- When let Marley out of her kennel this morning, she ran into the living room. She usually does this because she is looking for Bentley. I was turning the corner into the living room and could see Robby hurrying over to stop her-I didn't realize that Whitman was sound asleep on the floor, and Marley was happily greeting him.
- He was exhausted last night when he went to bed, so I assumed that he would go to bed soon. He thought he went to sleep around 1 which is near when we all did go to bed. However, Anderson disagreed. So I'm not really sure how long he did stay up, but later in the morning he was watching a movie and fell asleep during it. He said that he had to back the movie up so he could catch up.
- Campbell, Robby, and I ran a few errands this morning-first, Campbell found her a dress, and then we all found something at Costco. We came home, and Campbell was home for a little bit, and then she left to pick up Keaton and head to babysit.
- They were still babysitting now. Graham left early this morning too, and he did come home long enough to eat supper before leaving again. He even did a little bit of dorm shopping today and found himself a blanket. Anderson also helped with Graham's dorm prep too-Graham is going to use Anderson's little couch so he helped fix one leg and show me how to put it together. I made a school countdown the other night, and even though we have a few days left, it is still getting close.
July 31, 2026
July 30, 2026
- When Robby and I started stirring this morning, Anderson was already awake making his breakfast. I know that he was up at least until we went to bed after 2 last night. I guess he was just an early riser this morning.
- I was sitting here trying to figure out what all happened today-it's been a good day, but I was just blank on the day's events. I did finally remember-first this morning Grannymom and I went to Books by the Pound, a bookstore, in North Little Rock. We looked around, but since we both get our books from other places, we didn't even buy anything.
- We did go to lunch afterwards at Panda Express. This was Grannymom's first time, and I think that she enjoyed it. I enjoyed the food and the company. When I dropped Grannymom off, I headed home.
- Graham was went to lunch with some friends, so I did some dorm packing by myself for him. Not much though because I really think that he needs to know where everything is. Then it was time to pick Whitman up from his mission trip.
- Keaton drove me there, and we timed it perfectly. Whitman pulled up just as we had parked-though we were in the back of the church, and he was in the front of the church. Whitman had a really good time on his trip to Starkville. HIs favorite thing was skating, and he told me that we needed to go skating more often.
- Tonight, Robby and I went to the Powell's house with some other friends for supper and pool mahjong playing. It was a fun evening!
July 29, 2026-Happy 18th Birthday Graham!
- Graham was the first one awake this morning-he wanted to run 18 miles but only ended up running 8. I still think that 8 miles is pretty good especially since I didn't manage to walk anything at all (it did rain in my defense.)
- Graham text me early about something, but then we decided that we would run our errand to Walmart early this morning. We left around 8:30 and filled the shopping cart with things for his dorm room. I think that he enjoyed getting to spend a little bit of money.
- On the way home, we met Robby to fill up the cars with gas, and then Robby and Graham ran into the doughnut store to get Graham's birthday breakfast.
- The morning went by pretty quickly. I fried some hamburger meat and made some sourdough bread. It was pretty good because Anderson made the most beautiful grilled cheese on it. I even made some eggs for me to eat later this week.
- Robby and I were watching something on his computer when the storm rolled in. The thunder was pretty loud-Bentley was a little spooked and wanted to go upstairs. Marley was sleeping with her fan on so she missed most of it.
- We could tell that the power was going to go off because the lights started flickering. When it went off, Marley's fan stopped so she started whining. We got her out, and we all just watched the storm. It was dark and cozy in the house so I had me a short little nap.
- The rest of the afternoon was spent doing nothing until Campbell, Keaton, and Graham decided to play mah jong. I guess that their phones were about dead, but we played 2 rounds. Campbell and Keaton also played two rounds with me tonight-I might just have to invest in a mah jong table that stays out if we keep playing like we are now.
- Tonight we all went to Panda Express for Graham's birthday supper. Brooklyn and the Wilsons came with us but we still missed Reagan (work/camp) and Whitman (mission trip). After our supper, we all went to Menchies were we ran into the Smiths. David had everyone in the store sing Happy Birthday to Graham so that was fun.
- On the way home, a battery light came on on the van so Robby tried to figure that out. He thinks maybe he found a problem so he is crossing his fingers that he found the issue.
July 28, 2026
- Anderson and Graham were off first this morning. They stained Nonna and Pops' deck. I thought that it was going to take them longer than it did so they even managed to get lunch at Nonna's before leaving. Since they didn't take as long as I had thought, I hope that they did a good job.
- I have heard from Whitman every day. Today he wrote asking if he should get a mocha. I tried to remind him that the last time he tried coffee, he spit it out. But I also told him that it was good to try new things.
- He did try the coffee, and said that it tasted like foamy bean juice, and he threw it away. He also told me that he was never going to try anything new again.
- Campbell left at some point this afternoon to go to Starbucks and run a few errands. She came back with some grapes, post it notes, and cookie dough-but apparently she isn't sharing the cookie dough.
- Graham and I worked on his school things again today. He put together his shoe rack, and he said that he was excited about his shoe rack. He is also pretty excited about starting college in a few weeks.
- I made rice bowls for supper which everyone seemed to enjoy. Anderson had to eat his after he made it home from basketball. I saved him some chicken, but after Graham had his seconds, Anderson's portion was a little light.
July 27, 2026
- This is my last summer Monday so I tried to really enjoy it...though I didn't do anything special. Anderson left early this morning and finished his painting gig around 1:30. I think today he did get a little bit of sun burn, but he is done with the project so that is good.
