I don't remember being much of a dreamer as a child, or at least if I was, I don't remember. Even as a young adult I didn't have any really big dreams.... just the usual I guess. These last few years though... that has changed a bit.... Well, actually my life has come unraveled and knit back together many times... reviling passionate dreams I never saw coming. Dreams that have been stirring in my heart and changing my life.
This particular dream though... is a dream that our entire family has embraced. A dream that has brought us together in prayer, taught us patience and sacrifice. I've had moments of wondering if this dream would ever truly become a reality. Questioning if I was hearing God's plan clearly... is this really His will? In those still moments, when I've let the doubt and feelings of defeat fade away... I know, I feel, I believe God has an amazing plan for our family. A plan that has been slowly unfolding... and now... it's time for our family to take a leap of faith and share our dream with you.
We're taking our family on the road. We're-leaving-on-a-jet-plane. Sorry couldn't help myself. Really we're leaving in an RV... technically it's a semi pulling a 5th wheel and our van. I however think that qualifies as a "recreational vehicle"... right?! {grin}
And what are we going to do on the road? Learn, live, love, laugh, grow & meet lots of you. And hopefully many of you will be a part of this dream by allowing me to share my passion for photography with you.
That's right... I'll be offering photography sessions along our adventurous journey. And hopefully this will lead us to all the corners of our beautiful country.
Our first of (hopefully) many trips will be this July and August and will lead us through North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky & Tennessee... and possibly Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas & Nebraska
Are you interested in a photo session...
with me and most likely part of my family? {grin}
if so send me an email me at 4littlemenandgirlytwins @ gmail {dot} com
That's very brave... good luck and I hope it goes well, in fact, I know it'll go well
ReplyDeleteInteresting....this sounds just like the trip another blogger is on right now minus the semi. Actually, this is the second trip she has done wonder if you got the idea from her. Kudos for going on the road with the family.
ReplyDeleteI figured someone would bring that up... this has actually been a long time dream of ours... it just took us longer to achieve it.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great adventure! Think of all the neat geography lessons you'll be able to do and see :) I didn't see South Carolina on your list though :( Have a wonderful time and safe travels...I'll live vicariously through your trip so I hope you post a lot while on the road!
ReplyDeleteOh I know... the real life learning is going to be awesome! We'll be in South Carolina at some point... just not sure when yet. :)
ReplyDeleteYou guys never cease to amaze, hope your trip takes you through columbus!
ReplyDeleteah! This kills me! I always thought I would ask you to photograph our wedding - love your style and knew I'd prefer to pay you over any business! However... we actually got engaged this past January and decided to get married this past May, so with only 4 months we had to get A LOT done. We ended up going with someone local to quickly shoot our engagement shots... and go figure. I guess God had a different plan for me... but I LOVE that you are doing this and I'm so jealous I missed out!! I'm in Iowa, so I can't wait to see where you're going around here :)
ReplyDeleteAww, I live outside of Philly :( guess I won't see you this time. But if come to the east coast I would like to meet you, after reading your blog all these years I feel like you're a friend. OOhhh.....email me if you need and design help with the promotion, I'm a graphic designer, I will hook you up :)
ReplyDeleteMy two favorite blogs now sharing MY dream. That dosent seem right. ;) actually I'm stoked for you guys. I'm in Texas and would probably love a shoot. I've gotta figure put how to achieve this. My heart is already there. I just had a shoot on Sunday with Mckmama and was wondering how our family could do that and now you guys. I feel left behind...:( sniff. Have a marvelous adventure.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to read about your adventures and see the pictures along the way. : )
ReplyDeleteSomeday we'll be out there on the road also....I've always wanted to take a trip across the U.S. and end up in Vermont during the fall. Someday!
Have FUN!!
I am curious as to where everyone will ride? It isn't legal to ride in a fifth wheel in all states? WWW.rvadvice.com has the rules for all of the states. I know that Ohio and Tennesse are two that don't allow it.
ReplyDeleteOh, what fun! I'm in Kentucky (about 10 minutes across the river from Cincinnati), and I'd love to meet you! And I'll likely be sending you an email soon for information about your photography. :)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your new adventure! Enjoy every minute!
www.wyattzoo.blogspot.com
My husband and I always say that we would love to do that with the kids. It would be great to eventually get to each of the states. They would learn so much about their great country (as would I, I'm sure). What a great adventure! I am so excited for you!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI would love to see y'all when you get to Wisconsin. I live in a BEAUTIFUL city on the lake, I'm sure you could get some fabulous pictures. :) We will be in and out all summer (we are doing a bit of traveling too) but if you know a tentative schedule when you might be here I would love to meet up with you. :)
Oh girl!!! Is there room for us? I'd be in for a shoot! Also I happen to have a perfect, privately owned camp ground for you if you're in the area! There's even a turnaround for the semi...and a beautiful location for a shoot! Ok...have I convinced you to come to my house yet???
ReplyDeleteYep, you and MckMama. Guess that's what other readers were commenting on. I wish you many blessings on the road, but I'll miss hearing about the farm life, garden, house, etc. in ND!
ReplyDeleteIf you come through Ohio, I'm interested in where you'll be! I'm near Cincinnati :)
ReplyDeleteI am so happy for you :)
ReplyDeleteThis is awesome. When I was a little girl my dad drove semi truck and took us with him a couple times..I loved seeing all the new places went. I always said one day I would like to load up my family and do somethign like this too!
ReplyDeleteIf you are ever in Florida we must met up!
Sounds fun! There is another prominent blogger who did one leg and went home and now they are doing the country in an RV again. They are on their second trip! She is also doing photo shoots.
ReplyDeleteJust ironic I guess that both of you had money issues currently or in the past (raising money on your blog), and now are both doing the same type of trip to make money. Just interesting! More power to you, but I guess I would feel guilty the whole time after all that, and now living the dream that most would love to live but financially can't because they are responsible for bills they have. I feel the same way about the other blogger in regards to this. Of course, this is just MY opinion....
ReplyDeleteGood! You better come to SC!
ReplyDeleteha, lots of folks are commenting on the other blogger doing this type of trip for the second time, but it's nonetheless exciting for YOU!! can't wait to hear more about it!!
