January 31, 2017

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• Since Whitman fell asleep on the ride home last night, we missed his shower so we did manage to wake up a few minutes earlier so he could have his shower this morning. He was perfectly happy on the couch between his brothers this morning and wasn't pleased at all about his shower. Once he was in the shower, he did warm up to the idea.
• I then made him a cupcake (muffin) for breakfast and poured cereal for Keaton. Everyone had cupcakes or cereal for breakfast-I am not entirely sure how Graham can make such a mess eating muffins or how Reagan can manage to spill cereal everywhere. Thankfully, they are both able to pick up their messes.
• We did our school and Anderson again got a head start by doing a bit of work this morning so he finished before I had finished making lunch. After we worked together, we played my new yahtzee game. 
• Since I made a giant jenga for Christmas, I thought that I needed a giant yahtzee to go with it. We all played and I forgot how long yahtzee can take. It will be great for our upcoming plane trip but wasn't so great for a Tuesday morning right before lunch. We finished half of the game and I promised everyone that we would finish the other half next time we did our science and history.
• I started to make our usual sandwiches for lunch when I saw the leftover pizza box. So it was pizza for everyone. Then the crew started working on chores. They again were done great today-no one wants to earn that extra chore. 
• Then the real work started-Reagan and Anderson both have snacks tomorrow for Bible study. Reagan made white chocolate chip blondies and then Anderson and Campbell made pumpkin chocolate chip muffins. I decided to double the muffins so they were panicked about the mixer overflowing the entire time. It was close but it never did overflow-I was a bit panicked too since it was like 4 cups of sugar, 6 cups of flour, 2 bags of chocolate chips and the list just went on and on. I will definitely make sure that my next mixer has a bit bigger bowl.
• As soon as the blondies were in the oven and the muffins were in the pans waiting on the oven, the kids all headed outside. They were in and out until the neighbors came out also. I spent some time on the treadmill. When Keaton and Whitman came home, everyone was outside and they were able to play while I finished supper.
• Tonight's meal was manicotti, spaghetti and green beans. The kids begged to have one of the muffins that we made this afternoon for supper so I obliged. Then it was time for a movie before bed. When we were half way finished with the movie, we remembered that we had already seen it!
• The kids were excited that we were going to let them stay up a bit later tonight in the rooms so they could read or draw. We have often been letting the girls do this but not the boys because of Whitman. Tonight though, they were able to try it and so far it sounds like things worked out well.

January 30, 2017

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• When I walked by the living room this morning, I said "where are my boys?" and Graham and Anderson were quick to shove Whitman's little head down so I wouldn't see him. I still knew that he was between his brothers and gave him a 5 minute warning before he had to put on his clothes. I think they wanted him to stay home with them today.
• Keaton was ready to head to school today since she had a bottle of vanilla and a shirt with a valentine on it. I guess you might have figured out that this week is V day in her class. She was quick to put on her clothes and head down to pick out her breakfast.
• They ate their breakfast in the car while the rest of us started on our breakfast and then headed to the school room. Anderson started right on his school work when he woke up and still made some time for his ipad before the day started. This bit of head start helped that boy out tremendously...he was the first one to finish school and of course he made sure that everyone knew about it.
• We had our lunch and then started on chores. Amber told me that if her kids didn't complete a chore well then they had to correct that chore but were also given another chore to do. That was a wonderful idea and just learning that I was going to implement this helped my crew do their chores with excellence.
• After we finished chores, I jumped on the treadmill for a bit. When I finished, Keaton and Whitman were arriving from Nonna and Pops' house. They had a fun afternoon playing and reading. When they left, the kids stayed in for a minute and then I kicked them out of the house.
• Reagan was none too pleased with me but I didn't care since they needed to get out and play. The neighbors soon came out to play and the kids weren't ready to come in when the neighbors were called home. 
• Once the yard was picked back up, we all loaded up to go and pick up pizzas. The kids ate in the car while I ran into Walmart and Sams to pick up a few things. Once at home, everyone had showers and then a snack before bed. The kids did earn an early bedtime tonight which made our evening pretty quiet-and nice!

January 29, 2017

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• Robby's phone went off this morning and it was incredibly loud so I must have been sour at his phone still when my alarm started dinging and I just turned that thing off. Turning off the alarm on a Sunday morning is never a good idea. The kids were already awake and by the time that we were stirring we could hear Whitman scooting stools around to get what he needed out of the cabinets. 
• Robby made cinnamon rolls for everyone and by the time that they were eating breakfast, I was dressed and ready and he headed to get himself ready. The kids were mostly ready so I just had to finish the kitchen, do hair and dress Whitman. He wasn't too happy about his sweater but did look adorable once it was on,
• We made it to church in just enough time to fly by and see all of the grands. Then it was Sunday school for everyone followed by big church. Afterwards, we headed to Nonna's house for lunch. 
• Nonna had made chili for us and even though we ate it last night it was a completely different meal-Nonna had many choices of crackers, chips and dips. After we ate, Nonna had also made a yummy heath bar cake. 
• The boys wanted to walk back through Beebee's house so Jason took them over there. A bit after they all arrived back, Keaton noticed a police car driving by and then another. Somehow Jason didn't get the alarm back on correctly and instead of calling Pops the alarm company called the police. So that was a bit of added excitement-especially when we told Anderson that he better hide that watch that he brought back from over there.
• This afternoon was spent just as Sunday afternoons should be-napping. I help Whitman long enough that he fell asleep with me until it was time for everyone to get moving again. I made supper and soon we were heading out the door for church tonight.
• It was just easier for Whitman to go with us than to go to class and he was pretty good during the service. Keaton did decided that she needed to go to the bathroom so Graham did too. It was okay since it was a bit more relaxed. Afterwards, we hurried home for ice cream truck night. 
• The kids had their ice cream and then went to finish up their movie. I worked with Whitman on his report for next week and then it was bedtime for them and ice cream time for me.