- Even though Reagan is back at camp, I had a full laundry basket of her laundry plus everyone else's laundry to fold this morning. She only took half of her clothes back which is why so many were in the laundry still.
- Campbell went to lunch with a friend, and then I used her to pick up a few things that were on the walmart list. I just can't seem to wrap my mind around ordering Walmart things to come to the house. I do it occasionally, but yesterday, I knew I needed what Campbell got today so I could have ordered it to come this morning, but I never thought of that. It was fine though because Campbell enjoys spending money-especially someone else's.
- Brooklyn came over this afternoon, and Graham and she went to grab some chicken, but other than that it has been a slow afternoon. I even crocheted my whole square (I usually take 2 days to do one.)
- Campbell left to play pickleball, and then I heated up supper for everyone-meatball subs or manicotti. We have used about 10 jars of marinara in the last 2 weeks. Graham said that he has had enough red sauce. Graham and Brooklyn made ooey gooey for our dessert tonight.
- I took Keaton to volleyball this evening, and then the plan is for Campbell to bring her home when they are all done. I'm on the couch right now watching the dogs wrestle, and I;m thinking about taking a nap before Robby comes in to watch a show.
July 26, 2026
- I usually don't wake up before my alarm, but today I did because Reagan was moving around upstairs. It actually sounded like she was stomping around upstairs, but I think that she was just getting all of her bags ready to go.
- Reagan was already in the kitchen when I got up, so after Robby grabbed her a charger for her bus ride next wee, she was off for her last week of camp in Arkansas. Then she has one week of camp to work in Texas before she comes home for a week.
- When she left, Robby and I started getting ready, and soon everyone was heading to church. We still drove two cars since Campbell and Keaton like to get there early. After church was over, we headed to Grannymom's house, and while we were there we celebrated Graham's birthday a little bit early.
- I am home and started on my bread for tonight. Then I had myself a wonderful Sunday afternoon nap. It was long, and it was excellent. Then I had to get up and start on our supper. Campbell went to Rock Creek and then came home to pick up Keaton for volleyball with their friends.
- After we ate with the Wilsons, Shannon, Brett, Anderson, and Graham all played mah jong. We had to teach the boys, and they were all so close to winning, but Brett was the winner that round. I took Anderson's place for the next round, and Shannon won that hand.
- Campbell and Keaton came home pretty early this evening after their volleyball and Sonic. Now, I'm going to make my plan for the week. Oh, and Whitman has sent a few texts-they went to a water park today plus they have played a game and eaten ice cream.
July 25, 2026
- It was an early Saturday morning-Whitman had to be at church to leave on his mission trip for Starkville, Mississippi. He has his phone so I have text him a few times, and I think that he is enjoying it so far. It is a small group going, only 4 boys, but there are lots of adults with them.
- Anderson left next for his third day of painting at Jason's house. He said that he thinks he can finish in one more day. He has worked hard, but he says that he now knows that he is not going to pursue painting as a career.
- I picked Keaton up on my way home. Well, I barely picked Keaton up. I was busy having a conversation with myself in the car and drove on past the neighborhood that she had spent the night in. She had to text me!
- As we were heading home, we passed Graham who spent the day with Brooklyn. I think that they ran some errands and went on a walk. He even managed to swing having dinner with her family at U.S. Pizza. He is still out and about this evening.
- Reagan wrote saying that she was heading home for her day off and requested lunch and snacks for her last two weeks at work, so Robby and I dutifully headed out to grab a few things for her. We made it home a few minutes after Reagan and a few minutes after Anderson.
- This evening Campbell and Keaton went to pick up Sophia and then ran some errands. When they came home, we ended up playing 2 rounds of Mahjong-Sophia won both times! Now, I'm trying to get everyone to throw down their laundry so I can start laundry for the evening.
July 24, 2026
- Graham was up early this morning because he headed to Silver Dollar City with Brooklyn and her family. I had made him cookies last night plus he had some candy along with his lunch so he had some snacks for the car ride. He said that it wasn't horribly crowded, and he will get back pretty late tonight.
- After Graham left I started on my morning chores plus I even went on a walk today. I have new shoes for our upcoming trip so I tried them out. I think they are fine, but I'm just never good with getting new shoes-they always feel too tight at first.
- Campbell made it home in the early afternoon. She had spent the night at a friend's house and then went to eat lunch. She had a short afternoon since she had to leave early, so she stayed in while the rest of us headed to Nonna and Pops' house for a few minutes.
- We visited for a little bit and had some cookies before heading home. Campbell and Keaton left soon-Keaton had a birthday party while Campbell was babysitting. Anderson left later to go and play basketball which just left Whitman at home because Robby and I were running errands and even ran to Grannymom's for a minute.
- We are home now sitting on the couch watching the news and then probably our show....however, it is early and my eyes are already getting sleepy.
July 23, 2026
- It was a mighty fun day. Anderson was up first because he went to paint at Jason's house a little bit more. I tried to go back to bed after we made sure that Anderson was awake, but that didn't work, so I started my day.
- I had some people come over tonight so I had a house to clean-well, a house to straighten-or maybe just a few rooms to straighten. Plus this was a beautiful day so I even had time to take a walk.
- At one point today, I heard someone yell. I took notice of who was at home-Anderson was gone painting, Keaton was at a friend's house tanning, Campbell was out shopping for a birthday present. That just left Graham who was in the school room and Robby who was in his office.
