Hi! My name is Kristi Campbell, and I live in the DC area with my husband Robert and our son Tucker. When he was a baby, Tucker seemed to meet all of his milestones in a timely manner, and we weren’t concerned about his development at all. It must have been when he was about...
Moving in to a home is no joke. We’re settled in enough now that it’s functional, but now I still have all the daily tasks of normal family life–dishes, laundry, keeping the children alive–in addition to unpacking, moving in and decorating. Which basically means I get very little done in a typical day. I...
Spending money on the house is SO hard for me. I want a nice space because this is where I spend all my time, and I think it helps set the tone of the house… but there are always so many other worthy ways to spend the money. Sigh. I try to just be really grateful for what I have and save patiently for other things. Like getting rid of my ugly, scratched up kitchen floor.ReplyCancel
Since you don't have much to do (ha ha), this would be a good time to update your blog picture with L and PSP to include Zuzu. Also, there is nothing wrong with wanting your house to be a beautiful space. My two college-age daughters live hundreds of miles away, but come home to visit often to see me, their dad, and also, their home. They miss this house like a family member when they are not here. My older daughter says, "Our house is beautiful and peaceful, like a sanctuary, but a loud and crazy sanctuary!"ReplyCancel
Don't feel guilty about wanting your home to be beautiful. As an artist, you couldn't have it any other way. It is a necessity for you, like having a place to sit is a necessity. You wouldn't go without a couch or chairs or a kitchen table, you can't go without beauty. I can totally relate. Just a funny sidenote, I grew up in a house that was practically empty because my mother didn't want to put anything she didn't LOVE into her beautiful house. It took until I was about 15 to have furniture in every room, but even when the rooms were empty she had art on the walls!ReplyCancel
Attention Please,
This is to announce to the General public about a genuine lender online that helped me when i was in financial difficulties. I am Mrs Giselle Dawn living in Virginia, Manassas, USA. I was stuck in a financial situation and i needed to refinance my business and also to buy a home. I tried seeking loans from various loan firms both private and corporate but never with success, and most banks declined my credit. But as God would have it, i was introduced to a private loan lender by names Mr. Crist Luis who gave me a loan of $500,000USD and today my business has improved and I'm now a owner of a home. So, I'm here to let you know that if you must contact any firm with reference in getting a loan with low interest rate of 2% and better repayment plans and schedule, please contact Mr.Crist Luis. He doesn't know that I'm doing this but i will like others to know that there are still some good persons out there who is still willing to assist those in financial difficulties so i decided to let people know more about him. You can contact him through his email at {cristluisloanservices@outlook.com} to get a genuine loan offer today.ReplyCancel
Dear Sir/Madam
Are you a business man or woman? Are you having financial distress or you want to fulfill that dream of yours and you need fund? Are you having difficulties in obtaining a loan from hard lenders or banks because of their high loan fees/requirements? Do you need a loan for any legitimate reason?
Then worry no more as the' Thomas Loan Company" has come to offer loans to interested applicants both locally and overseas no matter the s*x or location but age must be 18 years and above. We offer
loans ranging from $10,000.00 (Ten Thousand United States Dollars to $50,000,000.00 (Fifty Million United States Dollars) on a 3% interest rate, under a collateral or non-collateral loan process which can either be on a short or long term loan depending on the applicant choice.
we offer personal loans, debt consolidation loans, venture capital, business loans, student loans, home loans or loans for any legitimate reason.
For further enquirers and to apply for a loan from us, please feel free to contact our application desk via this email: robinloanservices@gmail.com
Regards,
Robin Toby LOAN SERVICE (CEO) ReplyCancel
I have a terrible time pulling the trigger on anything more than painting. Partly this is because I have a 1926 house so everything needs work, but partly it's my innate frugality. I have just made myself a promise that I will fork over the $50-75 (WOO HOO) needed to mulch and plant with ground cover my parking strip, which is super trashy at the moment. One thing at a time. But I've been cruising area rugs and duvet covers too… 😉ReplyCancel
I love what you do with your homes! So cool that you thrifted that acrylic table – lucky! Nice to know that you take your time, too. I don't think I've ever "finished" a home before we've moved away.
Also I have been thinking lately how I really need a Miggy original on my wall. Can't wait to see some paintings for sale.ReplyCancel
Are you there looking for a business loan today or any other kind of loan of your choice then i will advise you to contact Mr. Viggo Davis or (viggodavis@gmail.com) or (+1-717-524-4566) through text or call to get a legitimate loan today with better repayment schedule, no social security number required and no credit check required, 100% Guaranteed. ReplyCancel
To those in need of financial support regarding all kinds loans!!!
