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- This morning we heard Campbell, Graham and Reagan talking way before 7. They eventually got quiet and soon Graham came downstairs to tell us that Reagan was getting Campbell out of bed-I told him that was fine and silently did a happy dance. Later, as Campbell was laying in my bed she also told me that Reagan changed her diaper too. Now this kind of made me feel bad that Reagan did this but I think she would do anything to get Campbell and everyone else out of her room in the mornings so she can sleep for a few more minutes.
- So Graham was laying in our bed this morning and took off his shirt because he was hot. Campbell then took off hers because she was cold. I told them that when company came this morning he would have to put his shirt back on. So later when the doorbell rang, he walked to the door while putting his shirt back on-sweet little guy.
- Thought that sweet little guy quickly turned into a little boy that was having to talk to his Daddy on the phone. I don't think I have ever called Robby to get on to the kids from work but this was one of those days. I don't know if Graham was tired, felt left out while Reagan and Kennedy played or just decided that he was going to torment me. After talking to Robby he calmed a bit and I had him watch a movie for a bit too and that also helped. But it was pretty dicey most of the morning long.
- Anderson had spent the morning and night at Grannymom and Grandpa's house. They said that he was the perfect child and was probably enjoying some individual attention. He did some of his school work including a science experiment at Grannymom's house and had plenty of time to play before Robby picked him up. He was also so excited to ask me what our science experiment did here-freezing fresh and salt water to see which froze quicker. He was so happy that his water did the exact same thing that ours did.
- Kennedy went home around 3 and we kicked things into high gear around here. We worked on getting the house ready for tonight, cooking my food and doing school. We did everything but science, geography and history so I think that is a pretty good day.
- Before long people were showing up for our supper get together-the kids were in heaven with Sara Ashley, Lane, Brett, Anna to play with them. Reagan did even play her first round of truth or dare. Graham was so tired that he had fallen asleep in our bed before everyone left. When everyone was leaving, it was raining and the kids all had a blast getting soaking wet-especially Campbell who was still going strong after 10.
- Tonight, Anderson did read to Ms. Alicia who teachers kindergarten and he got a thumbs up from her. Now the child wasn't going to read to her but I did offer him a dollar if he did so he was thrilled to earn his money. Tonight as we were getting him in to bed he asked Robby what kind of dollar he was going to get, a 20?
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| Sibling Love! |
(click here for today's pictures)
- We woke up a bit later than we should have this morning so Robby had to take Graham since I didn't have time to drop everyone else off at Grannymom's house and then get Graham to school on time. Graham said that he didn't want to go to school but this evening I asked what his favorite part of the day was and he said it was going to school.
- Yesterday Anderson had told me that he wanted to take his reading book to Grannymom's house to show off a bit of his reading skills. But I told him that I had already packed other work and he didn't respond. This morning in the car when I told everyone about their work that I had packed, he just started to cry and was so upset that I had brought the wrong thing. But this evening when we loaded him up a few things to do tomorrow at Grannymoms he didn't even want to take that silly reading book.
- Nonna picked up Graham after school and he enjoyed building with her blocks before lunch. He was even able to play some this afternoon before Robby picked him up. Earlier Robby was running an errand in WLR and picked up the other crew-they were all so excited to get upstairs and start playing with their toys when they made it home.
- Soon we had school and most importantly snack (to the kids at least). And before too long it was time for cheerleading signup. I had bunko so Robby braved the hurricane and his swollen eye (all red and swollen-maybe got something in it mowing last night).
- They made it to church in time to try on the uniforms, meet her coach, find out when practice was (same time as boy's practice) and run around and play. Anderson was very excited to be at the cheerleading meeting because he knew that his next stop was upstairs to watch Grannymom finish aerobics and then head home with her.
- At home, the kids watched a movie before bed and went to bed without too much of a fuss.
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- So this morning started out with only one catastrophe so I guess I can't complain. After breakfast and a little memory work from school, Reagan took off saying she was going "to do my math." Math is usually not something that she runs to go and do but I didn't think too much about it. Then I walked into the schoolroom and that child was sitting with her math worksheets doing them on the calculator. I am sure that I started saying "no" as I walked into the door but she replied with "but Daddy said that I could." And yes, when Robby opened the mail last night he gave Reagan the calculator and showed her how to use it and said "you can do this when Momma gives you a math problem." Well, Reagan knew that I had just given her 2 pages of math problems so she was well onto problem number 3 with her calculator. I told her that she could do 4 with the calculator, check her work and fix her mistakes with the calculator but this caused tears to come. Finally she calmed and was okay with getting to do some with the calculator and calmed (Meanwhile, I had a few words with her Daddy!)
- Then Anderson asked if he could use the calculator so I did agree to this. Of course this infuriated Reagan and when I tried to explain that Anderson was holding his phonics worksheets while asking for the calculator. Then he figured out that he should have his math and started diligently pushing buttons on the calculator while doing his math. Now his math does not require the usage of a calculator-just counting, matching numbers, saying numbers outloud-but he used it the whole time he was working on math.
- Then that silly calculator was passed to Campbell. She typed, poked, punched and probably slammed so when Reagan tried to turn the calculator on to check her math, it didn't work. Surprisingly no one was too devastated and I silently did a little happy dance. During this whole fiasco, I must have muttered something about Daddy doing school with everyone and this created a clamor of everyone begging that Daddy having school with them. I quite often mention that if things aren't finished with me then they will be completed when their Daddy comes home but this was different. I could see their little eyes glazing over thinking about having a substitute teacher-you know the kind, like the ones that let you use your calculator on your math homework.
- After school, it was lunch time and time for more reading. Next up, the kids emptied the trash around the house (the chore that I love them doing the most) and then we moved on to doing laundry. The are good about folding the towels quickly and then things always go downhill. Anderson resorted to piling all of the laundry on himself while Graham tried to see how many pairs of Robby's underwear that he could put on and Campbell was right behind him. (Though Graham should have been putting on socks-that was part of his school work today, putting on and taking off 5 pairs of socks. He had to do this because he always tells us that he can't put on his socks). The kids did finally pull themselves together and manage to actually help with the laundry.
- Next up was naps for the little girls while Reagan, Anderson and Graham worked on making paper airplane after paper airplane. They went outside to see how far they would fly and Graham came back in saying "there's no hurricane, this plane won't work in this weather." Soon though it was time to start running around getting ready to go see Beebee and Papaw.
- I had clearly started all of the rules and they remembered most of them today but man, they just get wild when we see Beebee and Papaw (or maybe my kids are always wild and I just don't notice). They did manage to get a piece of candy and a bit of cash before leaving which made everyone happy. Well, not Keaton, she wanted no part of Beebee, Papaw or anyone else in that room this afternoon. She just wanted me to hold her-it was pretty pitiful.
- Then we headed to church to register for Awanas. We knew that the blow ups had been cancelled because of the winds and the kids were fine with that (heard about at least one car load of kids leaving in tears) but I had also heard that there would be snacks. Well, we didn't see those either and this cause a bit of whining from my crew. Though when we drove off I did see a tiny table passing out melted push ups so I stopped and asked for 4 (and of course I had to try to explain that I really did have 4 kids in the car).
