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

Ever had your heart broken? Ever broken a heart? I have. Both. I’m guessing that you, have, too.  I told you guys about the time that I broke the heart of a man who changed me, profusely, but that I was over it and felt bad, and didn’t know what to say.  I sent him […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Tracy@CrazyAsNormal - Then what happened? In the basement? I need the rest of the story!!! WHERE IS PAUL HARVEY WHEN YOU NEED HIM!!!!August 27, 2013 – 9:30 amReplyCancel

  • Jamie@SouthMainMuse - Gosh. I hate to think of old loves. I acted so gaga crazy, I get embarrassed thinking about it. But I did love Phil Collins. He never did us wrong, right?August 27, 2013 – 9:50 amReplyCancel

  • donofalltrades - You’re silly. FYI, we would have been epic friends had we known each other as youngsters with our walkman’s. I would have fallen in love with you but broken up with you for wearing a fannie pack or having a mole somewhere stupid or some such reason. Yeah, I was a douche like that.

    I went through a period in college where I dated women whose lives were a train wreck because I thought I could save them or some such nonsense. Anyway, one of them sort of had me as a mistress since she was dating some schmuck off and on who wanted nothing to do with her. It became my personal challenge to get her to fall in love with me, even though I wasn’t sure that I loved her. My last ditch effort was in a tavern by ourselves on a Monday night dancing to “The Dance” by Garth Brooks. It didn’t work and she’s a total mess nowadays so I think of her every time I hear Garth’s “Unanswered Prayers” instead now. Lol.August 27, 2013 – 9:54 amReplyCancel

  • Dream - I just love the way you weave a story each week in and around our theme.

    The Dance played an important role for me. As I listened to it on repeat for about the 20th time, the realization hit me to let go of my regrets about things past and enjoy the place my path had led me.August 27, 2013 – 10:20 amReplyCancel

  • Kate - I remember the days of rushing home to watch MTV or lay on my stomach ready to hit record and play at the same time to capture a song on the radio. Love that you met your DJ!August 27, 2013 – 10:58 amReplyCancel

  • Natalie - The Cat Lady Sings - Hah! I’m sorry I am capitalizing on your sorry, but man this was funny! 😉
    IN THE AIR TONIGHT – !!!! Nothing says DEEP and HEARTBREAK and HEAVY like that song.
    PS- who HASN’T sent an ex the lyrics to “The Dance”? If you’ve never done this, you probably have no soul. I also sent mine John Donne poetry. I know, I know, I’m an asshole.August 27, 2013 – 11:35 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - I totally struggled with this week’s one, but you done well.

    Is it daft that even though you spun us this amazing tale of heartbreak and romance and wrote it really well (by the way), the thing which makes me like you most is that the incorrect grammar bugs you sufficiently to mention it?August 27, 2013 – 12:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - You rule breaker you 🙂 But any post that can link Garth and Phil is pretty coolAugust 27, 2013 – 12:14 pmReplyCancel

  • troy P. - Seeing beyond a perm? Gotcha. Seeing beyond a mullet? I could see how that’s possible. Seeing beyond them BOTH? Damn girl, you must have had something akin to x-ray vision!August 27, 2013 – 12:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Lance - Digging the pictures, stories and the lists!

    well doneAugust 27, 2013 – 12:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Darla @ Moms World - What a story! Great list of songs too, love the Phil Collins one! 🙂August 27, 2013 – 2:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - Your commentary on “I’d of had to,” vs “I’d have had to” cracked me up. Now that I notice it, the “of” really bugs me too. But yeah, you can’t exactly destroy the integrity of the lyrics over grammar,huh? I loved your party story- that is so cool! And you were so right that we were help captive by the radio; I had never thought of it that way before, but as usual, you put my feelings into words in ways that would never occur to me. That’s why I love you…August 27, 2013 – 2:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - It’s so funny how love and the mixed tape seem to go hand in hand. You have captured that young love feeling so well. And that boy is cute.August 27, 2013 – 2:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Danad - 80s DJs were the best, weren’t they? And In the Air Tonight – who hasn’t slow danced to that one? Now I can’t hear it without air drumming that part in the middle – you know the part I mean. It’s awesome when we are all in the car and my husband and I do it together. The kids love that.August 27, 2013 – 3:38 pmReplyCancel

  • Lanaya | Raising Reagan - I absolutely love The Dance by Garth Brooks. It is one of the epic songs that has so much meaning.
    I too have broken hearts and had my heart broken so I get it. No lost respect here.

    Mixed tapes were all about the sad love songs weren’t they?? I think I’m going to go make one now 🙂

    ¤´¨)
    ¸.•*´
    (¸¤ Lanaya | xoxo
    Raising-Reagan.comAugust 27, 2013 – 4:41 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - (a line from an totally under-appreciated Tarantino movie*)

    “… you are so cool.”

    I like your style, Billy Cyde**

    Serially, I get a sense of your approach to Post writing…at least some of them, which in my terms, is akin to the thing we used to do as kids learning to drive, i.e. back roads, decent speed, turnoff the headlights…lol)
    But I totally get that sense of adventure, the ‘are you really going to take that path’ sensibility.
    As I said, very cool.

    *Patricia Arquette to Christian Slater…True Romance
    ** another quote …old book this timeAugust 27, 2013 – 7:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - This is amazing, ya know? I kept reading it through interruptions of Des putting Mac and cheese in my hair and of Scarlet calling her grandmother a “penis head.” Sean sucks. Maybe not. Steve Cooper is amazing. Lets be friends.August 27, 2013 – 7:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Amy (My Real Life) - Great songs, great stories, great blog!August 28, 2013 – 6:39 amReplyCancel

  • GirlieOnTheEdge - Kristi! I love your posts that make me smile enough to show teeth and insist I laugh.(cartoon!). So I decided this morning that when I move back up there, you and I are so going for cocktails:)
    Mr. Brooks… I was managing a record store when he hit the big time. Weirdly, I remember his No Fences cd. Couldn’t keep it in stock and surprisingly, I found myself liking a coupla songs off it.
    This business of mix tapes to ex’s and such. Here’s my question (preceded by a statement)As far as I can recollect, I only made one mix tape for a guy. Is there anyone else who duped a copy for themselves because you just thought it was a most excellent assemblage of perfect “mood” music? LOLAugust 28, 2013 – 10:06 amReplyCancel

  • Youtu.Be - It’s actually a excellent plus valuable part of info. I’m just pleased which you embraced this useful information around. You should keep us advised this way. Thanks for discussing.September 21, 2013 – 2:36 pmReplyCancel

  • Mike - I can soooooo relate to radio voices in my past! Oh gosh those would be some great stories and what an awesome trip down memory lane! Hey now, the 80’s were amazing, Kristi! As long as I could take Phoenix with me I would go back in the blink of an eye. And geezus…you’ve been a sexy, hottie all of your life! Lordy 🙂February 20, 2014 – 11:53 pmReplyCancel