I'm Tia Bond from USA. I was able to get a loan from this firm owned by Mr. Viggo Davis after i read some vital info about their loan programs online then i decided to contact them and i was funded $462,000 without much time wasted. Have you be declined for a loan from your bank or any other organization, then i will advise you to contact Mr Viggo email [viggo_davis@outlook.com] or through his cell phone [+1-717-524-4566] if you are in need of any kind of loans such as: personal loans, business loans, mortgage loans and more. Contact Mr Viggo with your name, include the amount that is needed and your contact number to obtain a stress free loan. Working with them was a wonderful experience which cannot be regretted, will forever be thankful to Mr. Viggo Davis and also God almighty whom made my dreams became reality.ReplyCancel
I live in UK London and i am a happy woman today? and i told my self that any lender that rescue my family from our poor situation, i will refer any person that is looking for loan to him, he gave me happiness to me and my family, i was in need of a loan of $250,000.00 to start my life all over as i am a single mother with 3 kids I met this honest and GOD fearing man loan lender that help me with a loan of $250,000.00 U.S. Dollar, he is a GOD fearing man, if you are in need of loan and you will pay back the loan please contact him tell him that is Mrs Anita, that refer you to him. contact Mr.Alfred Kessinger,via email:(am.invest@hotmail.com)Thank youReplyCancel
I have just taken out my first personal loan and i must say i am extremely impressed as to how straightforward the services is. All i had to do was applied and filled out the application form and submit it! I was then told in about 10 minutes that i was accepted and that the funds has been approved and on the way to my bank after submitting the required information’s and i received a loan of $35,000 USD! Extremely impressive. Now i have my own car and also have my own business thanks to Jenas Pedro LOAN FIRM. Apply for your loan today without any stress with Jenas Pedro LOAN FIRM email them now on ( jp_loanfirm@hotmail.com ). Thanks.ReplyCancel
I was looking for a personal loan and ended up at JB-Funding. After giving my information, I received quite a few offers. When I made my choice and followed the instructions, I had my loan approved and my money within 32 hours. I recommend JB-Funding when it comes to giving out loan of your choice such as business, mortgage and so many others. Give it a try. There is no obligation if you decide you don't want a loan. Reach out to them now at/ +17177150233 you can also text if not answering ReplyCancel
I was looking for a personal loan and ended up at JB-Funding. After giving my information, I received quite a few offers. When I made my choice and followed the instructions, I had my loan approved and my money within 32 hours. I recommend JB-Funding when it comes to giving out loan of your choice such as business, mortgage and so many others. Give it a try. There is no obligation if you decide you don't want a loan. Reach out to them now at/ jbf_info@zoho.comReplyCancel
Jon Billy Funding was very helpful when i needed financial backup for my business by supporting me financially with their funding services (JBF) have the best rates and pay back terms. I must say Mr Jon is the best and indeed very helpful providing any type of funding to anyone serious and trusted. See this ( https://youtu.be/gC6tv8EABQI ) for more info about getting any loan help or reach out directly to him at ( jonfunding@gmail.com )
This is us about 2 months ago driving to our new home in Ohio. 2 in the morning, stupid tired and 17 hours of driving…this is what I said yes to. Today is our 9 year anniversary. I just got back from a last minute and somewhat urgent doctors appointment, I’m sitting here...
Migz, you are my writing hero! I need to start writing some thing every day, because this is just beautiful, and you are so good to write this on hold with insurance and under such stress. Anyways, E & I just celebrated 9 yrs. on the 30th! And by celebrated I mean barely remembered to say "Happy Anniversary!" I hope you get some answers soon and things become less urgent. Sincerely, Jillz 😉ReplyCancel
We are celebrating our ninth anniversary on Saturday and I totally get what you mean about the craziness. We just had our fourth, and just today I looked at my husband and asked him, "What have we done?" But all the craziness and challenge gives so much more dimension to who we are now and the strength of our relationship. Beautiful post. Thank you.ReplyCancel
Hi Miggy, I am a mom with limb difference and I have three little girls roughly the same ages as your three lovelies. I just wanted to let you know that there is no reason why L can't do everything she wants in life someday, including get married and have kids. Growing up watching a lot of TV and movies, I didn't think there was a person out there for me, but once I started college I had a lot of boyfriends. Sure, some of them couldn't handle the curious stares but most could, and my husband still tells me that I am the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. And yes, marriage is hard sometimes, and life is even harder, but things have a way of working out or passing by eventually. My 15th anniversary was in June. Anyway, if you ever have any questions for me about growing up with limb difference, just let me know and I would be happy to answer them.ReplyCancel
