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

Time passes quickly up here at my age. For the younger me’s (I so want to type me’s because I know that’s what you need to see, but I’m fairly certain that mes is correct), though, it passed much more slowly. Perhaps time, in youth, passes more slowly because we change, so much, from one […]

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  • clark - holy shit!*
    I’m the first Comment!!

    damn!**

    (hurry up and post this Comment before someone else get in!!

    Nice Post
    Loved the music

    *feel free to edit out the impulse statement for the sake of decorum
    ** suspect this is a Y-Chrome thing…. me? competitive?? no fricken wayJuly 2, 2013 – 5:34 amReplyCancel

  • GirlieOnTheEdge - I AM so damn jealous Kristi! I love U2. How cool to have seen them at Red Rocks. Damn cool.

    Thumbs up on the hair cool chick:)* I myself had half my head shaved – early ’86 I think. Called it my “modified mohawk”. LOL
    As it grew out, I had it dyed blonde, you know, as a lovely counterpoint to my otherwise darker hair. Weren’t the 80’s so very fun?:D

    *Don’t you let anyone tell you, you ain’t no clark lololJuly 2, 2013 – 6:53 amReplyCancel

  • Dani Ryan - OMG, you TOTALLY brought me back to middle school with this post!!!! Too funny! I never did the head-shaving thing, but you and I could be sisters with the big hair. 🙂

    And FYI…I hate U2s new stuff, too!!!!July 2, 2013 – 7:53 amReplyCancel

  • Dream - I so wanted to do the side head-shave thing. I wasn’t enough of a rebel to break the school’s rule about that sort of thing though. They were pretty strict on any displays of originality.

    I didn’t care much about U2 at the time, but love them now. Pretty awesome that you got to see them at Red Rocks!July 2, 2013 – 8:45 amReplyCancel

  • SocialButterflyMom - Did you ever, in your wildest fantasies, think that all of these trends would come back?! God help us…July 2, 2013 – 8:50 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri - Love your mix tape! Duran Duran, sigh. U2 (the 80’s one not the 2013) were awesome. But how can you forget that Boy George? After all I think he inspired your haircut 🙂July 2, 2013 – 9:47 amReplyCancel

  • donofalltrades - Not gonna lie, 80’s you was pretty hot! I had some bad thoughts about what 80s don would have done with all those you’s. At the same time too, unless that screws up the space time vortex should two you’s occupy the same space at the same time. I think I saw something on Big Bang Theory where that’s a bad thing.July 2, 2013 – 9:51 amReplyCancel

  • Jen - Dude you were so gorg! I mean totally! And I am not just talking 80’s speak. You rocked the rat tail and the 80’s step. Mine kept growing, until it was a mohawk, because I wanted to piss off my mom. Then I died it green. That sealed the deal.
    I love your take, because you are right on! Forget bulletin boards! Who even prints out their photos anymore??!!!
    I did the Dead at Red Rocks once…it was AMAZING. I can’t believe you were at that concert, how awesome to be part of history!July 2, 2013 – 11:08 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Awwwwwwwwwwww look at all the ‘you’s! And did you know that Cher Lloyd has brought the shaved step thing back? (Or, she did for a while).

    1980….hmm….I was -3.July 2, 2013 – 11:12 amReplyCancel

  • Michelle Liew - The shaved step is so cool!July 2, 2013 – 12:40 pmReplyCancel

  • K - You never fail to make me smile! I loved seeing all of the you’s.July 2, 2013 – 12:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica Smock - The 1980s were simply a fashion travesty. Isn’t it amazing how GOOD we thought we looked? I’m glad that not many photos of me during the 1980s teen years survived. You were such a blondie!July 2, 2013 – 12:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Slu - Ha… Always love your lead in Story. Great song, SluJuly 2, 2013 – 1:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - Oh, you are SO totally bragging!

    Or I am so totally jealous.

    Blister in the Sun is a great pick (all the other ones are, too, but this is the one I’ll have in my head the rest of the day).

    I think you’re adorable in all the pix.July 2, 2013 – 2:31 pmReplyCancel

  • Tatum - Do college students still listen to Violent Femmes? I’m (a couple of years less than) a decade behind you, but they still were mainstay in my college CD collection. Maybe Kerry can do an Our Land contemporizing (is that a word) the rest of us into what’s cool now. It fits, right? Wondering and empathy of teenage angst and the impact of music.

    PS – I lived in Milwaukee after college. The Violent Femmes are from Milwaukee. I was so cool driving along lake shore drive with my windows rolled down blaring Violent Femmes.July 2, 2013 – 3:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Anita @ Losing Austin - Your 80’s hair rocked! It wasn’t the giant embarrassing to look back on later kind, but the fresh and young variety.July 2, 2013 – 3:37 pmReplyCancel

  • Jennifer - Love it, nice looking horse! I was young in the 80’s, so I mostly had torn up kitten calendar “posters” tumb tacked around the top of my ceiling.July 2, 2013 – 4:02 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - So jealous that you got to see U2 in concert not once but 5 times and back when there music was absolutely phenomenal. Seriously, so cool and loved the hair, too Kristi, because I also had a similar hairstyle back in the day!!July 2, 2013 – 6:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate Hall - …I’m high as a kite, I just might, stop to check you out! Loved that – although I never got into that song until college even though it had been out a while. Loved seeing your pics and reading about you growing up in the 80s. Can’t wait to see next week’s list. I love these 80s posts!July 2, 2013 – 9:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Middleage Monologues - I am lovin’ the hair! My mother owned a chain of beauty salon’s in the 80’s so I can totally understand how you feel about some of the hair styles that you rocked! OH and U2 is just a given…NICE!!!July 2, 2013 – 10:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Jean - Kristi, this was such a “get to know you” without feeling like a “Hello, my name is” I agree with Jen, you were adorbs and I cannot believe that people didn’t see that in the 80’s!July 2, 2013 – 10:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - I think if you and Jen had a contest of who was rocking the best look in the 80s you would win with that rattail! We should have an 80s photo contest complete with an 80s musical montage!July 3, 2013 – 12:32 amReplyCancel

  • Jak - Aaaaaaah the 80’s! I’ve been looking forward to this era. Gotta love the fashion and hair styles!

    I love the Violent Femmes (or at least that song lol). It sounds like you had some badass times and attended some sweet concerts! I’ve never been, or heard of, Red Rocks so that may call for some investigating.

    I personally like U2 a lot, but most of what I’ve heard is the mainstream releases (except Joshua Tree I think the album was). Haven’t really heard anything new by them, though.

    I was just telling someone how time seems to be going by so much faster now compared to when in school/as a kid. That shit dragged on forever lol Now I wish it was like that again.

    Looking forward to Part 2 of your 80’s me’s!

    P.S. I think I’d have to have paid for a sucker >.<

    Jak at The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkJuly 4, 2013 – 6:33 amReplyCancel

  • Kate - Awww love all these photos! Memories!!July 4, 2013 – 7:08 pmReplyCancel

  • Donetta - I remember coming back from the beach my 7th grade summer in 1988 and my face being burnt, and that ‘summer beach hair’. Those days were pretty cool and the music was too!! Enjoyed your post!!July 4, 2013 – 11:03 pmReplyCancel

  • Melissa@Home on Deranged - I knew we were kindred spirits from the 80s! I had that exact same hairdo, only in very dark brown, seeing as I hadn’t stepped into the world of color just yet. And Red Rocks…how many times did I try to convince my parents to let me go? And then my best girlfriends went to UC-Boulder and I thought – now is my chance. But alas and alack, still hasn’t come to pass. And I still pride myself on loving U2 before they became U!!friggin’2!!
    And I dated a guy with a burnt orange t-top Camaro. Because that was the coolest thing to do. Even if he was a complete tool.
    Thanks for the road trip down memory lane!July 9, 2013 – 3:13 pmReplyCancel

There are days when thankful is hard, until it’s not.  Me, sitting here, now, procrastinating writing this post because the past few days have been less than ideal.  And yet, when I stew in regret and want to blow off this post because I’m not feeling it, I realize how important it is to remind […]

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  • Lisa Nelson - Hey Kristi,

    I am sorry that you had such a bad week, but am happy that you find a bit of happiness out of the mess. That’s what’s important.

