard! I never dressed up my brothers as girls, but the three of us used to cause quite a bit of trouble together. We’d rig up the VCR with tinker toys to try and make the TV screen all static-y (zebra stripes, as we called them!) and we continued that until somehow my brother accidentally broke a window with a tinker toy (?). We’d also ride down the stairs in laundry baskets…those were the days. 😉December 7, 2013 – 2:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa Forever Five Blog - I love your posts about your dad. I will never forget the time when he had to explain what a blow job was to you. His response was so brilliant! And now I love him even more. Might even steal his movie move one day myself…;)December 7, 2013 – 8:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Christina Morley - Your dad has reached hero status. That must be the coolest dad thing ever. But, your poor sister, I mean brother! By the way, my eldest daughter as a teenager still doesn’t take enough care with her hair straightener. She’s burnt her laptop’s keyboard using it as a table top, her little sister’s foot by leaving it on the floor while on, and nearly burnt her bed, except that her dad walked past her room and saw it on the bed and found it on. What was she thinking?!! She has been scolded each time, so hopefully she’s becoming more careful and responsible.December 8, 2013 – 3:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - Every picture of you is adorable…just like Tucker! 🙂 I love that your dad took you out of school for no reason (well, there was a reason, but you know what I mean. Like not a real, “adult” reason). And that story about your brother! Wow, I see that your creativity started early, Kristi! You and I have so much in common. I moved when I was eight. I have a younger brother. BUT…the comparison ends there. I did not go to such great lengths to ease my loneliness! I also was not allowed to own a curling iron!December 8, 2013 – 8:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - You have the best freaking dad! Star wars on a school day? He rocksDecember 9, 2013 – 11:12 amReplyCancel

  • Heather - So not only did your dad handle the blow job questions from you as a kid (thinking about that post still cracks me up), but he took to see Star Wars in the middle of a school day? You totally won the dad jackpot!December 9, 2013 – 11:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Brittnei - It does sound pretty weird that they let you have a curling iron. Maybe they didn’t realize until something bad happened. 🙂 I remember my mom used to let us just stay home for one day in the marking period if we had no absences during that time. It was cool. 🙂December 10, 2013 – 2:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Mike - LOL I’m glad your brother was fine from the mole surgery. Sheesh, you had me there for a second. Stop that! Wed, May 25th, 1977. We were there. I will never forget the Star Destroyer swooping “over us” in the theater. My jaw dropped. Those 10 seconds changed film history 🙂February 8, 2014 – 3:07 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - The Star Destroyer was life-changing for freaking SURE, dude. Big time.February 9, 2014 – 1:05 amReplyCancel

  • Instyle window blinds. All styles of conservatory and window blinds. - Made to measure conservatory and window blinds for your doors and windows. We build blinds for Patio, Conservatory, Folding and Sliding doors.March 15, 2014 – 12:28 pmReplyCancel

Hi, Friends! I’m so pleased to feature the amazing words of my most namaste-excellent, brilliant friend, Sarah from Left Brain Buddha. Sarah and I found one another through mutual friends and immediately clicked. Her wisdom, outlook and life views are amazing and insightful. Visiting her site always makes me think, and I leave feeling peaceful and […]

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by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
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  • donofalltrades - Is this one of those comments where my latest post will show up here? Too funny, if yes, because it’s called The buddhists are ruining christmas for christians, lol. It’s not that bad, Sarah, I promise.

    While I am far far from religious, I do identify myself as Catholic. That has been tested recently as the church has banned alcohol from all kid related events like sports and trunk or treat. That was the half the joy of being Catholic…the drinking!

    Anyway, I got sidetracked, sorry. When I used to hear somebody say they were an atheist, I just equated that in my little brain with somebody saying they were still undecided as to what they believe in. How stupid, right? I’ve read more and more blogs by atheists and I get it now. I admire anybody whose made a decision that they stand by. That’s more admirable than me being Catholic mostly to shut my mom up. We don’t make the kids go to church as we don’t go very often, and we don’t make my daughter take psr classes since she doesn’t like them. If they grow up and want to believe in God, fine, if not? Great. Whatever.

    Anyway, I don’t know what my point was, I got distracted by a drawing of a woman on a toilet below. Nice, Kristi! If I think of a point, I’ll come back, but I’ve typed too much to scrap this crappy comment completely though. Thanks for the post! Oh, and yes, those lines at Target can be most intolerable, just like the Protestants!

    Hahaha, I’m kidding, geez…December 4, 2013 – 10:08 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Don,
    YES! Your blog post title shows up! Awesome timing!
    I believe in God. Not believing is too scary for me. We are terrible about getting to church though…
    Sorry the toilet drawing was so distracting for your man brain.
    Also, two of my best friends are atheists. That feels relevant.December 4, 2013 – 10:12 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Even though I am Roman Catholic, I have my moments and doubt in the church, as well as the fact that I wasn’t raised in believing that if I went to church that would make me a better person. I know many including my in-laws who are just that religious and go to church weekly. I am not saying I think anything is wrong with either choice, but I am saying that everyone should and does have a right to choose on religion, the lack thereof and even how they practice if they do. So, in that right I do feel I can relate and truly loved your post today. Thanks for sharing Sarah and thanks Kristi for having her here today.December 4, 2013 – 11:03 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Thanks, Janine. I agree that everybody has the right to believe in what they wish and that it is not up to us to judge.December 4, 2013 – 11:09 amReplyCancel

  • The Dose of Reality - What a fantastic post!! “We tolerate long lines at Target. We need to respect and honor and engage with human beings.” BINGO.
    Engaging others with respect is what it’s all about, no matter what your beliefs. I don’t understand what is so odd or foreign about that concept, but it sure seems to be something that we need to practice now more that ever. We seem to be getting worse at this instead of better. :/ Fantastic post!! –LisaDecember 4, 2013 – 11:42 amReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Thought provoking as always, Sarah. I have a complicated relationship with religion. I once wrote a post called “Church Lady” talking about it. I will send it to you if you are interested. My husband was not baptized and I think in my mind I left the Catholic church when I was 8. I have a lot of strong, involuntary reactions to overt theism, esp. Catholicism. I think some of it is justified but other parts… well, you’re probably right that I need to be more tolerant of the intolerant. (But I can’t, I can’t, I can’t!!!!!)

    Thanks for great food for thought. xoDecember 4, 2013 – 12:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Sarah, this is an awesome post, and I’m so sorry to hear that you had such bad experiences with religious people. It’s very frustrating to hear how wrongly and how alienatingly ‘religion’ can be done.

    But I LOVE that you’ve continued to explore this and develop your own beliefs and challenge your preconceptions. I wish everyone were as wise as you (I think that’s the left brain thing though, if I’m honest – I still don’t get that).

    You’re awesome, and you BRING IT to Our Land 😀 *dances*December 4, 2013 – 1:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Katia - I love you, Sarah, and I wish I had you for a teacher. I love the critical analysis you’ve subjected yourself to on your way to realizing that you started judging religious people as harshly as you were being judged. It takes someone open-minded and flexible to make that discovery and it takes someone brave and self confident to admit it to others. I loved this essay, just as I love everything you write and learned a lot. As usual. 🙂December 4, 2013 – 2:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah @ LeftBrainBuddha - Don – oh, how funny!! I will have to check out your post. And I love what you stated about your children and allowing them to believe what they want to when they grow up – so important!

    Janine ~ I agree we need to support people not just in what they believe, but in how they worship/practice. It’s not always about just going to church.

    Lisa – thanks for the comment. I sometimes go back and forth, thinking we’re getting better at respecting people, and then I see things that make me question it. But you’re right, it all comes down to engaging people and treating them with respect and compassion.

    Deb ~ I would love to read that post! And to clarify, the point I was trying to make is that the issue of intolerance of others is still an area where I struggle with religion. It is so hard to extend tolerance and compassion to those who are judgmental or who discriminate, but that’s probably where it’s most needed.

    Lizzi – Thanks for the kind words! So much of my negative experience with religion was when I was younger, not recently, but it’s only been recently that I have been able to look at my own views too.

