- Last night when we were going to bed, our laundry room and even the mudroom was filled with things that needed to be washed. It was an overwhelming lot of things, and then Marley peed on our bed just as we were about to get in it.
- I grabbed the comforter hoping that it didn't go through that, but it did. Then I ripped of the sheets, but even the mattress pad underneath was damp. I was no longer a happy camper. We then just added to the pile of things to be washed.
- Now, Robby has steadily worked through that pile today, and I do believe that we are caught up. The mudroom is once again full of things, but they are clean things now. We have to clean the camper before all of these things can go back in. Robby did a bit of camper cleaning this afternoon, but it is a lot so he wasn't able to finish.
- We went to church this morning, and our car was a little late because we were waiting to switch over clothes to the dryer before we left. Grannymom, Campbell, Keaton, and Graham were all already there to save our seats so we were good.
- After church, we had a Collide meeting for the 4 kids going to that camp on Saturday. We stayed for a while, but then we left because we have done this before, and I'm able to read the information emails...which reminds me, I actually should read those emails.
- We then had lunch at Grannymom's house, and on the way home we did stop to get the mini van washed since it was pretty dirty from being dragged behind he van. Graham missed lunch because he went to Petit Jean and hiked down to the waterfall with friends.
- This afternoon Robby got gas for the camper and worked on it some. I went to church to get my room ready with Keaton and Campbell. They helped me, but they also ran around the church checking out things.
- Campbell stayed at church and then went to eat and out for ice cream with some friends before ending up at a friend's house watching a movie. Keaton, who did all of the driving this evening, stayed with me and ran into Old Navy while I went to Bath and Body and Michaels on the way home.
- We then picked up everyone else and went to the Wilson's house to watch some baseball and have our Sunday night supper. Robby and I stayed and visited longer than everyone, and on the way home we picked up Campbell.
May 31, 2026
May 30, 2026-Beach Trip-3+3
Robby woke me up before our alarms went off this morning. They were set to ring at 5:45, and we were almost heading out the camper door by then. It took a little bit for us to pull out this morning, but everything went smoothly. I had been worried about us making the turn out of our spot, but Robby had no trouble at all.
We hooked up the car and were on the way by 6:15. We just had a super smooth drive home. We really could not be more thankful. The silly tire pressure monitor didn't even beep at all. It had beeped a little bit on the way to the beach, but it was because it needed new batteries. Robby switched all the batteries out, and it worked perfectly-and the tires worked perfectly as well.
We stopped twice for gas and once for Robby and the dogs to potty. Our first stop was at Buccees-the girls all slept through it, but while Robby pumped gas, I took the dogs potty. Then he ran in to get our breakfast.
The girls were fairly quiet most of the day long-I think some even went to sleep when we almost made it home. It was such a fun trip, Robby has already booked our beach trip for next year.
Once we made it home, it was good to see the boys plus we had a letter from Reagan. It didn't take too long to empty the camper, and this is one of those trips where we have to empty it. Sometimes I can get by without washing all of the bedding, but not this time. It will take a good bit of time with the shop vac to get the sand out of the camper. Robby has even mentioned that he is going to try the blower.
I have done 3 loads of laundry plus a load of dishes and think that I'm going to stop there. I need to do a few more things before bed, but sitting down to write this blog has made me a bit sleepy.
May 29, 2026-Beach Trip-3+3
Another successful beach day is in the books. Robby and I were awake first and walked the dogs. I do believe that Marley is quite a bit calmer when she has plenty of walks. However, she is terrified on her walks-absolutely terrified. That poor puppy is scared of everything. She is better when we walk at night, but during the day there are so many scary sounds and sights for her.
Robby and I went to town on moving sites pretty early. We had the option of a few different sites to move to. One was right across the road from us, but we didn't realize that at the time. We had to walk about 3 sites up the road to get to where our new site was. We took a few trips, plus we packed a few things away.
It took a while for the girls to get up and around. I think that it was 12:45 when everyone headed to the beach. Robby and I went a bit after they did, and this was the most perfect beach day. The weather was gorgeous-and by that I mean, it was cloudy and a little bit breezy. We could have stayed longer again today, but we thought that it was going to start raining so we packed up our things and headed back before the girls. Whitman had gone back before us-he loves the water just as much as Campbell. They spent a long time today playing in the waves.
When we came back, I eventually started on supper. Tonight's supper was rice bowls-they were pretty good, and some of the girls went back for seconds. The girls then went to take pictures on the beach, and Robby and I walked on the beach down to the restaurant we ate at yesterday. It was a little over a mile walk there, but I really wanted to see if we could make it. Next time, we might just walk there and eat-or maybe we will find a new place.
It was interesting though because in front of some beach buildings, there were tons of people outside. And then in front of other ones, there were not many people outside at all. We made it back to the camper before the girls, and then went to fold some of our laundry-we have done laundry at least once every day that we have been here.
I took the girls to Walmart-they needed nothing but found some things, and we needed nothing but I found some ice cream for Whitman and Robby and me. The girls then went to the beach, and tonight Robby gave them a time to be back-we have a long drive tomorrow.
We did spend some time walking around tonight trying to figure out where we could come on our next visit here, so maybe next year, we can come with a few more Dennies.
May 28, 2026-Beach Trip-3+3
I slept well last night except I did have to get up and go to the bathroom. I know that I have talked about this before, but I feel pretty trapped in the camper so getting out of bed takes a good minute. First, our mattress is comfy, but it is just foamy-so when I push down on it, then I just sink in. Second, Bentley is my first obstacle to climb over. Third, Marley and her kennel are at the foot of my side of the bed so I have to shimmy over to Robby's side of the bed to get off the bed. Fourth, I have to climb over Robby or at least his legs while trying not to wake him. Fifth, the bed is just a little bit high for me so getting down is kind of a slide off of the bed.