- We picked up pizza on the way home, ate and then Graham and Reagan had presents to open from the Mississippi Dennies. We played most of the evening with Graham's new lincoln logs and Reagan couldn't have been prouder of her watch. Campbell's first words were "I sometime want a watch too." We let them stay up a bit later than usual and Campbell was the only one talking at bedtime tonight-shouting "in 5 minutes, 5 minutes."
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- Graham was pretty sure this morning that he did not want to go to school and would be content to just go straight to Jodee's house to swim. We assured him that he indeed did want to go to school. Every school morning I have been wondering aloud to Graham if today would be the day that they tried chocolate and strawberry milk-hope this would encourage him to go. But today was even better for the boy because they sorted and then ate M&Ms.
- Back at home, Anderson diligently did his school work while Campbell assisted. Ha, at one time I walked in the room and she was hitting him on the head with a piece of paper. He was pretty distracted today but with Keaton, Campbell and me all in the room I would have been distracted too. Eventually Keaton took her morning nap, I bribed Anderson with a snack, Campbell became interested in coloring and I worked on hanging up some of our flags left over from the Olympics.
- At 11, I made Anderson take off his football jersey and we loaded up and picked up Graham. He is a mess all the time at home but I sure do miss that boy when he is at school. We then drove across the river to pick up Reagan and swim for a few minutes. Jodee made us lunch and then after we talked school for a bit before going down to swim. We were lucky that their yard people showed up and our swimming was cut a bit shorter than the kids would have liked.
- We made it home-Keaton was moved to her bed, Reagan did her math and phonics and the boys and Campbell assisted me in unloading the car. Somehow we had managed to have quite a bit in the car-Reagan's backpack and lunch box from yesterday, her bag of clothes from spending the night, Graham's stuff from school, wet towels, floatees and suits from swimming, the diaper bag and ice chest from today and empty juiceboxes from the ride home. Reagan had finished her work by the time we had unloaded and put everything up. The boys worked hard and were begging to watch a movie by the time we finished.
- Before long we had supper and then took a quick family picture before heading out on our walk. Reagan fell off her bike pretty much as soon as she left the driveway-this led to much screaming and wailing along with one tiny cut. She was a trooper though and got back on her bike (because we made her) and continued on the ride.
- After the ride, Robby passed out popsicles and I hopped in the car to go grocery shopping (I spent more money and more time in the grocery store tonight than I ever have). The kids enjoyed their popsicles and then came in for baths and bed.
(click here for today's pictures)
- Reagan was the last one up this morning and took forever to get her clothes on. On school mornings or even church mornings, Robby starts the tv and the kids come barreling down the stairs. Reagan was no where to be found this morning and complained that they didn't wait on her while she was busy packing (putting her toothbrush in her bag). Needless to say, she didn't get to finish her breakfast and I told her she could take it with her-and we forgot it. Don't worry though, we did grab her a bit more cereal when we dropped the girls off.
- At church, Graham went to his class on one side of the building and then we drove to the other side of the building to wait until it was time to drop of Reagan and Anderson. We pass our time by reading a few different books. Anderson went in his class and then Reagan did too.
- When I picked Graham up from school, I always ask "what did you do at school today" and he always replies "I forgot." Then I continue with my questions and today I asked "did you go to music?" and followed it up with "what songs did you sing." Graham was quick to shoot back and say "they were all Jesus songs."
- Keaton and Campbell had a big time at Nonna's house this morning. Campbell remembered that Nonna had painted Reagan's fingernails so she asked me at home this morning if Nonna could paint hers too-so of course they did that while Keaton was sleeping. Keaton worked hard on taking a few steps today and might just be the earliest Dennie walker.
- Graham was pretty needy this afternoon and followed me from room to room so I was thrilled when Robby made it home with Anderson. After that Graham had his buddy home and they played for a few minutes before time to load up again.
- Reagan went home with Kennedy to spend the night. When Anderson arrived I unloaded his backpack and found a badge from last week. Though at soccer I found out that his class didn't earn their badges (stickers) today. Hmm, not real crazy about that. The class is too small to be having discipline problems and if it is my boy I want to know about it.
- Tonight was the boys first football practice-4 coaches (including Robby) and 10 players-pretty good ratio. My boys know nothing about football but enjoyed holding the ball and grabbing flags. We still have lots of practicing to do at home! Now my favorite part of the night was when the boys were running to me for their water bottles and ended up tackling each other-Graham ended up with a face full of grass!
- After practice, we ran by Walmart for a bite to eat at Subway and to pick up a few things. We bribed the kids with cookies and at home they quickly showered. The boys had no plans of putting on their pajamas and quickly donned their new jerseys. Then it was bedtime for all!
(click here for today's pictures)
- So this morning was church morning and thankfully, I found some chocolate donuts that had gotten hidden in the pantry. Clothes were on and we were at church at the perfect time (if you remember last week, we walked into our Sunday school class 45 minutes before Sunday school should start and one mom drops her kid off just as soon as we walked in the door-thus, we did not get there that early today since I am not a babysitter)
- As we were pulling into the parking lot at church, Reagan said "I love my Sunday school class now. It is like a dance party. The lights are flickering all around." Wow, my first grade Sunday school class was nothing like a dance party-I am a bit jealous.
- During worship today we had the Lord's Supper so the kids didn't get to partake and this was all very fresh in Graham's mind. When Robby reviewed the day with the kids, he mentioned that there would be food and drink after church tonight. Graham remembered that the last time he was at church he didn't get to have any food and drink (Lord's Supper) and quickly asked Robby "is it for the kids too?"
- And as we were coming out of church this morning, Reagan asked me why people were raising their hands during worship. I explained that it was just another way to worship like some people clap, sing or stand up. She said "Oh, I just thought that all had questions." So tonight I couldn't look at anyone raising their hands during church or I would start giggling wondering what Reagan thought all of those people were trying to ask.
- We had lunch at Grannymom's house and Lilly and Cash were there as well. Reagan was so excited to give Lilly a necklace that her and Nonna had bought while shopping. And Anderson was beyond excited that Cash had brought his remote control helicopter for them to try out. Anderson now has one more item on his Christmas list.
- The afternoon was fairly quick-the little girls fell asleep, Graham eventually did while watching a movie, Reagan snoozed with me for a bit and Robby also took a nap upstairs. Anderson was the only one who didn't sleep-in a few weeks we will have choir so there will be no more naps for me and the big 3.
- At church tonight, Campbell walked right into her classroom without fussing. (Hear the angels singing?) She must really love her Sunday morning teachers now and I really love that she doesn't fuss. After church there was another party and Keaton was quite the show-off. She would put a cup in her mouth and just giggle.
- When we all made it home, we had our ice cream truck and the kids did branch out a little more than last week when they all picked the same thing out of 6 different choices. This week the girls picked one thing and the boys picked another.
(click here for today's pictures
- Campbell was the first one to wake up this morning around 7 and her and I laid on the couch for a few minutes before the boys finally realized it was time to wake up. We then had breakfast and the kids all started playing in the toy room. I went to their bedroom and started working on Sunday clothes and Anderson peeked his head in and asked when Reagan was going to get up. He had forgotten that she had spent the night at Nonna and Pops' house. Poor guy missed his sister but Graham and him had the entire day to play together and that is good for them.