Lucia–Thank you. What a beautiful comment and honestly something I needed to hear. Marriage and life are still hard, even with all my limbs if that's any consolation. 🙂 I'm glad you found a man who isn't bothered by curious stares and who loves you for who you are. Maybe you'd like to participate in a spotlight sometime? I'd love to hear more from your perspective. Email me if you're interested at thislittlemiggy at gmail dot com. ReplyCancel
Right before I got married everyone, I swear everyone, told me that marriage "was hard!" So much in fact that it irritated me. I couldn't believe how often it was said and I thought they were raining on my parade. And then 1 year later, I got it, 4 years later I really really got the message, and then well, it's still ups and downs, but now I get it. Happy 9 years. We get there in a couple months too. 🙂ReplyCancel
I know…it is a bit of a spoiler. And I will say marriage is harder for some people than others…I do think some people have a pretty breezy marriage–I know for me and my personality it will always take effort and work. And that's OK. Good is still good. Anyway, happy almost 9th. Now come move next door to us. ReplyCancel
Not to sound creepy (too late – that always comes off as creepy, doesn't it? ha), but I think yours is my favourite blog out there. You keep it real and don't try to pretend that your life is glossy magazine pages. And I really really appreciate that. Because my life with 2 babies and a medical resident husband is NOT glamour and glitz (just typing those words almost makes me laugh out loud). But it is beautiful nonetheless. And it seems like yours is a thing of beauty, too. Happy anniversary!ReplyCancel
Here’s how I know my stress-ometer is ticking at an unhealthy pace: I start being annoyed and frustrated at my kids for being kids. Right now I have too much to do and I remind them of this often. And the more I remind them, the more frustrated I get. Mom’s BUSY, I say. I...
I know I’ve shared this story before, but for this post it bears repeating. When I was applying to my BFA program in college I had to ask a professor to be my advisor and at the time there was only one professor I was working with, so it was a no brainer. Sometime...
WORD. I have a family member who represents a strong feminist position and a wife who feels like her sister looks down on her or doesn't think she gets it. It breaks my heart that my wife, who loves her siblings more than just about anything in this world, feels this way. None of my words hold any weight because I'm a man. Her sister acts lovingly and they are close, but when she goes off on concentrated feminist rants she pushes my wife away and it's a source of great sadness. It's a hard thing. I wish she could see that the fears she has about men being emotionally oppressive are often things she projects on those she loves. She's almost become the thing she fears the most, and it breaks my heart.ReplyCancel
Anon–"She's almost become the thing she fears the most." Yes! And this of course isn't limited to feminism. I think it's easy to become narrow sighted for a cause when the cause because the only thing you see. And I think the word 'fear' plays a huge role as well. When we are reactionary out of fear, things just seem to go wrong. Taking a stand for something because it's the right thing to do vs doing it out of fear, seems to create a more internal balance, that will then emanate outword as well. Does that make sense? Anyway, thanks for sharing.
Kiki–I think the same thing can perhaps apply here. Maybe your sister is so AFRAID of religion being push on on her, feeling oppressed, etc. that her response is also pushing back, emotional oppression, etc. It's so hard not to overcorrect.
ReplyCancel
I have been following this a lot myself. I think there is a need for feminism, even in the Modern Western world. I think the word Feminist will always be a trigger word and evoke strong emotions on either side. If people (women included) think things are equal now and that a change is not needed or immanent then to me that is proof of the problem. I am made aware of disparities daily. Do I label myself a feminist? not really. I try not to label myself or prescribe to one way of anything. A humanist? Maybe. Egalitarian? Perhaps. I think #yesallwoman was important and it impacted me a. lot. It made me remember things i have experienced and blocked out, it made me aware of things that are not acceptable that I have grown and have learned to accept as normal. Those things are not ok and there needs to be education about that. I think we absolutely live in a society where there is a rape culture and where woman are still objectified. I think women always will be. I am not a man basher, I am very fortunate to have a wonderful supportive father who has pushed me my whole life to have a voice and a wonderful supportive husband who only sees me as an equal. I also have a daughter who I want to raise to be strong and to not have to worry when she is running alone or biking alone that any man she sees may be a predator. I have a son who at 3 1/2 I remind daily that women and men are different but equal and deserve respect as workers, athletes, friends, competitors- everything. It is a hard fight, but a fight i take on proudly because I think the best way to be a feminist is to lead by example and teach the next generations that anything is possible for anyone. Not to be angry, but to be strong. To say no with confidence and not apologetically when you disagree with a man, to not say sorry instead of excuse me, to not be meek, to go after what you want, to wear whatever you want to wear that makes you feel beautiful, to laugh out loud. So many things. Sorry A. This turned out to be a lot longer than a intended. 🙂 I just have so many thoughts on it!!! ReplyCancel
Ylrac–I total;y agree with you. There IS a need for feminism in the sense that you've described.