Hi, friends. While I have littles and not-so-littles to be thankful for this week, including Facebook having more value than it does on any other day of the year due to its ability to make a person feel birthday love from all-over-the-world friends (thank you, all), this week I’m going to do this thankful thing a bit […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Courtney - Kristi, I am speechless. This post about us is beautiful. Thank you spreading awareness about being Thankful for this moment. I am struggling with that these days, although I do say thanks for my kids’ health. I pray for you and I am so touched. thank youAugust 25, 2013 – 10:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Courtney,
    I don’t know how to even say how sorry I am that Scott is not warming your couch right now, or that I am so so so so sorry for your loss. I have thought about you all week – well, for months, really. As you know.
    Huge hugs and prayers for you and Ana and McCartney. huge. And you know what? It’s okay to struggle with being thankful for the moment right now. It is. And your magic and wonder will carry your children through. Truly. Also, please get a hold of me if I can do anything.
    —August 25, 2013 – 10:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - I’ve had tiny, tiny contact with Courtney and loved her blog when I found it a while back.

    Good for you for this. Thank you.August 26, 2013 – 3:50 amReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - Oh, Kristi -My heart just goes out to Courtney and her family. What a loving post you have written, and such a powerful reminder to be thankful for our health, and all that we have.August 26, 2013 – 6:09 amReplyCancel

  • karen - OH MY…how tragic…how do you help children to understand why their prayers weren’t answered? wow.

    Going to keep them all in my prayers and thoughts.August 26, 2013 – 6:46 amReplyCancel

  • christine - Oh, this makes me cry. My biggest fear in all the world is that something would happen to my husband. I can’t imagine how difficult times are for Courtney and her family right now. I have been praying for her and will continue to do so.August 26, 2013 – 7:22 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - I have read quite a few posts about Courtney and Scott now and must say your post was beautiful and you did them both justice here. My heart breaks for Courtney and her kids and still can’t wrap my brain around this. Keeping them all close in thought and prayers now, too.August 26, 2013 – 7:35 amReplyCancel

  • Carol - Love Dexter - Wow… I wasn’t expecting that. Nicely written post. Our thoughts go to Courtney and her family xx (And, happy birthday to you.)August 26, 2013 – 7:58 amReplyCancel

  • K - I can’t even imagine what she and her family are going through right now. Sending prayers! xoAugust 26, 2013 – 10:33 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Thank you for that introduction – I did go to her blog and I’m sitting here crying. I’m keeping their whole family in my heart. My father passed away very suddenly when I was nearly four, leaving my mom with two kids. I kinda understand it, while not understanding it at all. I didn’t get it when I was four, and I barely get it now. I just wanted to write and tell you I read every word. And I want to help too.August 26, 2013 – 10:35 amReplyCancel

  • Rachel - You are a good friend, Kristi. Thank you for sharing Courtney’s story, the fundraiser and the pictures of her beautiful family.August 26, 2013 – 12:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - You are such a compassionate woman, a good friend.

    Clicking over to offer support.August 26, 2013 – 12:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - I’ve read quite a few posts lending support and expressing sympathy for Courtney and her kids, but yours is the one that made me click over and help in a small way. I’m thankful for that, Kristi.August 26, 2013 – 12:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Anita @ Losing Austin - Oh Kristi… I’m headed there now to try to find a few words of love.

    I’m currently trying to find ways to stop drowning in our medical bills that never end, and can’t give $ at the moment, but will give prayer. Beautiful family…August 26, 2013 – 1:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Eli@coachdaddy - I regret not having found Courtney’s wonderful blog before now. I’m proud to help, and thankful for people like you in the blogging community who will do their part. Courtney has a great friend in you.August 26, 2013 – 2:14 pmReplyCancel

  • catherine gacad - Hello after reading this post, I feel so sad, I don’t even want to read any other blogs today, reading about people’s vacations and makeup and cleaning supplies. It all seems so frivolous compared to this. Praying for your friend and her family during this time.August 26, 2013 – 7:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi - Wow. What a heavy, important TToT. Thoughts and prayers for Courtney and her family.August 27, 2013 – 12:13 amReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - That brought tears to my eyes. You are awesome to do this. I didn’t know Courtney in the blog world somehow, though so many of my blog friends did, and I too keep thinking about her and her family. I’m so glad you are participating in the effort to help. Thanks for that reminder to be grateful and STOP bitching about the way the dishwasher was loaded. Seriously. Shut. Up. and just be grateful.August 27, 2013 – 2:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Joell @ Red Van Ramblings - This is so heartbreaking. My heart goes out to your friend and so do my prayers. What a blessing you are to her right now.August 27, 2013 – 2:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Dyanne @ I Want Backsies - Life isn’t fair, but cancer is. It doesn’t play favorites. It takes young, old, adult, child, man, woman, Muslim, Christian, Jew, and everything in between. There’s something so very unfair about that kind of fairness.

    My condolences to Courtney and her children. I am so, so sorry for their loss.August 27, 2013 – 6:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth @ Rocks, No Salt Mommy - This is a fabulous TToT post. My heart breaks for Courtney and I feel very selfish for writing a TToT list about having my husband back after 8 weeks apart. I didn’t even make the connection – even after writing about Courtney for Margarita Mommies earlier last week. This is a beautiful tribute to her. Congrats to you for being such a great friend.August 27, 2013 – 10:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Chris Carter - Oh my… my heart aches so deeply for your precious friend and the loss of her husband to cancer. Heavy heart. So heavy.

    Praying for her now, and will continue to lift up her children and her grieving heart to Him- the God of comfort and peace and compassion.August 27, 2013 – 10:55 pmReplyCancel

  • Jak - I was skimming down (I do this to see how long posts are, it’s habit) and stopped on the picture, because I remember it from when she did the TToT you linked. Then I saw the info just above it and began to cry. That is so tragic.
    –
    I remember coming across Courtney’s blog when she made a quick visit during TToT (the name kept looking like marshmallows to my eyes for some reason) and explored some, but I don’t believe I ever kept up 🙁
    –
    Even when knowing, and whether two soon or prolonged, it’s never easy. It is very sweet of you to do this for her and help. I’m sure she greatly appreciates it and I hope many are able to donate and/or visit and give a kind word.
    –
    Definitely be thankful for the now
    –
    Jak at The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkAugust 28, 2013 – 3:43 amReplyCancel

As he gets older, some of Tucker’s issues are more identifiable. Things that, when he was a baby, were totally unknown in the way that all things baby are a little bit unknown, have become more recognizable as actual behaviors. Part of what we’ve learned about ABA (applied behavior analysis) therapy is that to correct […]

