Adventures in Dennieland...: 04/01/2016

April 30, 2016

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We weren't too sure how Whitman would do sleeping upstairs in the boys' room last night but we were pleasantly surprised when he walked in our room a few minutes after 7 this morning. Behind him were Anderson and Graham carrying Whitman's stuffed animals, pillows and blankets. That little boy has his big brothers wrapped around his little finger.
We had found out last night that soccer was cancelled this morning due to the massive amounts of rain so we took it fairly slowly this morning. The kids, of course, were up and not so patiently waiting for breakfast. Robby made cinnamon rolls so that is always a crowd pleaser.
Once we heard that Robby's car had been fixed, we headed out to pick it up and go grocery shopping. My children absolutely abhor going to the grocery store-or any kind of shopping. And if I had to choose anywhere for Robby and I to go together, Kroger would be in the top 3. Maybe they don't like it because they believe that I will not let them get anything that is not on the list-that is not true because today we also came home with a caramel apple kit, Mexican cupcakes, and "the good lunch meat."
After the store, we both drove to the gas station which was a much needed stop for my car. I only had 12 more miles before I ran out of gas-we were just living on the edge today. Once at home, we all emptied the cars and Robby grilled hot dogs for a late lunch.
The kids, then, started watching their Redbox movies. They had 2 movies so it took them until after 5 to finish them. We had a snacky supper while watching a kid baking show and then we watched a bit of a documentary before bedtime. The kids had some time to read before lights out but there was lots of moving around in the girls' room which is right above my head!

April 29, 2016

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The sound of the rain was wonderful this morning and it was so dark outside that we could have stayed in bed for hours-except Robby was already out of bed getting ready. Seconds later Graham was in my room asking for help with his school work.
Soon everyone was working on their school work before breakfast. I plan school for a month at a time and every 2 weeks I give us a day off. Those days off are usually spent busy with our homeschool friends or doing something else and not just spent at home. But since we were going to be just at home today, everyone had 3 boxes of work to accomplish.
So everything was finished by breakfast which was leftover doughnuts. Then the kids had quite a bit of down time until we worked together and did our chores. The most exciting thing that happened today was that Whitman did poo in the potty. His Daddy had told him that he would get a prize and maybe he remembered that because each time that he pottied after that he would sit on the potty and really try to poo again. I think he was trying to earn more prizes.
Before we had lunch, the kids all migrated onto the front porch and soon were all out front in the dirt. It was nearing 12:30 and since the lunch I had cooked was getting cold (leftover potatoes, mac and cheese along with some fruit) was getting cold I had to call everyone in. They were already a bit filthy but asked to go back out after lunch and much to their delight I agreed.
After the kitchen was picked up, everyone but Reagan (who does not like touching anything messy at all) headed back outside. It was barely sprinkling but the ground was still wet, wet. Keaton and Whitman didn't last too long but Campbell, Anderson and Graham were out for at least an hour. They splashed in the water, went down the slide, threw water on each other and themselves and even laid down in puddles. They were a mess and probably needed to be hosed off before I even let them in the house. I did manage to contain their mess and only let them come inside in shift so I could get them to the shower for a good scrubbing.
Around 5, we left to pick up Robby, who dropped his car off to be worked on. Then we ate at La Madelines which was very good. The Davids were there and we convinced their kids to sit with us and even convinced Sara to go home with us. After supper, we went to Walmart to buy Whitman his present (he wanted a Bob the Builder prize) but was happy to get a car that floats. Robby even said that if he continued with the pottying then he would get another car that floats!
We also picked up some ice cream and had ourselves a bit ole ice cream bar before turning on a movie for the big kids. Whitman, who was such a big boy today, even went to bed upstairs in the boys room. We will see how well that works out. At least he will be asleep when the big boys go to bed. Though trying out a new bed probably wasn't the greatest idea for a dark and rainy Saturday morning!

April 28, 2016

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Campbell came downstairs this morning asking for me to open the school room door so she could get her phonics and math out. This caused me to have lots of questions-mainly "why?" It turns out, Reagan was upstairs in her bed working on her school work so Campbell wanted to take her school work upstairs as well.
Reagan was already working because she knew that today was her turn to go with Robby and Whitman to take Keaton to school. Today was finally picture at Keaton's school and I tell you, I picked out the cutest little outfit ever for her to wear. But you can probably imagine that she was none to happy with my choice but I didn't care at all-today was my pick and she was going to wear it!
Whitman couldn't have been happier to go with Robby his morning and he was very happy to get to ride in the red van-for some reason this is just a treat for everyone. He had his poptart in his hand and was happily munching his way. Reagan convinced Robby to take her Krispy Kreme for superhero day (buy 1 get 1 free). Whitman munched on his doughnut for a few bites and then asked for his poptart.
Now back at the house without Reagan, my consistent hard worker, it was almost silent. It was oddly silent-like I almost called Robby for him to listen to the silence. It just made me think about how quiet things are going to be next year with Keaton and Whitman gone....and that just makes me a little bit sad or a little bit happy (I am not too sure which one.)
School went very well today The kids finished in time for us to work together, do our memory work and even work on science for a few minutes before lunch. While I made lunch, Reagan and Graham worked on chores while Anderson finished his last bit of school.
With chores finished before lunch, we didn't have too much to do this afternoon. After a bit of kindle and movie time, Robby kicked the kids outside. They played outside until Keaton came home with dessert-warm brownies-for us to enjoy. We all devoured the entire pan and after Nonna and Pops left, Robby called me over to mow a bit while he went in to send an email.
I wondered where Whitman was but figured that one of his 5 brothers or sisters would keep watch. I would look for him when I was turned facing the driveway but then would turn back around mowing in the other direction. Then the next pass, I looked up and Robby was running down the drive way. I kept mowing while wondering what was happening-his run was a slow run, almost a jog and not a sprint. So I wasn't too panicked-I could see most of my kids but I was certainly curious. I called Reagan over and she said that he was just going to to Whitman. When Robby did take over the lawnmower for me he said that Whitman was almost to Lawson. (Grandmas-he wasn't really all the way to Lawson. He does only go down there when his brothers and sisters are down the road and Anderson was down there ready to tackle him if necessary.)
By 5, we were all inside eating supper. We were hot from being outside so steaming hot baked potatoes just made us hotter but it was well worth it. The kids love baked potatoes-or maybe they just love the cheese and butter that we let them smoother on top. After we ate, we cleaned the kitchen lightening fast and then headed to Maumelle.
Brett was playing a baseball game and we ventured across the bridge to watch. We left a bit later than planned and when the traffic stopped before we even made it to 630 we were concerned that we would miss the whole thing. We did see one wreck happen and then the remains of 2 more wrecks but soon we were again moving and made it to the game in plenty of time.
The kids enjoyed watching Brett's team win the game but they also enjoyed playing on the playground and getting a drink on the way home. We stopped by the Wilson's house on the way home to check on the barn raising. Then it was home for bedtime.
When we pulled into the driveway, I saw someone running. They weren't running from our house but they were running in our yard and not on driveway. I pointed this out to Robby and we went for a drive down our road just to check things out. The kids had no idea why we were speeding down the driveway. Just when we thought the runner had vanished, we saw our neighbor (who is in his 60s) with his kid. Robby rolled down the window to make sure everything was alright. Neighbor man said that the boy was having a meltdown...so I guess that Whitman wasn't the only runner in the neighborhood. But gracious, old neighbor man sure can run! After this excitement, we headed home for showers, teeth and bed!