- We had a pretty lazy morning and didn't really do too much. Grannymom and Grandpa came over for Grandpa to work on a lawnmower belt with Robby. Grannymom played multiple rounds of hide and seek with the kids. Graham played some but also took time to help me make some brownies. And this evening when Reagan stepped foot in the car, Campbell made sure that she shouted at Reagan "we had brownies just like you." This led to them all having to compare everything that they did, ate, saw, heard and played during the hours that they were all apart.
- Back to the morning though, after the lawnmower belt was on we had lunch and then a bit more playing. When Grannymom and Grandpa left, we took everyone on a walk/bike ride. We are getting into the habit of wearing helmets-I know we should but those boys just sweat so much. I know though that a hot head is better than a head that is cracked open. They are getting much better on their bikes and we even rode down the street to see the horse today (I love country living).
- Then we came inside for showers and naps for the little girls. Graham and Anderson watched a movie and then Graham laid down with me and Robby and Anderson watched another movie. When Campbell woke up, we all started getting ready for tonight.
- After leaving the house, we picked up Reagan at Nonna's house and then I ran into Walmart to pick up a few things while Robby bought me gas. Then we arrived at the McGuires. The kids immediately played outside and really played outside most of the evening. We had a delicious supper and stayed late (well, late for people that had to come home and get 5 kids bathed and in bed for Sunday church in the morning but not really that late for young people-which are no longer!)
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- The kids all slept well last night but Robby and I were both up wide awake at 3:30. We should have just gotten up and done some housework or exercised but I wasn't that wide awake. We did eventually get back to sleep and all too soon Campbell was telling the whole house that she was ready to wake up.
- Before I could get out of the bed, five children were surrounding me and four of them were jockeying to get as close to Keaton as they possible could. So I just took my Keaton and got out of bed. She sat by my shower and then we all had breakfast.
- A little after 8:30 we started school and we were really moving along today (I did forget to do two of Reagan's Friday work-ipad and logic-not earth shattering though). By 11 we were reading history and science. Poor Anderson though, he was the one that was distracted today so he was the last one to finish. This doesn't bother Reagan too much but it really just distracts him more. I had to send Graham and Reagan on a mission to count the number of stairs and windows in the house so I could help Anderson finish. (Oh, 36 steps in this house as compared to 16 at Gamble and 21 windows here and only 9 at our old house-big difference).
- The kids had time to play before lunch and after lunch it was time for Nonna to come and pick Reagan up. Reagan and Nonna had a big day planned-they were going shopping for some of her birthday presents and ended the day with Chuck E Cheese and home made brownies. I think she had a blast tonight.
- After Reagan left, we started our usual afternoon routine. Eventually I remembered a video that I had wanted to show the kids about a bed of nails. It was a scientist explaining how a bed of nails works. The boys and Campbell watched it and after it was over, Anderson started talking like the scientist and they spent the rest of the afternoon doing "experiments" and "demonstrating" things. I eventually pulled out the vinegar and baking soda and let them play with that for awhile.
- When Robby arrived home, we headed to Chick Fil A. The kids played, ate and devoured a milkshake. Keaton also ate so much ice cream that she was stuffed and couldn't finished her bowl-that's my girl. She is quite the stander-upper now and hopefully will be taking some steps soon.
- Back at home, the kids watched an episode of Cake Boss and begged us to go to Hoboken to see the real Cake Boss. We reminded them that we had been there so I guess tomorrow we will have to pull out the pictures to remind them of that trip.
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- Thankfully, everyone slept all night in their bed. Campbell did stir as we were going to bed but Robby was able to calm her down and get her back to sleep. She has felt much better today-a bit of a runny nose but she didn't act sickly today nor did she show her body as she did yesterday.
- We left pretty early this morning so I could take everyone to Grannymom's house and then make it to drop Graham off at school on time. Graham had a few minutes at Grannymoms and then was happy to race me to the car to go to school. He really enjoys school and kind of likes getting to do something that everyone else doesn't get to do. We made it to school 4 minutes early-plenty of time to get a drink from the water fountain-big time stuff for G.
- Keaton spent the morning practicing walking, Campbell worked on her puzzle that I had sent as her school work, Anderson played baseball with Grannymom and Reagan spent a lot of time playing doll house.
- Graham was delighted that Nonna picked him up from school today. The original plan was for me to pick him up and then it changed to Robby picking him up and before 9, Nonna was the one who was going to pick him up. He ended up spending the entire afternoon with Nonna and then Pops. Graham was even able to go and see Beebee and Papaw. Oh, his picture that he brought home from school was many little squares glued on a piece of paper. I had seen everyone elses in his class and his was the best-his page was completely covered with paper. I love seeing that he is doing exactly what he is supposed to do since I worry sometimes about him since he is the youngest in his class.
- Once I brought the others back home, Campbell had a nap, Reagan and Anderson breezed through school and Keaton took a 30 minute nap and then was ready to get up. I tried to convince her to continue her nap but she did not want to. She played in Robby's office with him while he worked until Reagan and Anderson coaxed her back to the school room.
- After Robby made a dust storm in the yard while mowing, we all loaded up to eat pizza at Nonna and Pops' house. Graham was happy to see us but wanted to make sure the kids didn't knock down his building that he had worked so hard on. We all had pizza and then the kids had their showers before we loaded up and headed home.
- At home, Robby and worked on picking up a few things outside while the kids watched a movie before bedtime. Everyone must have been tired because they are all sound asleep!
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- Around midnight Campbell started coughing (she had been a bit yesterday) along with a bit of fever so we just brought her to bed with us. That child tossed, turned, moaned, groaned, coughed, hacked, whimpered and made noises all night long. So much so that Robby quickly headed to the couch and I woke up multiple times during the night and some how even ended up with a crick in my neck.
- Campbell must make that much racket every night because everyone else even slept in a bit and weren't even awake when Robby left for work. I was a bit worried about her this morning-after not eating any breakfast she laid in the living room for almost 30 minutes. The boys knew she didn't feel good-got her a pillow, covered her up, brought down her blanket and doggie. And just about as soon as I thought I would call about a doctors appointment, she got up, took off her clothes and shouted at the boys "want to see my body?" Yes, this is what I deal with every single day. A lady at church tonight volunteered to take some work home with her and said "I'm just a stay at home mom." Just a stay at home mom? She doesn't have a Campbell.
- Let's see, we did breakfast and then school. I even convinced Campbell to rest for a bit when Keaton took her morning nap. The kids did fine at school and everyone really seems to enjoy geography and science. And I am really liking them too-at first I had worried about science being too much but Comm central has broken it down into manageable pieces. We even watched a few videos about whales today. Now to figure out how history can be more fun because right now it is over all of our heads.
- We then had lunch and lots of playing-the kids played with the tents, then made a tent, watched a movie, read some of our magic tree house book (we are on book 7-only 38 more to go-oh my goodness! My goal was to finish them this year-will we make it?) Before too long, it was time for supper and time for me to go to church for a Cubbie meeting.
- Robby finished up supper with the kids and then they went outside to play. A long bike ride-until Graham saw a dog and leaped/fell off of his bike. Robby thought he had initially broken his leg but he was just fine without any cuts or scratches.
- They had showers and then I made it home to help tuck everyone into bed. As I was tucking Anderson in he leaned in to tell me that he had 3 popsicles tonight. He said that Daddy let him have another one since everyone else had gone inside. They all did have popsicles but only 2 each-another Dennie boy story.