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by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
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  • Janine Huldie - Oh I think we all need a break sometimes Kristi and can tell you that I know my girls have their moments, too. Trust me and even tonight, Emma had a meltdown when Lily took one of her toys. I know it may not totally be the same, but believe me when I say I do deal with what sounds quite similar to me with both my girls, too often enough.August 22, 2013 – 10:10 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - Oh, Kristi, you never cease to amaze me with your powerful writing about your son. Reading this made me think about what must go through my children’s minds when they get frustrated and are trying to remember all of the rules and how to behave…. I think if we all could think about what the world looks like and how it gets processed in our children’s minds, whether they have special needs or not, we would understand their behavior so much better. This is powerful.August 22, 2013 – 10:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - That you imagine your son’s world so vividly makes you a beautiful mommy. He is so lucky to have a mom who seeks to understand him so. Just as we are lucky to have a window into his world as well as other children like him from you, his beautiful mommy.August 22, 2013 – 10:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Jean - This is important. I hope you get a zillion hits on this post.August 22, 2013 – 10:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Have you read Nobody, Nowhere by Donna Williams? This post reminded me of her book. She is a woman with autism who wrote about what it was like, and it is amazing. As is this post. You need to print it out and show it to Tucker’s teachers when he starts elementary school, and paraphrase it to his classmates so they can better understand where he is coming from. I wish Tucker could read this and know how much his mommy loves him and gets him. Although I know he doesn’t need to read it to know this.August 22, 2013 – 10:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - If we only could really get into their little heads and understand what is going on! I think that you are most likely spot on-a great post Kristi!August 22, 2013 – 10:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Wow Kristi – excellent – you drew me in and I was there!!! This was perfectly illustrated without a picture. I so felt every moment for both of you. I think I held my breath.August 22, 2013 – 10:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - You show such incredible insight to what Tucker likely feels like. He is so fortunate to have such an awesome mom who is so attuned to him. I love how you wrote about this topic!August 22, 2013 – 10:47 pmReplyCancel

  • JenKehl - Kristi- this is amazing and wonderful and perfect. To be able to understand so well what is going on inside Tucker’s head, it’s like it was really him talking. I know how you feel so much. Today Isaiah wouldn’t shake a woman’s hand because he said it was “unsanitary” and I was so embarrassed I had to leave. I didn’t want him to feel bad, but how can you explain?
    You are amazing. TTTx10August 22, 2013 – 10:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - That. Was. Amazing. Apparently you should always write these posts at the last minute, because that took my breath away. I want everyone I know to read this. I think it is incredible that you climbed into his head that way and gave him the words to share with all of us what he is going through. You are an awesome mom. Like, the best. Do you have any idea how lucky your son is to have someone like you? Who cares so much, tries so hard, and is so freakin’ gifted? I can’t believe you just wrote this.August 22, 2013 – 11:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Janine,
    maybe it’s the same with all kids. At least how it feels to moms, anyway. I wish the inside-head stuff were easier for Tucker, though…
    —
    Sarah,
    i wonder too. I really wanted this to be more of a glimpse into Tucker’s head but on the third draft, I just was mucking it up worse. Thanks, friend.
    —
    Rachel,
    Thank you. I wish I knew more.
    —
    Jean,
    Aw. Thanks, you. Me, too. But doubtful.
    —August 22, 2013 – 11:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Dana,
    I haven’t actually read that but I’ve written it down and THANK YOU for letting me know about it. A friend of mine (the mom of the friend of Tucker’s in this post) just read Ido in Autismland but I haven’t read that yet either. I think (???) it may be the same thing. If not, a glimpse into the mind of somebody with autism, anyway…
    —
    Sarah,
    I wish we could get into their little heads, too. So much.
    —
    Kenya,
    I kept looking for pictures but the happy ones and the crying ones – none made perfect sense. Thank you for getting it anyway!
    —August 22, 2013 – 11:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Emily,
    I hope so. I try to know what he feels like. I wish I actually knew. Every time I read this, i want to change it. So thank you…
    —
    Jen,
    That woman’s hand probably WAS unsanitary. Never underestimate the power of the words of our kids. Ever. Who know. Maybe she just wiped her ass without TP. He might have been right.
    —
    Stephanie,
    I can’t believe that you are as awesome as you are. Because. You are awesome, and thank you. And I’ll probably edit it a thousand times more. Or not. ‘Cause should but busy…
    —August 22, 2013 – 11:50 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - {bawling}
    (again)
    that is all. xoAugust 23, 2013 – 12:23 amReplyCancel

  • Shay - Oh, Kristi, this is heartbreaking, and I’m pretty sure only moms can understand it–although I hate when people say things like that, because it’s so condescending to women who aren’t moms. But I just know from my own experience before having kids that I thought kids who had meltdowns were just “spoiled” or not disciplined, or blah, blah, blah. Now, though, after having kids, when I see this happen to any little boy or girl, I feel so bad. This was such a great post, and it really touched me. I know that sounds so bullshitty, like I’m just saying that, but I’m serious. I’ve seen this happen so many times with so many kids, my own or not my own. And it just hurts my heart. 🙁August 23, 2013 – 12:24 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Deb,
    Sorry. Again. And all of the agains to come.
    —
    Shay,
    Life changes when we have kids. I thought the same blahblahblahblahblah when it came to my friends, before me, too..
    And thank you.
    Thank you for getting it.
    —August 23, 2013 – 12:46 amReplyCancel

  • K - I love this post so much. Your insight is incredible…you are incredible…Tucker is incredible…thank you. I hope that Tucker gets to read this post someday because it serves as a reminder of just how amazing both of you are. When I read this post, my heart breaks just thinking about all of the mommies who stare and judge and just don’t understand…and I feel for Tucker, too, and the words that are broken and just won’t come out. And yet I love how this post captures his beautiful spirit beneath it all, beneath those broken words and confused feelings. The whole world needs to read your blog. Thank you. xoxoxoAugust 23, 2013 – 12:58 amReplyCancel

  • karen - Kristi you are an awesome mom for totally understanding what Tucker is thinking/feeling and what he goes through.

    I try to think about what Dino wants/needs when he is having a meltdown or try to deal with it before it happens…which is kind of impossible!August 23, 2013 – 6:45 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri - This is what makes you such an awesome mom. The fact that you can get inside Tuck’s head and imagine just what he is struggling with. How he sees, hears and understands and tries so hard. Not just for you, but for himself.

