Adventures in Dennieland...: 05/01/2017

May 31, 2017

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Our morning was pretty much normal around here. Campbell was the last one to wake up this morning and at 9:15, I thought that I had better wake her up soon. I didn't have to do that because she was soon awake.
By the time that she did wake up, everyone else were pretty much finished with their tasks for the morning. Campbell pretty much had to finish her chores/school after we made it home.
At 11, we loaded up and headed to Nonna's house. Reagan had her first orthodontist appointment at noon. It was just a consultation so we still may choose another guy but I was pleased with this one. And yes, Robby will now be working two jobs to pay for braces for all of these people!
When we left Nonna's house, we went to the library. My Reagan didn't want to get a book because she is in the middle of reading through the Bible. I made her and tonight as I tucked her in, she was trying to read one more page before I turned off the lights.
Back at home this afternoon, the neighbors never came outside this afternoon so the kids also stayed in. Graham does bounce in and out most of the day. He rides his bike down the road, dribbles the ball and shoots some hoops and then comes back in over and over again.
I had potatoes and bbq ready when Robby came in tonight. We ate and then moved outside to eat warm chocolate chip muffins for our dessert. After Robby and I cleaned the kitchen, we all headed outside to do some work.
Robby and Graham burned while the others helped me rake the playground area. Whitman had only been outside just a bit when he managed to cover himself in dirt. All he wanted to do was take a shower but I held him off since we had just come outside. He has learned though that if you cover the mud with sand it will go away and that is what he spent the next 30 minutes putting sand all over himself.
When we had finished working, the kids had popsicles and I played a round of volleyball with them. We hung up a garden hose as our net-yep, we are classy like that! Campbell even caught a few lightening bugs before we headed in for showers and bed.
As Campbell was inspecting her lightening bugs, she showed me two who were stuck together. She said that she tried to pull them apart but couldn't. I told her to just leave them alone. She went on to hypothesize that maybe they were twins but I threw out that maybe they were married! Life lessons from lightening bugs!

May 30, 2017

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Graham came in our room first this morning asking if he could play the xbox. Then Anderson came in asking if he could eat breakfast. Both boys already have their summer routine-Graham on the xbox for a bit and then he sits on the couch and plays his ipad while Anderson sits by the window and plays his ipad while listening to his headphones.
A bit later, I walked through the living room and Whitman ran up to me asking if he could eat his breakfast while Graham read him a story. Hmm, I thought for a minute and then said sure. Anderson was already starting on his daily school/chores and today he had to read to Whitman.
Keaton was up soon and she was in a good mood (she isn't always in the morning) and she jumped at the chance for me to work with her on her reading book. Whitman and I had been on the couch (me reading him one more book) so she cuddled in beside us. She did her reading book and read her story for the day. She was so proud of it that she later read to Robby. We still have a long ways to go (today's story was "see me eat") but we are getting there.
Soon afterwards, Anderson took my spot and read a story to Keaton. Both boys started working on their chores/school while Campbell and Reagan snoozed upstairs. Those girls eventually strolled down the stairs, but I was beginning to think that they were going to sleep all morning long.
By noon, the boys hair had been cut, the house was clean, chores were finished, school work had been done and I was tired! We had our lunch and while the kids did a few last chores, I jumped on the treadmill.
We made it to the pool at about 2 and the kids were delighted to see the Kamps there and the Heltz pulling into the parking lot. Everyone played hard and Whitman probably went down the slide about a hundred times. We had about 30 more minutes of swim time before the pool closed but thunder was heard.
So we headed home just a bit earlier than planned and I had to fight some pretty heavy rain on the way home. Once there, the kids helped unload and then showers for all.
Robby heated up some supper-hot dogs and hamburgers from the other night and I heated up the other half-corn and baked beans. Then we all ate at the table. Afterwards, we watched about 9 episodes of the Bates and enjoyed some cookies before bedtime!

May 29, 2017

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Cash and the boys woke up sometime after 7 this morning which was fine with me since at least they did sleep until 7. Keaton and Campbell were up soon after and they were waiting anxiously to play with the boys. I even heard that Keaton was just sitting outside their door waiting on them to come out.
I asked Whitman and Campbell to help with breakfast and they jumped at the chance, but I had to make Keaton help me with breakfast. She was not happy with me at all but she did enjoy helping butter, sugar and cinnamon the croissants. And to make things worse for her, while the croissants were baking, I made her work on her reading book with me.
Everyone seemed to enjoy our breakfast, except for Reagan who wasn't awake until much later in the morning. The boys and the girls played the xbox, played their ipads and mostly played outside until Robby called for them to put on their bathing suits.
Once those words were said, the house was cleaned and suits were thrown on. Kids were climbing into the van as fast as they could. We made it to the pool around 11:30 this morning and it was pretty crowded. It will be for the next few weeks but then people will forget about it and things will calm down.
After being sprayed down, everyone took off to the water. Whitman did well today and seemed to follow the rules. At 12:30, they had their annual Memorial Day picnic and we all had hot dogs, chips, dips, desserts and drinks. Reagan and Graham eventually tired to swimming-or maybe they were cold.
So around 2:30 we left the pool and headed home. The kids helped us unload and then changed their clothes. After all of that swimming they did, Robby and I needed a rest. We snoozed for a bit and soon we were loading up again.
This time we headed to the Wilsons to celebrate Tony's birthday. We snacked around, the kids played soccer and kickball, Campbell helped Layne clean her closet, Tony cut some wood for me and then we ate some ice cream and sang/shouted Happy (belated) Birthday to Tony.
We came home in time for showers and then bed for the kiddos. Keaton was complaining of a tummy ache as she laid down. She told us all about the movie they watched tonight with someone who was sick so that was vividly in her head tonight! Hopefully, it all stays in her head and doesn't get on her bed!