    Oh, Katia, thanks! I’m glad I could share this here.December 4, 2013 – 4:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Sarah, I have typed and backspaced about five times trying to write a comment that does this post justice. I can’t do it. But I read it this morning and have been thinking about it all day. Thank you for exercising my brain – I love how your writing educates and inspires me!December 4, 2013 – 4:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - Oh, Dana, thanks for such kind words! It made my day!December 4, 2013 – 6:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - When you wrote “just because someone loves Jesus, it doesn’t mean they hate me” – I said, “Right!” I am the kind of person that doesn’t shove my christianity down anyones throat. Perhaps I am a “witness” in my writing occasionally. The only time I get uncomfortable is if someone challenges my belief. I don’t like those kinds of discussions. Otherwise you being you, and me being me – beliefs aside – we could totally be friends. I took too many mental notes before I got down here and now I’ve forgotten most of what I wanted to reference because I was memorizing that first line. But I did love how you said you just call it “love and justice.” Great Our Land post.December 4, 2013 – 6:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Heather - I loved this, so very well said. You even got in a Flying Spaghetti Monster reference. I especially liked this “We tolerate long lines at Target. We need to respect and honor and engage with human beings.” Something has long bothered me about the word tolerance, and that describes it exactly.December 4, 2013 – 8:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - That Glennon Doyle Melton quote. Why had I never heard that? I love it. I was born Jewish but my parents left the temple after we had all had our Bar/Bat Mitzvahs because they had only been doing it for us. My mom calls herself Tibetan Buddhist and my dad? Celebrates Christmas like you wouldn’t believe.
    So I was confused coming into my own marriage with a man who is both Mormon and Jewish. And let me tell you – the confusion hasn’t lessened after we had kids, like I magically thought it would.
    I have become very close with a few Christian bloggers and we all seem to get each other, and yes, tolerate and respect and even love one another. If you had told me this would happen even a year ago, I may not have believed it.
    I think it means I’m getting more open-minded too – in learning that there are open-minded and open-hearted people from every walk on life.December 4, 2013 – 9:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - My father was a scientist and an atheist. He was also a provocateur and, when I found a fossil at age five, he had me bring it in to show and tell and talk about evolution to the class. I grew up thinking religion was exotic, something other people got to do that I didn’t. I longed for the community, the connection to the tradition of my grandparents and to something bigger than “we are all just molecules”. My husband and I go to church, although less now that we have a toddler. I live in NYC and run in liberal circles. We are considered strange by many, crazy by others. I have never really cared what other people think. My religious belief is more important. I feel sustained by it in a way that no one needs to understand but me.December 4, 2013 – 9:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - Kenya – I love that statement about not shoving our beliefs on others… that’s where it gets so uncomfortable and inappropriate!

    Heather – thanks. I have always felt weird about the word “tolerate” as well, it just doesn’t have a very good connotation. And my dad is always trying to get me to work the FSM into a post!

    Tamara – I loved her book, she writes about her faith and christianity but in such a broad way that even I could relate to it! And wow, your family makes up an entire interfaith council!

    Rachel – I love the last line of your comment – ultimately, no one else truly needs to understand our beliefs but us.December 4, 2013 – 10:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Ruchira - Religion can be a very heavy dose if it is coming from someone who is a stickler to the religion he/she is following.

    I follow hinduism but got my education in a convent school where jesus was prominent for those 8 hours. The nuns did not impose upon me infact, I still sing those hymns 🙂

    I liked reading your perspective, Sarah.
    Namaste!

    Thanks Kristi for showcasing such a brilliant author/compassionate person.December 4, 2013 – 10:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate Hall - I’m impressed with your knowledge and research, Sarah. This is a really well-thought out post. The interesting thing to me about my own faith is how it has evolved over my lifetime and continues, and will continue to evolve. It is a mystery.December 4, 2013 – 11:24 pmReplyCancel

  • MJM - I personally think that judging someone by the religious views, or the lack thereof, is completely ridiculous and utterly senseless regardless of what job and/or place they hold in our society.

    Great post…thanks for sharing.December 5, 2013 – 3:37 amReplyCancel

  • Yvonne - Sarah, something that amazed me when I first got to know people from the States was that so many people still go to church. In the UK it’s definitely the minority.

    I could really identify with much of what you wrote here. I grew up going to church and then became cynical about it, because of the judgements. And that what Jesus said was so totally different to the old testament – as a teenager I decided that the OT was written by men long after the fact, so wasn’t reliable. I felt guilty if I didn’t go to church but I can also remember while at art school, sneaking to church in fear that anyone I knew might see me. (As if they’d be up that early on a Sunday!) Eventually I stopped going.
    Then I became friends with a female priest who had been taught about a loving and forgiving god, not the punishing one I’d known, and since then I’ve also met many other Christians who are not judgmental (even learning my parents had many doubts.) So I’ve had a similar journey to yours.

    I love that where we live now is multi-cultural, because my daughters have grown up with Muslim, Hindu, Jewish, Christian and atheist friends – but as far as I’m aware no Buddhists! (Though I definitely lean towards that.) I recently saw a video by a scientist David Eagleman where he described possibilianism – which explores possibilities with an open mind. I like it!December 5, 2013 – 4:11 amReplyCancel

  • Cathy - What a thoughtful article Sarah wrote, Kristi. I certainly can see why you and she clicked.

    I am a Christian. I love Jesus with all my heart. Sarah’s blog shows me how much Christians (as well as other religious folks, including atheists) have distorted the Bible. The primary message Jesus brought to this earth was, “Love one another.” Period. First and foremost. Once you love someone unconditionally, there is no room in your heart for judgement. <3December 5, 2013 – 10:15 amReplyCancel

  • Alice Risemberg ~ Reiki Pulse - Amen, sister! What a great post on true openness, authenticity, and the problem with labeling (even/especially ourselves).

    And where do I sign up to be a Pastafarian? Yum.

    Thank you for this mission to do more than tolerate, to respect and honor and engage with each other. Priceless!

    My husband is Christian and I am very much not. When I first met him (he was even teaching Sunday school at the time, not my vision of the perfect mate), I was astonished at how our spiritual views were aligned at their core even though our language was so very different. Over the years, I have found our different approaches with similar values and underlying beliefs to be a major positive as I continue my own spiritual growth and engagement. I think (?!) he feels the same way. It has opened my mind tremendously, which has helped my understanding of true compassion.

    Thanks for your story, Sarah. I love your blog and recommend it often.

    Warmly,
    AliceDecember 5, 2013 – 4:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - This is amazing, Sarah. Really interesting (and sort of shocking- the jr high and high school part) to learn more about your journey. You speak of this so bravely- I find myself very apologetic when discussing my lack of religious affiliation. I never refer to myself as an atheist. I mean, I believe in *something*…I’m just not sure what. And I am definitely not a Christian, so where does that leave me? I didn’t realize the Pope had made that comment about atheists and heaven this year. Wow. We are making progress. Thank you for this insightful, inspiring post.December 7, 2013 – 10:27 amReplyCancel

  • Natalie - The Cat Lady Sings - Sarah, I always love reading your blog, because you bring a different, refreshing perspective to my life. I came out of a spiritually intolerant, even abusive environment, and since coming out of it and working on recovering my own spirituality, I want to understand other perspectives. It’s helped me become whole again. I think we should embrace our similarities and differences in love. To me, that is the mark of a spiritually mature or enlightened person.December 7, 2013 – 11:37 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri @ Undiagnosed but okay - First, I love pastafarians they are so misunderstood.

    I think there are a lot of misconceptions about atheists. I know my own ignorance that I have the misunderstanding that atheists do not believe in any higher power. The light should show on the subject is a wonderful conversation starter.

    As far as when you were younger, I believe that due to the misconception (I have never used that word so much) that atheists don’t believe in God others feel bad and sad for you. We set such expectations that there is a plan, a reason to be good, something better than this Earth we are currently contaminating. And we forget to enjoy this moment right here when we learn more about one another.December 20, 2013 – 2:01 pmReplyCancel

It feels like Christmas today! Although I broke three bones in my hand while bravely fighting evil or something, and cannot put my hair in a ponytail or clasp my own bra, I received wonderful news from the orthopedic specialist today. It will not require surgery. I’m beyond relieved. Also, I got this very pretty […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Kathy Radigan - Kristi I so loved your essay! I also really related to it!!! Congratulations!December 3, 2013 – 8:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Dang now I feel bad for laughing at you the other day. But you did give me permission. I hate it when my husband asked me how I “managed” to hurt myself like I did the stupidest thing. So I want to totally irritate you and ask how did you manage to break your bones falling off a cot. I’m giggling again. Please don’t hate me. Love that picture of Tucker – LOL! I downloaded the book the other day. Congrats for being in another one. I finally finished MOAM, I reviewed it on Amazon this morning. Anyhoo – going to go clip on the snoopy video to see which song.December 3, 2013 – 8:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - Yes, I’m intrigued and can’t wait to read the rest of your essay — I have the book on my kindle, but haven’t started reading it yet. But congrats in the meantime — that’s awesome!! And I’d be excited about a green cast too – so glad you don’t need surgery either!December 3, 2013 – 8:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - I can only imagine how long that took you to type with one hand – that’s dedication! I think your cast is cool – wrap a red ribbon around it and you’ll be all Christmas-y. Or Kristi-y. Oh jeez, I am tired and punchy. Sorry to get all dorky on your blog.December 3, 2013 – 8:38 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kathy,
    I haven’t yet read yours, but so look forward to it as it will be amazing.December 3, 2013 – 8:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kenya,
    You continue to have my permission to laugh at me. It was beyond dumb. And yeah…everytime I tell the story, to docs, etc, they look at me really funny-like, wondering if I’m making it up. I should stick with the Caillou story.December 3, 2013 – 8:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Emily,
    You’re the bomb-diggity! Thanks for the excitement over my green cast!December 3, 2013 – 8:50 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Dana,
    I do really deserve an award for dedication…December 3, 2013 – 8:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - So glad you don’t need surgery!! And excited to be in the book with you – congrats!December 3, 2013 – 8:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Sarah,
    Thanks! Me too!!December 3, 2013 – 9:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Alexa - You always crack me up! So sorry about the broken bones, but relieved there will not be surgery! Happy to join you again for our 2nd book together! 🙂 I am going to be reading the book soon and I can’t wait to read your essay!December 3, 2013 – 9:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Real Life Parenting - With a bum, broken hand, you managed to write a damn good post, m’lady!! Oh, Snoopy. How does a little dog make me so happy?!

