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

When I was a kid, I thought that if I stood perfectly still, breathed justright, and positioned myself justso, that I was invisible. I’m think I may have passed the Magical Invisible Gene onto my son.        I believed that there was an evilish witch who lived under my bed. She could only move […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Janine Huldie - Kristi, you described the magic of being a kid quite perfectly here and as I said in my post, I vaguely remember feeling this way, but know I did and still can’t believe how long ago this was for me. Loved the ending too with Tucker!! 🙂November 7, 2013 – 10:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Janine,
    Thank you. I was really rushing on this one and had such better things in mind but thanks for getting it!November 7, 2013 – 10:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Courtney - Kids are magic. I love your photos and I read every post, even if I don’t tell youNovember 7, 2013 – 10:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - Oh Kristi- I just soaked in every single word.

    Ahhh….

    Lovely. Just lovely.November 7, 2013 – 10:16 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - That was beautiful. I sometimes miss that magical thinking I had as a child. It reminds me of that line Ally Sheedy says in the Breakfast Club about when you become a grown-up, your soul dies. OK, now I’m depressed. And I love that second picture you drew- super creepy-cool! Also- beheadables is the best word ever. Nice one.November 7, 2013 – 10:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - What a perfect combination of humor, silliness, and that awesome Kristi-ness I have come to love. The part about looking at life justright so we can fly – that’s the Kristi-ness. And now I’ll be singing “I Believe I Can Fly” for the rest of the evening.November 7, 2013 – 10:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Courtney,
    Kids are so magic. And I read all of your posts, too. Even when I don’t tell you, either. XO, friend. Peace and magic.
    —
    Chris,
    Ahhh right back at you, sistah.
    —-
    Steph,
    Magical thinking takes WORK, right?? Don’t be depressed. We get a second chance through our kids.
    And yeah, I like beheadables, too 😉
    —November 7, 2013 – 10:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Dana,
    I believe I can fly too! Well, almost. I should probably lose some weight.
    —November 7, 2013 – 10:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Kelly McKenzie - Love that ending – the fact that we recapture the magic!
    While I didn’t behead my Barbies very often I did once in a while. I remember that my Ken’s head refused to come off. In fact I don’t believe it ever did. My sister and I would play “Barbies” outside in the hot sun in the Summer and honestly they would melt. The noses would moosh to the side and the chins would droop. Instant aging! Had to park them in the freezer for a bit before we could play again.
    Love, love your pictures at the end!November 7, 2013 – 10:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Kathy Radigan - You summed up my childhood perfectly!!! I love how you describe the magical thinking that so many of us use to get through our childhoods with. Thanks for bringing me back!! xoNovember 7, 2013 – 10:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - HAHA Kelly! They melted!!??? Really? I used to chop my Barbies’ hair off to. It never grew back which was just sad.November 7, 2013 – 10:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kathy,
    Thank YOU friend. I really needed more time on this and didn’t have it today so thanks for getting it anyway!!
    —November 7, 2013 – 10:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - I love this! So magical. Love the photos, too. That last one is so cool!November 7, 2013 – 11:10 pmReplyCancel

  • April - Have you ever seen the movie Dolls (I think)? You were so right to behead the dolls. They do have magical powers!November 7, 2013 – 11:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Heather - This was magical. My 8 year old thinks her dollhouse people can move at night, but in a nice way. Occasionally I rearrange them or move to weird places in the house – not ready for her to lose that kid magic yet.November 7, 2013 – 11:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Don - Awe, you rock!

    I had an embarrassing nonsexual relationship with a pillow when I was younger, but that’s not important.November 8, 2013 – 12:05 amReplyCancel

  • Joelle Wisler - Love. Love. Love this. Beautifully written and takes me back to my own stuffed animal crises. I never beheaded them but they for sure came to life at night.November 8, 2013 – 12:23 amReplyCancel

  • Natalie - The Cat Lady Sings - I love your rendering of childhood here. Your outlook sounds similar to mine…I remember looking for fairies among the flowers. 🙂November 8, 2013 – 12:43 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Does every kid have a witch or a monster under their bed then? The one which tries to attack when they get up to pee…?

    I love that there are still moments when you fly, though 🙂 That’s awesome 😀November 8, 2013 – 1:55 amReplyCancel

  • Lizzy - Muddle-Headed Mamma - I used to think my stuffed animals came to life when I slept too! Love the story about your brother – that’s hilarious. Does he still speak to you?? LOL. I know exactly what you mean about our classmates feeling like the centre of our universe. I had trouble remembering an old classmates last name the other day. I couldn’t believe it. I used to know everyone’s middle names, siblings names, birthdays and most of their telephone numbers by heart. What happened?? I’m going to guess that you’re the little blonde girl in the front row with the red/orange jumper? Love this post 🙂November 8, 2013 – 4:05 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Awww, this post made me smile. I was trying to click the class picture so I could see it better. I am going to go with the girl on the first row, red top, plaid pants?

    So true – even to this day – if my mom gives me a kiss on the forehead – all better.November 8, 2013 – 7:33 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Little kid Kristi is just a little too cute for words here.
    When I was a kid, I didn’t think I could fly but I thought I would, ya know? I thought it was inevitable. That I was chosen, special. Or it would be invented. Something. Then I got older and learned we can’t fly, in the way I thought we could.
    But we can fly. And Tom Petty’s “Learning To Fly” is one of my top ten songs of all time.November 8, 2013 – 7:44 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - I’ve always thought little kids were magic. I have spent my life surrounding myself with children because they don’t see the flaws – they just see the magic. I wish we cold hold onto that magic forever! Then, we could all fly together. 🙂November 8, 2013 – 9:29 amReplyCancel

  • Emily - I just love how you can remember many of the magical moments from your childhood…I wish I could remember like that. Maybe my dementia started when I was 3? Anyway, very sweet post. My youngest son talks about how he wishes he could fly..:)November 8, 2013 – 9:37 amReplyCancel

  • Emily - Oh and I forgot to say, that story about your brother and introducing him as Michelle — hilarious. You’re lucky if he’s still talking to you today.:)November 8, 2013 – 9:38 amReplyCancel

  • Lanaya | Raising Reagan - I loved reading all these posts today from everyone. It’s nostalgic to think back at what we used to believe, feel and think when we were kids.
    Especially that we had no cares in the world and that our parents were awesome giants who could fix things with kisses or shatter our worlds when we got punished.
    Now we get to be those people for our kids. Funny how that happens.