May 28, 2017

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We briefly heard the storms last night but continued to snooze right through them. This morning the boys were the first ones awake and were soon dressed. Whitman even knew the drill this morning and asked to put on his clothes before getting his breakfast.
Soon we were all on our way to church for the morning. This was Feed the Need Sunday so there was only one service. I let Whitman stay in with us and he did fine. Reagan was a little chatty with him but we survived.
After church we headed to Walmart to buy food for Feed the Need. I explained that we were buying food for hungry boys and girls and Whitman said, "I'm hungry." I assured him that there would be plenty of food at Grannymom's house in a bit.
Since church was shorter, we did make it to Grannymom's house before Dana and her crew, so we had time to play a game before lunch. We had lasagna and the fixings for lunch and as soon as we had finished the kids jetted outside to play.
We ended up taking Cash home and the kids played mostly outside all afternoon long (I did nap some so I am not quite sure where all they did play.) My boys ended up being so muddy that they had to come in and change their clothes-I believe that they were riding their bikes through the dirt pile which is now mud puddle.
This evening Robby, Whitman and I ran down to feed the Wilson cat and pick up pizza. My kids acted like they had never eaten pizza from a gas station before! While we were gone, I had left my phone and given instructions that it was not to play with and was for emergencies only like fire and 911. Robby had burned a stump yesterday and before we had left, we had stirred it up while looking at it. It wasn't hot at all but somehow when we were gone, according to the kids, it made it a pop and ash spewed into the air. It was enough that Campbell and Keaton reminded Reagan that they were to call if there was a fire but Reagan talked them out of it.
When we made it home, we all ate and then the kids started on showers. Then we had a bit of ice cream for our Sunday night ice cream truck. Afterwards, we watched a few Bates, we sent the kids to bed. The boys are still going strong up there-I have been up there once but we will let them talk for a bit longer!

May 27, 2017

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Robby and I were the only ones in the house this morning and we slept wonderfully until 9. We had joked that we would probably wake up at 6 this morning but thankfully we did sleep longer than that.
Robby and I picked up a bit around here and then ran to Shannon's house to feed their cat. We were home for a bit longer and worked a bit in the garage. Soon Keaton and Campbell arrived with Grannymom and Grandpa.
The girls had been to the store and were anxious to use their new goggles that they had bought. Robby and Grandpa cut down the limb that held out driveway swing. That was pretty entertaining to watch. At one point, Keaton or Campbell said, "I can't watch!" and I certainly agreed.
We worked a bit in the yard and then I had to jump in the car to go and pick up Reagan and her friends. She had spent the night at Kennedy's for her birthday and I brought the girls back across the river. They stayed up until 3 but didn't seem too tired because they talked and talked the entire way back.
Nonna, Pops, Jason and the boys were soon at our house. I ran in to heat up some corn before Robby threw it on the grill. Then we had hamburgers, chips, corn and beans for lunch. Everyone sat around outside in lawnchairs under the tree. Then we passed out ice cream sandwiches for dessert and things were just pretty perfect.
Robby soon drug out the huge water slide. We have had it for a few years and the last time we put it up, we were just sure that it wouldn't work because of the huge holes. And late time we had it out, the kids would just deflate it as soon as they climbed out. We were actually going to just throw it away but Robby told the kids that we could try it one more time.
Thankfully, he thought about using his leaf blower as another air supply. Once he cranked that thing up, that thing was so sturdy that we had 4-5 kids on top of it at a time. The neighbors came down to play and the kids played and played and played-until finally the gas ran out on the blower! They had a blast.
My Whitman even asked for his "red thing" (life jacket) before getting in the water. I thanked him profusely for remembering but then told him that he didn't need it today. He had a blast and was the last one out of the water. There was water guns, sliding, even another kiddie pool and popsicles to celebrate.
Around 6, the kids came in and started on showers and when Robby jumped off his mower, we loaded up and headed back to Maumelle. This time to go and but snow cones. Yes, I am sure that there were snow cones closer to the house but these were served with ice cream inside of the snow cone. They were pretty great and worth the two plus hours that we were out on the snow cone adventure.
Once we made it home, Whitman had his shower (he slept through the first round) and everyone else headed to bed. Robby told them that they could leave their lights on for a bit but they had already all turned their lights out before he made it up to tuck them in. They were some pretty tired kiddos.

