September 30, 2017

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  • Robby just had to whisper up the stairs this morning and down came Anderson and Graham. Whitman was laying beside me so I didn't have to go far to wake him up. He came down in the middle of the night asking for me to put his pajamas on him. When we got home late last night and he was already asleep, I just put a pull up on him with his clothes back on. I guess he didn't think that was proper sleep attire.
  • It took mere seconds for Anderson and Graham to put on their Razorback red. They were so excited to go to the ball game. Now, Whitman, not so much. He had already told me that he wanted to stay with me (he is a bit of a momma's boy) and also said that he didn't want to see a game. He probably only remembers sitting at hot, boring soccer games.
  • Robby and the boys left before 7 and before I could even get myself back in bed, Campbell was awake and in my room. She talked quite a bit to me and I finally was able to go back to sleep for about 5 minutes at a time.
  • By 8, all of the girls were awake. I did finally get up and start on the dishes and multiple loads of laundry. After we all ate breakfast, I started making some healthy soup for me to eat during the week for lunch. This took a bit and by the time I was dressed and ready, it was nearly 11.
  • I had the girls get ready and grab a bit to eat for lunch even though it was early. I decided to eat some of my soup. There were quite a few recipes in this cookbook that I wanted to try. I picked this one because I had some of the ingredients. It was a definite fail! It tasted way too healthy!
  • Then the girls and I headed to Micheals for a little kids class. We went when it was almost over so there wasn't anyone else there. We made cute little pom pom pumpkin garland and that helper was so nice to the girls and kept giving them ideas about other things to make. After everyone had made their garland, we bought one more item and then headed to Home Depot.
  • I had a return also at Home Depot but we bought some stain there and used that stop was a bathroom break. Next up was Hobby Lobby-we walked all over that store. Reagan had a few gift cards to spend and she spent almost all of them. Campbell, Keaton and I did our best to help her spend all of her money.
  • Then we stopped at Sonic and waited until Happy Hour before ordering drinks. We picked up Grannymom and Grandpa and went to Burns Park to watch Zach play soccer. The temperature was decent but the sun was just so hot!
  • We did our best to stay in the shade but to see we couldn't stay there too long. Keaton and Campbell finally got umbrellas out of the car to help with the sun. The game was interesting and Zach played great. They won 2-0.
  • Just as the game was over, Robby and the boys were back in town. They had driven to Fayetteville and ran into Robby's cousin. Then they ended up sitting in his box. I believe that my boys might be a bit spoiled after today-not only was there breakfast there but also there was unlimited drinks and cookies. Whitman had a blast and next time we go to a ballgame, he will be expecting cokes and cookies,
  • We sent Anderson and Graham on with Grannymom and Grandpa to eat with Les and his crew. We would have gone but were afraid that with 6 more, the wait would be just too crazy long. However, the boys acted like not too many folks were there at all though. We went the boys along so they could get a chance to see their cousins.
  • Robby, the girls, Whitman and I drove around town trying to find another Mexican place to go to. We finally did but weren't too impressed but it did kill hunger and we did get a dessert! Afterwards, we headed back to Grannymom's house to pick up the boys and pick up my car.
  • Then at home, Robby unloaded his car while I unloaded my car while the kids rotated through the showers. By 9, everyone was in bed and by 10, Anderson was down with a bloody nose. Graham came down with him and we sat on on the steps until his nose stopped gushing-they are both wired after such a great day.

September 29, 2017

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  • Whitman was in my bed this morning and before I realized it, he was playing a game on my phone. That little stinker, but I was so tired that I just laid there until I couldn't take the music on the game any longer and went ahead and got up.
  • Campbell moved her fort to her bed last night and Reagan was still in her fort this morning (and is tonight). I am not sure where Whitman slept but he didn't get up until 7 so I guess he slept well.
  • We had our breakfast-waffles and pancakes along with a few leftover muffins. Then it was time to start our work together. We flew through everything today and the kids also quickly did their school. It did help that most everyone didn't have to work with me. I still had to work with Graham to catch up from yesterday.
  • Reagan, Anderson and Graham all a writing book where they have to write rough draft and then correct it and write a final draft. This year, I have given Reagan the option to type her final draft. That way she can count it for her rough draft and for her typing (killing two birds with one stone). Graham got wind of this and wanted to do it too. Of course, I said that he could. Then, I offered the same deal to Anderson and he was like "no way!" Everyone is just so different!
  • Before lunch, we watched a history video. It was a bit dry but did correlate to our history book so we all watched it....until Keaton said it was "horrible." She was sent right on to bed after that-I almost forgot about her upstairs when I went to fix lunch a bit later. The video wasn't that bad (we have 2 more episodes to watch!)
  • The kids then worked on their chores for a bit and then had some downtime. Some went outside for a little bit. When I did my treadmill time today, Campbell climbed on the one beside me. She told me that she was going to stay on as long as I did and she sure did. When we got off the treadmills, Keaton and Graham got on. 
  • I sat upstairs cooling off for a long time but finally decided that I needed to get my shower. I told them they had two more minutes and Graham said that he wanted to get a mile in. So I sat back down and waited for him to get his mile (I don't feel like I can leave the kids along on the treadmills.)
  • Then, it was a quick shower for me and we loaded up and headed to the McGuires for supper. The kids were oddly calm tonight and spent quite a bit of time outside playing capture the flag. Amber had Mexican along with fried ice cream. Even though the kids were happily watching a movie, around 10 it was finally time for us to head home. The boys have a big day tomorrow and need their rest!