    And I was cracking up that Tucker’s reading the book on the pot!! Such a dude! 😉December 3, 2013 – 10:09 pmReplyCancel

  • Galit Breen - Happy pub day to you! I really love that you included an excerpt of your essay! (And I love the green cast! :))December 3, 2013 – 10:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Alexa,
    I too, am relieved no surgery, and yay us, right???December 3, 2013 – 10:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Real Life,
    Snoopy IS happy… And yeah, such a dude!!December 3, 2013 – 10:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Galit,
    Aw thanks so much!!! you get points for digging the green cast!December 3, 2013 – 10:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Ack, you’re in the HerStories book too. Well, everyone I know is!! (except my mom and her mom)
    I think the green cast is something to be desired. I better run to Wal-Mart soon so I can injure myself too!December 3, 2013 – 11:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Ha, yes, but only by the grace of the last minute!!!December 4, 2013 – 12:04 amReplyCancel

  • JenKehl - My Skewed View - What the heck??? I am such a sucky friend! That’s why I’m not in Her Stories! I am so sorry about your hand!
    And yet you still wrote a post, you are a miracle genius houdini!
    And kittens and other wild animals? I almost spit out my tea, but that would be bad cause then I would need a new laptop, so I choked on it instead.
    Grandma got run over by a reindeer is on rotation over here!
    And CONGRATS on the book! That is so awesome, you are soooo famous now!
    I am a fraud and a bad friend but I still love you TTTx10millionDecember 4, 2013 – 12:07 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Jen,
    Never a bad friend, sweets. Busy. Mom. Writer. TMTT host. It’s all good. TTTx million back and thank you!!!December 4, 2013 – 12:16 amReplyCancel

  • Beth Teliho - YAY to no surgery! That’s awesome! and loving your holiday cast…how very festive. It’s a yuletide log. Kind of.

    Congrats X 1000 on the book launching this week (today?)! So very thrilling and I’m over-the-moon for all the contributors! What a special collection of essays. Can’t wait to read it. << wish I could underline, italicize, and bold that last line.

    P.S. just published the post where I reveal the TRUTH! 🙂December 4, 2013 – 12:46 amReplyCancel

  • Brittnei - Hahaha! This post cracked me up! As always. I didn’t realize you were in the Herstories Project book! I got it on my kindle to support Dana from Kiss My List. I’ll be diving into that very soon! We do like Christmas music. My son tries to sing songs with my husband so I think I’m going to enjoy the two of them this year single all types of tunes while they try to emulate the voices singing the songs. lolDecember 4, 2013 – 2:15 amReplyCancel

  • Yvonne - Congrats on the book Kristi and sorry to hear about the broken bones. I’m amazed you are managing to blog! Well done you.December 4, 2013 – 4:29 amReplyCancel

  • The Dose of Reality - So glad that you aren’t going to need surgery! Whew!!
    Congrats on the new book! You know you’re a big deal when your family has to decide which of your numerous books to read! Woot!!
    Love all the videos but especially the Snoopy! When I think of Christmas songs, it’s always the song they played when Lucy and Linus ice skated. I think it’s called “Linus & Lucy”. I can’t hear it without thinking of the Charlie Brown Christmas show and that poor little tree!! –LisaDecember 4, 2013 – 6:13 amReplyCancel

  • meeshie - Gratz on being published! 😉 And please… tell me you have a stunt typist or something!December 4, 2013 – 7:35 amReplyCancel

  • LInda Roy - The green cast is so festive! Your poor Dad! LOLOL “Um…Dad? What’s a blow job?”
    Congrats on the books Kristi! I have my copies of both. 🙂December 4, 2013 – 8:58 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Beyh,
    I saw that I was wrong in guessing which fact was fiction, and wish I knew you in high school!!
    Yay for friendship essys! Let me know what you think!!December 4, 2013 – 9:35 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Yvonne,
    Thanks so much!
    —
    —
    Dose girls,
    I’ll have to google the Linus and Lucy video to remember which it is. I love the little tree in Charlie Brown Christmas special!!
    —
    —
    Meeshie,
    I wish I had a stunt typist! I’m pecking away at the keyboard like a loser!!
    —
    —
    Linda,
    Thanks so much! And yeah, my poor dad. Amazing he kept me, really.December 4, 2013 – 9:39 amReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - I’m so glad you don’t need surgery- what a relief! But that cast is a drag. I remember fracturing my elbow (I was 19 and fell down the stairs like a dumbass) and I couldn’t ponytail my hair. My boyfriend had to do it, and he sucked at it. Sorry, friend. Also, love the Tucker potty pic! Adorable! And you know how honored we are to have your amazing essay. It blows me away every time I read it. So beautiful.December 4, 2013 – 8:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - Your cast reminds me of Christmas…and Jesus and Santa Claus. Congratulations on the book. I loved, loved, loved your beautiful, powerful, honest and real look at female friendship.December 4, 2013 – 9:15 pmReplyCancel

  • catherine gacad - you are twice-published, what an accomplishment! i do like holiday music, but don’t really appreciate it being played before thanksgiving! i was listening the to the radio the day before thanksgiving and they were already playing christmas music. it made me ill because it’s just way too much, way too soon!December 5, 2013 – 7:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Nina - TWO books! That’s awesome. Love Tucker’s thought bubble.December 5, 2013 – 10:38 pmReplyCancel

  • A Morning Grouch - Hooray for not needing surgery!!! Great news. And how awesome on the books – you’re like, a real writer now! ;)Amazeballs.December 7, 2013 – 8:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - Sorry to hear about your hand but I do like the green cast. Green is may favorite color 🙂
    I just downloaded HerStories this morning and am looking forward to reading it. Congrats on being published again!December 8, 2013 – 4:04 pmReplyCancel

It’s thankful time. But first, I’d like to tell you a story about how bargain hunting on Thanksgiving and Black Friday went wrong. Having not previously experienced the craziness of shopping while still full of laughter and turkey, my mother-in-law and I decided to head out and see whether the deals were worth postponing our […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Christine M. (Cool Mom) - Tech Support for Stanley & Katrina - For real? This is true? I’m so sorry that this happened to you. Thankfully, I did not end up in urgent care and I actually was expecting to meet a few crazies out on the eve of Black Friday but only met really nice people. It was a bit odd. What a story, Kristi. I pray that you heal quickly and good for you for having a fantastic attitude!December 1, 2013 – 2:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly McKenzie - Kelly McKenzie · The University of British Columbia (UBC)
    Nooooo! Iam so very sorry. I initially thought you were kidding about the bat contact. And then I saw the photo. How absolutely unbelievable. I am also hoping that bat wielding Mama did not get to carry on with her shopping! May she have spent the night behind bars. Safe to say she was out to do nasty work, come hell or high water?
    I, too, am always taking the side of nice and polite and admire so much the fact that you spoke up. Good on you. We need to speak up. However, I’m hoping nobody reacts in the same way again. Best to check for a hidden bat before speaking up perhaps? Mend quicklyDecember 1, 2013 – 2:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Ok now I’m confused. Can I be confused about what happened, have the giggles and say I’m sorry at the same time?December 1, 2013 – 2:15 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - ok… I will either laugh… or I will shake my head (and laugh). Now we know certain bloggers we won’t identify ( other than her name rhymes with Lizzi)…. who are know to play a joke or two in fictionalizing a factual event, or is that facutalizing a

    but, …but! if this is true, and my suspicions are raised by the ‘being identified by a stranger in RL, a stranger with a bloggin grudge (great name for a writer’s group, no?), I am so totally envious of such an adventure in blogging… you totally will be famous.

    so come on, Kristi tell us I promise to ….laugh/not laughDecember 1, 2013 – 2:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - I love that you are able to look at the bright side and use a broken bone to come up with a hilarious post! And…hooray for hot doctor’s! I can’t believe that you were seriously taking pictures as he was setting your hand. You are a bad-ass blogger, for sure.December 1, 2013 – 2:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate - Oh my goodness! I am so glad she didn’t do more damage although feel sick about what she did do. Did the police come? What a psycho!!!December 1, 2013 – 2:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Either way, I am so sorry you broke your hand. Seriously looks so painful and give you credit for even being able to type up this article, because right or left handed, I do use both hands to type and can’t even imagine. Thinking of you and seriously sending hugs your way!December 1, 2013 – 2:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - You had me for a second. Only a second, because she called you an awful blogger in your story, and no one on earth would do that.
    I also can’t see you going out on Thanksgiving night. To Wal-Mart. Maybe Target? Maybe.
    We had a great holiday weekend. We just tried to fit it all in. A huge light show, seeing Frozen in the theater, a big Hanukkah party, a Santa parade, etc.
    Poor Des has a cold from all the excitement.December 1, 2013 – 3:11 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - Pffft!! Hahahaha!!! As soon as you said “caillou” I knew you were making up a story to cover some dumb move. My husband did the same thing when he tore a tendon in his finger simply taking his socks off.
    Regardless, I feel bad for you. That is an unfortunate injury. Good for you, though, still managing to type a full thankful post!
    Looks like Thanksgiving was mostly positive. Completely positive for Tucker, that cute boy.
    Hope you heal quickly.
    OH, and as for the scissors…Great idea!! My kids steal and lose scissors constantly. This chain setup is exactly what I need!December 1, 2013 – 3:19 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - You totally had me…when I saw the photo of your hand, I said to myself, “holy sh*t! she’s not joking!” I’m thinking writing fiction should be your next pursuit. As for my holiday/Black Friday, well, let’s just say I ventured to the mall myself to pick up the new Xbox One for my boys who thought they would be the most deprived boys on the planet if I did not get it for them for Hanukah…on my way to the Microsoft store, I simply couldn’t pass by the Michael Kors store without paying FULL PRICE for a leather tote, even though every other bag in the store seemed to be on sale. That’s what a dumbass I am…the only person on Black Friday who pays FULL PRICE (yes I had to write that twice) for a bag. However, when I got home, i showed the bag to my husband and said, “thank you for the Hanukah gift – I love it!” Thankfully (here’s my thankful part), he did not ask me if I got it on sale.December 1, 2013 – 3:58 pmReplyCancel

  • donofalltrades - You’re broken because you fell twelve inches onto a carpeted floor.December 1, 2013 – 3:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - You had be going until the lady called you out for being the blogger that hates Calliou. Not that you couldn’t be that famous, but your readers would never carry a bat in the Walmart parking lot. Well, I wouldn’t.