May 26, 2017

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We went to bed feeling like it was Friday morning so we woke up acting like it was Saturday morning. The girls slept much later than the boys. I even let the boys play on the xbox pretty early this morning.
The kids had breakfast and then we started a bit on our school/chores. At one point, I walked into the school room and Reagan, Anderson and Graham were all looking at their All About Me books that they filled out when they were 3 and 4. It is my mission this summer to completely finish these books this year. Whitman is just starting on his and the others still need a few odd things on theirs like a meat man's signature.
They thought their books were hysterical. Graham laughed and laughed about his favorite food being banana pie. He couldn't understand why he had said that. I reminded him that he was 4 just like Whitman. Soon I had Whitman near me and we started filling out his book with everyone looking on. And today Whitman told us that his favorite food was "Peanut Butter Chicken Rice." Um, okay.
When I did all I could with Whitman (he got bored), I deemed it chore time and the kids did go to work. They flew through their chores and were soon bouncing in and out. I always know when the neighbors have to go in because all of my kids will come trickling home.
The kids came in around 12:30 one by one. I didn't know they were all coming in so I told the first one in that they could make their own lunch. Graham did walk by later with 3 pieces of bread. We turned him around and told him to get something else as well so he did walk back by with meat and cheese on top but the lunches just went downhill from there. I believe that Reagan had only crackers for her lunch.
The afternoon flew by-well, probably not for Whitman. He put on his backpack and waited on Pops around 2. Whitman got upset with me when I wouldn't let him take his backpack down the road to show the neighbors what was in it. Ha!
Around 4, I jumped in the car to take Reagan to Alyssa Kate's house to take her to Kennedy's house to celebrate Kennedy's birthday. Then Whitman and I ran to Target to do a bit of shirt shopping. We could have been done a bit earlier but Whitman took a shirt down from a rack and told me to try it on. I brought it to the dressing room with me but didn't plan on trying it on. As I was putting my shirt back on, he grabbed that shirt and asked me to try it on. I did and surprisingly it was decent though I didn't buy it.
We hurried home and Nonna, Pops and Jason came over to pick up the boys. They could not wait to get over to their house because Nonna had found a new box of legos in their attic. Jason took a few pictures and there were legos spread out everywhere over the floor.
Robby did a bit of mowing before jumping in the shower before we left. We called Keaton and Campbell in from down the road. I decided to throw in their pjs because I knew after a day outside they were going to need a shower. Then we headed to Grannymom's house.
We were almost off of Lawson when Robby remembered to look for our tickets. He didn't have them so we turned around to find them. I never even thought about them so at least he remembered. Our little turn around didn't take too long and soon the girls were dropped off and we were headed to the Traveler's game.
The game was fine and there was even food and dessert-delicious brownies and fried oreos which I had never had. This two things made me very, very happy. The Traveler's won and then we headed home to a very, very quiet house!

May 25, 2017

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I knew that I had to wake up on time this morning and we were able to do that-even after staying up until after 1 last night. Seriously, what in the world is wrong with us staying up so late like that. We weren't even eating ice cream-the whole time!
Keaton remembered that school had asked her to wear her school shirt. I believe it was because they were going on a field trip. She looked cute in it and I thought that it was fitting, so I put Whitman in his shirt as well.
Nonna, Grannymom and Grandpa were all at the celebration. We missed last years because Keaton was sick though we did make her a certificate and had a program in the kitchen for her. The kids sang and then the teachers handed out certificates.
Afterwards, there were lots of pictures to be made and breakfast to be eaten. They had a nice spread-doughnut holes, fruit and muffins. Keaton and Whitman also picked up their pottery from last weeks pottery session with Ms. Angela. It was a pretty perfect morning for them and they both felt pretty special.
Then we met Ms. Stacy and the rest of the class at Mills Park. Surprisingly, we were the first ones there and I sat in the car thinking, surely this is the right place. I probably shouldn't have questioned myself since this is the fifth time that we have done the certificates and then Mills Park with Ms. Stacy. Soon everyone showed up and my crew took off playing.
The kids played for a long while and then they celebrated all of their summer birthdays. I had already told all of my kiddos who were not in Ms. Stacy's class that I didn't know if there would be food for them but I had snacks in the car. Another mom overheard me and assured me that she had plenty for all the kids and grownups and that she did. She had cupcakes, rice krispy treats, brownies, cookies and fruit. My kids went to town.
After all of that eating, Keaton said bye to Ms. Stacy and then we went on the little trail walk behind the park. I guess that it was about a mile long. At first Whitman was scared of being in the woods. I think that is fine since I certainly don't want him to wander off here. He eventually got over that but still wanted me to hold him because he was getting tired-I didn't! Reagan did give him a brief piggy back ride but other than that, he walked. We have to get his little legs in shape for the summer.
After the trail, we stopped by the library, gas station and then Nonna's house. I had just went to Nonna's house to pick up a shelf but ended up staying for lunch which was a good thing because I didn't have any bread at our house.
We headed home and after unloading the car, I had time to fold the laundry and then it was time to leave again. This time just with Reagan for her dentist appointment. I had to move her summer appointment because of her mission trip. She does a have a little cavity so we will return to the dentist in a few weeks for that.
We then ran to Walmart for pick up a few things and then back home. The others were playing with the neighbors so Robby and I talked about the grocery list. Then I headed back to town for the grocery store. I ended up at the store by myself which was nice-I still filled up my cart even without any helpers.
When I came back home, Robby had the kids picking up sticks. They worked for a while and then had popsicles. The big 3 also each had a driving lesson with the old lawnmower with the trailer attached. It was interesting but no Dennies were harmed!
It was around 9 again when we did eat supper and then the kids watched a Bates until after 10. We shooed them into bed as quick as we could since it was ice cream time for us!