September 28, 2017

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  • It was pretty quiet around here except for the two big boys being awake this morning. I went to the girls room to wake them up and then hauled snoozing Whitman down the steps and threw him into our bed.
  • He rolled around for a little bit before finally waking up enough to put on his clothes. Since not many folks were up, we were running a bit behind. Today's breakfast menu says waffles and pancakes but Anderson's supper tonight was planned to be waffles so I opted to switch things around.
  • That meant that we had muffins and yogurt. Graham and Whitman were around to help me mix up some muffins. Since they had to bake, I pulled everyone into the school room and we started on our together work.
  • Robby and Whitman headed out and I stayed in the school room and just hollered bye to them. A bit later, Robby wrote saying that he had forgotten Robby's shoes and was running back home to get them. They didn't realize it until they were at school! I am thinking of keeping a pair or two of shoes in the car for emergencies.
  • The rest of us zoomed on through school. Anderson and Reagan started working on their stuff together-they would both do math and then both do Analytical Grammer and so on. This helped Anderson tremendously. He finished not just before lunch but well before lunch. I may try to get them to do that again tomorrow.
  • Graham had a difficult time today-his IEW had him write 3 paragraphs and then he is still doing his crazy long division. A bit later, Keaton had herself a big ole fit and Graham was nearby. I quickly took the opportunity to point out to him how she was acting and how he had acted just like her! I know that he was just frustrated but goodness gracious. After a bit, he pulled himself together and did finish strong.
  • Robby was able to pick Whitman up from school so we had lunch while I read a few stories to the kids. I currently have a pile at least a foot tall of picture books and chapter books that I want to read to them. Sometime I think about taking a day off of school to just sit around and read all day. Maybe we will on the next crazy rainy day.
  • After lunch, everyone went to work on chores. Our weekly chore charts are working our pretty good but today, I even added quite a few must do chores since this place was getting messy. It is never clean here but we are tidy at least. 
  • Most of the afternoon was spent building forts. It seemed that everyone had one in some area of the house-tonight, Campbell and Reagan are in two different forts in their room and Whitman  is in a fort in his room. I am guess that no fort sleeping will last at all.
  • Anderson helped make supper tonight. We had the traditional supper of waffles and spam! Ha! We didn't have any other meat and Spam was Anderson's choice. He worked hard and pretty much did most of it by himself except for the waffle cooking.
  • After supper, we loaded up and went to Dairy Queen for our weekly blizzards. Then we ran to Grannymom's house for a bit. Then it was back home for showers and then everyone had a few minutes to play on their ipads before bedtime. 

September 27, 2017-Happy Birthday Keaton!

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  • I started off the morning trying to figure out what we could stick a candle in this morning to start of Keaton's birthday. This is Wednesday, so usually the kids just pick out their own breakfast and by the time I could come up with something, the birthday girl was already asking me if she could get a poptart and trying to find a clean plate.
  • A poptart it was! We stuck a candle in it and all gathered around to sing Happy Birthday to Keaton. I was scrambling this morning a bit since I hadn't made lunch last night. I thought that I had an errand to run for Robby so we were in the car earlier than even usual. At the last minute, Robby decided to run the errand so I headed to Chickfila.
  • Every Wednesday this month, Chickfila has given away free breakfasts. We have never gone but today, I decided why not. Since everyone had already eaten, I just asked for 4 of the free breakfast. The sweet lady taking our order looked in the car and said she would order 5 since I had more than 4 in the car. 
  • We ate our breakfast (again) as I drove around the parking lot at Immanuel before we climbed out and headed into Bible study. The kids just love Bible study and because of that, I do too.
  • After it was over, we headed to the park for a bit. Robby showed up with a balloon and brownies (the ones that Reagan made yesterday). We sang again and soon Keaton was just standing by us and up, up her balloon went. It had come off of the string!
  • On the way home from the park, I was going to stop by the Dollar Srote and buy another but Robby had already bought one on his way home. Though house later, Graham just hit at the balloon innocently and it hit the edge of my dresser and popped! Keaton didn't handle this as well as she did at the park. Graham was upset and offered to give her a dollar. I told him to just buy her one next time we are at the Dollar Tree. I calmed her down and Graham only started to feel better after I hung the balloon over her desk. This made everyone happy!
  • The afternoon flew by and a bit after 4, we loaded up for supper. Robby used the first of his Chickfila free meals. We did get 5 tonight so our total is down to 47 more combo meals left. We probably could have gotten by with just 4 instead of 5. We will know that next time.
  • Next stop was church. Robby came with me tonight and helped me pass out popsicles to all of the preschoolers. We finished a bit later than usual but soon we had gathered all of the kids and headed home. 
  • Whitman fell asleep on the way home and I as I was changing the sleeping boys clothes, he woke up enough to tell me that he wanted his socks on and then asked me why we have presidents. He is something else. We were a bit noisy downstairs looking at 4 new picture books that Robby has ordered so he soon woke up for a few minutes. Then it was soon time for everyone to head to bed! 

September 26, 2017

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  • I did wake everyone but Reagan up this morning. We started on breakfast; I had planned on not making her eggs and toast since she was planning on sleeping in because she had finished today's school work yesterday. I had figured that they would be cold and she would rather eat something else. However, I miscounted and had plenty of eggs and toast left for her. (The kids were bummed that we didn't have butter for their toast today and I was concerned that my eggs would stick without them. However, I did learn today that the best scrambled eggs are made with olive oil.)
  • As we were finishing breakfast, Reagan came downstairs. She said that she had been awake since I had woken up her sisters but stayed upstairs to make their beds. We told Whitman goodbye and then started to work on our school work.
  • I doubt that Reagan will probably ever do her school work the day before after today. I wouldn't let her play on her ipad so I think that she was a little bored. I offered for her to work with Keaton but she declined. Unfortunately, I had forgotten that I needed brownies made so it was nearly 11:30 when I remembered that and set her to that task. It is too bad that I didn't have supper for her to make or something.
  • School went well though Graham is doing some pretty tough math (354,693 divided by 642) and became pretty frustrated. After her had his melt down, I helped him rewrite his problems on another piece of paper to make it easier. He still missed most of them due to silly little math errors. He does get the concept so I just helped him correct a few. At bunko tonight, we were talking about kids becoming frustrated and angry and someone suggested a punching bag. I really think that might help him so much sometimes.
  • Graham helped me make lunch today. It was kind of crazy because I pulled out all kind of leftovers and then even offered up sandwiches. Anderson did ask for half of a sandwich but other than that all of the leftovers were eaten. 
  • Anderson still had some school work to finish this afternoon but they convinced me to play a game right after lunch. We played for the championship trophy and it came down to a last second tie between Graham and Reagan, my two most competitive children. At the end everyone was screaming and yelling-not exactly the peaceful afternoon I had envisioned.
  • I ended up on the treadmill some this afternoon, something I need to do more often. The kids played some and Graham and Campbell went outside to play basketball. She will be playing this fall at Immanual along with her big brothers. Campbell told Graham that she would go out and play with him but she didn't want him to teach her anything because she already knew everything that he did. Gracious me!
  • I had bunko tonight and was able to run into two stores quickly before arriving. Amy had two desserts and they were both absolutely wonderful. I even brought some home for Robby. I am not really sure what all happened while I was gone. The big boys were awake when I came home and whispered at me while I was in the kitchen. It did scare me to death but it also made my night that they waited up for their momma.