ReplyDeletewow, seriously? I don't think "most people" would want to do this, and I think it will be very economical. If you've ever traveled in an RV you know they aren't exactly 5 star resorts. She's just living her life, I doubt they think they're going to get rich doing this...
ReplyDeleteWill your husband be working on the road as well? I would never ask this question without a precedent, but since you've shared your financial struggles in the past (and recently) I can't help but be curious as to how this trip will be financed. No judgments, just a natural curiosity given the situation. I wish you all the best, and good luck on your journey.
ReplyDeleteI'm an adventure seeker, and I have always wanted to see the country! I hope you guys have the time of your life :)
ReplyDeletelove it!! and mckmama has NOTHING on you!
ReplyDeleteHere's how you do it: you make sure neither you or your husband have REAL jobs(you know the kind that pays your mortgage, keeps your lights on, provides insurance, and puts food on the table.....you know boring stuff that ADULTS do) then you pack up as much as you can cram in an "RV" and you take all your children on an adventure that includes fleecing unsuspecting half wits with more money than sense to pay you for a CD of substandard photos.
ReplyDeleteDream big!!
Well, since I'm a photographer....I don't think my husband would be on board with me paying someone else to do our family photos! ;)
ReplyDeleteBut if you are Northeast Texas, we would be happy to host you for dinner or have you worship with us on any particular Sunday that we are in town this summer!
Have fun....enjoy your dream!
Fun! You might be interested in another blog I read - a family who came in from a life on the road when their daughter underwent treatment for cancer. But they homeschooled along the way and loved it. http://www.smithellaneous.com/
ReplyDeleteAn RV is no 5 star resort, but it is a gas hog. Plus, if you want to park it in a campground (to have water or electricity to hook it up to), you are going to have to pay for that as well. Even a short RV trip can quickly add up to a lot of money!!
ReplyDeleteWhat is it wth all these "mommy bloggers" going on "adventurous journeys" and doing photoshoots on the road? Why can't y'all just get jobs? And pay your bills? And care for your litter of children that you shouldn't have had because you can't afford them anyway? Why is it that y'all think of yourselves as celebrities? And why...God, WHY...is everyone trying to emulate a lying, scamming, thieving, poor piece of white trash like Jennifer Mckinney? They have lost multiple houses to foreclosure, multiple vehicles to reposession, have outstanding IRS liens, businesses that have folded, and neither of them have a stinking job, yet THEY STILL PROCREATE?! They're nothing but modern day carpetbaggers selling their wares on the road hoping for a hot meal, a free ride to the local Target and someone to fix their cars and trailers when it breaks down. Everything about her revolves around money and who she can scam next! Notice how she never mentions church anymore? It's all a part of her facade! The Mckinney Family is a traveling homeless family living off everyone else because they're too darn lazy to get jobs and raise the family they keep popping out right and left. In my neck of the woods, we call those types filthy, poor hillbillies.
ReplyDeleteDon't you want more for your life than to emulate a woman who isn't worth emulating? Aim higher! For your children, at least!
Wow that seems a bit nasty. So easy to make harsh judgements when you do not walk in someone's shoes. Easy to say such things when you are not at the table when a couple discusses how they will manage, what they can do to enhance thier lives, pay thier bills, feed thier kids and think of creative ways to bring in income. Easy to write such words when you are not there wondering how they will make it work. My husband and I both lost our jobs over a year ago. I wish I had such a skill to make additional money. I was a well paid sales rep, no one hiring an over 40 woman these days. Now I watch children to supplement our income. My husband is trying to start a consulting business based on his skills. I bet people like you would judge us as well, not knowing the real story - the story not shared with a stranger. When you typed that did you feel better? Perhaps - odd how some people enjoy such nastiness.
ReplyDeleteThey're just all modern day carpetbaggers. They're either bagging for money on their blogs for people to fund their adoptions or their Compassion International trips or their latest brilliant idea, or they're waiting until they no longer have a pot to pee in or a window to throw it out of and just cram the kids, hop in some kind of bus-like get-up and put on their celebrity fauxtographer hats to see how many mothers suffering from low self esteem will pay them. Crazy, I tell ya. There was a time when you didn't have kids if you couldn't afford them and then when you did have them, you worked three jobs to care for them properly. And by properly, I mean paying the bills that house them, feed them, clothe them and school them. Times have changed for sure!
ReplyDeleteTraveling Circus of Mouths You Can't Feed. You should be ashamed of yourselves.
ReplyDeleteI am in MI, and can help out!
ReplyDeleteI take it you are banned from mycharmingkids blog? Thought you would hop on over here and take it out on Brittany? Need a moderator Brittany? I'd do it. Don't think you should waste your time reading and feeling upset over these kinds of comments. I have no idea how it works but I'm willing to learn! I think you guys are doing just fine. Keep it up. Make sure you teach those kiddos about name calling.(sarcasm) now I'm nervous last time I tried to defend you I got a spelling lesson. It's kudos. One D. I love to learn!
ReplyDeleteWhere is Virginia on your list?!?!?!
ReplyDeleteI am so excited for you and your family. What a wonderful opportunity for your children! They will learn so much from traveling the States. Going on the road has been my dream for the past year or so, and I hope we get there someday, too! I am really looking forward to hearing about your travels. If you're ever near Ann Arbor when you're in Michigan, I'd love to meet you all!
ReplyDeletenasty people have no place here
ReplyDeleteHow totally rude can this be? If this family chooses to go away for awhile and travel the United States then God bless them. One of my favorite times, as a child and adult, was traveling around the states. What a learning experience it was. I'm sure this family will learn and grow in many ways while being together as a family. God Bless you all...
ReplyDeleteWho are you to judge either of these women? You might not agree with their lifestyles or the choices they make, but that does not give you license to spew hate at them! Didn't your mother ever teach you if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all?!
ReplyDeleteShame on you.
ReplyDeleteI'm wondering why you read this and other blogs about people who seem to bother you so much. I hope you find joy somewhere.
ReplyDeleteGood God.....another "mooch off my readers" game.
ReplyDeleteHey listen, at least once this summer, how about handing Vance a bottle
of REAL shampoo and have him scrub that greasy head of hair he has???
"Cleanliness is next to Godliness" - the boy needs a bath!