January 28, 2017

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• Only 4 kids here this morning since Whitman woke up at Grannymom's house and Reagan was at Alyssa Kate's birthday party. It is amazing the difference that two less kids make-it was pretty quiet around here. Whitman was quick to get his breakfast himself and the others were especially happy about making their own Saturday breakfast since there are a few more choices-breakfast burritos and pancakes on a stick.
• Keaton and Campbell did join us in our bed for a few minutes this morning-actually, it was for more than a few minutes. They would come for a while and then go back to the living room. They said that they slept in the same bed last night and decided that they were going to share a bed next time that Reagan was gone for the night. Tonight, they are getting that chance and those little girls are all snug in Campbell's bed tonight. I am not sure if that will last very long but they sure were cute when we tucked them in.
• This morning I worked on Whitman's oral report for February-yep, we are going to see if he can do one. It will just depend on his mood at the time but we will see. Keaton finished her Valentines with some help from Campbell. I cleaned the dishes and Robby folded the laundry. Basically, it was a fairly productive morning but there was still plenty that we could have accomplished.
• On the way to the basketball game this afternoon, we picked up the neighbor boys and my boys were thrilled to have buddies watching them play. Graham's team played first and they did great. I believe that this was Graham's highest scoring game with 10 points. At one point, one of Graham's teammates was kind of upset about a call and Graham put his hand out to try to quiet his teammate. 
• After they won the game, we went to the awards ceremony. The highlight was Graham getting his trophy and he was very proud of it. Next up was Anderson's game and his team was behind by quiet a few but they came back in the end and only lost by 1 point. It was a fun game to watch. Anderson didn't score any but he was all about blocking shots today. 
• Anderson received his trophy after his game. The boys both had a great time playing ball at Immanuel this season. I think that both of them greatly improved and I am pretty sure that we will be playing their next year.
• On the way home, we bought gas, dropped off the neighbors and then spied someone moving into the skinny window house. The For Sale sign is still up and the web doesn't say that it is under contract. They moved in a fridge and a dresser and now light are on over there. Hmm, it is all very interesting but we might just be getting new neighbors.
• We were home for about 45 minutes and then we turned around and headed to the McGuires for supper with them and the Penningtons. Amber had baked potatoes, chili and all of the fixings. Camryn had made a chocolate chip pound cake and it was very delicious. The kids were all good so we were able to talk with adults. It seems like everyone is at the age where we can just let them do their own thing and it is pretty nice.
• Reagan is spending the night with the McGuires and Whitman was a bit upset about leaving her-or he was just exhausted from our busy day. Either way, after fussing while getting in the car, he was silently asleep when we made it home. I lugged him upstairs while Robby helped the others get into the pajamas and climb into bed. 

January 27, 2017

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• Friday morning and I had no intentions of getting things started early this morning. It was still before 8 when everyone was pouring their cereal and heating up their poptarts. We were able to start on school at the normal time and things went pretty swell.
• Whitman spent most of the morning playing with playdoh but whenever anyone wanted to work with him (Campbell helped him match letters, Keaton read a story to him) he was ready. I think he loves to be read to more than any of the others. 
• Since this was our fourth day of school this week, no one had to spelling so that made our morning a bit shorter. I did have to do spelling with Graham since he was a bit behind yesterday and we postponed it until today. Reagan was the first one finished this morning and she went to town reading the Bible. Her Sunday school class is giving out prizes for reading their Bible and she is going to town.
• We had lunch and then everyone started on their chores. Whitman and Reagan both had to pack for their night out-he spent the night at Grannymom's house and Reagan headed out to a birthday party. 
• We had mostly finished picking up downstairs when Grannymom and Grandpa came over to pick up Whitman. He was ready to go and couldn't wait to leave us. The boy was pretty cute with his coat and backpack on and bear hanging out of the backpack. 
• After they left, we finished our chores and Anderson quickly finished his school. Then it was Valentine central with Campbell and Anderson finishing theirs (Keaton and Whitman will do theirs tomorrow hopefully). 
• Most of Reagan's afternoon was spent decorating the van since I was the chauffeur tonight for Alyssa Kate's party. After dropping her off at the party, Heather and I ran a few errands and then picked the girls and Candace up. We went to Kroger and had a scavenger hunt there-it was pretty fun. My team didn't win since we couldn't find Naan bread quickly enough but we were in second place.
• Robby and the others all had supper at home and then watched a movie until I came home. They went to bed-each room was missing someone so it was pretty quiet upstairs.   

January 26, 2017

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• Robby woke Keaton and Whitman up this morning and by the time that they came downstairs, Keaton was already dressed and they were headed to pick out Whitman’s school clothes.  
• Once they were dressed, we started eating our breakfast. Robby took the littles to school and the rest of us started on our schoolwork for the morning. It was a fairly quiet morning which seems to be pretty rare these days.
• When school was over, Robby picked Keaton and Whitman up. He said that Whitman was not too happy to see him since he had thought that it was Grannymom day. He walked in the door looking all pouty and pitiful, which seems to be the norm!
• I made lunch and then everyone had a blondie for dessert. Robby and I made some late, late the other night-they were good but really too sweet. Then Anderson set up his volcano to erupt. Everyone enjoyed watching it explode and most everyone played with vinegar and baking soda for a bit.
• We then startred on chores but I before I knew it, Whitman, Graham, Campbell and Keaton were playing happily upstairs. I had to make a choice to stop them and have them do chores or to let them keep playing happily upsairs.  I am sure that you guessed which one I picked.
• The afternoon went by pretty quickly-the kids playted outside most of the time. They did ask to go exploring in the woods and we agreed. This did not set well with Whitman because I wouldn’t let him go. He cried and cried. I tried to tell him that he could come in and help me cook or to watch a movie. He told me that he was going outside and going into the woods.  Bless, poor child. He really thought I was going to let him go on a stroll in the woods by himself-he was bitterly disappointed!
• We then had spaghetti for supper-it was a hit since we had sausage in it. Afterwards, I ran out the door with Keaton, Campbell and the basketball boys. I actually ran out the door so fast that I forgot my phone. I had a long list of things to do tonight during practice and none of it was I able to do. I even left my water in the car which made my even more sour.
• Back at the house, Reagan and Whitman had showers and waited on us to come home. Whitman ended up going to bed before we made it home so he missed his bedtime snack. Soon afterwards, it was bedtime for our people.