September 25, 2017

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  • Monday morning and since Whitman couldn't watch his ipad this morning, he was my constant shadow. I did loose him for a bit while he was putting his clothes on but he quickly joined me while waking up the girls. I guess the girls just sleep a bit longer because there room is a bit darker in the morning time and the boys probably get a lot more sun.
  • Soon everyone was awake and eating breakfast. I read our Bible story during breakfast and just as we had finished, it was time for Whitman to load up with Robby for school. Whitman was excited about school today because he was the snack helper. This is a very big deal to everyone when they bring the snack. It always makes me question if our snack is appropriate for something that is so very exciting. He seemed pleased with it though-apple juice, gold fish and a cheese stick. I'm glad that he liked it because he will be taking the same exact thing next time he has snack since I bought two of each.
  • The rest of us started on school. This year, we have switched our work together time to early in the morning and it is just working splendidly. It does make our lunch time much crazier since I am still trying to grade math and all of the hard subjects that the kids seem to wait until last to do. But moving up our work together time has made me enjoy those subjects so much more since we don't have to be in such a hurry.
  • Anderson was the first one finished with his work today. He was so pleased with himself-this rarely does happen. I tried to encourage him to do a few extra chores from his list because he had such a large amount of extra time. He finally agreed to this and cleaned my microwave for me.
  • Keaton took a bit longer at school today mainly because I had to send her to her room at least once. She has really started talking back and I just didn't have the energy to wash her mouth out with soap (I've only done that once with Reagan).
  • We had our lunch and then as soon as we had finished chores, Reagan, who had finished her school earlier, started on tomorrow's school. I am always surprised that the kids don't work ahead more often since the big 3 are given a week's worth of school at a time. She is pretty much finished with tomorrow's school and made a big sign on her door saying not to wake her up. Hopefully, she will wake up on her own because I will have to wake her up by 8:15 for our work together time.
  • We hung our owl paintings just as Nonna brought home Whitman. He was happy to be home and was all over the house playing. The kids were all pretty wild this afternoon and I didn't kick anyone out of the house until almost 5. 
  • We cleaned Robby's car some and then he grilled some chicken. It was pretty delicious along with green beans, mashed potatoes, leftover corn and biscuits (which took a crazy amount of time to cook since my oven was off most of the time.)
  • We cleaned the kitchen and soon afterwards, Whitman had to go to bed. He had gotten in trouble in one room and then threw his ipad in another room. Don't feel too sorry for him since it was already 8 when he was put into bed and then he played up there until his brothers came to bed at 9.
  • The girls and I played a game of Sushi Go and then we all watched one tv show before it was tooth brush time. The kids became quiet pretty quickly-maybe they were tired or maybe they will interrupt me during my ice cream time in a few minutes!

September 24, 2017

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  •  If the kids had as much initiative about things on weekdays as they do on Sunday mornings, I would be one happy lady. Everyone, but Reagan and Whitman, were dressed in their church clothes and downstairs playing ipads when I made my rounds downstairs opening up the house.
  • I herded Whitman to my room to get dressed and Reagan was coming down dressed shortly thereafter. I had them get their breakfast and this was done quickly and without fuss. We were able to leave for church early enough to get gas for the cars on the way.
  • To cap off no spend month, Robby bought a car. Yep, it was a good buy and all but I do think that this will have to be our last "no spend month" or we will go completely broke-2 Dennie kid birthday parties, 6 Dairy Queen cakes, braces and a car. 
  • We were able to see all of the grands before church and then find out seats before the service. Whitman did seem to be a bit better today. Last night during prayer time, he began jumping on his bed so in the middle of my prayer, I not so gently placed my hand on his rear. He was not happy at all about this and was probably afraid to move around too much at church for fear that we might be praying and I would get him again. 
  • As we were leaving church, he asked, "is it over?" I said yes and then he replied that he just thought we were shaking hands. 
  • Lunch was at Nonna's house and we celebrated Keaton and Robby's birthdays. Nonna had a doughnut cake for Keaton and an Oreo cake for Robby. They both blew out their candles and since Keaton had already opened her presents, Robby opened his-gift cards to Target and Lowes.
  • After lunch, the kids played some and then Robby and Anderson headed on an errand and the rest of us headed home. I realized that I had not pulled out school on Friday (just about a 30-45 minute job but not one I wanted to do on Sunday afternoon.) I did that, made a few lists (which make me happy) and then folded 2 loads of laundry.
  • The kids watched a few movies, played the xbox and opened up more of Keaton's presents. Soon, it was time for church tonight so we loaded up and headed there. 
  • Tonight in the middle of church, Whitman asked me what I was going to be for Halloween. There is really no whispering with him so I am pretty sure that the folks in front of him heard our conversation. I told him that I was going to be a "tired mom" and he said, "so you aren't going to wear a costume?"
  • After church, we picked up a pizza-if we eat before church, it is just pretty early and then the kids need something else afterwards, but if we eat after church it is just a bit late for supper and they are really hungry. So we had a granola bar or crackers on the way to church and then the pizza once we came home.
  • The kids put on their pjs and then we had a bit of downtime before bed. The big 5 played a game of Sushi Go while Whitman played on his ipad. I wasn't paying any attention to him because earlier in the day I had taken it away from him today and tomorrow. I will have to be more diligent tomorrow and not let that little stinker sneak that Ipad. 
  • We put the kids to bed and then I had my ice cream in a half cup container. I am trying to be good, so is Robby, who has even been running, but I sure don't like being good at all!

