- Campbell is not home tonight, and she had to text to remind me to write the blog. I guess I had completely forgotten all about it! I was just having a big evening-took a nap, ate some ice cream, read some of my book-and since I didn't have my computer anywhere near me, I never thought about it once.
- The day was busy-this is Friday so I should have felt like I had extra time, but instead I stayed busy all day. Most of that was my own doing since I did make cinnamon crunch bagels along with chocolate chip scones today. Campbell helped me make the scones, and both recipes were pretty delicious.
- Robby and I went to Costco today-he bought a battery for the white van. For months it has been difficult to start, but we didn't think it was the battery. He thought it was a connection or something-I would have to use my weight to turn the key all the way. However, the new battery solved all of that so that will be super nice.
- We also walked around the store some, and it was pretty busy. When we came home, I had time to walk Bentley before Campbell drove me to Nonna's house. We dropped off some scones and dropped off Pop's sock of the month-they were soccer socks this month.
- Then Campbell went to spend the night at a friend's house. On the way home, I drove super slow so I could listen to my book. Next Robby and I went to eat supper at On the Border-we couldn't get any of the kids to go with us nor did anyone suggest any food for us to pick up. They made it find though-Reagan made dumplings, Keaton and Whitman made a pizza, Anderson had a hamburger, and Graham and also Reagan had some of our leftovers for supper.
- We made it home right in the middle of the rain. Now we are going to bed wondering if we will have soccer tomorrow-Reagan and Graham are hoping no while Anderson and Keaton are hope yes. Campbell will be with her friends, so she doesn't care either way!
April 26, 2024
April 25, 2024
- For some reason I felt like I was running around like crazy today. This morning started off normally-though we did have to take a break during our morning reading to watch the hail. Campbell even ran on the patio and scooped some up for Keaton and Whitman.
- The hail bouncing off the window did wake up Graham, but not really Anderson. Whitman did convince me to let him take breaks again during his school work-so for every two things that he finishes, he earns 5 minutes on his ipad for a break. He banks this time though and waits and takes his break when he has earned a 20 minutes break.
- And speaking of Whitman, last night on the way home from church, Graham thought that he was falling asleep. When he walked in the house, Robby immediately asked him if he was sick. Later in the evening, I touched all over him and he did fell hot-but he was covered in a blanket too so I wasn't too sure. He was adamant though that he did not want any medicine, so I wasn't sure what exactly I was going to find when I woke him up. Thankfully, he is just stuffy and not feverish or feeling bad.
- At noon, Graham and I left to go and take his math accuplacer test. This was his second try-this test allows him to take college algebra next year even though his act test score isn't that high. When he walked out of the door today, I could tell that he didn't pass-but when I saw his score, I knew that he did. He just needed a 249, but thought it was a 251 that he needed like he needed on the other test. He cut it close by earning a 249, but it works!
- On the way home, we picked up a Sonic drink for him, and then I picked up pictures for Reagan's graduation table at the church dinner. After I came home from this outing is when I got busy.
- I was able to sign the big boys up for their concurrent classes in the fall-I had to sign them both up twice since they are each taking one through comm central and one not through comm central. Then I finished my concession stand schedule for the week even though it looks like it is going to rain. And finally, I had to have Reagan and Graham read something for a curriculum.
- Anderson left for Raymar to paint the fields and run his practice night while Campbell, Keaton, and I played a game. It was supposed to be a game that took an hour or so, but I guess we were really just fast because it didn't take that long at all.
- Tonight Robby cleaned out the fridge and freezer since it was starting to leak on the floor. We can tell you what kind of fridge not to buy if you are in the market. But this will help it foe a few weeks, but meanwhile it made the fridge look incredibly nice and empty (which we will hear a lot about it being empty since all of the kids will say "wow, we don't have anything to eat.")
- I'm not cuddled up on the couch trying to decide if I want hot chocolate or if I want to get up at all!
April 24, 2024
- Bentley was not very settled last night-at all. I took her out at 1 and then 2, and I didn't really get to sleep then until a bit later. She roamed around our room and the house most of the night until Robby took her out again two more times before our alarms went off. I do feel a bit sorry for her since her tummy isn't quite right, but I could do with one less dog.
- The kids were fairly easy to wake up especially since I gave them a few more minutes to sleep in. We did our morning reading, and Graham went ahead and woke up. Anderson was not too far behind him, so everyone was up and working (except for Reagan).
- Graham and Reagan left for work early, and I took Bentley for a short walk. For some reason I was just tired today so we didn't go very far at all, but she was still ready to come home.
- This afternoon Whitman and I worked together, and then I sat down and read for a little bit. I actually had two more things on my list today, but I just couldn't motivate myself to accomplish anything else.
- When Reagan came home from church, she was there for a bit before leaving again to lead her dgroup. Campbell and Keaton went with her, so it was just the boys and me on the way to church. Afterwards, some folks went to ChickFilA while the rest of us came home.
- I made myself some rice to eat since I was starving for something warm to eat. Now Robby and I are watching a cooking show.
April 23, 2024
- This morning when I came into the living room, Whitman was on the couch as he often is. However, this morning he was sound asleep. He is never asleep on the couch so I wasn't sure exactly what had happened I looked to see that he was wearing all the same clothes as last night so that was a good thing. It took me a long time to wake him up, but really it still took longer to wake up Anderson.
- We did our morning reading, and then Keaton moved on to do her work. She has started doing her school work on the patio. Whitman has moved to the floor of the school room while Graham is really the only other one working mostly in the school room. Anderson does some work in there, but he often does quite a bit in the living room now. Campbell makes her spot on the couch usually with Bentley.
- I'm not really sure when I headed out with Bentley for our walk, but I think that it was earlier than usual. Then I came home and read some before doing spelling with Whitman-this continues to be his favorite time of the day (not at all), and it is also my most frustrating time of the day. Some days he can spell a word right and then the next day he can not!
- Reagan left first for her work. Then a bit later, I left with Anderson, Graham, Campbell, and Keaton. Anderson needed shoes so we bought him some, and Campbell helped find me a pair for mother's day.
- Graham had to be at Raymar first to help take pictures. The rest of us didn't need to be there until 6:30. Keaton had her make up game tonight which Anderson reffed and Campbell reffed the field next to ours. Keaton's game was good-they did win, and Keaton scored a great goal.
- Robby picked up pizza on the way home, so we all ate and finished Reagan's graduation announcements. Now Keaton is watching Amazing Race with us before bedtime.
April 22, 2024
- My plan has been for this to be the next to last day of school, but when I looked at our leftover history today, I realized that I was just one lesson behind for that to happen. So what did I do today? I read both history lessons today-and calling them "history lessons" isn't really adequate-those things are history chapters, and I read two today. I was pretty pleased with myself.
- We did school work this morning, and I tried to sneak in as many things off of my to do list as possible as well. Plus the some of the kids work is a bit different today since there are somethings that I am wanting them to finish so we are hitting those pretty hard, and both of the big boys are already starting something that I wanted them to do next year.
- I think that everyone was finished with school by 11:30, and I had plans on taking Bentley on a walk then. Somehow it was much later than that when I finally left for our walk. After about a mile, Bentley decided that she was done, and I had to pull her a good bit to change her mind about the rest of the walk.
- Reagan and Graham went to work at one, and Anderson left for work around 4:30 with Campbell and Keaton. All three of them had soccer games to ref tonight so that gave them something fun to do this evening.
- Anderson picked up our supper on the way home-we all had free sandwiches from ChickFilA. Anderson made Campbell walk into the store to claim our 7 orders. We were all waiting for them to arrive home. Robby gave Whitman his sandwich, but since it was a spicy sandwich Whitman was not too big of a fan. He ate it, but he said that he didn't want one of those again. Actually, I don't think that I do either-that was still a little spicy for me as well.
- We did get Reagan's senior pictures today so that was fun. It is getting real around here that we have a senior!
April 21, 2024-Adult's Only Camping Trip
There wasn't much camping for me today. I was up and headed to church before 8:30 this morning. Robby was around a little longer while he packed up all the stuff and even managed to have some breakfast before heading home.
He brought the camper home, emptied the food and started the laundry before meeting the rest of us at Grannymom's house. The kids had woken up here, and I parked just as they pulled into a parking spot this morning. They all sat in their spots with only Keaton and Whitman sitting with me. Robby was gone this week, and I was gone last week (worship care)-we better make it to church together next week or people will start to talk,
Whitman went with the 4th and 5th graders to his life group today. They went to a nursing home and worked with the people there to paint a pot and make a flower. Two different people came up to me to tell me how well he did. They said that he found some man, and they just sat painting their pot and talking the whole time. It made my momma heart pretty proud.