April 27, 2016

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Only 2 more Wednesday mornings with CBS this school year and after staying up until 2 last night, Robby and I knew that we would have to get moving early this morning. When we went to sleep Robby said that the storms would wake us up but they never did. I am glad that we still set our alarms since the rain was a no-show today. (I hope that the rain is also a no-show on Saturday because Reagan is counting on playing her friends and she has high hopes of beating their team.)
We were able to get everything accomplished this morning that we needed to and then all loaded up for Bible study. Graham was pretty excited because today was his snack day and everyone else was excited about singing during their end of the year program. I was more on the nervous side about this because Whitman did pretty well at Christmas but surely that wouldn't happen again.
When the program began, the big 3 were first and I was not the only one who was a bit nervous. My little, confident Reagan stood there with her hands constantly moving-twisting her hair, fixing her sweater-I would never imagine that she would be nervous on stage but she sure looked it. At least Graham and Anderson's hands were still-mainly because they were shoved into their shorts pockets. They did great and sang 3 different songs.
Then we had Campbell and her class. My little Campbell wasn't doing anything with her hands at all-especially none of the hand motions. That little cutie would just grin and sing away. Then we had Keaton and Whitman's classes. Now Keaton was a little angel, singing, smiling and absolutely perfect. And then Whitman-he stood in his spot the entire time (and it was pretty long for a little guy.) He did the hand motions and even looked like he was singing. We couldn't have been prouder of all of our Dennies-so proud, in fact, that they received Sonic drinks on the way home from Beebees this afternoon.
After the program, we headed to a playground to play. The playground is one of my favorites and the kids loved it too. They could have stayed longer but we all left and then saw Beebee. She was wondering where we were and had already called me twice by the time that we made it. She had jewelry that she needed for us to untangle so I went right to work on that.
This afternoon the kids drank their Sonic drinks, rode their bikes, played basketball, played their kindles, watched tv, played the xbox and even read. I am not sure how we were able to cram all of this in during the almost 3 hours that we were home before turning around leaving for church again.
We ran by the library and then on to church tonight. There are only 3 more Wednesday nights before our summer break begins and I am certainly counting down for that. Graham is not because he is trying to master the books of the Bible and Reagan is trying to learn all of her previous verses before then.
Once at home, we changed into our pjs and then the kids had a snack before going to bed. I think that my little singers were pretty tired from this busy day.

April 26, 2016

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Graham had been told yesterday that as soon as he walked down the stairs, he was to start on his school work at his desk so after I realized that he was downstairs already working on school, I was up starting everyone's day. Robby went upstairs to wake Keaton up. She was of course ready to go to school and had already picked out a cute dress to wear. I am sure that Ms. Jennifer thought that we were confused about what day was picture day-that is how cute she looked this morning as she bounded out of the house with her pop tart in hand.
I caved and let everyone have a pop tart this morning not really realizing that that means that tomorrow will have to be our toast and yogurt day which means I will need to wake up fairly early and since we are out of yogurt in the house and probably don't have any outside then there will be some unhappy little Dennies running around-but that is for tomorrow's blog and not todays.
After our breakfast, we started our school. Campbell worked with Whitman some today on his letters but he wasn't too interested-Robby had left his closet door unlocked so it didn't take Whitman too long to find his kindle this morning and wasn't too pleased with me whenever I would hide it! I believe that I have high expectations each summer but this summer, I really would love for Whitman to learn his letters and sounds (he already knows many of them), Keaton to start her reading book and Graham to improve his handwriting. And while we are at it, I think it would be neat to do a little study on proper nutrition...or we could all just play outside, ride bikes, watch tv and go swimming-like people really should in the summer time.
School was fairly noneventful this morning. Reagan was finished really early which makes me think that I might should give her more school work. She immediately started cleaning things up without being asked and then spent the rest of the time reading in her bed (wonder if she has done something wrong that I just don't know about yet and she is trying to be really good until I find out?)
We had our lunch and then all of us started on our chores. The boys had to bring snack for their class tomorrow so they "helped" me make cookies. Anderson poured in the mix and stirred and Graham cracked the egg and then stirred and then they both left. We had not even finished properly stirring the mix much less put them on the cookie sheet or cleaned up. I was a bit shocked and even thought about calling them back to finish helping but my trusty afternoon sidekick, Campbell, was with me and she faithfully helped me work until the end.
I walked on the treadmill today-first for 2 minutes and then someone came and asked me a question and I had to stop. Then for 8 minutes when Whitman fell on top of the treadmill so I had to jerk out the safety switch so we wouldn't tumble on each other. (He wasn't hurt or phased at all-though I did try to convince him that he was hurt badly and that falling on the treadmill was very scary.) About 10 minutes later, he was laying in the floor beside the treadmill and flipped the power switch to it-I came to a sudden, jerky stop pulling a muscle in my neck! After that I just tried my best to guess when I had been on there for 30 minutes and was reminded why I really should run in the morning time.
I had spaghetti made for supper and pretty much as soon as Robby and Keaton made it home, we plated the food and I left for bunko. After supper, everyone went back outside and were outside until after 8. They quickly had their showers and then went straight to bed.