- Campbell started off having a rocky night and began her newish trick of screaming "I'm scared." She doesn't know what being scared is all about so that is pretty frustrating to us. She calmed down eventually and is hopefully now asleep.
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- Today was Graham's second day of school-I guess that I hadn't realized that he would have to go to school more than one day a week like Reagan and Anderson. I mean, I did know that he was going Monday, Tuesday and Thursday but yikes, that is alot of days to go to school. He though was ready to go this morning and was disappointed when I told him he wasn't going in the morning.
- Robby took Graham to school this morning after everyone had breakfast. We made everyone get up and get ready with Graham this morning. As soon as he left, Reagan and Anderson started school. We have about 3 hours until it was time to load up and go get G.
- Campbell is so funny during school-she has to have her school work as soon as everyone else. I always have it ready for her in a box but she just picks and chooses what she wants to do and usually finishes before I can open the blinds in the school room. Keaton, the pencil stealer, keeps herself busy during the school day grabbing anything that she can and trying to crawl to the other side of the room with it in her hands.
- We were almost finished with school (just a bit of science left) when we rushed to the car to pick up Graham. We did leave a bit early so I could read history to everyone while in the car (yes, while they were all buckled in). But that plan didn't work too well since Reagan said as soon as we left the house that she had to go to the bathroom. Seriously? So once at church, I rushed her in to potty and then we ran back to the car without Graham. The others were locked in the car with the air on and yes, I had the keys with me. Back outside, we entered the pick up line and started on our history reading. We had almost finished when Graham came to the car so we just pulled into a parking spot and finished reading-I love a captive audience.
- Back at home, we had lunch and then everyone did a little bit of housework. The boys helped dust, clean sinks and empty drawers for me to clean and Reagan cleaned off a few shelves in her closet. Campbell managed to get out of work (as usual) and Keaton spent her time practicing her new trick-standing up without holding on to anything.
- A quiet afternoon around here-playing, a movie, books, naps and then outside. Robby brought everyone icees home that we enjoyed before supper and then back outside. We worked on folding up all of the water toys from Friday. Then it was bike riding time-Graham had to walk since he rode away from us yesterday. He handled that fairly well.
- It was a rather quick walk because it was already late and popsicles and showers were calling the kids names. After that it was bedtime for all.
(click here for today's pictures)
- First day of school for Graham. He was up and ready pretty quick. We dropped off Keaton and Campbell first at Nonna's house and then dropped him off. When we pulled up to the church, he said "I'm not going on." I silently started to panic knowing that things could get ugly but I ignored him and kept talking and everything went off without a hitch. He walked into his room, found his name and then washed his hands.
- Then I drove around to the other side of the church and we waited to drop of Reagan and Anderson. We had about 20 minutes to just sit in the car so I brought a few books to read to them. Anderson was the first to go in his class and he found his name and sat down (without telling me bye). And Reagan took her lunch box from me in the hallway and walked right in her class.
- I worked for a bit and then ran home to do a bit of speed cleaning. Next up was a stop at the library where I checked out too many books and then rushed to pick up Graham. He was pleased with his orange smiley face smelly sticker that he earned today in his class. He also told me that they had cupcakes with lots of icing for snack but he was the only one who could eat them because he wasn't allergic (none of that was true!)
- We then picked up Keaton and Campbell. They had a much calmer day with just the two little girls. They played kitchen, colored, read books and stayed busy all morning long. We did eat lunch before going home.
- At home, I worked on coupons for a bit downstairs and then put Keaton and Campbell in bed. Graham does not like to be upstairs by himself. He begged me to bring my stuff upstairs so I obliged and did my work by him-first my coupons, then laminating, then checked my emails.
- Soon it was time for Robby to arrive with Reagan and Anderson. Graham was so excited for Reagan to come home because he had brought her a bag of rubber bands home from Nonna's house to help her start her rubber band collection (she wants to have a rubber band ball like her Daddy did when he was growing up).
- Anderson said that school today was "awesome" and they both were ready to get upstairs to play with their toys when they walked into the door. Campbell was so excited to wake up and see that Reagan and Anderson were home. They all played and fussed until we finally heated up leftovers for supper.
- After supper we went outside to put up the waterslide-still too wet to fold up but we moved it so maybe it will dry a bit before we blow it up to dry it off (lots of work for those kids to have fun!) Then we went on our bike ride. All did good tonight and we even went down the big hill (all wearing helmets of course). Though on their way down, the huge log truck from the other street passed us but everyone stopped on the side without a problem. On the way home though, Graham just took off and drove straight home-I tried to call his name and then Robby did too but he just kept going. Anyway, next time we ride bikes, he can't ride on his. Have to stay close enough that you can hear us is the rule.
- Back inside it was shower time for all and then a quick movie before bed. Campbell helped me empty the dishwasher and Keaton played with Robby. Then we reviewed what all is going to happen tomorrow and sent everyone to bed. They are quiet right now-but I don't have the monitor on so who knows what is really happening up there!
(click here for today's pictures)
- For my blog skimmers I will start with this story. Tonight Robby had already taken the kids into to the sanctuary and I went to drop off Keaton. Then I headed to the sanctuary. The preacher was standing at the door and he hugged the young lady in front of me, asked how her afternoon was and then gave her a kiss. I knew this wasn't his wife since the hair color was different. I did know though that I was next in line for this holy hug type of greeting and was getting a bit panicked. I tried to back quickly up and enter through another door but it was now my turn to walk through the door. I braced myself for a the preachers greeting but he just said "hi" and let me pass without a hug and kiss. Now I was feeling a bit slighted but soon realized the girl in front of me was the preacher's daughter.
- I know I am jumping around but two things from our visit to the zoo yesterday: First, Campbell loved seeing the animals but if they were not moving to her requirements, she would shout "go" to them. Never really worked. And second, Robby convinced the kids that he knew all of the penguins names (Bob, Mary, Chester...). They were so impressed that he could tell them apart-love messing with their minds!
- Sunday morning here and new Sunday school classes so we were up and ready very early. We were actually at church before 9 and as soon as we walked into our class someone dropped their kids off-just 40 minutes early. Moral of the story-last time we will be that early!
- The kids all loved their new teachers. Campbell didn't fuss this morning and her teachers commented "you can tell she has brothers" and "she is more outgoing than Reagan"-I am not sure yet if those are good things. Anderson, Reagan and Graham also enjoyed cookies from Mr. Mike this morning.
- Both boys fell asleep in church this morning. I guess Sunday school wore them out-we are now going to the second service so it will take some time to get used to our new schedule. We were given a compliment about the kids behavior in church this morning which was very nice.
- We had lunch at Nonna and Pops' house and Keaton loved the lasagna but was a complete mess when she finished. From head to toe was covered in lasagna-it was that good. Then we headed home for naps for the little girls and possibly the big people while the others played and watched a movie.
- Soon enough it was time to get ready for church. We scarfed down our sandwiches and left the house. We let Campbell go to big church again tonight and let me just quote me from what I said on the blog last week "I don't really know why we decided that-maybe because we have completely lost our minds. The child was fine but she won't be going back to big church any time soon!" Somebody stop me next week!!