I didn't say they were going to get rich, but I do believe if you are able to pay $200+ to fill up a semi to pull your "non-5 star hotel," you plan on making some good money. Also, my issue is she begged on her blog not only a year ago, and many gave that would never be able to take this kind of trip thou they would like to. Sorry, but nice to have perfect strangers bail you out and move you across country and then spend mega money to take a trip of a lifetime. I on the other hand am working to pay my bills, and put food on the table, etc and haven't begged a dime.
ReplyDeleteYou can bet that THEY are not financing this road excursion! It's more than likely off the backs of gramps & grams, same as their living situation is now!
ReplyDeleteWell, we have to keep in mind that Brit has repeatedly stated that she doesn't care if the kids don't go to college, so that'll save them a chunk. A chunk they don't have, which is more than likely why she's taking an "I don't care if they don't go to college" attitude, - they can't afford it and she knows it because they don't PLAN, save, in fact, have jobs to MAKE THEIR OWN WAY IN LIFE.
ReplyDeleteNovel concept, ain't it?
Thanks for saying what a lot of Brit's readers are saying behind her back where they often gather to chat about this dysfunctional blog & exchange emails. Nothing like contributing to the delinquency of our future with 6 more screwed-up kids who never got to live a normal life and have FRIENDS their own ages!
ReplyDeleteYou don't spit out kids in litters though either. And what you produce you PAY FOR on your own, without sponging off your readers and ole' gramps & gramma.
ReplyDeleteBrit has never learned that. Neither has her hubs which might explain why they're still hanging on by a string......they're both masterful at bleeding other people for money.
They live like vagabonds & gypsies.
Brit - since you can't afford basics like SHAMPOO for Vance, you need to think about how stinky that truck is going to smell by the time you get to the first rest-stop!
ReplyDeleteWow! There are some nasty comments on here...come on people. Just let them live their lives as God leads them!
ReplyDeleteHave fun and God bless!
Wow, what a range of comments! Let me first mention that my husband and I have no kids (and we are in our early 30s) and have what someone would call very successful careers. We are being all so responsible with our money, having no credit card debts, paid off cars, student loans, 15-year long mortgage, half-way paid. Pat us on the back. Life totally different from Brittany's family.But doesn't God have a plan for all of us? How boring would it be if it was all the same for everyone? Why all these nasty comments? If God gave them 6 amazing kids-- that's wonderful! If they prayed and decided that God leads them to be on the road and learn about the world-- that's wonderful too! Noone really made you donate money to them and if some people did out of just sheer love for them--what's wrong or contrary to God is there? What IS against God's teachings that's hate and judging others and sorry Penelope G and DucksLikeRain.. that's what you guys are doing here. If you made a different choice in your life, doesn't mean that's it's the right choice for others.
ReplyDelete"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another."
Happy for you! Isn't it wonderful God gives us all different gifts and different dreams? Have a wonderful time with your family on this adventure! :)
ReplyDeleteI don't mean to be rude but... how can you afford this? Gas si so expensive right now, food, etc etc all the preparations for this trip?? How many days are you staying in each city? State? I am glad for you. This does not sound very exciting to me, but I am very happy for you guys :)
ReplyDeleteGod Bless!
I just don't get it! I don't understand how you mommy bloggers who have asked people to give you money can now take your families on vacations and brag about it on here. It is honestely crazy to me. I like your blog for the recipes and originally started reading when people were asking for prayers when you were pregnant with the twins. But, I don't think I can read any longer. I kept you in my thoughts when you cried about no money but now you are copying an idea from another blogger and traveling the country when gas costs $4.00 a gallon. Absolutely nuts!
ReplyDeleteI have a sneaking suspicion this will be funded the same as day to day non nomadinf life for this family- welfare/food stamps/donations. If only reader knew the reality, far far less glamorous and much more deplorable. Come on folks us your noggins!
ReplyDeleteYour right, maybe most people wouldn't but when you beg for money not only a year ago, and now you can afford to put $4.00 a gallon gas in a semi, I don't see that as economical. I have seen some pretty nice RV's in my day that are close to 5 stars as you are going to get. My issue lies with begging money from strangers to pay your bills, and move you across country and then continue to paint a sob story and take donations. Then they are leaving on a vacation many only dream about, but can't because they have these things called bills they are responsible for paying. Yea, I would love to go cross country and have a good paying job with insurance, but also have a mortgage to pay, utilities, etc and you know since I made the bills I will be paying for them so I won't be going on a trip like this. What ever happended to personal responsibility...
ReplyDeleteAMEN!
ReplyDeleteOne thing has changed tho, Brit's readers have already been burned the LAST time she begged for money ...... they're smarter now and won't donate so generously like they did before. Most of us only care about Vance washing his GREASY HEAD, what, no money for shampoo, Brit???
They don't have jobs in their own home state......why would they work for a living while on the road?
ReplyDeleteVance, alert VANCE --- they have SHAMPOO IN SOUTH CAROLINA! Run, Vance, run!
ReplyDeleteThe bottom line is you did ask for money because you could not afford to pay bills. During this time you continued to be quite proud of the $30. shoes your 2 yr. olds were wearing and the $600. stroller. Is all this your business? Yes, but when you post a blog for all to see you kind of do ask for input from others. You and your husband chose to have 6 children, now YOU 2 are responsible for them. Not everyone else because you take "cute" pictures and know how to work people. I really don't know what your motives are or how pure they are. My opinion, and that's all it is is that you need to stop asking for money!!!! Did your husband ever consider getting a job? (just a thought!)
ReplyDeleteI find it odd that when someone has a rough patch - finacially - it is expected by some that they never move forward. It seems the expectation is that they should live the rest of thier days in gratitude and poverty, never enjoying a little breathing room. It seems that some believe that this family should stay where they are, not try and look for new ways to make an income and never ever spend any money on anything but bills and things that are needed to survive. So what should we do - those of us who have had a rough patch? What is the expectation? Because I also needed a bit of help after losing my home, should I stay in a one room shack and stop living? Am I judged because I want to take my daughter to the beach for a day trip, buy her a bathing suit and an ice cream? Am I judged that I want a new pair of jeans, not ones from a yard sale. Do I ever get to move beyond that "class" that you have put me in? Do I get to move forward and try to live a full life, even gaining back some of the material things I had lost? I have learned my lesson, I do not spend beyond my means. I used to, I do not any longer. Do I need to explain this each and every time I buy a dress on sale for my daughter or plan to hopefully take a real vacation this summer. When my friends and family helped us out they hoped this time in our life was a small blip on the screen and that I could move on to a good life. They gave us money, some with the expectation of repayment, some not. All celebrated each time we were able to regain the things that we had lost.