April 25, 2016

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I was up a bit earlier than usual this morning and felt that I was kind of ahead when the morning started but that feeling only lasted for a bit. Cereal and fruit were the items for this morning's breakfast. Whitman is slowly starting to sit on a bar stool for some of his meals and this morning he was successful at that and didn't get placed back in his high chair.
School started and even though we are nearly finished (this had actually been my last scheduled week of school-though we are going to do at least 2 more weeks before slowing down for our summer break) the day was still fairly rocky. The boys were still finishing school at 2 and Campbell finished her last bit before supper. She is in kindergarten and I promise you that she has no more than an hours worth of work but everything else is so fascinating to her that school work is the last thing on her brain.
Keaton and Whitman played for a bit this morning which kept him occupied but as soon as it was work together time Whitman found his kindle and Keaton was happy to work with us because we all had a piece of candy...or two.
Lunch and then chores. We were a bit later than usual finishing lunch so Reagan was ready to get started on her kindle and movie time so she was on fire during chores. I would look at my list to hand off another chore and she would tell me that she already had finished it. I am not too certain what I would do without my Reagan.
This afternoon went by way too fast-I spent some time on the treadmill and then came downstairs to pass out the kids snack. Just like last Wednesday, as soon as I passed out their snack, I returned to the kitchen to start preparing supper. Today's supper was leftovers so that was pretty easy and everyone put on their soccer jersey as I heated things up.
This was soccer picture day at practice so everyone dressed in their uniforms. Whitman was determined to wear himself a uniform. I had to find long socks for him to wear after he became mad that his other ones would not pull all the way up to his knees. I did find him dark shorts and we looked for a shirt with a soccer ball but didn't find one. He did happily settle for a shirt with a football on it.
Robby took the girls to practice and a bit later I headed that way with the boys. The plan was for me to take the girls home when the boys practice started but Reagan's pictures went long so we were there longer than usual. That was fine since we had a bit of time to play a soccer game-the girls and I. And yes, Reagan smoked me.
Once at home, my girls and Whitman took their showers and just as soon as they were out of the showers, the boys were home. We sent everyone to bed since they were tire and all anxious to read.

April 24, 2016

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Last night as we were going to bed, we emptied the dishwasher and then I climbed into bed. The next thing I knew, Robby was dumping the clean laundry on the bed and turning on the light. He reminded me that us doing the laundry at midnight on a Saturday night was necessary for a smooth-er Monday and a Sunday afternoon nap. Hearing those words happily woke me up enough to fold and put away all those clothes (actually the kids clothes were just folded and lined against my wall-they can put theirs up tomorrow with the load or two that we are washing tonight).
As I was dressing Whitman this morning, Robby reminded him of walking into his Sunday school class like a big boy and I guess it was that thought that reminded him that today was doughnut day. He immediately started asking for his breakfast doughnuts. Robby had bought cinnamon rolls yesterday at Sams but Whitman wanted himself some doughnuts so that is what he had!
Church this morning-we voted on the new preacher man (the boys didn't understand why there was only one choice to vote for) and Robby and I were greeters before Sunday school. Graham's class celebrated Passover. Keaton did tell us at lunch that a kid in her Sunday school class hit her on Easter-this caused a big stir at the table. Anderson and Graham both concluded that they were going to watch out for their little sister and not let this happen again.
This afternoon I did get that afternoon nap. Robby and I laid down and he said that we had to get up when the first person came into our room. Now our nap was only 45 minutes but I knew waking up when one person came in wouldn't work at all. I told him that the 8th time someone came in, we would wake up. In seconds after this conversation Reagan was in asking about snack. Then Keaton asking about snack followed by Graham, yes, he was also asking about snack. Thankfully Robby was asleep the 8th through 10th times that people came in our room but the nap was still pretty wonderful-though I am not too sure how much napping was actually accomplished.
We then headed back to church early for a meeting and then on to big church for the choir's night of worship. They also announced that Dave did win the vote which is exciting for our church. Keaton and Whitman had been in their class for quite a while so at 7 I went to pick them up. I brought them into church to hear a bit of the music-we walked in during a particularly loud portion. I was holding Whitman singing away when Whitman grabbed my face and turned me toward him and then shouted "sing quieter!" That was pretty much our cue that it would be fine to walk around the halls for just a few minutes instead of staying in the church house.
After church we went with the McGuires out to eat. The kids really enjoyed this but Graham was disappointed that they were not going to be able to read tonight because it was too late. Robby tried to explain that they could read anytime during the day that they wanted to. The kids just looked at him like he was crazy. Graham said "well, that is no fun...you don't get to use a flashlight." Robby reminded him that he could read in a closet anytime that he would like!