I too remember #yesallwomen as eye opening for me to realize the ways I've been impacted by experiences that are not OK, yet have come to be seen as normal and acceptable. Probably the biggest thing for me is just the idea that I can't go out running at night (or even being anywhere at night, alone) without always feeling vulnerable. I carry pepper spray and have learned that's just what I have to do as a woman…and that is crazy. And it may seem impossible to achieve, but it's not. Proof: When B and I went to the Cook Islands a couple summers ago one of the things I was most surprised about was how safe it was there. When we asked the managers about keys to lock the bikes up, they just laughed and say–no one will take them. And no one did. Even the scooter we rented–we drove that baby all over the island and when we'd park we just left the keys in the inanition as is customary and never a problem. An English ex-pat living there told us that it's very safe and occasionally there is a petty crime, but even women can walk along the beach at night alone and have no problems whatsoever. Having lived in Hawaii, I know it's not "an Island thing" as that is not something you can do there. But I really thought that was amazing. Anyway, I love your thoughts and am glad that so much good has come from "feminism" but does it have to be the label of "feminism" to achieve these goals? (Just playing devil's advocate here). Personally I think I could accomplish more good for men and woman as a Christian. Not necessarily in the confines of Mormon cultural norms necessarily, but as a true disciple of Christ. I say this in part because I have strong doubts about anyone in the Cook Islands calling themselves feminists, but over and over again we heard about the many denominations of Christianity on the Island. Thoughts? ReplyCancel
I agree completely. I cringe at the word feminist. When I hear someone say out loud that they are a feminist it does irk me a little. Even if my actions and thoughts are in line with being a feminist I think the label is misleading an carries negative connotations for men and women. As i was riding my bike home from work tonight I was thinking about your experience at Cook Island and although I have never been there I have been to other countries that were less frightening- for lack of a better word- than here, a possible reason for the ease of places like this struck me very hard. We as a nation demonize sex so badly and make it such a closed, taboo, dirty subject that our natural thoughts, urges and questions regarding sex are made to be shameful. We do not have a laissez-faire approach to sexual anything and that creates a terrible sexual energy. Look at children, any time they are deprived of something, they crave it more. Their curiosity is spiked and they can become sneaky in a way to get it. I think this is part of the problem. If we were more open about sex and taught sex as a normal healthy thing then I think our society would be a little different. I'm not saying through sexual morals out the window, just don't shame it. ALSO, I think that we are such a young nation that is mixed with so many different cultures from all around the world that we do not have strong ties, respect and appreciation for the culture of our land. It is great that we are mixed but some small villages around the world have such rich history that women are seen as powerful for ages. Even Native Americans. Ancient Egypt. Woman are respected and admired. Yes, there are villages too where women are spit on an forced to have genital mutilation, but that is a different story all together. I digress. Back to your question – Do we need the word feminism to achieve these goal? No, we don't. I don't know what we need, but I know one single word is not the answer. I love what you said about being a Christian. I think that by being true disciples of Christ, stripping the gospel to it's purest form, forgetting all philosophies of men would change more than just gender inequity. ReplyCancel
*stands on soapbox*
You know I have many strong feelings about feminism, so here's my take. Like you said before, we wouldn't have voting rights, property rights, or even be in the workforce at all if it wasn't for feminism. Feminism is truly defined as believing in equal rights for women. Equal pay, proper laws and punishments for assault, abuse, etc. We still do not have these things today, so yes we still need feminism. There are very radical off-shoots to feminism, as there are in any organization/religion/ideology. But in regards to true feminism, we don't have to pull men down to make women equal—we need to raise women up. There needs to stop being a zero-sum mentality. We need male feminists, female feminists and we need to do it with love and support, not vitriol, division and dissolution.
An NFL player gets suspended for 6 games for smoking weed, but another one only gets suspended for two for being caught on tape completely knocking out his fiancee and dragging her out of a casino by her hair. Women are still not valued or treated the way they should be by society (as a whole). Not to mention things that are happening in other countries that are one thousand times worse than what happens here. These women still need our voices and for the world to value them, their education, their bodies and their lives. We need feminism for that.
I think the term "Humanism" assumes that it is an equal playing field—which it clearly is not. There are always a few circumstances that are exceptions to the rule, but on a whole, there is no way you can look at the world objectively and think that women are on an equal playing field. And just because one woman hasn't experienced some of the more oppressive things the happen to most of the women of the world, doesn't meant that it doesn't exist for the rest of the world and it should not absolve her conscience from worrying about her sisters—or to put it more broadly—other humans. And to say that other women are playing "victim" is so dismissive and maddening that I will leave that for an entirely different soapbox.