    Adore you and love this post.August 23, 2013 – 8:10 amReplyCancel

  • Linda Roy - Kristi, you are so insightful and I love the way you write. That kind of understanding and insight into what Tucker must be thinking is awesome.August 23, 2013 – 9:28 amReplyCancel

  • Chris at Hye Thyme Cafe - Just thinking that whole thing through is exhausting, never mind living it! Must be sooooooo frustrating! 🙁August 23, 2013 – 10:07 amReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Kristi this is all kinds of AWESOME!!! I used to teach kids with all kinds of different special needs and so many times I wondered what exactly was happening inside the beautiful minds. You expressed it so perfectly. I could completely feel his angst building and then calming. I love it and I hope many, many people read it because I think it would help us all understand better which would make the world a better place for everyone!August 23, 2013 – 10:24 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Maybe we all have different games in our head, and that’s part of the problem. You are so astute to get in there like that. What writing! I’m sorry Tucker gets so frustrated/scared/angry/everything when his games don’t turn out a certain way.
    I had to read this no less than three times today.August 23, 2013 – 10:25 amReplyCancel

  • Katia - I am speechless. This was the best thing you ever wrote and one of the best, most powerful and touching posts I’ve ever read. You are so talented as a writer and so wonderful as a mom.August 23, 2013 – 12:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Sandra Sallin - Wow, you really were able to get me into Tucker’s head. It was very enlightening. It’s a wonderful post and more mother’s should be able to read it. This is for mother’s of special needs kids or not. It gives us all insight. Thank you. Brilliant.August 23, 2013 – 1:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa - Wow. You really get inside of Tucker’s head and I bet you’re pretty spot on about what goes on in there. It must be incredibly powerful for Tucker to feel understood and acknowledged by you, his mom. Surely it is difficult to navigate for you, but from this and other posts of yours I’ve read, you clearly have a gift for mothering.August 23, 2013 – 1:37 pmReplyCancel

  • Janet - Amazingly well said. You’re a fantastic writer. I can’t imagine not being able to get your body and voice to do what you wish they would. My little Chris has the same struggles.August 23, 2013 – 2:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - Your poor little guy. 🙁 But at least he has the best mom ever. That is true empathy!August 23, 2013 – 4:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - This is amazing. You’re incredible. I totally felt it with him. Well done you for sticking with it and helping him to learn to regulate.

    And if ANY of those Moms look dirt at you, I’m’a come over and pound on them. How very dare they.

    You totally rock.August 23, 2013 – 5:09 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Life, Unexpectedly - Tucker seems such a great little guy, no matter what. It is the same with all kids I guess. With “normal” ones it’s mostly easier to guide their actions, but there is still the phase when they just cannot understand the big picture, or a little thing is suddenly big drama. I’m glad you are so good parents to Tucker!August 23, 2013 – 6:53 pmReplyCancel

  • Sara - Wow, such a visceral post. I felt it and tensed right there with you (him) and then released with deep breaths when it was ok to breathe again. You are clearly Queen of the Land of Empathy. All hail the queen. You are a beautiful mommy.

    …and btw, I’m still learning to ask for A Break. Sometimes we know better but our intellectual selves doesn’t sync up with our emotional selves, our thinking selves don’t sync up with our acting selves. If 40+ yr olds still struggle with it, is it any wonder that 4-yr-olds do??August 23, 2013 – 7:19 pmReplyCancel

  • Seriously Kate - This is such a moving post – it truly touched my heart. Thank you for sharing it!

    KateAugust 23, 2013 – 10:07 pmReplyCancel

  • GirlieOnTheEdge - Blogging. Is. A. Powerful. Tool.
    Cathartic, educational, mobilizing.
    It’s a tool that connects, ties and joins people who, before the advent of the internet, might otherwise have never met.
    Much to my regret, I do not have children. But I’ve been around them enough to know that in essence what you’ve written here sounds in one way what all kids struggle with as they are growing. Learning appropriate behavior(s) and the “right” way to navigate their little, young lives. Everything is new them – how to play, how to deal with other kids who aren’t so nice, whose parents didn’t put much into teaching them “how to act”.
    You have extra challenges a lot of moms don’t Kristi, but it’s abundantly clear Tucker is a very lucky boy to have you as his mom ( )August 24, 2013 – 8:13 amReplyCancel

  • Natalie DeYoung - You are a very talented storyteller. The way you captured the experience of your son’s mind is very powerful.August 24, 2013 – 11:31 amReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - Oh, my. Blessed is the person who has someone to understand him so completely. And to even TRY to.

    Blown. Away.August 24, 2013 – 8:37 pmReplyCancel

  • Lanaya | Raising Reagan - I know all about the breaks mama … I am currently on a sabbatical from my own three year old. While it is so hard being away from her I also know why we need our time to ourselves.
    Your son is so lucky to have you as a mother. You are truly amazing!

    ¤´¨)
    ¸.•*´
    (¸¤ Lanaya | xoxo
    Raising-Reagan.comAugust 24, 2013 – 9:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Carol - Love Dexter - Wow… I can imagine that this is exactly what’s going on inside the heads of kids, like Tucker. What a great sense of fun Tucker must have. Insightful!! Thanks!August 25, 2013 – 7:27 amReplyCancel

  • Jamie@southmainmuse - You painted such a vivid picture into your son’s emotions. Sometimes I feel like throwing a major tantrum too — especially when life gets overwhelming.August 25, 2013 – 7:12 pmReplyCancel

  • SocialButterflyMom - Kristi- this is one of my favorite posts of yours. How one doesn’t have empathy after reading this is beyond me.August 27, 2013 – 8:12 amReplyCancel

  • MJM - That was awesome. Very deep and insightful. It’s amazing the things we take for granted, and never think about until someone brings it to our attention. Thanks for sharing.August 29, 2013 – 11:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Annemarie - Loved reading this, amazing!!August 31, 2013 – 10:18 amReplyCancel

  • Cyndi - This is an amazing post. I love what you did – putting it in Tucker’s perspective.
    You’re amazing. The things you do as a mom are fabulous and I’m so glad that you’re writing about it – to educate and help everyone understand, but also because I know it’s good for the soul to do so. HUGSSeptember 1, 2013 – 12:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Roshni - This is the best ever insight I’ve read about!! Thank you for sharing!!May 7, 2014 – 7:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy @ icansaymama - I just read this, Kristi, it is a very powerful piece and I can totally understand why you got an award for it! Love you for this!August 14, 2014 – 2:19 pmReplyCancel

When I first found Sarah Almond, her blog name intimidated me. I figured she was way too smart to enjoy the drivels of me. I mean, come on. The Sadder but Wiser Girl? Whoa. Sadder AND Wiser? I felt like she had secrets to the universe that I didn’t. And, well, now that I know […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Tracy@CrazyAsNormal - In an entirely unprecedented move, you have made me love you more.