    I’m sorry about your hand, Kristi, but any injury that gives you a legitimate excuse to wear elastic waist pants can’t be all bad. Heal quickly!December 1, 2013 – 4:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Well, first of all – so sorry about your hand! Secondly, I was totally buying the Wal-Mart story until you said she called you an awful blogger. Anyone who is actually familiar with your blog would NEVER say that! 🙂 Finally, I dropped my iPhone in the toilet once, too.

    Hope your hand heals quickly!December 1, 2013 – 4:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - OMG! You’re such an asshole! YOU COMPLETELY HAD ME GOING! Right up until she had a bat. Wow! I have tasted my own medicine and it is…
    …Hell no, It’s AWESOME! You rock SO MUCH! And look how many OTHER people you ‘got’, too! I LOVE that you did this 😀 XD

    Totally don’t love that you broke your hand, but this – this was PURE CLASS.

    Glad you had a lovely Thanksgiving otherwise, and that you’ve got so many GORGEOUS pictures of Tucker 🙂 That smile…awwwwwwhhhhhhh 🙂December 1, 2013 – 5:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Christine M. (Cool Mom) - Tech Support for Stanley & Katrina - Oh my goodness, I totally read the second half but I thought you were kidding about the second half! Totally got me. Ha!December 1, 2013 – 5:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - Ouch! Whether bat or bed, that looks bad. Hope you heal up quickly!December 1, 2013 – 5:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Alison - You really had me for a moment with the bat-wielding lady! So sorry your fall from the cot occurred at such an inopportune time, with the holidays upon us. Hope you heal quickly!December 1, 2013 – 5:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Rich Rumple - Sis! I had no idea you’d hurt yourself. Your hand looks bad. How are you going to …. oh, forget it …. batteries! Anyway, take care of yourself and stay off of, or should that be stay on cots?December 1, 2013 – 6:16 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - @Clark – I cannot for one MOMENT imagine to whom you refer! *looks innocent*

    @Christine – come ONNN! This was good. This was very well played. 😀 *rolls eyes*

    @Rich – *SNORKS WITH LAUGHTER*December 1, 2013 – 6:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - Oh Kristi, that sucks! But you are oh so funny in telling how it happened. You had me going on the first story until the bat came out 🙂 I hope you recover quickly, and glad you’re still finding the good.December 1, 2013 – 7:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Sara - Ohhhh nooooo! So sorry to hear about your injured hand (and your insensitive hubby who would mock your pain!). For a minute there, though, I was really impressed how famous you are that some random crazy lady in Tennessee knows your blog! That woulda been cool (minus the bat, of course).
    You rock, sistah, and I hope work understands why you have to wear sweatpants for a while. Hmmm….maybe I should fake a broken hand….
    (Oh and Tucker gets cuter by the minute. I didn’t even think it was possible for him to get cuter but clearly you have photographic evidence).December 1, 2013 – 7:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - I totally believed you.

    But I was confused at first. How could a small flying rodent do that much damage?

    What you lack in luck you make up for in humor, Girlfriend!December 1, 2013 – 7:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Jen @ Real Life Parenting - Cracking me up with that cray cray bitch story!! 😉 I knew it was a fakeout when she defended Caillou. You and I both know that shit would never, ever happen … not even with some bat wielding looney tune at Walmart!!

    Good story … sorry about your hand! Sounds like you did quite a number on it! 🙁December 1, 2013 – 7:54 pmReplyCancel

  • GirlieOnTheEdge - What a great story! The Wal-mart one…well, falling off a 12″ cot is a good one too. LOL
    Looks painful Kristi. Hope it heals quickly:)December 1, 2013 – 8:38 pmReplyCancel

  • Angel The Alien - I totally believed this story… up until the part where she started sticking up for Caillou! That part was too far-fetched! ‘)December 1, 2013 – 8:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - yo, peeps… you rock. I’m sorry to those who thought somebody really beat me with a bat. i promise ill catch up on your blogs and thankful things…really. but right now, i need to get some sleep, heal, etc,…bleh.
    xoxo to all n i do promise I’ll catch up!!!December 1, 2013 – 10:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Mytwicebakedpotato - You totally had me until the part when’s she came after you with the bat!! So sorry that you were truly injured-speedy recovery I hope! 🙂

    I had a couple of Thankful posts that didn’t get much play but I think you might like them 🙂 http://mytwicebakedpotato.comDecember 1, 2013 – 10:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - My first thought was WOW THAT IS SO COOL PEOPLE KNOW HER FROM HER BLOG!!!! And then it got ugly, and I freaked OUT!!! Oh YOU!

    Seriously- you must give more details when you say you literally stumbled off a bed that is the size for the Elf on the Shelf and freaking BROKE your hand! How. On. Earth. Does. That. HAPPEN?

    Did you like twist and attempt to flip with your feet in the air and then land on the high dresser like a ninja mom, and then take a plunge into the window and drop three stories down to your cement patio iron furniture and land on your hand?

    Must’ve been what happened. 😉December 1, 2013 – 11:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - OMG, hilarious! You got me with the Walmart story. I was once knocked over and nearly trampled by crazy holiday shoppers (I was about 8?) so I totally bought your story. Too funny. Sorry to hear about your injury, and your phone. I dropped my phone in Josh’s bath this weekend. Not as gross as the toilet, but not good either. They had the phone I wanted on sale for free at Best Buy this weekend, so I did some shopping on Saturday. Stood for an hour in line to get it and somehow managed to hurt my knee. No where close to your injury, but dang! It’s tough getting old! Hope you heal soon! 🙂December 2, 2013 – 12:44 amReplyCancel

  • Beth Teliho - Okay, all joking aside (and there’s a lot to be had, obviously) OUCH!!! That looks majorly painful! I hope you got some killer pain meds with that injury!

    YAY to hot doctors…Yummy!

    Precious, Precious pics of Tucker! omg…..December 2, 2013 – 1:44 amReplyCancel

  • Brittnei - Omg! I really thought the first story happened. I was all upset and thinking wow, people have really lost it! LOL. It’s a little funny how it really happened though. 🙂 You never cease to make me laugh when I come to your blog. Our holiday was amazing! Found out we are expecting another bundle of joy a few days before and now that I’m at the 6 week mark I’m all sorts of crampy and nauseated but that’s about it! Dinner was amazing and of course things were just a little bit better because the Cowboys won on Thanksgiving. 🙂December 2, 2013 – 2:04 amReplyCancel

  • Misty - oh that was funny! i totally fell for your scary walmart encounter!December 2, 2013 – 7:49 amReplyCancel

  • thedoseofreality - Oh sweet baby Jesus, I was doing okay until I got to the UGG picture. That did me in. My keyboard is now covered with coffee. Thank God, I had cleaned it off and refrained from taking another sip when I got to the scissors picture. Best post ever.-AshleyDecember 2, 2013 – 7:53 amReplyCancel

  • Evil Joy - OMWORD!!! That is the BEST! I was totally sucked in – because you know…there are Black Friday Crazies out there!!!! The bat – the swing – the connect…and the falling off the bed. I’m so sorry your had is broken – that sucks! I broke my wrist a couple of years ago and it’s no fun…but you’ll heal fast!!!December 2, 2013 – 8:01 amReplyCancel

  • Michelle - Ok you really had me going there! That was hysterical!! Anyway, I have done plenty of ridiculous things including falling on the ice in my driveway and getting a concussion so I am with you!December 2, 2013 – 12:03 pmReplyCancel

  • K - I totally believed that story until she mentioned Caillou! 😉
    And ouch! 🙁 I hope your hand feels better soon.December 2, 2013 – 2:09 pmReplyCancel

  • K - Whoops, sorry for the typo — I mean until YOU* mentioned Caillou! It’s been a long day already, haha.December 2, 2013 – 2:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Heather - I was simultaneously thinking this is hilarious and this is frightening! People get just crazy on Black Friday so it was totally believable. That said I’m glad it was a cot that attacked you and not wacko shooper! Hope your hand feels better soon!December 2, 2013 – 5:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - You totally had me for a minute. I am so gullible. My jaw had dropped. No matter what the actual circumstances, I am SO sorry this happened. And did you know I dropped my iPhone in the toilet last week? Cheers, fellow dumbass. (I mean that lovingly. And I don’t really think you’re a dumbass.) Please don’t reply to this comment- and how did you write/type/draw that post??? Hugs to you, pal!December 2, 2013 – 6:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Anita @ Losing Austin - Oh my gosh! Ours wasn’t what we planned, as my husband’s family that was planning to be with us a few days had to cancel plans last minute. We spent the day with friends and had a nice day, but we were all still bummed.