- After church they had a reception and the kids just love receptions-brownies, punch, cupcakes-a good time for the Dennie kids. And then we came home and started our new Sunday night tradition-the Dennie Ice Cream Truck. The kids were able to pick out whatever ice cream novelty that they wanted. Much to Robby's dismay-they all picked the same thing even though we had tons of choices for them.
(click here for today's pictures)
- Last night as we went to bed, Robby went through all of our plans for the day with the kids-Clinton Library, zoo, Lilly and Cash's birthday party. Of course he told them that all of our plans hinged on the rain but at that time the weather looked fairly promising.
- But when we woke up we were greeted with crazy thunder and lightening. The kids were still so exhausted from yesterday that they slept until 8 and then we listened to them talk on the monitor. It must have been very dark in their room because they weren't sure of the time. Graham went to the clock to read the time and read it backwards "5-5-7." To this Campbell starts shouting "0-0-2" over and over. Eventually Anderson figured out the correct time. But it didn't seem like they could hear the rain or lightening.
- Everyone was quite disappointed when they saw the rain but we explained that we were still going to have a fun day despite the weather. The Clinton library plan was still on go so we got everyone ready while Robby and I were busy coming up with plan B to replace the zoo.
- As we were getting ready this morning, Graham looked at Robby and said "you are going to die in 20 minutes." Robby replied with "well, that will be a downer." That conversation was kind of odd but thankfully, Robby lasted all day long today!
- When we got off the interstate we could see the lines and cars at the Clinton library-crazy, too crazy for us. It was free day but I think the crowds were there for the free backpacks and watermelons. Free day can wait until another day for the Dennies so we quickly worked on plan c. Thankfully, we have a pass to the Museum of Discovery and headed there.
- The kids were so excited to show Robby around and especially excited to show him the bed of nails. We all tried it out today (even Reagan who was too skittish to do it last time). We did everything in that museum and I had to continually tell the kids and Robby (who was having as much fun as the kids were) to move along.
- The skies were clearish when we left, so we headed to the zoo for member appreciation day. The kids were so happy that it wasn't raining because today was free carousel and train ride day for members. The lady scared the boys when we entered because she told us that right then the train wasn't running due to water on the tracks. You should have heard the screams when we saw the train running-they were ecstatic.
- We rode the carousel first, then saw the snake moving (never see that) and saw an elephant walking around too. Then we stopped for our free hot dog lunch in the cafe which filled everyone up-they were starving I guess from the busy morning. Next up was seeing the giraffes walking around, seeing a rhino closer than usual, viewing the cheetahs playing (our first time to see them), seeing the lions and penguins before walking to the front. All of the animals were much more active today than usual-must have been enjoying the cooler temperatures.
- Back at the front, we all got our free cups of nectar to feed the lorikeets. Reagan and Anderson were feeding their birds with Graham and Campbell standing nearby. When suddenly the 4 birds near us took off and flew right passed our heads. I will admit that I did let out a little scream but the kids were more startled than me. Anderson spilled his nectar all over his shirt, Reagan spilled hers on her shoes and afterwards, Graham handed me his cup and said he was ready to wash his hands. We won't be feeding those birds anytime soon! One more carousel ride before getting back in the car to head home.
- At home, Keaton, Campbell, Robby and I all had a nap while the others watched a movie. My phone woke me up and we then rushed around getting ready for Lilly and Cash's party. The kids were so excited and had lots of fun swimming. Robby and I didn't swim because it was cold, cold, cold outside but all of the kids didn't seem to mind-though Reagan's lips were blue most of the night.
- We had hot dogs and lots of cupcakes. After swimming, the kids migrated over to the playground for a bit of playing before we headed home. At home, we gave everyone showers and then tucked them all in. Another big day for these Dennie kids!
(click here for today's pictures)
- By shortly after 10, everyone was asleep last night and at 12 when I went to check on everyone, they were all laying just as we had last left them-too tired to even move. Anderson said that him and Cash stayed up real late and Reagan said Campbell asked questions all night. Funny how their definitions of "real late" and "all night" are a bit different than mine!
- A bit before 7, all 3 boys ran into our bedroom and asked if they could play. They had left the toy room to come downstairs to ask if they could play. Of course I said yes and back up they went to the toy room. Soon the girls were up as well and I was already dreading Campbell calling for us to get her out of bed (I don't mind getting her out of bed but honestly, it is so far away in the mornings). She never called and I was starting to wonder when she showed up downstairs. Lilly had helped her out of bed-Lilly now has an invitation to sleep over any night she would like!
- Before too long, everyone was having doughnuts for breakfast along with some poptarts. They played for awhile but were very anxious to get outside to play on the water slide. I stalled for quite a long time. First we made our solar ovens out of pizza boxes and then we made a cake.
- There is a favorite book of mine, Seven Silly Eaters, about 7 kids that each like only one food. There poor mom was exhausted making 7 different things and it was almost her birthday. The kids awoke early to make the mom their favorite foods but ended up making a mess and putting it all in one big pot in the warm oven. The mom woke to a perfect birthday cake made with all of their favorite foods and from them on that is the only thing that the family ate. All that to say, we made the cake from the book-it wasn't too bad and the kids enjoyed eating it during one of our swimming breaks later in the day.
- Around 11, we sat out our solar ovens and had a quick lunch outside. Then I let them on the water slides and they had a blast. Lots of tag, lots of races and lots of splashing. They would stop every so often to check on our ovens-we had s'mores baking inside of them. The chocolate started to melt pretty quickly and was almost too melted when we ate them. But the marshmallows were barely warm and never really cooked. Two things we did wrong-I forgot the step of putting newspaper around the inside edge of the box and the second thing was I probably didn't tape everything up tight enough so that air couldn't get out of the box.
- I was trying to stop for a food break every hour-first the cake, then the smores and finally the watermelon. We had another watermelon (thanks to the neighbor) and the kids pretty much devoured it. There really wasn't even enough to cut and save mainly due to my lack of cutting skills.
- Eventually the water slides start losing more air (I think they get tired) and started deflating (or maybe it had something to do with the 6 kids on them). Either way, the kids decided they were ready to come in so in everyone went to change. By the time I had the towels in the wash, the whole crew was going out again to play in the dirt.
- This kept them busy for at least another 2 hours. I just don't understand what they can do in a dirt pile for so long (though I sure remember enjoying my sand pile growing up). Graham was so tired by now that he sat in my lap for a few minutes while we were outside and fell sound asleep. He slept until after 5 and we had to work hard to wake him up.
- I handed out popsicles and after they ate them I suggested that they go inside and watch a movie. They were all tired and needed to rest for a few minutes. The boys played upstairs and then joined the girls watching tv. Dana showed up and when we went to get Lilly and Cash, everyone was all cuddled up watching Cake Boss.
- The kids were tired and we knew that the evening would stretch out if we stayed in the house, so soon we were all outside picking up sticks. Well, I should probably say that the kids were outside picking up a stick each and Robby and I were picking up sticks. We worked outside until Nonna and Pops dropped by.
- The joined us on our nightly walk/bike ride. The past few days, Anderson has been having a bit of trouble riding and Robby saw why tonight-his rear tire was flat. He fixed that before we had popsicles and then it was shower/bath time for the kids.