- Robby came out of his office when we heard the yell again, and we look out and there is a man yelling in our driveway. We figured that he was calling a dog, and sure enough as I was walking out to check his wife came from the backyard with their puppy who had escaped. It was sure an interesting way to meet a neighbor.
- Tonight a few of the homeschool moms came over, and we even ended up teaching one of them mahjong. That was a hoot because really when you play the game, it is so full of rules, and she felt like we were making all of the rules up as we went along.
- When they all left at midnight, I made cookies for Graham to take on his outing to Branson tomorrow, and now it is time to start on the laundry.
July 22, 2026
- This morning we took the mini van to the repair shop to fix the air conditioner-it just was a little fix, but that car has spent quite a bit time at the mechanic's place. It's been a bit of a dud! However, today's fix was just 50 dollars, but it is more of a patch than a true fix.
- Robby and I then came home and pulled the weeds in the flower bed. We had let it get bad, but it took us less than 30 minutes so it wasn't horrible.
- Thankfully, it was a little bit cooler this morning. Anderson left when we did to go and paint some on Jason's house. He was there until lunch time when it started getting super hot. He was pleased with what he had finished, but he is heading back tomorrow for more painting.
- Graham and I went to the dentist for his last filling. On our way home, we stopped at Kroger and then to pick up Graham's free birthday bundt cake. He was anxious to get home because his new phone was on the way....though it didn't arrive until the evening.
- Campbell went to eat with some friends and then she showed up at volleyball about the same time that I dropped off Keaton to meet her friends there. Robby and I ran some errands tonight and had some pizza before coming home.
- Now, we are back on the couch watching a few episodes of our current binge show.
July 21, 2026
- Last night was a late night, so we all slept in a bit again this morning. I had intended to pull the weeds in the front yard yesterday, but I certainly knew that I wasn't going to do this morning when I took the dogs out for the bathroom first thing.
- I didn't even walk since it is so hot outside, and really that isn't even an excuse since I have a treadmill. Graham did run outside for a minute yesterday, and then finished on the treadmill, but today he just did all of his run on the treadmill.
- Keaton left first today to go to a friend's house to sun tan. She drove me there, and then Robby and I picked her up later in the day after running a few errands. We picked up food for Thursday's meal and even planned ahead some for next week.
- Tonight everyone left the house-I went to Mahjong (where I won one game), Keaton and Campbell went to Bible study and then to eat and Walmart. Graham went to Bible study and then to a friend's baseball game. Whitman went to Bible study, and then Robby picked him up to go eat pizza. Anderson went to swim at a friend's house.
- If you are keeping count-that is 5 different places but there are only 4 cars here. Anderson had let Robby have his car so he ended up having to get a ride tonight. It all worked out though-Campbell is actually on the way home now with her gas light on. She was a bit stressed about it, so I'm watching to make sure that she does indeed have plenty of gas!
July 20, 2026
- Marley was the first one awake this morning. She didn't know that we all stayed up until 2 last night or she didn't care. Actually, Marley is sleeping on the couch right now so I really should jus wake her up since we sure aren't going to bed anytime soon.
- I had a pretty long list of things to finish today, and at least I tried! I did manage to make some cheese foccacia bread that must have been a hit-we ate all of it within 15 minutes.
- Cambpell, Keaton, and Graham went to eat with some church folks for lunch. Then they went to play pickleball for a little bit. Apparently, my kids are immune to the heat because Anderson worked on in the middle of the day, and later I believe that Graham ran some. This evening Campbell and Graham went to play volleyball.
- Robby and I ran a few errands tonight, and when we came home Whitman was waiting at the door for our pizza leftovers. He and Anderson had the leftovers split and eaten before I was able to unload the groceries.
- We are now sitting on the couch watching a new tv series for us. I just finished a book and after another one to start if this tv show gets boring.
July 19, 2026-Dennie Family Trip 2026
We woke up this morning and started working to get things ready to go. I text the girls and Whitman to make sure that they were awake. Whitman later said that he had set his alarm and woke with it so he was pleased with himself.
After getting myself ready, I walked to the little cabin, and the girls and Whitman had everything loaded up and sitting by the door. Soon Anderson picked up Grannymom and took her to check us all out. Then he picked up Graham and then Keaton. They were a little bit ahead of us until they stopped in Clinton for ice cream at McDonalds. Then they passed us when we stopped at a gas station on the way home.
Our trip home was smooth sailing. We had Campbell and Whitman with us and arrived just a few minutes after the kids. Everyone helped unload the camper and soon we were done outside. Usually, I try to do a few things inside and then a few things in the camper, but it was just so hot today that we finished the camper quickly so we could be inside.
Once Marley was taking her nap and clothes were in the washers and dryers, I had myself a short nap. Then I folded laundry and changed clothes from the washer to the dryer for the rest of the afternoon and early evening.
Graham left first to play volleyball while Campbell left next. I'm not really sure where all she went. The rest of us headed to the Wilson's for a good home cooked meal. We ate and visited while the kids played a few games. We came home around 10, and there is still laundry to work on.
July 18, 2026-Dennie Family Trip 2026
This morning started out with breakfast at Les' cabin. They had breakfast casserole and cinnamon rolls. It was all very good. Then we immediately started on lunch-at least making our sack lunches for our float.
We walked a little bit with the dogs, and then it was time to kick getting ready for our float trip into high gear. We had our two ice chests backpacks-one with drinks and the other one with our lunches. Most of us too had our phones in a case around neck (though I never used mine)
All of our group went on the float trip except for Grannymom and Dana They stayed back to hang out at the pool and then to greet us when we floated in. We met at the office where they gave us a brief orientation, and then it was on to vans to our drop off point.