    ¤´¨)
    ¸.•*´
    (¸¤ Lanaya | xoxo
    http://raising-reagan.comNovember 8, 2013 – 12:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Chris at Hye Thyme Cafe - I’m usually pretty unflappable, but you’re lucky I wasn’t your Mom! Had I found a box of heads and another of bodies, I would have had you at a shrink in a flash … or at least started keeping track of all the neighborhood pets to make sure you weren’t a serial killer in training. 😉November 8, 2013 – 1:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - Holy crap you were Sid from Toy Story? Seriously demented my friend and I will now have bad dreams when I think of Abby all alone in her room with the scary barbiesNovember 8, 2013 – 1:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Is that you in the plaid pants on the front row? The picture is so small it’s hard to tell, but that little girl is blond. If it is you, FABULOUS pants.November 8, 2013 – 1:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Laura - I love your photos, especially the older one’s. I love looking at old pictures. Thanks for sharing!November 8, 2013 – 1:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - You never cease to amaze me. I love that my children remind me how amazing things are. Lovely post.November 8, 2013 – 3:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Beth Teliho - damnit woman, your posts always make me all teary eyed. Very beautiful though, as always. True, and funny, and lovely. and because I’m so uncomfortable with touchy-feely, I’m compelled to yell FUCK! there. I feel better. I’m so immature.

    Also, are you in the front row, red shirt? I’m trying to guess based on hair.November 8, 2013 – 3:44 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - hey is the contest over??

    (wait a minute… I’m down to 2…. the one with the elephant on her chest in red and white in the front row or the clark at the right end of the back row)

    (damn can’t tell ages here would make a difference…)

    gonna have to go with the back row far right (in blue)

    where the hell is my prize?!?November 8, 2013 – 3:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Bianca @ Track Pants and a Tot - It’s so easy to forget how magical being a kid could be. When it’d be ok to just let your imaginations go wild, to dream without worrying or caring about what anyone else thought. It’s bittersweet when we write “friends forever” all over our middle school yearbooks, only to open up that same book decades later & not recognize anyone’s faces or remember their names. I just wish we could all go back to a simpler time & live as carefree as we once did.November 8, 2013 – 6:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa - You captured so many feelings of childhood and the photos and illustrations were perfection! The witch drawing with you running along the top of the bed is a classic. I mean that is how EVERY 7 year old pees at night…right?! Your feelings of flying were poignant and nostalgic because I think I mostly forget that feeling. And your post reminded me it’s still there. Thank you:).November 8, 2013 – 8:41 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - I love that you used so many different experiences to capture the magical world of a child. Here’s to Tucker’s own magical world! I hope the beheadables (great word) pass him by…November 8, 2013 – 9:16 pmReplyCancel

  • Rich Rumple - Sis, you’d be the last person I’d expect to have wings! lol Did you really hide under the bed? Damn, if I’d have known you I could’ve turned you on to magic covers! It had to be much more comfortable that that cold, hard floor. I really didn’t know much about unicorns, back then. Maybe I missed out on something! The picture was way too small to see which one was you. I’m guessing the front row with the red top. Nice the way you ended this. Good job!November 8, 2013 – 10:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Louise - Ah – I believed my dolls came to life, but they were nice. There were evil beings that came to life and danced on the floor or my room – and so I had to stay tucked into bed.

    I too use to dress my younger brother as a girl. Perhaps they should poll younger brothers to see how frequent this is…. 😉November 9, 2013 – 12:10 amReplyCancel

  • The Dose of Reality - We are kindred spirits!! I thought my dolls came to life when I wasn’t in the room and that they were evil when they did. I was terrified of being too still in my room in case they accidentally thought I was out of the room and they came to life and turned on me. HA! –LisaNovember 9, 2013 – 12:34 amReplyCancel

  • Jen - This is such a great post! I remember so many of those things myself. I got to the point where I had to have my dad hide my dolls in the rafters of the garage. And I still believe in Unicorns. If I wasn’t afraid of heights I’d want to fly, but maybe if I could fly I wouldn’t be afraid anymore…
    love you, love this tttx10 <3November 9, 2013 – 10:09 amReplyCancel

  • Katia - You perfectly capture childhood. I was reading this with a sense of longing. And that picture of Tucker running through the water is the essence of being a child. Beautiful!November 10, 2013 – 10:48 amReplyCancel

  • Shay - I love this Finish the Sentence, because although I didn’t participate (I need to try to get in on one of these one week), I did a post this week about something I thought was true when I was a kid…and into adulthood. Of course, it makes me look like a total dumbass, but it gave me a great laugh while writing it and thinking back, too.

    But back to you. I love this post! Like I was just telling Jen, I love a little nostalgia in my blog reading!November 10, 2013 – 11:52 amReplyCancel

  • TK - You just took me on a trip down memory lane! I was very imaginative as a child and would make up these stories in my head. Love the thought that as children, at least, we have some magic in our lives.November 11, 2013 – 12:13 amReplyCancel

  • Kate Hall - Aw, this beautiful…magical. I love it. I’m guessing you’re the one in the center wearing white and purple. Am I right? And your class was Huge! I feel like my third grade class was half that size.November 11, 2013 – 11:03 pmReplyCancel

Today’s Our Land contributor almost needs no introduction. She’s incredible. Seriously, she’s a super mom, a beautiful writer, and an amazing community builder. Lisa Nolan, from Life Happens, Then Write, is funny, full of heart and wisdom, and the mastermind behind Moms Who Write and Blog, countless networks and writing groups, and, most recently the […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • that cynking feeling - This was lovely.November 6, 2013 – 11:01 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - I think so, too! Lisa is awesome.November 6, 2013 – 11:02 amReplyCancel

  • Jean - I taught reg ed in a school that did full inclusion. My classes were always a mix of special education and reg ed students…on the roster. In the class, they were all just kids- the staff worked hard to foster this mentality but we were helped enormously from, as you wrote, their grace.It IS a beautiful thing.November 6, 2013 – 11:05 amReplyCancel

  • Jessica - This is so good. The real world isn’t monotone, and the sooner we introduce our children to be beauty of being different, the better. We all have something different to offer the world, and we learn different things from each person we meet. I think this would not only help us to all get along better, but to increase everyone’s feeling of self-worth and human-worth. Awesome post, Lisa!November 6, 2013 – 11:23 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Absolutely beautiful and do very much agree with you Kristi, this truly made me smile to read today. Thank you to Lisa for sharing here with us all, too.November 6, 2013 – 11:56 amReplyCancel