It's extremely unfortunate that feminism has such negative connotations that it pushes people away. We need to all work together to help the female cause—for the benefit of the entire human race. There are countless studies and reports on how societies who have higher regard for female life, education and advancement are higher functioning societies—which includes a better economy, higher life expectancy and a more peaceful community.
If anyone doubts this, please read Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn
I have so many more thoughts, but I'll leave it at this. ReplyCancel
Care–See, i love this comment. And so many others that are fully in support of feminism in, what I would call, it's purest form.
And you're right–the reason we don't call it humanism is that there isn't an equal playing field. That makes a lot of sense and I get that now. The world has been so grossly off-balance for so long that the need for FEMINism is a way to create that balance, stabilize it. I too like your point of "just because one woman hasn't experiences some of the more oppressive things that happen to most of the women in the world, doesn't mean that it doesn't exist…" We DO need to lift women up. I like what Oprah said, "When you educate a woman, you educate a generation." I would never want to be considered as someone who doesn't want these things for women around the world. I Do! Holy crap I do… I have three daughters. I can't even imagine the horrors of being a woman in some parts of the world (let alone a disabled woman). And I didn't know that about the NFL players–ridiculous. I really agree on about all of that. Especially "We need to all work together to help the female cause–for the benefit of the entire human race." All great points–thanks for taking the time to comment.
My only concern–and this applies to many ideologies–is when an idea gets taken too far, overcorrects if you will and new errors in thinking/judgement/action replace the old errors. I know that most people don't believe in radical feminism or many believe it doesn't even exist, but I guess that's one thing that struck me about many of these comments was that so many expressed feeling bullied, looked down on for their choices, etc. But again, that's something that happens in many nobel endeavors.
I do believe in equality in a marriage but I think by promoting the push to be pushy, we have made men weaker as spouses. We have convinced them we can do it all and a lot of them (my husband included) have decided to let us do just that. We have eliminated the men's duty to be a caregiver in physical, spiritual and emotional aspects of the marriage. After 35 years of being the caretaker of the house and marriage, I would like to be "taken care of" for a few years!ReplyCancel
Promoting the push to be pushy is not equal. Pushy is never equal. Even in an equal marriage you can still feel protected physically, emotionally and spiritually by your spouse. You can come to each other when you need/want to be held, to cry, to laugh to ask for help, to learn and love the Lord and God as a unit and individually. Help and love is always there, you just need to ask for it. I want to take care of my family and myself but I also know that to make it work they have to take care of me. Having feminist views doesn't make you not vulnerable to emotions and wanting sensitivity. ReplyCancel
I always have been hesitant to define myself/associate myself with any label. I feel boxed in-like there is no room for new ideas or progression, or room for dissent or differing ideas once the association has been made.
Concerning feminism, although I obviously agree with many of the defining values, I feel that the movement overall has damaged families and men. I have seen a lot of good and change that has come from the movement, but as with most groups it seems that they have gone too far and lost sight of some of their original intentions. I still support women who define themselves as feminists, and am grateful for groups that push for change and awareness, but the moniker is not for me.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the issue-it is something that needs to be discussed more!ReplyCancel
I'm not sure how I feel about feminism as a label, or calling myself a feminist. I'm like you, I can see a lot of sides to the issue and on any given day I'll side more with one than the other. I think mostly I'm smack dab in the middle. I do believe that feminism as a movement when it started was entirely necessary and brought about important policy changes and changes to the cultural norm that I'm very grateful for. I do believe that there are still improvements to be made in terms of making women and men equal, but I also think that the search for equality for both genders goes both ways. For example:clothing choice. Women, especially young girls often dress in clothes that are more traditional for men (pants, jeans, basketball shorts,etc which were all once considered inappropriate attire for women) and no one thinks anything of it in my experience. However if a man or young boy wishes to wear a dress, he will often be teased and bullied because he likes to wear "girly" clothes. That's just an example where men are also oppressed in different ways than women. If we were truly equal we could wear whatever clothes we wanted. That's why I say I'm not a feminist because I think it focuses too much attention on bringing women equality but ignores the challenges that men face. But I am definitely a humanist and an advocate for respect for both genders.ReplyCancel
I am a feminist, I'm not ashamed to say it out loud.
I wish I could write an articulate comment, but my English is too poor, so I subscrive everything carolinesbakeshop wrote, that explains what I think better than I could do. The fact that "women aren't on an equal playing field" is pivotal.