January 25, 2017

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• Wednesday morning and I did wake up a bit earlier than usual so that helped quite a bit. Whitman was in our room pretty early asking for his snack and milk but I could already tell by his breath that he had been in the cheerios. I went to help him and he was quick to say "sorry Mommy" when we walked into the kitchen. I was worried that it was the milk on the floor that hew as apologizing for but it was just a few cheerios so soon he was back on the couch with his brothers eating his breakfast.
• I had to wake the girls up this morning, as usual, but soon they were downstairs with their clothes on and were working on their hair. One thing that is not my strong point is doing hair-I hardly do my own and don't even know how to French braid. So when I look around at my 3 girls all wanting me to put their hair up, I can quickly become overwhelmed. I am just thankful that all they want is ponytails-they must know that is all I can do.
• I heated up my Wednesday morning bagel and we headed on to Bible study. My exit was closed so we had to drive a bit further to get there which panicked the kids. They were worried that I didn't know the way and that we would be late. Surprisingly, I did know the way and we were not late at all. 
• I just love watching the kids run off to their classes in Bible study each morning. Their teachers are so sweet and wonderful with them. When Bible study was over, we headed to a park to play for a bit. 
• The kids didn't seem to mind the chilly wind and it was fine in the sun. They ate and played but most everyone spent their time swinging and jumping out of the swings. The moms had little time to talk since we were so busy chasing and pushing kids on the swings.
• This afternoon, I told the kids that they were to wake me up after they watched two movies so I could get their snack. They were fairly quiet while I snoozed but as soon as the credits started rolling on their movie they were ready for their snack and quickly woke me up.
• I pulled out next month's school work, cleaned the pottys, made a Valentine box and hung some hearts up and by the time I had finished with all if this, it was time to start working on supper. Thankfully, we had some frozen Chinese food so I cooked that along with leftover rice (yep, still from Friday night.)
• I did have Whitman write his name for me today and that little guys did great. I had to tell him that the "t" was a cross, that "m" had two bumps and "n" was just one bump. 
• By the time that supper was over, it was time to load up for church tonight. The kids all went to their classes, Robby went to a meeting for the preteens and I went to my class-crafts with the preschoolers. After church tonight, the kids did grab 3 cupcakes which they graciously split with their siblings.  "Graciously" is word I use loosely since there was no one happy about having to share. We then rushed home for showers and snacks before bedtime. Whitman was so tired on the way home that he fell asleep and was put right into his bed-Wednesdays are long days! 

January 24, 2017

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• This was one of those rare days that everyone was awake-even Reagan. Days like today make it a bit more difficult to get Keaton and Whitman dressed and out the door. They just want to stay and hang out with the others.
• We still managed to get everyone out the door on time. Whitman ate a pop tart but he wasn't too happy with me since we are now out of Oreo poptarts and Keaton had two pancakes. She was excited about bringing keys to show and tell today but I did spend part of the day wondering exactly what those keys went to. I gave her that set because I thought they weren't used but I did have a nagging feeling that maybe they were in fact keys to something important and I had a bit of a fear that she wouldn't come home with them. No worries though, she did come home with them and I never found that magical safe.
• We did school here this morning and things went well-any day is better than a Monday. Anderson still took a long while but he did finish at a decent time today. We did our history and science and I was actually surprised that I even enjoyed science today.
• I made grilled cheese for lunch and then we all started on our chores. Reagan and I worked forever on their closet and when Anderson was finished with his school, he helped Graham and me rebuild a lego set. We only made it 1/3 of the way-it is hard finding one tiny necessary piece for every step. Hopefully, we can finish it within the next few days.
• The kids ended up outside this afternoon and stayed there until Robby, Keaton and Whitman made it home. They played outside with the neighbors until their mom called them in. While they were playing, Robby and I sat down and had our pizza supper.
• Once the kids came in the had their showers and then ate. Anderson worked on his volcano tonight, Reagan wrapped a present and Campbell worked on a pillow that she received at Christmas. After we finished all of our projects, it was time to watch an episode of The Wall before sending my people to bed for the night.