    Life is a bunch of peaks and valley’s . The peaks are what gets you through the valleys. You have some peaks here. These are what will get you through. Focus on them – think about them – they will bring up your mood.

    Being a Mother is hard enough. You have so much on your plate. It’s all about getting up and just pushing through it.

    That little boy is so very cute! HUGS. I hope your Sunday gets better.June 30, 2013 – 5:13 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Oh Kristi, I am so sorry you had a rough week and trust me I have had my fair share, too. We all have times like this, but please know I am thinking of you and hoping this week is a better one for sure for you. Sending hugs and good thoughts your way!! 🙂June 30, 2013 – 8:10 amReplyCancel

  • karen - beautiful things to be thankful for. I know when something hapens and I feel like I am being picked on by the universe, I think about those who have it worse, those who do not have options or resources.

    Being a mom is hard babe, added to that extra challenges, but I think you rock as a mom and know you are giving the best in everything for your son. (HUGS)June 30, 2013 – 8:23 amReplyCancel

  • christine - Bad weeks suck. It’s a fine line to walk, our hurts and pains are real to us, but we don’t want to wallow in them. Not because others have it worse, but because wallowing is just not productive or helpful. Nor will it make us feel better. It’s why I love this hop Considerer put together. By focusing on and thinking about the good things in our lives, we feel better. By looking at how bad others have it, it seems like we’re guilting ourselves into getting over our “piddly, little” complaints.
    So glad you decided to go ahead with the thankful post even if you weren’t feeling it.
    That is an awesome expression on your little boy’s face.June 30, 2013 – 10:53 amReplyCancel

  • clark - well, I can tell you what I’m *not* thankful for… for reading

    “…being able to clip my teeth with toenail clippers”

    thanks a frickin *lot* yo

    I enjoyed your Post otherwise (oh man! this is not getting out of my head), and I kinda know what you mean by keeping it in perspective (…metal clippers!!! on teeth!??!) and to have the option of not having to work constantly, which pretty much characterizes 60 to 80 hours a week.

    (damn… this image is not clearing out… the sound of toenail clippers on teeth!!!)

    I would say, “hey Kristi, I enjoyed your Post today but that would be a total damn lie!!!”

    lol*

    * no! I mean it! it’s a horrifying concept and totally messed up my morning… ayiee**

    ** lolJune 30, 2013 – 11:03 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - CLARK,
    Laughing at your comment and feel like I owe you an apology. Sorry for the crap imagery. It is pretty awful, huh? Yeah, sharing my nightmare with the world – a mistake perhaps?? A good topic to analyze on the Doctrine though, so there’s that.June 30, 2013 – 11:13 amReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for real. - What book are you reading? Thanks for that post- I needed a little reality check myself. Oops, crying kids x 2. Crap. Love you!June 30, 2013 – 11:45 amReplyCancel

  • K - Ugh, I hate crap weeks! I hope next week is better! I second Stephanie though — I really appreciate this post because sometimes I, too, forget to be thankful for all of the wonderful things in my life.

    P.S. I love love love that picture of Tucker! OMG. He is too cute.June 30, 2013 – 12:07 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - Kristi

    no problem*! there is something…. cool about such a transcendently horrifying concept as your teeth things is… makes me think about what I used to call ‘the space creeps’ which came out of those childhood fever dreams where you believed you were awake but your fingers were the size of boat bumpers, really big, but still a part of your hand which remained normal size.

    *no problem as in ‘no big deal’ not ‘no problem’ the way that the teenage kids at the gas station say, instead of ‘your welcome’… please stop me if I am indulging in being an old person but if I say, “why Kristi, thank you for the Comment at the Doctrine’ you would say, ‘you’re welcome’…. ‘no problem’ is just not really sounding like a equal alternative**
    **damn! I *am* sounding like an old person…I stop nowJune 30, 2013 – 12:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Likewise, I’m sorry to hear your week was rough (that dream! WHOA! I used to have braces and now my teeth are itching just thinking about dental work) but you know what, my friend, you absolutely PWNED this attitude thing I’ve been getting at. You took your crappy week by the throat and shook the good things out of it.

    You are an inspiration.

    And look – not only did Tucker eat, but he totally ‘got’ the bargaining thing you were aiming for (albeit in the end), and DID IT. What a star 🙂June 30, 2013 – 12:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Melissa@Home on Deranged - Sweet, sweet Kristi. Even though our logic tells us of all the things for which we have to be thankful (especially that smiling cookie face!), sometimes our emotions and even our body tell us that life is hard. And it sucks. I don’t think that’s a weakness on our parts, unless we wallow. And you, my friend, are no wallower. Wishing you happy thoughts for a better week – hey, there’s a holiday in this one!June 30, 2013 – 12:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate - I love reading books about WWII and the Holocaust but they really do put things in perspective. It is hard to believe it happened so recently that people are still alive who lived through it. Happy weekend!June 30, 2013 – 6:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Natalia Frost - Crap weeks suck, been there, done that! I hear you! But that is why I am so grateful that you guys created this blog hop, it has helped so much in finding the good even during those not so good weeks. So… thank you!June 30, 2013 – 7:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Henriette - Ten things I’m grateful for:

    1. That i was able to access healthcare while pregnant, although it was a stressful and dramatic pregnancy, and deliver a perfect healthy baby girl under the supervision of a fab gyn/ob. In China

    2. That I had access to fab health care for my then two year old baby girl who was barely conscious due to a rapid onset bronco pneumonia. In China. She got the best treatment available. In a lot of countries she would died, and a lot of mothers face this daily. Loosing their kids to infections.

    3. That I , as a woman, always have had access to free education from first grade until graduation from university. I was never shot at on my way to school, neither was my school burnt down. And my father has always supported me and my choices.

    4. I can vote. A privilege a lot of our sisters fought for, and there are millions that still today don’t have that privilege.

    5. I married the man I love. Not the man my parents choose for me. Cause they never had to.

    6. That I , as a woman, can speak my mind. I can disagree with anyone whenever,
    and stand up for my beliefs without facing prosecution , a death sentence or ramifications. ( I did get beaten up once here in the US for voicing my political beliefs to a redneck. I’m ok with it, taking one for the team)

    7. Clean water, vaccines and antibiotics. Simple stuff that you might take for granted. Trust me, it saves lives and unfortunately a lot of people don’t have access to it. Same goes for food.