    No wide-eyed, eager,
    Wholesome innocent Sunday school teacher for me.
    That kinda girl spins webs no spider ever–
    Listen, boy–
    A girl who trades on all that purity
    Merely wants to trade my independence for her security.August 21, 2013 – 10:24 amReplyCancel

  • that cynking feeling - You know how some parents worry about putting a label on their kids by announcing a diagnosis? Because they don’t want their children to be pigeonholed? Because they don’t want people to make assumptions? Because they say, “my child is more than a label?” I guess we should consider “special needs parent” to be a label. The phrase explains some things, but not everything. No too “special needs parents” are alike. We are more than that label could ever tell another person.
    If you want to call yourself that, then embrace it. If you don’t, that’s okay, too.August 21, 2013 – 10:29 amReplyCancel

  • donofalltrades - Sarah,

    It was great learning a little bit more about your awesome family outside of the usual content you share.

    We all worry about our kids and how they’ll be treated in school and whether or not life is going to smash their sweet dispositions right out of their little bodies. I’m sure your boy will be fine. He’s so bright, he just needs to find a friend or place that can keep up with him!

    I worry about whether or not my own boys have some sort of issues. I’m pretty sure the 2 year old is just an asshole by nature, but the 4 year old sounds a little bit like your son. He’s so sweet and he has little quirks like twirling his hair and not eating almost anything at all that drive us bonkers. We’ll see.

    Good luck!

    I think you’re great, for what it’s worth! Ninee, you’re sort of ok too.

    DonAugust 21, 2013 – 10:34 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - How could I love you anymore Sarah? This was such a very open and honest post. God how I thank you for sharing with us. Believe me I think all kids have certain issues and as a former teacher I did see the gamete. And I am sure with my kids I will have a few worries and concern, too. Trust me I did when Emma was younger and not speaking as fast as I thought she should. Now I can’t shut her up, but the point is you aren’t alone and yes i may not technically be a special needs parent, but believe me I have my moments where I wonder why my kids did something, too.August 21, 2013 – 10:53 amReplyCancel

  • Jessica - Another awesome “Our Land” post! Sarah, so many of the characteristics you describe in this post about your son describe my 4-year-old, as well (only, he is minus the chewing and plus the H). Obviously, I have yet to see how that pans out beyond preschool and when he’s older. I totally understand your worrying about his safety (I would have FLIPPED about the electrical cord!) and I hope he’s able to keep his IEP and behavior program until he’s really ready to be on his own without them. Best of luck to you, looking forward to reading more of your posts (both of you, Kristy and Sarah)! 🙂August 21, 2013 – 11:24 amReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - Sarah, thanks so much for sharing this so honestly with us. I am so sorry you had to experience something so scary. I hope you find some connections after writing this piece, and some moms who have been there are able to help you. I worry about my oldest daughter’s sensitivity and anxiety sometimes. I had to take her to the doctor the other day, and I thought her head was going to start spinning around she was freaking out so much. Screaming at me, going rigid, trying to hit me… I worry about what will happen if she gets scared and school and loses it in front of everybody. This post was so perfect for Kristi’s series- thank you so much for being part of it!August 21, 2013 – 11:26 amReplyCancel

  • Rachel - You have written such a beautifully open and honest piece, Sarah. Your love for your son is so evident in it. Thank you for sharing your mind here. I am honored to have read about this part of your life!August 21, 2013 – 12:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Karen - thank you so much for sharing…Dino had some speech issues when he was younger and has sensory (proprioceptive issues) that may or may not effect him when he goes to school. I worry all the time if he will fit in or stand out. Will his impulses and inability to realize how strong he is hugging someone will make him “the bad kid” or will he be able to control his body. So many parents and kids can be just mean…what if they bully Dino.

    As a special education teacher and reading specialist…and a mom…I feel the worry all around me.

    Thank you for sharing, thank you for being honest about your son and your worries. I look to moms who have older kids as my resources.August 21, 2013 – 2:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Kari - I haven’t written about yet on my site (not sure if I’ll ever get around to it), but my oldest son (now 16) has what we refer to in our house as Asperger’s Lite. That is, he is diagnosed, but is way, way, way down (or high up?) on the ‘spectrum’. VERY high-functioning and very teachable/trainable. If you met him today, you probably wouldn’t even notice or be able to tell he has Asperger’s.

    I forgot, how old is your son? I ask because for us the years between 2 and 12 (eesh! as I typed that …10 years!??? really, that long?) were the toughest. That blank stare you get when you lecture about something that seems to be SO logical–and you wonder if they are making the connection that what you’re saying directly applies to them.. YEP! I KNOW that stare! My son didn’t have the same issues you’re talking about, but I can relate to A LOT of what you’re saying. I think one reason I haven’t mentioned of any of this on my blog is that I feel like IN COMPARISON I have it pretty easy, having a kid on the spectrum. SO many other people have it so much worse– so I don’t know if I am a part of their “club” (<–I hope you know what I mean by that) Am I special needs mom? hmmm, yeah, I never knew either. I didn't/don't feel like it. I mean, years were difficult, but I got through them. He is doing AWESOME! Exceeding anyone's expectations… his teachers and resources teachers just cannot get over how much progress he has made. He is …essentially… .. (ack! I hate to use the word) "normal".

    Now, that said, I do still have my concerns/worries–all the time. I get a near panic attack thinking about him going off to college (in 2 years!!!).

    I have no idea if this is helpful at all, but I wanted to reply nonetheless and if you want..email me, contact me if you have any questions or want me to expand on anything I've said here.

    This was a great post…weird that I am reading here first before reading on YOUR blog, but, that's how it happened this time. 🙂August 21, 2013 – 2:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Kari-You know what is funny? I have used that exact same phrase when describing my son’s behaviors! Thank you so much for sharing that with me!August 21, 2013 – 2:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Life, Unexpectedly - Thank you for this great post! I still don’t understand how my calm and reasonable approaches never have the same effects as my hubby’s magic, maybe it’s daddys.. Thank you for sharing your doubts and worries, but I believe once he grows up and experiences more of the world, your son will do fine. Wishing all of you only the best!August 21, 2013 – 3:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Ariana - While my sons’ issues were far far less intense than your’s, I know that worry about the future. I trusted that he would adjust socially, he was able to have and keep friends, even though they would admit to me how he could make them uncomfortable. But his academic future was a constant source of worry. A worry I finally had to just let go. He is an adult, he works, and will go back to college at some point in the future. He was challenged all through school, we constantly heard “he’s so smart, why won’t he just do his work”. We supported him, kept him on an IEP, and finally the rest was up to him.