January 23, 2017

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• We had just laid down in bed last night when we heard someone walking down the hallway. I froze and tried to lay really still-just in case it was a bad guy. That way he may not see me and just get Robby. Not that I am expecting a bad guy since I knew it was one of the kids but just didn't know which one. It was only Reagan but she did have some bad news-Campbell was sick upstairs.
• She has a cold and was pretty snotty so I will just have to assume that she was only sick due to that. I grabbed her bedding and brought her downstairs. Robby had made her a pallet by her bed. She laid down and said she was fine and was soon fast asleep (and slept soundly all night long.)
• Later today, Reagan walked into the room and said that she didn't like when you were sick at night because all I did was ask "are you ok?" over and over again. I laughed and told her that is what I did last night with Campbell and Reagan replied "I know, she told me."
• This morning we let Campbell sleep for a while and I also let Whitman sleep since Nonna was coming to pick him up around 10. Keaton got ready for school and I worked on untangling her necklace while she found her breakfast. Then Robby and she were off to school and work.
• We started on school and things went fine. We were a bit distracted since Whitman was home.  Anderson worked with him on counting for a long time-I had muffin tins with numbers written on them for him to put cereal in. He was not going to use his breakfast cereal at all and had to have another bowl of cereal to play my game.
• Campbell and Graham were the first ones finished this afternoon closely followed by Reagan. Anderson finished must later in the day when I was on the treadmill. That was fine though since we had nothing to do and he took quite a few breaks during the morning and afternoon.
• We had our lunch and then started on chores. We are still putting up our Christmas gifts-maybe we can just drag it out until Christmas next year! (Kidding, I plan on putting everything up by the end of the month.)
• The kids ended up outside this afternoon playing with the neighbors. They rode their bikes some but were mostly playing capture the flag in the yard. As soon as Keaton and Whitman drove up with Robby, they hopped out of the car and started to play as well. We let them all stay out until the neighbors had to go home.
• This evening, I was hugging Whitman and he said to me "I know you love me, but you are squeezing me like play-doh." I was squeezing him like playdoh but he was clean and smelled good from his shower. The kids all had showers and then we had supper-would you believe that we are still eating on Saturday night's Mexican food.
• After we ate, we did have a slice of pie since today is National Pie Day. Anderson had received a volcano kit for Christmas and we started on it tonight. After pouring the plaster, I started telling the kids about the volcano that we would see in Hawaii. I pulled out the pictures of our trip which was in 2004. Whitman pointed to me and knew who I was so I pointed to Robby and asked who he was. Whitman quickly replied, "that another daddy." It wasn't another daddy, it was just our daddy with hair!
• Then we settled in the living room to watch Battle Bots before reading our Bible story and bedtime. Hope tonight all my little people will feel good and sleep soundly.

January 22, 2017

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• We are all about using up everything in our fridge and freezer this month so breakfast was a few cinnamon rolls, biscuits and bacon. We had a can of biscuits and one of cinnamon rolls and one alone wasn't enough to feed the crew. After breakfast the kids started getting ready and that went smoothly enough.
• There was a bit of a crisis when we couldn't find Graham's church jeans. I did eventually find them shoved under his hanging up clothes in his closet along with quite a few others clothes. I am sure those clothes were strategically placed there so they wouldn't have to be hung up. 
• We again made it to church in time to see the grands before their service started. Then the kids headed off to Sunday school. I had worship care so I missed big church this morning. 
• Robby had text after church asking if I could pick up Whitman and I wrote him back saying I wasn't sure since we had a room full of kids still. When I was finally done, I decided to walk by his room to just make sure that they had picked him up. I saw someone in the hall and talked as I walked by his room never thinking about him. Before I did leave the preschool area, I did decide to walk back to his room and check and sure enough, he was the last one there. Wonder when we would have remembered him?
• Lunch was at Grannymom's house and the kids all liked her brisket but dessert was the favorite by far. After lunch the kids played a few games and then we headed home. Robby and I hung out in the bonus room this afternoon while the kids were downstairs.
• They were playing with the nerf guns for a long while but eventually started watching movies. When they started coming upstairs asking for their second snack, we decided that we should make supper. We headed up more leftovers which are just about gone. After supper, some folks had showers and others watched another movie.
• Then we had our Sunday night ice cream truck followed by some American Ninja Warrior. The kids watched the show some but then ended up making their own ninja course with the huge jenga blocks. That did get everyone wild and crazy before bed but I do believe that most everyone is quiet up there right now.

January 21, 2017

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• Whitman was in our room before 7 this morning. He must have had to go to the bathroom because he tossed and turned until Robby finally took him. That did calm him down some and he laid quietly until he started asking for a movie.
• Thankfully by then Campbell was also in our bed and we were able to convince her to go with him to the living room and start a movie. They watched movies until I climbed out of bed to make breakfast.
• I made cinnamon toast but the kids spotted Robby's pound cake on the cabinet so that was put on the plates too. The kids ate and then they all migrated to their ipads and movies while Robby and I watched the prayer service in D.C.-well, I should probably say that he watched the t.v. and I went back to sleep.
• Before I knew it, it was time to get everyone ready for our ballgames. Robby fed everyone lunch and then out the door we went. Graham's game was first and his team did really well. Graham only scored 2 points but it is pretty impressive how much the boys have improved in the past few weeks.
• Then we had a break and the kids walked on the track upstairs some with Grannymom and we had a few snacks. When I watched Anderson's team and his opponents warm up, I was pretty afraid that Anderson's team was going to get beat by a lot. I was half correct-they did get beat. At one point, the score was 1 to 13 but they came back and only lost by 5. Anderson scored the most he has scored before-5 points and 3 of those were free throws.
• After the games, we came home and the kids had showers while Robby and I heated up our leftovers for supper. They mostly wanted quesadillas and Reagan was the only one who wanted a crispy taco. 
• We had a few minutes and then we headed to the Wilson's house to watch the basketball game. The hogs won but Shannon's cookies and muffins that she made was the real win. We ate them up-hopefully, she wasn't planning on having many leftovers. 
• We stayed out until after 10 so when we came home it was time to hurry off to bed. It was still raining a bit which was pretty nice as we went to bed.