Getting back into the bed is the same just in reverse. I usually wake up once thinking I need to get up for the bathroom, and then I go back to sleep. The second time I wake up, I really do have to have go. I have even laid in bed wondering if they make hand held urinals for women. I'm not really sure I could do that....but enough about all of that.
Everyone slept in today. Keaton and Sophia headed to the beach first. Whitman walked out just as they were leaving. I quickly sprayed him, and he caught up with the girls. He also scared the daylights out of Keaton today. He was in the water, and then when she tried to find him, she couldn't. They must have looked for a bit, but eventually did spot him in the shore playing in the sand. He has been wearing a bright yellow shirt, but today his shirt was blue so maybe they is why she missed him.
Campbell headed to the beach next, and Robby and I were not too far behind. We sat up the tent, and it was pretty hot for a while. But then the clouds came out, and it was the nicest beach day we have had yet. We stayed for a while and could have stayed longer, but there was laundry to do.
This evening we all went to eat at the Beach House. It was just down the road and a neat little place. Our food was fine and service was fine, so we can say that we have been there and mark it off the list. (We never got our water refilled-urgh), but the crabcakes were really good. Robby bought crabcakes from Sams or Costco lately, and they were just bad so the good crabcakes made up for the lack of water.
The sunset was really pretty so the girls took some pictures-Whitman even took some as well. He said that he was going to go back and edit them. We dropped the kids off at dinner, and Robby and I ran to walmart for some ice cream (and sunscreen and water). The girls are now sitting on the beach chatting, and we have just finished our ice cream!
May 27, 2026-Beach Trip-3+3
We didn't sleep as well last night. Bentley laid right near Robby and my heads. Then it started raining in the middle of the night so I had to hurry outside to grab the things on the drying rack. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with the things on the drying rack tonight-it is absolutely full of things since we didn't do laundry. I may just risk it with the rain-we can always put things in the dryer if we need to.
We all slept in a little bit this morning. Robby and I were the first to wake up because of Marley. We headed outside with the dogs, and the girls slowly started trickling out. They didn't make it to the beach until around 11.
Robby and I walked the dogs and came a bit afterwards. We set up the tent, and then had to hold the tent the entire time we were there. It was again crazy windy today-probably even more so than yesterday.
The girls really didn't stay out at the beach too long today. Whitman even headed back when they did. Robby and I stayed longer because there are a lot of people in this camper, and it is just easier to be out of the way.
We made it back to the camper and around 3:30 we left for Seaside. Whitman said that he would stay back at the camper and protect it for us, and we took him up on that. The girls walked around Seaside, and Robby and I did as well-we stopped at the bookstore, the grocery store, and I went in one other shop. The girls ended up buying a few things in Seaside plus we stopped at a tshirt store on the way back to the camper. Some how I even ended up buying Anderson and Graham a shirt even though they aren't here.
The girls went to take more pictures. When they came back, we had some bbq for them. Some of them ate, but most did not. They were all in a hurry to take their chairs to the beach. They are currently at the beach chatting. Robby and I are laying in the bed-I'm blogging, and he is working. I might read some, or maybe I will just nap until the girls do get back.
May 26, 2026-Beach Trip-3+3
When we went to bed last night, we were pretty sure that today was going to be a washout. However, when Robby went out with the pups this morning, it was bright and sunny. It stayed pretty sunny all day long.
The girls started stirring probably because of Robby and me coming in and out. We decided that since it was good weather we should take advantage of it and make breakfast. As the girls got ready, he made bacon, sausage, and pancakes.
Then the girls and Whitman headed to the beach. I sprayed Whitman and put sunscreen on him very well; however, he is burned. Robby is burned, and he just sat under a tent. So just imagine how burned all of these other girls are! They were diligent with sunscreen, but the sun was just so strong.
The waves were incredible today. The kids did get in the water, but not very far. When Robby and I showed up at the beach, Campbell asked me if I was going to watch Whitman. Sweet girl was watching her brother. I did watch him for her-he didn't go out very far, and by 2ish he was ready to go in.
I walked back with him and made lunch for everyone. I returned to the beach with their snacks. Robby and I sat there a bit longer, but eventually the girls called the beach quits and went to the pool. We then loaded up the tent and hauled all the things back to the camper.
Robby did laundry this afternoon, and we picked up pizza for tonight's supper. The girls spent about 2 hours, no kidding at all, getting ready for a beach photo shoot tonight. I probably should have dressed Whitman up too so he could have taken a pictures with them.
It is just 8:30, and the girls have plans to go and crab hunt tonight. Robby, Bentley, Marley, and I are all settled in the bed though!
May 25, 2026-Beach Trip-3+3
We slept wonderfully well last night. Well, kind of wonderfully well. Marley started barking when we went to bed; she heard Robby and me coming and going to the bathroom. Then at 4 when we made our bathroom runs again, she started fussing again. And then at 7:30 like usual, she again started whimpering.
Thankfully, none of those time did she bark and whine for long. I have read articles about dogs Marley's age decide that they don't like the crate and become fussy in their crates. Tonight I think she will sleep even better, not that she has done anything, but because our back air conditioner will be on blocking some extra noise.