    I’ve written recently about my “special needs” sister, and the challenges my mother had.August 21, 2013 – 3:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - I don’t have any answers for you, Sarah, but I hope other parents will. You write that life is so much better than it was in kindergarten, so I hope that things will continue to get better as your son grows and matures. You are pouring your heart and soul into nurturing and parenting your son – you deserve the title of awesome-dedicated-fabulous mom.August 21, 2013 – 4:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Lisa @ Golden Spoons - Sarah, thank you for sharing this with all of us. I, too, wish I had some words of wisdom or comfort to offer you, but I don’t. I think on some level all children have “issues” that we, as parents, struggle with. Obviously, some are more serious than others, but I think we are all “special needs’ parents on some level. The fact that you worry about your son so much shows how much you love and care about him. Again, thank you for sharing.August 21, 2013 – 4:24 pmReplyCancel

  • Menopausalmother - I wish I had an easy answer for you but sadly, I don’t. I’m glad though to see you opening up about this here and hopefully some of the other moms reading this can help. Love you to bits Sarah–always here for you. XOAugust 21, 2013 – 5:19 pmReplyCancel

  • Melissa - I think when your child needs special attention to regular life activities they are considered special needs. I think for every parent of a child with special needs (and not) there are areas where they excel or do not need accommodations, this is also where they can find their passion and self esteem. As a mother of a dyslexic child and one who is 3 with a language disorder, it’s hard to not worry, about IEPs about life after 18, about the day to day stuff. I think being aware and knowing your child is key to being able to prepare them (and yourself) for potential harm.

    Hugs go out to you, it’s not easy!

    I may snatch that badge over there, I like it!!August 21, 2013 – 5:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Mytwicebakedpotato - I loved this and at the same time it made my stomach hurt! I know your pain and worries because I have them too! I would have been hysterical about the cord. My highly-gifted son wouldn’t have understood either initially and that is terrifying.

    Kindergarten and first grade was terrible for us. The first grade teacher told us after six days of school that my son “took great pleasure in causing pain for others!”

    As you can imagine, I was horrified!!! That was not my son and what kind of person would say that about a 5 yrs old student after 6 days.

    Things are better now but I worry everyday. I know all parents worry, but I think of myself as a spec needs parent because I am worrying and planning and trying to assure the most success possible about basic things…tag less tshirts, eating enough food to be able to cope, and constantly modeling how to problem solve or talk to others.

    Thank you for sharing! 🙂August 21, 2013 – 6:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Tamara - What a brave and open post – and it doesn’t surprise me that Kristi loves you. I adore her. I don’t have any answers, unfortunately, and I am often surprised by what gets a diagnosis, and what doesn’t, and all that murky in between. I think if things ran the way they do when we were kids, my brother surely would have had many labels. I would have had physical therapy because I didn’t stand up to walk until I was 18 months.August 21, 2013 – 8:54 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Tracy-I was thinking about calling myself Sarian the Librarian for a work thing the other day. Get it? And then I realized that was ALSO from The Music Man-because I have had no brain for over two weeks now. Thank you for stopping by and leaving me some love!August 21, 2013 – 10:12 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - To That Cynking Feeling. I think that it is hard for me to connect with parents of mainstream children because I feel like they don’t understand! While I hesitate to label my son because of him being pigeonholed, unfortunately he already has been in some ways. :-/ Thank you for your comment!August 21, 2013 – 10:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Don-I think you’re pretty swell too…August 21, 2013 – 10:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Janine-Thank you! It’s certainly human nature to worry about our kids and things that don’t seem to match up with what society expects-like when they start to talk, etc. Apparently I was slow to talk, and much like your daughter then my mother couldn’t shut me up. My son was late to talk also but his sister was an early talker. Most days I feel like I don’t get to say anything…August 21, 2013 – 10:24 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Jessica-It’s good to know I’m not alone-it’s also good to know that your son doesn’t do the chewing! It is getting better in some respects-I had him try gum, but he can only do that during the daytime and in the living room. He literally would go through 50 pieces of gum a day if I’d let him, so I had to ration it out! Thank you for your comment!August 21, 2013 – 10:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Stephanie-Anxiety in kids can be anxiety provoking for their parents, that is for sure! Thank you for commenting!August 21, 2013 – 10:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Rachel-Thank you! XO!August 21, 2013 – 10:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Karen-I didn’t realize that your son had sensory issues as well. Fortunately my son’s issues have gotten better with age. He still has certain food aversions and a few quirky things, but I know there are things that just a couple of years ago that he wouldn’t even touch (like play-doh) that he will actually work with now! Thank you for your comment!August 21, 2013 – 11:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Stephanie (from Life Unexpectedly, looks like I have more than one Stephanie hanging out with me today!)-In my house it’s because dad yells louder. Seriously though, he has a way of getting through to the kids that I don’t have. You’re right, it must be magic. Thank you for reading and commenting!August 21, 2013 – 11:21 pmReplyCancel

  • The Queen Mother - Kristi,

    Thank you for sharing this gift of a message with us readers. Unfortunately, I don’t have the answers to the questions Sarah posed. (Heck, I can’t even answer my own questions.) But as a mother who loves — and would do anything for — her son, I empathize.August 21, 2013 – 11:25 pmReplyCancel

  • SocialButterflyMom - I really appreciated the raw honesty in this post. Although my kid’s “normal,” I do see that he shares my short fuse when things don’t work properly. It’s frustrating to see, as it’s something I’ve never liked in myself, and now I’ve passed it on. 🙁August 22, 2013 – 4:12 pmReplyCancel

  • JenKehl - I love you Sarah. I know how you deal with these things every day. And I also know that you really never blog about it. You and I have many of the same issues, and I applaud you for being able to let go enough to let him attempt to have a normal life. I would be lying if I said that my son’s behaviors have not influenced my decision to homeschool. It is so hard when you know that the behaviors your child exhibits will not be tolerated by other children.
    And on another note, I jokingly call my son a pyromaniac, but it is not a joke. He did set our basement on fire and still to this day does not seem to get that he could have killed us ALL! It was that same blank stare.
    I also wrote a post once about not really knowing if I was a special needs mom. I think the truth is, if your child has special needs, as in needs that are different from your typical child, then they are special needs. Both your son and my son fit that description. You know I am always here for you!August 22, 2013 – 10:06 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Your kid and my kid: The blank stare masters. Whatever are we going to do with them? I say we get together and let them loose and see what happens when worlds collide…August 23, 2013 – 12:37 amReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Thank you to everyone who read and made such wonderful comments! It’s nice to know how much support there is in the online community! 😀August 24, 2013 – 10:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - So sad I missed your appearance on Our Land in the week, and thanks for linking me in now. Incredible post – great job of writing and sharing it. I hope you get some of the answers you want, but I reckon you’ve found the right community here to offer the support and help and care to keep you going until you get them 🙂August 24, 2013 – 11:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Carol - Love Dexter - Wow. What an eyeopener. Electric cords… and yet, that makes so much sense. I love the Sadder But Wiser title, too… it’s perfect. Kids with special needs give lots of sad moments (and lots of love, lots!) and they teach us to be better and stronger and ‘wiser’. I’ve read a few of your posts, but it’s time I started dropping in on a more regular basis! 🙂August 25, 2013 – 7:12 amReplyCancel