All of us except for Whitman then went to Grannymom and Grandpa's house for lunch. We couldn't stay too long today because Keaton, Campbell, and I had a baby shower to go to. We picked up one of Keaton's friends on the way.
The shower was cute-they had pickles as part of the food since I guess pregnant women usually like pickles. (I never did, but that's just what I hear.) At first I didn't think I was going to stay long nor find anyone to visit with, but soon I realized that I had been standing around chatting for 2 hours.
Reagan and Robby filled up the cars with gas on their way home before Robby had to make the rounds to pick up Whitman and drop some others off. Soon Reagan, Anderson, and Graham all headed back to church to join the girls and the other youth for Collide Night this evening.
When I came home, I worked on the camper some while Robby worked in the yard. I eventually moved to trying to straighten the house and fold the hugest loads of laundry I have ever seen!
When it was over, Reagan went to play pickleball, and the rest of us went to the Wilson's house to eat leftovers for our Sunday night supper. We didn't stay incredibly long because I was having trouble staying awake-I think I might be becoming an insomniac because I am so tired I won't even be able to read tonight.
April 20, 2024-Adult's Only Camping Trip
We all woke up around 6 this morning, and most of the kids were awake when I went to check. I was kind of quiet in the boys' room because the plan was for Whitman to sleep as long as he could this morning. He had set his alarm to wake up before Nonna came to take him to Keaton's soccer game later in the morning.
Soon, Campbell, Keaton, and Anderson left for soccer. The weather was pretty overcast, so we knew that they might not play the whole day, but they arrived and went to work getting things ready. Reagan, Graham, Robby, and I left about 10 minutes later.
Our first stop was at Raymar so I could help them get the coffee and hot chocolate ready. Graham also jumped out of our car and joined the other. Then Robby and I joined the others to head to Ouachita for early registration for Reagan.
Campbell, Keaton, and Graham worked the concessions stand during the first game. Then they played quickly through the second game with Graham, Keaton, and Campbell reffing a game. Apparently, one grown up man didn't like some of Campbell's calls along with the calls from the other teenage girl ref and let them know it. Two take aways from that: nothing tells more about a man's character than how he acts on a field or court...and nothing makes a dad madder than someone being ugly to his daughter.
By the end of the second game at Raymar it was starting to rain, so they cancelled all of the games. The kids quickly helped pick up and headed home. Nonna had asked about picking up Whitman still, but I told her to not worry about it.
I had actually been texting Whitman while we were in Arkadelphia. He wasn't answering my texts, so Robby checked the cameras and could tell that he must still be asleep. Whitman had set his alarm wrong and was a bit panicked when he did wake up thinking he had missed Nonna. Eventually, he saw my texts explaining soccer being cancelled.
A bit later, he text me to say that he was going to take Bentley to potty. I told him that if she wasn't whining then it was fine. However, seconds later he text me a few pictures of where she had been sick. Poor thing-her tummy must have been so upset! I tried to text him through cleaning things up, but I knew the others were almost home.
They soon arrived, and bless those children's hearts-they went right to work. Anderson and Campbell worked forever on the carpet, Keaton lit candles and help Campbell give Bentley a bath. They all took turns taking her out to make sure that she was done. It was a mess, but they had it all cleaned when I came home.
Reagan, Robby, and I started out in a large group, and then the kids went off to make their schedules. I think that she really enjoyed the day and is getting super excited about the upcoming school year. She made her schedule, and it looks like it is a really good schedule.
Then right as it was over for us, we were able to meet Reagan's roommate. She seemed super nice, and I think that they are really going to work out well with each other. They took pictures of a few dorm rooms and made some plans.
We ate in the cafeteria, and then headed home. At home, I made sure everything was clean from Bentley's incident. Then we ran to Sams for me to pick up some desserts for tonight. It was chilly outside so I was not in a huge hurry to come back to the campsite.
Supper tonight was tacos so of course it was pretty delicious. Right now I am stuffed, but that is probably form all of the desserts that I have eaten today! It was cold tonight, and I really should invest in some super warm clothes to take camping!
April 19, 2024-Adult's Only Camping Trip
When we went to bed last night, the storm was not far behind. The rain was super hard, and of course it sounded even louder in the camper. Campbell said that it rained here, but not crazy bad. Robby and I listened to the storm until we finally went to sleep.
It was a restful sleep, but of course I had to go to the bathroom three different times in the middle of the night-maybe I should stop drinking so much water. We woke up and eventually headed out to breakfast-Robby made pancakes, egg in the hole, and sausage. I forgot to pack chocolate chips for the pancakes-and I decided that I do like pancakes with out chocolate chips.
The day kind of went by quickly at the campsite. Robby and I walked Bentley three miles with Annie and some other campers. We also gridled up some poundcake and blueberries for our afternoon snack.
I don't think that a whole lot happened at the house today. Keaton made chocolate chip cookie bars. Reagan went to work. Graham's ear has been bothering him so he skipped out on work today. Campbell and Keaton spent some time on the trampoline and even did some drawing today.
All of the Rock Creek campers gathered tonight for supper-hamburgers and hot dogs. Then we sat around visiting and watching the Hogs play baseball. When the game was over, we finally put things away and headed home.
But other than that, it was a fairly slow and relaxing day for all of us. It is now after 11-Robby and I came home to sleep tonight since we all have to leave so early in the morning.
April 18, 2024-Adult's Only Camping Trip
Robby started our camping trip last night in Maumelle so he woke up there while the rest of us woke at home. I could hear that someone was up fairly early this morning. I thought that it was Whitman, but I couldn't figure out why he would be in the school room so early.
When I did get out of bed, I was surprised to see that it was Anderson awake early. He was already sitting in the living room eating his breakfast and working on his school. No one else was awake, and it took me a while to wake up Whitman and the girls.
Soon we were finishing school for the day, and much to Whitman's disappointment, we even did spelling before lunch. I also took Keaton and Campbell to buy some candy for a birthday party that Keaton has to go to Saturday.
When we were there, Keaton picked her out some candy and Campbell did the same so we left with quite a bag of candy. Campbell decided that she wanted to drive home so she did that-she is steadily improving, but it is just always a little hard to ride as your baby drives a car.
I soon headed out to Maumelle-and it wasn't long after that that Anderson went to Raymar to paint the fields and get ready for practice tonight. Reagan and Graham also went to Raymar to take pictures tonight so three Dennie kids were earning a pay check this evening which is great.
Last night going to practice, Anderson hydroplaned when he was stopping. It was not a big deal, but big enough for him to come home and tell me. Tonight, Reagan was pulled over for not stopping at a stop sign on the way home (the one at the curve where we kind of check for cars and then just go). Thankfully, she just got a warning, but hopefully both of them learned a lesson over the last few days. However, my heard finds all of this hard to take-again, my babies are driving.
Robby cooked pork chops tonight on the blackstone as well as Hawaiian bread. I did make the mashed potatoes-just from a bag though! We intended to have blueberries and pound cake for dessert, but we didn't get the pound cake out of the freezer so we will just do that tomorrow for lunch.
We sat around and visited this evening and even walked Bentley fairly late tonight. It is almost midnight, and I am just about to take a shower and settle in to read a little bit.
April 17, 2024
- This Wednesday seemed to fly by. I slept in a little this morning, but I was still able to rally the troops and start on school before 8:40 so I definitely call that a win. I think that we just have about 8 days of history left so that makes my heart super happy.
- Everyone finished their work at a pretty decent time even Whitman who now does 2 and a half things from his list before taking a 5 minute break. Some how this works for him, and he manages to finish his school work before 12 or even before 11:30 on some days so I can really not say anything.
- I spent a good deal of time reading this afternoon, plus I tried to do a few things to get ready for next year. I wish that I could be as motivated about house cleaning as I am about planning for school things. I received one book in the mail today, and it just made me so happy. I'm just a book lover and not a mop or duster lover, but maybe someday.
- Soon Robby went to Maumelle Park with the camper and the dog. I'm heading out there tomorrow-it is always the case, but when you are busy, you are just super busy. This weekend we have a jillion and one things happening-even overlapping-so tomorrow, I have to make a schedule for everyone.
- Reagan and Graham came home from work and were only home a bit before Reagan and the girls left again. They went to church early for Reagan's d-group, and my car came next. After church, Anderson and Campbell went to ChickFilA-while they were there, Keaton had Campbell buy her a kid's meal-and bless it if some girl didn't think the bag was trash and put her ice cream in it. Campbell was able to salvage the nuggets and a few fries, but poor Campbell was bothered by this and Keaton was disappointed.