January 20, 2017

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• I was the shower last night when Robby came to tell me that Keaton was sick upstairs. He headed up there and said that she had been sick but was very upset. By the time I was dried off, she was downstairs and I made her a pallet beside her bed. She calmed down some and was asleep before I was. I must not have moved at all last night trying to listen to her but she slept all night long. I guess that she just has a tender stomach.
• Before Robby left for work this morning, he turned on the tv and most everyone joined us to watch the inauguration day coverage. We grabbed breakfast and headed back to my room. I let the kids watch a bit but then told them that they needed to bring their school work and work while we watched history.
• We had already done a bit of school yesterday so we were a bit ahead. I did let the kids pass on doing science and history-we were already watching history happen. I don't remember watching 4 years ago and am not really sure why I didn't watch with the kids then. I guess Reagan was just in the 1st grade, Anderson in kindergarten, Graham in preK, Campbell a toddler, Keaton would have been 1 and I was pregnant with Whitman-I do understand why I didn't watch 4 years ago, I was just trying to survive!
• The kids had a zillion questions about everything that was happening and who was who. It was just all so interesting-all of the pomp and circumstance. I turned off the tv for lunch and didn't turn it back on again-we probably missed something.
• We had our lunch and then everyone stared on their chores. Chores took a long while since my 3 big kids spent some time in bed-they were fooling around and not working. I sent them to their room while Keaton, Campbell and I finished downstairs. Afterwards, I finally let them out to help with the rest of the house and their behavior was much better.
• The rest of the afternoon went by quickly. When I did come downstairs from the treadmill, the neighbors were over and everyone was playing inside. They played for a good while and then the neighbors went home just as Whitman had put on his shoes to go out and play. I told the kids that they could stay outside and play with him or come in and help me out. The boys chose to stay out and play with their brother. They were sweet watching out for their baby brother and took turns pushing him on the swing.
• The Wilson's came over for supper-Mexican. There were quesadillas, nachos, tacos, beans and rice. We also had apple pie, oreo pie and ice cream for dessert and the kids were able to play for a while. 
• When they headed home, my people headed to bed after a bit. We cleaned the kitchen and then watched some tv before bedtime! 

January 19, 2017

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• What a day this was! The first thing that happened this morning was getting Keaton and Whitman off to school. This was Keaton's snack day-apple juice, jello and cheese cubes. Whitman and Keaton put on their clothes and then helped themselves to breakfast-actually, Whitman's brothers helped him with his breakfast and then they all curled up on the couch with their ipads.
• When they left, the rest of us started on school. I had told the kids that we just needed to work for an hour and I feel like they accomplished quite a bit-we will see tomorrow though. Then it was time for chores.
• We had a bit of time to get everything neat here at the house and then it was off to start our day. Kennedy arrived at here just before we left and the next stop was the library. I ran in and then I ran into church to pick up Keaton and Whitman.
• Whitman wasn't ready to leave and Keaton was telling Ms. Stacy that we were going to see the swans but she kept saying "swines" and Ms. Stacy was greatly confused. We then picked up Grannymom.
• We met the Kamps, Heltz and Powells at the Heart hospital and loaded up. I had the big girls and big boys along with Keaton and Whitman on the way to Heber and it was a pretty quiet ride-it was a very quiet ride. 
• It was cloudy when we left but by the time we were half way there, it became super foggy-like so foggy that we had trouble seeing the road in front of us. We pressed on and were soon pulling right up to the swans.
• The trumpeter swans usually have been coming to Magness Lake near Heber Springs for a few years now. At some point, a storm probably blew them off course and they still come back each Thanksgiving through Valentine's Day. We had all read (or listened to) The Trumpet of the Swan book and it was about a trumpeter swan who couldn't talk so he was given a trumpet. It was a good story so today we were looking for that swan, Louis.
• The swans were all swimming in the little lake and the fog didn't bother us at all. There were so many swans and were right near the fence. Some people there gave the kids some corn to feed the swans. 
• The boys were able to use the restroom behind a tree but the girls needed a potty stop so the visitor's center was the next spot. I know that my boys were super excited that we were able to watch the film. It was old but still interesting. 
• Then we drove to the spot where JFK dedicated the dam. On the drive over the dam, it was so foggy that we couldn't tell which side was the dam and which side was the river. After that stop, it was to the fish hatchery we went-we missed it by 7 minutes. Who closes at 3? 
• Back to the visitor's center we went for a short trail walk. It would have been a beautiful trail if it wasn't for the foggy, damp, wetness that was surrounding us. We walked about half of it and then climbed in the cars to return home-we needed to make it home by 6:15 and barely did that.
• We had one more potty stop at the visitor's center and then it was straight home. The traffic was fine even though we fought the mist/rain the entire time. But when we made it to 630-yuck, that traffic was horrible. We made it to the Heart Hospital and dropped off Sara and her people, then dropped off Grannymom and drove to Immanuel.  
• Kennedy's dad was there and after dropping her off, Robby pulled up and took the boys into practice. So the girls, Whitman and I came home. They had showers and some breakfast for supper. 
• I had just gotten Whitman into bed when Robby and the boys arrived home, They had their showers and I fed them a quick supper. It was a pretty perfect field trip day!

January 18, 2017

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• Wednesday morning and Whitman was in our bed before 7. We snuggled with him until he went back to sleep so we could too-which was probably not a good idea since we had places to go.
• The boys were the first ones dressed followed closely by the girls. I put Whitman's clothes on him while he was still snoozing on our bed. It was so much easier that way-I may start having everyone go to bed with their clothes on.
• We were on time to Bible study but Reagan was not pleased because she was not the first one in her class this morning. Whitman was the first one in his class but he did not want to go in at all. I am not sure why but he was soon happily playing in his room.
• It was wet after Bible study so we headed to Rock Creek. The kids played and played there until they were worn out. Noah came home with us and as soon as everyone walked in the door, they went to the bonus room and played on their ipads. That is pretty much where they stayed all of the afternoon long. 
• Whitman was the only one not upstairs and he helped me with the laundry. When we had finished that, he told me that we could watch a movie and that we did. I sat down with him and he watched the movie and I closed my eyes.
• It didn't seem like the afternoon was that long and before I knew it I was pulling out leftovers for all of the kids. They helped me clean out the fridge and I think that everyone left full. After everyone ate, we loaded up and headed to church.
• It was stripe and dots night for Anderson, Graham and Campbell and pajama night for Keaton and Whitman. They all were pretty excited about this but they were most excited when they found out that we were stopping at Wendys on the way home for frostees. 
• They ate their snacks on the way home and then once at home it was shower time followed by my favorite part of the day on Wednesdays-bedtime!