    8. That I have been fortunate enough to travel and live in different countries, on different continents. Which leads me to the next;

    9. People. All the different, fantastic people who have thought me something. That made me open my eyes. Who challenged me and my beliefs. The wonderful ladies in India who gave me a seat next to them on a very crowed train. The guy in Thailand who entertained my baby so I could eat my lunch. My baby sitter in China who considered my daughter as her own grand child, knowing I was far away from my own family and friends and needed support. The nurses who always took great care of my daughter, no matter what. The beggar on the street who somehow made me feel we were connected although we both knew I drew the lottery ticket. Not to forget Kristi, who came to France on a business trip. I served her rabbit. She still talks to me…

    10. Wine. I’m so grateful for wine! I don’t even know how I would make it thru it all without wine and good friends to share it with! And the food! I’m in a position where I never have to question if I’m capable to serve my family a home made, nutritious meal. Food is celebration. Every day! And that is what we should be grateful for! Our friends, family and being able to share a meal. Together.June 30, 2013 – 11:01 pmReplyCancel

  • MJM - I’m very sorry to hear that you’ve had a rough few days…that’s no good…but I must say I totally love your attitude…you kick donkey.June 30, 2013 – 11:26 pmReplyCancel

  • Henriette - 11. My neighbors! A lot of them are now some of my best friends. We all help each other out, we cat sit, dog sit or baby sit for each other. We take care of each other and look after each other. Neighbors!June 30, 2013 – 11:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Henriette,
    Wow. Just wow. You should be a blogger. Your list is amazing and it’s really easy to start a blog – for real. The shit you went through IN China…in America…the struggles, the support, the friends, the food, the wine…I am totally in awe, my friend. I think you should begin a blog. You are an amazing writer and have given such a great perspective to this whole 10 things thankful post…one that I was avoiding. I’m ashamed that I was avoiding it. Voting. Freedom. We take it for granted. I hope, very much, that we share a meal and wine soon.
    Huge huge huge love. And thank you for giving me such a new perspective.June 30, 2013 – 11:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Rachel - Henriette, your list should be a blog post! I am thankful that you shared it here. We need to hear your perspective. There is so much to be grateful for.July 1, 2013 – 8:20 amReplyCancel

  • Katia - Henriette, I totally agree with Rachel. Each one of these points could become such a fascinating discussion on its own and it sounds like you might have a really interesting story to share. Could you start with Kristi and the rabbit, please? 😉 In all seriousness, though, your number 9 is wonderful. You could make an Our Land post for Kristi out of that.July 1, 2013 – 8:32 amReplyCancel

  • SocialButterflyMom - Like you, I find that reading helps to give me perspective checks. Be it about the Holocaust or anything less terrible than that, my life is usually better. Great husband, great kid, and a life in which we’re healthy and can afford all that we need.July 1, 2013 – 4:22 pmReplyCancel

  • Shay - I love love love your thankful posts. And you’re right–it doesn’t matter how long it took to get those 2 little bites of chicken down; it’s the fact that he got it and understood. Good for you and good for Tucker, Kristi!! One of these days I’m going to join in with the thankful lists, b/c I love the idea and you’re right–we all have SO much to be thankful for!July 1, 2013 – 4:46 pmReplyCancel

  • Dyanne @ I Want Backsies - “There are days when thankful is hard, until it’s not.” What a beautiful way to state it.July 1, 2013 – 5:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Mytwicebakedpotato - I am thankful that I read this because this has been an emotional week w/my son’s birthday and memories of his adoption day. Those were good memories for the most part and then today happened.

    I ran errands around my town with a piece of my Kind bar melted and smeared in my cleavage. No one said anything! The barista, cashier…even my son. Ugh!

    Despite those up and downs of the week, I am thankful that my son didn’t have a major meltdown after the excitement of his party. 🙂July 2, 2013 – 6:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Henriette… I love to read lists like yours. I have worked in some pretty tough places and whenever I return I can’t believe how self-absorbed we are… how entitled. But inevitably time passes and I forget and become self-absorbed and entitled.

    I agree with Kristi that you should start a blog or some kind of forum to speak out. When I struggle to come up with what I am thankful for, I forget that there are 101 things to be thankful for that *allow* me to be thankful for what I’m struggling to come up with. If that makes sense. More people need to realize this!July 2, 2013 – 11:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Courtney - Kristi, this is beautifully said. Yes, there are days when seeing the good is hard, even when there is soooo much good out there. I am so sorry you are having a tough week. I have been trying to send you happy thoughts since I read this post the first time on Monday. Take care, my friend, every day is a new chance to see something good. Praying for you, especially as you make your way through the middle world or the high functioning word, or motherhood. Those worlds are hard.July 3, 2013 – 2:24 pmReplyCancel

  • Jak - Pfft! Who needs lists?! Walk the Path of the Doctrine 😉

    Sorry to hear you had such a bad week. I feel having this hop makes one more aware and appreciative of the positives that are going on side by side with the negative, but we are just blind to them. Odd needing an “assist” but it truly helps.

    At some point perhaps we won’t need reminders?

    I hate dentists/drs so I try to avoid them as much s possible, but that usually isn’t the best course of action.

    Can’t imagine working 60-80hr weeks weeks! I would… well, I’ve no idea what would happen to me, but I don’t ever want to find out!

    Great pic, is he a little cookie monster? I love my cookies!

    Jak at The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkJuly 3, 2013 – 4:24 pmReplyCancel

Ah, the Fourth of July. We’ve had some good ones.  Last summer, we celebrated youth at the beach and will be doing the same next week. There’s something about sand, sun, and fireworks that make summer summer in a way that it never is up to that point. A couple of years ago, we rented […]

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  • Lori Lavender Luz - Happy early birthday to the young man who changed your life.

    Love this birth story! I can easily see you smacking Robert 😉

    Cheers to your little firecracker!June 28, 2013 – 11:43 amReplyCancel

  • Jessica Smock - This is such a lovely birth story! I love the pictures too. I can’t imagine a more memorable way to think about the Fourth of July. Happy birthday to your boy!June 28, 2013 – 11:48 amReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Awe sweet – how cool to be born on Independence Day. If I had to pick a holiday for a birthday that would definitely be the one. When Christopher was born I was so exhausted I didn’t even care what was coming out if me besides him. My husband likes to remind me that I smelled like a horse. Love the pics! P.S. TN is where were we last weekend.June 28, 2013 – 11:51 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous. Love this. What a story!June 28, 2013 – 1:41 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate - What a fun birthday for him to have! I am jealous! Enjoy this year’s 4th 🙂June 28, 2013 – 1:47 pmReplyCancel

  • clark - It’s incredible!!! Your Post is am exact, near mirror re-telling of most of the Fourth of July(s) that I remember!!*

    See!!?, I told you, it’s like a frickin doppelgänger!!!

    Have a good, hospital-free 4th!

    *except for the epidural**
    **except for the epidural-prompting childbirth thing***
    ***except for the drive to the hospital from the pregnancy thing****
    **** except for the (and I am not addressing the activities that may or may not have occurred in the) house in Gatlainburg, TN*****
    *****but! I did drive through Estes Park on last year’s Doctrine Road Trip!!June 28, 2013 – 2:00 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - This is so very sweet. How awesome for him to be born on your favorite holiday. Such great memories, and many more to come! My son was born in December, a few days after my favorite holiday, Christmas. He is and will always be my favorite Christmas present ever. 🙂June 28, 2013 – 2:01 pmReplyCancel

  • Maggie Amada - Awesome fourth of July story, Kristi. Sounds like you have this holiday set for life with Tucker. 🙂 Happy Fourth of July to you and Happy Birthday to Tucker.June 28, 2013 – 2:34 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for real. - Oh! I love it! I love that it is his birthday, and he gets to celebrate every birthday with fireworks. I love that you get to spend it at the beach. So jealous. I also love that you peed on the doctor and told us about it. And I LOVE the photos. Beautiful post, friend- you totally captured the magic. I’m all tingly…June 28, 2013 – 2:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Life, Unexpectedly - Love the story! Especially the birth parts, I think only moms can truly appreciate that. Happy 4th and happy birthday to your little man!June 28, 2013 – 4:29 pmReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - I think this had to be hands down the best 4th of July ever. Thank you for sharing and Happy Birthday to Tucker!! Loved all the pictures and seriously thank you for sharing with us here!! Also thank you for always linking up with us, too 🙂June 28, 2013 – 4:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - The 4th of July is my son’s half birthday. He makes sure that everyone knows it. You know, just in case anyone wants to produce a half birthday present for him!