May 24, 2017

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Whitman climbed into our bed this morning and I asked him who was already awake. He told me that 2 brothers and no sisters were awake. A bit later, Robby walked through to tell us that he was leaving. He said that Graham was awake but Anderson was not. I looked at Whitman with a puzzled look, and he said, "I saw two heads."
Well, the second head didn't come downstairs for a bit. The boys were all awake for a good deal before the girls. I guess that there room being darker does help them sleep a little longer. I don't think I would need a dark room to sleep longer, I think I would just need a door with a lock on it.
This was our first time to be on our summer schedule and things went well. I probably should make a rule that all chores/school should be done by a particular time in the morning. But I don't want for that time to be too early in the morning where I am asked questions.
The main goal this summer is for Keaton to zoom through her reading book. We worked on it today but we are just on lesson 9 out of 100! When she finished this book, it was already be time for Whitman to begin.
By 10ish, everyone had finished all of their chores and summer school work. I worked on getting Anderson's school ready for the fall and re-paintings my table and chairs on the back patio. The boys had been painting letters for their room but eventually Campbell and Keaton took over on the painting.
It was nearly 1 when lunch was finally served. After spending all day yesterday outside, the kids didn't stay too long outside today. They would go out and then wander back in. This happened pretty much all afternoon until almost 5ish. That is when the kids all headed out and stayed out for a good while.
Robby bought a new toy this evening-a lawn mower-so he spent some time mowing this evening. Grannymom and Grandpa came over to see it. We made supper while the kids showered, and then we all sat down for quesadillas, rice and beans.
Earlier in the day, Campbell and Keaton had made brownies so they were delighted to pass out dessert for us. Then we watched one episode of the Bates before calling it a night.

May 23, 2017

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Robby's alarm buzzed before mine this morning. He made it upstairs to wake up Keaton and he even dressed Whitman. Whitman was wanting milk early, early this morning and it had been pretty comical listening to him beg Graham for milk. Whitman would tell Graham that I had said he could have some. Graham would question him and Whitman would shoot back, "you're mean." This went on and on for some time but the boy still didn't get any milk from his brother. He did finally get some with his breakfast later in the morning.
Robby took Keaton and Whitman to school. This was pretty much their last day since Thursday is just certificate day. They came home with their school boxes and a bag full of papers. Whitman received his report card today and the only thing he can't do well is put on and take off his coat. I will happily take that! Keaton came home with hers last week and she had Cs (complete) on everything except recite nursery rhymes. Who needs that skill anyway? (Graham couldn't do that either in preschool and still struggles to memorize poems/verses today.) Actually, next fall I have already planned on her brothers and sisters helping her memorize poems as part of her kindergarten.
Whitman and Keaton were picked up by Grannymom and the had a celebratory last week of school lunch at Burns Park. Whitman came home telling me about it and said that it was the best park ever. Keaton was just as excited and made sure that Robby told me exactly where they had gone.
This was officially our last day of school but when the neighbors came out early, I made a deal with the kids that if they agreed to work some tomorrow then they could head on outside. I am not even sure what the answer to their question was but they were pretty much outside from 10 this morning (possibly earlier) until 9 tonight.
Around lunch they did come in to eat and managed to finish off their chores. They also were in for about an hour this afternoon which gave them time to eat a snack and watch some tv. They played lots of freeze tag, four square, water balloons and even a game of kickball.
When Keaton and Whitman came home, they joined everyone outside. Whitman watched a few movies but did eventually come out. Then he went in for a few more movies. I was at Bunko and Robby was working hard on organizing one of his sheds.
Robby let time slip away from him and it was nearly 9 when he threw the hot dogs and corn on the grill. The kids showered and then they ate their late night supper. Robby finished cleaning up a few things and let everyone watch one show before bed and then it was bed for all. Tomorrow will be our first day of a summer schedule so we will see how that works!