- It was nearly 7 when we had supper-no wonder the kids were hungry. Sandwiches, apples, doughnuts and then bed for everyone. Graham called Robby upstairs to cover him up and he was the only one still awake. The others were sound asleep-long and wonderful day for my little Dennies!
(click here for today's pictures)
- Work morning for me so it was Grannymom morning for the kids. It didn't take too long for the kids to get ready. When they walked down the steps they all decided that they wanted to eat breakfast at Grannymom's house (their ploy to get their earlier) but before I knew it, everyone was asking for breakfast at home. Since I had no food in the house, I had to pull out the Sunday doughnuts.
- The kids all had a blast with Grannymom and Grandpa. Everyone did a bit of school work, Keaton worked on walking while just holding one hand and everyone loved playing at Lilly and Cash's new park.
- Robby and I ran to the grocery store and filled are cart with many random things-8 jars of peanut butter, 5 boxes of popsicles-things like that is why we should probably not go grocery shopping together.
- We then picked up the kids and headed home. After they played for a while, the little girls had a nap and the rest of us did school. The principal (Robby) did show up a few times to pass out candy. The school day went smoothly-probably because of the candy!
- Soon it was time to gobble down supper and then head out the door for football try outs. Robby was helping so I had the kids moving to station to station alone. They were perfect-the boys would go right to the line and stand ready until the person told them to go. They were so focused. And much to my delight, when the ball was thrown both boys caught it (once for Graham and twice for Anderson)-I couldn't have asked for more. Football will be a bit harder than soccer-don't expect to be on the winning team this year.
- On our way home, I text Dana and soon Lilly and Cash were here for our cousin day. The kids were beyond thrilled and I was too-until Dana said it is going to rain tomorrow-there goes my plans of water sliding, outdoor scavenger hunts and a solar oven. Ha!! Oh well, I have all evening to work on my rain plans (also known as my plans to keep 7 kids busy all day long indoors)
- Robby suggested that we all load up and go and get icees and this idea was met with many squeals of delight. So both cars were filled and we drove to the gas station, all unloaded and bought 4 icees. In the parking lot, we split them 6 ways and somehow Keaton even got herself an empty cup to play with.
- Back at the house, we had cupcakes leftover from Grannymom and then it was lots of playtime before bed. It was nearly 10 when we had everyone lay down and surprisingly we only went up there twice before no more sounds were heard by the kiddos.
(click here for today's pictures)
- Keaton was the first one up this morning which is quite odd-she did have a pretty messy diaper which actually called for Robby to get up and get in the shower so Keaton could get a quick wash with him. Later I saw that the boys were already up and playing in the toy room-no telling how long they had been up. I guess they could have been up since the middle of the night.
- It didn't take too long to start our morning and after everyone emptying their assigned trash cans this morning (tomorrow is trash day) we moved on to school. By 11, Reagan only had a few things left and we all stared on some group work. We did all make a moon which revolved around the earth which revolved around the sun little craft. Tonight they were all so proud to show what they had made to Robby and then impressed him with naming all of the planets in order.
- Next up was lunch and reading a few stories. The kids always tickle me-Reagan and Anderson want me to keep reading whatever I am reading. This morning it was one of our Bible story books (which is a bit deep for them) and at lunch it was Little House in the Big Woods (which I think is a bit boring-sorry). Finally, we did keep reading a Magic Tree House (just my speed-but not Grahams. They are a bit too intense for him and scare him a bit).
- Everyone worked together to quickly straighten the house and then they played in the toy room while the little girls slept. Soon Keaton was up and we finished out our Olympic medal chart (just a few days late) and then went upstairs to read a few stories.
- It was almost 5, when we made it outside after picking up the toy room. They all went straight to the dirt pile and started working-first they were again playing Cake Boss and then bulldozers were brought outside and they were moving "apples." Robby showed up with supper (it has been a bit since we have been to the store so it is slim pickings here).
- We ate on the picnic table and then headed out for a bike ride. Anderson gets tired pretty quick and will hop off and push his bike (like that is any easier). Most of our walk is on a slight incline but Reagan really enjoys riding and even did another loop while the boys rode back with me. On our way, a neighbor rode past us with his dog following him cause the boys to nearly wet themselves and Campbell was beside herself as well.
- Thankfully, everyone did make it home in one piece and we had our nightly popsicles before showers. The kids played pretty perfectly even though it was bedtime so we let them stay up a bit longer than usual....they played better until Campbell knocked down Reagan and Anderson's lincoln log houses which caused many, many, very unnecessary tears.
(click here for today's pictures)
- Anderson was in our bed around 6:30 this morning asking about breakfast. I told him that it would be sometime after I got out of bed so he went ahead and moved to the toy room.
- After all of this, I was out of bed a bit earlier than usual and we were eating breakfast just a few minutes after Robby left. We did some of our school memory work and then all headed to the schoolroom a bit earlier than usual.
- We breezed through much of school leaving only Anderson's reading book, Reagan's math, flashcards, english and writing and everyone's science and history. Wow, doesn't seem like we did much of anything! No worries, we did some science and history this afternoon and Anderson's reading book and Reagan's math were done after showers tonight. We can't get behind this week because Friday is our day off for Lilly and Cash to come and play!
- Just as soon as we wrapped up what we were working on, the doorbell rang-Lilly, Cash and Grannymom were all here. And that meant it was time for Graham and me to leave to meet his teacher for preK.
- We arrived before 11 since I thought my appointment was at 11 but I guess I had written down the wrong time and we waited until my assigned time at 11:30. Graham and I played legos while we waited. He was funny-very clingy and not much to say at all today-completely unlike Graham. He even sat in my lap while I was talking to Ms. Stacy. He brought a bulldozer and little man to show her and was so pleased that she gave him a popcorn holder along with some popcorn-which we used this afternoon.
- Back at home, I fixed lunch for Lilly, Cash and my crew and then they played for a few more minutes. Soon Kennedy arrived and everyone played for a bit before Grannymom and her crew left. By this time it was nap time for the little girls and I passed out a snack for the others to eat while listening to science and history.
- They all played upstairs until Campbell and I checked the mail. It was so pleasant outside that I mentioned that the kids should go outside to see if they could find the deer tracks from this morning. They flew down the stairs when they heard that idea. This morning a momma and 2 baby deer were walking across the yard-Robby and I were downstairs and the kids were in the toy room so everyone was able to see them (Campbell didn't see the babies though-she wasn't happy about that at all).
- We found no deer tracks but the kids used the dirt pile to play "Cake Boss"-lots of mixing, baking and icing going on with the dirt. The boys played a bit of baseball and I worked on my computer for a bit. Keaton sat in the wagon and enjoyed rides from the boys and Campbell.
- Once Kennedy left and Robby came home, we had supper and then took a bike ride/walk around the block before eating our popsicles. While Reagan and Anderson finished some school work after showers, the others "worked" on the toy room. After it was cleaned, everyone went to bed-they must have been so tired because they didn't make any noise tonight-we need to play outside more often!
(click here for today's pictures)
- School morning and everyone woke up in a fairly good mood. I got everyone dressed and Robby took their breakfast orders. It didn't take too long for us all to be loaded up in the car and on our way to Nonna's house and school.
- I dropped off Graham, Campbell and Keaton at Nonna's house. Campbell was ready to help Nonna make play-doh today. Keaton was ready for breakfast and Graham was ready to play. Every single time we walk into Nonna's house Graham goes and finds an old dump truck and jenga pieces and that is what he plays with most of the time that he is there.