  • Jennifer Hall - Oh my gosh and Awwww! Her little guy is so cute! Love, love, love that the kids at school are so awesome.November 6, 2013 – 11:59 amReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Love it, Lisa. I really appreciated the early elementary education slant and what kids can process at what age. I got goosebumps looking at those photos of your son with his friends. <3November 6, 2013 – 12:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Really beautiful imagery here, and what a wonderful thing – to begin teaching diversity so positively from such a young age. The world needs more of that.November 6, 2013 – 12:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Lisa, I’m so glad you live in a community that is a part of Our Land. Not just for JJ and your family, but for all the children who are growing up in a place where diversity and uniqueness is appreciated and celebrated.November 6, 2013 – 2:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Out One Ear - Amen!November 6, 2013 – 6:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Out One Ear - Linda Atwell - p.s just shared this on Out One Ear FB page.November 6, 2013 – 6:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Mytwicebakedpotato - Loved this! You have a beautiful son and I love the message of starting young as we helped children understand and appreciate differences! Bravo!November 6, 2013 – 8:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Erin - kids are born full of grace. you are so right, Lisa. they are not born bullies. we are able to teach diversity early and fight back against ignorance. Thx for sharing!November 6, 2013 – 9:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Tears, yes. So much. Especially that part about the “grace of children.” So beautiful. And I love the idea of helping children learn about diversity through story-telling, which is one of my favorite things.November 6, 2013 – 9:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - So beautiful! As a former preschool teacher and child development major, I truly appreciate your developmental take on explaining difference to children. We are given a great opportunity and responsibility as parents and teachers. As you said “the grace of children” – children learn prejudice, but they can also learn acceptance and love.November 6, 2013 – 9:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Lisa-when I worked with a special needs girl I was so amazed by how accepting they were of her. I just wish that it was the same with my son. He is also special needs, but in a different way than she is. The children are not very accepting of him at all. He has a lot of issues-he’s very bright but struggles with the social aspect all the time. With the exception of a few kind students here and there most kids are quite rude and mean to my son.I’m so glad that your little guy is having a good experience!November 6, 2013 – 11:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - Wow, the combination of these beautiful images, your lovely words and your expertise on child development makes for such wonderful synergy in this piece, Lisa. I am leaving Kristi’s blog with such a happy feeling. Thank you and JJ for that! And Kristi for Our Land!November 7, 2013 – 12:05 amReplyCancel

  • Katia - So uplifting to read this post early this morning. I am SO glad you’ve experienced acceptance. As a mother of a non-special needs child I worry about the same (will my son be accepted) and could completely relate. I found this post not only uplifting but also very helpful. My son is four, but has been asking some of the questions you mention in the post as characterizing five and six-year-olds. I will make sure to have that conversation with him.November 7, 2013 – 5:50 amReplyCancel

  • K - This post is beautiful, and the ending gave me chills. Thank you. xoNovember 7, 2013 – 10:32 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Awww – happy goosebumps!November 7, 2013 – 8:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Laura - I think the schools have come a long way since when I was younger in teaching our kids acceptance and empathy for people who are different. I don’t remember having those kinds of conversations in school at all and at my daughter’s school there is an entire week that ends in a big assembly about diversity. I’m certain we still have a long way to go, but at least schools are making an effort these days.November 8, 2013 – 1:27 pmReplyCancel

  • catherine gacad - this absolutely warms my heart. i’ve always wondered why there are children who are mean and why there are some who accepting. what is the difference. we have to teach our children to be accepting.November 8, 2013 – 7:05 pmReplyCancel

I know that I am not the first to say that Caillou sucks. Tucker’s been watching the show again and I noticed something last night that was mildly disturbing to say the least. Caillou and his sister Rosy were in the tub together. Obviously, two little kids taking a bath together is totally not disturbing […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • don - Best mix tape Tuesday offering ever!!!

    While I think I would recognize his face, our kids have never gotten into Caillou or whatever his name is. I guess G$ could technically still turn to the dark side, but I’ll do my best now to steer him towards Scooby Doo like his older siblings.

    Oh, and whatever you drank or smoked to do this?? Please??November 5, 2013 – 12:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Dream - I’m so glad my son is past the Caillou (and Barney, and The Wiggles) stage. Now if I could just get him over the Spongebob Squarepants phase…November 5, 2013 – 12:24 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - What is more creepy than your singing is that you not only noticed that he had no nipples you are pretty sure he had nipples in another episode.

    You need a Calliou (what the hell kind of name is that!) intervention: go to the fridge, take out the bottle of wine, pour a glass and drink. Repeat 6 times and the image of his nipple-less body will be scrubbed from your mind.

    Now if only your singing…..November 5, 2013 – 12:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - *laughing too hard to comment*November 5, 2013 – 1:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Laura - OMG, that was absolutely priceless!!!November 5, 2013 – 1:09 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - No words and just made me that much more happy that my girls have never been into Caillou, but huge props on your video. Seriously classic!! 🙂November 5, 2013 – 1:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - I’m obsessed with this post mainly because I got to see you sort of in person!!!!!!!November 5, 2013 – 2:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - I am cracking up and I haven’t even clicked the video. You didn’t say what your singing was rated and Christopher just got home so I have to wait. LOL!!! Seriously you just made my evening more exciting.November 5, 2013 – 2:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Total, utter perfection. I started giggling way before you started. I think this needs to go viral. Yesterday.November 5, 2013 – 2:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - Now I miss you even more.

    And? When you visit?

    KARAOKE!!November 5, 2013 – 2:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Jean - I’m so happy to see YOU! Also, this was such a creative idea for a song offering. And of course I agree with you.November 5, 2013 – 3:25 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Your theme song is soooo much better than the original! Calliou is creepy, that’s all there is to it.November 5, 2013 – 3:29 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - (old Wayne and Garth)

    “I am not worthy! I am not worthy” damn! not sure if I am more impressed by the libretto or the captivating performance… I would insert some smiling and laughing icons here, but I do not have the internetal skills.

    may I repeat damn (and a lol).November 5, 2013 – 6:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Coughing/laughing nowNovember 5, 2013 – 6:11 pmReplyCancel

  • JenKehl - My Skewed View - And the Grammy for best Original Screw You Song goes tooo……. KRISTI CAMPBELL!!!!
    Holy Crap do I love you for this! How long have you been singing that in your head?! I am so glad Isaiah’s Caillou stage lasted 5 minutes, because I COMPLETELY agree!!!! I hope this post goes viral! MWAH! TTTx10 plus infinity!November 5, 2013 – 7:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - Will you PLEASE sing this song to me in person?November 5, 2013 – 8:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Georgie Lee - I can’t stand Caillou. His voice makes me want to rip my ears off.November 5, 2013 – 8:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I have several things to say about this post, so bear with me:
    First, I’m so happy I got to hear your voice and oddly enough, it’s exactly how I imagined it would sound. (If you want to imagine mine, just think Long Island drawl, not quite as bad as Fran Drescher in The Nanny, but it’s pretty bad…sorry if you thought I sounded British although for some reason my mom sounded British!)
    Second, you are one brave mama, singing in a video. Good for you. MUCH braver than me. Did you drink beforehand? I’d have to be at least two wine glasses in before singing on camera.
    And third, I am thankful that my kids stopped watching little kid TV a few years ago so that I was able to miss the Caillou craze. However, I was subjected to Teletubbies and well, I’ve said this before, but whoever made Teletubbies was definitely stoned. No question about it. I will take your word for it that Caillou is a kid who sucks, because I totally trust your opinion on many things…:)November 5, 2013 – 9:14 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - I am so glad you hit “Publish”. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I’m on the fence about my excitement to hear your voice. On one hand, I love to hear the voices of my blog friends, but on the other…well…your singing… 🙂