There were 14 of us plus four other people in the two busses. We drove to Rim Shoals which was about 15 minutes away, and then we put our kayaks in. (Les and Cash both had canoes.) When we first started the float, I was thinking that we might could have done the longer one.
By the end, I was glad that we were only doing the short float. It took us 3 and a half hours to make it back. Pretty soon after starting, we stopped at a lunch spot. It was shaded and perfectly nice. The water was ice cold, and there was often a breeze so it was pretty pleasant....except for knowing that the sun was absolutely frying us.
My arms and face feel a little burned, and I think that Robby and Graham did fairly well too. Everyone else are varying shades of pink-Whitman's arms, Anderson's legs, Campbell's entire self, and I can't really remember about Keaton, but I think that her face a was a bit pink.
The kayak trip was really pretty-especially the last little bit where the bluff was beside us. Towards the very end, I was beginning to think about waving (or even winking-whatever it took) at a fisherman to get a ride back. Once we realized where we were, we were so close to being back.
Most of the kids rated the kayak trip as a 7 out of 10, so that is a definite win for sure. After taking the dogs out, Campbell, Robby, and I took Bentley and Marley to swim in the river. They just aren't swimmers! Bentley does not like to get her feet off the ground-she is fine in the water as long as she can touch...like me. Marley did swim some, but she was just trying to get to Campbell and even scratched Robby trying to get back to safety.
After this, we got ready and met everyone at Salsa's Grill in Mountain Home. It was fine Mexican food-I always want to try something new when I eat out, but really I should just get something that I know that I will like-enchiladas for example.
After eating, we met back at Les' cabin to take a family picture. Then we loaded up a few things and headed back towards our camper. Whitman did run over to our camper to eat ice cream, but then Robby and I walked the dogs back to their cabin for a bit. Now, we are all in our beds, and I think that the big boys are sound asleep!
July 17, 2026-Dennie Family Trip 2026
We slept in a good bit this morning or at least I did. We did get up and quietly walk the dogs. The scenery is beautiful so Robby and I even sat on our bed for a while this morning just looking out the back window-we were playing on our phones of course too but still enjoying the scenery.
Keaton went to the pool pretty much as soon as she woke up. Whitman stirred after Keaton, but he said that he wasn't going to the pool. He then had lunch, and I guess Keaton convinced him because he put on his bathing suit and headed out.
Robby and I walked the dogs and then sat on the porch by the pool and office. We were in the shade and under the fans so it was pleasant. We thought we heard thunder, and sure enough on our walk back we could tell that a storm was rolling in.
And roll in it did. I had picked up my phone to text Keaton to say that a storm was coming when I saw that they were walking back. No sooner did they get back than the bottom fell out-it was a storm, and maybe the thunder was louder because we were near the bluff/mountain/hill/whatever.
Soon though the rain cleared and not only did the sun show up, but so did Anderson, Graham, Campbell, and Grannymom. Robby and I met them at the office and got everyone checked in. First, we stopped at Whitman and the girls' cabin. It is a narrow one room cabin with a little kitchenette area, couch, bathroom, and bed. It is actually pretty nice.
Then it was on to scope out Les' cabin. It is the nicest by far, and then we sat in Grannymom's cabin for a bit. Soon everyone started showing up. Dana had pizza for our supper, and we all hung out at Les' cabin. He has a wonderful screened in porch so our dogs and Les' dogs all hung out there.
After supper we visited quite a bit and then all took a walk around the campground. It was a pleasant evening after the rain, and now for bed!
July 16, 2026-Dennie Family Trip 2026 (an early start)
- I woke up and took a super short shower and then headed to pick up Keaton since she had spent the night at a friend's house. Once we were home, I did the laundry and woke up Whitman. Then a little bit after 9, it was time to head out.
- Keaton and Whitman joined us on this leg of the trip. We had no problems at all and drove right to Blanchard Springs State Park-Blanchard Springs is actually not yet officially a state park because (if I understand correctly) the law says that Arkansas can only have 52 state parks so they have to vote to change that.
- However, if I would have known that is the case, I could have suggested a few state parks that should be downgraded and lose their state park status-Lower White River Museum is the first one that comes to my mind.
- Anyway, I sure didn't write any of my thoughts down because no telling who would read them. We still counted this visit as a State Park visit, and Robby and I have been to 13 in the last 2 months and since 2020 we have visited 43 of the 53.
- Robby and I think that the last time we were at Blanchard Springs was when we were in 4th or 5th grades for a school field trip. We have been a lot of caves and even a lot of National Park caves, but this one is pretty impressive.
- We had even thought about not taking the tour, but I'm glad that we did. It was an hour tour and was pretty interesting. I did tell Robby that the older I get, the more educational things, like caves, interest me.
- From the cave, we just had a little over an hour of curvy roads to get to the White Buffalo Resort. We are right next to the river and have a very nice view. Everyone else will be pretty far away, but we will have a car so it will work out.
- Keaton and Whitman didn't waste any time and headed to the pool as soon as they could. Robby and I settled and then took the dogs on a walk. Before too long it was supper time-chicken pasta. Then Keaton, Robby, and I went exploring a little bit.
- Now we are all back in the camper-Whitman had some ice cream, Keaton had some muddy buddies, and Robby and I will have ice cream soon.
July 15, 2026-Happy 26th Anniversary
- I had big plans this morning to pull all of the weeds in the flower beds. There are currently more weeds than plants, so I had my work cut out for me. However, the rain saved me today. I was not expecting rain at all, so I was pleasantly surprised.