September 23, 2017-Happy Birthday (party) Keaton!

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  • My Whitman is the first one awake each morning now-or at least he is the first one to come into our room. Anderson did come in once and was pretty sour at me when I told him to wait on getting breakfast because Robby was going to cook something or another.
  • Soon, Robby did get up and start cooking and I began working on the food table. Keaton's party was a little less prep than usual and much unlike me I just waited to the last minute which made it as high stress as usual. Soon though the food table was done and I was able to help with breakfast clean up.
  • Robby headed outside to work on the yard and after I worked around here some, it was time to run a few errands. I left the big boys with a chore list for after their xbox game and instructions to help Whitman since Robby was mowing. Then Alyssa Kate, Reagan, and I went to Sams to pick up Keaton's cupcake (second time in a row I haven't been pleased with their cupcakes-last time the gave us the wrong flavor and this time the icing seemed very runny.)
  • Anyway, our next stop was to pick up Keaton. She had spent the night with Grannymom and Grandpa. She ate at Chickfila and even went on a long walk/bike ride this morning. When I arrived, she was drying her freshly painted nails. Everyone needs pretty nails for their birthday party.
  • Then we dropped Alyssa off at home and headed home ourselves. I realized then that it was crunch time. The boys were already watching the game but when I found out that some of their chores were done half way, they were quickly brought upstairs and told to do it again. I possibly felt a bit bad when they did miss the first touch down but how hard is it to things right the first time?
  • Robby was still mowing so I did use my kid power after the first quarter was over. Soon everything was all set in and outside and it was almost party time. Robby even squeezed in a run before the party started. 
  • Dana arrived first and set up a few things. She was our resident painting instructor. It was just amazing and I couldn't have done it without her! Keaton was just beyond excitement about her birthday party and could not wait for everyone to arrive.
  • Harper came first and then Izzy, her two little friends from pre-K. Then the Kamps, Heltz and Penningtons all came. It was a three tables full of girls-Reagan, Alyssa Kate, Campbell, Eden, Lily, Keaton, Caroline, Charlotte, Izzy, Hayley and Harper. When everyone arrived, we headed outside to do our paintings.
  • Dana had given Keaton 5 or 6 choices and she picked a cute painting of an owl. I looked at it and thought that there was no way that it could be done by 4-12 year olds and I am pretty sure that I couldn't have painted it myself. Lilly helped Dana out they painted a canvas as well as they told us step by step exactly what to do.
  • The girls did so well and stuck with it even though it took a bit of time. Every owl was completely different (Campbell's owl has these huge eyes and it is my absolute favorite). After the paintings were finished, we took a group picture and then headed in for cake and presents.
  • Keaton happily blew out her candles and then everyone dug into the cupcakes and food. I do think that my rainbow jello was the favorite-and the messiest. After everyone finished, we moved to the living room to start on opening presents. Keaton racked up-she scored lots art supplies, gift cards, shopkins, smelly lotion, a Kavu bag, a game (that we played tonight) and a water bottle.
  • Afterwards, she passed out her party favors and was a very good hostess. She can be a little booger sometime but today my Keaton was just perfect! After everyone had left, it was time to start cleaning up. Some kids helped inside and others worked outside with Robby. Soon the house and yard were picked up and everyone was inside and tired.
  • We drove around the block a bit because Keaton had not gotten a change to ride in Robby's new car. Then it was back home for shower time for everyone. Football was on this evening as I played Sushi Go with the kids and Keaton, with the help of her sisters, opened quite a few of her presents.
  • Robby and I ended our evening with a bit of ice cream before sitting down to watch some tv, blog and veg out for a bit after our busy, busy day!    

September 22, 2017-Happy Birthday Robby!

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  • Whitman came into our room early this morning and stayed with us for a bit. The boys were already awake so Whitman, my shadow today, and I went upstairs to wake up the girls.
  • We ate our breakfasts and then started on our together work. As we did this, some of the kids made Robby birthday cards, which I took up and then forgot to give him until just a few minutes ago.
  • The kids worked on their school work and Anderson was nearly finished by lunch time today. His math began something new so I guess it was easier than his previous math. I guess it would be-today was algebra stuff (1/2x - 5 = 13) and yesterday was finding the area and circumference of a circle. I know these things are important but in my daily life, I rarely find the area of a circle-just saying!
  • Whitman did well today. It is always a bit of a struggle since he isn't usually here during school day. He put his laundry up for me when I asked and then watched a few movies as we worked together. Afterwards, he did a few things from his boxes and then sat and watched Keaton do some of her school work with me.
  • We had our lunch and just as we finished cleaning from lunch, Grannymom and Grandpa came to pick up Keaton. She was headed to their house for the evening and couldn't wait to get there. Around 9 this morning, Robby saw Keaton in the hallway wearing her backpack. He suggested that she take it off for a bit.
  • After she left, the rest of us went to town on cleaning the house. It isn't the cleanest but it will certainly due for a 5 year old birthday party. We do have to vacuum tomorrow-I can already tell that it was fall because the leaves are already all throughout my house. Not only that, Graham asked for his sleeping bag tonight saying that he was cold at night...or maybe he just wants to sleep in the floor tonight.
  • We loaded up around 5 to take Campbell to her birthday party-it was a surprise sleepover party. How much fun! I think they had a blast. We also dropped Reagan off with Candice and she shuttled her to Cate's birthday party across town.
  • Then Robby and I picked up the pizzas and headed back to our house. The Wilson's arrived soon and it was all boys here at first tonight. The dug into the pizza and Shannon even brought chocolate chip cookies to help cap off Robby's birthday celebration.
  • The grownups and Whitman loaded up to go and pick up Reagan and Alyssa Kate. Whitman fell asleep on the drive out there and when we returned home, he was put right to bed. The kids all played some ping pong and watched a movie or two. Around 11, Reagan asked for a snack and I told her that this was not a party! I guess it really was Robby's party though!
  • A bit later tonight Whitman stumbled out of his room. I was in the kitchen so I asked him what was wrong. He told me that his brothers weren't in their beds. Robby told him that he would go and get him but I guess since he fell asleep in the car, Whitman didn't get in one last potty so he had wet himself. I was super relieved that he did this while on the carpet and not in his bed. I changed him and spent some time with the carpet cleaner-this made me pretty grateful that I haven't had to use it in a while. Which is something I have probably just jinxed!

