A Daily Lesson in Parenting and Manners: A TR by a real life Wicked Stepmom!

[PoohBearFreak32]

Amen to that! Bring on more of the trip report!

 

[buzzmom3]

I am really loving our TR! Can't wait for more!

 

[Lisa P.]

I certainly can see where both sides are coming from and I refuse to make a comment on who's right or wrong... I'm here to read a trip report, I'm not here to read a debate...

Indeed!!!

You really call adults that you know "Miss" something? Even if they are Mrs.?

Funny, to someone who hasn't been raised with it, isn't it???

I grew up in the northeast and when we moved to the southeast, we did not understand this at all. It seemed very odd. But in fact, it is truly considered a sign of respect. Same-generation peers who are very close and familiar are likely to call one another by first name only. But adults speaking to an elder adult will often call her/him, "Miss Sandra" or "Mr. Sam" or "Ma'am" or "Sir" - marital status doesn't matter in this. "Mr. Smith" or "Mrs. Smith" is only used in formal or business situations (like with a teacher, professor, lawyer) and "Sandra/Sam" (first name only) is arrogant and presumptuous coming from a younger adult without a close relationship allowing for it. When an elder adult calls a teen or younger adult "Miss Sandra" or "Mr. Sam," it's a sign of acceptance of the younger person (whether they're 16 or 56) as part of the adult community. It's how most adults refer to other adults in the presence of children in social situations (homes, churches, stores, ballfields, etc.). At businesses run by "transplants" to the south, receptionists or health care personnel with out-of-area accents may use first name only and it's an easy giveaway of where they were raised - not here!!!

Regional manners and perceptions can vary a lot throughout North America. When I lived in CT (not far from NYC), I really thought I understood these differences. But the media misrepresents the south terribly. Truly, if you haven't lived all over the south and gained first-hand experience with an open mind, you've missed out. It's NICE to live where people still speak to one another, including strangers, with a smile and respect, in everyday conversations. Don't knock it.

Carry on, Miss Cammie!!!

 

[mama2girls]

OK, enough lurking for me. MissCammie you crack me up. I just love this TR. I cant get enough. I started reading your TR over the weekend and I am finally caught up. Anxiously awaiting more...
I see that you are going in Aug. When will you all be there? We are going in August too.This will be our first time going in August. We will be there the week of 8/14 through 8/21. Any advice you can give?

Too funny! We went Aug 14-21 last year! I have a piece of advice for you. Get Camelbaks!! Seriously, the inventor of those things deserves a medal! My babes were sipping on icy cold water in those oh so hot lines while everyone else was wilting. Have a blast! I dont get to go back "home" until August next year!! MissCammie should appreciate this...my ocd only comes out when travel is invoved and I have already started a list of Disney essentials that I need to pack when we go...IN 14 MONTHS!!!

 

[ElenitaB]

My trip report is unbearably long and I need to get it finished.

Now, that's just one woman's opinion! We love your report (and yes, you DO need to get it finished).

BTW, I don't know about anyone else but my inner Donald is quacking away tonight!

God love you, Miss Cammie!

 

[jennipooh]

Geeeeeeeeeeze, people are losing their minds and all control of their good senses. Trip report, fiction, perfect ....whatever! Why are we talking about the OP and not about the trip report? That fact, I think, is the "mean" or better stated, rude part.

CampbellScott, Miss Cammie, whatever you feel comfortable calling her most likely has feelings! Why are people disregarding them?

And those of us who have been enjoying her trip report are probably feeling a little uncomfortable and defensive about the fact that it has turned into something else. Something I personally did not tune in for. But, now, I am sure that I am just adding fuel to the flame.

Now let's all concede that her "trip report" is also a bit of a "family lifestyle report" or something -anyone notice the title of the thread?! Did someone just now read the title? "And here I was thinking this was a dang theme park review...I wasted all this time and she just won't stop talking about those dang kids. More Dumbo...less lovin'." Seriously, people, we are on page 100+something, and now people are up in arms about her step-parenting and the nerve of being loved by people she doesn't even know.

If people want to love her, let them love her. If people do not want to love her then they should not be around her - (umm, that means here) "If you can't say something nice..."

Furthermore, I personally do not recall saying anything about loving her, (but if people have said that, shouldn't that be their business? - BTW, I do love the tv show LOST, is that unhealthy, since I do not know it or any of its characters, personally? I think I may actually be IN LOVE with Jack. Oh man, I am soooo unhealthy.)

Anyway, as a mother, I have mentioned being able to appreciate someone (a stepmother) who would so obviously and unconditionally love my child. That would be nice. How could you not think that would be nice? And how do you not see that pouring out from between the lines. Perfect or not, love is nice.

As for mentioning their mother and her frustrations with her from time to time that is called venting and that is what we use our friends for and that is what some people use boards for. I guess that is also suddenly not okay. (she vents, not bashes, vents)

Also, I am a mom, a single mom, not a perfect mom, but a loving mom. No I do not parent exactly the way CampbellScott does. I do not parent exactly the same way as anyone else does. That is what makes me special to my son. If I were Teddy and Sally's stepmom, I probably would do a few things differently (not better, differently). But I am not, CampbellScott is and so unless I want people criticizing my parenting, I won't criticize other peoples.