  • Katia - I can so relate to the worrying, Sarah. I am an anxious person myself and worry is my brain’s default mode. I am so sorry that you spend so much of your time worrying and wish I could offer some advice. I am not sure what IEP stands for but have you tried consulting with the school’s (again can’t remember the proper term but) psychologist/educational advisor?August 25, 2013 – 7:31 pmReplyCancel

  • WhenCrazyMeetsExhaustion - Oh, Sarah 🙁 What I found interesting about this whole situation was how differently you and your husband handled it. I think hearing it from each of you, communicated in various ways, probably helps. You’re the more empathetic approach, and your husband is frank and to the point. Either way, you’re both doing your best and I give you two thumbs for that because parenting? It ain’t easy. Hang in there, Mama xoAugust 26, 2013 – 10:40 amReplyCancel

Once, at a Halloween party, I saw a girl dressed like this: She was The Girl Next Door. At the same party, I saw a guy dressed like this: I asked him what he was. Do you know? He was a One Night Stand. To this day, I wonder whether the two of them found […]

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by Kristi Campbell

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  • Courtney - I am so terrible at creative costumes like that. I love the one night stand. Like you I wonder if it worked? {It would have gotten my attention since I always fell for the clown}August 20, 2013 – 3:56 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Hi Courtney.
    I’ve been thinking about you and send you huge huge huge hugs. The one night stand WAS super creative!
    XO
    —August 20, 2013 – 3:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Linda Roy - Ha! That’s hilarious! Excellent Halloween costume (the guy) and your post cracked me up. “No…you can’t take a shower – get out!” lolAugust 20, 2013 – 4:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - Ha ha! You crack me up! I hope they found each other!August 20, 2013 – 4:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Lance - Great Clapton pick.August 20, 2013 – 4:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Jodi Flaherty - Oh my gosh, I loved this post! It was awesome! “Closing Time” makes me think if the nights out I spent as a single lady looking for love in all sorts of wrong places!August 20, 2013 – 4:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Dream - I’m almost embarrassed to admit that I too know Boom Boom (and have danced to it) as it was included in a bar mixtape that we’d all dubbed copies of during the dorm years.August 20, 2013 – 5:06 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - having an ‘off-week’ (Summer Cold)…but I am, as always glad I came here…

    but I read the text without playing the vids (at least at first pass) and I saw a couple of references to vid as ‘Boom Boom’ and so naturally, by feverish brain plays the Pat Travers tape in my head… so I click on Play for ‘Boom Boom’…

    lol

    the mind is beautiful and terrible thing!August 20, 2013 – 6:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for Real. - Bwa-ha-ha! That is super clever. I used to have the coolest Halloween parties, and I also used to shell out mega bucks to have fabulous costumes. It goes without saying perhaps, but I’m lame now. I do, however, still wear cat ears. Also- isn’t it so cool how easy it is to share on Triberr? Wow.August 20, 2013 – 6:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - I have never, ever experienced anything like that in my life. Cough, cough.August 20, 2013 – 6:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - I once dated a guy dressed as Spongebob meeting him at a Halloween Party. True story, but a few months later, I broke up with him and then I met Kevin. Got to love Halloween parties though!!August 20, 2013 – 7:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Linda,
    My friends and I said “no you can’t take a shower – get out!” to one another for years and cracked up every time!
    —
    Jodi,
    I forgot about closing time! I remember a friend of mine once saying that it was “her” song. I was like. Um. You do know how wrong that is right?
    —
    Dream,
    Thank you for not making me alone in knowing Boom Boom or for dancing to it!
    —August 20, 2013 – 8:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Clark,
    So sorry to hear about your cold. That sucks 🙁
    Yes, the mind IS a beautiful and terrible thing indeed.
    —
    Stephanie,
    Dude. I wish we knew each other back when you had the coolest Halloween parties. I love Halloween parties. Maybe one of these years I’ll throw one again…
    —
    Rachel,
    Cough cough indeed.
    —
    Janine,
    You dated Spongebob! Awesome!
    —August 20, 2013 – 8:25 pmReplyCancel

  • karen - so awesome how you did this…LOLOLOLOL…

    sadly I am not familiar with either song, I mostly listen to audio books, but if I ever do hear those songs…I will think of your post…August 20, 2013 – 8:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Aw, Karen,
    That you’ll think of me if you ever hear Boom Boom warms my heart.August 20, 2013 – 9:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Kari - Funny! I love the imagery of “little girls next door and lampshade wearing boys” … I like to believe in true love, so my bet is they did hook up and lived (living) happily ever after. 🙂August 20, 2013 – 9:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kari,
    I like to believe in true love, too. I hope they found it! How cool would that be?August 20, 2013 – 10:07 pmReplyCancel

  • Jen - Is there no end to the humor you see in things? REALLY? I forgot my pillow. Dude, that’s a line if I ever heard it. Did you try to use it?
    And Boom Boom!! OMG! What an awesome call. This post is so great, your mind amazes me. In a good way 🙂August 21, 2013 – 1:25 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Jen,
    I will never tell! 😀
    —August 21, 2013 – 9:07 amReplyCancel

  • Dana - That damn song will be in my head all day now. But I also have a great Halloween costume idea – love the One Night Stand! Guess that’s not appropriate for my kid, huh?August 21, 2013 – 9:54 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - This is too good, and I’m enjoying the Clapton while my kids both nap. I can’t stop thinking of “Last Worthless Evening” by Don Henley. I bet it was the last worthless evening for The Night Stand Guy and The GIrl Next Door. In fact, I bet the night before that party was actually the last worthless evening and the party night? Worthful. Full of worth and promise.August 21, 2013 – 10:55 amReplyCancel

  • Erica - Shut up with your bad self!!! Boom Boom?! I am dying! I remember when this song was getting blasted on the radio all the time. It was the first song I remember knowing was about sex. I used to giggle every time it came on (until my mom changed the radio station). Thanks for the flashback!August 21, 2013 – 5:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Slu - LOL… How can one not like ‘Boom Boom?’ Brought a smile.

    And… Holy Smokes!!! Diggin’ the Clapton tune. Wow…

    As per my usual: Love your story. Will always wonder.