April 23, 2016

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Soccer morning and the boys were up before we were like usual but today we were up pretty soon after they were. This was our last day that our games would start at 10, so we were practicing getting ready for next weeks early game. Everyone put on their clothes, we brushed hair and teeth and then everyone ate their breakfast.
Whitman wasn't able to finish his breakfast since he had a late start-that boys was exhausted this morning and after his door had been open for 10 minutes, I finally had to go in and wake him up. He did finish breakfast in the car as Robby ran into the grocery store and then as we waited on them to take our order at Sonic-we had to leave Sonic though because they came on the speaker saying that they weren't taken orders at that time (odd!) That was probably fine though because Campbell was convinced that we had only 2 minutes to get to Raymar before their soccer game.
As we were waiting for Campbell and Keaton to run through the tunnel, Whitman was on their field playing a bit of soccer himself...until the music came one. Then the child started dancing-his arms were waving, hips swaying and he would even throw in a kick of the ball in time with the music. If he wasn't so darn cute, I would be a bit embarrassed. He even garnered so much attention that the people on the other side of the field clapped and cheered for his little dance routine.
The girls game was first and man, was Campbell playing hard today. That little girl runs her heart out during the games. Keaton worked really hard too and isn't afraid of those big kids (like her sister, Campbell, who towers over everyone.) Whenever she kicks the ball, we all scream and yell like she has scored a goal. I do believe that that their team won today.
Next up was Reagan and Graham's game. I enjoyed only having 2 games to watch at the same time instead of 3. Reagan is everywhere on the field-she is here, she is there, she kicking the ball, she is blocking a score, she is throwing the ball in. She didn't score a bunch today but her team won and I promise you that she is instrumental to her team's success.
Graham was playing on the other side of the field. His team did really well but that didn't win. My Graham hangs back a bit during the games and doesn't get into the mix but he did much better this week. After Graham's game, we headed over to the pavilion and had our hot dogs and chips while waiting for Anderson' game to start.
I really enjoyed watching Anderson's team play today. Those boys would knock someone down and then fall all over themselves trying to help someone up. At one point, two little guys from Anderson's team hugged and celebrated after scoring-you would have thought that they had just won the Super Bowl (or whatever the soccer equivalent is) Anderson played a little guy that was probably kin to Pele so they never had a chance but Anderson would get in the boys way and trip him up a bit thus slowing him down some.
On the way home, the kids all talked about their games. Their take on things is always pretty interesting. Anderson said that his team won but we broke it to him through our laughter that the score was more like 2-16. Reagan said that she was going to coach when she was old enough (if she has enough confidence in herself she would be an excellent coach-she is already coaching her team while on the field as is). And Keaton chimed in that she was going to be a coach and a teacher.
Whitman had gone home with Grannymom and the rest of us ran home for exactly 10 minutes. The kids changed clothes and Robby loaded 5 bikes in the back of the car. Then we headed off to Burns Park for Brody's birthday party. It was at the BMX bike park and the kids had a blast. It was hot but they rode and rode and rode some more around the track.
Reagan rode some (we had taken Layne's bike for Reagan to ride since hers is currently missing a pedal but she rode it very little since the pink and purple streamers did not suit her taste). The boys rode a bunch and had a blast going up and down the hills. But Campbell rode the entire time. Her face was red, her shirt was dusty and she was exhausted when it was over. We could not believe how much that child rode. Now when we arrived we learned that you couldn't ride with training wheels so Keaton couldn't ride her bike. She did ride a bunch in the parking lot and rode a tiny bit with me holding her up over the track. But then she did borrow a 3 wheeler and rode it on the track-I had to push her up the hills (one I had trouble getting up myself on my 2 feet). She had a blast as well even though she wasn't able to ride to much.
After the party was over, we picked up Whitman and Robby ended his day the same way he begin-running into the grocery store. This time Sams but he picked up enough stuff for supper and then we came home for showers for everyone. It has been a while since I have felt so filthy and I was anxious to get my shower as well.
Once we were all clean, we had fajitas for supper and Anderson said "this meal is to die for" so I guess it was pretty good. By the time supper was over, it was after 8 so my exhausted kids headed on to bed!

April 22, 2016

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Friday morning and after breakfast we started on school. Campbell decided that she wanted to work on the patio which was fine with me but she didn't get too much work accomplished out there but everyone ended up working outside for a bit. There was lots of in and out and in and out and if Robby or I had been nearby we probably would have shouted "where you raised in a barn?" a few times. By the end of school time, the entire house smelled like outside.
We started to do all of our together work at 11 but one too many people talked back to me and I had all that I could take. So I just cleaned up our pile of stuff to do and told the kids to do their chores and then finish school, I had had enough. That always does seem to catch their attention. My big 3 seem to be talking back quite a bit lately (or I am just noticing it more) and it just has to stop and since Robby won't let me by those shock collars that I saw in a magazine I just don't know what I am going to do!
We then had our lunch and by the time that we had finished, Grannyom and Grandpa were over and work began on our second slide replacement. This slide will hopefully last a long while since Grandpa and Robby firmly secured it. Robby has already gone down it and word from Keaton was that Grandpa also ventured down the slide.
So all afternoon was spent outside-there were basketball games, stick picking up, kickball games, raking (well we started to but then Robby changed his mind), swinging, bike riding (Keaton even tried a bit without her training wheels) and lots of tree watering (Whitman was happy to "water" the trees for me-unfortunately he also did lots of watering of my carpet and bathroom floor today as well)
Speaking of Whitman and water (real water, this time), while we were all outside, Reagan came running to get me. Whitman was standing at the kitchen sink using the sprayer and hosing down my entire kitchen. Paper towels, napkins, pictures all ruined-at least my ceiling seem to be drying fine. It took 4 bath towels to semi-dry up the mess-nothing surprises me anymore.
The kids were tired by the time that we came in the house-whenever they are asking to go in and take showers it is pretty obvious. Once everyone was cleaned up, Robby and I started on pancakes and cobbler for supper and it was sure a hit.
Tony and Brett stopped by for a few minutes and we all watched the end of the Hogs baseball game on tv. Once they left, we sent our kiddos to bed because we need well rested people for tomorrow.