May 22, 2017

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Not many folks were stirring this morning. Robby had to wake up Whitman and Keaton and later I had to wake up Campbell and Reagan. Actually, after I woke Reagan up I do believe that she went back to sleep.
Keaton headed off to school and Whitman headed off to Nonna's house. The rest of us started on school. As soon as Graham had finished his work around 9:30ish, he went outside and moments later their went out a call that the neighbors were out. Never seen people finish their school work so quickly. It was amazing. Honestly though, they are doing just a bit of school work right now as we are gearing up for summer.
Everyone was outside until almost 11:30 when the neighbors had to go in. This was perfect since I had already told my people that 11:30 is when we would work together. We finished our history book today and are still pressing on with science (which is actually interesting to me right now-but it is currently more geography than science.)
I had just steam mopped the kitchen floor so when Reagan asked if they could eat lunch in the living room and watch a tv show, I quickly agreed. After lunch, we worked on chores and before too long, Keaton and Whitman returned.
Nonna and the kids had worked on cupcakes and Pops stopped to pick up Sonic drinks. Keaton knew everyone's Sonic orders so all of my people were pleased. That kitchen floor didn't stay too clean with those cupcakes (or with the shredded cheese that we had for supper.)
The afternoon seemed to fly by (meaning that I can't really remember anything that we did.) Soon, it was supper time and despite Pops' concern that my baked potatoes wouldn't be ready in time, they were. We ate and then loaded up for the Upward Soccer Celebration.
I wasn't looking forward to tonight because I feared that they would have the same unicycle man that we have seen for many a years. Instead it was a ventriloquist and there were some pretty funny parts. Whitman was in my lap and he would just laugh and laugh.
Afterwards, everyone was given a backpack and fruit roll ups so my crew left happy. Once we made it home, most of the kids went in to take showers and Robby and I put together a new grill.
His new grill had fallen completely apart so a new grill came tonight. We thought it wouldn't be a problem to snap it together real quick. Ha! While we were working, Robby remembered once a man paying him to come over and put together a grill. This made us question what made us think that we could just do one in a few minutes while the kids were showering. Keaton stuck it out with us and helped to the end and thankfully we were finished before midnight. Kidding, it wasn't too bad and we still had time for the kids to eat ice cream when we were finished.
They all ate ice cream and then Keaton showered. We watched a bit of tv before bed and then it was lights out for the Dennie crew.

May 21, 2017

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Graham came to our room this morning asking if he could get his breakfast. Surprisingly, he didn't have his church clothes on yet. This is so unusual for him; he must have forgotten that today was Sunday. Soon his clothes were on and he was eating breakfast.
I did have to wake up Whitman and Campbell. They were the last two to get ready this morning and even though we only had four kiddos here this morning, we were much later than usual.
We were so tardy that Pops was walking around with Keaton in the hall since church had already started. She later told me that when she was sitting on the pew with Nonna and Pops everyone that walked by her told her how cute she was. I think that she liked this very much.
As I was heading upstairs, I saw Reagan and her buddies showing up. She enjoyed her night with Camryn-roller skating, ice skating, pizza, swimming and a board game. We did Sunday school and then church.
Lunch was at Nonna's house. She had sandwiches and all of the fixings. The kids played for a bit and then we headed home. The kids watched some tv and lots of pictures were added to our gallery wall by Keaton, Campbell and Reagan. My hallway is now practically covered in pictures-I left them up just about as long as I can. Now I will have to go through them and pick out a few keepers.
I had a good nap this afternoon but it was a short one. I do believe that everyone except for Anderson came in to ask a question. He jumped to the favorite kid spot! Around 5, the kids all migrated outside and Robby did a bit of mowing while I worked on a few things for next week.
After everyone had showers, I made supper for the kids. Then we were able to watch a bit of tv before sending everyone to bed. The boys were very happy to get to use their lights for a bit before time for bed.

May 20, 2017

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We were pretty sure that the ball games would be rained out this morning but we have thought that before so we still woke up early to check and see. The thunder was probably our first clue but indeed the games had been cancelled. Robby text the folks and before he managed to come back into our bed, Whitman was cuddled up beside me.
Robby said that we were both snoring when he came back to retrieve his spot so he ended up in the bonus room. By 7:15 though my bed buddy was awake and I was a bit giddy about soccer being cancelled so I was up and working.
Don't think that I am a horrible person about being glad soccer was cancelled-the kids went out with a bang on Tuesday and Thursday nights...everyone won their games and they all had friends there to cheer them on.
I folded laundry, emptied the dishwasher, made the boys straighten their room and the bonus room before I would pass out breakfast. My girls weren't up yet but the smell of our breakfast buffet (sausage biscuits, chicken biscuits, cereal, toast, muffins and poptarts) must have floated up the stairs to their room and woken them up.
Keaton was ready to head to Pops' house and asked to pack as soon as she woke up. I held her off for a bit until Reagan had eaten breakfast and then they both packed together. Grannymom and Grandpa came over to help hang up the boys' new shelves in their room. Graham has been waiting for months for his shelf above his bed.
Meanwhile, Keaton was watching my phone waiting on Pops' to come and pick her up. She kept looking and looking telling me that he was still at home. Soon though, he was no longer at home and was finally here. She couldn't get out of the house fast enough.
Before I realized it, it was time for me to jet out of the house to take Reagan to Camryn's house to celebrate her birthday. They went ice skating and swam so I know that they had a wonderful time.
Anderson, Campbell and I headed to the store. We all found it a bit humorous that we bought everything in sets of 3-3 cans of paint, 3 bottles of shampoo, 3 colors of thread, 3 pairs of shoes (Anderson needed Sunday sandals, flip flops and Campbell needed some tennis shoes). When we made it home, Grannymom and Grandpa were still working on the shelves so the boys and I started on a few craft projects.
Graham wasn't too happy about helping since it interfered with his Saturday vegging out but he probably was the most excited about the second project that we did. I am a bit embarrassed to even say that both of them were projects for Christmas.
Soon it was evening and we were loading up to eat at Tacos for Life. I really do like the place but my mango habenero taco was very habenero-y and much too spicy for me. I will definitely try something else next time. As we were ordering, we saw a flash run up to us and it was Keaton. She had convinced Nonna, Pops and Jason to eat there too. They had just finished. She was excited to see us but we couldn't convince her to go home with us though.
Back at home, the kids had showers and we watched a bit of Anderson's show that he has been watching-some science-y show. Then it was bedtime for everyone. We let them go to bed a bit earlier so the boys could use their new lights. Campbell was in the room by herself so I am surprised that she has stayed in there so far all alone!