Marley hasn't done anything today except for ride in the car-let's pause here to talk about how terrified she is of everything. Riding in the camper scares her if she is up front, loud noises scare her, the rain, and even the sand scared her when she first stepped on it. She will need therapy after this trip. After we got here, I just let the dogs walk around on their long leashes while we stood around. It was raining then so they were soaked. Robby brushed them and dried them before coming in, but it was so noisy with trucks and campers rolling by and even the trash truck. She could not get in this camper fast enough.
It was about 9 when we left Spanish Fort this morning. We were not in any hurry because we knew when check in was, and we knew what the weather looked like. It wasn't raining when we left or 20 miles down the road when we got to Buccees. After getting gas, we all went in, and this Buccee's might possibly be the busiest one I have ever seen. Probably being Memorial Day only increased the crowds.
We arrived at Camping on the Gulf around 1 or possibly before. It took us no time to unhook the car and back into our spot. The light rain didn't even slow us down. The girls all explored some, and by the time that we had eaten lunch the rain had stopoed.
We took some chairs to the beach, and Campbell, Keaton, and Whitman even swam some. We saw the storms coming in over the gulf, but Robby and I didn't think too much about it when we left our chairs and went on a walk. We had to hurry back to our chairs, and then carry everything back to our campsite.
We were all drenched when we made it back, and it was pouring. We finally all made it in and got settled. Some people took showers, but everyone changed into dry clothes. Robby eventually did some laundry to dry some things. Then we had walking tacos for our supper tonight. Robby had leftover chicken spaghetti, and I had leftover salad we don't really know if the walking tacos were good. We can eat those leftovers tomorrow night or tomorrow during lunch since we were be in the camper because it will still be raining.
After supper we ran to Walmart for a little bit. Robby and I bought us and Whitman some ice cream. Some of the girls had showers, and currently everyone is back in the camper. I think that the rain has stopped, so we will possibly take the dogs for a quick potty break before heading towards bed.
May 24, 2026-Beach Trip-3+3
Many months ago Campbell planned a beach trip, and it is finally here. She had a whole presentation about where, when, and how much this little trip would cost. Her "how much" category wasn't taking into account a war making gas prices jump nor was she taking into account how much gas this camper actually uses at all.
We started the morning off with church. Since this is Memorial Day weekend, there was also a picnic at Raymar after church. We had planned to skip the picnic, pick up the extra friends with us and head on down the road. However, during church Robby decided that maybe we would go to the picnic to just grab a bit to eat.
When church was over, we collected Sophia and Laynie, and then at Raymar we added Elliot to the mix. We ran home and in less than 30 minutes we were on the road to the beach. The trip was fairly uneventful (praise God).
I listened to a book and actually finished it on the road. Robby listened to the Hogs lose their ball game. I probably should have started heating up supper before I did, but I waited until we stopped. It was nearly 9:30 when we did eat our chicken spaghetti, bread, and salad. I think that it was all pretty good, but it was kind of crazy in the camper-lots of teenage girls getting ready for bed took a bit longer than we had planned.
Plus a few of our camper guests have never road tripped in a camper so that added to the confusion. You would not believe the amount of stuff packed into this camper-you probably didn't know that each night of this beach trip, there were be different dresses worn and hair styled so a photo shoot can take place. Whitman is trying his best to stay away from all of these girls; however, he has become their photographer.
Getting everyone into bed was quite the feat as well. We finally got Marley in her kennel and Bentley threw up on the floor. Then Marley started barking while I had to search the camper looking for Robby's phone. Currently, it is getting quiet in the back with us plus it is getting quiet up front.
I'm glad it is getting quiet because I'm a bit tired. My morning started at 5:30 when my alarm went off. I jumped out of bed to make sure that Reagan was awake. While she got ready, I did the dishes and laundry before seeing her off.
I crawled back in bed and had myself a nice nap until it was time to wake up for church. I actually got up earlier than I needed because I thought that Campbell was leaving at 8, I was walking down the hall to make sure she was awake when I realized she wasn't leaving until 8:30 so I slept a bit longer.
Reagan made it to camp, and she was excited about today because this was the day the kids started arriving. I saw some pictures and it is quite a arrival-some are in buses plus some kids are hanging out of their cars with signs. I know she is going to do great, and I really hope that she loves it.
May 23, 2026
- I woke up at 7 something this morning excited that I had slept in, so imagine my excitement when I realized that I still had time to sleep some more.
- We eventually did get up and start on the morning. I washed two different loads of towels, folded the laundry, and unloaded the dishwasher. Then Robby and I left to run a few errands. We started at the post office and then Costco.
- Next was Walmart where I did our shopping, and Robby did some shopping for someone else. That worked out well though because it did get us moving quickly. We also ran into Sams to buy a few last things for us-the more we think about what everyone needs to eat next week, the more we end up buying-snacks for Reagan, food for the people here, food for the people on the trip-it's a lot.
- We were also hurrying because Reagan was on her way home. She thought that she was going to get off at noon, but she was in the her car heading home before that. This morning she changed her cabins to get ready for tomorrow when campers arrive. Then she hit the road for home.
- She had a car load of laundry-three loads. Now she has folded that laundry, added a few more things to his bags, and is probably getting ready to go to sleep. She will have to leave at 6 in the morning. She has big kids next week and is excited about that, So far, she is really enjoying camp.
- This evening we met Graham at Chilis, and the whole family enjoyed supper. Reagan told us about camp, and Graham told us about his half marathon distance that he ran this morning. He even splurged and picked up some doughnuts afterwards.
- Graham and Anderson went to play volleyball afterwards, while the rest of us ran to Kroger quickly before coming home. We even bought a bit of ice cream to celebrate tomorrow's trip.