    I love Tucker’s shirt “Boob Man”, that’s awesome! I love all of the pictures. Happy 4th! 😀June 28, 2013 – 5:15 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Aw, happy, happy birthday to your little boy.

    That first photo of you in labor is priceless, btw. Holy crap, it hurts.June 28, 2013 – 7:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Kate Hall - Ok, right there in the middle I had tears coming out of my eyes from laughing so hard. Hilarious! Then, oh how sweet. The pictures – beautiful! Happy birthday to Tucker! Have a great week next week!June 28, 2013 – 10:16 pmReplyCancel

  • Tatum - Happy Birthday, Tucker! 4th of July has always been my favorite holiday too (the only one with enjoyable weather in MN) and now I have more reasons to love it!

    PS – getting peed on is an occupational hazard for Oby-GYNs (not the field for me)June 28, 2013 – 10:30 pmReplyCancel

  • Jen - I love this post! I love this story. The 4th is one of my favorite holidays too, I always look forward to it every summer. You and Tucker are lucky ducks! He gets to share his party with the world AND get fireworks! What kid wouldn’t want fireworks on his birthday!!June 28, 2013 – 11:57 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah | LeftBrainBuddha - I love this. You have beautifully captured the amazing and the painful and the embarrassing and the difficult and the awesome of birth. What a great, positive birth story!!! Happy {almost} birthday to Tucker. I loved reading this.June 29, 2013 – 6:57 amReplyCancel

  • karen - *wipes tears* what a beautiful post…what a special day to be born! Isn’t is amazing to go from a two to three? The world is just a better place because of that.

    I had a c-section so I made Tony tell me in detail what it looked like…he just responded with a “war zone”…thanks babe.June 29, 2013 – 9:42 amReplyCancel

  • Shay - I love it! And how in the HELL did you look that good giving birth?? I mean, I know you weren’t in the thick of it right then, but still!July 1, 2013 – 5:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Nina - Happy 4th AND happy bday to your son. It’s so cool to able to mark time this way. Makes the holiday EXTRA special. My bday is Dec 30. I always felt it would have been better to be right ON New Year’s Ever rather than randomly right before.July 2, 2013 – 6:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Jak - That is certainly a vivid memory! None of your 4th of Julys will be like that, but each will be extra special now!

    No offense, buuuuuuut I’m kind of glad I wasn’t eating while reading that haha! I would have laughed at the fart too >.< how could you not? Just be glad that is all that happ… oh right… the tinkle. Ah well!

    Those are great pictures and I hope this 4th is a blast! Expecting a lot of pics.

    Come to think about it… I've not ever had a 4th on the beach… I'm deprived!

    Jak at The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkJuly 3, 2013 – 6:58 amReplyCancel

  • Joy - Love this post! How you described what it took to get Tucker to you melted my heart. This will always be the best part about Independence Day! xoxoJuly 23, 2013 – 2:55 amReplyCancel

What day is it?  It’s Wednesday! Wednesdays are for empathy and wonder!  I am honored (she would say honoured) to feature another excellent writer in the Our Land Series which began here because you guys were so supportive and wonderful. I’ve recently gotten to know Lizzi (aka The Considerer at Considerings) and am so very glad for it. She’s […]

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  • Janine Huldie - I look forward to this series every week now and Lizzi thank you so much fro being so brave and courageous in sharing your story here with all of us. I did know q bit from following you on your own blog, but your words and message are very clear and quite inspiring. Thank you seriously and seriously keep doing your thing. You are truly amazing and you are totally entitled and then some to your feelings and emotions. You own them quite profoundly.June 26, 2013 – 9:43 amReplyCancel

  • Kerri - I have a very dear friend who suffers (is that the right word) from infertility. Last summer we were out and she finally told me that it was difficult for her to be around us with the girls. That she loves and enjoys them but it always leaves her feeling left out. She and her husband have a great marriage and have accepted (their words, not mine) that they will never have children. But it took them a long time to have peace with that acceptance. Like you, I am sure, they would have been the best parents in the world. I only say this to tell you while you may gain peace, it will be hard fought for and you will be tripped up now and again. But you are not alone and that (I hope) brings some comfort.

    Thank you for sharing your pain. You are right that we sometimes take our kids for granted, even those who struggle.June 26, 2013 – 9:59 amReplyCancel

  • Diane - Lizzi, thank you.June 26, 2013 – 10:43 amReplyCancel

  • Cyndi - Your words brought tears to my eyes. I suffered a miscarriage in 2011 right after my oldest brother was killed in a car accident and my cat died on the same freakin’ day.
    We couldn’t try again for awhile. I just couldn’t. Too.Much.Trauma.
    Now, we are trying again…and started sometime in 2012.
    Nothing’s happened.
    And I don’t have health insurance – yes, to add insult to injury. I hope to get it back through my job, soon, but for now, we can’t even go find out what’s wrong.
    Maybe I don’t want to know.
    And yes, my half sister with her three kids (she just had one in March) who is ten years younger than I am…
    And I didn’t want kids until a few years ago because I didn’t know if I’d make a good enough mother…
    And now I feel like life is punishing me for waiting until I was ready.
    And dang…sorry…I just let it all out here…but it is nice that someone out there understands.
    Sniff sniff.June 26, 2013 – 10:55 amReplyCancel

  • Melissa@Home on Deranged - When I had my molar pregnancy, my ob-gyn said to me, “It wasn’t really ever a baby, after all.” I wanted so badly to scream, “Maybe not to you!” But instead, I cried. Rivers. Buckets. Daily. Nightly. Thank you for offering this insight and giving others some hints on how to talk about loss.June 26, 2013 – 11:53 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Not sure if I can respond to these as slickly as Kristi manages, but we’ll see!

    Janine – I’ve really valued your support and feedback over at mine, and I do appreciate your ongoing presence there. It’s great having that platform to provide such honesty, even in the stark moments, but I am LOVING that I’ve been invited into Our Land to continue spreading the knowledge, understanding and empathy.

    Kerri – ‘Suffer’ is exactly the right word. It’s such an inbuilt thing to the human psyche, to reproduce, to follow the patterns of our ancestors, to ensure the survival of our gene pool…and to be so harshly thwarted is no less than suffering. It’s really good that your friend has a strong enough friendship with you that she feels comfortable to share her struggles with you. That’s a very precious thing.

    I am further on the path to peace now, but it’s very hard won and there are relapses. I’ll get there, but in the meantime, thanks for looking out for your friend and being there for her 🙂

    Diane – you’re welcome; every little helps and knowledge is power – if all I have done today is help Kristi’s readers to understand a little more about something which is rarely acknowledged, I shall consider that an awesome accomplishment.