- Anderson and Graham left early this morning to go and earn a little bit of money. They moved some metal from one house boat to another place. They were paid and even got lunch out of the deal. They even drove through Mount Ida and were fairly close to Reagan though they didn't go by her camp.
- Robby left pretty early to do some shopping for this weekend. While he was gone, I did a few things around the house, and then I started working on redoing my plan for Keaton's history. I was able to do half of the lessons for her history, so I was pleased with my progress.
- This afternoon Keaton drove me to meet Robby to get gas. Then we went to Hobby Lobby where she bought a shirt, and then we went to Platos where neither one of us found anything at all. She enjoyed our trip especially since I let her drive most of the time.
- I made the boys' favorite supper tonight-meatball subs. I actually think that everyone likes them-I probably could make them weekly with no complaints. After Anderson ate, he left for basketball. He was gone for a little while and came back soaking because they played in the rain part of the time.
- I then took Keaton to a party tonight. She is even going to spend the night so she was excited about that, plus she was excited that I let her drive there too. Now, Robby and I are trying to watch our show that we didn't finish last night, but our ice cream is in the camper so I'm not sure what our anniversary dessert will be.
July 14, 2026-Quick Trip to Edgewood
Robby was the first one awake today. He had already walked Marley by the time that I stirred. It wasn't too long after that he left so he could get some internet and do some work. While he was gone, I finished the book that I was reading and then brushed the dogs.
As soon as Robby finished his calls, he came back, and we started loading up. It didn't take long before we were on the road. I stopped at a few gas stations on the way home so I made it home a few minutes after he did. I'm listening to a really good book so I even drove a little bit slower on Springhill so I could listen to more of it.
When we came home, the camper wasn't that difficult to clean-all of the food stayed in except a handful of things plus we left the fridge on. Then all of our un-worn clothes stayed in there as well, so there really wasn't too much to do. I still had about 4 loads of clothes to wash (clothes from camper, clothes from here, towels and sheets from camper).
Overall, unpacking from this trip didn't take long at all. Usually, on the days that we get home, we are pretty worn out when we finished, but not today. We had a ton of packages to open when we came home. This weekend Keaton had a friend over who was intrigued by all of our packages and intrigued because all of our food was big (thanks Sams and Costco).
For supper I heated up some taquitos and as soon as Graham was finished he headed out for the night. Anderson tried to get people to play basketball, but he had no takers; however, it looks like it is going to rain now though.
July 13, 2026-Quick Trip to Edgewood
Robby and I slept as long as Marley would let us this morning. He had actually taken her on a walk around the loop before I did get out of bed. Soon I was up and ready and joined him for the long loop with Bentley.
Robby had to work a good bit today, and with the internet being pretty spotty it was sometimes difficult. He even had to drive down the road a little bit so he could send some things. Since the internet is so weak, I spent a lot of time crocheting, listening to my book, and reading. I started one book yesterday have read more than half of it already.
Whitman has had less problems with the internet than the rest of us. We have been able to watch a few shows every night though. It is certainly good to slow down, but I think that I was about to go a little bit stir crazy! I even tried to think how I could make some extra money, but then I just decided that I would do better making a list of things that I need to buy.
This evening, Campbell wrote asking if we would bring her some Sonic, and when one of your babies writes for ice cream, you get them ice cream. We delivered her and Laynie Sonic and chatted with them for a good bit., I think that Campbell is enjoying camp...it is only the first day though.
When we left them, we had to hurry back to Sonic to buy Whitman a drink. Then back at the camper, I'm working on the blog and next I might do some more reading!
July 12, 2026-Quick Trip to Edgewood
We woke up and did our morning walk. It was much cooler this morning-well, maybe not much cooler, but it wasn't nearly as sticky outside. While we were on our walk, Campbell and Keaton headed to church first. They had to do the doors and get there early. Then Anderson and Graham went next. When church ended, they ate Sunday lunch with Grannymom.
Robby and I had our breakfast after our walk. Then I went to work crocheting-I have finished 2 squares on this camping trip, finished 1 book, and finished one audio book. Plus tomorrow I'll finish the book I brought about Utah's National parks.
We did go to the state park this afternoon to walk around a little bit. We were surprised at how sad the gift shops were-especially at the visitor's center. It really needed some help. We then came back, and I eventually made supper-taquitos.
Then we played Forbidden Island-a board game. We actually played twice because the lost the game almost immediately. Then we read some more, and now I've come back to the bed and possibly will take my shower soon
July 11, 2026-Quick Trip to Edgewood
Let me briefly recap the kids' day: Campbell was the first one out the door this morning. She went with a friend to Lake Degray. We suggested that she come and pick us up, but she did not. When she came home, she went to eat and then made her way to Keaton who is babysitting. Anderson made sure that Keaton made it to babysitting since Graham was gone. He went to the zoo with Brooklyn and then a few other places. We have limited internet so keeping track with everyone is a bit more difficult than usual.
Marley was again the first one awake this morning. I heard her and needed to go to the bathroom, but she would hear me then, so I just laid in bed until I fell back asleep. When Robby and I did get up, we took the dogs on a walk.
Mid morning Reagan text reminding me that this was her day off and that she was going to head to Hot Springs for a bit before going to her friend's birthday party. I told her that we were at Degray and she could come and join us. I was surprised when she said that she was one the way to come and see us-she did check on our food level before coming!