- Next I dropped off Reagan and Anderson at school. We were actually there a bit early and I read to them in the car while we waited for the time to enter school. Reagan found a seat by Kennedy when we arrived and Anderson's name tag was on a table and he found his seat.
- The kids all had a big time making and playing with playdoh through out the day with Nonna. And when I showed up, we had lunch and then I took the girls home. Graham had convinced Nonna that he needed to stay with her during the afternoon like he did last week.
- Keaton and Campbell helped me with the laundry for a bit and then I put them down for a nap. Robby was able to pick up Reagan and Anderson from school and they were ready to get upstairs and play when they made it home.
- Anderson was very proud of his sticker that he earned in class today. He said that some others didn't get one because they talked too much. Reagan had a very good day too and came home with a folder full of stuff. She also did her first oral report today and seemed like she enjoyed doing it. (I'll find out more info on that later from Ms. Jodee).
- Soon it was time to leave to meet Nonna, Pops, Graham and Jason for Nonna's birthday supper at David's Burgers. Graham was so excited that he was able to ride in Pops' truck. He couldn't have been more happier about this.
- We all had burgers and then ice cream and finally, Nonna opened up her birthday presents. After saying our goodbyes, we stopped at the dollar store and kroger on the way home for me to pick up a few things. And then home-the car ride was a bit eventful....
- Reagan repeatedly sang a song "poopy, poop, Anderson" and on it went. So when we arrived home, she had an extra treat of getting her mouth washed out with soap. She was none too thrilled about that but will definitely remember her lesson.
- She and Anderson were sent to bed early for their behavior in the car and Graham and Campbell were able to stay up for a bit. Graham really enjoyed his extra time and spent most of it trying to decide what he was going to take to show Ms. Stacy tomorrow.
(click here for today's pictures)
- Sunday morning and no one asked for doughnuts for breakfast-kind of an odd day to start the day. They did have waffles, toast, pancakes and the traditional favorite of peanut butter and jelly sandwich. We were ready and out the door in time to sit in the church parking lot for a few minutes before going into the church house.
- We dropped the first round of kids off at their classes and Campbell walked in without a fuss this morning. Woo hoo! But of course next week everyone will have all new classes and all new teachers. All 5 kids had a great group of teachers this year and I kind of hate to get all new teachers....though I do know Graham's teachers will be awesome (Robby and I) and Reagan's teachers will also be wonderful since they were also my first grade teachers at church.
- After church, we went to Grannymom's house for lunch. The kids were ecstatic to see Lilly and Cash who we haven't seen in over a month. The kids gobbled their food and then were ready to play with their cousins. After a while Lilly and Cash had to leave so we played for a bit before heading home.
- At home, we had told the kids that they could swim so after putting Keaton down for a nap, the rest of us headed outside. I don't know if the pool was cold (we didn't blow up the slide-trying to let it dry out). But the kids didn't really splash and play in the pool much. But that had a wonderful time sliding down the little slide into the pool and then they all worked together pouring bucket after bucket full of water out of the pool and onto the grass. Robby and I just sat and watched them do this-sometimes I just don't understand my kids.
- We did have watermelon this afternoon and since Anderson begged for some Robby thought that he should be able to have some. Robby said that the worst could happen would Anderson would get itchy again but I countered with the worst that could happen would be his throat swell up and we have to rush to the emergency room. Thankfully, neither happened today. I did only let him have one piece and then tried to distract him with graham crackers.
- Back inside the house they had showers and then everyone played for a bit. I fixed a bit of supper and then we all loaded up again for church. We are going to start going back to church on Sunday nights and since the choir did a special little concert, we started back tonight.
- Of course Reagan and Anderson go to church with us now. And Graham also went to big church tonight because he will begin going weekly starting next Sunday. But we also decided to let Campbell come with us tonight. I don't really know why we decided that-maybe because we have completely lost our minds. The child was fine but she won't be going back to big church any time soon! She was so proud of herself when I told her that she did a good job and couldn't wait to tell Nonna and Grannymom that she went to big church.
- Towards the end of church, Anderson asked if there was going to be food after church-he was hoping there would some type of reception but alas there was not and we headed home for popsicles. Tomorrow is Comm Central day so after our snack it was bedtime for the Dennie bunch.
(click here for today's pictures)
- Graham in our bed two nights in a row so I thought it was him at 1 this morning poking me but it was Anderson. He said "good morning" as he crawled in with us. That boy is a bit bigger than his brother so at 3 Robby took his ipad and moved to the couch. I thought he was just going to the bathroom and coming back so I stayed hanging off the edge of the bed for the rest of the night.
- We all did sleep until 8 this morning so it was fairly late when we were eating breakfast and I was giving everyone the run down of the day. Anderson interrupted and said "I know, I know, we have to do homeschool first." When I told him that no, this was not a homeschool day, he replied with "really? really?" He could not believe it and when I said that tomorrow and Monday weren't homeschool days either he was just shocked.
- Robby left this morning to do a few errands (dumpster run, clean car, walmart) and I worked in the house, made at least a zillion lego animals for the kids, folded laundry and then started getting everyone ready. I let the big kids put on their bathing suits early but wouldn't let Campbell (cruel, I know). I let her put on her suit early yesterday and she wet in it and since swim diapers aren't cheap and aren't absorbent she had to wait today. Campbell was not pleased with this idea at all-she screamed and screamed and cried for her daddy (standard anytime now that I make her mad).
- Before too long, the Hunters and Grannymom and Grandpa had arrived and the kids were able to play on the water slide. They played for awhile and then all of the grownups went in to eat. Graham said that he wanted everyone to come outside and watch them and within a little bit, they had all come in to eat (and be with everyone else). Anderson disappeared upstairs and when I called him down to eat, he shouted back that he was changing clothes. Of course that was fine but when he came downstairs he said "I had to change clothes and comb my hair." What, comb his hair? We haven't combed his hair in forever. And of course, a few minutes later, Graham went upstairs to change and comb his hair too.
- A few minutes later though, they had all put their suits back on and were back in the pool. We eventually took another break for watermelon. Anderson never tries anything new and today I offered him a dollar to try a piece of the watermelon. So he jumped at the chance and even said that he liked it....but within a few minutes he had red bumps all over his chest. Coincidence or allergic reaction? I don't know but he was given a mega dose of benedryl!
- They had such a good time and when everyone left it was time to come in for their first shower of the day. They played more legos while Keaton slept and all eventually watched a few movies. I let Campbell stay up from her nap since it was around 3 but before too long, she was in my lap and we were both snoozing on the couch.
- We then loaded up to run a few errands-just 5 stops but the way that Reagan complained you would have thought that we were driving to Orlando. Of course, they only got out at 1 stop but it wasn't that bad. We ate at Burger King so they were able to get out and play on the play set. Once we made it home we did a bit of bike riding.
- The kids are all getting better on their bikes. Of course, Robby and I are constantly shouting "slow down, don't get too close, go to the side of the road." Ha! So when we tell them to peddle fast to get up a hill they just turn around and look at us and then can't propel themselves up the hill (Graham can get up the little hills we have here the best).