September 21, 2017

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  • I woke up this morning right at 7 when Robby walked into the bedroom. He told me all about his night. He had his hammock in his tent but soon realized that it would be too swingy so he took it down and slept in his sleeping bag (he had a comfy mat and a sheet as well). The parking lot lights were crazy bright so he had a tarp over the tent. This caused it to be pretty warm and he said that he wouldn't have been able to sleep at all without it. He ended up watching a movie until he finally fell asleep around 4. 
  • Around 5:15, they started playing music and waking everyone up. He started packing up and then they all lined up and walked through the restaurant while workers were cheering and banging pots and pans. They were then handed their gift cards and sent home. Robby stopped at Shipleys on the way home.
  • As he was telling me about it all, Whitman joined us. It was nearly 7:30 and I finally had to wake up the boys, who are usually up, and the girls. When I told the boys that Robby was home, they jumped up and ran down the steps-or maybe they were running because I said "doughnuts."
  • We all had our doughnut breakfast and then Robby took Whitman to school while the rest of us started on our together work. We worked pretty quickly this morning on that together work and soon the kids were starting on their work. 
  • Things went incredibly smoothly today...well, except for Keaton. She can get a bit of an attitude lately. Everyone, but Anderson, finished by lunch time. Robby ran to lunch with Keaton and Campbell and the rest of us fended for ourselves.
  • I did let Anderson have a break during lunch but man, that boy! He told Robby that he took a lot of breaks and I will certainly agree to that. Once I walked in and he was practicing his golf swing. Another time, I could hear him chanting "fried ham, fried ham." But he is the only one who gets 90-100 percent of his math correct every single time. I guess slow and steady does actually win the race.
  • The others came home with movies. They turned those on and I snuck out. I had to run to the Dollar Tree (again) and then to Kroger. Campbell and Keaton, of course, had asked to go with me but I told them no-sometimes it is just nice to be quiet. 
  • I bought my goods and headed home. Robby had another shop so he took Reagan and Anderson. Graham was the designated supper cooker tonight so he made nachos for everyone-Graham had corn and pork chops on his along with a scrambled egg, Campbell and Keaton had pinto beans on theirs and Whitman just wanted cheese! 
  • After the kitchen was clean, Campbell, Keaton and Whitman worked on a bit of birthday party food. Then we did a bit of Phase 10 playing. Campbell smoked us all so badly that we finally just quit when the others came home.
  • They had eaten out and then made another run to the store. Robby loves grocery shopping just as much as I do. I thought that I might just ask for Kroger gift cards for Christmas-but then I would end up spending it on milk and bread and not the fun things that I see there.
  • We then celebrated Robby's birthday a bit early-3 Dennie kids will be out and about tomorrow night so candles and singing were necessary this evening. We had ice cream and then it was teeth brushing time. We put the kids to bed about 30 minutes early tonight because Robby was fading fast from his around 1 hour of sleep last night. I think that the kids didn't mind too much because they were able to read and 3 of them have new library books that they are very excited about. 

September 20, 2017

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  • I did sleep with one eye open last night and thankfully, Robby didn't grab my head "trying to turn it off" as he did last night. Robby and I really stirred before everyone else did this morning. We had thought about me taking the kids to the free chick fil a breakfast on the way to Bible study. Our chick fil a is giving away free breakfast on Wednesday mornings this month. 
  • Anderson had already eaten and I figured that at least one weirdo wouldn't want the breakfast, so I just decided to eat at home. That was fine because there would be lots more of chick fil a later.
  • Once my bagel was warm, we loaded up to head to Bible study. We left a bit later than usual but that was fine since we have still been getting there so much earlier than we need to. We had just passed the gas station when Keaton realized that she didn't have her shoes. So we turned around to grab those. I did make sure everyone else had shoes before we left the driveway again. What is it with my people and their shoes?
  • In opening at Bible study, Candice mentioned that there were still openings at Chick fil a in Maumelle. The first 100 people in line get a years worth of combo meals. It took about 2 text for me to convince Robby to cross the river. I knew that he hadn't had a shower yet but by the time our opening was finished, he was in the car.
  • He did take a shower, grabbed his computer so he could work along with a hammock and chair and then he was off. I finally got the text that he made it and could then pay attention to my Bible study group. 
  • Mike was using our little tent so Robby was able to use Wes' extra tent. They had a tent for shade and there were ample extension cords. They fed everyone lunch and even had water and ice out for them during the day. There were games and prizes which helped pass the time.
  • After our Bible study, I told the kids were Robby was and they were all a bit disappointed. They wanted to be sitting in the parking lot that felt like 105 degrees with their dad. Robby would have taken two of them (that's the limit) but they had to be with him when he registered and we were at Bible study. Next time though, we will plan better.
  • When we walked out of Bible study, Nonna and Pops were there waiting for Keaton. She was so happy to get to go shopping-well, browsing. They had lunch at chick fil a and then spent most of the afternoon looking for things that she wants for her birthday. There is no telling what all she pointed at today!
  • The rest of us headed to the park with my group and the Heltz. It was hot but the kids did play some. My leader had brought tons of cookies and as we were leaving she was trying to give them away. One lady put a whole box of cookies in Graham's hands. I couldn't take them away so we all had cookies for snack this afternoon.
  • After the park, we headed home for a few minutes. I unpacked from Bible study and then I packed everything that Robby would need-sleeping bag, pillow, sheet, extension cord, another extension cord, ice chest, drinks, clothes, toiletries, candy, cookies to share, and a big fan. 
  • By the time we made it there, Whitman was sound asleep so he stayed in the car. They rest of us stood on the grass while Robby stayed in the parking lot (they have quite a few rules). We dropped off his stuff and chatted until it was time for his group to go inside (air conditioning!) and pack meals for the hurricane folks.
  • We then drove home and hung out for the rest of the afternoon. Campbell and I worked on some stuff for Keaton's party, I cut a few boards and soon it was time for me to heat up supper. The kids were going to get pizza at church but I wasn't sure if they would get enough so we ate at home too. Reagan even forgot to get pizza tonight so it was a good thing we did eat at home.
  • We then hurried to church and afterwards, Graham really wanted me to go and see Robby. I thought about it but it would have involved me having to get gas and since it was already late, we just face timed him at bedtime.
  • Everyone changed into their pjs and then I did give them a pretty good night time snack-trying to bribe them for an easy bedtime. The boys room was pretty noisy for a bit but everyone seems to be asleep right now!