April 21, 2016

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Days when our homeschool friends come over are full of excitement so everyone wakes early. We first heard the boys whispering at our door and then Graham came in and asked me if they could play on their kindles. I said "yes" and Graham had to re-ask me the same question just to make sure he heard me correctly.
We got Ms. Keaton dressed and ready to go to school. She was excited about school and excited about playing with her friends. Keaton also can not wait to take her project to school to show Ms. Jennifer. After Robby and her left, the rest of us started to work on the house. The kids worked hard straightening their rooms-probably helped that I had said that we would eat breakfast once the house was cleaned.
So am I getting shorter or is my 2nd grader gaining too much NFL knowledge? Today as I was rehanging G's indoor basketball goal for the zillionth time, he asked how tall I was. I told him and he quickly commented "you are as tall as the shortest player to play in the NFL" and went on to tell his name and top stats. And I just stared at him.
Our buddies started arriving and since the day was so perfect outside, we ended up playing outdoors for a good while and then heading inside to present the kids' projects. Everyone made a model of something and everyone was very pleased with their work.
Reagan made a cake in the shape of the earth complete with the different layers of the earth baked into the cake. When we sliced her cake today so we could have a piece to show the layers of the earth, Reagan said "I won." I reminded her that this was not a contest but she again said "yes, but I still won!" Hmm, she sounds like someone familiar...I just do not know who! (me!)
Anderson made a lego mode of Arkansas. He had the mountain ranges (Ozark and Ouachita), tallest peak (Mt. Magazine), rivers and major cities. Anderson loves him some legos so he really enjoyed this project and liked showing off his creation.
Graham made a cookie map of the US. He had the Great Lakes, D.C., Little Rock, the Great Plains, the tallest peak, mountain ranges and even deserts shown on his map. His and Reagan's were really, really neat and I did hate to slice them up and serve them this afternoon but at least I do not have to wonder what to do with them now (like I am for everyone else's projects.)
Campbell made a pasta and tissue paper map of the earth with all of the continents and oceans labeled. She was so adorable because after she showed off her project, she sang a song about the continents and then one about the oceans.
Nonna had picked up Keaton so she arrived just as Campbell, who was the last one was finishing, so Keaton was next. She jumped right up there and showed everyone her marshmallow and toothpick shapes. She had many shapes she knew but even a few that she is still learning (octagon and pentagon-which she just calls "the house shape.")
Whitman didn't have a project and has never had one to present. But this time, I probably would have helped him make something but the one thing that he could have done very well was already taken by Keaton-he is the shape master! Next year, he will have to start presenting projects himself-that will be a hoot!
After the kids finished, we all ate and then the kids played outside for the rest of the time. Everyone left a bit earlier than usual so we had cleaned up the yard and the house by 2.
After the kids ate their Popsicles, Whitman managed to take all of his clothes off and climb in the short shower. His helpful brothers and sisters helped him turn on the water as I headed back to the kitchen. After hearing Campbell scream for 5 minutes, I rushed to check on her. Whitman had taken the sprayer and soaking his sister along with the entire laundry room! Campbell was in tears as I shouted to turn the water off. Whitman has a good shower; Campbell not so much.
Once the wet ones were dry, Whitman, Keaton and I laid in the floor of my room and spend the afternoon there-watching movies, wrestling and trying to take a nap (me!)
When Robby came home, we headed out to grab a bite to eat. We couldn't decide where to go-Madeline's (too full), Zoes (too empty), Chick Fil A (too noisy), Davids (not exactly the one), Jason's Deli (too boring) and then we finally settled on Backyard Burger. We did drive past and even into all of the parking lots of the above places but just couldn't decide what we wanted-probably should have just made pancakes at home but it was good to get out.
Backyard Burger was pretty good. They did only have about 10 chairs in the restaurant since it is mainly a drive thru. So our family squeezed into a table with a man and a dog on one side of us and I was practically sitting in another man's lap. The food hit the spot and then the doughnuts that we had on the way home hit the spot as well.
We drove around a bit on the way home-which always freaks the kids out. They immediately think that we are lost or are looking for a new house to move into (neither). Then it was home for showers and bedtime! I know that I have talked about this for a few days but it is sure something that the kids now rush to bed since they get the chance to read. And when someone wants to go to bed, far be it from us to make them stay up which means earlier bedtimes!

April 20, 2016

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I am not sure that I would make it to Bible study on time on Wednesday mornings if it was not for the boys traipsing through our room at 7:01 with their trash bags in hand headed to empty the trash cans. They know that as soon as they dress and do a few chores then they can play their kindle until breakfast and they waste no time at all getting this things accomplished.
Hearing those trash bags was actually my first clue that today was Wednesday. At least I knew it would be Wednesday last night and everything was laid out and ready to go. We dressed, had our breakfast and then the kids folded the laundry as I cleaned the pottys.
After Bible study it was raining (it always seems to be raining on Wednesdays lately) so we headed back to Rock Creek. The kids do like it there but most other days it has been beautiful outside but never seems to be pretty on days that the kids can play outside with their friends (like tomorrow!)
We traded one homebound visit for another today-we skipped going to see Beebee and went to see Pops instead. The kids had not seem him since his surgery and were pretty pleased to see him walking around. Keaton has been praying that Pops could get better so he can go to church and come and watch them play soccer. And it looks like he is well on his way to healing up and soon being at church and soccer.
Once at home, Reagan and I worked on a cake shaped like the earth. It doesn't look nearly as cute as the one on pinterest but it sure is pretty cute. Reagan even did quite a bit of the work on it so they helped (she worked and I cleaned up the mess we had made).
Afterwards, we did a bit of science and when we had finished all of this, it was already 4. The kids were begging for a snack so I went ahead and passed out a snack and then walked right back in the kitchen to start heating up supper.
When Robby came home, we headed out so I could run into the library before church. Whitman went to church in his big boy underwear (by an accident) and stayed dry the entire time (I did urge the teacher to put a diaper on him just in case!)
Once at home, we all had a snack and then it was bedtime-everyone is thrilled with my new library book selection. And I am thrilled that they are enjoying their reading time.