May 22, 2026
- This morning when my alarm went off, I got on out of bed and got myself ready-then I climbed back in the bed-shoes and all. It was so dark and dreary and since Marley was sleeping, I thought I few more minutes in the bed wouldn't hurt anyone.
- I still got up before anyone else in the house. After a few things, Robby took care of Marley while I started loading up the camper. We have quite a bit of food left to buy for our little trip, but there were about 4 loads off food to put in. It started pouring while I was out there, so I stayed a bit longer to wait out the rain.
- The big even today was a new tire for the Subaru. Graham came home to pick up Campbell before work, and said that the low tire light came on. I found the psi of the tires and one was pretty low.
- Robby ran home and found a nail in it so while they were at work, we got that tire replaced. They weren't able to fix it, so Robby was none too pleased about having to buy a new tire for a new car with new tires, but it is what it is.
- I picked Campbell and Graham up from work, and as soon I made it home, Campbell and Keaton ran a few errands. Anderson worked out while Whitman and I did some school work-yes, even on a Friday afternoon at 5, we did some school. However, when we were done, Whitman and I played the new game.
- Robby brought home pizza for supper, and now Campbell has gone to feed her chickens (not hers, but ones she is watching).
May 21, 2026
- I'm really not sure-I'm not sure about what day today is or what we did today. Ah, yes-Campbell did babysit this morning, and Keaton did as well. They worked at different houses, and one of them made a good bit more than the other. They were both pleased though.
- I took Keaton, and then Campbell and I picked her up. We ran a few errands on the way home-hobby lobby, target, seven brew, Nonnas, Jennifers, and home. I even tried to go to the library, but there was a wreck, and we couldn't get there.
- Robby was gone when I came home. Even though it was past 5, I still did some school work with Whitman, and then Anderson, Keaton, Whitman, and I played our new game again. I really like the new game, and it kind of has me obsessed with games right now.
- We ate, and then I read on the couch until I got a little bit sleepy. Robby then came home, and Anderson and I went to the garage to help him finish up. We had worked on cleaning the garage earlier in the day-we threw away a decent amount of things and moved things all around.
- Campbell went to play volleyball, and even convinced Anderson to let her take his car. She has run to Sonic, but Graham has been all over today. He climbed pinnacle, played volleyball, and is now playing pickleball tonight.
May 20, 2026
- Even though I wasn't planning on painting this morning, I still did some painting. I had actually cleaned up all of the school room-folding the sheets on the floor and putting away the paint and supplies. Then I realized that I really needed to touch up the doors once again. It took about 5 minutes, but it certainly wasn't what I wanted to do. However, it really all looks good.
- The color is a lot different, and I'm really not used to it. Once I get my rug and clean up the pile of things in middle of the room, I know I will really love it. Now, all of my painting does make me want to get a new lamp, a new rug, and a new couch for the school room-that is why Robby won't let me paint the rest of the house...I'd spend too much money!
- I was pretty busy most of the day-I'd do a few things and then work on the school room a bit But the fun part f the day was playing a game with Whitman and Anderson. It was a new game, and we all really enjoyed it.
- Campbell and Graham were at work. Then when they came home, Graham left to go back to his house sitting gig, and Campbell left to go to a birthday party. Robby and I left next to run some errands, and then Anderson left next to go and play volleyball.
- While Robby and I were out running errands, we stopped and saw Campbell and her friends at Dairy Queen. When she mentioned that she mentioned that she was there, some ice cream sounded good to us so we stopped for some.
- Now, we are home sitting on the couch watching a show-I'm also planning my list of things to do tomorrow.
May 19, 2026
- I was not ready for my alarm to wake me up this morning. I usually wake up around 6 to go to the bathroom, so when I climb back in bed, I am usually happy that I have a bit longer to sleep. This morning I didn't wake up at all, so it was kind of sad to go ahead and get up.
- I had to wake up so I could double check that Keaton and Campbell were awake this morning. They were-Campbell, especially, is great about waking up with her alarm. They headed off to go to a preschool graduation of a little one that they babysit. Then they met some friends at Top Golf.
- Grannymom came over this morning to help me with the trim. Surprisingly, the trim took about as long as the walls did to paint. Plus I had to go back over the doors and give them a second coat. The slick doors didn't seem to take the paint as easily as the walls. I will have to wait to take the tape of until later because the paint is still a bit wet. I can do that and do some cleaning tomorrow before putting the furniture back to where it goes Thursday.
- Next up was the dentist visit for all of us. Well, all of us but Robby and Reagan. He is on a different schedule than us, and she is at camp. Anderson and Keaton, my cavity kids, did not have any today. But Whitman, who has never had a cavity, has some along with Campbell, who hates the dentist, and Graham.
- I made meatball subs for supper tonight and did a few more things around the house. Robby went to dinner with work people, and the big boys have gone to a friend's house so I'm just sitting on the couch with the dogs.
May 18, 2026
- I was up a bit late waiting on my boys to get back to their houses, but other than that I slept really well. When I did wake up, I hurried through my chores because today was a big day-painting day.
- Before we even go started though, Campbell left for breakfast with her friends, and Keaton, Whitman, and Robby left for Top Golf.
- Grannymom, Anderson, and I worked for an hour and a half, and we completely painted the walls of the school room. It did help that I had everything ready, but our struggle was the amount of paint that we had. Dana had mentioned that we might need two cans-we barely had enough to finish, but Grannymom was able to salvage enough that we even have some for touchups if we need it.
- After our painting, we had lunch-leftovers. While we were eating, Campbell came in, Keaton and Whitman came in, Graham came in, and then Graham and Campbell left. Soon after that, Grannymom left-but don't fear she is coming back tomorrow to help me finish the trim, and for that I know that I have enough paint.