MissCammie or CampbellScot or can we just call you Fred since that is less likely to offend people, I am a sensitive person and would be very upset if people were griping at me like this, but chin up........some people are just like that....sorry to say.

I hope to hear more about Teddy and Sally. I do enjoy these stories, they seem to come from a loving heart.

How boring the world would be if everyone were exatly like me.

 

[coteau_chick]

Geeeeeeeeeeze, people are losing their minds and all control of their good senses. Trip report, fiction, perfect ....whatever! Why are we talking about the OP and not about the trip report? That fact, I think, is the "mean" or better stated, rude part.

CampbellScott, Miss Cammie, whatever you feel comfortable calling her most likely has feelings! Why are people disregarding them?

And those of us who have been enjoying her trip report are probably feeling a little uncomfortable and defensive about the fact that it has turned into something else. Something I personally did not tune in for. But, now, I am sure that I am just adding fuel to the flame.

Now let's all concede that her "trip report" is also a bit of a "family lifestyle report" or something -anyone notice the title of the thread?! Did someone just now read the title? "And here I was thinking this was a dang theme park review...I wasted all this time and she just won't stop talking about those dang kids. More Dumbo...less lovin'." Seriously, people, we are on page 100+something, and now people are up in arms about her step-parenting and the nerve of being loved by people she doesn't even know.

If people want to love her, let them love her. If people do not want to love her then they should not be around her - (umm, that means here) "If you can't say something nice..."

Furthermore, I personally do not recall saying anything about loving her, (but if people have said that, shouldn't that be their business? - BTW, I do love the tv show LOST, is that unhealthy, since I do not know it or any of its characters, personally? I think I may actually be IN LOVE with Jack. Oh man, I am soooo unhealthy.)

Anyway, as a mother, I have mentioned being able to appreciate someone (a stepmother) who would so obviously and unconditionally love my child. That would be nice. How could you not think that would be nice? And how do you not see that pouring out from between the lines. Perfect or not, love is nice.

As for mentioning their mother and her frustrations with her from time to time that is called venting and that is what we use our friends for and that is what some people use boards for. I guess that is also suddenly not okay. (she vents, not bashes, vents)

Also, I am a mom, a single mom, not a perfect mom, but a loving mom. No I do not parent exactly the way CampbellScott does. I do not parent exactly the same way as anyone else does. That is what makes me special to my son. If I were Teddy and Sally's stepmom, I probably would do a few things differently (not better, differently). But I am not, CampbellScott is and so unless I want people criticizing my parenting, I won't criticize other peoples.

MissCammie or CampbellScot or can we just call you Fred since that is less likely to offend people, I am a sensitive person and would be very upset if people were griping at me like this, but chin up........some people are just like that....sorry to say.

I hope to hear more about Teddy and Sally. I do enjoy these stories, they seem to come from a loving heart.

How boring the world would be if everyone were exatly like me.

I agree.

 

[mama2girls]

Let me start by saying I'm NOT throwing my hat into the "ring" here and this certainly isn't any kind of personal attack on any of the posters to this thread.

For what it's worth, could we stick to commenting on the reporting of the trip itself and leave out the parenting/family/step-family critique?

I certainly can see where both sides are coming from and I refuse to make a comment on who's right or wrong as I don't have experience with having children and/or a step-family. I won't say I've never done so, even on this thread, because that would make me a hypocrite. However, as I've read this report, all the comments and had some personal experiences, I realized that:

a.) my judgement isn't fair as I don't know any of the parties personally and
b.) my stance on such subjects really has no place on a trip report board anyway and so I have since kept my opinions to myself.

I'm here to read a trip report, I'm not here to read a debate on whether or not CampbellScott is right or wrong in her (step)parenting style.

It just seems that as of late the people who disagree with her aren't here to read the trip report but just call her out. Perhaps PM's would be more appropriate? It's just that it gets distracting for those people who are here to read the report, enjoy the telling of a story and that's all.

::sigh::

I'm sure I'll be sorry I posted this and even became involved, but at this point I felt I wanted to share my two cents. I've tried to write it in a way that isn't offensive to anyone because I certainly don't mean to be. My apologies in advance to anyone who does feel I've insulted them.

None of us are perfect and I don't think anyone on here claims to be. Believe me, I'm sure there are things about me that people would want to tear to shreds. Not to mention that it would be foolish to think that we might not all be biased about different things in different ways.

Now back to your regularly scheduled programming...

I couldn't find a standing ovation smilie so this one will have to do
I completely agree! Im here to read MissCammie's report. If she wants to fill in the details of what is going on with her family, that is up to her. Nobody should call her out pubicly though. PM if you feel the need. I for one love this thread and wish her to continue. Anybody who doesn't like it, there ate literally thousands of other threads you can go to. Come on y'all! Let's just feel the pixie dust! this is a DISNEY site!!