ReplyDeleteExactly, YOU don't get so why are you banging yourhead trying to figure it out? Maybe get back to whatever it is that you do to serve YOUR god, country, family.
ReplyDeleteDon't get it? Confused? Maybe banging your head against the wall will help.
ReplyDeleteHope it works for you Brittany! Wow, I can't even imagine a time without dreams...lol I have always been a dreamer, day-dreamer, plan-dreamer, everything dreamer....probably to a fault!! Love dreaming and I think Ally is one of "those" too!
ReplyDeleteThere it is, all the facts, obviously this is a major scam, she can't be real, it's all staged. How could someone ask for money to provide a sevice that adds some sort of value or satisfaction to a person's life???? I mean money is the holiest of holies, why would someone give it in exchange for some THING or feeling or CONNECTION (to the internet or something else maybe)??
ReplyDeleteI JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I believe the husband of 6 never stops working, it is the burden to end all burdens. the very blood, sweat, tears that threads all of us hard working, god and family loving people together.
ReplyDeleteI like this Rosy...it seems like we do that all too often...someone is in a rough spot and we think that means they are always going to be there. Seeing a lot of people don't know Brittany or her family personally, its easy to assume. And the fact that SHE is trying to do something she loves and make a little money from it...what is the problem then?
ReplyDeleteWhat's wrong with traveling and making money doing photo shoots? Just curious? Since when is it wrong to follow your dream?
ReplyDelete'not only a year ago' 'gas in a semi' 'strangers to pay bills'????
ReplyDeleteSeriously so preoccupied with keeping score that the fish is filling you whole bed and you're sleeping with it at night?
As for personal responsibility, I believe engaging in some sort of traveling trade to be responsible for one's persons' might qualify.
Just want to know one thing... what ever happendended to them schools in the back country?
You kick anyone you walk by that receives something for seemingly nothing?
Highly recommend the movie 'pay it forward' as home-school for ya tonight.
Just curious why people care so much about how others live their lives...I hope if any of you gave them money, that you gave out of the bottom of your hearts and in that case you should not be posting such critical comments...hmmmm
ReplyDeleteThis must be the new "I'm-a-mommy-blogger-wanna-to-be-a-photographer" trend.
ReplyDeleteIma-jest-a-guesn but may-bee yall shud bag-n-foot yer way right up yaan-der to my laast reee-ply.
ReplyDeleteMMmmmmm yeah, theeeses-ttiiiiiiiiiiiimemesssss theeyyyyeeeeeeeeeeee rrrrrrr aaaaa changgggggggggggginnnnnnnnnnnnnnn..............
Vance will have a blast LEARNING how to shampoo his hair for the first time in his life????
ReplyDeleteWe're not talking about buying a child and ice cream or a pair of jeans. The offensive thing is asking for "help" from strangers and then just a few months later finding the money to fund a "dream." It just feel yucky.
ReplyDeleteSo seriously, where is the gas money going to come from, if no one has a regular paying job? I am not asking to "get" Britney -- I say GO FOR IT!! -- but I am asking because I would love to do this too and if someone can let me in on how to make it work, I will hit the road tomorrow!! I too am a skilled photographer, but even if I were charging $300 per session (which is on the very, very high end) it would not come close to feeding my family and paying for gas.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck to you and yours, Britney!
Brit has never felt that she or her hubs are responsible for their finances.....it's been on the backs of her gullible bloggers and gramps & grams to foot the bill!
ReplyDeleteVANCE - get some SHAMPOO and USE IT!
What a great adventure for your family!!
ReplyDeleteA semi, 5th wheel, and a van!? I want to see pics of that. (:
Safe travels and looking forward to hearing about it.
Any plans to come to California at some point?
You mean it took you longer to BEG MONEY from your readers and gramps & grams for it.
ReplyDeleteAll I care about is that you get VANCE some SHAMPOO and he uses it! It'll take half a bottle at first, but persistence, it's all about persistence!
Of course people can move on. But this was very recently. And after taking all those donations, I never saw a follow up post about, say "how we've changed handling our finances" or "how we're saving up a large emergency fund so we never have to ask strangers for money on the internet".
ReplyDeleteSimply put, VERY recently they were having some serious financial troubles. And now, voila! They can afford to travel. I think that's the concern people are having. It might make people think "well, traveling by RV is more fun than paying for medical bills, maybe they could have worked harder at paying for the former?". Again, where are the talks about health insurance, paying off debt (if they have it), saving up an emergency fund.
That's my curiosity. Because it truly wasn't that long ago that there were many blog posts about serious financial burdens. Personally, I'd love to know what changed.
As I said in my comment below, I'm only asking because she has put this info out there in the past. It's natural to be curious. I'm just wondering "what has changed in your life, and in your spending, and what lessons did you learn? How have you bulked up an emergency fund, or saved more money, or cut expenses?" etc.
Of course, parents are never not "working" to take care of their children. However, vehicles don't run on "blood, sweat, and tears". They run on gas, which is approaching $4 a gallon. Surely you can understand the sensibility of simply asking my question, given the very recent past of several posts bemoaning financial woes. I'm not judging, I'm just asking. As I stated in my comment, I would never have asked had there not been a precedent of speaking openly about finances on this blog.
ReplyDeleteBumbleride gave her that stroller. They are awesome at working with blogs for PR. Brittany has such a large blog following, that it stands to reason when she blogs about necklaces, or outfits, or shoes - that most were given to her in exchange for that post.
ReplyDeleteProbably showing my age, but wonder if any of the rest of the commenters ever heard of hippies...all you need is love...da, da, da, da, da...all you need is love, love...love is all ya need...