    Hope that heals quickly :/December 3, 2013 – 1:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - You realize I seriously thought this happened to you until the very last second of the essay? Silly Moo Cow.

    Sending kissies to your hand. Those work, right?December 4, 2013 – 1:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy @ i can say mama - Oh Kristi, I am sorry you hurt yourself! I am very late on my round around the hop and I hope that your hand has improved by now!

    The story you made up was cool and I was impressed that someone else recognised you for a split second! 😉

    Love all the cute pics!

    Take care!December 4, 2013 – 4:16 pmReplyCancel

  • JenKehl - My Skewed View - You actually had me going! I was like OMG is she that famous that some gross lady at Walmart knew who she was???
    LOL
    I am sorry for your hand. That sucks so hard. I was in a cast on my leg for months and months (on and off) and that sucks and I don’t use my leg to type!
    But your story had me LMAO so there’s that!December 4, 2013 – 10:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ The Meaning of Me - Oh NOOOO! Either way it happened (although the bat story is fabulous), the hand injury is so not cool. Good thing you got a hot doc in urgent care. 🙂 We did not have urgent care on our weekend agenda, but I did end up flat on my butt in bed for four solid days with the worst stomach bug ever. Sounds pathetic – but really it was horrible.

    Glad you have some other lovely things on your list that are not as bad as the hand – just love the PS about the phone in the toilet – laughed out loud for the first time in days!

    Hope your hand feels better soon!December 5, 2013 – 2:52 amReplyCancel

  • Laura - The sad part is that the lunatic at Walmart story was actually believable! I could see someone actually doing that. Sorry about falling off the cot, but you’re still a bad ass either way.December 5, 2013 – 1:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Dee Williamson - Hilarious!!! Oh my goodness!December 5, 2013 – 10:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate Hall - I totally believed your story. I was shocked that a woman would act that badly and assumed she was intoxicated or something. Crap, a one-foot fall – sounds like something I would do. I had to type with one hand/no hands when I had what I thought was carpal tunnel, but it wasn’t that bad. The voice-to-text apps work pretty well once you get the hang of them. You have to say the punctuation which is kind of a pain. Are you right-handed? If you write it out on paper, then speak it, it would probably be easier. Ugh.December 6, 2013 – 12:44 amReplyCancel

  • Mike - Holy schnikes!!! I was physically activated over the lady with the bat and ready to fight alongside you and…and… ok…deep breaths. That was convincing, Kristi. I had a similar cast on when I was a kid and they are a bugger. I had the showering part the worst! You do carry mace I hope. That picture of Tucker totally breaks the cute boy meter!!! Btw…love me some tractors too. Great memories 🙂February 14, 2014 – 11:03 pmReplyCancel

Happy Thanksgiving! Today, we give thanks for our friends, family, the trials that have made us stronger, and the blessings and milestones we meet with tears and celebrations. Let’s remember gratitude and kindness. Giving back. Let’s remember that everybody is important, and that everybody has a story, whether they live in a car or in a […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Considerer - How the hell do you do it. It’s NINE sentences. Nine. And somehow, within that, you convey SO MUCH, and all of it gorgeous.

    *shakes head in awe*

    I’m doing something special tomorrow. Not food, but blog. Should be good 🙂November 27, 2013 – 5:38 pmReplyCancel

  • Brittnei - Haha! I actually saw someone make a tofuturkey on this family Thanksgiving challenge on TV! We actually don’t make turkey. Hubby doesn’t love it so I made a whole chicken instead. I love what you said about everyone’s story and where everyone is right now in their lives. We don’t the whole story. Loving everyone regardless is important. 🙂 Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you have a wonderful day with family and friends!November 27, 2013 – 5:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Considerer,
    Aw! You are too kind! I can’t wait to see what you’re up to tomorrow that’s special! Happy Thanksgiving!
    —November 27, 2013 – 5:50 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Brittnei,
    Did you really? I’ve never seen a tofurkey in real life! I don’t mind tofu usually but molding a turkey out of it is something that I think is beyond hilarious. I hope you have a wonderful day, too! And a whole chicken sounds yummy…
    —November 27, 2013 – 5:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerith Stull - Great, simple post…LOVE it!! Hubby and I are helping prepare turkey at a local church for needy families (Helloooo 7:30am start time!). Late breakfast and hanging out all day before frying our turkey at the usual dinner time for our little family of four (plus #1 daughter’s boyfriend). Happy Thanksgiving! I’m thankful I found you!!November 27, 2013 – 6:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Lizzy - Muddle-Headed Mamma - You have such a way with words, Kristi. So true – everybody has been through more than they share. One night, in a really crowded restaurant, someone once said to me: “Everybody in the room has a story that would make you cry”. I’ve never forgotten that. Happy Thanksgiving to you, you wonderful woman.November 27, 2013 – 6:09 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Happy Thanksgiving to you, your husband and Tucker. Hope you have a wonderful day and seriously I am so repeating the rest here, but you do have a way with words!! 🙂November 27, 2013 – 6:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kerith,
    I LOVE that you are preparing turkey for needy families! 7:30 start time isn’t the most fun but you’ll get so much out of the day. My husband’s family fries their turkeys as well! I’d never heard of it before meeting him but MMMM delicious. We’ll be in the car heading to their place (for 6 1/2 hours). Happy Thanksgiving! I’m thankful that I found you, too!November 27, 2013 – 6:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Lizzy,
    I love the line “everybody in the room has a story that would make you cry.” That is so so true, isn’t it? Several stories that would make us cry. I hope that I never forget that line, either. And thank you so much for the lovely comment and visit. Happy Thanksgiving to YOU. You’re pretty wonderful yourself, ya know.November 27, 2013 – 6:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Janine,
    Thank you! Happy Thanksgiving to you, Kevin, and the girls! I hope you have an amazing (and relaxing) day. And thanks so much for the sweet comment!November 27, 2013 – 6:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Happy Thanksgiving to you! So happy to find you in this “crazy, beautiful, confusing, messy, wonderful, amazing life.”November 27, 2013 – 6:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - My husband does ALL the cooking and yes we do all the traditional stuff…I just stand there and act like I’m helping. I do clean up though, which I actually don’t mind as long as my wine glass is by my side. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family and so thankful you are part of my online life!November 27, 2013 – 7:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Happy Thanksgiving, Kristi. I’m hosting a small dinner with my parents and in-laws, since all of the siblings are with their in-laws. And I’m thankful that we’ve met in real life. Let’s do lunch soon!November 27, 2013 – 7:24 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Ha! I grew up with tofurkey! Since I married a CARNIVORE, we will be having Turkey. Our just the three of us Thanksgiving just came together today. We tried to talk Christopher into something untraditional like gumbo but he said, “No, we gotta have Turkey”. So we each picked something that we wanted as a side and there you have it. I’m actually excited now. He got us out of a holiday funk. You all have a wonderful day! See ya soon.November 27, 2013 – 7:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Tamara,
    So happy to find you in it, too, friend. so. so. so.November 27, 2013 – 9:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Emily,
    YAY for your hubs doing all of the traditional stuff at home. We had one thanksgiving like that and it was just okay. We still go to our parents. Well, his parents. Where they deep fry turkey and drink moonshine. And that’s all good. Thinking of you and yours.November 27, 2013 – 9:22 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Dana,
    I love your small dinner and am sure your “I’m thankful for” sweet decorations are going to be a huge hit!!! Happy Thanksgiving! And yes, I’m thankful to have met you IRL too.. We def need to do lunch. Soon.November 27, 2013 – 9:24 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kenya,
    HAHA I included the tofuturkey just for you as I was wondering if you’d converted!! So happy to hear that the amazing Christopher turned it from blah and depressing to awesome and exciting. Kids have magical powers that way. Look forward to seeing photos!!
    xo
    And Happy Thanksgiving!!!November 27, 2013 – 9:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Mombo - Bless you and your sweet family, Kristi! I’m poking at the beginnings of “stuffing” / “dressing”… whatever zzzzzzzNovember 27, 2013 – 11:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - Happy Thanksgiving, Kristi! I am so thankful to have “met” you this year. I love your blog, and it’s been nice to get to know you and Tucker through it. Lots of blessings to you and your family! Tomorrow, I am having a super low-key Thanksgiving, and I cannot wait. I just want to eat and lay on the couch and watch football. I sound like a guy. LOL! Hope yours is great and enjoy that moonshine! Cheers! 😉November 27, 2013 – 11:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Rich Rumple - Happy Thanksgiving, Sis! Staying home alone while wife works at pharmacy. Sleep, Football, Basketball, Writing, and more sleep to catch up. Hope you and yours have a great day!November 28, 2013 – 12:59 amReplyCancel