- After biking, they had an oatmeal cream pie and then another shower. We then put everyone to bed with a stern reminder to stay in their beds until 7 in the morning. Now taking bets about who will climb into our bed tonight.
(click here for today's pictures)
- This was the second night in a row for Graham to climb in bed with us. The other night it was at 4 and tonight it was at 2. He is pretty cuddly at night so that is fine with me-well, it isn't really fine but he is the best of the 5 to have to sleep beside.
- Robby left pretty early this morning and the kids were all playing "super hero." Soon I had breakfast on the table and we had started our day.
- School was fine today though we had a hard time getting everything in before lunch. But we were having such a good time we just kept going. Actually, Keaton was still asleep and we had something fun to do.
- Geography today consisted of laying out toilet paper squares to show each planets' distance from the sun. Of course, a roll of toilet paper and 4 kids made for a great time-especially when I told them they could tear the rest of pieces. And that they did-took them forever to pick up all of the toilet paper.
- I am in the habit of reading to them during lunch but today I cooked a bit while they were eating. And then we started picking up the house. The kids didn't mind helping since we were having company.
- I put Campbell to bed for a nap and then went to thy toy room to talk to the big kids for a few minutes. As I lay on the floor, Anderson said "something looks wrong with your eyes." I asked what it was and started rubbing them and then the boy said "they just look exhausted." Well after that self esteem build up, I thought about taking a nap but there would no naps in the house today.
- Not even a nap for Campbell. After staying up til 10 last night, she didn't take a nap at all this afternoon. She just kept saying "me no kiss my boyfriend" (Gavin) and "when Gavin coming?" This lasted for 45 minutes and I finally went upstairs to get her out of bed.
- But that will be the last time that she gets up early from a nap because as soon as her feet hit the floor, she walked right into Keaton's room where she was sleeping soundly and said "Keaton is ready to wake up too." Poor Keaton was not ready to wake up nor was Keaton's momma ready for her to wake up.
- Before too long, Greyson, Griffin and Gavin came over to play and everyone was swinging and playing in the dirt pile. We came in briefly only to have supper and then all headed back outside to play. We had set up the water slide and they kids had a blast. The big kids love sliding down all at once (probably not very safe) but they loved it. They played until they were exhausted. Then we all had watermelon and a few more cookies before coming in for more playing.
- The kids had loads of fun playing inside too and seemed to play hide and seek for the longest time while we all talked. Eventually it was time for our company to go and my crew came in for some juice and then to start doing a bit of picking up-tomorrow will be another big day.
- As Robby was telling the kids goodnight, Reagan commented on his glasses and said "you look like Grandpa wearing your glasses." Now they are upstairs debating who wears glasses-if Daddy looks more like Grandpa, Pops or Grannymom while wearing his glasses.
(click here for today's pictures)
- Morning was fairly normal around here. I dropped everyone off at Grannymom and Grandpa's house while I ran to the grocery store and to work. Then Robby took my car and ran to do a bit of work of his own.
- Grannymom said that Keaton had a bit of tummy problems this morning and Campbell had those same troubles this afternoon a bit but all is well now and everyone seems to feel fine. We will see in the morning though.
- Robby picked the kids up and they all were eating cookies because Campbell had pottied in the potty! Woo hoo. That is progress-major progress. So Campbell is now moving in with Grannymom until she can come home wearing big girl panties.
- Back at home, Keaton and Campbell had a nap and the rest of us did school. I had said yesterday that Graham was going to practice putting things into baggies since that is what he was having a hard time doing the day before. So his first task was to put coins in a little ziplock bag. The poor child kept working and working and was really having trouble today. The other day he wasn't even trying to do put stuff in but today he was really trying and I sure thought he was putting the money in. Eventually he noticed that there was a hole in his bag-wonder how long he would have worked.
- Anderson was working on his thankful journal during school. I had made two lines for him to write on and had talked about how things needed to be neat. When he finished, he said "I didn't need two lines, I just squished it all together." Great, so much for that neatness talk.
- We finished most of school and then made pudding for our after supper snack. Next up, I worked in the kitchen with Keaton in the exersaucer. Campbell is the self appointed teether freezer. Keaton's teething toys that can be frozen are kept in the freezer by Campbell. She makes sure that when the toys thaw they are put back in the freezer. Of course she also helps Keaton "play" with these teethers-putting the rings around her wrists and even putting one down her shirt tonight. Poor Keaton plays along and tolerates her big sister.
- So during all of this, I got involved with my kitchen cleaning and wasn't looking when I said something to Keaton. She didn't make a noise so I turned to check on her and Keaton and her whole exersaucer were missing. I started calling her name (knowing Campbell had something to do with this) and found Keaton in her exersaucer in my room with everyone else watching the Cake Boss (the current favorite tv show here-I will never understand my kids).
- We then went outside to work on something for a few minutes and of course the kids followed. We were out until around 8 and then I put everyone to bed. And a few minutes to 10 and Campbell is still wide awake. That girl is talking about not kissing her boyfriend, how she can't go to sleep and is making Reagan go crazy since the boys are already awake.
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| Bunny on the loose... |
(click here for today's pictures)
- Campbell is just on a 6:40 routine and no matter how much benedryl I giver her, it just doesn't change (kidding about the benedryl). I guess it is good since we all do get an early start. By 9 this morning, we had all had breakfast, done some memory work, Campbell had changed her clothes (pink shorts were dirty), emptied trash cans, all made bunny masks (I have no idea why) and had started school.
- School was fine this morning. I have decided that Campbell needs a morning nap along with Keaton. She just gets a bit fussy during school-craving attention. Graham has settled into a routine and does good until I ask him to put something up. So tomorrow the majority of his school will consist of putting things into plastic baggies which proved to be hard for him today-too hard.
- After school, we had our lunch and read quite a few books. The kids do all sit quietly while I read...well, for the most part. I did look up today and no one was there. I called them back and let them know that getting up without asking and being that rude caused them to not watch tv today. Man, two days in a row with no tv around here-you would have thought I said I was going to cut off their arms.
- We all played little pet shop for awhile this afternoon. Kind of funny seeing the boys play-everyone makes houses for their animals. Anderson's house was inside of the race track, Graham's house was around the train table and they both had construction vehicles that they were pushing their animals around in. Keaton was upstairs too and she just sat holding two doll house dolls that had real hair-I think she liked how the hair felt. After 30 minutes up there, did she start crawling around to get stuff she sees. And she loves to eat the darts from their nerf guns!
- Keaton and Campbell eventually had a nap and I read a few stories to the others. Graham's head was resting very awkwardly on my leg and when I looked down mid page he was sound asleep. Poor thing must have been tired to fall asleep in that position.
- I heated up supper when Robby came home and then we waited for Kennedy to come. When she showed up, we had supper and the kids set off upstairs to play. They have spent a while playing legos and I am not really sure what else-all that I know is that it was very noisy with lots of thuds and bangs coming from their room above me.
- So currently, Reagan, Anderson, Graham, Campbell, Kennedy and occasionally Keaton are all sitting under a comforter held up by my feet and an ottoman. They have flashlights and are all telling ghost stories. I guess the stories have gotten to be too much for Campbell-she just shouted "any monsters in here? I want to leave."
- The plans from here are cookies, saying bye to Kennedy and then bedtime for my Dennie kids!