ReplyDeleteWe should all just be thankful to be so incredibly blessed and fortunate to live in a country where we still have the freedom to live life as we feel called...to be able to give and take to make the world a happier place...the children will survive and maybe even thrive...because they are loved.
And we are all benefactors...of God's love and provision every day. There are no guarantees in life whether you have a job, are in debt or not, or think you have it all together. You could lose it all in moments...we have several friends who just did in the recent tornadoes.
So count your blessings, and bless those who chose to do it differently even if they need your help now and then...someday you might need their help in return, you just never know.
I think the problem is, as many have stated, is that she begged for donations to help them out of their own financial mess, and to move them across country and then a trip back to their former home. She flaunted her new $30 shoes for her girls around this time along with her stroller. Yea, I would love to take a trip like this as well but I am financially responsible for the debt I have. I would love to be able to just run away from it all or have strangers pay it off...wouldn't that just be great, but that isn't responsible or what I want to teach my kids. Say what you want but this isn't a cheap trip!! Also, as someone else stated, after the whole money begging thing there is no follow-up (or hardly any) stating what they have done to change, but boy she is quick to judge people who can't afford to eat organically, breastfeed, etc. Sorry, none of this sits well with me and makes it even harder for me to give on the internet because of stuff like this. If there is a legit need then that is one thing, but this seemed like it turned in to strangers paying for their debt so she can enjoy the good life....must be nice!
ReplyDeleteI think thier troubles happened over a year ago, if not longer. Well time, place, circumstances are no business of mine. Go, travel the globe, be good parents, take lovely photos and live your best life. Perhaps the road less traveled will bring them the emergency fund they desire and peace they need. Life can change on a dime and in an instant. I wish all of you happiness - why wouldI not? How you live your life in private is a mystery to me. What thier conversations are late at night, when the kids go to sleep is also a mystery. They have a shared goal - this may help them get there. I applaud thier commitment to making a change in thier lives, trying something new to help them help themselves. I simply find it sad that they are being beat up. I am surprised that some react that way to strangers. I can get angry at family when I know the whole story - but this. Seems petty.
ReplyDeleteOh, yes and just very recently, indeed, I've looked back in time (the internet has this amazing recording thing-a-ma-jig) and it was in fact, fall of 2009, nearly 2 years ago.
ReplyDeleteSo to old poor deleted penelope, (or as I like to think of her and all her 'wagoneers' "oh-poor-twisted-jealous-me"). How ya like them apples?
-in fact-
The "global" has been rebalanced and is in re-cov-er-y. Why would it be impossible for Paul and Br-it-ta-ny?
This is in response to comments regarding the period of time when Brittany & her family received financial help and people wondering what they did with the money, etc. I heard an interview on the radio about a year ago about the Tuohy family that the movie Blind Side is written about. They are very generous people and believe that we are supposed to give to those in need. The person interviewing them asked them what if I give someone money and they spend it on drugs, or what if I give to someone and they don't spend it wisely? Their answer was that God calls us to give. When we give, we are not to worry about what is done with the money or whatever we give. What that person does with it is between them & God. God will hold them responsible in the end. Hard to do sometimes, but I think they are right.
ReplyDeleteOh honey, I have seen the movie 'Pay It Forward'...might want to recommend that to "B" instead of me. I believe in paying for what you have and not begging money from others to do it. Sorry, that is what I call personal responsibility. You know you buy a house, you pay for it YOURSELF, you buy a car, you pay for it YOURSELF. Funny how this dream just mirrors anothers that is doing the exact same thing to make money Traveling trade...call it what you want! Nope, those that truly deserve it I don't have a problem with at all, but those that beg for others to bail them out and then turn around and say "follow our dream," yea not so much. You know because the bills I have, I am paying for myself but maybe you work differently and don't think that is the right way to take care of things.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I don't think you can argue (even thou you will) that gas for a semi will not be cheap, that she did beg strangers for money for her bills and it wasn't that long ago. Don't think there was anything to question there...
However, by the way you speak I guess she might have a new student for her homeschool.
ReplyDeletevehicles run on gas, but I think semi's run on McLove ?:-O
ReplyDeleteWow, Brittany, turns out there may be a Pho"Dog"rapher in our midst..... talk about staged, Penelope isn't even real (turns out I may be up for an honorary in internet BS detection! What.... Not a Major???.... Well it will be!!!)
ReplyDeletePenelope Gaines - Questionable Content Wiki
- 8:42pmPenelope Gaines is an employee of Coffee of Doom and former employee of a bookstore. She is suspected of having been the superhero Pizza Girl, ...questionablecontent.wikia.com/wiki/Penelope_Gaines
Urban Dictionary: Coffee of Doom
"Coffee of Doom: Bitchy Barista Babes Brandish a Bevy of Breathtaking Bean Blends." The place of employment and much scenery for the majority of th...www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?...Coffee%20of%20Doom"Coffee Of Doom" a webcomic by mark mcqueen
- 8:45pmFeb 28, 2011 ... Coffee Of Doom. a webcomic by mark mcqueen. Monday/Friday normally. Table of Contents · Read Reviews Write a Review ...
www.webcomicsnation.com/deviantyouth/cod/
Freelance Photographer in New York CityMark McQueen is a New York-based freelance photographer specializing in portraits—mostly executives and, well, dogs. If you're interested in either Pet ...www.markmcqueen.com/ - Cached - Similar
Pet Portraits, Dog photography in NYC
Mark McQueen, specializing in portraits of dogs, especially pugs, chihuahuas, bulldogs, basset hounds and other funny dogs. Studio, outdoor, and in the home ...www.phodography.com/ - Cached - Similar - Block all www.phodography.com results
These are the kind of people to watch out for, slamming families for some comic traffic to make a buck and protect the photography, hiding behind perceived anonymity or just using them for a laugh. Penelope's Twitter has just so much good to say about others and the world. Scum. Talk about real jobs, yeah just like I thought, beating on good honest people working to feed the world, behind a veil.... for money. who's the carpet-bagger?
ReplyDeleteNOT a scam, I know her.