    Kidding! You sound great!November 5, 2013 – 9:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - Bwahaha!!! He is TOTALLY a douche and a twit. That was the biggest smile of my day. Brilliant idea. We should totally record that. 🙂 Oh, and I love seeing you on a vlog! Do it again! You are so charming!November 5, 2013 – 10:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Rich Rumple - Okay, so I posted in the wrong spot! lol Check it out above!November 5, 2013 – 11:05 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - BAHAHA! I love you Kristi!!!!November 6, 2013 – 12:18 amReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth @ Rocks, No Salt Mommy - Quite possibly my favorite thing ever. Can’t stop laughing. My husband will love this. He HATES Caillou. What is it about that kid?? He really gets on everyone’s nerves. And what the hell is he bald?? It’s so weird. Distinct possibility this could turn up on the Humor page of Margarita Mommies tomorrow…November 6, 2013 – 12:39 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - OMG! I thought this couldn’t get better, and then you made it ABILLION times better. You total legend. LOVE it 😀November 6, 2013 – 1:48 amReplyCancel

  • Joy @ i can say mama - I LOVE to see you “in person” (aka on video) and I love your little song! xoxo

    Oh, and your outtakes are even better than the song!! Hahaha!November 6, 2013 – 7:16 amReplyCancel

  • Katia - I love seeing you in person too, that’s fantastic! Also you’re a badass! In the best possible way! Love it! And the nipple part, HA!!! That’s brilliant. Where DID they go?November 6, 2013 – 9:09 amReplyCancel

  • Kelly @ Dysfunctionally Functional - I laughed so hard, but what (literally) made me pee my pants was where you flipped Caillou not just one, but TWO birds!! Fucking priceless! You’re brilliant, Kristi. ♥ (My kids never watched Caillou — thank you, God — so I cannot speak with any authority as to his nipple situation.)November 6, 2013 – 9:32 amReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Ha! I like the 3rd outtake the best. Hilarious.November 6, 2013 – 10:34 amReplyCancel

  • Slu - Now, this was a trip worth taking!!! Thanks for the smiles, SluNovember 6, 2013 – 2:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Beth Teliho - I want whatever you’re smokin’!!!! ROFLMAO over here…omg…THAT is sooo funny! I cannot believe you made a song about that douche and TAPED IT!!! I bow down to your hilarity!! Love you even more, if that’s possible. 🙂

    more ear worm:

    toilet paper, light bulbs, socks for Rosey, crayons….November 6, 2013 – 7:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Angel The Alien - HAHa! Caillou represents all that is wrong in the world! He’s such a naughty boy! And his parents are like, “Oh hello Caillou, are you setting fire to the curtains? Somebody needs a hug!”November 6, 2013 – 9:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Jen Atlas - Ah, kristi, I miss you and your mouth that spouts whatever you are thinking. Props for this song…glad my boys love trucks and not bald, nipple-free freaks. Hugs from Mile High.November 6, 2013 – 9:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - OMG. LOVE! This is hilarious, and awesome.

    Joshua isn’t allowed to watch Caillou anymore. He went through a phase where he watched it a lot and he was SO whiny. Now, he watches Octonauts and we talk about how cool sea creatures are. Much better!

    I was thinking about recording Josh singing this week for my MixTape. I may have to do that one week. I would never subject anyone to my own singing, though. Not unless I was very, very drunk. 🙂November 7, 2013 – 12:15 amReplyCancel

  • Louise - OMG – Can you do Dora next?

    Seriously.

    Yeah – we are at this stage of life. And you wanna know one of the OTHER really annoying things about this show.

    It’s a French show. We’re in Canada. In one of the parts with a large French population. We’re a bloody half French family (not me – I’m the bloody Brit descendant) and trying to get our daughter to watch more French TV. But the TV only has Caillou in English.

    A part of me dies when this show is on to begin with. Another part dies when I realize we aren’t even getting the marginal benefit of exposing her to the dominant language. Sigh.

    As for the song – LOVE IT.

    Serious, though. Dora next. Or Max and Ruby. I’m kinda torn.November 7, 2013 – 9:37 pmReplyCancel

  • Cindy - The Reedster Speaks - I love that you sang! Caillou does suck, on so so many levels.November 10, 2013 – 9:55 pmReplyCancel

This week, I am thankful that I’m not a jerk. I’ll get to that in a moment. First, I’d like to share some Halloween photos and the fact that we were not alone in dressing up with our son. I’m thankful that we, in our The Supers: Ordinary Style Halloween get-up were pictured in a lovely article in […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Don - Good for you for being so patient. Sadly, the wife and I are both always ready to snap at the next person who acts like a total inconsiderate dick in public. It rarely takes long.November 3, 2013 – 5:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Cyndi - What a great costume Tucker had! What a sweet little guy!
    As for that woman. Well…I grew up with a severely handicapped brother and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve “politely” gone up to people when they’re staring with their mouths agape and said, “did you get a good look?” Then I’d smile and walk off. People never knew what to say when I did that and it always made me laugh. You exercised brilliant restraint. I don’t know if I could have – but I would have been all passive-aggressive. haha. Like, in a loud voice said something like, “you know, inconsiderate people make me nuts.”
    LOL.
    You go, girl. Keep on rockin!November 3, 2013 – 5:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Don,
    I kindof wish I’d have said something.
    —
    Cyndi,
    Hey I might have to try the passive-aggressive move! That’s awesome!
    —November 3, 2013 – 5:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Tom - Nice costume Tucker! You went all in! Who picked it out? Looks like Dad only did the cape…lol!November 3, 2013 – 5:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Out one ear - I guess we aren’t the only family who has to deal with jerks (referring to mean man in parking lot post I wrote a week ago), which is way too bad. It’s hard when we are in the moment to hold our tongues, but I too didn’t want to be more of a jerk than I already was.

    So happy to hear it was a great Halloween for you all.

    Writing to you from Costa Rica, Kristi!November 3, 2013 – 5:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Tom,
    Robert did glasses and tie and pocket protector and fake belly AND cape! Whoot!
    —November 3, 2013 – 5:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - I can’t decide which part of this post I love most (apart from the woman, who was a TOTAL jerk, and I secretly hope that one of the waiting staff noticed and served her a sneezeburger) so I’ll just put my biggest, shiniest seal of approval on the whole thing, and say thank you SO much for sharing it.

    Actually, no, I think I decided my favourite part. The gorgeous Tucker-after-bath-snuggly-photo. The boy is simply GORGEOUS. And wonderful. And didn’t he do SO WELL at trick-or-treating 😀

    This is my smiliest moment of the evening. Thanks. I needed it.November 3, 2013 – 5:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Kathy at kissing the frog - First off, what a great article on Today.com – so cool you got to be in it! Second off, that lady – Pffft! If anyone is saying stuff about me and my kids, I don’t notice anymore because I’m too busy. I’ve had my share of things said about my kids. I figure they either never had kids or just had one perfect little angel (Pa-ha!), or it was soooo long ago they don’t remember. I definitely operate by the “pick your battles” rule. That equals survival to me. xoNovember 3, 2013 – 5:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Tatum - Tucker, I think you’re who God had in mind when he created superman. And Kristi, if your drawing is anything like her dress, you definitely should have commented on it…”hey bitch, Barney called and he wants his costume back!”