April 19, 2016

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Tuesday morning and my first mission of the morning was to get Robby and Keaton out the door for work and school. Keaton was ready to go and so loves school. I know that she will miss Ms. Jennifer this summer.
After they left, we headed to the bar for breakfast. Today and yesterday Reagan has asked for me to make chocolate chip muffins but I have tried my best to hold fast to the breakfast menu since I have become pretty lax with the snack menu that I try to follow. She seemed fine about not being able to eat muffins especially when I let her make the cinnamon toast for everyone.
School went fairly well today. The kids worked well and Whitman sat quietly and played with some of his little toys (seriously). When Keaton isn't home, school is just a bit quieter and a bit less messy. Graham was the first one finished and helped make a scavenger hunt with Campbell.
We had our lunch and then quickly worked on our chores so we could start working on our projects for Thursday. I am the one who suggested that everyone bring a model of something-why in the world did I do that to myself? Graham and I completed his cookie map of the US (my favorite project). Then Reagan and I began work on her layers of the earth cake. We still have to put it together tomorrow and ice it (eeek!) but we are both pretty convinced that this cake will not look anything like the one that we saw on pinterest. I even asked her if she could think of a back up plan! Then Campbell and I worked on labeling her noodle map of the earth. When Whitman saw Campbell's earth, he shouted, "a planet."
Right before Robby and Keaton made it home, I ended up outside playing kickball with the kids. It was chilly out there today and I had only said that I would play until Robby came in. Just as the first pitch was rolled in, Robby and Keaton drove up. Keaton played with us for a bit and I stayed longer than I had said that I would since the kids were in a fairly good moods during the game.
Then it was supper time. I do believe that Robby, Reagan and I were the only ones who ate our meal-Whitman did eat a few bites when Robby told him that he had to eat or he would not get a cupcake. After the kitchen was clean (rice and cupcakes crumbs-gracious me!) the kids had showers and then we watched a movie.
Whitman fell asleep during the movie and Keaton was not too far behind him. The movie lasted until 9 so when it was bedtime, my crew was pretty exhausted!

April 18, 2016

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Monday morning and we again stayed in bed as long as possible. That isn't the best way to start a Monday or any day for that matter but it sure was nice. Whitman had fallen asleep in bed with Robby yesterday during Sunday afternoon naps and I snuggled with him hoping that he would fall asleep with me but I had no such luck. I finally trudged up the stairs to wake up my big girl and my little girl and then we all had our breakfast.
We had vacuumed on Friday so I had already marked that off of today's chore list (I am pretty lenient with marking my chores off of the list). But I let the kids take their breakfast cereal to work at the school spots so I made it very clear that we could not spill any cereal or we would revacuum the entire house. They understood and all did pretty good but I guess I was not too clear with Whitman-he dumped some cereal everywhere in the school room. But everyone was very helpful and scurried to pick everything up so we did not have to vacuum. None of my people seem to like vacuuming which is odd because it is probably one of my favorite chores (now, I do not do it often at all though-that is why I had children!)
School went fairly smooth. Campbell has finished her spelling, Graham and Reagan have finished their English book and he only has one more word left to spell correctly for me (I'll) before I will let him officially finish his spelling book so my time working with each kiddo has drastically reduced so that makes the day go much smoother but even with all of my extra time, I was still not able to fold all of the laundry before lunch.
After lunch, we did our chores and worked hard on the kids projects for Thursday. Keaton and Anderson finished with theirs and Campbell is not too far behind. The main part of Graham's will be finished tomorrow and hopefully Reagan's will take shape tomorrow (baking the layers of the earth-eek!)
As soon as Campbell was able she high tailed it outside. I certainly am glad that she wants to go outside all of the time and she was perfectly content out there even though her friend didn't come out to play. Keaton and she played for a bit until Robby came home with pizza for supper.
The girls gobbled theirs down and then they headed off to soccer practice. While they were gone, the boys played on their kindles and I worked on re-stringing Graham's blinds (oh, what an exciting life I lead!) It wasn't hard to do but I had to work while it was still hanging up so my arms became tired-it was a good thing I had the boys here to come up and hold the blinds up so I could work.
Before I knew it, we were rushing out the door to take the boys to soccer practice. I dropped them off so they could run something to Robby and then Whitman and I parked the car and got out. We stayed for a few minutes and then headed home with the girls. I threw them in the showers and just as soon as they were out, the boys were home to get in the showers.
We have let the kids start reading in their beds at night. This is probably a poor move since Whitman really needs to be up there sleeping and not still in his pack n play but the kids are thrilled about getting to read at night. We will see how long this lasts-so far tonight it is still quiet up there so I guess all is going well.

April 17, 2016

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Sunday morning and the first thing I heard this morning was Graham asking what shirt was his. I told him but then suddenly woke up remembering that the boys were the only ones who had been lacking in the shower department from yesterday. I reminded him of his shower and off he went. A bit later Anderson had his shower and I am certain that I told both boys during their showers to "use soap." But oddly enough when I got in the shower this morning and grabbed the soap, it was as dry as it could be. Not exactly sure how that happened!
I taught Sunday school this morning and Robby did worship care. We met up in the hallway before climbing in our separate cars and heading to Grannymom's house for lunch. It wasn't anyone's birthday but we still had a favorite of most Dennies, oreo delight. Afterwards, the kids had some time to play outside before I loaded up with my boys and headed to their second nerf gun birthday party in less than 24 hours (just barely).
This party was Jacob's birthday party and the kids had about a zillion bullets to shoot at each other. They were divided into teams but I don't think that really mattered-they all had a blast running around hiding behind trees and shooting at their friends. By the time the party was over, Graham was exhausted and we headed home for showers.
This afternoon I was explaining to the boys how tonight's service would work (question and answer time with our new lead pastor candidate, Hughey) I explained that Hughey would talk about his vision for the church and what he believes. Anderson, who had already asked about how long the service would be, commented "I hope that he says 'I believe in Jesus. Thank you and you are dismissed.'"
Church lasted a bit longer than Anderson had hoped but not too long at all. We soon were out on the playground playing. The kids organized a game of kickball before we headed home. We had just finished passing out sandwiches when Candice text about their car being stalled so Robby went to rescue them. I commented to my buddies that they sure laugh at my big ole van but when someone needs rescuing on the side of the road, who do they call?
It worked out well for Robby-I tucked the kids into bed while he was gone and it worked out well for me-Robby brought home supper for me. Right now, he has gone back out to pick up Wes and I am hoping that he brings home dessert!