April 16, 2024
- This day has just been a little bit uncertain-the silly rain just made things a bit crazy around here. Graham was supposed to go to Raymar this afternoon to help again with pictures during practice. However, pictures were cancelled because of the threat of weather, but for most of the afternoon pictures were still going to happen.
- Reagan was also going to work pictures, but first she had to go to her other job for an hour. Since by this time pictures were cancelled, she even stayed a little bit longer there. Reagan had plans to meet quite a few friends to play pickleball tonight, and she is there now, but the weather made those plans pretty uncertain-and they are probably pretty wet playing this evening.
- Anderson had to work practice tonight, so even though it was raining here, he headed to the field before it was officially cancelled. He did stay there until practice was supposed to start to tell people that it was cancelled, but once people drove up and saw an empty field, they realized it pretty quickly.
- Keaton would have had her practice tonight, but since it was cancelled she was disappointed. Campbell was also going to go to practice tonight so her plans were changed as well. That was fine though because I used both of them to help with supper tonight-we just had chicken and beef tacos along with cheese dip and black beans for our supper.
- Everyone ate, and then Reagan left for her outing. The rest of us settled into our spots for the evening. I don't think that tomorrow is supposed to be rainy, but hopefully rain on Thursday or Saturday does not cancel any soccer.
- Robby ran some errands today so I filled up the camper fridge, and I was able to do a little bit of summer school planning. Oooh, I also received a book in the mail that was exactly what I wanted and it was less than 10 dollars. I was thrilled with my bargain.
- Now, I think I am going to eat myself some ice cream tonight or maybe some hot chocolate-it is still kind of hot chocolate weather maybe.
April 15, 2024
- Our school day was pretty much like most today, except we had people come and give our air conditioners a tune up. I didn't think that this would take long, so three hours later when men were still outside the window or walking around the house, it became a bit odd.
- If they actually did any good giving those air conditioners a tune up, then they should last for a few more years-though now I just jinxed us for sure. I eventually had to fuss at Whitman as he played farting noises on his ipad while the worker man was on the other side of a door.
- School was finished on time around here, and then I did a little bit of work on my computer. Not real work, but at least I was trying to be productive. I eventually started to take a walk, but then I was afraid that the worker men would need to talk to Robby and since he was on the phone, I stayed around the house for a few more minutes-poor Bentley was so confused.
- Reagan and Graham went work this afternoon, and then they ended up at Raymar to take team pictures. That was good for them since they earned a few extra hours. While they were gone, we took Anderson to get his hair cut.
- Then we went to eat-Robby and I split chicken fried chicken along with baked potatoes, but the rolls! If I could just make Texas Roadhouse Rolls we would never have go out again-actually, I think that there would no reason to leave the house ever again.
- Everyone is back home now, and quite a few of us are on the couch watching a tv show. Campbell and Whitman are having their ice cream, but I am still pretty full from supper.
April 14, 2024
- Campbell and I had worship care this morning so we missed big church. Then it was Sunday school time. Our children's department had pancakes so that was fun-plus it kept us busy passing out pancakes and all of the toppings for everyone.
- Then we headed to lunch at Nonna and Pops' house. They had bbq along with pink pineapple-which none of us had ever tried before. We ate and visited some before heading home.
- Robby watched some of the Masters this afternoon, but I just napped. Then it was time for everyone but Whitman to leave the house. I am so looking forward to next year when he has things to do on Sunday nights.
- Graham and Anderson left first for Rock Creek, then Robby and I left with Campbell and Keaton for their life groups-20 minutes away from each other-and finally Reagan left to go to her life group. After Robby and I dropped off the girls, we ran to Arbys to pick up a free sandwich.
- Then we went to Old Navy to buy some polo shirts for the boys since they were on sale today. I bought both of the big boys two different shirts-and dang it, if I didn't buy each of them a repeat shirt. Oh well, I will exchange them hopefully for another color that they might wear. At least I did good with Whitman's shirt that I bought.
- We then picked up Keaton before meeting Campbell since she rode home with someone else-otherwise, Keaton would have been picked up super late so that helped a ton. The boys made it home before we did.
- After dropping off the girls and all of our purchases, we went to the Wilson's house for a few minutes to visit. We stayed there until 10, and now Reagan is on her way home, and I'm going to herd all of these people to bed.
April 13, 2024
- When everyone went to bed last night, I told everyone to set their alarms. Anderson wasn't awake by 6:30 so I went to his room and unfortunately, was standing over him when he did wake up. Of course, he jumped when he saw me. I do think that helped wake him up though.
- We were out the door before 6:50 this morning. Anderson was the only one working this morning so he certainly used Keaton and Campbell's help. Anderson and Campbell rode around in the gator setting things up while Keaton carried box after box. I sat in the car and read, but after watching Keaton carrying about 20 boxes, I got out of the car to see if I could help do anything.
- By then, Anderson had most things done so I worked on setting up the concession stand. It was warmer today so we didn't sell as much coffee and hot chocolate which is the most difficult thing to do.
- Again it was a busy Saturday-I guess Anderson clocked over 9 hours today, Keaton and Graham both reffed 3 games, Keaton played her game which again ended in a tie, and Reagan and Campbell both reffed 1 game. When there game was over, the three of us ran home to shower before heading to Star City.
- Keaton opted to stay and play her game today, but Campbell and Reagan came with me to Josh and Kyndall's wedding shower. It was a sweet little shower which we all enjoyed-the girls may have enjoyed seeing Shelley's dog more than the shower though. On our way home, we stopped at the Country Village Bakery to pick up some goodies-Campbell wanted a doughnut and Reagan opted for a apple fritter, and I bought 3 cinnamon rolls for people later. That made everyone super happy on the way home.
- We made it home about the time that the Raymar people did. Tearing down took a bit longer since it was just Anderson and the rest of the family who helped. We were all able to unload, and then most people headed to the shower.
- Robby and I heated up our leftovers for supper with plans to have our cinnamon roll in a little bit.
April 12, 2024
- Last night, I had to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night. I sat up and checked to see where the dog was. Sometimes she lays in the floor or right on the steps to the bathroom so I am always cautious about her location so she doesn't kill me in the middle of the night. I walked to the bathroom and Robby came around the corner out of the door. He was trying not to scare me, but I just about died of fright. I guess that I neglected to see where he was-maybe tonight I will have to check on his location and the dogs before I get out of the bed.
- After waking up this morning, I went right to work on my morning chores. I did a few of those before waking up Keaton and Whitman. They were pretty easy to wake up since they were going to pick strawberries this morning. Last night, as Whitman was going to bed, he asked when he was leaving "to go pluck strawberries."
- I woke Campbell up as well to see if she wanted to drive us there, but she declined. She actually acted like I was waking her up at the crack of dawn instead of 10 in the morning. I dropped off Keaton and Whitman at Nonna and Pops. Then I ran to Walgreens and the library.
- Anderson was downstairs when I came home. I came in the kitchen and unloaded all of the things in my hand. I was about to sit down with my book when I remembered that I had brought the dog with me. I'm sure Anderson thought that I was nuts when I ran out of the house to get Bentley.
- She could have possibly been made at me when I came out to get her. I opened the door and she just sat right where she was. She was in no hurry to leave the car so maybe she was enjoying it instead of pouting.
- Robby and I left soon to go and eat. We ate tons but we also brought home tons of food as well-half of a chicken pot pie, french fries, two buffalo chicken wraps, and half of a salad. Reagan went to town on some of the leftovers tonight. I plan on eating my chicken pot pie tomorrow, but I am still too stuffed for supper tonight-now, we did have some ice cream this evening, but that really doesn't count.
- Reagan and Graham went to work this afternoon. Robby did have to pick Graham up early because he had a birthday party to go to this evening. Anderson and he left around 5 and are still out and about. I know they are having a good time.
- The rest of us have had a pretty quiet evening. Robby and I are watching baseball, and I have done some reading, but I don't think that we have seen any of the kids since I made everyone's supper this evening.
April 11, 2024
- Wonderful, wonderful Thursday. People finished their school work at a decent time today-Whitman has started to do 2 and a half things, and then he will take a 5 minute break. Even with this, he still finished at a decent time.
- Whitman has also started doing all of his math sitting in the school room. Up until a few weeks ago, he would do his math sitting near me. When he did this, I could watch him work and check things as he went. Now, he brings me his math, and I have to check those two pages (like I do for everyone else.) He continues to do his math fairly oddly-writing as little as he can-only the answers even when I have to write out and work the problem to make sure that he is correct.