    In my book that’s not all being a jerk 🙂November 3, 2013 – 5:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandy Ramsey - I’m always amazed that people act so ignorantly. Good for you for taking the high road. I don’t think I could have done it.
    So on to a much better subject, your little boy is superb! God love him, the superhero! I’m glad he had a great Halloween!November 3, 2013 – 6:20 pmReplyCancel

  • GirlieOnTheEdge - First off, you guys look so cute! Great pictures! Every kid should always have fun on Halloween:) Has he consumed all his loot yet?:)
    Did mom and dad help with that? lol
    You showed great restraint with the ignorant woman. No doubt because of Tucker. Sometimes a look can be worse than words. Next time give her the look that stops trains and buses:)November 3, 2013 – 7:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - I’m thankful for you because that made me LOL and I’m thankful for Tucker because he is a beautiful, wonderful boy. You most certainly are not a jerk, but that lady deserved was! 🙂November 3, 2013 – 7:09 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Ok, seriously you are so not a jerk and give you such credit for refraining from answering this woman, because she truly was a creep for her reactions, as well as what she said to her husband. Nothing is worse then those who are judgmental and don’t think before they speak. And Tucker was adorable as Superman!! 🙂November 3, 2013 – 7:28 pmReplyCancel

  • nothingbythebook - I love you, you awesome not jerk, you. xoxoNovember 3, 2013 – 7:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - I can’t stop giggling at your rendition of her dress. And calling her “asswipe”, even if it didn’t really happen. I’m really happy you’re not a jerkface either. Some people suck at life, no need to sugarcoat that one.
    We had an experience in a restaurant with a jerkface recently. Des was screeching loudly. Decidedly more annoying than Tucker, I bet. The lady was rude. We let it slide. The waitress didn’t and called her a “snot” out loud. And then said that people who hate noises and babies should just stay home.

    True story.November 3, 2013 – 7:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Jean - I’m looking for the photo of my husband wearing shorts while digging us out of the snow from the 2011 blizzard.November 3, 2013 – 7:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - See…she CANNOT be thankful she is not a jerk, because she is a jerk. You, on the other hand, are not. You are not only not a jerk, but you are a super cute and lovely family. Now, I want to blow on Tucker’s noodles!November 3, 2013 – 8:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - Wow–you’re famous! 🙂 It looks like your family had a wonderful time on Halloween.

    I’m sorry about the woman at the restaurant. You exercised great restraint. There must be a clever, yet polite comeback, but I haven’t perfected it. Something along the lines of “I’m so sorry–you obviously have not had the privilege of raising a child with special needs, and I’m sure that ignorance contributes to your displeasure.”November 3, 2013 – 8:36 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - allowing that I am not a good kids adult, I will simply say, ‘Photo 2’… says it all for the fact of Tucker’s take on the evening…
    as to your co-diner (I will now appropriate and mangle a time-honored joke)… you know, Kristi, those of us who write successful blogs are in no small way experts on human behavior and character. The Wakefield Doctrine is a blog about personality types so I feel qualified in offering my insight into the personality and resultant behavior of the woman at the restaurant, it’s simple! she’s an asshole.

    (op cit. this weather woman).

    lolNovember 3, 2013 – 9:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Dyanne @ I Want Backsies - First thing I noticed in your pictures: Tucker’s kissable bare toes peeping out from under his Superman costume. Second thing I noticed was the hideous dress on your rendition of the woman in the restaurant.

    Do you think Tucker would go to the bank with me and ask, “Can I have money, pwese?” I’ll bring a bushel basket to hold all the cash they’d throw to us.November 3, 2013 – 10:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - I soooo admire your self-restraint. I just KNOW I would not have been able to control myself. My mom used to say I inherited her feisty Bronx (NY) genes. And as for wearing shorts in “cool” weather, she would have just loved to see my boys, who wear shorts year-round!!November 3, 2013 – 10:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Shay - First off, look at you go, Hollywood!! That article is way too cool!

    Secondly, I know that you already realize this, but that woman’s sour face and attitude and comment were all about HER, not about you. She’s an unhappy wench. You can’t control people, but you can control your reactions to them. I say don’t let it get to you. It’s easier said than done, but seriously, if you let people like this bother you, they win. And we don’t want the jerks to win!

    Last, I’m thankful you’re not a jerk, either. I prefer my friends to be SKANKSTAS. 🙂November 3, 2013 – 11:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Misty - i think it must be a “southern” thing because people often give dirty looks and comment when they think children are not dressed appropriately for the weather. i am very guilty of this, but i try to limit my judginess to people with infants! usually just raised eyebrows and a fleeting thought of “i can’t beleive they don’t have a blanket over that baby!” and them i’m on my way.

    the great thing is, since tuck was having such an awesome evening, that lady just thought you were a bad parent and your kid was underdressed and adorable!

    i gotta know, were you still wearing your costume at the restaurant? oh, and you’re my halloween heros for dressing up as a family!November 4, 2013 – 5:42 amReplyCancel

  • Katia - You’re the opposite of “jerk”, my friend, and it’s so sad that the world is full of self-appointed judges. Like the (is it North Dakota?) Halloween lady. I was thinking about this a lot this week. The best thing to do with jerks is ignore them (easier said than done, I know) and know that you are contributing to promoting kindness with your Our Land series and this particular blog hop. You’re awesome 🙂November 4, 2013 – 6:05 amReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Wow, what a complete bitch. I admire your self restraint. Tuck looked so happy, who cares.November 4, 2013 – 7:39 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri - HA! Totally not a jerk but instead of telling her he is on the spectrum you can do what David did recently (really loudly): Boo go say hi to that lady next to us, she looks like she could use a hug 🙂

    On another note, so freaking happy for you that Halloween was a success. WOO HOO TUCKERNovember 4, 2013 – 8:49 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - She was a jerk. I am glad you were able to keep your cool. Go Tucker – I want to clap when I get me long awaited yummy food too.

    I got tickled seeing his toes sticking out of his costume in the first picture 😉

    P.S. Back to being good with Kristi sandwiches and such. My fat pants are getting tight and my bras are killing me.November 4, 2013 – 8:56 amReplyCancel

  • Kate - That lady needs to get a life. Seriously. I can see how she might be frustrated if it was a 9pm dinner on a Friday and the kids were running around the restaurant naked. But sweetly clapping for mac and cheese? Sounds like something I would do!November 4, 2013 – 10:55 amReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - Oh, my. I admire your restraint.

    So glad that most of the evening was met with kindness. And cool that you were featured on The Today page with Ms Bullock!

    I won’t say what Mean Lady’s mouth looks like in her Portrayal #2. But I will say that the artist has a remarkable sense for realism.November 4, 2013 – 11:26 amReplyCancel

  • catherine gacad - i can’t stand people who don’t mind their own beeswax!November 4, 2013 – 1:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Kari - Ok, seriously! I want to beat this lady up! It doesn’t sound like to me he was doing anything… “spectrum-y”….for her to get her pants all in a bunch! And even if he was behaving …spectrum-y…she had no right to judge.