May 19, 2017

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Alyssa Kate and Reagan said that they were awake until 2 last night and I certainly believe them. I went up at one point because it sounded like they were having a dance party on our heads. They were laying perfectly still when I made it upstairs but the dance party continued all night long. Apparently, they were laying in the perfect spot above our heads to make a squeaking sound come from our ceiling each and every time that they moved around in the middle of the night. I slept very little due to this and due to the fact that I didn't want to miss my alarm this morning.
I guess I was more concerned about being the last one to Hot Springs than being worried about missing the alarm. We were actually the first ones but it took a lot of scrambling around to have everyone ready and fed by the time that we left. We dropped Whitman off at Nonna and Pops house and he was so excited to be spending the day there.
We were the first of our group to make it to Magic Springs. Candice had planned us a little field trip to Magic Springs. I am not sure how educational this field trip was but it sure was a lot of fun.
After getting our tickets and entering the park, along with 100 more bus loads of kids, we headed to the theme park area. Some kids rode the bumper cars and others headed over to the little planes and carousel. Afterwards, we rode the log ride. There was another roller coaster and possibly a few other rides before we stopped for our lunch.
When lunch was finished, some of the big kids went off to ride a roller coaster and the rest of us walked to the water park area. From there we started to let the kids go off in groups or pairs to ride a ride and then come back and check in with us. Even though there were 6 mothers, we still had 17 kids (3 little ones stayed home). This made it a bit difficult to keep up with who was where with whom. We managed and made it home with all of our kiddos. Though I did panic occasionally because I would count my crew and not get the right number. Even thought I knew that Whitman was at Nonna's house, I still would try to count 6 but would worry when I only came up with 5 Dennies.
In the water park, we parked our stuff in a kiddie area and the little ones loved playing on the slides and in the water. Keaton was only able to do one other slide in that area-and she did it over and over again. Charlotte and she did this ride at least 4 times by their selves-imagine those little girls hauling a huge mat up 4 stories of stairs to slide down a massive slide. They loved it.
Speaking of Keaton, we saw a little girl who looked just like her. It was spooky the similarity. I didn't get a picture but their hair and cheeks and build were just so similar. They always say that everyone has a twin and this was definitely Keaton's twin.
The park closed at 4 so around 3, we all moved our spot-some went to a roller coaster, some went to different water slide and others went to the wave pool. At the end of the day, we all met back at the wave pool and the kids stayed in the pool until the life guards closed the pool and the park.
We took a group picture and then headed to our cars. I passed out drinks to my crew and we hit the road heading home. We picked up Whitman and he was not too happy to see us. He wanted to stay at Nonna's house and then he wanted to go somewhere else. He even refused to get out of the car-until I forgot about him and turned the lights off and went into the house.
The kids vegged for a bit and then we passed out supper just as the neighbors came out to play. Everyone played outside for a bit but Whitman ended up inside by me on the couch. It didn't take too long before he was fast asleep. I tried to wake him up but then I saw that it was 8 so I just let him snooze.
I looked over and saw that Robby was asleep in a chair and after Campbell ran in to say that they were going to play at the neighbor's house, I went on and closed my eyes too. We all stirred again (not Whitman) at 9. Robby fetched the kids and we threw them in the showers.
Robby decided that he would run to Kroger to buy some big Gatorades for all the soccer kids for their last game (yes, we know that it is probably going to rain). I tucked the kids in and they were pretty exhausted-I am too!

May 18, 2017

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Keaton and Whitman had a big day at school today-hat day for Keaton and silly sock day for Whitman. Whitman was already awake this morning but reminding Keaton about hat day did perk her up and soon she was down the stairs getting ready for the morning.
Reagan and Campbell were the last two to wake up this morning but before we could get Keaton and Whitman off to school, they were working on their school work. I think that we are only going to do 2 more days off school next week and then call it quits. I am getting a bit weary of checking people's math homework and don't think that I can hold out much longer.
Around 10, we worked together and then I worked on cleaning up Keaton's desk. It was a mess and I hope that it stays neat until the first day of kindergarten. We had to load up to run to the library before picking up Whitman and Keaton from school. They had a good day and were all happy to see us (I think.)
Keaton and I made lunch. I tried to pass out some of my leftovers but most everyone opted for sandwiches. I read our chapter book during lunch but after listening for a few minutes, Whitman ran to get a pile of his books. I read his books as the others started on their chores. You could read to that boy all day long and he would be completely happy.
At some point during the afternoon, Keaton called someone "ugly" so I made her come and set by me. You would have thought that I was killing her by not letting her play her ipad. I listened to screaming long enough to briefly google demon possession. I sent her on to her room and made her lay in her bed for an hour in hopes that she would go to sleep since she definitely needed her rest. She never did go to sleep even with my laying beside her the last 20 minutes of her sequestered time.
The neighbors came out to play and soon Alyssa Kate was here for the evening. We took her along with 3 neighbors to watch the soccer players play tonight. Keaton's team won their game tonight-woohoo! This is their first win in quite a few game. The boys and Reagan both played next. Their games were wins too so Robby decided to take everyone out to celebrate.
We ended up at Pie Five and the kids had a blast ordering all of their own pizzas. We ate outside and it was the perfect spot-we didn't have to worry about the 10 kids that were with us being a bit wild and the weather was perfect.
Once we made it home, we dropped off the neighbors and then showers were had by one and all. We let everyone stay up until 10, which was just about 15 minutes, and then it was bedtime. We have a very early morning in the morning and we all need our sleep.