September 19, 2017

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  • I guess I had hit snooze just one too many times this morning. When my alarm rang again, Robby grabbed my head. I had been kind of awake for a while so I quickly started saying "hey! hey!" at him. He woke up enough to realize what he was doing and said that he thought my head was the alarm. I think I am sleeping in the bonus room tonight.
  • After that, I went ahead and got out of the bed as fast as I could. The kids were mostly already awake because today was homeschool day. Everyone was very excited about the day. I helped Whitman get himself ready while making toast and eggs for breakfast.
  • Everyone ate breakfast and then Robby took Whitman off to school. While he was gone, the rest of us worked together, did chores and then the kids had some time to do a bit of school work. The morning flew by and before I was even ready, it was time to go and pick up Whitman.
  • I did run to the library before picking him up and then grabbed him early from class. He was so excited about doing his report and wanted to rush home. By the time that we made it home, most everyone else was already at our house. We had said 11-11:30 and even though I was back by 11:15ish most everyone else had already arrived.
  • The kids (all 22 of them) ate their lunches and then they all played better than they have in a long time and we just let them play. Happy kids=happy moms. Probably later than we should have we started the activities. Today each kiddo read a book and then put a few items in the box to represent the books. I had printed out a page where the kids could then match the book titles to the box number. 
  • After the guessing was over, it was time for the reports. The picked youngest to oldest so Whitman went first. Bless, he started off so well but then he realized he had not shown his moose so he started over and did it all again. If he wasn't so cute, he could have been a big scene. His book was If You Give a Moose a Muffin.
  • Keaton had her report on Biscuit and she read it all by herself. Campbell and then Graham went and they both did really well. Campbell's report was on The Princess in Black and Graham's was The Invisible Coin.
  • By the time we made it to the big kids, I was already trying to figure out what we could do next time to shorten the reports. We will probably have to have the littles do reports and then later have the bigs do reports later in the day or on another month. Anderson did his report about Inspector Flytrap and Reagan did A Wrinkle in Time.
  • After the reports were over, we kicked the kids out to play and even sang Happy Birthday to Eden. Once everyone left, the kids worked on picking up. I am so thankful that they were willing to work hard once everyone leaves-if they didn't help so well, then we couldn't have everyone over. It can be pretty overwhelming but probably by the time that most people were home, the house was straight again.
  • This afternoon seemed to fly by and soon we were meeting Robby at Sams. We picked out Keaton's cupcakes and then went to McDonalds to eat. Afterwards, I ran into the Dollar Store with Graham, Campbell and Reagan. They were all buying things for Keaton and even bought a few things for themselves. 
  • Afterwards, we used our weekly Dairy Queen blizzards and then Reagan and I headed off to Target to buy a birthday present. Everyone else headed home to start on showers. We were home shortly afterwards and Reagan quickly had her shower before it was bedtime.
  • I just had to go upstairs because Whitman was busy naming off the list of his favorites. I think that his brothers were egging him. When I made it upstairs, I told him that everybody were his favorites because we are family. Before I could even get the rest out of my mouth, he interjected "but we are not a team." 

September 18, 2017

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  • This Monday was pretty rough. I was up at a decent time and everyone was able to eat together as I read today's Bible story. Robby took Whitman to school while the rest of us started our working together.
  • I am not sure if our slow weekend led to lots of extra energy around the house today or what but even when we were working together, I could tell that the school day was going to be a doozey. 
  • The kids did not cause me to lose my patience this morning which was a good thing but I did briefly think about driving away to pick me up some ice cream. However, I stayed and helped everyone finish school.
  • I with that some of Graham would rub off on Anderson and some of Anderson would rub off on Graham. Graham flies through school so he can finish when he really needs to just slow down. Anderson takes his sweet time during school when he really needs to hurry up just a bit. 
  • Tomorrow will be a better school day-since we aren't even doing school because it is homeschool day. Reagan helped make lunch-it was almost 1 when we finally ate. I read some of our book to the kids and just as we finished, Nonna and Pops came to drop of Whitman a bit early.
  • He was happy to be home and had a list of things he wanted to play with-leaving a trail of destruction throughout this house. The other day I felt bad because he watched movies all afternoon and today, all I wanted him to do was watch movies! He didn't have any time for movies-he played trains, built with blocks, painted, played with playdoh, played with sand, made a slide for his animals and even built a marble track.
  • Reagan and Graham helped me make spaghetti for supper tonight. I think that is what we had last Monday night. Everyone's likes it so this week we doubled the recipe so there will be enough for some leftovers tomorrow. 
  • Anderson had taken a pretty long break during school to make some pudding for everyone's after supper snack. The kids all enjoyed it except silly Whitman would not try any of it. Who doesn't eat chocolate pudding? 
  • Then it was shower time and afterwards, I played Phase 10 with Campbell, Keaton and Graham. Anderson played the xbox some and was on his ipad like Reagan and Whitman. It was another slow day which is fine but I am craving a bit of activity and I know that tomorrow will provide that!