January 17, 2017

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• Tara is out Bunko-ing tonight (actually, I don't think they've played Bunko in about 10 years but I do think they are eating out)
• Whitman jumped in bed with us before we were able to get out of bed this morning so another good reason to stay in bed a bit longer.
• School was calling so we all got ready, grabbed breakfast and then me, Whitman and Keaton were out the door and headed to preschool.  Soon they were picked up by Grannymom and Grandpa.  Keaton made a HUGE art project with Grannymom depicting each of the months and pictures to illustrate each.
• Homeschool day here for the rest of the folks - I think the highlight was the Mentos/Diet Coke experiment. Of course, they've done this experiment before but Tara said it was part of the lesson today so no one complained about doing it again today.)
• The kids are already busy getting their Valentine cards ready - today's major project was helping Campbell create her cards that involve her Crayola melting machine.
• A few movies, some lego building and downtime before I got home.  Then we started on supper - mashed potatoes are a favorite of most folks around here so no complaints there either.
• Showers for everyone and then we settled in to watch American Ninja followed an episode of The Wall (the current favorite).  We also managed to make sugar cookies with icing and sprinkles.  
• Whitman headed to bed first without any fussing (he's pretty worn on school days and spending the afternoon with the grandparents.)  Everyone is in bed now @ 9:30 but not sure any of the girls are asleep yet - still hear quite a bit of noise. I'm sure they are trying to staying awake until Tara gets home.

January 16, 2017

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• We were getting up this morning when Whitman joined us in bed so we certainly stayed a bit longer. All of my people used to climb in bed with us in the mornings-not so much anymore. So when Whitman or anyone joins us these days, we savor it.
• We had breakfast this morning and then started on school. Campbell had finished her school for today on Friday so she had little to do. It probably did help since she played with Keaton and Whitman entertaining them both. Graham did do a little school work with Whitman and Keaton worked on some of her sight words. They do tickle me because while we work together, Keaton and Whitman were right there. Whitman will sit crazy still if you are reading-even while we were reading a chapter about Hosea in our history book.
• I then had everyone pick up downstairs while I worked on lunch. When we had finished lunch, it was time for chores and that did take a while. Keaton and mainly Reagan did a load of laundry by themselves-well, I talked them through it and it is still in the dryer but they can finish it tomorrow. Reagan did say "wait, is this going to be my chore from now on?" Smart girl.
• Anderson was still working on his school work around 3 this afternoon. Bless him. He doesn't struggle with school really-now his spelling is pretty rough and he isn't the speediest reader though he is a math whiz and understands and remembers most everything. He just isn't in any hurry to finish and takes his sweet time. It doesn't bother him that he is the last one so I guess that it shouldn't bother me either.
• The girls and Graham made a store this afternoon. They found their own things that they wanted to sell and then charged their brothers and sisters. I was on the treadmill during this but was pretty surprised to learn that Campbell bought an empty Starburst box for 50 cents. Surprised that her sister would sell it to her, surprised that her brother wouldn't speak up, surprised that she was silly enough to buy it. I clearly explained that there would be no more stores in this house.
• Soon Robby was home and we were working on supper. We had spaghetti and thankfully, it is one of the rare meals that everyone seems to eat every part of (no one has to pick out corn or tomotoes or any of the other silly things they pick out.)
• After supper, we watched a movie this evening. It was a pretty cute little movie and even Whitman watched most of it. Robby passed out popcorn and this made Reagan incredibly happy (she wants to be eating all of the time) When the movie was over, we sent everyone to bed. I have not been upstairs once because Anderson was rattling the tags from his pillow while telling his brother that he was eating candy. Gracious me!

January 15, 2017

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• Robby made cinnamon rolls this morning and that helped the kids hurry with their clothes. More accurately, I should say that helped the girls hurry with their clothes. The boys are pretty good about getting themselves dressed on Sundays before they come downstairs. The girls, not so much. 
• The kids now clean up 2 cans of cinnamon rolls-we did manage to save us one to split. I left Robby half and then I cleaned up Keaton and Whitman's leftover bites. Once we were all ready we headed to the church house.
• Robby helped with the sound for the kids so he headed up there to learn a few things. The rest of us went to see Grannymom and Grandpa. We were still talking but Whitman decided that he was done so he just walked on out the doors. It was still a bit early but their teachers were there and I was able to get to my class early (never happens.)
• Lunch was at Nonna's house today and she had Mexican. My favorite was her corn dip-I could have eaten the entire bowl of it by myself. After lunch, we walked back over to Beebee's house to pick up my water bottle that I left there the other day. I have been thirsty since I left it even though I have been still drinking water from another container.
• We weren't at Nonna's for too long because soon it was time for me to take Anderson to Owen's birthday party. They played Splatball and had a blast. Imagine 10 ten year old boys running around an empty warehouse shooting at each other-it was the stuff that 10 year old boys dream about. They had a few courses outside that the boys played as well but it was chilly outside and a bit warmer in the room that we were in so we didn't follow them around outside.
• Graham stayed at Nonna's house this afternoon and had a big time. The others came home with Robby and spent the afternoon resting and watching movies. Graham arrived home just minutes after Anderson and I did. Then about 10 minutes later, Shannon came over with a few goodies to share. 
• After watching the Cowboys, we heated up supper and then the kids ate cupcakes. Anderson had to have a shower from his splatball and of course when we don't need for people to take a shower, they all want to.
• Whitman's shower didn't last long since he was throwing water so we took him out. Then as I was getting dressed he was mouthing back at me (I don't even know what he was saying) but I told him to say "yes ma'am" and he just stared at me. I spanked him and he said "that didn't even hurt me." So I jerked his towel off of him and spanked him again. After all of this, it was time for him to go to bed.
• The others watched a show about catching catfish with their bare hands. It was a kind of crazy show but afterwards it was definitely bedtime.