- I took Graham to take the Accuplacer math test today. This allows him to take college algebra as a concurrent class in the fall. He was so nervous on the way there-I thought it was because of the test but instead it was because he was worried about getting his hair cut afterwards.
- He was 3 points shy of the score that he needed. This made me super happy, but he was pretty discouraged. The test is only 10 dollars, and we can take it anytime we want so I am pretty sure that he will pass next time.
- The next stop was Walmart where I ran in and bought an assortment of items. Then we went and waited for Graham's haircut. I'm not sure why he does get nervous, but he was fine, and his haircut was fine too. I like to get my money's worth when you pay for a haircut, but when you have long shaggy hair, you really don't get a lot cut each time.
- We came home, and I did spelling with Whitman before taking Bentley on a walk. I had a bunch of small things to finish this afternoon so I rocked through them before sitting down to finish my book.
- Reagan did not have work today, but Anderson had to paint the fields and run practice tonight so he was gone most of the evening. I heated up sandwiches for everyone because I could get no burger takers.
- The Wilsons came over with cookies, and while we were visiting Campbell made brownies. Now Robby and I are watching the Masters reruns before we call it a night.
April 10, 2024
- Another school day and we are quickly ticking by on the number of school days left. I love school, but I also love the summer break (at first at least).
- We did all of our school work, and before I knew it everyone was finished. I was the only one left in my bedroom so I did my exercise video and then sat down and ate my lunch while reading. I'm not too sure why everyone finished their work early today, but it was a good for me.
- Graham and Reagan left for work at noon just as Robby returned with some drinks for some folks. I didn't do much this afternoon-I tried to be productive, but I ended up doing more reading than anything else.
- Before too long, it was time for Reagan, Campbell, and Keaton to go to church. I had to trim the back of Graham's hair before we left-he wanted me to trim it even though I assured him that we would get a hair cut this weekend.
- I then headed to church with the boys after our stop to the library. When church was over, the boys were outside playing basketball for a long while. We finally found them, and Anderson and Campbell headed to ChickFilA while we headed home.
- Robby had run some errands while we were gone, and he even had supper for us. We pretty much devoured everything that he had ready for us. Then Keaton went to work on her evening dessert while Robby and I are holding out for ice cream tonight!
April 9, 2024
- It was back to school today after our light day yesterday watching the eclipse. Things went pretty well and no tears were shed. Whitman never likes working with me in the afternoons for spelling, but I think that he is just teasing.
- Even though it was fairly wet today, the kids still spend some time on the trampoline. I kept Whitman busy this afternoon-not only did we do spelling, I had him wash and fold the towels, and then he helped me make some muffins. We had just started when Keaton walked down the stairs to make her muffin recipe. I tried to get her to make hers as well since I was giving some away, but she decided to wait until another day.
- Keaton was disappointed that soccer practice was cancelled, but it was still a fairly busy evening around here. I went to supper at a friend's house, and we stayed out entirely too late but had lots of fun. Reagan had her work this evening, and Robby left to eat supper himself and pick up some supper.
- The girls spent the evening doing their school for tomorrow. They like to try to get ahead the best that they can every night.
April 8, 2024
- For days I have neglected to mention the April fool's jokes that happened here. I quickly realized that it was April fools last week when I opened the fridge and first noticed that my dip was upside down. I figured that it had fallen and someone had just put it back incorrectly.
- It didn't take long for me to realize that instead, every single thing in the refrigerator had been turned upside down. Gallon of milk-upside down, every single condiment bottle-upside down. After fixing all of that, I was on guard for the rest of the day. So when Keaton and Whitman came grinning into my bedroom saying that there was water running out of the bathroom, my mind flew back to the exact image I had seen on the computer of bottles of water in shoes coming out of the bathroom.
- I went to double check though, and sure enough that is exactly what they did. I snicked to myself when they went to tell Robby. However, water running out of a bathroom here wouldn't be extremely out of the ordinary, so when Keaton told Robby, she immediately saw his face fall.
- Robby said that Keaton's reaction to his reaction alerted him that this might be a prank. However, he was certainly relieved to see that it was just an April fool's prank.
- Now we will fast forward to today-this was eclipse day so school was kind of limited. I woke people up at 9, and we started on school. I read some eclipse books and a chapter of our history book; then the kids started on their limited school work.
- Keaton went to a friend's house to watch the eclipse so she wasn't with us, but Anderson had a friend cover over. Robby ran some errands and come home to Whitman, Campbell, and I me sitting in the front yard. The boys all were playing some basketball-sometimes they would even play while wearing their eclipse glasses not being able to see a thing.
- Reagan came out just in time to see it all. Everyone was pretty impressed with the totality. Once it was over, the kids all quickly migrated back inside while Robby and I just sat outside and enjoyed the cooler weather. It was so interesting to me how the temperature changed during all of it.
- We had quite a few eclipse snacks to eat-Sunkise, starburst, milky way, star crunch, and cosmic brownies. The boys went to town on the Sonic burgers while the girls went to town on the snacks.
- I finished my book this afternoon, and then made some pasta for supper. Once we ate, I ran to pick up Keaton, and she had a good time at her friend's house all day long.
- Now the basketball game is on-the winner of our family bracket is between Reagan or Anderson. Reagan isn't watching the game, nor is Anderson. He is actually in the bonus room with Whitman watching Star Wars. This is their second night to go up there and watch a Star Wars movie.
- star wars
April 7, 2024
- This morning Reagan had to be at church pretty early, so instead of taking two cars we all left early with her. She also had to bring snacks for her Sunday school class so I was up early, early washing fruit to go along with the muffins that we made.
- After we dropped her off, the rest of us stayed in the van and went to pick up doughnuts for our breakfast. We all ate those as we drove back to church. Then we did the church thing-big church and Sunday school.
- Lunch was at Grannymom's house today, and she had pizza which always is a crowd favorite. After we finished eating and visiting, Robby ran into Lowes to pick up a weed eater. Then we all came home for a bit before people headed out again-Reagan went to her lifegroup while the others went to Rock Creek. Whitman had to stay at home with us, but I think that he didn't mind that at all.
- We all met back up at the Wilson's house for Sunday night supper. They had a clean out the fridge night so I had leftovers that I ate at their house the night before-they were still delicious. We even had some of Shannon's famous cheesecake again-actually, we cleaned the plate, and that was still delicious as well.
- Now, we are home planning tomorrow's school/eclipse activities. I have a few more things off my list to mark off before bed, but I don't think it will be long before I head that way.
April 6, 2024
- This morning was the first soccer day, and goodness it started early. Since bringing 3 cars there would have been silly, I rode with Anderson, Campbell, and Keaton this morning. Anderson had to be there at 7:15 to start work, and his sisters just like to come for fun.
- I hung out in the car until almost 8 and then went to start setting up the concession stand. The girls helped, but gracious that coffee pouring and hot chocolate making is tough. At 9, the rest of our crew arrived, and things became a little bit busy.
- Campbell and Reagan worked an hour in the concession stand while Keaton worked two. Whitman also did his time in the concession stand (he doesn't get camp money, but he gets candy) Graham reffed 4 games, Reagan and Anderson both did 3, and Keaton and Campbell both reffed 2 plus Keaton played a game. Her game ended in a tie-she did score one goal, and even though her team is pretty good, this game was tough, and I'm afraid that the other games will be as well.
- I will never get tired of watching the kids all grow up-it is so fun to see them doing their things. And I certainly enjoyed getting my picture of all of them wearing their ref shirts today. I have learned that if I want a picture, I get it immediately and don't wait until another day.
- This year there is one more soccer game each week, so it was after 3 when we made it home and after 4 when Anderson finally made it home. That makes for a much longer day for sure.
- Back at home, we started to notice just how red all of the kids were-my face is probably burned as well. Anderson came down wearing a red shirt after his shower, and I told him that he looked like a tomato. The weather was so nice today that I didn't really think about sunscreen-I had it with us, but never thought to use it
- Robby and I made muffins for Reagan's Sunday school snack tomorrow, and then we went to the Wilson's house for a little bit to watch some of the basketball game. We ate and visited for a while, but did come home to watch the last half of the second game.
- We leave for church early in the morning so I really better go to sleep early tonight-so maybe no reading for me!
April 5, 2024
- Anderson, Graham, and I left fairly early this morning for a preview day at Ouachita. Graham wasn't too thrilled about coming since he felt like he would be the only sophomore there. (He wasn't.) Anderson isn't stressed about college like Reagan seemed to be, but he is a pretty low key guy and isn't concerned about much.
- We decided that we would go to the school of business when it was time to divide by majors. Even if the college tour didn't help make up their minds about schools, maybe the talk from the business guy might have helped make up their mind about a major.