September 17, 2017

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  • My boys were already wearing their Sunday clothes when I saw them this morning. I then headed upstairs to wake up the girls. I couldn't find Campbell-I glanced in Keaton's bed and then Reagan's. I knew she wasn't downstairs so I even lifted up her covers which we were on the floor, and she wasn't there. Thankfully, she popped out of their closet door all dressed just as I was beginning to become concerned.
  • Next on the list was to get Whitman ready. He can put on his pants and undies by himself...only when he wants to.  So it took him a good long time to for him to get ready-I think I had my shower, got ready and even dried my hair while he was still sitting in the closet floor naked from the waist down. 
  • Graham had brought home 3 doughnuts from yesterday, so I divided them into halves. The kids each had one plus whatever other breakfast that they could find. Then it was time to head to church. Whitman seemed to do better in church today though by the end of it, I feel as if I have fought a wild tiger all through the sermon. 
  • After church, we headed to Grannymom's house for Sunday lunch and to celebrate Robby's birthday. Grannymom had BBQ and all the fixings. Robby blew out candles on Oreo delight and then he opened presents-a Lowe's gift card, tools, a level and a new wallet. 
  • The kids played outside and Keaton picked out what she wanted to paint on Saturday at her birthday party. Dana has graciously been nominated to lead the girls in painting a picture so it will be quite an interesting party.
  • This afternoon, Robby and I went upstairs to take a nap and left the kids downstairs to do whatever they pleased. I was pleasantly surprised that the house was not a disaster when we did wake up from our nap. I told Robby that I would take care of the picking up if he would take care of the supper. A few minutes later, he came downstairs saying that he had found a pizza mystery shop and a Chinese coupon. That worked out well.
  • He took everyone except for the big boys and headed out. The boys hung out at home with me. Graham worked on his report and even typed it much quicker than I could have ever imagined. Afterwards, the boys played xbox while we waited on supper to arrive.
  • We all ate and then watched a Bates and a McGhee before sending the crew to bed. This is going to be a busy week so everyone will need lots of rest!

September 16, 2017

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  • It was a bit quieter around here this morning with only Reagan really sleeping in. I was surprised that anyone in their room slept late since Anderson also slept in their room. The kids found their own breakfast and found their spots in the living room.
  • It wasn't too long before Keaton and Campbell set off with Robby. They stopped at Sonic for a drink and then on to run a few errands. While they were gone, Anderson and I worked on Legos for a very long time. The girls had fun but when they returned home and Campbell realized that she wasn't getting to go to the store, she had herself a little fit. I guess that she loves the store as much as I do. 
  • Robby came home for a few minutes and then was back out the door with Anderson to do a mystery shop and then to hit the grocery store. Graham and Whitman were still gone so it was just the girls and me. We had our lunch, clipped fingernails and they even practiced their reports a few times.
  • Robby brought Whitman home with him and soon afterwards, Graham came back with Nonna and Pops. The afternoon was kind of slow and we did nothing much. Robby and I did take a nap.
  • At supper, we headed to the Wilson's house to celebrate Shannon's birthday. Tony had made steak and chicken and gracious, I wish that we could make chicken like his. It was really good-I probably should have stuck some in my purse (if I carried a purse.)
  • After supper, I worked on making my lava cakes. That were a flop! I overcooked them even though I did it for the least amount of suggested time. Everyone still found them edible with some icing, chocolate syrup and ice cream on top!
  • The kids all played-maybe a bit too much. Then, we headed home in time for all of the kiddos to have showers before bedtime for all. It is Saturday night so showers were mandatory. We can run them through the showers pretty quickly these days which makes shower time shorter and bedtime closer which is a good thing.

September 15, 2017

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  • I believe that I was the last one out of the bed this morning. I didn't lollygag long though because when I opened the cabinet door, I saw that today's breakfast menu was muffins. Graham and Keaton were nearby so they were tapped to make muffins. (Now, yes, I do have dozens in my freezer but no one seems to want to eat my frozen muffins. I guess I should start eating them.)
  • After the muffins cooled, we ate them and then did our work together first. That is still working out well which makes me so happy but also pushes our lunch further back some. School went fine today and Graham worked as hard as he could since he was headed to Pops to spend the night. Graham packed last night so he would be ready.
  • I am not sure what all Anderson did all school day today but he was still working on school around 2:30 when I finally called it and told him that he could do the rest on Monday. Him working slow makes me crazy but he gets what he is doing and isn't struggling. I believe that he probably enjoys the school day more than the others because he probably spends a bit more time goofing off.
  • Nonna and Pops came to pick up Graham and fairly soon afterwards, we had our lunch. Whitman and Anderson love for me to read more than any of the others. I read a few book during lunch and then everyone did a few chores. 
  • I spent some of the afternoon getting ready for Monday's school. It is a never ending process getting school ready for the next day or the next week. Soon Grannymom and Grandpa arrived. They were here to pick up Whitman who spent the night at their house. Poor Whitman needed a night out-he cried yesterday because Nonna wasn't coming to get him and then he broke down another time about wanting a present. 
  • The rest of the afternoon was pretty slow. Around supper time Reagan did make her meal-pork chops, rice, corn, green beans and rolls. She even put her new apron on and was just the cutest thing ever cooking. Keaton had already made jello in the afternoon so it was a full cafeteria style meal.
  • Supper was great and Reagan was pretty pleased with herself. Her braces don't really seem to be giving her a problem and man, she just looked so much older with them. Kind of makes me sad!
  • We did nothing this evening-it was a thrilling Friday night. Keaton and I did play a game on her ipad after reading a few books. We did watch a documentary on Hawaii before bedtime (see, I told you, we are thrilling,)
  • As the kids were getting into their beds, Anderson grabbed his covers and headed to the girls' room. I guess he didn't plan on sleeping in his room by himself. 