She came and visited for a while before going back towards Hot Springs. She is loving the age group that she has right now and is excited about the rest of the week. She has 4 more weeks of camp and then one week at home before she heads back to school.
We walked quite a bit today, and we have re-diagnosed my sore foot to possibly planter fascitis. Robby said Grannymom would have some stretches for me when we get back. With our walking today, I hope that I didn't irritate it too much, but it is already so much better than it was Thursday. (Though I'm still favoring it.)
Tonight we ran to Sonic to pick up Whitman a hamburger, and then Robby and I came home to eat leftover bbq. We have just had our trip ice cream and are settling in for the night.
July 10, 2026-Quick Trip to Edgewood
I woke up to a text from Campbell saying that she had been sick last night, so I spent a good bit of time early this morning wondering about her and going over all of the contingency plans for the stomach bug to run through the household.
Thankfully though it was just one event, so possibly it was just something she ate or a fluke. I was greatly relieved when she did wake up and say that she was fine. Since my foot was still a bit sore, but much improved, I didn't go on my walk this morning so I had some extra time. I should have been more productive, but I wasn't!
Robby went to the store, and I even napped a bit while he was gone. Then we kicked things up in high gear getting ready to leave, until we realized that one of the freezers in the garage was a bit warm. We moved things just to be safe since we were leaving, but we think it had been left open plus when it is blazing hot outside and in the garage it probably takes some time to cool off. Keaton just checked the temperature and all was more back to normal.
Whitman, Robby, and I headed to Edgewood for a few minutes. On the way there, we stopped at a gas station for a mystery shop. Robby went in and I also went in with him; I was driving the van. Whitman stayed in the camper with the dogs, and Robby told him he would be back shortly.
The shop had Robby go in the bathroom, buy something from the gas station, and order a sandwich. While we were inside, we just sat down to eat. After a bit, Whitman text Robby to ask when he was coming back. Robby replied asking if he was good. Whitman wrote back that he was fine but just wanted to make sure that Robby was not dead. We assured him that we were fine, but it is always good to check!
Edgewood is a bit more primitive than Degray, but it is fine though our internet is pretty limited even with the Starlink. Robby and I even went all out and set up the tent and lights. The Smiths came, and after a bit Carter asked Whitman to go to the lake with them.
Robby and I walked the dogs there too while Whitman and Carter swam for almost an hour. They stayed until it was dark out while we talked to Whitney. We came back, and Whitman ate his supper after his shower. Now, we are all just waiting until it is ice cream time!
July 9, 2026
- Marley was the one who woke up first this morning. She whined a good bit while Robby and I tried to lay really still in bed so maybe she would go back to sleep and we could too. That didn't happen though.
- Soon after we got out of bed, Robby started cooking a pork for our supper tonight...and after eating tonight, this pork will apparently be our supper for many, many more suppers.
- My heel has been hurting recently, but today it felt better so I started on my walk. I made it about a half mile before I realized it wasn't as better as I thought. I'm stubborn and still walked my entire walk, but currently, I have an ice pack that I'm alternating between my heel and my knee. I banked the mess out of my knee while taking a load of things to put in the camper. I've aged by 20 years just today!
- Robby and I went to Costco this afternoon to walk around. Then I ran into Walmart to pick up some canvases for Graham. Next, we met Anderson, Campbell, Keaton, and Whitman at Top Golf. We played for a long time, and we even stayed almost the whole 2 hours. That is a long time for us plus it is super, super hot at Top Golf.
- We came home, and soon Brooklyn came over for supper. Graham and Brooklyn painted two different canvases tonight switching every few minutes. I think that Brooklyn must have done most of the painting because they both really look good.
- For supper we had Robby's delicious pork, my baked beans which I can never make as good as my moms, fries and ooey gooey for dessert. Anderson missed supper because he was playing basketball. Campbell also missed supper because she was quick to jump at an invitation to go out to eat-she thought that we were having something else for supper!
- Now, Robby and I are sitting on the couch with two sleeping puppies. Maybe we will even have some ice cream tonight!
July 8, 2026
- Robby and I woke up and took the minivan to the repairman this morning. I did get myself ready, but Robby ran that errand in his pajamas. It does help that the repairman is just about a mile down the road from us.
- Campbell made it home mid morning. She had spent the night at a friend's house, and one of their cars were broken into. Campbell heard the car alarm and thought that it was her car's alarm so she started hitting the button-this probably scared the folks away and saved her from getting a window broken. She even documented the adventure with pictures-the mom getting up, the police coming, the dad ordering more cameras for the house before he went back to bed.
- I have hurt the bottom of my foot somehow so I didn't walk today. I will walk tomorrow (I'm writing that so you will hold me to it.) I actually miss walking because I don't get to listen to my book too much if I don't take a walk.
- This afternoon I went with Robby to pick up the minivan and then get gas in a few of the cars. When we came home I finished playing a game with Whitman-we have played the same game 3 days in a row.
- Campbell left for a birthday this evening, and then I took Keaton to a 4th of July party. Oh, and Graham actually left first to go and hang out with Brooklyn. Robby and I went to the Fergie's house for some ice cream this evening.
- Anderson was gracious enough to pick up Keaton for me, and he even brought Bentley along for the ride. (Anderson is pretty meticulous about keeping his car clean, so letting a hairy dog ride in his car is something.)
July 7, 2026
- Robby and I started watching a tv show last night, and we ended up watching 7 and a half of the 8 episodes. I was set to watch them all even though we would have been up until 3, but Robby got a bit sleepy.