ReplyDeleteI've read your blog for years, and never commented before. May you and your family make many wonderful memories. You deserve it! What a great home-schooling experience. If I lived anywhere close, I'd definitely hire you to do some family photos. But I live in New Zealand. Whenever you visit let me know ;o)
ReplyDeleteWhat the hell is your problem?? Of course the name that shows up on your birth certificate isn't "IWishSomeOneWouldLikeMeToo"!! So why would you expect that everyone one else use their legal name. You made some good points a while ago, but now you are getting ridiculous. Slamming another commenter for using a pseudo-name, when that is perfectly common practice (again, you are doing it yourself) is nonsense. If you don't agree with someone, that is fine, but you are being a child. Stop talking about anonymity as though it were a cover-up when we don't even know who you are. Anonymity, like many things, can be used for good or evil.
ReplyDeleteAs they have a choice ... so do all the people who may have donated money ... you have a choice, if you choose to 'donate' to someone it is your responsibility to be sure it is a cause that you want to donate to. I believe very strongly when you donate to someone it is out of kindness and there can NOT be strings attached. It is their choice how they handle it.
ReplyDeletePenelope is the legal name of many many people, I seriously doubt anyone is actually named IWishSomeoneWouldLikeMeTo. But maybe there is a real Penelope Gains somewhere that doesn't appreciate to correlation to this type of vulgarity.... Maybe it's someonethat McQueen actually knows and is also seeking to defile the name and life of.
ReplyDeleteThat's my problem, people 'hiding' behind perceived anonymity in order to sling mud at those they dispise.
You're right, please ridicule this and tell me I'm wrong, that Mark McQueen is really a great stand up guy, not harrasing good people for his own financial gain and/or pleasure - that his ring of follwers who hide behind closed sites and twitter accounts really don't have a vendetta against anything worthy.
Would the real Mark McQueen please stand up and respond? I doubt it. He has too much to lose.
Ponder this.... Why would Mr. McQueen need a closed twitter account with many many others blacklisted from it?
Don't forget sunny Florida! It really is a beautiful place to live, although I know you like to cold weather and snow. If you get to feeling adventurous, come south. :) Nothin' like some good old southern hospitality, toes in the sand, fishing and crabbing trips, etc. Have fun on your trip Brittany. God bless you and your beautiful family1
ReplyDeleteI would think that the nature of reading someone's blog is "caring about how others live their lives". She's chosen to have a public blog where she details her personal, family life. That included, in the past, sharing very openly when she had financial troubles. It's not strange that now, given the fact that she never talked about how things got *better*, or what they changed, we would be curious.
ReplyDeleteIf she's going to post about how they're going to be traveling by RV, going here and there, etc., it's natural that people are going to ask "how?". One cannot pick and choose when one wants attention and when one doesn't. I disagree with harassing bloggers or being rude, but I don't think asking an honest and logical question is anything she needs to be (or deserves to be) "protected" from. Without people reading- yes, without people caring "so much about how others live their lives" she wouldn't have sponsors or readers, and she wouldn't have had people to give her donations in the first place. I've never understood the attitude that prominent bloggers should get to pick and choose the attention they get. It simply doesn't work that way. You take the good with the bad, as is often the case with any measure of "fame".
Amy, I couldn't agree more! I hate gifts with strings attached...like you have to get a certain something with it, or do it by a certain time...To me, if people give like that, I would rather they didn't!! Those kinds of gifts are NOT gifts...
ReplyDeleteAlright, people...I wasn't going to participate in the discussion but I can't help myself now.
ReplyDeleteFirst, I would like to say that Brittany (and I, for that matter) did thank each and every one of you who emailed to offer help or sent a donation. And, I will remind everyone, that it was your choice to do so. No one came to your home, held a gun to your head and said, "stick 'em up!" You had a choice to either shut off your computer, or make a small donation that changed someones life.
If you donated to an organization that provided a mosquito net to a child in Africa would you be haunting the website to make sure that the family you helped stayed downtrodden and desolate? I don't think so! You'd be thrilled if you heard that the area got water filters, shoes and healthy food, progress begun by your mosquito net donation.
This is the same situation. Some of you chose to help a family in need, but instead of rejoicing that your help truly made a difference, you are disgusted that this family is out of the pit and moving on. May I say, gently, that this seems a bit hypocritical?
Secondly, I know for a fact that many, many of you have sung the praises of Brittany's photography talents over the years, and encouraged her to "do something" with her skills. Instead of letting jealousy rear it's ugly head, why not continue to cheer her on?
Thirdly, have any of you given any thought to the idea that perhaps Brittany's entrepreneurial spirit and natural talent will be a way for her to "afford" this trip? I don't believe you see her on here asking for help again, now do you? She's instead offering to share a long time dream and gift with anyone who cares to participate.
And really, if you feel offended by the resiliency and positive attitude of this lovely family, perhaps you have a little soul seeking of your own to do. I know that most of Brittany's "haters" are not capable of rational thought, but perhaps a few of you on the fringes will read this and it will change your mind.
I've known Brittany closely for many years and been privy to struggles and triumphs in her life and it breaks my heart to see so many selfish, judgmental people out there who have nothing better to do than criticize someone who is simply sharing her life.
Beautifully said. I have never commented on a blog before this one and this topic. So well stated. I wish them clear days and smooth driving.
ReplyDeleteWell said, I'm happy for them :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you for your offer to help and encourging words Courtney...
ReplyDeletespelling lesson, ha! ha!
I love hearing that you had such a wonderful experience traveling around the states as a child!
ReplyDeleteMaybe you can go back and read again... you have a lot wrong with your assumptions.
ReplyDeletebeautifully said... it's nice to know that some of you do get it. :)
ReplyDeleteit's not a few months later.
ReplyDeleteI am not sure where this "very recently" idea came from. We have been rebuilding our lives finacially over the last 2 years and through my husbands hard work we are able to do this. There is no dodging responsibility or unpaid bills. I understand that you say you are just curious... but i think your inaccurate assumptions are blinding you from seeing the truth I am sharing.
ReplyDeleteagain, i think you have exagerated the truth and added in a lot of assumptions.
ReplyDeletegot it again Rosy! grin
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your happiness! I just shared in a new post how we are able to take this trip.
ReplyDeleteagain with the recently.... you would have to look WAY back to find the last time I talking about finances
ReplyDeleteI hope you get to achieve your dream too! We'll be near Ann Arbor... email me and we can chat.