April 16, 2016

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We have one more Saturday with a late soccer game so we enjoyed this lazy morning tremendously. Though, when you have to leave the house 45 minutes after you wake up, calling it a "lazy morning" is probably not too accurate.
The kids do not take long to get ready on a soccer game day and while the scarfed down monkey bread while I was helping load the car and Robby was filling the ice chests. As we drove down the road, we were surprised with the rainy mist. I had already made a mental note to put sunscreen on everyone before the games but there was no need today-it was a misty, cloudy morning.
Keaton and Campbell's game was first. They played a tough team but again they did just great. Campbell played hard and ran and ran up and down that field. Keaton didn't show any fear and kicked the ball quite a few times. Couldn't be prouder.
Everyone else played during the next game and the Wilsons were there to cheer the kids on. Graham's team just lost by one point but he also played hard. Anderson's team won this game and he also played great today. And then Reagan's team probably lost but Reagan is such a strategic soccer player and is a defense star.
Win or lose, the kids had fun and so did we. When we came home, we grilled hot dogs and then the kids went out to play with the neighbors for a while. Andersos and Graham didn't have too long to play because soon we were headed to Wyatt's birthday party.
The party was a nerf gun party and the boys played a few nerf gun wars and then ran an obstacle course before eating cupcakes. The boys had a blast running around shooting each other-including taking time to make sure all of the moms were hit with the nerf guns.
Whitman had spent the afternoon at Grannymom's house and a bit after we returned home from the party, they brought him back home. I am sure that he was already tired after spending most of the morning running away from me or trying to run out on the soccer field. We were home for a bit longer before heading to the Wilson's for supper. The kids played outside and even inside (they all seemed pretty tired tonight-maybe because they were exhausted)
After supper, Campbell and Shannon made cookies which we all soon devoured. We stayed out until 10:30 and then hurried home to put my babies into bed! I am sure that they were just as tired as I am!

April 15, 2016

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It was a pretty lovely morning around here-everyone was tired so they stayed in bed later than usual and those that were up were fairly quiet. I would usually get a bit uptight about not starting school by 8ish but oh, well, life happens that the bed sure was cozy this morning.
We did start school pretty close to 8:30 and the kids started school well. Graham, who has been working all week in Robby's old office, mentioned one time that he was going to move back to his desk on Monday. I hope that he forgets that idea because he has been doing great this week so I hope that Robby's old office become Graham's new school desk.
We finished school (all but Campbell-she may really be the one who needs to be working away from everyone else) and then started on the days chores. The kids helped out quite a bit on the chores but the best part was having them help me cook-everyone got in on helping make monkey bread. Reagan was going to help cook my sausage for me but she decided that her kindle was more appealing.
We have been working on school projects for next week and today we kicked our work into high gear. Campbell worked hard gluing pasta, Keaton's project is on shapes so she had lots of things to write and Anderson had to re-work his lego model of Arkansas. We were doing school and Keaton walked in and said "Anderson, Whitman is messing up your legos." We ran in the school room to see legos strewn everywhere but we were able to quickly get things back in order but we were sure were panicked for a bit.
The afternoon flew by with me staying busy cooking for the Penningtons and McGuires. When it was almost time for them to come, the kids all went to the driveway and just sat outside waiting on them to come. When they did arrive the kids all played outside for a long while.
For supper we had bacon, hashbrowns, breakfast casserole, pancakes and monkey bread for dessert. The kids gobbled up the pancakes and bacon. The grownups were able to talk as the kids played and for some reason they all played really well together. I did keep Whitman pretty close to me because I didn't want him running down the street (has he did earlier today) or pouring out all of the cup in the kitchen (he just settled on pouring out a pitcher of lemonade)
Everyone stayed until 10 and when they left, we hurried around and picked everything up and gave the kids showers. Then it was bedtime for all my soccer players.

April 14, 2016

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We woke up a bit later than planned this morning but still had time to get everyone ready and to start our breakfast and school day at a decent time. Robby took Keaton, Whitman and Campbell with him this morning and wow, what a difference it made during school. Everyone finished before their usual finish time and it was almost angelic as they all worked. And when it was time to clean up there was hardly anything to pick up. Next year we will have two quiet days when Whitman and Keaton are in school but even though it is quiet and peaceful around here without those two, I sure will miss them when they are not here.
Whitman and Campbell came home with a car full of groceries and lots of tales about the snacks that they had eaten. It took a long while to put everything away and then we all sat down and worked on our science for a bit. I am on a mad dash to complete science before the end of the school year. The kids have really enjoyed science this year but that curriculum was just a one time thing so now I will have to decide what we want to do next year.
We had our lunch and the kids experienced pita pockets for the first time. Not only did the enjoy eating something different, they were so excited about them that they wanted to make their own sandwiches. I, of course, agreed. After lunch we did a bit of cleaning and then the kids started to migrate outside. Robby was already outside working and soon I came out.
It didn't take long for my Campbell, who was riding her bike in front of the neighbor girl's house, to convince their crew to come outside so we all had a yard full. Campbell's friend and her older brother and sister along with the other neighbor boy all spent most of the afternoon and a good bit of the evening playing in the yard.
I overheard Reagan and the other girl talking about school. They were comparing subjects and then talking about how their other friends just "didn't get" homeschooling. Around 3, I left to pick up Keaton and Whitman went along with me for the ride. She had a good time at school today (even with a substitute who didn't know what to do but had a blue list) and a great time at Grannymom and Grandpa's house.
As we were driving home from Grannymom's house, Whitman looked over and spotted a water fountain spewing water high into the air. He immediately shouted, "look, a volcano!" I assured him that it wasn't a volcano but he kept wanting to turn around so he could see it again.
Back at home, the kids were still playing outside and after a good 4ish hours outside, they were a stinky and muddy mess. We were able to have dinner before we started showering everyone and then we all worked on cleaning and straightening the house a little bit. The girls could hardly wait to go to bed tonight because they were going to get to read in their beds with their flashlights.