    I am thinking she probably a) does not have any kids b) has ONE …”perfect” kid or c) has douchebag tendencies she apparently has no control over or b) and c)

    Pah.

    I have a similar story…the long version is too long to post here..and I can’t write about it on my blog because the person who made me feel like this lady made you feel probably reads my blog. The short version is that at the time, my husband was working a lot of Sundays, which meant I ‘manned’ church with THREE SMALL children BY MYSELF! One Sunday when I was having a particularly bad morning just generally-speaking. I was weary of doing the “single mom” thing. My three kids were being fairly good, but were getting into their “quiet” bags of things to do, eating their cheerios. But, generally being good & quiet. Then, the lady in front of me kept turning her head around and then turning back around & shaking her head in disgust at my bratty children. She kept doing this. I wanted to run out with all three kids in tow, and bawl. Hindsight, I wished I had. This lady? She was in category b). She had ONE kid and had NO CLUE what it was like to wrangle THREE of them by oneself! Ok… my rant over.

    All that to say…I feel your pain. And kudos to you for taking the high road and not being a jerk back to her! *loud claps all around* Who cares who looks and “tsk’s” at us!!November 4, 2013 – 1:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - OMG – your pic is brushing elbows with Sandra B’s pic – how cool is that! As for ugly dress lady – she’s a douche. My kid wears shorts every day unless it’s snowing. It’s what boys do. She should worry about herself and keep her mouth shut. I’m thankful you aren’t a jerk too, Kristi – but that woman does need a talking-to.November 4, 2013 – 2:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Anita@ Losing Austin - Umm, what happened there was typical little boy behavior- when they’re being good! Sheesh lady. Just be a jerk next time.

    signed,
    the passive aggressive would have done the same thing friend.

    p.s. the halloween things were just typical little boy too! Mine kept saying he was done and wanted to go home but we still had a ways to walk and older brother wasn’t done, so he was a trooper but not as sweet by the end.November 4, 2013 – 5:37 pmReplyCancel

  • meeshie - I’m a jerk. I swallowed too much for too many years and now I don’t bother to very often.

    I’ll meet you for lunch sometime and tell off the idiots for you. 😉November 4, 2013 – 7:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Laura - I’ve been known to make my own comments, like when I see a the two sisters (5 & 8) running around the neighborhood after dark, but I can’t recall ever being such a judgmental ass to comment on a kid needing mom to blow on their food. Hell, I still blow on my own, so why not there’s. You’re a better person than me, because I would have said something! Shame on her for being such a bitch. From what I can see here, you’re doing awesome and he looks like pretty happy kid.November 4, 2013 – 8:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Robbie - I cannot imagine the restraint it took to NOT be a jerk to that asshat! Loved the Halloween costumes.November 8, 2013 – 10:27 pmReplyCancel

There are days when I wish to be a more perfect mom. Days like today, for instance. Days like today when my husband came home, asked me how we were doing, and I tried not to cry. I felt like a failure today. Me: I wish that I were more perfect. I wish to be a […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Mytwicebakedpotato - Beautiful and emotional! I struggled to read it on my phone because I needed both hands to wipe the tears streaming down my face.
    I have had those days, more than you know, and I also know that you are stronger than you know! You are stronger than that life that tries to push you down 😉 Blessings to you and yours!October 29, 2013 – 12:31 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - My TBP…
    YOU are stronger than you know…and thank you. huge hearts to you and yours…Maybe we’re all stronger than we know???October 29, 2013 – 12:48 amReplyCancel

  • Out One Ear - Linda Atwell - Unfortunately there are days like this. I used to have more than I do now, but I remember them vividly. Too vividly. I could feel your pain. But the, years ago, I sort of figured that maybe we didn’t appreciate our good days (good moments) if we didn’t have some imperfect doozies to compare them to. Of course, I’d prefer to just have the good/perfect days and forget the awful ones. I hope you get lots of sleep tonight. I hope Tucker sleeps tonight. And I know tomorrow will be so much better. Hugs to you, Kristi.October 29, 2013 – 12:51 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Linda,
    I’m going to bed now. I think. Yes, yes I am. Rightnow. And thank you my dear friend for ALWAYS being Right Here, Right Now. Hugs to you, right back…October 29, 2013 – 1:25 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - I had a day a bit like that yesterday, too. Emma has had a fever on and off again since Saturday night when she threw up in bed. Thankfully no more throwing up. We went to the doctor on Sunday instead of soccer and of course just viral, but couldn’t send her to school with a fever yesterday, so we sat and did her schoolwork (practice the the letter day), made and decorated a feather and then she wanted to use K-5 Learning on my computer (she is becoming addicted to this) and read a Halloween book, too. So, I gave her all my attention happily while Lily was in pre-school. As much as I knew I had so much to do, it was absolutely perfect for those 2 hours and wouldn’t have had it any other way. Hope Tucker is feeling better and truly just that time of the year I suppose for kids to start getting sick again.October 29, 2013 – 7:44 amReplyCancel

  • Rachel - “There were perfect moments woven between the lines of my imperfect parenting.” I will remember this line when I’m feeling like a lousy mom — which is often. Your honesty and heart continue to inspire me to LIVE my life, as imperfect as it may be. Thank you for that. I think it’s what our children need from us most of all…not perfection but humanity and connection and the moments in between the fact that life can suck. Beautiful post…And I’m in awe of the fact that you find encouragment in our friendship, because you are such an inspiration to me and everyone. I am glad to be your friend. xoOctober 29, 2013 – 8:55 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Would it be terribly cliche if I said this post is absolutely perfect?!?!?! Well, I’m saying it anyway because it is. I think so many of us feel this way so often. We think if we are not perfect 100% of the time then we are not doing it well enough. We have to cut ourselves some slack and hold on to those perfect moments amidst our imperfect days and our imperfect lives. I love this!October 29, 2013 – 9:08 amReplyCancel

  • Emily - Thanks…I needed this one today. I’ve been promoting Scary Mommy’s project, but have been lax about helping…I’m clicking and going over there right now to sponsor a family too. You’re right – it feels so much better to help others when things don’t feel so great at home.October 29, 2013 – 9:31 amReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Sweet lady, you are as perfect as
    They come.October 29, 2013 – 10:32 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Janine,
    Your two hours sounds perfect! Glad you had some time alone with Emma. Sounds like it was really lovely for you both.
    —
    Rachel,
    I’m glad to be your friend, too. And you’re right – they simply need connection and humanity from us.
    —
    Lisa,
    Aw, thanks, friend! We do need to cut ourselves some slack, don’t we?
    —
    Emily,
    I love that you’re sponsoring a family too!
    —
    Deb,
    XO.
    —October 29, 2013 – 2:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - First, thank you for lighting a fire under my ass – I went over to Scary Mommy and sponsored a family too. When I get all whiny about my imperfect days, I try to remember that other moms have to worry about feeding their children. You are the perfect mom for Tucker – and if you ever need a reminder of that, you know where to find me.October 29, 2013 – 3:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Dana,
    So glad that you went and sponsored a family! Awesome! And awww….thanks for saying that I’m the perfect mom for Tucker. I guess we all have our days when we’re feeling imperfect…October 29, 2013 – 3:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Lanaya | Raising Reagan - If there is one thing I can’t stand when I’ve had a shitty day is to be asked “how do you feel about that?” What is that anyway? Ugh!