- Don't worry though because we finished the last one and a half episodes this morning. And yes, even though we didn't stay up practically all night, it was still difficult to wake up this morning.
- Campbell was the first one awake this morning since she had to babysit. When she was finished she ran some errands, and then when she came home she ran to see Grannymom and then ran some more errands with Keaton.
- Tonight, everyone went a few places-Campbell, Keaton, Whitman, and Graham went to Raymar for a Bible study. Then Graham went to Sonic with some friends while Campbell, Keaton, and Whitman went to Hurricane to play volleyball.
- I left when the first group left to go and play mahjong at the church house. Shannon came with me, and I certainly had fun. Anderson left after the rest of us went to a friend's house to play basketball. He said that they played basketball for a good while.
- I picked up Whitman on my way home, and Keaton stayed to play more volleyball. Now those three are all at Sonic and hopefully, they will start trickling home soon!
July 6, 2026
- Robby and I were awake early this morning because we were getting new internet. I started on the things around the house, and eventually the internet man came. I put Marley up and took a short walk.
- Then I hurried home so Robby could run some errands. While he was gone, I managed the two internet worker people and the two dogs. This was the most challenging thing I did all day. Eventually, Marley was exhausted from being drug around the house on the leash with me and from not being able to sleep because she was worried about the people outside.
- When Marley did sleep, I was able to crochet a bit and play a game with Whitman while the internet man finished up. Of course after the new internet was installed, we all spent some time investigating if it was really faster.
- Keaton, Campbell, and Graham all went to eat with the youth from church. Graham made it home first even after playing pickleball for a while. Campbell and Keaton ended up getting Starbucks and Seven Brew plus a trip to Menchies and Target. With all of their stops, they made it home after Graham.
- Tonight, Graham and Anderson went to play basketball, and a bit later Campbell went to play volleyball. Last night at volleyball she laid down her best pair of glasses, and when she went back to pick them up, they were not there. Thankfully, she does have a few extra pairs to get her through.
- Robby and I are sitting on the couch watching some of the World Cup right now though we may change the final to something a bit more exciting and a bit less stressful.
July 5, 2026
- We struggled to find seats this morning at church-there were offering baskets saving every row. We might just have to start getting there earlier which would make the girls very happy. They are never pleased with how early we leave for church even though we always get there at least 15 minutes early.
- We didn't have Sunday school today because of the holiday so when church was over we visited for a bit and then headed to Nonna and Pops for Sunday lunch. They had hamburgers and all of the fixings. We ate and visited, and then we headed home because it was a busy afternoon for the kids.
- Keaton and I left first to run to Walmart for her to buy a birthday present for one of her friends. While we were gone, Robby and Anderson washed the cars that were left at the house. Then not too long after we got home, Anderson and Graham left all dressed up for a wedding.
- Campbell left next to go to a party and then she went to another place to watch fireworks-while she was there, she did lose her glasses, but she does have another pair plus she has a coupon to order another pair. She did the right thing and went back to look and spoke to a worker, but I think that she was a bit bummed about it.
- Robby took Keaton to her party next. She ended up at the same fireworks that Campbell was at so they played some volleyball with all of their friends and are now on their way home. When Robby returned from taking Keaton, he worked outside for a bit, but then the Wilsons came over for our Sunday night supper.
- There was only 4 of us eating, so we had way too much food, but we might eventually eat it. The boys and Brett all came back from their wedding and told us all about it. They all stayed for a while, and now we are just waiting on the girls to come in and everyone will be in for the night.
July 4, 2026-Happy 250th Birthday America!
- I had quite a long list of things that I wanted to accomplish today, and I was still pretty tired and sore when I woke up (I had an incredibly long list of ailments-my shoulder hurt, I had a blister, my ankle hurt, my ear was itchy, and my neck was sore) I still went right to work, and everything thankfully worked itself out.
- My list was long, and I thought that it would take me most of the day. However, I zoomed through my list and even completely reloaded the camper while Robby was shopping. Then it started raining and since my list was done, it was rest time for me and Marley.
- When Robby came home, Campbell helped me make brownies, and Keaton helped me make muddy buddies. Robby also helped me make a dip for tonight. Since we had everything ready to go, I sat back on the couch and watched some soccer before getting ready to go.
- Tonight's festivities happened at the Wilson's house. There were lots of people there, and the rain ended just in time. We were able to be outside, and goodness, the food was plentiful. After we ate, there was quite a bit of visiting.
- Then it was time for fireworks, and there were so many. The show was great and pretty loud! It was a great end to the holiday!
July 3, 2026-Plant Mission Trips and More State Parks
Robby and I were up early this morning moving around the camper quietly so we wouldn't wake up Marley (she definitely heard us) and so we wouldn't wake up Whitman (it would take a bomb to wake him up.) Robby worked on the outside, and I worked on the inside, and soon we were hooking the car up.
We had about an hour drive to our 8th state park to visit on this trip. Robby had read that it was one of the smallest state parks, and indeed it was. I scoped out a nearby church for us to park out, so we parked there, woke Whitman up, and walked to Lower White River State Park.
It took us all of about 10 minutes to walk around the museum in the park and that included me going to the bathroom. This place was so small that they didn't even have a bathroom. I believe that we were the first visitors that had come through today. And yes, when I handed the visitor center worker my passport book to stamp, I was very careful that he didn't have my book long enough to read any of the words that I had written-I didn't want to get in trouble again.