May 17, 2017

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I hit snooze so many times this morning that my phone eventually just stopped buzzing. I did roll out of bed and see a few of my people getting their breakfasts and working on their school work. There were a few though who weren't in any hurry to get started this morning.
I am not sure what Campbell has been doing the last few days, possibly spinning her fidget spinner, but she hasn't been doing her work. It is like pulling teeth to get her to finish her stuff. I have tried to remind her that she is doing a lot less now than she was a few weeks ago but she would rather fool around.
Keaton and Whitman were home today and that does make things a bit crazier. Whitman worked on one of his coloring books-he was happy to do it with his dot markers. Those are his favorite things right now and my hallway has turned into an art gallery for a 4 year old. There are pictures hung on both sides 3 feet high. Occasionally, he will walk me through the hallway telling me about each picture, naming the colors, telling me who painted it and who helped him hang it up.
At 10:30, Anderson and I left the house. Today was his last appointment at the endodontist. I guess it has been a year since he met the pavement face first after his bike flip. We received the all clear so that is good.
Then it was home for lunch. Afterwards, I rounded the kids up and we went outside for a bit to pull some weeds in the flower beds. Then I had the boys work on one of their Christmas presents some. Yes, I know that I just said Christmas presents in May but there is no reason to wait until the last minute.
After we finished that, the kids came in and watched some tv before spying the neighbors outside. They then all ran out to play and stayed outside in the misty wet weather until I had to call everyone in before 5.
I had made supper so we sat down to eat before loading up for awards night at church. Keaton and Whitman's groups sang a few songs and Bible verses and the big kids choir sang a song and a few verses. The kids all received certificates and the big 3 got a little trophy. They were all pretty pleased with themselves but they were more excited about getting outside so they could eat ice cream and cookies and jump on the bouncys.
The weather was wettish so my boys came back to us pretty soaked. But that was fine because Reagan's group had messy game night outside so she was messier than they were. I am not sure what all they did but their was flour, mustard, ketchup, raw eggs to name a few. At least there was a slip n slide to help clean the kids off at the end of the evening.
Once at home, everyone showered (I made sure to wash Reagan's hair twice) and then had a drink before heading to bed.

May 16, 2017

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Everyone slept well last night and Robby and I even went to bed a bit earlier than usual. Anderson did tell me that Whitman woke them up at 6:30 and they had to put him in a headlock until 7. I am not sure that I really want to know what all happens upstairs.
I woke Keaton up and told her that today her class was going to the outside playground. She jumped up and was soon dressed and ready. Whitman was watching a movie and when I took his headphones off to tell him that it was outside playground day, he shouted, "really, oh goodie?"
Robby took them off to school and the rest of us started on school. Actually this morning when I first walked down the hallway, Anderson was sitting at his desk working. This never happens (Graham, however, usually does some school work before playing on his ipad before breakfast.) I praised Anderson and he replied, "My ipad's dead." Well, maybe I will need to unplug it each night before I go to bed so it won't charge!
At 10, we all worked together and Campbell was the only one who still had school to do. We worked on killing some ants outside, staining a few boards for Christmas, wrapping a birthday present and cleaning the carpet. If there was a way to do less school during the entire school year so you could have days like this always, I would be willing to try it...unless it involves skipping summer break!
Anderson made grilled cheese for lunch but that boy didn't even want to pass out strawberries and cantaloupe because he might have to touch them. I went to the treadmill after lunch and soon we were in the car heading to the doctor's office.
First we dropped the girls off at Grannymom's house and then it was the boys' turn to have their check ups. Everyone did well and Whitman was just a mess. He was not going to wear a dress and danced around in his underwear for a good 15 minutes in the exam room. Graham didn't do great on his vision screening-one eye was 20-30 (maybe) and the other was not 20-20 but with boys eye he did have 20-20 vision. The doctor wasn't concerned but this just won him a trip to the eye doctor when I go for my next checkup.
Whitman was the only one who needed shots today. Earlier in the check up he told Anderson that they would hurt but he would get a lollipop. I thought maybe he would do a bit better than Keaton. Her fussing lasted much longer than his-before, during and after but his was much, much louder. I believe "screaming" could actually describe it.
The boys had high hopes of us getting icees on the way home but there was no time for that. We had to grab the girls and head home. Once at home, we pottied, loaded the car, Campbell changed and we were back on the road to Campbell's soccer team.
Her game seemed so short tonight-I guess that is because we were not at Raymar for 6 hours and only there for 1. Campbell's team did lose tonight but she told me that they won. Either way, she had fun and hustled after the ball. Since all of her teammates were there today, she played only half of the time.
After the game, we headed to drop off a plant for one of my friends and ate supper at McDonalds. Then Robby remembered that this is 1 dollar scoop night at Baskin Robbins and since there was one of the way home, we stopped there too. Once at home, everyone had showers and after watching one little tv show, it was bedtime for all. They were all in bed fairly close to 9 tonight which is a win!