- The next part of the day we were split up so when the boys left I told them to save me a seat for lunch-they did, but we were at a table with all boys. The three other boys at the table had left their parents, but I sure did set myself down with all of that testosterone.
- We ended the day with a walking tour of the campus. We even went into the girls' dorm where I took a few pictures for Reagan to help plan her dorm room. When it was all over, we headed home with a stop at Sonic for drinks on the way.
- By this time, Reagan was already at work, but Robby met me with Keaton and Whitman at Urban Air. They were able to jump and do some of the fun things this afternoon. Then we picked up pizza and finally made it home. I was almost gone from the house for a full 12 hours so it was a fairly long day for me.
- We all ate, and now a few kids are on the trampoline, Robby is working, and I'm alone on the couch. If someone doesn't come in the living room pretty soon, I will probably have myself a nap.
April 4, 2024
(click for today's pictures)
- I was running a bit behind this morning, but we were still able to read most of our things. I did finish one more book so that is just leaving us the 20 or so library books that I just checked out and about 5 others books to read each morning. History is getting closer, but not close enough that I have started counting down the chapters. Today we read about the Korean war so surely there isn't that much history left-really, it is probably 18 more days of it. I probably should know for sure, because every night I peek ahead to see just how many pages of history I will read the next morning. I have to prepare myself mentally. (Next year, we go back to the first history book and those chapters are just 1 or maybe 2 pages instead of the 8-12 I read every day now.)
- The boys woke up fairly late, but everyone managed to get all of their things in today. The big event was Reagan had to do a speech-she has been doing them in the bonus room and filming them. However, today's speech was making something so she had to have the kitchen. This cause the whole house to shut down-we were all silently sneaking around for the hour that she practiced and then during the speech.
- And speaking of sneaking around-the neighbor lady probably wishes that her office was on a different side of their house-especially since the trampoline has now been moved. Not just does she see the trampoline, she also sees and hears our kids for at least 2 hours every day. And usually, it is not just one child out there (though today I walked through the kitchen and Campbell appeared to be napping on the trampoline) but it is most of them. And I do love my children but they are not quiet at all!
- Anderson went to work fairly early so he could paint the fields and then be there for practice. Campbell, Robby, and I went to eat tonight and then met Anderson at Kroger to get gas. We also found some eclipse snacks for Monday. We are going to party hard around here!
April 3, 2024
- We did our reading this morning, and as I'm reading every day, I always listen to make sure that Anderson and Graham do get up. They usually don't have to get up until 9:30, but today Graham leaves for work early so he needs to be up and moving pretty quickly. However, much to my surprise today, Anderson was the first one downstairs this morning. He isn't usually the quickest to wake up in the mornings.
- Everyone did their school work, and when ever I would walk through the living room people were piled on the couch or even in a chair working. They all finished fairly quickly today so I had some time before lunch to mark a few things off of my list.
- Graham and Reagan left for work, and then soon afterwards I took Bentley on a walk. It was much cooler today than yesterday, but much windier. I did spelling with Whitman but I had to call him off of the trampoline to come in. He didn't mind since we had already set a time for spelling.
- Reagan and Graham zoomed in from work, and after I made her a peanut butter and jelly sandwich they were out the door to the car again. This time though Campbell, Keaton, and Anderson went with them. The youth had something special tonight so people were already getting there early.
- We all did the church thing, and the big kids were late getting out, and then Reagan chatted some and so did I so we were super late getting home. Campbell and Anderson went to ChickFilA so they are just now getting in for the evening.
April 2, 2024-Happy 11th Birthday Whitman!
- Since today was a birthday, I rolled out of bed early enough to make chocolate chip muffins. They were ready about during the middle of our morning reading. I had to shorten our reading today since Keaton was leaving early to run some errands with Robby. (This is the third day in a row we haven't been able to do all of our morning reading-when we finish that history book is when we can think about taking a summer break so I definitely have motivation.)
- Whitman zoomed through his school and then sat and read for 40 minutes. While he did that, I helped the boys with some of their school, and I started pulling out some school work for everyone to do his summer.
- It wasn't too long before Robby took the birthday boy and Campbell and Keaton to see a movie. Robby said that Whitman ate a huge amount of popcorn-he does love him some popcorn.
- When the came home, Grannymom and Grandpa came over to bring Whitman his presents. While they were there, Grandpa helped Robby hang a swing in the yard-Grandpa gave instructions, Robby climbed the ladder, and Anderson held the ladder.
- Just about when the swing was finished, Nonna and Pops came over to bring their presents for Whitman. Since all of the grandparents were there, we pulled out Whitman's birthday cake and sang Happy Birthday before eating cake.
- Soon afterwards, it was time for soccer practice. Campbell went along just for fun, Anderson worked an hour, and I went along as well because I thought that weather was going to nice. Today I walked Bentley and even brought her home early because I thought that she was going to get hot-she was panting and her tongue was hanging out.
- However, just a few hours later at soccer, we were absolutely freezing. I sat in the concession stand most of the time so I could stay warm-Raymar is the windiest place in the city for sure. We came home and heated up warm food to eat for supper. Robby and I had a can of soup!
- Now most of the kids are trying a Cadbury egg for the first time, and then we will probably watch some tv.
April 1, 2024
- I have not done a good job lately in planning my school mornings. Thursday was Reagan's teeth and today was her eyes. Her appointment was at 9, and her eye appointment was definitely a lot easier than the teeth. A few years ago, she needed glasses, which she never wore, but this time her eyes are just fine.
- On the way home, a few kids had free ChickFilA biscuits, and I picked up Reagan a smoothie from McDonalds. It was also free, but today is the last day of special Reagan things. She is tad bit swollen still and even has a little bit of a bruise. Reagan is still being very cautious about what she does eat though.
- When I came home, most of school was done for the people here. I just had a pile of math to check. Whitman understood his and just had to fix one problem, and Campbell and Keaton each had one page that they were not sure about that we had to work on.
- Since I didn't get to read with the little 3 this morning, I decided that I would still read 3 library books to them this afternoon-we ended up doing that on the trampoline. I guess that if we knew how much use the trampoline would have gotten right up next to the house, we would have moved it a long time ago.
- People have been out there all day long-even Anderson has been out there with Campbell, Keaton, and Whitman while I was on my walk. And I do believe that Campbell is out there right now. Not only have they jumped today, but there was also a big football game that happened this evening.
- Campbell did spend a good deal of time today working on Whitman's birthday cake. He said that he wanted a chocolate rectangle cake so that is what she made him. She worked so hard on it, and it really does look good.
- Reagan and Graham went to work today. I think that they were pretty busy while they were there. Before they came home, Robby and I left to go and grab some supper. We came home with a few leftovers for the kids so we pulled out everything in the fridge and went to town heating things up. I was pretty pleased that we made a major dent in things-the fridge had gotten a little bit crazy.
- I am now cuddled up on the couch watching women play basketball. A few folks have had their showers, and I'm sure that someone will be asking about the cookies in the kitchen.
March 31, 2024-Easter 2024
- Since we didn't have to leave for church until 10:20 this morning, we had quite a bit of time this morning. I especially needed that time because there were two loads of laundry for me to fold waiting on me. I also had not even gotten the Easter baskets down from the bonus room, and even with the extra time, I was scrambling to get myself reading in time for church.
- The kids Easter baskets grow less and less exciting. They all received socks or underwear plus some candy and a drink. Even though the baskets weren't too exciting, there are two children who definitely needed socks-Campbell has almost none and sneaks mine, Keatons, or Reagans and when Whitman gets a string on his socks, he sits and pulls it until he has one large hole in them.
- Reagan is much less swollen today but still stayed home. That worked out well for me because she was able to put the corn casserole in the oven and had it warm when we rolled in from church.
- I was kind of surprised that all of the kids sat with us during church. I had assumed that they would have found their friends, but I think that most people went to the earlier service.
- We made it home right after everyone else arrived at the house. They still had to wait on us to bake the rolls. Of course we had plenty of food-my favorites were the spinach dip and Dana's broccoli salad. My fridge is getting pretty full of leftovers from today and from the past few days as well so that will be tomorrow's supper-those meals thrill the kids!
- After lunch, we had our grand Easter egg hunt-except this year it was very scaled down. Instead of 200 or more eggs to stuff and hide, this year we just stuffed 7-you found an egg and that is the one that you got. Each one had varying amounts of money in them, and honestly, I think that everyone was more pleased with the cash than the candy.
- Everyone stuck around and visited for a little bit after the egg hunt. Most of the kids were watching the basketball game as well. When everyone did leave, I quickly did all of the dishes and then ended up on the couch to see the last of the basketball game.