  • Linda Atwell - Out One Ear - Happy Thanksgiving back at you! We are going to my sister’s for Turkey Day and spending time with her family. Lindsey and Nick are going to his parents. My son is in or near Texas. My mother is in Arizona. Since my Dad died and my mother remarried, as far as the holidays, traditions have have scattered in many directions. We’ve had to invent new traditions. It’s all good though. I made my yummy pumpkin rolls today. My somewhat famous niece (Tenley Molzahn (yes, I’m not above name dropping) from The Bachelor will be in attendance and we always get to hear all the Southern Cal gossip). And I leave for Aruba with my sisters on Friday. We join my cousin there (she owns a condo and invited us for 10 glorious days). All in all, I’d say this is going to be one fantastic holiday weekend. (I’m kinda of embarrassed to share that I’ll be traveling again, but what can I say? I love to travel. I’m happiest when I am. And I’m thankful that I get to.)November 28, 2013 – 1:09 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Mombo,
    MMMM STUFFING. MMMM. Happy Thanksgiving!!
    —-
    —-
    Jessica,
    I’m thankful to have met you this year, too! Your super-low key day sounds awesome and yeah, you do totally sound like a guy! HAHAH! Awesome! xo
    blessings to you and yours as well, my friend!!!
    —
    —
    Rich,
    Your Thanksgiving sounds almost perfect. Absolutely perfect, in fact! Enjoy the day!!!
    —
    —
    Linda,
    I know what you mean about family traditions going out the window a bit with parents here and there. My mom is in Montana, my dad in Colorado, hubs family in Tennessee, so our tradition becomes that we travel.
    I can’t BELIEVE you’re going to Aruba! I’m so jealous, especially right on the heels of just getting back from Costa Rica! I love that you get to travel so much. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. Your day today sounds really fun!November 28, 2013 – 8:36 amReplyCancel

  • meeshie - The mother in law is cooking so.. we’re heading that way in a few hours. It’s the babe’s first thanksgiving so.. this should be interesting and filled with picturesNovember 28, 2013 – 8:38 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Meeshie,
    I hope it’s wonderful and amazing. And relaxing and drama-free. With great photos. And pie.November 28, 2013 – 8:48 amReplyCancel

  • The Dose of Reality - We’re headed over to my inlaw’s house where the entire family meets for fun and loads of traditional Thanksgiving food!
    I hope you have a wonderful day!! Happy Thanksgiving!! –LisaNovember 28, 2013 – 9:56 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Lisa,
    Sounds fun! Happy Thanksgiving!November 28, 2013 – 11:03 amReplyCancel

  • Shay - Happy Thanksgiving to you, too! It’s one of my favorite holidays. I’m currently sipping coffee and sitting on the couch with my boys, sneaking in a little blog hopping while watching Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Perfection!November 28, 2013 – 12:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Nina - My family has never done tofurkey but we have done turducken (duck in a chicken in a turkey). This year, it’s just good ol’ turkey 🙂November 28, 2013 – 1:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy @ i can say mama - Happy Thanksgiving, Kristi! I hope you will have a wonderful time with your family and enjoy yourself! xoxoNovember 28, 2013 – 2:50 pmReplyCancel

  • Mama C. - It was a low-key Thanksgiving around these parts…so low key that I arrived at the dinner table in my flannel PJs. (Ah, the perks of staying home on Turkey Day, lol). It was just me, DH, the babies and my mom…and her bichon who thinks he is a person. Dinner was lovely. Anyhow, do you know what I am thankful for? That I’ve connected with you. Really, I am…by now I’m sure you are at your destination and (hopefully) enjoying moonshine. I, on the other hand, am sans alcohol since my mother and I polished off the last of the champs by 3 p.m. (sigh) Happy Thanksgiving! And safe travels upon your return.November 28, 2013 – 9:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Angel The Alien - We have a potluck feast… my mom makes a turkey and some vegetables, and everyone else brings stuff. Also this year my mom made baked macaroni and cheese, which was my request… yummyyummyyummy!November 28, 2013 – 9:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - HAPPY THANKSGIVING MY FRIEND!!! Yes- beautifully said. I am home now and full and tired and grateful. Hope yours was beautiful too… full of all the love that could fill you up full. XOXO (And turkey too!)November 29, 2013 – 12:33 amReplyCancel

  • jamie@southmainmuse - We have a pretty traditional Thanksgiving — but we are thinking of having an unconventional Christmas since our house is torn up. Maybe going away the whole week??? But for both holidays the main focus is to realize all we are blessed with. Hope you are enjoying your holiday.November 29, 2013 – 6:22 pmReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - Happy belated thanksgiving love. We celebrated my husband’s half-breededness at my mother in laws. She cooked the bird until it was a mummy. I used it as a tooth pick.November 30, 2013 – 2:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Shay,
    Yay for parades! And blogs!!
    —
    —
    Nina,
    Duck in a chicken in a turkey? Wow. I’m not sure whether to be impressed or a little bit freaked out!!
    —
    —
    Joy,
    Thanks, love! You too!! xo
    —
    —
    Mama C,
    I love that you dined and drank champers in your pj’s. Love. Sounds like a really wonderful day!! And I’m really glad that I’ve connected with you, too!!
    —
    —
    Angel,
    Mac and cheese is one of my all-time favorite foods. Hooray to your mom for making it!
    —
    —
    Chris,
    Full and tired and grateful. Sounds perfect. xoxo
    —
    —
    Jamie,
    Yes! Go away for the week! I think that sounds wonderful. Somewhere tropical maybe??
    —
    —
    Kim,
    EW. Sorry ’bout that!! Maybe she resented cooking foe an ‘Merican holiday and that was her way of reminding you that you are Canadian.December 1, 2013 – 10:26 amReplyCancel

I’m late to the party. I’ve been sick. Tucker’s been sick. He got better, and I didn’t. Not soon enough, anyway. All whining aside, today’s a bit of a celebration in the land of Ten Things of Thankful. This week marks it’s 25th, and, as Clark says, those of us who are missing the Y […]

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by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
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  • Considerer - BOOM! FIRST COMMENT! I’m getting good at this 😀November 25, 2013 – 1:34 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Considerer,
      You were indeed, first. And second! Whoot! Ooh, I need to go check out what Jack figured Christine said and what’s up with her digging holes. We’re in the holes? Uh-oh…
      YAY for poop! And I though that the naked cake was pretty rockin’ myself. Heh.
      Jak n Dyanne. So it’s true then? You’re confirming this rumor?November 25, 2013 – 10:02 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - *settles in* Right, let’s do this properly 🙂

    Your intro is THE BOMB. Made me grin so much, and thanks SO much for that imagery, again. But it’s nothing compared to what Jak figured Christine said chez moi, because it seems like our dear Pig Wrangler is not only too busy trying to shed her moniker (instead of her clothes) to participate, she’s also busy digging BIG HOLES and dropping us into them…

    And Jak’n’Dyanne….awwwwwwwwwwh! Too cute 🙂

    Your list is most excellent. Whenever you post on ‘WTH do I do about school?’ I’m sure that you’ll get loads of good advice – you know so many good and sensible people around here – one of them’s bound to have a reasonable suggestion.

    Glad your Dad’s such a marvellous guy and chatted and helped so much.

    And though (again) I never thought I’d say this, YAY FOR POOP! 😀

    I LOVE YOUR CARTOON! That is a most totally awesome way of nakeding a cake 😀 Kudos for that *hi-fives*

    Glad you’re on the mend *hugs*November 25, 2013 – 1:40 amReplyCancel

  • Jak - ACK! ALL the TToT scandals are loose on the Blogosphere! Must attempt to contain them >.<
    –
    I may have possibly brought up the Naked Cake… and yes, it may be best to remain ignorant to what I had envisioned… And as for Pig Wrangler, I am almost positive Christine coined that for herself, but there may be a smidgen of truth in it all… I'm still working on getting Pigwrangloria to go "viral"! I will do my best to avoid planting seeds of suggestion for any further TToT Anniversary activities/events/fuckinglyawesome ideas! Except maybe Vegas…
    –
    And you are right, I am very careful. If the rumors were true, and I am neither acknowledging nor denying, Dyanne would have nothing to worry about. But she was curiously sick this week as well…
    –
    I really like your idea about Clark, and it's a shame it was never able to come to pass. Perhaps once the blog hop hits 50? Certainly 100, but by then there may be the expectation of full blown open-relationship, free lovin' orgies. Just saying… you heard it here first.
    –
    Sorry to hear about all the illness going around, but it sounds like it's beginning to get better (and for Tucker completely back to normal?). I've been tending to the Ladyfolk all weekend after she caught some kind of bug… not sure what exactly, but it isn't pretty.
    –
    I've since nicknamed her Squirtle… if you know what I mean…
    –
    Having no children of my own, I am definitely not the best with the school advice. I do think that the transitioning played a part in Tucker's behavior, though. I believe this same thing happened (happens?) with my ex's son. Not exactly sure of the "why" but any transitioning would often be met with resistance and or similar behaviors you've explained. Hopefully there will be some people able to more fully assist and advise. Also, that toy bribe was something we used at the time for training/encouragement and it worked really well. Glad you are having some success with it!
    –
    I LOVE your Naked Cake! That is amazing! It's wonderful you were able to get a post in this weekend (I recall you saying you've been missing here/there) and trust me, you definitely weren't late to the party. I'm likely the only one ever hitting that status!
    –
    The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkNovember 25, 2013 – 1:43 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - JAK!
      HAHA it’s all your fault then, for suggesting the naked cake, right?? Scandals and rumors are much too fun to contain, really, I think. I’m digging the idea of Pigwrangloria going viral!
      Wait, Vegas? I love Vegas. Love.
      Hmmm, that is quite curious that Dyanne was sick this week as well. Could these things be related?
      Yes, it’s too bad that Clark chickened out on his whole running naked through a field thing with a cupcake in each hand. That would have been marvelous indeed. Oh and I’ll pass on any of the free lovin’ orgies, m’kay?
      I’m sure your Ladyfolk LOVES the nickname Squirtle – not. Good of you to look after her though.
      Interesting that your ex’s son also had problems with the transition. I think sometimes, it’s their only way of saying “hey wait a minute! what’s going on??” Thanks for the congrats on the success with pooping. It’s a pretty big deal and I’m more than excited.
      YAY for naked cake!!!November 25, 2013 – 10:06 amReplyCancel