ReplyDeleteThank you! Picture coming soon. :)
ReplyDeleteCalifornia will hopefully come next winter.
So wonderful... what an awesome God we serve!
ReplyDeleteYes friend!!!! Let's talk!
ReplyDeleteAw, thank you. I know the feeling when you've read someones blog for so long you feel like you know them.
ReplyDeleteoh yes... when it's too cold here we'll come there. grin
ReplyDeleteThank you! I would LOVE to visit New Zealand... maybe one day!
ReplyDeletewow... thanks for all the info and research.
ReplyDeleteI just shared how we're able to do it on a new post... hope that helps you with ideas for your own plan.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sara! I have a few dreamers too.
ReplyDeleteemail me... it might work. :)
ReplyDeleteawesome, thanks for sharing
ReplyDeleteWe would love to Lorie! We will let you know when we're planning to be in Texas
ReplyDeleteme too! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThanks Sarah! We are SO excited!!
ReplyDeleteFor sure Shelly! Maybe next winter... when it's too cold here! Ha!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
ReplyDeleteWe'll be coming right through your way... send me an email and we can make plans
ReplyDeleteoh don't worry... the farm life, garden, house, ND won't be going anywhere and we'll be back soon enough to share
ReplyDeleteThanks! We're thrilled too! Send me an email so we can plan to meet up! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the link. We have a copy of all the state laws and thankfully North Dakota does allow riders in a 5th wheel and most states you pass through follow your home state laws.
ReplyDeleteoh yes, and we'll for sure meet up somewhere, someday! :)
ReplyDeleteaw, sorry to hear you're feeling left behind. Sometimes it feels like dreams will never come true... just keep trusting God. His timing is always the best!
ReplyDeleteyou're so sweet Stacey! Congratulations on your new Marriage. Keep in touch and maybe we'll get together when we come through Iowa.
ReplyDeletefor sure!!
ReplyDeleteWe will for sure... if not this trip them maybe the next! That would be awesome to get our girls together!!!!
ReplyDeletewe're not doing this just to make money and we are being responsible for our bills.
ReplyDeletei know... doesn't seem so crazy to me. obviously! :)
ReplyDeleteyou are very confused.
ReplyDeletenot the way we're doing it! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you Jenty!
ReplyDeleteI am absolutely shocked at the criticism that you have received! I have been following your blog for over a year now and do not remember seeing you ask for donations... and from what I've gathered, that was over two years ago.
ReplyDeleteI am going to ignore the nastiness, and just share this with you instead. Growing up, my family had many financial ups and downs. When I was 12, these ups and downs led to my parents purchasing a travel trailer (as we had been evicted from our home) and deciding to use my father's CA state parks discount (he is a disabled vet) to travel. It was cheaper than living in a motel, and their intentions were to find an area that was less expensive to live in. Times were EXTREMELY rough. They went through a few vehicles that broke down, and we were stranded in many different places for months at a time. I remember a lot of hardships from this time period, but I also remember some truly wonderful experiences. We met tons of people along the way, did some things we wouldn't have otherwise been able to, and learned a lot about each other. I saw places that I dream of taking my children to see now. At the time, I was not a happy camper (yes, pun intended). It was a rough time in my pre-teen (and into teenage) years. However, looking back, I wish that I had enjoyed it more. I treasure the memories that were made.
All of this to say, that I hope that you and your family have the time of your LIVES! It can be difficult to be around each other in such close quarters for such an extended amount of time, but the lessons that you will learn from each other will only add to the relationships between your family members. (A piece of advice, encourage everyone to get some time away from each other every once in awhile). I think that what you are doing is just wonderful and I can't wait to hear about it. This is a truly amazing gift that you are giving to your children.
I do not understand...I do not know Brittany at all, I have nothing to gain by writing here. I am constantly amazed...at the anger, the bitterness, the jealousy of people around us. My thought is that when people have those kinds of feelings, they are very unhappy in their own lives. How very sad for them.
ReplyDeleteI have had financial struggles, I have had marriage struggles, I have had family struggles and I have worked on each of those areas of my life. Should I not try to heal my marriage because someone might be offended by that? Should I not make better financial decisions because someone will always throw my past in my face? Should I not try to heal relationships with relatives because someone will judge me?
We are allowed to make mistakes and then learn from them and hopefully change our behaviors. I am thankful for the things that have happened in my past...all of those moments and opportunites to learn have helped me to become the woman that I am today.
We have a travel trailer and I have been telling my husband that I think it would be wonderful to simplify our lives, pack up the things that we need, grab our 11 year old
and find a way to live this very dream. I want to experience the beauty, the quiet, the adventure, the relationships, the moments of my life.
Life here on earth is so short...I hope that the people who find it so easy to judge, would try to enjoy their own lives and leave other people to live their lives.
If I have the chance to live my dream...I will also be taking my camera along. Happy travels to you and your family Brittany.
Id love to go thru and read the comments by everyone else, but WOW! lol a lot.
ReplyDeleteDont let people get to you Brittany... people are so rude and hurtful. You do what you feel is best for your family - pray about it and ultimately this is between you and Him. It has to be something you and your husband feel led to do, if you both have a peace abt it, go for it!! :-)
I'd bet that anyone who donated doesn't even have an issue with this. Anyone that cared enough to donate is happy for this new adventure.
ReplyDeletesince when is farming and photography not a job?
ReplyDeleteI'm very happy for you Brittany & am pleased you & your family can travel as you wish to.
ReplyDeleteI've read a number of the comments and while I am not at all 'annoyed' that you & your husband have gotten your life back on track financially..... I can see it might be very interesting to an awful lot of your followers if you wrote a post about how you did it.... how you turned it around.
I know you write often about your garden & it's produce.... goodness knows how envious I am about that one ;)
and about how you write about getting clothing from thrift stores etc... but it seems to me that you may just have an audience that could learn something from your own lessons learnt about frugality & mending your spending habits so life is much different to what it was {or seemed to be} during that crisis time ~ 2 years ago......
I've been reading your blog since long before you were pregnant with your girly twins..... I started because I too was 'heavy' with boys..... I've always loved to read your blog. Always.
I wish you well..... always.