- This afternoon I had a doctor's appointment, and then I picked up my newly resized wedding ring. It will be nice to have my ring to wear, but I think I'm going to bit a little paranoid that it is going to come off-it fits me now and isn't too big, but I haven't worn a ring in a really long time.
- Tonight I had to spot for Anderson when he was lifting weights It was lifting over 180 pounds-like I could save his life, but I was ready. I made sliders for supper, but Anderson and Graham were gone to play basketball.
May 17, 2026
- We took all of the cars possibly to church today. Graham came from his house sitting gig so he drove one car. Campbell and Keaton had to keep kids at another church after church was over so they took a second car. Robby and I were going to go shopping after we left Grannymom's house so we took car number three. Anderson and Whitman didn't want to go shopping with us so they brought car four.
- Before church, I was able to drop off a few things that I borrowed for the shower. Church was super exciting today-I got a text from Reagan. She had 30 minutes with her phone, and we were in the middle of worship. She left us a 4 minute voice recording that I have listened to a few times. She said everything was going good-not a life guard, but working on the ropes course. I was so glad to hear from her today.
- Robby, Whitman, and I were the first ones to leave church and arrive at Grannymom's house. Graham and then Anderson showed up, and we enjoyed lunch and some time to visit.
- Robby and I ran a few errands and most importantly bought the paint fr the school room. I also gathered some help-Grannymom is coming to help. Paint was a bit pricey so hopefully one gallon on paint will do it. Otherwise, I will be going back for some more.
- We made it home after 4 so there was a little bit for us to do in the house. I finished getting the school room ready while Robby worked on dessert. Soon the Wilsons came over for supper (which was left over from the wedding last night). We visited for a while, and then they left, and Robby and I sat on the couch for a bit!
May 16, 2026
- This was the last Upward game for the season, and it was my last day of my concessions stand duty as well. Hallelujah. I don't hate it, but it does take up a few Saturdays. It has served its purpose and helped the kids pay for camps over the years, but now we have less kids earning money so even when they work for a bit, we still just make 30 or 40 dollars a Saturday, and I'm there all day so it really isn't worth it. Now, I do enjoy Raymar, and this year I have gotten to know some new folks so that has been fun.
- The kids will still work the concession stand next season, but Keaton was busy working today. She reffed 4 different soccer games. As usual, there were some grown ups who didn't act too nice, but I think that she can handle her own out there on that field.
- Since today was the championship game, Graham had decided that he didn't want to ref at all. He has never really liked reffing especially when tensions are high. He has always done in though to help earn money for camp, but today he just stayed at home (well, he stayed at his house sitting gig.)
- Tonight we went to the McGuire wedding. It was pretty far out, and we didn't even have cell service. I was afraid that tonight would be night that Reagan was able to call or text us, and we would miss it. However, when we did get back to civilization there was no text from her so maybe we will hear from her soon.
- The wedding was outside, and I think that everything worked out perfectly well. We had old church friends and current church friends to visit with so we really had a good time. Robby and I were supposed to help clean up, and after the wedding we spent a lot of time visiting.
- We had been back in the reception place for about 5 minutes and were visiting in there, when Amber came up to us and told us to go on home since we had been helping so much. We had to tell her that we hadn't helped at all yet!
- We were able to completely fill the van full of things to help take to their house. We were there when they all pulled in so we also unloaded their cars. Hopefully, we were some help to them!
- It was after 10;30 when we made it home. Now, our car is unloaded, and I'm sitting in the kitchen in my dress with the dog asleep at my feet. Robby is watching the news, but we better start thinking about getting ourselves to bed!
May 15, 2026
- This morning started with me frantically making 3 breakfast casseroles-I somehow got a few minutes behind on my schedule and had to quickly dry my hair and throw on my dress.
- I still made it in time to help set things up for Kennedy's bridal brunch. The brunch turned out amazingly well. The food was all good and the decorations were beautiful. It was fun helping with lots of fun friends.
- When it was over, we went to town washing dishes and cleaning up. It did get a little warm cleaning up, but I rewarded myself with a Sonic drink on the way home.
- Once I made it home, Campbell and Graham were at work, but Keaton chatted with me in the kitchen while I unloaded everything and straightened the house some. It didn't take too long to reset a few things.
- Robby came home, and we ended up back at Top Golf with Keaton and Whitman. While we golfed, which I did win most of the games we played, I worked on a letter for Reagan and worked on my list for next week. I always feel like I can think better once I have written things down.
- Graham went to house sit today, and this afternoon, Anderson spent some time working out. Keaton and Campbell went to babysit tonight, and Robby and I left next. We met up with some friend's to celebrate Tony's birthday. We ate habachi, and then came back to Shannon's house for cake.
- The boys met up to play volletball and now they are at Sonic. Robby and I just sat down on the couch and possibly we should go to bed and possibly we will watch a show.
May 14, 2026
- Campbell and Keaton started the morning off with their last day at Mother's Day Out. They ended up coming home with quite a few gifts from their little students. Robby and I left fairly early too this morning.
- We went to get my wedding ring resized. I haven't been able to wear it in over a decade, and just fyi-getting my ring resized cost over 10 times what Robby thought it would! We then ran a few errands before my picking up something from Grannymom's house and dropping something off at Grannymom's house. Then we came home for just a few minutes.
- Whitman and I left with Marley this time for a vet appointment. She has a sore on her paw that just isn't getting any better. The vet gave her some medicine which seems to have caused her to start pottying in the house again! It's 14 day medicine-eeek!