January 14, 2017

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• Reagan was the only one this Saturday morning who decided that she didn't want to wait for Robby's big breakfast. This morning we had biscuits, eggs and sausage patties (it was sausage links last week.) It was a pretty good breakfast and I enjoyed mine much more this week since I pulled out the honey and slathered my biscuit with it. 
• Of course, after cooking a big breakfast is just a big mess in the kitchen. We knocked it out pretty quickly and then Robby and I headed to the bonus room for a bit. The kids were watching a show about animals gone wild and they didn't miss us at all. I picked out pictures from December to put in the kids picture albums and ate a bit of my Christmas candies.
• Before too long it was time for us to start getting ready for the games. I loaded up the basketball players and headed to the game. Robby and the others arrived just at tip-off (though I don't think that they do have tip-off.)
• Graham's team did really well today. They were missing their star player but everyone stepped up and the score was tied. Graham did great and scored once. He was often the ball handler and he had a lot of fun and really that was is all that matters. 
• We had a short break between games-Grannymom and I walked a few laps on the track above the courts, the kids ran and played and Robby ran to pick up a bit of lunch for the kids. Then it was Anderson's team's turn. Last week they played pretty poorly and were the ones who were stomped but not this week. They were on fire. Anderson scored 3 points but he grabbed many rebounds. He also had lots of fun.
• Robby went to pick up a pizza for supper and Campbell and I headed to the grocery store. I had about 8 things on my list but ended up leaving with a buggy full and spent nearly a hundred dollars-I blame Campbell. Actually the only things she convinced me to buy was some sparkling grape juice. Unfortunately, she has taken to calling it wine and I was a little confused when Anderson asked my when we were going to drink the wine. (We are saving the wine for the Super Bowl in case you wondered.)
• Back at home, everyone ate and then had showers before cleaning the school room a bit. Things in there had become very cluttered so we did some decluttering. We threw away a bag of trash and then made another pile of things that Robby snuck out of the house tonight. He raised Campbell's desk so it is as high as the others and things look pretty good in there. Now we just need to do some decluttering on every other room in this house.
• When we finished, we put away a load of laundry and then watched the final of our baking show. Next, Whitman went to bed while the rest of us put away one more load of laundry (there is another drying but it will wait until tomorrow.) 
• Finally, it was bedtime for my crew. When the boys went into their room, Whitman was still awake. He was not happy to see his brothers come in the room which was surprising. I guess he like to go to sleep with it quiet and it is nothing but when Anderson and Graham are in there. It does sound like most of my Dennie kids are sleeping upstairs right now!

January 13, 2017

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• We were up a bit later this morning but that was fine since we didn't have to get Keaton and Whitman off to school. Robby left for work and I pulled out the muffins that I had made last night. 
• I also pulled out some banana and apple muffins from the freezer and we all started on breakfast. At one point, Whitman looked at me and said that it was snowing. I glanced outside but quickly realized that he was talking about the muffin crumbs that he was dropping on the ground. It was like snow and a great mess to begin our Friday morning.
• School went pretty good this morning. Keaton and Whitman spent quite a bit of time playing some candy. I am not sure why but when they had finished their games, they brought it to me to open and pass out to everyone. 
• The kids have started moving the little heater into the school room during school. This draws Graham back to his old spot and the room is full-especially with Keaton and Whitman there. Today was relatively calm but the house does quickly look like it is destroyed.
• We had lunch and then it was time to pick up our destroyed house. It didn't take too long and before I had finished my list, Robby was home. He was only here for a few minutes when I headed out the door.
• I had some dishes at Beebee's house to pick up so I went and did that. I didn't get home until after 4 and when I made it home, the big 5 were playing at the neighbors house, Whitman was watching tv and chili was in the crock pot.
• We let the kids play until it was very dark outside. When they came in, they had their showers and then we ate our chili. I do believe that chili is one of my favorite meals and the kids ate it up as well.
• Whitman and I had made cookies while the kids were playing so during our tv time we ate cookies. We ended up watching 3 episodes of The Wall. It is a pretty dramatic show and we all did quite a bit of screaming during the show-probably not the best night time tv watching. 

January 12, 2017

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• Whitman was all about picking out his clothes this morning. He is always ready to go to school and today was no different. Once I had him dressed, I went upstairs to find Keaton. Those girls are hard to find in the mornings-sometimes they are in the floor, sometimes they are in each other's beds and sometimes they are were they should be. I picked correctly and did find Keaton on the first try. 
• They grabbed their breakfast and soon they were headed out the door. Robby dropped them off while I zoomed through school. I am getting quicker at doing the kids work together-I just do spelling with Reagan now so that helps. Anderson greatly struggles with spelling so that takes longer than it should. Since I have already worked through Graham's English book three times, I am able to fly through it with him. And Campbell is improving on her reading so that is taking less time each day as well.
• Graham and Campbell went with me to the library to grab a few books. Then we picked up Whitman and Keaton from school. She had taken a bear to school and told me all about them "hibernating" and Whitman had made a snowflake that he was so proud of.
• Once at home, Robby had lunch made and we all ate. After we finished eating, we worked on chores and then Anderson finished up his work. It didn't take him too long and soon he was watching a movie with everyone else.
• The neighbors came out and my crew flew out the door. Robby left to go and buy icees so I helped move bikes so he could back out.  When I did, I looked over and saw the crew trying to fly a kite in the back yard-um, we have a few trees back there but I guess it was windy enough to do it. I don't think they had much success though.
• They played outside a bit and then were back in for the afternoon. By the time that our lasagna was cooked, it was time for the boys to head to basketball practice. They always have such a good time at practice.
• Back at home, everyone here had showers and then we made a few muffins-6 dozen actually. Whenever I feel like my freezers are becoming empty, I have this urge to fill them back up. I had just finished cleaning up the kitchen when the boys came home. They had showers and their muffins and then it was bedtime for all of the crew. 