Some of the stataments of that Tumblr you quoted make sense, but none of them is a reason to be against feminism. I think that they are missing the point. The aim of feminism isn't to oppress men and to give women superiority (!) nor to deny men face changelles (everyone does) but to fight discrimination, oppression and violence against women. I've never been affected by sexism, but millions of women suffer everyday because of it. Feminism and humanism aren't opposites, you can't be a feminist without be also an humanist. Feminism is humanism that highlight that women are human too. If this last notion seems so obvious nowadays in the western world (so that those women on tumblr can say that they don't need feminism) is because of feminism. Even when women will conquer equality in the whole world (sadly I know that I won't see that day…) I will still be a feminist as I will never stop to be an humanist.
The "not all men" argument is misleading. Obviously not all men are misogynists, but it’s not fair to silence who point out the misoginy that exists in the world (it’s real!) in order to not offend them. Making a comparison with a matter that I suppose near to your heart, it is like if I, as a person with an able body, took offence at the claims of people with disability that fight for their rights because “I don’t discriminate them”, as they didn’t face discrimination at all! It would be childish on my part. I believe that a better reaction would be to check my own ableism (sometimes we are so accostumed to our own prejudices that we don’t see them) and then to try my best to be an ally for them.
Please Miggy don't throw over feminism just because the word is misunderstood, as you (and I) don't resign the label "Christian" despite the prejudices and misunderstandings attached to it (partly thanks to those Christians that have done and are doing very un-christian acts, even in the name of Christ).
Sorry for my poor English (I hope that is understandable) and the lenght of my comment, I don’t intend to be mean, it’s just a matter I am really fond of. 😛
Liseli–
Thank you for your comment–and rest assured I am definitely NOT jumping ship on feminism. Yes the word IS misunderstood, but also misused just–as you pointed out–Christianity is.
See….I really feel like this conversation was good for me because there were some points I had not thought all the way through. Especially when made with the comparison to Christianity.
First of all, in many ways we could not be more different although we are of a generation. You are a Mormon wife and mother who works at home in the Midwest. I am a professional single woman (who works with kids with disabilities of Lamp's age) in the PNW who lacks a religious label but feels comfortable letting people do their thing. And I love reading your blog because you are awesome–you examine life, and don't shrink from either the happy or the hard stuff. Well done, you. The women in my mom's family have been outspoken feminists as far back as I'm aware, which is my great grandmother, who was a doctor and primary breadwinner as a wife and mother, part of the first class of women physicians to graduate from the University of Chicago. The women in my dad's family have been underspoken feminists back to the greats, too, whether or not they were aware of the label. I feel like I'm still becoming aware of the ways in which feminism is still so necessary. There's still a wage gap. As a single woman in my 30s I'm pitied and looked down upon whilst my single male friends are accepted as status quo. I don't work in a male-dominated field but I have friends who do and it's still difficult. I think the expectations of women are what needs to change. Just because I'm showing emotion or taking charge doesn't make me histrionic or nagging–it makes me a humanistic leader. Our culture is in desperate need of an overhaul in the area of maternity leave, something that never really got figured out in the hectic race to allow women into the workforce outside the home. Again, I feel like I'm at the beginning here…but I will always, always call myself a feminist. ReplyCancel
You should listen to this. Really. 🙂
http://feministmormonhousewivespodcast.org/archive-episode-21-feminism-wants-what-you-want/ReplyCancel
I'm a feminist. And I have no qualms about saying that.
I believe that a woman deserves to chose what is right for her. I don't care WHAT a woman does, just that she feels it's the right decision for HER. I hold stay at home moms in the same regard as women who work. I believe if a woman wants to have 6 kids or no kids, that's her call. If a woman wants to be a butcher, a baker, a candlestick maker, it's up to HER. Because she gets to make those decisions. That's what my feminism is about. I'm a feminist because I don't want my male children to feel like they can't cry, and I don't want my female children to feel like they can't become engineers. I believe that feminism helps men, because I don't think men should have to ascribe to any specific stereotype because of their genitals just like women shouldn't. I don't think men are incompetent parents and I hate when tv and films make it seem that way.
On the anti feminism page, people would post "I love men, I don't hate them" (Cool me too) or "I love being a SAHM" (Awesome, you made a choice you are comfortable with and to me, THAT IS FEMINISM!) "Guys can compliment me nicely" (Yeah, my boyfriend and guys I KNOW definitely do that, but the guy who whistles at me and grabs his crotch on the street isn't complimenting me…he's harassing me) Someone else posted "because men should not be considered more disposable than women" (I agree. no human being should ever be considered disposable, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability status, etc..) I'm just a little perplexed at what's happening over there…
One post suggested that all feminists were bitter and ugly people. (But if they're saying not all men are rapists-which, duh-, shouldn't the logical step also be that not all feminist are bitter and ugly people?) I'm not a bitter and ugly person. I take umbrage at that. I'm actually a joyful, happy, vivacious human being who genuinely loves people and believes the best of them. I work my butt off to help others because I believe it's the right thing to do. Why would wanting equality and safety for women make me ugly? I don't get it. They call feminists out for "name calling" and then say I'm ugly because I'm a feminist? That doesn't make sense…
This post made a lot of good points: http://jezebel.com/5992479/if-i-admit-that-hating-men-is-a-thing-will-you-stop-turning-it-into-a-self-fulfilling-prophecyReplyCancel
Hi! What a great conversation! So many excellent things have been said so I won't add too much. I am a Feminist and proud of it. Humanist is also a great term and I embrace that as well…of course, we are working for everyone to be equal.