  • Jak - @Lizzi – Only first because I was writing some epicness! Cheater!November 25, 2013 – 1:45 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Sorry you and Tucker were sick this weekend and hoping you are both on the mend now. No one was sick here, but seriously haven’t been online as much as usual with Lily birthday this weekend, so I am a bit out of the loop myself. Anyways, also wanted to say yay to the pooping on the potty and just so thankful that my girls are indeed potty trained and that I will never hopefully ever have to go through that again!November 25, 2013 – 7:07 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Janine,
      Thanks. Yeah, we’re both finally on the mend. He recovered pretty quickly, whereas mine has lingered but maybe that’s a sign that I need to sleep more!! Happy birthday once again to your sweet Lily!
      Yes to never potty training again. Ever.November 25, 2013 – 10:08 amReplyCancel

  • christine - Your intro was marvelous. I get distracted every time someone says Jak and Dyanne in the same sentence. That song immediately moves into my brain and I can’t think until the song is over. Luckily, I only know about 1/5 of the words…

    How wonderful that you can talk to your dad for an hour and a half that late at night about such important things. Sounds like you two have a wonderful relationship.

    Ugh to the pooping in the pants. Really glad you found a working solution to that disaster. (I’m sure you and the teachers are more so, but still, I’m happy for you all.)

    As for kindergarten…such a hard decision. I would suggest going to the private schools you could feasibly send him to and talk with the principals. Sometimes, private is better, because they don’t have to go through so much red tape in order to do what is best for the child. Some, though, don’t have the resources to handle much outside the “norm”.

    And lastly, way to bring the naked cake!November 25, 2013 – 7:22 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Christine,
      That song will now be in my brain ALL day, even though I’d successfully exorcized it last night. Yes, I’m happy that we finally figured out the pooping in the potty thing, too! A pretty huge milestone!!!
      Sigh. Kindergarden. I’m sure it’ll be fine, but it’s so hard to know what to do really. Both now, during the transition and then, when he’s supposed to know more than he does! Yikes.
      YAY for naked cake!!!November 25, 2013 – 10:10 amReplyCancel

  • thedoseofreality - Crying with laughter…LOVE the Jack & Dyanne joke…and naked cake is my favorite kind of cake. Oh wait, that sounds wrong. You know what I mean, right?! ;)-AshleyNovember 25, 2013 – 7:58 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - If you started a school, I guarantee I’d do anything to join it. Or I’d do your publicity photography. So there’s that.
    Also, my sister used to get pink eye a lot as a kid and maybe it was terrible, but all I saw was a girl missing school because of an itchy eye. So I did what anyone (in)sane would do and I touched her eye and then touched my own.

    Guess what happened? Nothing. Maybe I’m immune or very (un)lucky.November 25, 2013 – 8:29 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Tamara,
      I’m saving this comment forever because YOU HAVE to be the official photographer! Whoot!
      Also I’m laughing my ass off that you used to touch your sister’s eye and then your own hoping you’d be able to stay home. HAHAHA!! That’s hilarious. And also weird that you never got it…November 25, 2013 – 10:11 amReplyCancel

  • Emily - Ok, so if you’re even slightly serious about starting a school, you should try to talk to CC McCarton. She’s a developmental pediatrician in NYC who started a school maybe 5-7 years ago. I know she did and does all kinds of fundraisers and the tuition is insanely high, but I’m sure the school is phenomenal.It does sound like for next year, you have choices, which is GOOD. I always say, go with your gut. They tried to put our son in a self-contained classroom and we knew that wasn’t right for him so we advocated (had to hire a lawyer) and got him placed in the right classroom with support. There is no perfect solution, but sometimes you can make it closer to perfect with the proper nuancing (is that a word?). Anyway, always happy to talk further about this…I know you’ll figure out the best possible choice for him!November 25, 2013 – 9:42 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Emily,
      Thanks so much! It’s so encouraging to know that other people have started schools successfully. Yeah, we do have some choices for next year, and I won’t really know what’s missing until we look more closely at our options. Obviously, the best thing if for Tucker’s needs to be met in public schools, but it’s hard to know whether they will be or not right now. I’m talking to his current teachers about it and they’re beyond amazing, so we’re really lucky there.
      Thanks for the offer to talk more about this! I’ll be taking you up on that for sure!November 25, 2013 – 10:14 amReplyCancel

  • donofalltrades - How do you keep up with all of this crapola?? So many blog hops so little time!!

    Sorry everyone is feeling sick. Maybe if you guys would take better care of yourselves and not lick door knobs and such, things would improve in that department.

    I’d love to help with the school thoughts, but I have no idea about Virginia schools. I assume, based on Virginians, that they suck, but that’s just a guess. Lol.

    Good luck!November 25, 2013 – 11:21 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Don,
    Actually, the county we’re in in VA is good for autism-related stuff. It’s a beta-test site for PAC (preschool autism classrooms) so we’re lucky there. It’s more next year, when I don’t really want Tucker in a self-contained class (all ASD kids but can be older as well) so I don’t know what the best option is…private? I hope not.
    And yeah, I don’t really have time either which is why this sucked. I posted it at midnight last night. That says a lot.
    And wait. We’re not supposed to lick doorknobs? NO FREAKING WONDER and why has nobody told me that? Fuck.November 25, 2013 – 11:31 amReplyCancel

  • clark - …hello?……HELLO??!

    (what the hell, no one here! I know the invitation said…Christine’s Sunday the 25th! plain as frickin day)November 25, 2013 – 11:59 amReplyCancel

  • clark - ..have I mentioned how I seem to lose track of Comments in the second half of the Sunday, when you youngsters start to make the rounds at, like what…9:30 pm?

    ayiiee… being sick is no fun….well, let me take that back, in certain circumstances it can be, but usually it requires that you are not responsible for anyone else and you can lie on the bed and try and keep the windows from moving around on the walls…though I favorite thing is to get at up like 1:45 am and wander the house in my robe doing a narration that involves being ill and the strange location I seem to have found myself in…hope you feel better.

    yeah, them rascals at the TToT is something… how is it even possible to scrunch down in my chair…when the party gets boisterous…when this is all virtual?! years and years of practice, I guess.

    I will say this as affirmation of what I think are your strong points, when it comes to the welfare of others, particularly family-others, your instincts are always dead on.

    ya know?November 25, 2013 – 12:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - @Jak – I didn’t even CLOSE to cheat, buddy – I had TWO comments posted (succinct and gorgeous) while you wrote your epic :p

    And no orgies. There’s utterly the wrong balance of people for that. Nope, not even for our 100th.

    @Kristi – I have NO IDEA except she keeps doing it and making the situation far far more fraught than it needs to be.November 25, 2013 – 1:07 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Clark,
      Yeah, yeah, I was late to the party but I brought naked and defiled cake, so there’s that! HAHA to scrunching down in your chair when the party is so boisterous. I fully expect you to remedy that by our 50th, m’kay?
      Aw to having dead-on instincts. That’s quite lovely of you to say!
      Hello? HELLOOOOO????? The 25th right? Damn calendar.
      —
      —
      Considerer,
      I couldn’t find the reference to burying us in holes. Sigh. Maybe she’s hidden it as it’s all part of a master evil plan. You DO remember what happened to the pigs right? They became food.
      Agree. No orgies.
      Agree also that you totally beat Jak in comment one AND two while he was busy typing. 😉November 25, 2013 – 1:25 pmReplyCancel

  • Denise Farley - Glad to hear I wasn’t the only late party goer. LOL
    So sorry that you and Tucker have been sick. Sucks. Hopefully, you guys are 100% before the weekend:)

    I have full confidence that should you decide to, you would have what it takes to open a school:) Keep us up to date on that!November 25, 2013 – 1:57 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Denise,
      Me too to not being the only late one!!! Thanks, I hope we’re better by the weekend, too. For the first time, I’ve actually lost my voice. Which just made me the most ideal partner ever, right?
      I’ll totally keep you up to date on the school.
      —
      —
      Jak,
      Aw. Seeds? Wait, we’re talking about Clark running naked through a field and you bring up seeds? I think this may need to take a new direction…November 25, 2013 – 11:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Jak - I can’t help that I read and type slow >.<
    –
    As for other things… the seeds are seeds and shall do as seeds do when loved and cared for. As for "ratio" arguments, I'm pretty sure Clark disagrees. It seems "May the odds be ever in your favor" panned out for him for once!November 25, 2013 – 2:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Sara - I saw the letters that spell “thankfully” at the top of the post and saw the “F” “U” first and then was sure you were trying to spell eff you and somehow misspelled it. I’m embarrassed and amused how long it took to get my mind to let go of F.U. and actually READ what it said. Ha!