    We all have those moments, days, weeks, YEARS where we feel like we suck as a parent and we just want to be better. But our kids still think of us as heroes 9 out of 10 times. SO there is still hope for the us right??

    ¤´¨)
    ¸.•*´
    (¸¤ Lanaya | xoxo
    http://raising-reagan.comOctober 29, 2013 – 3:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Who knew life was such a grammar judge? Who knew life was so wise? I guess I probably knew both. I hope your Tuesday is better. It’s been a hectic ride for me lately. I haven’t had a good meltdown in awhile.October 29, 2013 – 3:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - Love, love, love this. You found the perfect words to describe something I feel so acutely many, many days.October 29, 2013 – 5:41 pmReplyCancel

  • Shannon Lell - I love this. I have very similar conversations with life.October 29, 2013 – 5:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - A day where there are a few perfect moments is perfect enough! You will never be a perfect mom {nor will any of us}, but you are an awesome and caring and kind and loving mother. And that’s pretty close! 🙂October 29, 2013 – 5:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Misty @ Meet the Cottons - you’re a great mom! great moms get tired…because they stay up all night with their kid. ;-}October 29, 2013 – 7:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Katia - I completely sucked today. I raised my voice and said “STOP” when Four Year Old was being extra whiny, calling everything “yucky”. It scared him and he cried and I wanted to punch myself in the throat, because who does that?? For totally selfish reasons this great dialogue was an excellent and such a wise reminder that everyone has those moments and more importantly that we can only strive for perfect moments. Not Perfect life. Thank you, my dear friend and I’m sorry your day sucked yesterday and glad Rachel was there for you 🙂October 29, 2013 – 9:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Mama C. - Wow. Talk about timing. I FELT this post, albeit for reasons a bit different than yours: I’m still trying to manage brushing my teeth, nursing a newborn, making the bed, and getting breakfast on the table for DS all before noon. Perfectly imperfect? Yeah, that would totally be me. Just trying to hold it together and not cry in my coffee.October 29, 2013 – 10:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - My days like that come in weeks. Especially this one, and it’s only Wednesday. I only wish I could say it was because I was up with a sick child. No, I’ve been up worrying about my children while they are fast asleep, because I’m ridiculous like that. Stupid anxiety…

    Supermama Kristi, you said it so well. Maybe Life needs to have a talk with me too. 😉October 30, 2013 – 1:22 amReplyCancel

  • Jhanis - Parenting is hard, not to mention the other roles that we have to fill as a spouse, as a sister, friend or daughter. The only thing that keeps me sane is to focus on the good things and not think too much of my blunders as a parent. We do our best but sometimes we suck. Let’s embrace our suckiness because other than that, we are parents trying to be good at it. That should count at least.
    You rock mama.October 30, 2013 – 5:35 amReplyCancel

  • TK - There are so many days when I feel exactly that. As humans (and especially as moms), we are built to be never satisfied with anything less than perfect. Which is a good thing because then we keep trying to do better. Sometimes, though, it gets so overwhelming but all you really need is a hug. Hugs! I hope the little guy is doing better.October 30, 2013 – 8:18 amReplyCancel

  • Anita@ Losing Austin - <3October 30, 2013 – 2:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Yep I’m feeling like I could write a whole blog post in response to this but I’m one my phone at football practice and would be pissed if I lost it. Anyway I’ll keep copying just in case. Monday I had a less than perfect day as I sat in the car inside of the garage with my son having a grown conversation about what I do all day. On the way home he had asked what was for dinner. That always rubs me wrong because what if I hadn’t put chicken in the crockpot at 7am. Then he asked what color was the chicken. I understood this as him not liking the last chicken I cooked in the crockpot because It got a little dry and scorched. He wanted to know why we could have fried fish and French fries like I made on Sunday. I didn’t lose my cool but he just hit a nerve – a nerve that made my eyes water and nose run. A nerve that sent me into time out that did not work. A nerve that sent me to the shower to have a big girl cry. I was less than perfect because I couldn’t recover that night to be friendly and sit with him while he ate dinner. Even after ate everything on his plate and asked if I was mad and him I couldn’t entertain his question without sadness or crying again. We all human and sometimes a moment in time is too big to handle with perfection.October 30, 2013 – 6:16 pmReplyCancel

  • another jennifer - Love this post. We are all so tough on ourselves as moms. We are perfectly imperfect. I think we should embrace that. Giving always makes things feel better doesn’t it?October 31, 2013 – 1:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Lizzy - Muddle-Headed Mamma - A beautifully honest post which would strike a chord with every parent who strives to be the best that they can be. I love how you write “you realize that Living is, by nature, perfectly imperfect”. Such a timely reminder to me and, I’m sure, to so many others. Don’t beat yourself up because you weren’t feeling perfect. You were tired. Exhausted probably. The photo of you and Tucker on the slide is so gorgeous. I can tell from everything I have read and seen that you have written, drawn and photographed that you are an incredible mother. Have a wonderful Halloween and a fantastic weekend 🙂October 31, 2013 – 6:22 pmReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - Ah…perfect moments are gifted. Exactly that. We all have our fair share of shit…ahem…me…but you do have to look for those moments. They mean more than a million “perfect” days. We all can’t be on the ball all the time and yes we do get lost in all of the busy, but the good outweighs the bad every single time. Your son won’t remember the shit day, he will remember all of those wonderful ones.November 1, 2013 – 9:39 amReplyCancel

  • Laura - Beautiful post….life is all about helping others….perfect or not.November 1, 2013 – 2:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - I totally get this. I beat myself up everyday, about everything. My goal for by the end of 2014 is to learn to let go, to let everything be, and be thankful for who I am and what I have. Because, I think no matter what happens, however imperfectly, it’s all part of some perfect plan that we won’t really see the whole of until it’s all done. And unless we appreciate those small glimpses of perfect, we will probably regret wasting our time feeling bad about things that are not perfect. But I think you do a great job of appreciating those moments. 🙂

    Hugs to you!November 5, 2013 – 10:54 amReplyCancel

  • JenKehl - My Skewed View - I’m so glad I read this. I am so much this post. So much. Today Isaiah was so mad at me because we couldn’t make a huge Rube Goldberg machine. He had no idea what it would take and just kept getting madder at me. I finally gave up and checked out. That was bad.
    We have had lots of imperfect days since the sun went away. I am mad at the sun for that.
    Thank you for sharing this it makes me feel better to know I am not alone. <3November 5, 2013 – 11:18 pmReplyCancel