For starters, the argument about our female problems not being as great as those in the middle east is…well, I can't find a word for it. Who says being an American feminist means you're only fighting for women within the boundaries of the US? And just because your problems are smaller than your neighbor does that mean you say, "Oh, gee, I have nothing to complain about as compared to them so I"ll not work hard to make my situation any better." That argument is just silly!
I'd be interested to know how feminism hurts boys. I have no experience with that.
At the end of the day calling someone "a girl" is an insult. When that changes, maybe we can call ourselves humanists;) Great post, great discussion! I wish we could have it at a table together!
Last week sometime B discovered a low lying nest with 3 beautiful blue speckled eggs. I don’t think I had ever seen a nest so close up before. A few days later B brought me out to look at the nest. Lo and behold, the still small eggs were replaced with 3 chirping birdies, so...
Thank you so much for the rescue and the pictures! marsha@tubbslanefarm.comReplyCancel
Adopting Agency: We are registered and legitimate adoption agency. we spring up young babies for adoptions, we are online 24hrs all day or night to help single mothers and parent to adopt new babies, both white or African babies,girls or boys twin this child adoption ranges from a week old babies to 8years. try our corporations today and you will have us as the best adoption agency world wide. adopt babies from us today and feel the bitterness of having much more kids from us.; Warms regards; email us for a baby adoption today at: SHERRYCHILDADOPTION@HOTMAIL.COM ReplyCancel
Ha! I have one. My sister, she cries at Kleenex commercials, so when she saw four motherless baby ducks she was hooked. She brought them home to live in her garage which quickly moved to the kitchen and then to her bedroom. Well….that turned into her running her bathtub full of water because they needed to swim. This was all in the name of "nursing" them back to health. Her husband finally put his foot down and so now they live in a nice little pond with all the other duckies. 🙂ReplyCancel
Not the only one. I work as a property appraiser for our county. Last spring I had just returned to work from maternity leave and found myself out on a recreation property with a cute little cabin on it. It was clear it wasn't used regularly and I noticed a pile of leaves, sticks, and moss up on a high window ledge. I couldn't see if it was a nest, but I could hold my camera up above it and blindly shoot. When I reviewed the photo on the screen, it showed three little tiny baby birds a lot like yours. I was in love. They reminded me of my two kids, especially the baby whom I'd taken to thinking of as my little bird. I printed the photo out at work and taped it to my wall, where it still hangs today. ReplyCancel
Hi, my name is Katie and I live in Pittsburgh with my husband Josh and our 11 month old daughter Lily! Lily has a rare genetic disorder called Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome. She was diagnosed shortly after birth after being admitted to the hospital for severe jaundice, lethargy, and refusing to eat. Today, she is thriving! She...
May I offer a couple of suggestions for you to relay to Katie?
1). Contact 'Little People of America' about adaptations for a baby whose body is smaller than her developmental age.
2). Have a bunch of business cards printed up with the name of Lily's diagnosis on it, along with a brief description of it, and the suggestion that the recipient use Google if they want more detailed information. Hand these out to the curious on occasions whenever you don't feel like repeating the FAQ on Lily's condition.
It may not be appropriate for all situations, but it might help in getting in and out of Target in a reasonable length of time. (You might do the same for Lamp: That may help fend off overly-handsy strangers who keep demanding to know "what's wrong with her".)ReplyCancel
Astrin–Thanks for the suggestions. Hopefully Katie will see this comment herself. If not, I'll be sure to relay.
I too have thought about making those cards… I have mixed feelings, but can see that it would be helpful in a lot of situations. Figuring out what to say on them is part of the reason I haven't done it. I feel like my cards would be for kids who can't seem to leave her alone at the park and their parents are no where to be seen…so they can take the card to their mom/dad/guardian explaining Lamp and asking for their assistance in helping their child understand. Anyway, like I said I have mixed feelings (I don't want the cards to be offensive or cause parents to keep their children away from Lamp) but there have been a handful of times I wish I had such cards. ReplyCancel
Maybe you could just put something like, "My daughter has microgastria and limb reduction complex. You can find out more about it on the internet. But right now, we'd really appreciate it if you could please treat us like any other mother and daughter. Thank you."