    Hoooooraaaay for Tucker pooping in the potty! Every day this week! That’s awesome and huge and congratulations, Mom! ….I don’t like to brag, but I also pooped in the potty every day this week. Just sayin’. 😉

    I hope you get lots of good advice on schools. At least you don’t live somewhere like SanFran where you have to sign your kids up shortly after conception if they’re going to have any chance to get in (and it costs as much as college, to boot!). Ugh! Where did we (as a nation) go so wrong??? Good luck!!November 25, 2013 – 2:42 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sara,
      I still see F U every time. I like it that way, actually. And yes, HOORAY for Tucker pooping in the potty this week. He even instigated it! For real, said “I poo potty” which is a lifetime after having to ask him.
      Also, huge congrats to YOU for pooping in the potty EVERY day this week. I missed a few (no pants though, thank goodness) so you win that award.
      Yeah, I hear you about San Fran. And NYC. Although the more I learn about it all, it’s not really true that you “have to” and that if more parents didn’t, it would be hugely improved. Still, when it comes to your own kid, why risk it right?
      Although if we’re going to make changes, the answer is not paying for college, now. Sigh.
      XoNovember 25, 2013 – 11:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Poop on that poop! I am 100% totally convinced with you that it had to do with the school transition. Glad you got it sorted, though.

    Secondly, I am SO INTERESTED in all your thoughts and progress and talking to people about starting a school. Spill it as it comes. Please.November 25, 2013 – 2:48 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Sarah,
      I guarantee that I will spill it as I see it and as it comes. I’m doing an observation of Tucker’s PAC (preschool autism class) tomorrow after seeing the non-categorized class last week. We’ll also start looking at kindergardens soon. And if you have insight, thoughts, concerns, etc, please spill it as well!!!November 25, 2013 – 11:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Oh, and glad to hear everyone is recovering!November 25, 2013 – 2:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Beth teliho - Aw, I’m so sorry you guys were sick! Hope everyone is feeling better soon. And Yay POOP! I know this can be one of the most difficult things for them to consistently get. Especially boys! Hope the trend continues. I know I held my breath with both my boys until both were five. I still get accidents from time to time! But they are more from laziness than anything now….
    Anyway, school: gather all the info you can, and then go with your gut. You’ll know what to do.

    Perv? Moi? *bats eyelashes* what ever do you speak of?November 25, 2013 – 3:11 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Beth,
      Thanks, sweets! Thanks for the reminder that poop isn’t easy no matter what and for telling me that I’m not alone in that it’s okay to worry when they’re five!
      And yeah, school. Will do.
      YES YES YOU. PERVO. In the best of ways. I think it was the “no dry seat in the house” that got me…but mmmm Alexander S. He’s mine.November 25, 2013 – 11:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Out One Ear - Linda Atwell - This naked cake stuff, like your usual posts, is hilarious. I like my cake frosted, but I’d be willing to eat cake naked (alone) if someone brought me some. Hint, hint.

    The part about school is scary, I guess. For me, I still didn’t realize to what extent Lindsey had issues and just sent her to the local grade school. This generation parents so differently than our parents. We like to be so much more involved, and with our special kids, rightfully so. I think I’m just lucky Lindsey did well in spite of her mother going along with whatever the school suggested. . 🙂

    And congrats on the pooping. I say whatever works is what’s good. I was lucky (again) in that dept. both my kids potty trained easily. I have no idea why. I even potty trained my nephew who was having a harder time with pooping. My sister loved me afterwards. I really can’t tell you how I did it because I’m sure Tucker would be traumatized. All I can say is that I loved Evan (my nephew) dearly and he loved me. He rarely did anything wrong…. Back to my daughter, I had so many other struggles with Lindsey, I’m glad potty training wasn’t one of them. 🙂

    Happy thanksgiving to you and your family, Kristi. I hope you will be done with the amazing antibiotics by then.November 25, 2013 – 5:35 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Linda,
      Thanks for liking the naked cake!! When it comes to schools, I think it’s actually a problem that we have so many options because then none of them look perfect, you know? And we start to second-guess ourselves so much and it’s hard to NOT believe that x program vs. y program would actually make a bigger difference because so many of us have had programs that DID make a difference (here it was PAC and ABA but impossible to know scientifically if it would have happened otherwise – my guess is no, but without a test to test, well…) Sigh. We’re going to see what the team suggests, after Tucker’s main teacher is back (been out for 5 weeks due to personal reasons).
      Thank you for the poop congrats!!! I’m glad that wasn’t one you had to deal with when it came to Lindsey.
      And!!! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family Linda! You’re such a great friend. And yeah, I hope the antibiotics kick in more by then too. My eyes are fine. I just lost my voice (weird??).
      xoNovember 25, 2013 – 11:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Louise - Poop’s a big deal. I cheered for your success on that front. We had problems the other way last year. As in the “I’m holding this in and NEVER going ’cause it’s yucky and btw mommy I don’t feel good and suddenly look about 5 months pregnant.” My daughter’s issues might have been tidier – but still no fun. Over a year later she still mostly refuses to go in the potty (unless she’s in a good mood and decides to “make me so proud”) Thankfully she at least has a sense of public/private and so – until now – only poops her pants at home. But all that to say – we’re still working it out and I’m hoping she doesn’t have issues at school.

    As for your school stresses – I hope you figure out something that works. It’s a big step – and I’m not sure I can quite imagine the added stress/decision/thought that goes into it when you have a child with additional needs. All the best on that front.

    As for the soap opera analogy – wow, I apparently need to read more frequently, because I missed a bunch of the pre-naked-cake show 🙂 Like sand through the hourglass …November 25, 2013 – 9:04 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - Louise,
      Poop IS a big deal!! Thanks for the cheers. We had a similar thing when we first potty trained where Tucker just didn’t go for five days. We panicked when we heard the docs would just get it out themselves, and gave him a diaper. Ugh. Good job on getting your daughter to not have issues at school!
      Thanks for the encouragement about school. ANd hahaha to being introduced to the soap opera aspect of it! Love it!November 25, 2013 – 11:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy @ i can say mama - Why for heaven’s sake did you say that your list feels inadequate?? Seriously, yours is far more creative than mine! xo Loved the introduction! 🙂

    Sorry to hear that you were sick. Hope you are feeling better now! As for the pink eye I have had it before, too. It is a bacterial infection so anyone can get it. It sucks but I am glad that the antibiotics helped quickly.

    The school question… *sigh* I totally get you. You know how much I struggled. And we only had two options to choose from. I wonder how difficult it must be with plenty of possibilites at your hand, always wondering if your choice is wrong or right. I am sorry that I probably will not be able to help you with this since your system is totally different from ours but I am sure you will get plenty of good advice from others who are familiar with the system over there *hugs*.

    Last but not least, happy happy happy that Tucker pooped in the potty!!! That’s huge!! Yay! Sorry though that he had to got “through” so many pooped pants before he succeeded. That must have been frustrating for him.

    Take care, dear friend! Mwah!November 26, 2013 – 4:46 amReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - Oh man- I HATE pink eye!!! Been there done that many times, my friend. And it ain’t pretty. Literally.

    I do pray you find your answers with school for Tucker!! And I am THRILLED that you are having success with his pooping in the potty!!!! That is HUGE my friend!!!

    I don’t watch the Ten Things soap opera, or I would chime in on that one… 😉

    Love your list- all of it!!November 26, 2013 – 11:57 amReplyCancel

  • K - So sorry to hear you’ve been sick…I’ve been sick too. 🙁 I’m glad you’re feeling better though!

    Good luck with the school thing, and I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

    It’s wonderful, as always, to read your words. xoxoNovember 27, 2013 – 12:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Joy,
    I just felt like I did it at the last minute, which is when I do everything, sadly *refer to your procrastination post please.

    I’m feeling better but have crappy voice and cough. Tonight, Tucker said mouth. Which means maybe it hurts??? UGH, we don’t know. Supposed to drive almost 7 hours tomorrow for the holiday but ????
    I know how much you struggled with the school question, too.. I am still struggling with it but will have another observation day on tuesday. the thing that sucks is that it’s almost “pick this or that” which I’m NOT fine with…thanks for all…November 27, 2013 – 9:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Chris,
    I know. Sucks. I pray for you and hope you are okay..so much.November 27, 2013 – 9:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kerry,
    OMG I read!! How damn scary!!! For real scary and that nurse? Was a bitch! Not just stupid!!! UGH. I’m glad you have such good friends at school. Commented over at your place but for real. So glad to know you and so sad (and maybe she learned something??_) about that jerk of a nurse!!November 27, 2013 – 9:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Mike - Obviously plenty has transpired since you wrote this. That was interesting to read about Tucker and the school. Fascinating how sensitive kids can be to even subtle changes in routine. Though the “free environment” was probably quite abrupt huh, Kristi? Enjoying the journey backwards (my reading) always 🙂February 28, 2014 – 1:21 amReplyCancel

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