  • music promotions - I simply like the information anyone offer on the articles. I’ll take a note of ones web site along with test out just as before in this article consistently. I’m relatively selected My business is advised numerous new material appropriate listed here! Enjoy for an additional!March 15, 2014 – 11:42 pmReplyCancel

It’s been a couple of weeks since I participated in The Ten Things of Thankful. Which isn’t to say that I haven’t been thankful, as I have. But rather than go back and tell you about moments when laughter and gratitude has graced our lives, I’m going to focus on the three that are top […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Out One Ear - Linda Atwell - Awwww. A Bloggers Conference. I’m jealous! It looks like you had great fun. And I love your costumes and especially the comment from Tucker that he doesn’t know the people standing behind him. That would’ve been my son for sure. I’m glad you didn’t forgo this weeks Thankful (even though I did since I was working on a different post) because I sure love reading yours. 🙂October 27, 2013 – 11:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - WAHEYYYY! Look at what FUN the conference was. SO cool that you got to meet Dana – it looks as though the two of you had a gorgeous time – LOVE the smiley photos.

    And still completely bowled over by hearing about just HOW nice Jill S is. She’s a dear, and also YAY! for you meeting her.

    That photo of Tucker is gorgeous, and have to say, was half expecting to see him in flip-flops, but the bare feet, whilst they didn’t surprise me, are a nice touch 🙂 Amazed you still have the weather to stand bare feet in the garden. He does look absolutely super though.

    And GENUINE LOLS at the text. Uhh, NO KIDDING! Waiting an hour in line with ANY child would be painful to the Nth degree. I think Niece and Neff would manage about 5 minutes (sometimes less) with FULL ‘I’m-gonna-make-this-work’ input of Aunty magic…which gets wearing pretty quickly!October 28, 2013 – 3:03 amReplyCancel

  • Joy @ i can say mama - How cool that you got to attend your first blog conference! It must have been awesome to meet those fellow bloggers in person. I guess this will always have to be a dream for me…

    Loved your Halloween costumes! 🙂October 28, 2013 – 4:38 amReplyCancel

  • Dana - I’m so thankful I spent my Saturday with you, Kristi. Next time will have to involve less conferencing and more chatting, and some candlelight that will flatter us in the photos.October 28, 2013 – 7:00 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Loved getting to see you and some of my other favorite bloggers together. Looked like a wonderful conference and hopefully get to go to one soon if there is one in my neck of the woods. And waiting on line for an hour with any kid is not fun-trust me I have tried with both my girls and waiting nor patience is so not their forte!October 28, 2013 – 7:51 amReplyCancel

  • christine - What fun to get to meet all those lovely ladies! You look so professional with your fancy clothes and credentials hanging around your neck. 🙂
    The super hero costumes rock. Cracks me up that you felt it necessary to let us know that lumpy, high-riding beer belly was fake.
    Glad to see you back with us this week!October 28, 2013 – 7:55 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri - I can’t believe you met Dana!!! I bet she was as much fun in person as she is in the blog world. I am so glad that you went and that you had a terrific experience!October 28, 2013 – 11:05 amReplyCancel

  • Emily - Ok, so I’m super jealous you met Jill Smokler, plus a few other awesome bloggers and I’m also jealous you went to a blogging conference (forget BlogHer 14 – no way I’m traveling across the country – too cheap and too much of a hassle) although I am slightly relieved that you felt the conference was more about seeing your blogger friends. I’ve also decided that if I’m ever in a bad mood, I’m going to look at the photo of the 3 of you in costume to cheer myself up.:) And that thought bubble about Tucker’s head is just perfection!October 28, 2013 – 12:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - How jealous am I of those ladies you met?

    Our day must come (again) someday.

    And thanks for clearing up the sim vs stim.October 28, 2013 – 1:46 pmReplyCancel

  • catherine gacad - so glad you had a great time at the conference. looks like a blast.October 28, 2013 – 3:17 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - I had trouble getting past the awesomeness that is all of your Halloween costumes. Then I had trouble getting past the fact that you and Dana met. I’m so jealous. Of BOTH of you!!!! This is why I need to freeze time or bend it, or have a cape, or something.October 28, 2013 – 3:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Yvonne - Wow, you’ve been hanging out with Superman this week, and you’ve been to a blogging conference! What a week you’ve had. And what a lovely post.October 28, 2013 – 5:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Love the pics!! I have a mental bucket list if bloggers iI want to meet IRL – you’re on it 😉

    soooo how DID the “stimulator” go?October 28, 2013 – 7:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Dyanne @ I Want Backsies - That’s probably the cutest Superman I’ve ever seen. His sidekicks look like a piece of work….

    The only reason I want to go to a blogging conference is to meet some of the bloggers that I love. Pretty sure my attention span isn’t long enough to sit through sessions about blogging. I want food and friends!

    And an hour is too long to stand in line for anything except a million dollars. Okay, in actuality, I could be bought for a lot less than $1 million, but I’m not sure what that number is.October 28, 2013 – 7:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - So glad you got to go to the conference. Isn’t it awesome meeting people you read all the time IRL??? That’s how I felt at BlogHer. You’re making me want to go now! Even though I’m so down on bloggificating these days. Hmmmm.

    Still love the superfamily photo. Too,too funny.October 28, 2013 – 9:25 pmReplyCancel

  • Shay - I LOVE these blogs!! I’d have loved to have been there, but then you’d have had to blur out my face so I could stay all on the downlow. Haha.October 28, 2013 – 9:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate - Love your costumes! And sounds like a great time at the conference. I need to go to one!October 28, 2013 – 9:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - Oh what FUN!!!!! I am SO jealous!!! Those pictures are so so sweet!! I am so glad you went Kristi… it sounds like it was WELL worth leaving Tucker and Robert standing in line for the sTimulator!! 😉 lolOctober 28, 2013 – 11:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - It sounds (and looks) like you had a great time at the conference!October 28, 2013 – 11:51 pmReplyCancel

  • don - Oh no, your hubs had to spend the whole day with his kid alone??!! That’s tragic.

    I had my three out alone (I can’t stand to stay home with them as I get cabin fever) a couple of weeks ago because the kids were off school for something or other again and I took them out to eat at a restaurant. Some woman came up and asked if I was out with the kids all alone. Uh, yes. Wow she says as though I don’t know what the fuck I’m doing and then walked away. Fuck you, lady! Real men can do such things. Lol.

    Anyway, I got sidetracked with my rant and forgot what I was going to say. Fun family though. You really should have another one. Kid that is.October 29, 2013 – 9:45 amReplyCancel

  • Jamie@SouthMainMuse - I agree. It’s wonderful to go to blogging conferences and meet old and new friends. In my experience everyone has been so welcoming. And learning great things too. That text from your husband is a riot.October 29, 2013 – 10:36 amReplyCancel

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