    Cyndi – MASSIVE hugs coming your way. Bad enough to have any of those things happen at any time, but three at once must’ve been horrific. And the guilt – ohmydays the guilt – the amount of times I’ve thought ‘If only I hadn’t wanted to go to college…if only we’ve gotten on with it straight away..if only, if only” but to keep grounded – if wishes were horses then beggars would ride, and there is no way but forwards. What’s happened in the past, both incidental and through my choices, is what’s brought me to where I am today, and I am 110% convinced that as terrible as it all has been, Good CAN come of it (like this post and raising awareness). I hope you have some luck on the TTC front soon – I have no doubt you’ll be a fab Mom (you’re a clark, aintcha? you’re more likely to tie yourself up in knots over-thinking it than anything else)

    Melissa – That’s SO HARSH! I would have been writing letters of complaint (in between crying). That was your child, your baby – the human life you created, in its earliest form. How very DARE she try to take that from you. Makes me so cross. I hope things are better for you now (and you have a different OB to go to)June 26, 2013 – 3:33 pmReplyCancel

  • Jennifer - Oh. Crying and sending support and understanding. I had four miscarriages. Thank you for sharing your perspective Lizzie. Thanks Krisit.June 26, 2013 – 5:53 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - This is truly an amazing post. First, I love the switch-up: so many women blogging about infertility are talking about their own, not their husband’s. It does bring up a whole different set of issues. I particularly liked #6 on the “don’t” list. Seriously. We are such a “fixer” society (British and American, apparently!)… the art of listening and empathizing has gone by the wayside.

    Thank you for sharing your story and your words. I’ll be sharing this all around. Look forward to seeing some more writing from you, and I’d like to participate in the Thankful blog hop next time, too. (Although, no promises, because I am shit a hops. Just a fact.)June 26, 2013 – 8:25 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for real. - Oh, Lizzi, I’m not even sure where to begin. Thank you SO much for writing this post. On behalf of anyone experiencing infertility, miscarriage, or even grief and loss of any kind. Your tips were so very helpful, and I hope many people read them and take them to heart. You somehow managed to find the perfect words to articulate what you are going through, and have the most beautiful self-awareness to voice what you need from those around you. I know that I am a mother of two now, but I have experienced three losses, and your words really resonated with me. Irrational or not, I didn’t want to see pregnant women, hear about babies not sleeping through the night, nor did I want to see the “pity face.” You are such a fantastic addition to this amazing series. Wow.June 26, 2013 – 9:40 pmReplyCancel

  • Anon - I am so thankful to read those thoughts. I’m pretty regularly commenting here but I’ve never talked about wanting to die after I felt like a not mom, thank you. I mean you didnt say you want to die but sometimes i do. not suicide, more a gift to moms who are and dont want to. am still having a hard time but we are looking at Ivf and taking a loan to adopt. We have faith. I hope we both get our dream. Thanks Kristi for having this today. I like them all but this means things to me. Thanks for finding lizzy to write this.June 27, 2013 – 12:40 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Jennifer – so sorry to hear that you’ve had so many losses. There are no words for that kind of heartbreak *hugs*June 27, 2013 – 2:32 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Deb – Thank you for your kind comments. I’m so glad to hear that after the heartbreak of three losses, you’re a happy mummy to two – that’s very encouraging. I hope one day I shall be.

    And yes – it’s like I’ve known it’s irrational to have such strong negative feelings, but there they still were, making me not able to cope. And it’s such an un-talked-about thing that I feel the levels of understanding (even if so many people have gone through it themselves) are relatively low. I only hope this post helps a few people learn a bit more about it.June 27, 2013 – 8:04 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Deb and Stephanie – so sorry – I’ve answered your comments with the names backwards! Deb’s reply is for Stephanie- I’ll now do an actual response to Deb *facepalm*

    Deb – you’re right – it brings such a different slant to it, and even in a facebook infertility group of 50 odd women, there are only two or three where the fertility issue is on the male side. It’s astonishing how rare our particular set of circumstances is, but it’s SO different to manage and cope with.

    Thanks for saying you’ll share this – the more people who know, the better! I hope to see you at the weekend in the blog hop if you make it over 🙂June 27, 2013 – 8:16 amReplyCancel

  • considerer - Dear Anon

    I don’t know if I will have seen your comments here or not but it sounds like you’ve had a really tough time to deal with. It’s hard to offer much through a comment box, but I feel where you’re coming from and you have my thoughts and prayers with you. If you ever want to talk, feel free to send me an email on parax2298@gmail.com – it’s the hardest thing to reconcile, and never easy to go through alone. I hope you have plenty of support from people around you *hugs*June 27, 2013 – 8:20 amReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - I’m heading to work and will comment back to each of you as well but want to reach out to ANON. Please feel free to contact Lizzi directly or contact me. If you use the contact form (black bar on the side – left), you’ll email me directly. I am happy to give you my phone number as well if you’d like to talk or text. I’m so sorry you’re having such a rough time and I promise that there’s so much to live for. Loss is rough and I feel like you should really talk to somebody. Do you have a therapist or a friend who you can share your feelings with? I understand feeling like wanting to die but please know that there is so much to live for and that things will get better. I, myself was adopted. I am sure my parents felt much despair in trying to have children but things worked out for them. Life has a way of changing drastically in such a short time. Huge hugs.June 27, 2013 – 11:34 amReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - This is so well written and so informative-a lot of people don’t tend to look at the husband’s side of infertility. It does amaze me how people can be so insensitive to people in situations like yours when they say things! Thank you for listing not only the things NOT to do but the things TO do!

    That being said, I would love to come hang out with you and distract you with something shiny. 🙂

    Good luck in your journey-you will be an awesome mom when the time comes!June 27, 2013 – 1:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Hi Sarah – thank you – shiny distractions are always helpful?

    Glad to have presented two good sides to it – and no, few people think about the man’s side of things (unless they’re in the situation, in which case they rarely think about anything else!) And yes, the insensitivity can be shocking sometimes! Even when folk mean well!

    Thanks for the best wishes 🙂June 27, 2013 – 6:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Melanie - I don’t have any children and I’m not planning for any anytime soon, but I do understand where you’re coming from. I’m anosmic and you REALLY hit home when you mentioned people making suggestions. I would LOVE to have a sense of smell, trust me, I’ve heard ALL the suggestions. It might not come back and I only want to hear suggestions from a trained medical professional.

    Pity angers me. I HATE being pitied. I act stoic in all situations because pity seriously disables me.

    I loved the post. I wish you the best of luck. Keep trying, and, of course, keep blogging.June 28, 2013 – 12:35 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - Melanie – that must be such a tough thing to live with! In a way at least infertility you can kind of distance yourself from. I really hope that one day your sense of smell comes back soon. My best friend’s mum lost her sense of smell, and she seemed to really struggle to involve herself with simple things like eating, because there were no olfactory cues. It wasn’t a condition I’d ever heard of or really considered prior to that.

    Pity is a very difficult thing to face – on the one level, I totally know that the person is trying to show that they care and are (in some way) supportive, but on the other hand I often just want to punch them. It’s another emotional assault, made worse because it’s usually from someone I know and otherwise like.

    I’ll certainly keep blogging – perhaps one day we’ll both have good news to share. Best wishes to you.June 28, 2013 – 8:26 pmReplyCancel

  • K - I read this a few days ago and completely forgot to post my comment!

    Lizzi, I just want to say that I love this post on so many levels, and I love that there are so many different dimensions to Our Land. Thank you for sharing an aspect of Our Land that I hadn’t considered before. With each passing week, I find myself falling more and more in love with this wonderful world of empathy. xoJuly 2, 2013 – 12:41 pmReplyCancel

  • catherine gacad - This is a beautiful post and captures a lot of what I’ve been feeling as I just lost my baby recently. I’ve been keeping a running list of things that I want to say to people who don’t know what to say when someone like us has experienced this kind of loss.July 2, 2013 – 8:09 pmReplyCancel

  • Jak - Sorry it’s taken me a while to get here. I had it up for a few days, but just now got around to reading it (twice over).