- As soon as we made it home, we all left to meet up with the girls at Top Golf. The kids played a few rounds of golf there, but I left early to go and help with some flowers and then prep for a bridal brunch.
- I was gone all evening, but the big boys went to work out when they made it home. Keaton and Whitman made a recipe from a cookbook Whitman has, and then later Campbell made cookies. Robby cooked up breakfast burritos and about 8 pounds of sausage.
- He was still working on that when I came in tonight. I helped him clean up and now it's my bedtime.
May 13, 2026
- Campbell was the first one awake this morning. She had spent the night at a friend's house, and they all still had school so she came home when they left for school. On her way home, she took care of her chickens and then quietly came into the house.
- I was the only other one awake when she came in. The house was super quiet most of the morning long. Other than Campbell I didn't see anyone for quite a long time. Anderson did find out that he didn't get the job that he interviewed for, so he will have to pivot to plan b-first he has to figure out what plan b is.
- I did some more work on the school room-tomorrow I prep for paint. Now, I haven't bought the paint yet, but we are getting there slowly but surely. The day went by pretty quickly. I was going to lay down on the couch for a little bit while Graham and Campbell were at work, but Keaton asked to play a game.
- Anderson, Whitman, Keaton, and I played Coop. Then I made a breakfast casserole-I have to make a few on Friday and was sampling it tonight. Plus Graham has really wanted to have roasted potatoes and ground beef for supper.
- The roasted potatoes were easy since they were from a bag. And the ground beef was easy too-I just browned it. Just eating ground beef is not for me, but Anderson and Graham dug in. Keaton asked them if they were trying to bulk up.
- Tonight we all had a Camp Geyer meeting. Afterwards, Graham rode with someone to meet some friends to play volleyball. Anderson met him there, and Campbell went to a friend's house for a party-I think that people were bringing their school work to burn. Unfortunately for Campbell, I had already gotten rid of all of her school work so she had nothing to burn.
- Whitman, Keaton, and I came home where Whitman cooked himself a pizza, and Keaton had cheese dip. I'm not too sure what I'll eat for supper though-maybe I'll just get myself some hot chocolate.
May 12, 2026
- This was a big day-Reagan was up fairly early. She said that she was completely packed, but I think that she might have been adding more things to her bags. She left around 12:30 and stopped to get gas with Robby before leaving town.
- We know that we will see her near the end of June, but we aren't really sure if we will see her again before then or how much we will hear from her. She did text when she made it and said that she was in a long line of cars waiting to possibly get her cabin.
- These next two weeks are orientation-it looks like on the schedule that she is about to do some of her certification classes. The girl is getting certified to be a life guard-that will be a good skill to have, but it might be hard to complete.
- I know that she will have a great time, but I'll be a little anxious until we hear that she is loving it. The website says that there will be 7,000 kids at the camp this year, so I know that she is going to be exhausted when this summer is over!
- Anderson was supposed to hear from his job interview today, but of course that hasn't happened yet. We did get the kids' grades today-one probably needs to have more fun and study less and one probably needs to study more and have less fun.
- Campbell went to a friend's house tonight and even stopped to get a drink on the way and then went with the girls to get snow cones. She is living it up. Keaton and I went to a graduation party really quickly tonight before running into Walmart to pick up a few things.
- Graham also left tonight to go and play pickleball. I think he is playing pickleball; it may be volleyball. Who knows. Anderson didn't go with him tonight, but he did go and work out with a friend this afternoon. It's been a busy day around here, but it seems that all summer long will be some busy days.
May 11, 2026
- I guess that we could say that today was the first day of summer break. Unfortunately, it didn't take too long for me to realize that my list is too long. Even without school, I can barely finish everything by lunch....possibly I should wake up a little bit earlier, but it is nice to sleep in.
- I will get it all figured out this summer though because I want to have time for some fun things-like painting the school room, finishing my crochet blanket and starting on another one, organizing my recipes, and reading a few books (I haven't read a book book this year.)
- Reagan spent most of the day packing-she has packed, unpacked, and repacked. There was some drama when she could not find a new pair of shorts. She had looked everywhere, and I even looked everywhere-even had Shannon check her laundry basket. I eventually found them in Graham's drawers. I guess the laundry folder put them in the wrong pile. She should be fired!
- Campbell and Graham went to work this afternoon, and Anderson didn't leave until later, but he went to work out with a friend this afternoon.
- Whitman, Keaton, and I went to the foodbank this afternoon. We met up with some friends there, and I am always so proud of my kids and this group when we go. I've done things with lots of homeschool kids, and some times I am a little disappointed in how they have acted-not so with this crew.
- Our group worked so hard the entire time. Our task today was taking huge boxes of cereal and repacking it into 1 pound bags. The bags had to be weighed, measured, and sealed before be counted and put into a box. We packed over 400 pounds of cereal-just our little group. It was lots of fun-so we celebrated with some Sonic on the way home.
- Robby and I ran some errands tonight and picked up supper. Everyone was home to eat except for Graham who went to play volleyball with his friends. While he was gone, Anderson started the fire pit for Campbell and Keaton. All of the kids enjoyed some time in around the fire pit. I was able to sit near it just long enough for my hair to smell wonderfully smokey!
May 10, 2026
- Robby left before I crawled out of bed this morning. He ran to let Dana's dogs out this morning. I took my shower and then came to the kitchen. The kids had me a frame with their pictures in it along with cards for everyone, and Robby had a note and a few candles so that was a good start to this Mother's Day.
- I made sure that Campbell was awake because she had to leave early for her chicken duty. Keaton rode with her so they could both get there early. I quickly took my shower and woke up the boys so they could get ready.