September 14, 2017

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  • Whitman was again in our room this morning first. He laid with us for a little bit and then asked about making a marble track. There have been marble tracks all over this house the last few days. It is possibly making me a bit crazy. I told him that there wasn't time this morning and that we had to go and wake up the girls.
  • He went with me upstairs and this morning Campbell was in Reagan's bed. Campbell later told me that Reagan asked them to sleep in her bed because when they come to her bed, they bring their covers. Then she doesn't have to use her covers and her bed stays nice, neat and made.
  • We had waffles and pancakes for breakfast today and as soon as Whitman took his last bite, it was time for him to go to school. Robby took him and the rest of us clean the kitchen and started to work on our science and history. 
  • Right at 9, Reagan and I jumped in the car for her day out. Braces day! Poor Reagan was not looking forward to the day though. The lady was great with her and even though they said that it would take an hour or more, it was much less than an hour. 
  • Personally, I think Reagan looks really cute with her braces-more grown up. Afterwards, we drove right to Tropical Smoothie and she bought herself a smoothie. Nonna was on standby to get Whitman if the orthodontist took too long but in the end Reagan and I even had time to walk through Goodwill before picking up Whitman.
  • He was the first one for Reagan to show her braces to. After Reagan smiled at Whitman, he said "those are Lillys." He remembered Lilly's braces. We headed home to check on the others doing school work at home.
  • They had mostly completed their school work-some did it with excellence and other not so much. Once we had most of school sorted out, it was time to eat our lunch. Whitman had come home asking to have a picnic so I said yes. I even offered for them to have a picnic outside but I could get no takers on that. They had their picnic in the living room and Whitman even made everyone have a dance party afterwards.
  • Once that was cleaned up, it was chore time for my people followed by some downtime. The kids headed outside a bit too late in the afternoon because they were only outside for about an hour when it was time to load up and head to church.
  • Poor Whitman asked "again?" when I said that we were going to church-since Sunday he has been to church (or a church) seven different times. Tonight was Refresh at church and it was really good. The kids all enjoyed it too and were ready to go back next month.
  • When we made it home, everyone had showers and then a cookie for a snack before brushing their teeth and heading to bed.

September 13, 2017

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  • This morning when I went in to wake the girls up, I could tell that Keaton's bed was very empty. After a brief moment of panic, I did find her cuddled up in Reagan's bed. The morning before it was Campbell in Reagan's bed. I am not sure what all is happening upstairs but it is sweet that my sisters want to be near each other.
  • My boys were already awake this morning and didn't need to be woken up. They had been making marble tracks before 7. Last night I had let them watch some marble track videos on youtube and that was all that the could think about this morning. Graham worked on one coming down the stairs and Anderson tried to make one in the kitchen. In the end, they decided that watching them on the computer was just as fun as making them. So after they were dressed, that is where they headed.
  • This was our second Bible study morning and we again left in plenty of time. I know that our leave time will get later each week so I gladly take these few mornings when we did arrive a few minutes early and have to sit in the car. 
  • Reagan, Graham and I all had bagels this morning as we drove off to Bible study. That is my favorite part of the week. Reagan was a bit bummed that this was her last bagel-not really but the foods that they told braces wearers not to wear did include bagels. I told her that she could just tear it into bite sized pieces and be just fine!
  • Campbell's Bible study teacher today told me that I had done so good with all of my kids-that they could all just read so well. That is encouraging to hear since I have no one really to compare the kids to except for each other and often doubt my teaching capabilities.
  • After Bible study, we all headed to the park to eat our lunch. The kids played really well until it was time to get in the car and then they just fell apart. We then ran to Micheal's to pick up a few things for Keaton's party and then it was home.
  • The kids did some of their chores and practiced their short little reports about their book. Then it was free time for everyone-even me. I may or may not have rested my eyes for a few minutes on the couch. I told Robby that Wednesdays are just hard but he reminded me that they used to be harder when I would leave the park and then go and visit Beebee for a bit. That was true but I still deserve a Wednesday nap.
  • Soon it was time for supper and time to head to church tonight. Everyone is pleased with their classes and Anderson didn't mention anything about the one short class where he is the only boy so hopefully that is going well. Pick up time is less crazy this year since I don't have to go upstairs and all around the buildings to fetch the kids but it is still crazy since the hallways are absolutely full. 
  • At home, Robby had everyone warm brownies for their snack. They gobbled those up and then it was time for pjs and after a few minutes of down time it was again bedtime!

September 12, 2017-Happy Birthday Reagan!

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  • Whitman joined us in bed after 7 this morning and I was very thankful that we had all slept all night long. Robby, however, had not slept all night long. He had fever last night and didn't really sleep well. 
  • Whitman and I went upstairs to wake up the birthday girl and Graham joined us as we sang to her this morning. I didn't plan well enough to make her a big breakfast so it was candles in toast and fried eggs but she didn't seem to mind.
  • Soon Whitman was out the door for school. He has a cold too and has been a bit difficult lately which usually means that he doesn't feel that great either. I think that he did fine at school or at least when we were at the open house tonight Ms. Stacy did say that he just cracks her up. That at least sounds like he acts decent.
  • The rest of us did school...I know I should have skipped on Reagan's birthday but really, what else would we have done today and she probably won't be able to do school on Thursday because of her braces appointment. I don't think she minded too much-mainly because she is carrying around her duffel bag of banned candy (due to the braces) with her and is working fervently at finishing it all off before Thursday.
  • For some reason, I finished my school stuff early this morning. I am not too sure how that happened but it sure did make me happy. By the time that lunch rolled around, the kids were all finished with school except for a bit of reading.
  • Reagan helped make lunch and then the kids went to town on their chores. The new chore chart is written for the entire week and it sure does make my evening routines a bit easier not having to do that each night. After their chores, most of us sat in the living room and read. I did as well-I wanted to make sure that Anderson read and understood his book for our homeschool day project so I read it quickly. 
  • When I did work with Anderson on his project, I was pleased to see that he had indeed read the book and he understood it very well. That made me happy! Next up was some treadmill time for me followed by working with Campbell on her report for homeschool day. Five down only one more to go. 
  • Whitman and Robby made it home around supper time. Campbell's chore this week was to make supper one night and she was delighted that I asked her to tonight. The only catch with making supper is that it has to be something that we have so chicken nuggets, cornbread, beans and corn was the menu tonight. It killed hunger and everyone left happily.
  • After supper, we all loaded up for Whitman's open house. We saw his room (already seen it) and met his teacher (6th time to have Ms. Stacy). After all of this, we did watch a bit of a slide show and have a cookie. 
  • This would have been enough to make Whitman happy but we needed to end this birthday with a little more celebration so we headed off to Dairy Queen. Everyone picked a Blizzard and enjoyed it-well, Whitman didn't want any of his because he thought that he was getting just M&Ms and not ice cream and M&Ms. He must not have been hungry at all because he didn't eat any of it. He didn't seem to care at all though.
  • After we had finished, we headed home. The kids had showers, made their lunches for tomorrow and the big 4 even watched some marble track race videos on youtube before bed!