    I wasn’t sure if I should respond or not. In fact, I contemplated trying to contact Kristi to see if what I had to say shouldn’t be said, but I think having to ask that answered the question. I think a lot of what I’d say falls on #6 on that first list, and then thoughts of the first list >.<

    As for the first bullet points, I like the third a lot. That is hard for me to manage with my social anxiety, and a lot of times I am said individual. During my first NaNoWriMo last November I was sitting in the corner observing a crowded room during the initial meet and greet.

    It was shocking I even showed up. It wasn't so bad, but I didn't interact much beyond the tasks given us. As I was sitting there someone came over and began talking to me, and now we are friends, along with some of his other friends. Had he not done that, I may not have ever associated with them, or attending "write-ins" with that group (or any for that matter). It was a very moving gesture that could have just as easily been avoided.

    If I can manage the SA more I hope to be able to do that as well.

    As for the rest, I can't pretend or attempt to believe that I understand what you are going through after what you've experienced. Nothing I've endured has been on that same level, in my opinion. I'm glad that there doesn't seem to be any hostility between you and your husband (which I've heard can occur in such situations) due to the stress/depression and needing to lay "blame".

    I can't lie and say I'm not concerned about the hostility that seemed to be laced throughout the first list, though. I won't go into a big speech or the like. Fact is, you aren't alone (in terms of those who have experienced what you are going through now AND those who are supportive in your current time of need). I can only hope eventually as things progress forward that the first list will get smaller and smaller until it no longer exists.

    I truly hope the process you and your husband are looking over/waiting for works. In the meantime I hope you are offered a good deal of distractions.

    Have your emotions and accept them/process them and try to let them go, as you said it comes in waves or just sporadic, etc etc.

    I guess the saving grace/take to heart piece I take from the first list is to not take things personally. Cause I doubt there is anyone specifically wanting to make you feel like shit. So I guess I believe communication remains the key to keeping some semblance of balance, which is what this piece offers.

    I'm going to shut up now hahaha I will ramble on and on and on.

    I'd give you hugs if I were able! *Hugs* Digi-hugs are all I have now, though 🙁

    Thank you for sharing this, it couldn't have been easy with how personal and sensitive the topic is.

    Jak at The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkJuly 3, 2013 – 6:44 amReplyCancel

  • Considerer - K – Our Land is a marvellous place. I am so thrilled to be part of it.

    Catherine – I’m so sorry to hear about your loss 🙁 Talking about it was one of the things I found hardest (well, people talking to me about it, in fact), which inspired the post somewhat. I hope you find it useful.

    Jak – You’re right – there was a lot of hostility in that first list. I know my infertility/miscarriage experience is not the same as everyone else’s, but popular opinion suggests that these are the struggles we (as a group) come up against again and again and again. It’s not that those with children are necessarily doing anything wrong – it’s just that we’re hurting too much to cope with it, and the pain and bewilderment renders us very upset and angry, then upset and angry about BEING upset and angry. It can cycle quite viciously.

    The other person the list is aimed at is the meddler, the ignorant one, the insensitive one. They perhaps don’t know better, but that’s partly why I wrote the list – to educate.

    *HUGS* to youJuly 19, 2013 – 9:21 amReplyCancel

  • Snapback - In the football cap to get any celebration or celebration is a good popular National trend. Hockey caps came into being around often the core 18th century and even became famous at the beginning of the 19th one hundred year. A classic snowboarding cap was made of cotton fabric having a new charge large enough to help protect the wearer’s vision through the sun or even bad weather. Traditionally, a cloth-covered button was sewn on top rated of a hockey limit, and grommets or maybe eyelets were positioned all-around often the cap regarding setting up.January 21, 2020 – 8:00 amReplyCancel

Remember Simon and Garfunkel?  They were awesome, huh?  Bridge Over Troubled Water was one of my favorites, ever. Here’s a little story for you about two dudes in the 70’s – I imagine they were listening to this song while having the following conversation. “Hey Pal, what’s up?” the guy in the stunning purple bell […]

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  • Kerri - All this time I have been wondering where the pet rock came from. Thanks for clearing the mystery. Now I can wonder about more important things, like how the mood ring worksJune 25, 2013 – 9:38 amReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - The 70s-responsible for pet rocks and chia pets! Duuuuuuude!June 25, 2013 – 9:41 amReplyCancel

  • Janine Huldie - Seriously, only you would think of this and love it!! Kristi, once again your pictures totally brought all together!! 🙂June 25, 2013 – 9:44 amReplyCancel

  • clark - weird has a new name!*

    “…are you goin ..to nah anh anh
    parsley and sage, Rosemary’s on time”

    * I say this with respect, envy and admiration**
    ** lolJune 25, 2013 – 9:52 amReplyCancel

  • Diane - The pet rock was brilliant! Brilliant! Talk about making something out of nothing. And to think this is where it all started . . .June 25, 2013 – 10:10 amReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - I’m digging those plaid pants.June 25, 2013 – 10:54 amReplyCancel

  • Kate - I did not- but I did have a Furby. Now those were weird!June 25, 2013 – 11:42 amReplyCancel

  • nataliedeyoung - Haha, this is so funny! My grandpa used to make pet rocks on the side & sell them to local tourist shops!June 25, 2013 – 12:21 pmReplyCancel

  • Emily - Yup, of course I had a pet rock until I FINALLY convinced my parents to get us a dog. And remember the Chia Pet that grew “hair”? I think that is actually still around…June 25, 2013 – 12:25 pmReplyCancel

  • Anita @ Losing Austin - I never had a pet rock and always wanted one! When the pets currently living in my home are no longer living, that’s what my kiddos are getting. No joke.

    To get rich off a rock… my dream.June 25, 2013 – 12:49 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy - Enlighten me please: what is a pet rock??June 25, 2013 – 12:50 pmReplyCancel

  • Kimberly - What happened to the cats???
    My mother in law paints rocks. For real. I have a shit ton in my yard.
    “art”
    You crack me up and gave me the smile I needed today xoJune 25, 2013 – 12:53 pmReplyCancel

  • Jessica - LOL, brilliant! 🙂June 25, 2013 – 2:09 pmReplyCancel

  • MJM - Love it! Very funny…and your artwork is awesome. Girl…you truly are one of the best.June 25, 2013 – 2:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Stephanie @ Mommy, for real. - HA! I totally did not see that coming. I love it when I think you are going to go a certain direction with something, and you completely surprise me. (I wrote this next sentence and then realized how punny it was- You rock, friend! I had to include it, even though it’s dumb. Sorry.) 😀June 25, 2013 – 3:11 pmReplyCancel

  • Jen - And even when you think you suck you’re wrong. You should be doing cartoons for the New Yorker or something. You have no idea how funny you are. Dude, take your advice, YOU DREAM BIG!June 25, 2013 – 3:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Slu - A really great song… Nice choice!!!

    And a really cool “story.” (and pics)

    Have a great week, SluJune 25, 2013 – 6:28 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kerri,
    Holy crap. How DOES the mood ring work???

    Sarah,
    Chia pets! Ha!

    Janine,
    Thanks so much!

    Clark,
    Fine. I’m weird. But I made you go “nah ahn ahn” so I’ve got THAT going for me.