- We all squeezed in Reagan's car on the way to church-plus we had flowers for Nonna, a case of gatorade and a tray of breakfast things for Graham's Sunday school class, and cookies for Whitman's Sunday school class. It was a full car.
- It was nice having the row full of all of the kids today during big church. When church was over, we met back up at Nonna and Pops's house for Sunday lunch. She had spaghetti and all of the fixings. We ate and then visited for a little bit. Keaton and Reagan left a bit before everyone else because Reagan needed to go shopping for some things for camp.
- The rest of us came home-Robby started mowing, and his lawnmower belt broke. This has happened before; however, that means we have to push the lawnmower back to the garage. It is heavy and of course, it was at the bottom of the yard so we had to go up.
- I do keep saying "We," and I did help. However, I didn't help much. I just had to pull one bolt as the pushed to disengage something or another. I tried to help some, but this mostly just involved me trying to keep up with Anderson and Robby as they pushed the lawnmower while holding the bolt at an awkward angle (Graham would have helped too, but he was sleeping soundly.
- After this, I put Marley to bed and took my nap-and it was wonderful! Absolutely wonderful! We then left to go to the Wilson's house for supper. Anderson and Graham stayed for only about 10 minutes, but they were there long enough to have some spaghetti (notice a theme).
- The rest of us stayed for a while before heading home. Campbell went to meet her friends for ice cream so Reagan drove me to put up Campbell's chickens-again, I have reaffirmed to myself that I do not ever want chickens!
May 9, 2026
- This morning was early for everyone-I left first at 7 with Keaton and Campbell. We stopped first so Campbell could take cake of her chickens that she is chicken sitting this week. Then we had to run to the gas station before we went to Raymar.
- Reagan and Lena left next to go to Arkadelphia for graduation. They also left at 7. Reagan said that they were not planning on getting a seat and even took a blanket to sit on. They were close, but they were also behind some bushes. She did say that when she graduates, we will need to get there by 6 to get chairs in the shade.
- Graham left next to join us at Raymar so he could ref the 8'o'clock game. Robby and Whitman left after that so they could go and let Dana's dogs out. Whitman just stayed at Dana's all day long and watched her puppies.
- Reagan and Anderson were both very productive when they were home today. Anderson unpacked all of his clothes plus he went through clothes that were here and cleaned all his drawers. Reagan went through everything that she brought home, and then she has now pretty much packed up for camp.
- We all trickled back home at different times, and now most everyone has left again. Robby came home for a few minutes, and then left again to run a few more errands and pick up Whitman. Graham and Anderson left after supper to play pickleball.
- Campbell also left after supper to play pickleball, but first she had to put her chickens up. It was a bit too early, and they were not ready to go in the coop, so Keaton and I ran to do that. I used to think that I wanted chickens, but I do not at all.
May 8, 2026
- Today was a fun day. Robby and I left around 8 to slowly make our way to Arkadelphia. We stopped a few times to do a few shops. We had taken one extra row of seats out of the white van and hoped that would be enough.
- Just like last year, moving out was super easy. We met Anderson first, and he had his few things sitting outside his door. It was two trips for us, but we had a great parking spot so it wasn't bad.
- Then we moved on to Reagan's room. We made a few trips to her room, and Anderson made it over to help us just in time to bring the fridge down. She had her things sitting outside her doorway too ready to go.
- However, her car was also loaded down, and since she was going to stay in Arkadelphia today for a graduation party, she wanted for her people to be able to ride with her. So we unloaded her car into the van which just about filled it up. My kids must be good packers, but this is the second time Reagan's car load of stuff has filled up the white van!
- We made it home, and Anderson dutifully helped us unload the white van. He had already unloaded his car and moved a desk to the driveway. Then he helped move the desk into someone's car when they came to pick it up (that did make me feel good-I was able to get something out of the house even though Reagan and Anderson were bringing a lot of things into the house.)
- I can't really believe that Reagan has finished her second year of college and is half way done, and Anderson has already finished his first year. The bonus room is pretty full-they each have a corner, and Graham is starting to add things to his corner for school too.
- I picked Keaton up from work and took her to party. While she was there, I ran to Walmart before picking up Keaton and taking her to a friend's house. Now, someone will have to bring her home at some point tonight.
- Robby is out running errands, Graham and Anderson are playing volleyball, and Campbell just got back from feeding her chickens. It has been a busy evening so far, and I just want to sit on the couch!
May 7, 2026
- This morning I woke up at 6 to go to the bathroom, and I was almost giddy that I still had quite a bit of time to sleep. When Robby's alarm went off at 6:20 this morning, I had already gone back to sleep and was again pleased that I had still plenty of time to sleep.
- When I did wake up, I made sure that the girls were awake and getting ready for work. They soon left, and then I spent the next hour almost trying to wake up Graham and Whitman. I did get Whitman to wake up, but he ended up back asleep on my bedroom couch.
- This was officially the last day of school around here-Whitman finished his things, but Graham still is working on his Spanish project. He should finish tomorrow but has until Sunday to finish. I tried to put a few school things up and a few school things on ebay today.
- My original goal was to paint the school room the week after school ended. I might get motivated, but I really need to get rid of my big desk first. Plus painting always overwhelms me. I will definitely get it done, but it might take a few weeks-hopefully not though.
- Robby and I ran a few errands this afternoon, and I was able to mark something off of my list-getting Graham's name on his Bible. Overall, this week's list is getting pretty empty which is certainly not my norm. I should be doing something productive now, but this couch is so comfy.