- I had a short nap, and then the boys left for Rock Creek. Afterwards, Robby and I had a shop and came home with food for everyone plus some more applesauce for Reagan. While we were gone, Campbell, Keaton, and Whitman spent the whole time outside on the trampoline. Now everyone has eaten, and they have begun their traditional Sunday night complaining about having to do school tomorrow!
March 30, 2024
- We will begin with our daily Reagan update: she is about the same today as yesterday. I told Robby that I was surprised that she was still as swollen today. One side of her mouth looks normalish, but the other is super swollen and hasn't really gone done much. I think that she is in a bit of pain as well mainly because the inside of her mouth is all scratched up.
- She is eating more solid-ish food-tonight she had some rice and tiny bits of chicken. While we were working in the yard today, she even brought Bentley out once or twice to check on our progress. I don't think that she is planning on going to church tomorrow, but hopefully she is less swollen. She is still faithfully taking her medicine and now putting heat on her check so maybe tomorrow will be better.
- Graham was the first one to wake this morning-he had to be at work at 7:30 this morning to go and be the Easter bunny. He helped set up at one place, and then put on his costume and hopped to a nearby house. There he took pictures with the kids, with families, and also had an Easter egg hunt!
- The bunny was well compensated for his work today. Robby quickly volunteered to be the bunny tomorrow if they needed another bunny. Anderson left a bit after Graham and put in 3 hours at Raymar since some teams were having practices there today. When they both made it home, we did figure out that the bunny made 300 percent more money than Anderson today!
- After I took Graham to work this morning, I climbed back in the bed, and Robby and I went back to sleep for a good while. We then woke up, and he headed outside. I worked inside for a little bit, but then came outside to help.
- Eventually, Keaton and Campbell were recruited and then Anderson and Whitman. Graham showed up just in time to help us with the last 30 minutes of work. Robby mowed and cleaned up the flower beds.
- Then with the kids we worked on some leaves-so, so many leaves. There is about 5 more days of leaf work, but slow and steady! Anderson doesn't mind walking the leaves to the bottom of the hill, but everyone loves taking them to the woods if they can drive/ride on the tractor. So that is what happened quite a bit.
- The last thing that we had to do today was move the trampoline. The girls have been wanting to move the trampoline closer to the house. I'm sure the neighbors will come home and will not be pleased, but the trampoline is so close to our house that the boys could jump out their window and bounce on it.
- The net was broken from a tree branch that feel earlier this year, and that tree also punctured a small hole in the bouncy part. Thankfully, when we bought the trampoline there was a huge mix up and we were given one box of parts twice-we were given the box that contained the bouncy part and the padding around the edge. We did take off the net, which thrilled the girls-normally, the leaves fall in the trampoline and then there is no way to clean it-now that won't happen.
- Once we moved the trampoline, Campbell, Keaton, Robby, and I cleaned up and headed for some errands. We had to return some pants of Robby's at Costco, he got gas, then he dropped the girls off and I at the Gucci Goodwill. Keaton found a sweater and tshirt, Campbell got a sweatshirt, and I found a flannel shirt that looks perfectly cozy to wear around a campfire.
- Then we ran by Taco Bell because the girls had free tacos, then Robby had a mystery shop and brought home some chicken and rice and then we bought hamburgers for the boys, and finally we returned home!
- So far, the trampoline move has been a good move-the kids have spent more time out there. Campbell ate supper on the trampoline and then a bit afterwards, all the kids except Reagan sat and jumped on it. While they did this Robby cleaned the kitchen floor. We used to steam mop the floors all the time, but at some point we stopped-maybe Covid though I'm not sure why we would have stopped then.
- This is the most work we have done lately, and we are pretty beat tonight! Basketball is on, cookies are in the oven, and most people have had their showers so we have a little bit left to enjoy the evening.
March 29, 2024
- Wisdom teeth update-Reagan has done pretty good with her teeth. She is pretty swollen on one side of her face and said that the inside of her mouth is pretty torn up. We are trying to stick closely to the pain medicine schedule along with the antibiotic, but those each are supposed to be every 6 hours.
- I did wake her up this morning to take her meds, but I'm sure not going to wake her up in the middle of the night. A bit ago, she asked if she needed to keep taking the medicine even though she felt fine (another day for the pain meds just to be sure, and she has to finish the antibiotic), but I'm glad that she feels well.
- We started this morning with me taking Campbell and Keaton to Nonna's house. They helped her decorate the Easter Bunny cake. They also managed to get lunch in as well. While they were gone, we also took Graham to work. Usually, he goes to work with Reagan, but Robby and I took him today since she skipped.
- Robby and I ran a few errands-Kohls for a return, Costco for fun (but we did get a sweater for Reagan and pants for Robby), Kroger for a pick up for Robby and a run in for me. Then we brought home a smoothie for Reagan.
- Nonna and Pops had brought the girls home, and a bit later in the afternoon Graham finished work early so Robby ran to get him.
- This evening Robby moved his griddle to the back patio to stay and his smoker under the shed over hang to stay. I them moved the furniture that was under the shed to the patio. Then he made eggs in the hole and pancakes for supper. I also tried to make s'mores pie-but he ran out of propane so we moved those inside the house to the air fryer. (It was just an experiment-the s'mores pies were not bad....nor were they really good either.)
- Graham, Keaton, Campbell, and Whitman went outside tonight and played some football before coming in to watch some basketball. Tomorrow is a busy day around here so really we should get some sleep, but I would bet that we will be up pretty late tonight.
March 28, 2024
- This morning started off pretty early. I took Reagan to have her wisdom teeth done. Neither one of us really knew what to expect. We waited in the waiting room for a few minutes, and then they called her back.
- I didn't think that I was supposed to go, but I went with her as they hooked her up to ekgs, blood pressure, and all the things. The doctor came in and gave her the iv-this really hurt her, and I thought that she was going to lose it then.
- She later said that as soon as they gave that to her, she started to get sleepy. I then went to the waiting room, and within 20 minutes they were coming to get me. (My friend's teeth only took 15 minutes so I was expecting a short time.)
- I went to the back, and Reagan was in another room. Her face was so full of gauze that she looked ridiculous, and she could not talk at all. It took me a good while to understand anything she said-I don't think that everything she did say made sense for the first few minutes. She had the hiccups at one point, but then she didn't remember having them. Anther time I asked her how she came into the room she was in, and she said that she walked. Then she said she didn't know. Later she thought she came in a wheelchair.
- She then started to text me-some made sense but the first little bit it was tough. We then waited for about 40 minutes for the doctor to come in and talk to us. He gave us all of the rules, and they wheeled Reagan to the car.
- By this time Reagan said that she felt like she could drive home, but I told her I didn't mind at all. We picked up a smoothie on the way home, but we really should have picked up her medicine. By the time we did get her medicine, she was in quite a bit of pain. After her first pain pill, I think that she has been doing pretty good since then.
- She started off pretty nauseous, but had some smoothie and tomato soup pretty early. Later she moved on to oatmeal, and tonight she has been eating mashed potatoes and appleasauce. Her face is a little bit swollen, and right now (10:30) she said that one side really does hurt. She will probably take one of the big pain pills tonight at bedtime.
- While we were gone, the others woke up (with Robby's help) and started on school. They were pretty much all done by the time that we did made it home. I checked all of the math, and then later worked on spelling with Whitman.
- I think that Reagan had a nap this afternoon, and so did I! Anderson and Keaton went to Raymar this afternoon. He had to work the practices tonight, and Keaton went along for the evening. She said that it was warm out there-even though I have froze all night.
- I had supper with the homeschool moms this evening, and I even left way before it was time to eat. I I ran to the Nike store along with Walmart before sitting in the car for little bit just being quiet. Robby ran to pick up a pizza for all the kids and applesauce for Reagan. When I did come home, most everyone was awake and watching the basketball game.
- Hopefully Reagan can sleep well tonight and wakes up without any pain!
March 27, 2024
- Today was another school day-at least Whitman didn't fall sound asleep and start snoring like a man while I read this morning to everyone. He did that yesterday! I probably just should have let him sleep because I am sure that he operates at a sleep deficit.
- Graham and Reagan went to work at noon, and Anderson left a little bit after them to go and paint the fields at Raymar. While it was quite in the house, I walked Bentley outside for a little bit and listened to my book.
- When I came in, Whitman and I did spelling and really before I knew it, Reagan and Graham came blowing in from work. She saw some of her senior pictures-I asked her about them but she told me I would just have to wait.