    Dianne,
    The pet rock truly was brilliant! Now if we can just think of the 2013 equivalent!
    June 25, 2013 – 7:19 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Lori,
    I figured you would be. I can send you a pair if you’d like.

    Kate,
    Now I want a Furby!

    Natalie,
    HAHA that’s SO awesome! I love it! Your grandpa sounds cool!

    Emily,
    I totally remember the Chia Pet but never had one. And yay for your parents replacing a silly cold rock with an awesome DOG!

    Anita,
    Yes. To get rich off a rock. That would be wonderful.
    June 25, 2013 – 7:22 pmReplyCancel

  • Jennifer - My step father used to play this song on the piano and sing-this really takes me back. Funny pics!June 25, 2013 – 7:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Joy,
    So in the 70’s this guy joked with his friends about making a rock a pet after they were complaining about their pets. He ended up doing it and making a ton of money (I think he sold millions actually). He put them in a box and they came with an official guide on how to care for them. It was a small rock with eyes and hair glued on. You can learn more if you want to here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pet_rock
    🙂June 25, 2013 – 7:23 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Kimberly,
    I’m dying to see the painted rocks in your yard. Seriously. And the cats ran off because they got tired of plaid pants dude trying to get them high.

    Jessica,
    🙂

    MJ,
    You. Dude. You’re one of the best.

    Stephanie,
    I LOVE that you included that I rock. haha! Glad you weren’t expecting the ending. Lots of build-up I know. (er or not) Thanks, friend!

    Jen,
    Aw. I adore you. Thank you!! Huge thank you!!

    Slu,
    Thanks for stopping by and linking up with us!!

    Jennifer,
    Oh that’s awesome! Thanks!
    June 25, 2013 – 7:27 pmReplyCancel

  • Katia - Agree with Rachel, the originalest! 😀June 25, 2013 – 8:04 pmReplyCancel

  • Jak - Love the comic Kristi!

    The pet rock is one of those creations that keeps my hope alive that someday I too can bring greatness and success into my life!

    Jak at The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkJune 25, 2013 – 9:51 pmReplyCancel

  • Sylvia - Hi I just wanted to let you know that I nominated you for the Super Sweet Blogging award! I know some bloggers don’t like these awards so I’ll understand if you don’t want it!
    http://www.faithfulmomof9.com/super-sweet-blogging-award/

    PS. I remember Pet rocks!June 25, 2013 – 10:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Melissa@Home on Deranged - Never knew that story. It was two guys, wasn’t it? Because if it was two chicks, one would have bought ice cream and they just would’ve sat around crying over the cats. If it was a guy and a girl, well, it probably would’ve ended with the rock. 🙂June 25, 2013 – 11:35 pmReplyCancel

  • Shay - I loved the way the cute pictures led to such a profound message at the end: Follow your dreams. I never get sick of hearing that, because sometimes dreams seem SO hard to achieve, but we simply can’t stop trying. Thanks for this, Kristi!June 26, 2013 – 12:14 amReplyCancel

  • Kate Hall - I always love your pictures. I need to invent a pet rock while listening to S&G. I almost had Kodachrome by PS on my list. He was next in the line up, but got the cut. 🙂June 26, 2013 – 1:18 amReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! The plaid bell bottoms!

    So, this is a false story, right? It’s not like you found out the story of the origin of the pet rock, did you?

    I did not have one, actually. We were a strictly pet-free family, even rocks. After I got a dog when I was 32, I was so mad at my parents for denying me the joy my whole life. 😉June 26, 2013 – 8:13 pmReplyCancel

  • Ilene - I never had a pet rock and I felt totally deprived because of this! I don’t know the story behind the inventor of the pet rock but whatever it is, this should be the real history. Plus, your pictures are boss.February 24, 2014 – 9:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Darcy Perdu (So Then Stories) - YES!! We had a whole FAMILY of pet rocks! So funny! Thanks for bringing back great memory! AND for explaining how the idea came about in the first place!! :o)February 25, 2014 – 10:46 amReplyCancel

  • anyhu - 333333333333333333333333333333333333333October 30, 2014 – 8:48 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya - I laughed out loud! That’s really the story behind the pet rock or you made it up? Forgive me for not knowing, but that’s hilarious either way. My brother had a pet rock.

    As for S&G the first song that came to mind was the one that’s played so much in The Graduate it’s funny. “Hello darkness my old friend….”November 30, 2018 – 6:27 amReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - LOL I totally made it up. I have no idea (!) how the idea for pet rock came about but I imagine it was something like this, right? 🙂 Glad it made you laugh. OMG don’t even get me started on Sounds of Silence (Hello Darkness My Old Friend) song. We sang it at summer camp before I knew it was a real song and I’ll probably love it forever. A new band did it and now Tucker knows the two versions.. Gah. also LOL because life is weird.December 1, 2018 – 10:14 pmReplyCancel

  • Dana - Makes me wonder how many stupid ideas I have had that could have led to something big.

    Perusing your comments also reminded me of people I used to know in the blogosphere! I’m glad I still know you.November 30, 2018 – 2:52 pmReplyCancel

    • Kristi Campbell - OMG same!!! I hadn’t read this when I was trying to comment on your old one and saw Brittnei and it all makes me miss the way it used to be a little bit. Or a lot of bit.December 1, 2018 – 10:15 pmReplyCancel

Yesterday, I wrote a letter to my son.  Not to him now, but to him as an old man.  Reading it reminds me to be thankful for: The time that I do have.  It is limited, but it is here.  I’m thankful for the minutes that I have and am committed to making each one […]

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  • Janine Huldie - Love, love, love that picture of Tucker!! And please don’t feel bad about the food, because Lily is about as normal as you can get and is such a picky eater that there are times I am ready for a padded room trying to get her to eat something or just anything!! So, can relate on that. And yes totally to flip-flops and love the summer for this and so many reasons!! Happy Sunday and great thankful list. Thank you for co-hosting, as always!! 🙂 🙂June 23, 2013 – 11:53 amReplyCancel

  • clark - hey, Kristi, that otter case… I just ordered a tablet (online through my phone company) and I saw the Otter case (among the accessories for $89.00 and I was like, ‘what the hell! that’s 20% of what I’m paying for the damn device!’ so I didn’t order it.

    you be saying that it’d be a sound investment like?

    I totally want to give props to Considerer (aka Lizzie) for going with a 2 day time period for this blog hop. At first, I thought to myself, I thought. ‘oh man! a weekend and 2 days! how do we build the urgency to submit a Post? I am (now!) seeing this format as adding a dimension to this hop that others don’t always have… a sense of conversation (among the Comments and such)

    very cool photoJune 23, 2013 – 12:43 pmReplyCancel

  • Dyanne @ I Want Backsies - My daughter begged for a Lifeproof case for her iPhone, so we got her one for her 14th birthday. And not a month after it was on, she came into my bathroom while I was getting ready, started to sit down on the toilet and *plop* the phone fell out of her back pocket and landed in the toilet. Had it not been for the case, it would have been the end of the phone!

    I love flip flops, too, and I have big, ugly man feet. (Hey, I doll them up with some nail polish and then they just look like big, ugly transvestite feet!)June 23, 2013 – 1:06 pmReplyCancel

  • jhanis - totally agree about the flip-flops! <3June 23, 2013 – 2:47 pmReplyCancel

  • Joy - Oh Kristi, I love your list!!

    I understand your no. 4 so very well because we have feeding issues as well. But as much as I would like that to change I am glad that Sunny is able to eat and to swallow. You get really thankful if you become aware it could be much worse.