Then we had around another hour until we made it home. Robby and I went to work-he always talks about how he possibly has ADD when he works in the yard, and I feel that way about when I work emptying the camper. Today, he got out the tractor to put up the tow dolly and ended up mowing the yard. And as I worked in the camper, I would take one load in the house and then work in the house for a bit before going back for my next load. It took us longer to finish fluttering around doing all of the things, but when we were done the camper was empty and clean, the yard was mowed, and the house was straight and fairly clean.
Robby ran a few errands, and then he picked up Graham from the airport. He landed around 4, and the boy had stayed up all night since they had to wake up at 3 this morning to get to the airport. Graham came in and took a nap, and now he went to play basketball with Anderson-and no, I didn't let him drive.
Robby dropped Graham off at home then I left with him to pick up the girls. We were home long enough to get Graham's clothes in the washer. They are now dry and folded ready for him to put up. The girls arrived around 5:30, and we brought them home and ate supper.
Campbell was able to stay at home until about 7:30, and then she missed her people too much and went to meet everyone to play volleyball. Keaton thought about going too, but I think that she was too tired, or maybe she just missed Bentley and wanted to stay home with her.
I'm sitting on the couch with my feet up on a pillow-my feet are tired today! Robby just walked by the window with the blower, Campbell is at volleyball, Graham and Anderson are at basketball, and Reagan left this morning to go back to camp for the rest of the summer.
July 2, 2026-Plant Mission Trips and More State Parks
So we will start with the story of the day...we were at Parkin State Park, and I had the ranger at the desk stamp my little passport book. As he handed it back to me, he said, "Have y'all been to a lot of parks today?" We politely answered telling him about our trip.
Then he asked, "Why does Lake Poinsett need a little TLC?" So as he was stamping my passport book, he read my comment from the park right above: "Quaint park but needs some TLC." It has a few lines to write, but I just write a few words about each park. He continued by saying, "The reason I ask is because I'm the Assistant Park Superintendent for Lake Poinsett."
I believe that I could have died right then and there. I guess I will be much more careful about what I write. We told him exactly why we had both agreed that park did need some TLC-road conditions, campsite maintenance, trial signage. He was nice, but I think I hurt his feeling some.
From now on I will not write anything negative about anything again! Ha! He was a nice guy though and showed us some pottery from the park and taught Robby and Whitman how to throw the atlatl (an Indian spear type thing) Whitman was able to throw it pretty good on his second try while Robby didn't make it as far as Whitman. Then we went on a 3/4 mile walk around the mounds in the blazing sun-it was hot!
And yes, when we left Parkin State Park, I wrote in my passport book, "A sunny Toltec mounds."
Back to the main part of the day-we again had a little bit of a slow morning. Robby and I walked to the horse camp area. They have lots of campsites, plus they have 3 huge stables to keep horses in. It was completely empty, but I would love to see it when it is full of horses.
Then we loaded up for our Parkin State Park visit. It was about 30 minutes away from us, and we just stopped there before coming home. When we made it home, Whitman immediately took a shower because he was so hot from our walk.
Then for the rest of the afternoon we just vegged out. I crocheted and read and napped. It was wonderful. We all played SkyJo for two rounds before cleaning out the fridge for our supper. Once again, we have eaten not really any of our meals that we have brought to eat-I take that back, we have eaten our two frozen meals. So I'm not really sure how we had enough leftovers in the fridge to eat for supper tonight.
Robby and I just got back from a walk to the cabins that we stayed out about 10 years ago on the Dennie family trip. Now, he is picking up some outside things, and we are about to eat tonight's ice cream-yes, we weren't too concerned with our suppers on this trip because we brought a pint of Ben and Jerry's ice cream for every night!
July 1, 2026-Plant Mission Trips and More State Parks
(Click for today's pictures)
I woke up at 3 to go to the bathroom, and the light beside Robby was on. He hadn't noticed, but the sheet was wrapped around his head. By the time I came back from the bathroom, Robby was awake and looking at me trying to figure out why I turned on his light. I assured him that I don't even know how to turn his light on, but this morning he figured out that the power must have blinked last night which causes his light to come on when the power comes back on.
Robby and I walked a little bit this morning. We were going to walk on one section of the road, but it was already in the sun so we opted to walk the other way. This section was down and then up a big hill, but there was some shade, so it wasn't horrible.
We came back, woke up Whitman, and headed off to Hampson Archaeological State Park. It took us about an hour to get there. First we walked around the state park-it was a nice little museum about the Indian things found in the area.
However, what was so neat in this town (Wilson, Arkansas) was that everything around the town square was built in Tudor style-there is a really nice restaurant plus a swanky hotel. We just walked inside of it really quickly. Also, there is a store that we browsed around too. I think the town has had few wealthy investors who have fixed it up-they really talked up their Christmas decorations and their spring tulips too.
We then went back to Lake Poinsett (I think that is where we were) and collected the camper. It took less than an hour to get to Village Creek State Park. Robby and I went in the visitor's center when we got here, and then we drove on to our spot. We are close to the lake, but we are in full sun which has been fine.
Whitman did some reading, and then we drove all around Village Creek. We drove up and down every road in this park. After that we drove to Wynne-there we stopped to get a pizza, pick up a burger, and to get gas. The dogs came along for this trip, and it was quite successful. Marley used to be pretty terrified of the car, but she has really gotten used to it.
When we came back to the camper, we ate our supper. Then Whitman and I played a game which we lost. I crocheted some and right when it was about to rain, Robby and I took the dogs on a short walk. It only rained for about 10 minutes, so far.
Now, we are all getting ready for bed and getting ready for our nightly ice cream!
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