- They weren't home very long before they left again with Anderson, Keaton, and Campbell. Tonight was the referee meeting so they had to be there early. Whitman and I didn't leave for a few more minutes, but we had to leave early too so I could run in the library and get some eclipse glasses.
- Tonight at church Whitman and all of the rest of the kids had an Easter egg hunt. It was organized chaos, but I think that they all had fun. Anderson and Campbell stopped at ChickFIlA on the way home while the rest of us came home to pizza rolls that Robby made. I was starving so I couldn't wait until they cooled so of course I burned my tongue.
- Meanwhile, Reagan is eating and drinking everything in the house-she gets her wisdom teeth out tomorrow morning so she is fueling up now.
March 26, 2024
- We did the school thing early this morning-actually, I keep getting up later and later which makes Campbell happy. Last night she begged that we could start school later-we did though it was just about 4 minutes later than usual.
- Tomorrow, I hope to start right on time since I won't be able to read with them Thursday morning-that is the big wisdom teeth day for Reagan. Actually, one of our friends was only in the back for about 15 minutes so maybe I will be home for some of the usual reading time.
- I ran to Walmart and Kroger this afternoon with Keaton and Campbell. Our mission was to get the Easter basket things. I think that we did pretty good-I still have to buy something for Anderson and possibly for Reagan. The baskets are pretty light this year, but seriously, my people are need in nothing.
- When I came home, Whitman and I did spelling together-he acts like he hates it and even did half of it while fake sobbing. I honestly think that he really does like it! At least I hope he does, because we have lots of spelling time in our future.
- Reagan went to work this afternoon and just about right after Keaton, Robby, and I left for the first soccer practice. I decided that I would go too and take Bentley so she could remember how to act around people. She did fine, but she still has a lot of work to do to be a perfect dog.
- Keaton's soccer team looks pretty good this year so that will be fun. For some reason, we all do seem to enjoy the soccer season-though Graham was trying to get out of reffing games this year. It won't happen though.
- We didn't make it home until 8, and Robby is working, and Keaton is anxiously awaiting to watch on of our tv shows. Campbell made brownies while we were all gone, so that is going to be my next sanck!
March 25, 2024
- It is kind of nice to get back into a routine for sure. Well, at least I think so but I am not so sure that the kids agreed with me. I seriously love doing school at home even though I am at the point during the year where I am done with this year and ready to start all of the new things for next year.
- I tip toed in the boys' room to quietly wake up Whitman. He sleeps with his blanket wrapped tightly around his head. This morning when I touched his blanket to pull it down, I heard him giggle. He was already on his ipad. I asked him when he woke up, and he said he thought at 2. I don't think he really woke up at 2 or maybe he just did briefly.
- If you remember, on Saturday, Whitman felt pretty rough, but then rebounded that night. Yesterday, he just had cold like symptoms, and today he has even less. However, the kid has played a game, wrestled, chased people around the house, and even did most of his school work by himself-not only has he not felt bad, but he has been full of energy-which is definitely not his normal.
- Even though he has felt better, this afternoon he was standing right beside me looking out the window. I was quietly reading until he started jumping up and down and screaming. Of course, I start yelling "what? what?" He stumbles backwards pointing to a wasp on the ground and shouted "that." There was a wasp by the window, and it stung him through his pants. I just asked and he said that it was pretty much gone.
- Graham and Reagan went to work this afternoon. They came home saying that the finished it all so that is good-just as long as there is more to do on Wednesday. This afternoon I did manage to get Keaton, Anderson, and Whitman to play a game with me. We have had this game for years, but we never could figure out how to play it. Today though we learned, and it was fun.
- Graham had his Dgroup tonight so Robby and I dropped him off. Then we ran two places to pick up food for all of us-Robby gave the kids a choice and surprisingly everyone picked the same thing. It was fairly late when we did get home-Reagan even had her bowl, napkin, spoon, and cup filled with ice ready to go.
- I don't think that basketball is one-or at least no one has turned it on the tv in the living room. Robby is working in his office, and it is just Whitman and I in the quiet living room.
March 24, 2024-Spring Break Weekend at Toad Suck
We slept a bit later this morning, and then Robby got up and turned on the church house for a little bit. We watched some and then started working on picking up. Robby and I took a walk with Bentley around one loop this morning, but it was super chilly so we moved quickly.
Then we went to work-Robby had his cooking things up, and there were things for me to grab as well. I would put something up outside and then go inside to straighten things. Reagan and Graham rode home with me, and maybe because they had both just woken up, but there was little conversation happening. Goodness, I tried, but other than a few grunts, I got nothing.
We made it home, and everyone went to town unloading things. The kids all grabbed their clothes, and then came back for a few more trips. It didn't take long at all for things to be out of the camper. I came in and put up things and then went back out to start cleaning.
It wasn't too long until I left with Whitman. He had a birthday party to go to at Raymar this afternoon. They played capture the flag for a little bit and had cake. After presents, I grabbed Whitman and we headed home.
We have done at least 5 loads of laundry tonight, and I would like to be able to do two more before we go to bed. Keaton didn't have long to rest this afternoon because she had to make cookies for her life group tonight. Reagan had her life group later than usual, but the boys and Campbell skipped Rock Creek tonight. I guess they just wanted one more relaxing evening before school starts back tomorrow.
Robby picked up Keaton, and then he and I went to the Wilson's house for a little bit tonight. We visited and planned another camping trip before Robby and I came home and started herding everyone towards bed.
March 23, 2024-Spring Break Weekend at Toad Suck
I'm sure I say it quite a bit, but our mattress in the camper, which I didn't think we needed, is just divine. Robby can get up and go to the bathroom, and I have no idea. I usually still wake up and hear him, but I have to throw my arm on his side to see if it is him that is gone. We both sleep so well on it-now watch, we won't tonight! Hopefully, I didn't jinx us, but our mattress is one of the best things about camping.
My alarm went off around 9 this morning so we could get up and start cooking breakfast around 10. We weren't moving too quickly, but we brought our stuff to the Wilson's camper and started on breakfast. Robby made egg in the holes, chocolate chip pancakes, and bacon. It was pretty chilly at 43 degrees when we started so I spent a good deal of time supervising Robby cook so I could be right by the warm grill.
After breakfast, we cleaned up a little bit, and then we headed to walk a nearby trail. When we found the start of the trail behind a Walmart, I was a little concerned about what we were embarking on. However, it was a neat little trail that was about 3 and a half miles one way. The trail was super nice and just meandered through neighborhoods in Conway.
Anderson, Campbell, and Whitman paused at a playground, but surprisingly, they pretty much caught back up with us. We didn't walk the whole trail, but did walk a total of 4 miles today. By the time that we were walking back, we realized that Whitman wasn't feeling the greatest so we let him and Campbell pause at the playground, and we picked them up when we made it back to the car.
So Whitman, who knows? He definitely felt bad today. After we picked him and Campbell up from the playground, we went to Sonic where Robby bought everyone a big drink, and since it was also a mystery shop, he got a hamburger which Graham and Whitman both wanted to split.
Whitman didn't drink any of his drink nor did he eat his half of the hamburger. He even took a good 2 hour nap-Robby had noticed that he didn't eat any of his breakfast nor did he eat any of his supper tonight. However, by the time we built a fire and pulled out the s'mores, Whitman was back to his normal self. When I came into the camper, he was watching a show with Anderson having a big time. After eating his s'more, he finished his Sonic drink, ate a snack cake along with some popcorn and candy so at least right now he is feeling much better.
When the rest of us came home from Sonic, we huddled in front of the tv and watched the Hogs play baseball. Actually, I sat in the sun which was perfectly cozy and had myself a little nap. When the game was over, Keaton sat up the pickleball net, and some games were played. There was a single tournament and a doubles tournament. Don't be surprised that I did not win in either bracket-though I sure did play hard in my singles match-hard enough I thought I was going to have to sit down to catch my breath!
Robby cooked supper tonight-nachos and quesadillas on the blackstone. We all agree that those two things are much better cooked on the griddle. For dessert we pulled out the s'mores. That is a favorite for everyone plus tonight we had things that made the fire change colors. Keaton had given these packets to Robby for Christmas, and it was really neat to watch-Whitman certainly enjoyed it-enough that I put some of those on his Christmas list.
We stayed right around the fire tonight until almost 9:30. Most of the kids stayed out a little bit longer watching the basketball games. It was pretty chilly this evening, but the fire was roaring so that was nice. Now we are all in the camper with a few folks in the bed and others watching tv. We still have two beds to make and I'm about to change into my pjs and call it a night!