    Keep smiling, SluAugust 21, 2013 – 9:24 pmReplyCancel

Hi, friends. So, it’s Sunday and there are voices in my head today.  Here are a few of them: My own voice: “You’re too busy to participate in Ten Things of Thankful this weekend. It’s already after 7pm on Sunday and the fact that you haven’t even thought about it means you’re either thankless or […]

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by Kristi Campbell

Whatcha think, peeps?
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  • Dyanne @ I Want Backsies - You’re not wearing underwear?August 18, 2013 – 7:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Damn, what are the voices doing visiting your head. I guess they took a break from mine, lol!! But seriously, you do have tons to be thankful for and I know this feeling though very well at this point trying to indeed keep up! Here is to a great rest of Sunday night and a great week too now my friend!! 🙂August 18, 2013 – 8:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Dyanne,
    Nope.
    —
    Janine,
    Glad I’m not alone with these pesky voices! I hope you have a great week, too!
    —August 18, 2013 – 8:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate - Forgotten photos found are the best! You are good getting this done. I didn’t feel like I had enough thankful things to list but will try next week. Good luck with work tomorrow!August 18, 2013 – 8:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Girl you are doing so good! “Winging it is working just fine.” And I love #2 – so true. That’s why I try to dig in the picture box and old photo albums when I go home. The sneezing, itching and rash is so worth it.August 18, 2013 – 8:44 pmReplyCancel

  • Jean - I’m thankful I got to meet you.August 18, 2013 – 8:58 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - My favorite part is that you stopped to play ball with Tucker. Sometimes, with so much to do, it is hard to stop to do those little things. But the little things are so important.

    Funny, I almost thought Lizzi was here, the way you had her talking to you. 🙂

    I’m glad you took the time to get the list done this week. Good luck with all still to do. Hopefully, underwear is on the list somewhere before you leave the house.August 18, 2013 – 9:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Natalia Frost - Great list! I hope you have a great week at the end of August and have some quality time with your little one.August 18, 2013 – 9:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Rich Rumple - I completely understand where you’re coming from. I’ve had to give up several hops simply because my time just isn’t there. Didn’t like doing it, but I felt my quality was suffering as I was forcing posts instead of creating them. Hang in there!August 19, 2013 – 1:07 amReplyCancel

  • clark - (and without re-reading and trusting* my own clarklike instincts)

    a) sure, you’re welcome
    b) no! we were alright
    3) no! clark that is not a good blogger-citizen thought! stop it! you’ll get our X-Chrome passport revoked for sure
    d) really, stop that …besides, that’s Rich’s thing

    We did miss you down at (fill in the temporary name of the virtual community that we have not yet had a contest for to come up with a name for) this weekend.

    But it’s kinda like the new school year (lets stay in the high school for the metaphor… and be Juniors this year… same Homeroom, but different classes.., you know… those Doctrine Varsity jackets idea is starting to sound attractive again…)

    in any event

    congratulations on your promotion over to the FTSF organization…totally deserveded

    see you on the virtual campus, yo**

    *you know what happens when we do that… somewhere between: extremely good and oh my god what have I done?
    ** we all know how that would go: you be hanging with the crowd that smoked and had their own cars, but you wouldn’t laugh at me when the rogers among the group you were in (during lunch period) tried to start something (for that matter neither would the scotts…they would know me from a separate class and suspect that I was secretly cool)August 19, 2013 – 7:42 amReplyCancel

  • karen - it;s amazing how much guilt we push on ourselves…I am glad you saw all the amazing things you are doing and are thankful for what you have. You are an amazing mom…cheers you one…YOU ROCK!August 19, 2013 – 8:30 amReplyCancel

  • Yvonne - Kristi, you did better than I did this weekend! I said no thanks to thanks! Actually I didn’t totally, I just didn’t want to post a poor quality piece or for my blog to be nothing by 10 T of T (haven’t posted since last week) so I posted 11 gratitude posts on Twitter instead.

    I’m very impressed that you managed to come up with this in so little time. You do a great job of showing how the mind works and I think it’s actually going to be useful to many people!August 19, 2013 – 8:44 amReplyCancel

  • GirlieOnTheEdge - ….”Ray is hearing voices?”…..

    I for one am glad of your “voices” Kristi =D

    Who ever said you HAVE to wear underwear? LOLAugust 19, 2013 – 9:15 amReplyCancel

  • Tamara - Crap, it’s Monday and I’m still wearing underwear from Saturday night. Kidding! I have many voices in my head this morning, as well as many reasons to be thankful. I am thankful that you stumbled into blogging 10+ months ago.August 19, 2013 – 10:02 amReplyCancel

  • Jak - Bleh, I read this last night and passed out right after!*
    –
    Jak’s voice: Where the hell is Kristi? Is she seriously attempting to win last place again?! Oh Hell no…**
    –
    You’ve been pretty busy for some time, but I’m really glad you were able to take some time out to play with your son. I’m sure he greatly appreciates it, regardless if he has a caretaker he is fond of and vice versa***
    –
    Hopefully at the end of August you get that free time and can spend more time with your family!
    –
    Glad you got your post in!!****
    –
    No comment about no underwear*****
    –
    *This is definitely not to say you are boring, just that I was exhausted.
    **Not that you need another voice rummaging through your head or anything…
    ***Which is definitely something to be thankful for
    ****I knew you would 🙂
    *****Well, maybe just one******
    ******On second thought, never mind…
    –
    Jak at The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkAugust 19, 2013 – 11:20 amReplyCancel

  • Maggie Amada - Good post, Kristi. I’m glad you found the time when so many of us didn’t. Thanks for reminding us to be thankful. 🙂August 19, 2013 – 12:29 pmReplyCancel

  • SmackOfHam - At home with two kids, I always feel like I’m cheating when I get a shower and put on fresh clothes. It’s tough to fit in all you want to I and usually that’s the first activity to sacrifice. Enjoy the “time off!”August 21, 2013 – 10:13 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - My voice in your head is a total bitch!

    And Christine agrees it sounds like me (thanks buddy)

    I apologise wholeheartedly for coming across so badly.

    Love your list, and BEST THING ON IT is you taking time off to spend with lovely Tucker, doing fun Mom-and-son things. Enjoy every second 🙂August 24, 2013 – 4:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Lizzi,
    Your voice is not a total bitch and you didn’t come across badly at all. It was me writing it – my guilt!
    —
    Smack of Ham,
    Yeah, best not to shower really!
    —
    Maggie,
    🙂
    We do need to be thankful!
    —
    Jak,
    HAHA, winning last place actually sortof sucks a bit!
    —
    Tamara,
    You were totally not kidding, were you 😉
    —
    Girlie,
    Me too. usually.
    —
    Yvonne,
    Well it’s now the following weekend and I’m thinking of saying no thanks!
    —
    Karen,
    Aw. Thank you friend!
    —
    Clark,
    HAHA to number 3! You have the best comment on this one for sure!
    —
    Rich,
    Yeah, finding the time is a beotch.
    —
    Natalie,
    Thank you!
    —
    Christine,
    Playing with Tucker was my favorite part, too!
    —
    Jean,
    Aw. Ditto.
    —
    Kenya,
    Winging it is mostly doing just fine 😉 and YES the ha-choos are so worth the photos!
    —
    Kate,
    I love forgotten photos!August 24, 2013 – 4:45 pmReplyCancel

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