 

[mama2girls]

You know...I hope all the bad vibes haven't run off our favorite TR writer... If I was her I know I would be feeling pretty hurt with all the bickering. Hey Cammie, we are still hanging in there with ya!!

 

[Crystal824]

Indeed!!!


Funny, to someone who hasn't been raised with it, isn't it???

I grew up in the northeast and when we moved to the southeast, we did not understand this at all. It seemed very odd. But in fact, it is truly considered a sign of respect. Same-generation peers who are very close and familiar are likely to call one another by first name only. But adults speaking to an elder adult will often call her/him, "Miss Sandra" or "Mr. Sam" or "Ma'am" or "Sir" - marital status doesn't matter in this. "Mr. Smith" or "Mrs. Smith" is only used in formal or business situations (like with a teacher, professor, lawyer) and "Sandra/Sam" (first name only) is arrogant and presumptuous coming from a younger adult without a close relationship allowing for it. When an elder adult calls a teen or younger adult "Miss Sandra" or "Mr. Sam," it's a sign of acceptance of the younger person (whether they're 16 or 56) as part of the adult community. It's how most adults refer to other adults in the presence of children in social situations (homes, churches, stores, ballfields, etc.). At businesses run by "transplants" to the south, receptionists or health care personnel with out-of-area accents may use first name only and it's an easy giveaway of where they were raised - not here!!!

Regional manners and perceptions can vary a lot throughout North America. When I lived in CT (not far from NYC), I really thought I understood these differences. But the media misrepresents the south terribly. Truly, if you haven't lived all over the south and gained first-hand experience with an open mind, you've missed out. It's NICE to live where people still speak to one another, including strangers, with a smile and respect, in everyday conversations. Don't knock it.QUOTE]

This is true. I am orginally from N.C., over the age of 8, and still refer to many of my mom's friends as Miss so and so... it's what we do....

 

[Shazzie B]

I love your trip report, can't wait for the next instalment.

The children will love AKL, becareful with Teddy on those balconies though! Also warn Sally she won't be able to feed the animals, the 'rule' is clearly displayed - bet she'll like that!

Hope you have a great time in August, might see you there!

 

[castmemberb4]

MissCammie I'm dying to know what kind of planning you're doing for your August trip. It's only 2 months away !!!!!!!!

Come on Come on, we're being patient
Seriously we ARE

Lynn

 

[arielchickenofthesea]

What a wonderful trip report! Can't wait for more! You really should get the chapters published in book form and then...write more books! You ARE a wonderful writer!!!!
arielchickenofthesea

 

[SlightlyGoofy]

I absolutely love this TR. Great writing but what keeps me coming back is reading between the lines and seeing what a fantastic life those kids have. I work with children who do not have such in their lives and it warms the cockles of my heart to see kids loved, treasured and raised right. The sense of humor of the OP is the defining factor for me. The parents who try to appear 'perfect' often are far from it but when you can feel comfortable joking around and saying silly things to each other that is an indication that it is a good relationship.

I am willing to bet that Miss Cammie would greatly enjoy being on the same page (or book) with the mom as it sure would make everyone;s life easier. The more love the better. As a single parent I would have loved having someone safe to take my kids for an occasional weekend.

If those who want to criticize others want to post how their life is going I will be willilng to read it and point out where they are going wrong. Always willing to help.

Slightly Goofy but not completely nuts YET

 

[xoprincessmomxo]

If those who want to criticize others want to post how their life is going I will be willilng to read it and point out where they are going wrong. Always willing to help.

LOL!

 

[arielchickenofthesea]

Slightly Goofy but not completely nuts YET

I have to say I AM already nuts as well as Goofy! If only....you could hear me say that! I am doing it in Goofy's voice! I can *do* Goofy very well!
But this is NOT a goofy report, it is a wonderful loving report with wonderful brushes of humor! All of that love shines through, it really does! What a testament to the love of family!
Waiting for more chapters Miss Cammie!
suzy

 

[redsox721]

I've been reading all the chapters also and loving them.

Like someone else posted, I can't see the picture of Miss Cammie.

Looking forward to the next chapter.

 

[PrincessOliviasMom]

Miss Cammie--

I just read all of these chapters in the last 2 days. I must say that I am not an overly emotional person but your TR had me in tears several times.

You have such a great, natural writing style. I love it.

You also have such a wonderful connection with your husband and the kids. They are so very lucky to have you. I truly hope all works out well with the custody arrangements ... the kids do not deserve to be in the middle of any of that ... they seem like wonderful kids!

 

[Northern Disney Girl]

The picture was apparently removed from the post. It was in the post on pg 110 but seems to have disappeared! I guess Miss Cammie wants to remain as something of an enigma!

 

[jennipooh]

If those who want to criticize others want to post how their life is going I will be willilng to read it and point out where they are going wrong. Always willing to help.

Count me in. I would love to do that, as well!