March 22, 2024-Spring Break Weekend at Toad Suck
It didn't take me too long this morning to get a little bit bored. I finished my chores along with my book. I also finished putting all of my stuff in the camper, and then I just waited. I tried to think up things to do around the house and to help on Sunday, and I did a few of them, but mainly I just waited.
The kids started stirring around 11, and soon they were all moving around the house-I honestly think that they were a bit excited about going somewhere. And they all love talking to Bentley about going "camping" because this thrills her.
We started heading to the camper around 12:45 and were soon off to Toad Suck. I drove the minivan and followed behind Robby. Anderson and Reagan rode with me-they were a bit chatty on the drive, or at least they were too chatty for me to listen to my book.
We got here, and Robby drove in like he knew exactly where we were going-and he did. Then he whipped into our site, and we did a few things-hooking up, putting out the mat, tablecloth, and trash can-and then we went to the Wilson's campsite.
Toad Suck campground is a whole lot like Maumelle Park. We are not near the river, but we are right near a basketball court which the boys spent a good deal of time playing. Anderson, Graham, and Brett went down the road to a church to play some pickleball.
While they were gone, we took a walk and the Wilsons cooked supper. Robby set up the tv, and we watched basketball while we ate, and baseball while we had dessert, and more basketball while we sat around the fire.
We haven't been camping in a good while-I guess since near Thanksgiving, so it was a little hard to become motivated to prep for this trip. However, it was all worth it-it is so nice to be back in the camper!
March 21, 2024
- Today has felt like a Saturday to me. We had heard that Costco puts their sale items on sale Thursday morning and even heard that there are usually people there early waiting to get in. Last night I debated going early to see if we could find any bargains.
- Campbell said that she might go with me, but when my alarm went off this morning, I saw a text from Keaton saying that she would go with me too. Until I had read that text message, I had almost convinced myself that we could just go another week; however, I decided to just get up and get ready.
- I went upstairs to wake Keaton and Campbell up, but Keaton then decided that she didn't want to go. Campbell got herself ready and soon we were out the door. We laughed at the traffic this morning going and said that maybe they were all going to costco.
- When we pulled into the parking lot though, we quickly realized that everyone else was not going to Costco-it was still closed. So, last night when I was looking at the opening time, I must have been really tired. I looked at the closing time: 8:30, so when we pulled up a bit before 9 we were very early for the real 10:00 opening time.
- Campbell and I did the camping grocery run-Robby text me everything that he could think of that we needed, and Campbell and I added a few things. Unfortunately, we didn't need to many things, and we are quick shoppers. Once we finished shopping, we ran to Sonic to buy her a drink. Then I drove through Chick Fil A to pick up a free chicken biscuit which we split on the way to Costco.
- By this time, it was almost opening time and the parking lot was indeed full. They did have a few more than usual sale clothes this morning, but nothing extraordinary. However, Campbell found herself a 7 dollar sweater, and I bought a 3 dollar sweatshirt for me.
- Then we came home, and I started on the day's chores. It wasn't too long before I turned on the oven and started looking for Keaton. She had a party at 1 to go to and still had cookies that she needed to bake (she had made the dough yesterday.) Once her cookies were made it was time to take her just down the road to her party.
- I did some packing today and quite a bit of school work for next fall. Keaton stayed later than she planned which was fine. For supper, I made pasta for must folks' supper while the others just found something around here.
- Campbell and I went to pick up Keaton, and I even let Campbell drive us home-it wasn't far at all. Basketball has been on the tv all day long around here, and we are all comparing our brackets. So far, I am already pretty far behind!
March 20, 2024
- The kids were awake a little bit earlier today than yesterday. At lunch, Keaton joined Robby and I on a run to Walmart. We grabbed a few things including a bike inner tube for Graham's bike since it popped when Robby was airing it up this morning.
- We had another few errands on the way home and brought home lunch for two of the boys. It wasn't too much longer until we all headed to Top Golf. Reagan finished her dog sitting gig and met us there along with Grannymom and Grandpa.
- We had lots of fun at Top Golf and were able to play for about two hours. I am not sure who the big winners were-Grandpa did win one game on one side. I think that Keaton won a game and Reagan also won a game on the other side. Also Whitman won the last game. I think that each bay (we had to split into two groups, but side by side) played 3 different games so I am missing a few winners.
- On the way home, Robby picked up supper for us. It was a bit early for us to eat, but maybe all that golfing made us hungry. After supper, the kids went out to play some pickleball while Robby and I worked on the bike repair. And blast it, if we didn't pop the new inner tube as well. It was a different valve so it didn't go as smoothly as replacing the inner tubes have before.
- Right now everyone is inside, and basketball is on the tv. Bentley is sound asleep already, and I think that I could go to sleep as well.
March 19, 2024
- Day 2 of Spring Break was pretty much like the first day. I woke up before any of the kids-actually, I didn't see any of the kids until after 10 and some even later. I did my chores and walked Bentley-gracious, the past two days I have been quite chilly out walking. I did bundle up more today though so that did help.
- I then alternated between preparing school things for next fall and reading my book. I finished most of my new school stuff, but I still have a few more things to do tomorrow. This curriculum didn't come with a daily schedule so that is what I am working on-a list of exactly what to do each day.
- I did make my third loaf of sourdough bread today. It was not the best, but it was at least better than my first try. My favorite recipe so far has been the sandwich bread that I made and the apple muffins that I am finishing up since I don't think that anyone here likes them.
- In the middle of the night last night, Reagan text me-I didn't see it though. The smoke alarm where she is dog sitting kept beeping like the battery was low. She even had to go to another spot in the house to sleep. Robby was nearby around lunch time so he went and changed it for her. She said that she would need a ladder-he just had to stand on a stool.
- Today we did the first real graduation thing-senior pictures. I know that it is pretty late, but we still did them today. She had them done at Two Rivers bridge, and there were tons of spots for her to take pictures. My favorite was when she climbed in the brush to get near some wisteria (I guess that it what it was.) It is nice when you boss is a photographer; Reagan enjoyed it all, and I think that her bosses did as well.
- We came home, and she headed back to her house. Robby had been working on the camper, but when he finished, we ran to the grocery store for a few things and picked up pizza from Costco for supper.
March 18, 2024
- I have loved this first day of Spring Break. I woke up early in a mad dash to work through my list. I did chore after chore trying to mark things off. I did sit down twice to read a little bit, but each time I had to get up for something-and once was to walk Bentley since she was barking.
- The reason for my insistence on finishing my list had to do with the mail. I was anxiously awaiting a new shipment of curriculum. So, from Reagan on we have pretty much done the same thing each year. I have added things, but I have rarely just about scraped everything and started over. However, that is what I am doing next year for Keaton and Campbell.
- And I could not be more excited about it. My box today had language arts for Graham, Campbell, and Keaton. I worked just about all afternoon on reading through everything tying to understand and getting as much as I could ready for the fall. If I could just jump to the fall, I would right now! Keaton and Campbell don't seem to be as thrilled as I am about all of this though.
- Robby ran a few errands in the morning and was back in time to take Graham to work. He met Reagan there since she is still house sitting. Late this afternoon, we ran a few more errands-Campbell and Keaton were oh so bored, so they went with us. They did manage to get some candy and a drink on the outing so they were pleased.
- Anderson and Whitman were just as happy as they could be here though, but they were anxious to know what supper was going to be. I made english muffin pizzas and fries in my effort to clean out the freezer some.
- After eating, most of the kids worked on their brackets, and now Robby is working and I'm cuddled up on the couch.
March 17, 2024
- We managed to leave a bit after the usual time this Sunday morning. There wasn't too much concern about leaving a little bit later since we thought that there would be a few folks gone because of spring break.
- We did the church thing, and then headed to Nonna and Pops' house for Sunday lunch. We all ate-Reagan discovered that she likes Nonna's corn dip (also known as Texas cavier). We have had it before at Nonna's house but she has never tried it, so I'm glad she tried something new. They also had raspberries which my girls demolished before I even had my plate ready.
- Reagan then headed back to her house sitting house, and the rest of us headed home. Robby and I, of course, had our nap. Usually everyone leaves for life groups and Rock Creek, but all of that was cancelled tonight for Spring Break so all the people were here all evening.
- That kind of threw Robby and me off since we usually start working on things when they leave. And since no one left, our supper ended up being even a little bit later than usual. It was all good though-chicken fried steak. mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls, and brownies.
- The kids played pickleball this afternoon and then also this evening. I think that some one might even be outside now playing as well. The kitchen is clean, and now my blog is written. I have a fairly large list of things that I want to do tomorrow-plus I should be getting a shipment of school books for next year, so I want to finish my chores before they arrive so it should be a busy day!
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