It may be that a gentle reminder of their normal manners will be all most people require. I think the novelty of seeing a child who's "different" draws people's attention and discombobulates their usual social finesse. If it's brought to their attention tactfully, they may see for themselves that you've probably explained this ground ad nauseum to countless strangers, and aren't interested repeating yourself yet again.
Though you should be aware that your blog is the first Google result pulled up for "microgastria and limb reduction complex", so if you'd rather not have that, maybe you could just put "limb differences" and refer them to the 'Born Just Right' site. Also be advised that medical websites make MLRC seem pretty scary and talk about multiple organ involvement, which since it's not pertinent to Lamp's situation, may be another reason not to go there.ReplyCancel
I like the idea of the cards as an easy out of some situation but I hear the concern as well since it puts so much emphasis on one aspect of your child. What about a card that is like a mini bio? A bulleted list of things (favorite color, favorite food, loves to play X, is really good at Y, etc. in addition to medical info. Then, it puts the condition into perspective as part but not all of who your child is. These could be really useful for handing to new teachers, caregivers, etc. as well and seem less confrontational. After all, a business card is usually selling something so your kid should get to brag about how awesome she is in response to the curiosity of others.ReplyCancel
I love this post – and it gave me pause about how I talk about my daughter in front of her. She was a micropreemie, born at 25 weeks, and at nearly two is about the size of a 9 month old. People often come up to us because they are so startled to see someone so tiny walking and talking as well as she does, and I realized that I have been explaining some of her history to them – but why? If they ask her age, it's enough to just answer the question without adding "but….". I already am able to answer feeding tube questions without self-consciousness but I can't do that about her age/size. But the reminder that she can hear the words I'm using (and I know she understands more than I am aware of) is a good one to back up and let her existence be its own defense. ReplyCancel
I've just started saying "He's a sweet little guy" and smiling when people ask about my son and I don't have the time or desire to hash it out or just can't deal with it right then. Most people get the hint and are kind and agree with me.
Thanks for bringing up the topic of talking about your child's differences in front of them. I need to think about that more.ReplyCancel
She is adorable. Love that she is so happy. Good idea on the cards. Just a suggestion….add a place where they can send donations to for research. When you hand them out you could say something about this tells about my child. Since you are so interested maybe you would like to research it and help with ongoing research.ReplyCancel
Hey, I'm Amy!
I'm an author, artist, and disability advocate. I live with my handsome husband and three beautiful daughters in Cincinnati, Ohio.
categories
purchase when charley met emma
Let's be friends!
© 2025 This Little Miggy|ProPhoto Photography Theme|Designed by Hirschi Creative
This post really hits home with me. Just a few days ago, my husband and I took our kids out to dinner for my husband's birthday, and my younger son, who is on the autism spectrum, starting having a huge tantrum because he was hungry and his brother wouldn't let him have all of the red crayons the waitress brought to the table. A woman actually came over to us from a nearby table and said, I just want you to know that my family is leaving the restaurant because you are not disciplining your son for his behavior and it is upsetting me and my family. I stared at her in disbelief. It sounded from her tone like she expected me to say, no, please don't leave, we will go to another restaurant. Needless to say, I didn't say that and my husband just shrugged and gave a goofy smile. The woman and her family did leave a few minutes later, but as the waitress pointed out, they were finished eating anyway! I still have a bad taste in my mouth about the incident, though it certainly isn't the first time something like that has happened. I just wish I had prepared something to say calmly and politely in those situations instead of just staring with my mouth open.
what a dreadful woman.
Thank you so very much for featuring Tucker and me in your spotlight today, Miggy! I'm so very honored and love your words at the end about training our minds and emotions to be more empathetic. <3
And to Alessandra, I'm SO sorry that happened to you – how awful. I'm not sure what you could have said to such a jerky rude woman. Seriously who does she think she is?? 🙁 I'd have sat there open-mouthed as well, I'm sure.
Thankyou for sharing – what a DIVINE little boy and family. Have a soft spot in my heart for little boys xx
Little boys are AWESOME!!! Thank you so much!
Great interview Kristi! And I love the part about how you used to pretend not to see certain things. OH, I used to do that to, but not anymore. I am in their faces! ""Hello, how are you?" And at the grocery store I totally grill the special needs employees, because I want to evaluate their abilities and social skills to determine if there will be a spot for my son in ten years! And other moms – of yeah, I let them now I'm part of the sisterhood.
Thanks so very much, Allie!! The special needs employees are so awesome at our local grocery and I know what you mean about wondering about employment opportunities. Here's to the sisterhood, friend!!