Safe travels XX
Why in the world is it bad to copy an idea from someone else? If I had to always come up with totally original ideas all of the time, I'd be lost. Everything everyone does in life is probably copied from SOMEWHERE. I guess I just don't understand.
ReplyDeleteReally? I guess responsibililty is a subjective concept.
ReplyDeleteDid you write any posts about rebuilding your lives financially? I wold honestly love to read about how you have changed things to protect yourself against having to ask people for money on the internet. Are you now striving to live debt free/have a large emergency fund/etc. etc.
ReplyDeleteMy main confusion with all this is that there never seemed to be a follow up post regarding all of your financial woes. Certainly, anyone who gave money to you should have given freely, with no expectations.
At the same time, a part of your journey is what you learned from that experience. I know people who are raising several kids on one teacher's salary, living debt free, with an emergency fund for an entire year, etc. etc. That is what I think people are scratching their heads about, Brittany. How did things change? How are you and your husband working to protect your family in the future?
Can you understand that it seems strange that you go from asking for money and talking about financial woes, and then you don't really give any details after that, and then all of a sudden you are saying you guys are in a great place financially and have plenty of money and there is nothing to worry about? 2 years ago to me is a bit recent in light of that. That's the only reason I even asked. I've been reading your blog off and on since before the twins were born, and I rarely, rarely comment. But this just honestly had me confused. Again, if you wrote posts about lessons learned, what you've changed, etc., I'd love to read them.
Shelly- I wrote this to Brittany below, but I wanted to repeat it here, to you. First, I agree that anyone who gave money should have done so, no strings attached.
ReplyDeleteHowever, Brittany was very open about needing money, and for a long time she was open about how difficult things were financially, how hard it was, the struggles, etc. Then those money posts kind of dropped off. There was no "here is what we've changed so we don't have to ask strangers for money on the internet" post. Or "lessons learned from a bad financial time" post. Then all of a sudden, out of nowhere, they're going on this RV'ing trip. When people ask about the financial situation (because it hadn't been talked about since all that was being shared was how bad things were) Brittany gets a bit surprised and defensive, and assures everyone they're doing great, her husband has three jobs, 2 years ago is a long time inthe past, everything is fine, etc.
Can you not see how it's a bit of a 180 to go from being very frank about financial difficulty, asking for money, then clamming up and never talking about it again, and then announcing this trip and suddenly saying "oh yeah, things are GREAT!". We've all fallen on hard times. One cannot predict such things, and they can be devastating. I believe that Brittany and her family deserved, and were blessed with, the financial help that people gave them. At the same time, I'm honestly confused as to the silence on the issue of the "After" story, where we heard what lessons were learned, and what is being done differently. I can't speak for others, but that was truly where my questioning and curiosity came from. Unfortunately, I've known many people who go through a cycle of financial problems. When they're in it, they're desperate, family and friends help them, and then they get back on their feet. Then they forget about the difficulty, and don't take steps to protect themselves should they fall on hard times again (emergency funds, better health insurance, disability insurance, whatever the case may be).
Here's my final point, about your analogy- the difference is that a reputable non-profit reports back to their donors and lets them know how things are going. In fact, I would say that this whole mess is precisely BECAUSE Brittany did not share in her family's financial upswing. I think that people who donated to her would have loved to have heard the "After" story in greater detail, instead of being told in the comments of a post "oh, we're fine now, don't worry about it, 2 years ago is a long time". I think this is less about "sour grapes" and more about hurt feelings. Those people felt connected enough to her family to donate to a stranger on the internet. I honestly think they would have rejoiced in some regular updates on how things were getting better for her family.
How neat that your family is able to do this! What an adventure! I hope you all have a wonderful time of learning, exploring, and being together as a family. :-)
ReplyDeleteHonestly. Who wants to sit down and write up a blog post about how they messed up their lives, and now where they sit financially? Would you like to sit down at the end of every day and tell the whole world what you bought today and how it pertains to your current financial situations? NO.
ReplyDeleteObviously this blog post is a "follow-up" to their financial woes. This is Brittany saying "we're in a better financial situation" because they're able to afford to do this. They've worked hard, saved and done as much as they can so they can go on this trip. Anyone who's almost lost their home (or has lost their home) will tell you that you don't want others to know your situation. It's hard enough to come and write when you've had a rough day of bill collectors calling but to sit down and say "hey, we got ourselves into a situation we cannot get out of" is even harder. Who really wants to re-live that!
Obviously those of you criticizing her have NEVER been in a position where money was the slightest bit tight. Where you had to put something back at the store that you simply could not afford. You've never had to choose between new shoes for your children, or food on the table. Never had to choose food on the table or a roof over our heads. You've never had to work HARD to come back from a financial fall.
GROW UP! Honestly. We live in a world where you could be wearing name brand clothes and not have a bed to go home to. Why are we in this situation, because we think MATERIAL things matter. They don't. Family is what matters. Brittany did what she needed to do to be able to KEEP HER FAMILY together, and safe. You can't tell me you wouldn't do the same thing if you were in her shoes.
And for those of you who are strong MckMama lovers, did she ever sit down and write up a blog post on how THEY can afford such a trip? Nope didn't think so.
Yes! I hear exactly what you are saying. Thanks for sharing. :)
ReplyDelete________________________________
I am blown away at all the angry comments! So sorry! I am SO exited for you! Bill and I have started planning and talking about getting a pull behind camper to start exploring the us in a few years =)
ReplyDeleteAnd as far as the finances....a lot can happen in just a few years! I would know...we just hit $68,000 paid off in 3.5 years!! =) ENJOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I find it so interesting that everyone thinks you are copying another blogger. As if there is only ONE other blogger that has done this same thing, lol. Another blog I have read now for years, has also been going on trips like this FOR YEARS! So it's nothing new. And good for you for following your dreams! Someday I'd love to live in an RV for a year. It would be such an awesome adventure.
ReplyDeleteAnd as for that other blog I read, maybe you read it too? http://www.happyjanssens.com/ is where they are at now, but she used to blog at http://walkslowlylivewildly.com/
Anyway, they also do the veggie oil conversions on RVs, and are vegetarians. You MUST be copying them, hehe ;)
Enjoy your time, and maybe someday I'll meet you too.
Oh I know... Its a huge small world. :)
ReplyDelete________________________________