January 11, 2017

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• I set 2 alarms for Wednesday morning on my phone but apparently I have learned to turn both of them off while still sleeping. So that did start my morning in quite a rush. I probably should put a sign in the living room on Wednesdays to tell the boys to wake me.
• 7 of us still managed to all get ready, eat breakfast and be out the door in 45 minutes and I think that is pretty good. We did leave a bit later than usual but still made it on time. Whitman loves his class and just jumps in every single time. Keaton was so excited about her class today because the teachers brought in different boys to show how Jesus grew up. One of those was Anderson and Keaton was so happy to see him. Campbell's class walked to see the stained glass. Graham's teachers told me that he told them all about Isaiah and how it mirrors the Bible as a whole. And Reagan is just counting down the days until she can be the one bringing snack to Bible study.
• We drove up to Rock Creek after Bible study and the tubes were closed so the Heltz' ended up at our house to eat lunch and play for a bit. The kids played for a bit and then they headed home. We picked up and within minutes the lights flickered and then went off.
• It had been so crazy windy here-I had been outside and the wind was so loud it sounded like a train coming. I was cleaning the cabinets when the lights went out so I just kept doing that and then Keaton and I put together a castle that she received for Christmas. It took until the lights came back on to finish it and by the time we were finished, I just had time to clean the potties before making supper for the crew.
• We ate and then it was time to head to church. Tonight Whitman's class did games with me and he was so excited. Graham and Anderson both went shopping tonight-Graham bought a cow (wish it was a real one) and Anderson spent his money on candy and possibly something else (I'm not really sure.)
• The kids all had showers and a snack before heading to bed tonight. I am not sure if they are as tired as I am but gracious, Wednesdays are wonderful but long days.

January 10, 2017

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• We were a bit quicker to wake up and scurry around this morning because this was registration day for Whitman to get in Ms. Stacy's class next year. There are only 12 spots in her class and he had to get one-having 5 Dennie kids at home during the day for school will be a big enough change and adding Whitman to the mix would just be overwhelming.
• Thankfully, the Robby, Keaton and Whitman all made it on time and there was still plenty of room in Stacy's class. Robby had his hands full when walking into school today-Whitman's snack, his registration forms, an egg for Keaton's show and tell and all of their coats. 
• At home, we were working on school. The kids knew that we had to leave around noon so they did try to get their work accomplished with a little bit less fooling around. At one point, Reagan, Graham and Campbell were all working in my bedroom while I was working with Anderson in there too. I am not sure how well they could concentrate but at least they were quiet. If I was doing school right now at home, I would take my work up to my bed, cover up and go to work but my people never have done that.
• Jennifer wrote around 11 saying that Whitman had fallen. He hit his head and she sent me a picture of him with an ice bag on it. She also said that Keaton was hugging him-I can just see her taking care of her little brother. One of her little friends doesn't play with her on days that Whitman is at school because he wants to play with them. This bothers her and I try to tell her that she can play with her friend and Whitman can play with his friends but she still wants to play with her brother. (We never could even see where he hit his head so I guess he was just fine.)
• By noon, we had already finished school and were quickly doing a few chores before heading to Grannymom's house. I had a doctor's appointment at 1 so I dropped the kids off and was back by 2. The kids weren't that happy about me coming back since they were in the middle of eating ice cream.
• We stayed for a bit longer and then we headed home. The kids played outside for a bit but quickly came inside. They watched some movies and then around 4, they all headed outside until almost 6. When everyone came in, they started their showers and we passed out leftovers from the fridge. Everyone seemed happy with what they had-I was really pleased with my leftover Chinese. And yes, I did quietly stand in the kitchen and eat my Chinese leftovers before offering what was left to the kids because I didn't want to share.
• Tonight the kids watched a game show before we did our devotional and put everyone in bed. The girls were going to get to color for a bit before bed but the boys didn't even ask to read. I think they must have been a bit sleepy.

January 9, 2017

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• Monday mornings are just so hard to get up and get going. We managed though but not with the greatest of attitudes. Whitman was the first one in our room and we were able to snuggle him for a bit before it really was time for us to get moving.
• He was not happy that I could not find any of his undies this morning. I could find plenty but not any of his boxer briefs that he loves.  Finally, we thought of the one pair that was in the dryer so he put those on and the crisis was averted. Though I remember him holding all of his underwear the other day when he was getting dressed but who knows where he put it.
• Robby took Keaton to school and Whitman headed to Nonna's house. She had a big day learning about the letter E and Whitman enjoyed taking his magna doodle to Nonna's house. He is all about writing words on it lately-probably if we would really work on it, he could be reading before kindergarten.
• Back at home, we worked on school. Mondays are always more difficult because people quickly get out of the school routine. The kids did enjoy me putting a heater in the school room but that didn't really help them get anything accomplished more quickly. Maybe tomorrow will be a bit better.
• We did our science and history and then had lunch. I did make everyone finish their chores before they could go back and finish their school work. Any school work that is left for the afternoon usually takes about half the time to do as it would have in the morning time. 
• I climbed on the treadmill and it took me 2 whole hours to walk for 45 minutes. Nonna brought home Keaton and Whitman. Then I had at least 20 interruptions. At one time I wondered if I was even doing myself any good-walking for 2 minutes and then having to get off to settle a dispute or get a snack over and over again.
• When Robby made it home, I already had supper in the oven. Then I helped pass out supper and quickly headed out the door to meet my Bible study group at Tazikis. We ate and had a grand ole time. 
• Meanwhile, back at the house the kids watched a movie before going to bed. Robby said that they were pretty mellow tonight which was nice. When I did come home, I went upstairs to tell everyone good night.  The kids were all anxious to tell me all about the movie that they watched-they had had a pretty good night.