    It is SO COOL you were quoted on the NYT!!!

    I only wear flip flops as soon as the temperatures allow it. There are no other shoes for me in summer.

    No. 6 and 9: YES and yes and yes!!!

    Hugs, dear friend!! xoxoxoJune 23, 2013 – 2:58 pmReplyCancel

  • Kerri - Flip flops, agreed! I have been holding off due to lack of a pedicure, but this weekend I said forget about self-conscious toes.

    Ditto on feeding therapy. I don’t care if they only eat 3 things, they are eating!

    And I am dying to know about the Carol Burnett story.

    Have a great weekend!
    PS–I’m thankful for all your help this weekend 🙂June 23, 2013 – 4:20 pmReplyCancel

  • Lori Lavender Luz - That pic is like an instant dose of happiness.

    LOVE CAROL BURNETT!!June 23, 2013 – 4:24 pmReplyCancel

  • Melissa@Home on Deranged - Naturally, I love #1 because I have the same thoughts almost every day, even if I didn’t do it well that day.
    Agree on #4 as well, not just because of g-tubes and buttons, but also because I know people who have kids that only like tortillas with melted cheese and ketchup.
    And of course, #10, because I can’t resist the sheer joy that water play brings.
    Thank you!June 23, 2013 – 4:42 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Janine,
    Thanks for joining and for the reminder that typical kids can be extra-picky eaters as well. We’re all lucky! And double yay for flip flops!

    Clark,
    Well, you know that you’ve now posed the question, that you’ve allowed doubt to seep into your mind — which will lead to less surety in handling your new tablet which will lead to a greater likelihood of dropping it which then will lead to you mentally kicking yourself in the ass for MONTHS about not shelling out another 20% to ensure your new friend’s safety. Or, um. That might just be me. I happen to be clumsy and did not previously purchase the Otter Case. I broke FOUR phones before going AH HA! Time for protection. I do recognize that you may not be as clumsy as I. In which case, I’d still buy it. Peace of mind, dude. Peace of mind.

    And I agree that having this open for two days has led to greater conversations among the comments. I’ve felt that as well and didn’t join until today.
    June 23, 2013 – 5:59 pmReplyCancel

  • Shay - I’m LOVING these thankful posts…oh, and come on. A picture of the toes, please. (And I know that totally sounded pervy and foot fetishy, but whatever. You can’t just say that and then leave us hanging!! Haha)June 23, 2013 – 6:32 pmReplyCancel

  • Considerer - These are as gorgeous as ever! Loving the photo of water play – is that the new camera? Me likee.

    I loved our conversation last night and Carol Burnett truly made my day – though I confess, it was Christine who introduced her to me – I owe her two lawn-mows now!

    Lookit you in the NYT! Props on the quote there – that’s awesome!

    And yes – your son EATS. Four of those six are even wonderfully healthy, as are his ‘sometimes’ things. If he lives on those his whole life (he won’t – he’ll improve – maybe slowly, but he will) he will be healthy, happy and FED.

    When you first said Otter Case I thought it was some awe-inspiring ecological thing about actual otters. I am such a troglodyte – I just have never heard of these things!June 23, 2013 – 6:37 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Dyanne,
    HA HA to big, ugly transvestite feet! Love the image – thank you! And also, big thanks for the reminder on why it’s important to invest in the Otter Case. Glad your daughter’s phone was okay!

    Jhanis,
    Flip flops rule!

    Joy,
    Hugs back, lovely friend. You’re so right that the feeding issues can be so challenging until we remember that so many people are fed 100% by g-tubes and the like. Hope you’ve had a wonderful weekend!

    Kerri,
    I’ll DM you on Facebook with the Carol Burnett video – it’s an awesome one! And yeah, pedicures are so not necessary to enjoy flip flops. Who will care, ultimately?
    June 23, 2013 – 7:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Kristi Campbell - Lori,
    That picture makes me smile huge as well! And I’ll DM you the Carol Burnett video as well!

    Melissa,
    It’s fascinating and wonderful how much people enjoy the water. Tucker can spray the hose for hours really. It’s amazing. And cheap!
    Tortilla with cheese = YUM! The catsup? Eh, not so much…

    Shay,
    You are in fact a total perv for wanting to see a photo of my feet. But that’s okay because your weirdo perviness is part of what makes me lurve you. Because I’m pretty sure that it would be a massive turnout for everybody else, I’ll refrain. However, I may draw ou a photo of them – JUST FOR YOU.

    Considerer,
    YES! That’s the new camera and it takes such better photos than my trusty iphone! I love it. Love love. I am able to capture action shots that I’d never have been able to previously!
    Our convo last night was awesome and I appreciate the share of the video! Hilarious!! So wait – you owe Christine lawn mows? So if I show you something cool, you’ll come mow my lawn? You have no idea how badly it needs it. Just today I said on Facebook that others may see another rainy day but that I see another excuse for hubs to not mow the lawn. Seriously, we’re going to need to add a car on blocks to it soon.
    And yes, Tucker eats. We truly are blessed. Thanks for the reminder also that he is FED. Too many people in the world are hungry.
    HA to the Otter Case! Nah, it’s just a protective thingie for the iPhone.
    Thanks again for sharing your awesome idea with us and allowing me to co-host (even though I was so late to the partay!).June 23, 2013 – 7:31 pmReplyCancel

  • christine - I will be the lone dissenter and say I hate wearing flip-flops. I can’t walk in them. I always have to have my toes curled to make sure they stay on my feet.
    Carol Burnett is one of the funniest women ever, and she was brilliant at finding funny people to perform with her.
    My oldest and I were just talking yesterday about the lack of cicadas. Are they coming or not? (I’ll click on your quote in a second.)
    Water play on a hot day is always fun.June 23, 2013 – 10:39 pmReplyCancel

  • Sarah Almond - Today I am thankful for family. 😀

    That food list doesn’t suck at all! My son has branched out a little from his “foods that start with ‘CH’ list”, which I’m also thankful for. Think I’m kidding about that? I’m not (can you say OCD…) 😉

    I love this concept for a link up!June 24, 2013 – 12:19 amReplyCancel

  • Anita @ Losing Austin - I adore that picture of him! And I promise you, even typical three year olds are very picky on the food!June 24, 2013 – 4:52 pmReplyCancel

  • Kenya G. Johnson - Love your list! I haven’t seen or heard anymore about the bug thing and I am not a bit disappointed.June 25, 2013 – 4:18 pmReplyCancel

  • Jak - Another great, heartfelt list.

    I know it can be hard at times, but at the end of the day being appreciative of the time you do get to spend with your son, friends, and family is important. It’s one of those things some [read: many] take for granted. Even I struggle with it sometimes.

    Your #4 is anything but sucky!

    I maybe snuck a peek at the comment about flip-flops being called thongs. How saddened I would be if someone I was taking on a date expressed they would be wearing thongs only to find she meant footwear 😉 lol

    Let’s go a week without dropping your gadgets mmmkay? Kthxbye!

    Jak at The Cryton Chronicles & Dreams in the Shade of InkJune 25, 2013 – 9:45 pmReplyCancel

  • Deb @ Urban Moo Cow - I like this hop idea, a lot. I’ll have to do it next time. It’s the same idea as smiling in the mirror to make yourself happy; it actually works. And saying you’re grateful makes you be grateful. Win-win.

    I was recently thinking of you and the cicadas for some reason. Glad you haven’t even seen one. 😉June 26, 2013 – 8:05 pmReplyCancel

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