May 6, 2026
- Since Keaton and Campbell were not here last night, Bentley wasn't too sure of what to do. She started in the boys room but then went looking for the girls in their room. She made it downstairs before the boys realized.
- I put her in our room where she slept in the closet floor until the thunder started. She then wanted me to open the bedroom door and let her out. She liked to go to the girls' room when it is stormy-I think because they have so many fans she can't hear the thunder maybe)
- I then put her in bed with us where she stayed until almost morning when she went to our couch. Bentley will be happy to see those girls when they get home. They are still doing their babysitting gig, and they are still loving every minute of it! They took those girls to church tonight and ChickFIlA.
- That just left Whitman and Graham home this morning for school. I let them both sleep in a little bit, but then they had to get to work. Graham still has a Spanish presentation to finish or possibly start. In Arkadelphia, Anderson finished his first year of college with his last test at 8 this morning. He is staying until Friday when we come to pack him and Reagan up.
- I ran a few errands today-once to bring Campbell home so she could ride with Graham to work. Then she drove back to her gig in the white car. I also went to do a little bit of wedding bridal brunch prep with a friend.
- Then before too long it was time to go to church for the last Wednesday night. I will kind of miss it because I enjoy the social time-and I enjoy the reason to have to easily stop at the library every week to pick up books.
May 5, 2026
- Campbell was probably surprised this morning when she asked if today could be her last day of school. She and Keaton are babysitting all night tonight and all day tomorrow, and they could have taken their school. However, this is the last week so I maybe a little too quickly said that this could be their last day. I made them finish a few extra things, but they were still pretty pleased with me.
- Graham finished one of his classes today so he just has a Spanish presentation to do before he is officially finished with high school. Whitman may not be as happy with me because he still has two more days of school. He is actually find with that though because all he has left is a lot of reading which he enjoys.
- Robby and I celebrated Cinco de Mayo this afternoon with lunch out at Cantina Laredo. The food was fine, but the cheese dip and apple pie dessert was excellent. And tonight for supper, I made tacos for everyone that was here.
- This afternoon I did a few things around the house, and then we took the girls to their babysitting gig. We picked up a tv stand from a friend so we ended up doing some rearranging in the bonus room since we are getting ready to squeeze all of the college things upstairs.
May 4, 2026
- I slept in as last as I could this morning before getting up to start school. No one complained too much, but I'm ready for a few days off from school plus I'm excited about all of next year's activities.
- Keaton, Whitman, and I worked together this morning, but we finished our constitution curriculum today so this will be our last work together day. I wonder if that means that we can start school a little bit late the next few days?
- Keaton joined Campbell and Graham this afternoon at work. Keaton can not go on Wednesday, but she will go on Friday plus she received her first paycheck in the mail today.
- While they were gone to work, I ran a few errands with Robby. I bought some things for Graham's dorm room plus I checked on some picture frame for a bridal lunch I'm helping with. I needed 30, but even after looking at a few today, I ended up buying them online.
- The kids came home from work, and I made pancakes for supper. Campbell and Robby went to eat wings while I tried to work on a few things in the house. When Robby made it home, we ran to the WIlson's house for a few minutes, and now I've had my hot chocolate, and we are watching a show.
May 3, 2026
- This was Senior Sunday at church which means that Graham and the rest of the seniors walked across the stage wearing their robes. There was even a video that the seniors had made thanking the church. I think that Graham had fun today.
- Keaton took Graham's extra cupcakes from last night to her Sunday school class, so I bet that her class had fun today as well. After church, we went to Grannymom's house for Sunday lunch. She had soup which was excellent because I had been freezing all day long.
- After lunch, Robby and I ran some errands this afternoon. We made a little bit of money and didn't spend any-though there are a few things on my list to buy early this week.
- While we were gone, Campbell and Keaton left to water the plants that they are taking care of. Then they also went to another church to keep kids there-they went from one job to another job.
- When we made it home, Graham left to go and play pickleball with his buddies. Campbell dropped off Keaton and left again to go to Adi's house to watch a movie. Last night I tried to stay awake until Campbell and Graham came in, but I fell asleep before either one of them made it home-so hopefully I will do better tonight.
May 2, 2026
- We were up until after 1 last night talking to Anderson. When Keaton, Campbell, and Graham came in from their evening outing, they added to the conversation so it was a fairly lively evening. I think that there were be quite a few more late nights like this coming up this summer.
- Keaton, Campbell, and I left around 7:20 this morning to drop Campbell off to help a friend with a garage sale. Then Keaton and I met Whitman and Graham at Raymar. Graham reffed two games while Keaton and Whitman worked in the concession stand.
- Then Keaton reffed three games, and Campbell eventually showed up to work a bit in the concession stand too. It was an odd weather day-it was cold, it was hot, it was sunny, it was cloudy, it was windy, it was not. I had on a sweatshirt, then a long sleeve shirt, then a tshirt, then a jacket and ended up taking my jacket off and on all afternoon.
- We came home, and I laid down on the couch for a little bit. Then it was time to get ready for Graham's Senior banquet at church. Reagan drove up, and Grannymom, Nonna, and Pops were all there. The food was pasta and cheesecake tonight, and it was very good. All of the seniors received a super nice Bible.
- After the banquet was over, Reagan emptied the contents of her car to our big white van-I'm not sure how, but she practically filled up the white van. Then Campbell took on care to go and play pickleball while Graham took another to go and play volleyball-they were actually going to the same place, but sharing a car would have made too much sense.
- Robby and I dropped off Keaton and Whitman at home, and then we took some banquet leftovers to the Wilsons. Then we hauled Reagan's things up to the bonus room. It is already filling up, but we still have a lot to add up there.
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