April 13, 2016

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Bible study morning and it immediately begin with disappointment for the kids-we had planned on the little girls going to Sara's house this afternoon but they were all sick. So as I was trying to get everyone out the door this morning, Keaton was sitting under a chair crying. She really would have been devastated to learn that they were going to play in a creek too this afternoon. It made things a bit better when they learned that we were still going to bring home all the healthy folks this afternoon.
We did Bible study and Whitman's teacher told me that he did really good today-did his craft, listened during story time and was so helpful. That is all well and good but it makes me wonder if most weeks he doesn't do well. I know that I have told parents the same thing before when their kids did well in my classes at church...but that is mainly because those kids usually didn't do well. I guess I will settle for him being good half of the time!
We had planned on going to a park after Bible study but our phones said that the temperature was still cool and then when we went outside, it was raining again. The kids are so used to us going to Rock Creek every Wednesday but why must it rain every single Wednesday? We just want to go to a park and eat our lunch and play outside.
Today though at Rock Creek, the tubes were closed. What were we going to do-lots of kiddos and it raining. We still walked on in and sat down to eat our lunch in their church house. I guess the building was closed because they were getting ready for a concert so we felt like we had to be very, very quiet-so we were. We hid behind the rock baptistry area as we ate our lunch. Whitman looked over at the rock structure and said "that's the tomb where Jesus died"-pretty smart little boy.
After we ate, we loaded up-and I loaded up a few extra kiddos with me (Noah, Kennedy, Alyssa Kate and Caroline). That is a total of 10 kiddos and I figured that I needed to kill as much time of the afternoon as I could since we didn't stay long at Rock Creek. So we went to see Beebee-she was tickled to see the whole crew and I was thankful that her candy bucket was filled to the brim. I had told Whitman that we were bringing his puzzle so he could show Beebee. As soon as we found Beebee in the dining area, he started pushing back bowls and plates so he would have room for his puzzle.
Once we came home, the kids played outside for a bit and then all came in. The boys were a bit rowdy so I caved and let everyone turn on their screens. The girls watched a movie and then the boys watched 2 tv shows plus there was some xbox playing. Caroline and Campbell did play baby dolls for a long while and soon Robby was home with pizza. The kids pretty much devoured the pizza and soon we were headed to church.
Tonight was a night that Reagan and all the other 4th graders went to the preteen for a little bit. She said that she was going to miss choir and that all they did in the preteens was "sing a song, sing another song, the man preached a tiny bit, then they sang 2 more songs and he preached for a long time."
Once at home, the kids had a snack and then it was bedtime for them-I am sure that they are all really tired tonight (I know that I am!)

April 12, 2016

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Do you ever lay in bed listening to a noise wondering what it is? Well, we did this morning but since it was after 7, we just assumed that it was a kid noise and not a scary noise. Finally, I figured out that it was someone playing with something in the kitchen floor but it took a bit longer before I realized that they were playing with blocks and not my silverware as it truly sounded like.
After the blocks had been adequately played with and picked up, we had our breakfast-yogurt and toast. Then it was time for us to start on our school. This would be a short day so the kids went right to work. It helped that they had accomplished a bit yesterday because they were soon finished and working on their chores and getting ready.
We met the Kamps and then went downtown for the Franklin Graham rally. We had been stressed about parking but we were able to pick up Robby and he dropped us off. Then he found himself a perfect spot and came back and met us. We soon found the Heltz' and Powells and were crowded in by church folks. We could see much of anything on the stage area but it was still much fun. The kids seemed to take it all in and of course it brought back lots of memories for Robby and me of going to the Billy Graham crusades years ago.
After the rally, we were able to eat our picnic on the grounds of the capital. Then Robby got our car and we all headed back home. Poor Whitman was still sound asleep (he fell asleep during the rally and then slept through lunch) when we drove through Sonic and finally made it home.
The kids played outside for a bit and then we worked on our science and some reading before they went back outside. When Robby came home, Campbell and Keaton were playing down at the neighbors house and Anderson was riding his bike with the neighbor boy. My Campbell is pretty obsessed with her new friend but I am super happy that she has a new little buddy.
We had delicious soup for supper and then everyone went back outside for a bit longer. I played soccer for the kids so I do believe that we made up for their missed soccer practice last night. After lots of soccer, lots of bike riding, lots of basketball and even lots of popsicles it was time to head in for showers and bed!

April 11, 2016

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We woke up to the sounds of a thunderstorm and I guess somehow the lull of the rain and the booming of the thunder caused the kids to sleep a big longer than usual and even though I knew that I should have woken them up so we could get started on school, I did not and just stayed in bed listening to the rain.
When the kids did start stirring, we quickly had our breakfast and then started on school. Today went fairly smoothly and I spent most of our school time folding the four completely full loads of laundry that we had washed yesterday and Saturday. I thought about taking a picture of my laundry pile but then decided that would waste a few precious seconds that I could have folded a shirt or two. Not only did it seem to take forever to fold everything, the kids thought that it took forever to put everything away.
Before school was over, it was pouring again and the kids all sat on the front porch listening to the rain. I thought about doing our work together time on the front porch but the wind was blowing so that we would have all been soaked by the time we had finished, so we just sat by a window to watch the rain as we worked.
School didn't go exactly smooth-I did move Graham to Robby's old office for the rest of the week. I don't know why the kids do not fight to work in there (though if I was doing school at home, I would choose my closet or the steps as my place to work) but instead the kids all want to be in the school room where it is just plumb crazy. Later in the day, Graham even helped me move his drawers filled with his school work and didn't seem to mind at all-hopefully, he will realize that he (and everyone else) will do so much better with him a bit further away.
We had our lunch and read a few stories. I always read our library books during lunch but each time a book is over, Whitman begins shouting "Thomas one now!" I do need to add a few of his stories to our lunch time reading. I am not too sure what we did after lunch but the next thing I know, it was nearly 3. I guess we did do a few chores and my middles finished their school work. Anderson and Keaton worked on their projects for our homeschool day next week and soon I was on the treadmill.
Robby came home with supper and we ate and then had a wonderfully lazy evening since soccer practice was cancelled due to all of the rain. I should hate the kids didn't get in one more practice before Saturday's game but really, I do not mind at all! Whitman went to bed first and he wasn't too pleased about it but soon everyone was asleep-well, I doubt that they are really asleep. I could hear the girls giggling and after I got on to them, Robby had to holler up the stairs at the boys for them to be quiet.

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