May 15, 2017

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At 3 this morning someone put their hand on me and it wasn't Robby. Reagan had come down to get me because our Keaton was sick. I hurried up the stairs in time to hear the loudest noise coming from the bathroom. It took me a bit but I figured out that it was sob. Keaton was crying out, "I want to go to the pottery place."
Poor Keaton was sick for about 2 hours. One minute I would think that she was asleep, and the next minute she would be running towards the potty. Around 5, she finally did go on to sleep and snoozed until 8.
We had planned on her going to school for a bit this morning before we went to the pottery place with the church preschool folks but she needed her rest so we did let her sleep until 8. I had already told her last night that if we weren't able to go to the pottery place today, we would go another day. After Keaton woke up and was soon running around the house chasing Whitman, I told her that we would indeed be able to go to the pottery place.
Everyone woke up and soon I was making toast for breakfast. Most everyone had toast but not many of my folks ate my new strawberry jelly. We then started to work on school for the morning. By 9, I was calling everyone to come and work together. We flew through science and history and then I was loading up with Keaton and Whitman.
The church preschool took kids to a pottery place this morning to paint a piece of pottery. Whitman and Keaton were so excited. They had asked me a zillion questions about what they were going to get to do. Keaton picked out a cross to paint and Whitman choose a car. He walked up to the lady and told her that he needed a red car, she took the hint and grabbed him red paint.
They painted and painted their pottery. I hope that they look decent but they had a blast painting today. Meanwhile back at the house, everyone was finishing their school work and starting on their chores.
When we arrived home, the house was picked up and the windows were being washed. I made lunch by cleaning out the fridge. Then we did just a bit more chores before I let the kids watch a movie. They were in and out all afternoon and spent a good deal of time playing outside.
Around 5, I loaded up with Reagan and we headed to Hobby Lobby to buy a birthday present and then it was a mad dash through the grocery store. Reagan volunteered to push and I kept her busy as she chased me through the store while I threw things in the cart.
When we were home, everyone was playing outside. They all stayed outside until almost dark before coming in for showers. It was nearly 8 when I started passing out leftovers for supper. Robby let everyone watch one Bates show before bedtime. Hopefully tonight will be a very uneventful night!

May 14, 2017

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I woke up to lots of sounds happening in the kitchen. I would occasionally hear a "shhh" or "it's almost time." Then I heard happy cheers of "we are going, we are going." Moments later, my door opened with all of the kids coming in carrying cards, presents, orange juice and a waffle covered in strawberries.
I opened up my cards first-everyone had cards for me. Whitman did say that my hair was pink and that my name was Momma but last year my name was Tara. Campbell gave me card that had a free hug on it. She also included "no expiration date" on her hug card. This made Anderson slap his head and say, "I forgot an expiration date." In the past, he had given me free hugs and when I tried to use them he was quick the point out the expiration date had passed. He had also made free hug cards for me today but this time he had forgotten to put an expiration date. You know I will be using Anderson's free hug cards and may even save a few for extra special embarrassing moments.
Whitman had made me a coaster in his school class and was so happy to give it to me. Robby had a huge roll of vinyl for my cricut, a magazine and lots of socks as my gift. I ate my waffle and then as Robby made waffles for everyone else, I had my shower.
Soon everyone was dressed and ready for church. They had a photo booth at church that we stopped out (it was really just Jason with his camera) so he took our picture and then we headed on to see Grannymom and Grandpa. (Nonna and Pops were headed to Ola.)
Then Keaton's class had a Mother's Day event that I went to with her. We made a wooden flower and then the kids sang their Sunday morning songs. Afterwards, we had muffins, cookies and yogurt. Meanwhile, Robby was holding down our Sunday school class-actually he was teaching the lesson since I wasn't able to get back until almost time to go.
Big church was next followed by lunch at Grannymom's house. Les, Shelley, Josh and Zach were all there and my kids were beside themselves with all of our their cousins at lunch. Everyone ate BBQ and all of the fixings. Then the kids played outside until we left around 3.
Back at home, we emptied the car, unloaded a few things and picked up downstairs. Then I had a short siesta and woke to throw food in the oven for supper. Nonna, Pops and Jason all came over for supper.
But before I fed Pops, I made him start on making me strawberry jelly. We ate Mexican and then I put Nonna and Pops back to work. Soon I had a few jars of jelly cooling on the cabinet, a jar in the fridge ready for us to eat in the morning and some extra strawberries in the fridge. Nonna opened her Mother's Day present and we took a few pictures.
Sometime during the evening, I did go in the living room to find at least 4 kids looking under the tv cabinet. A lizard had crawled into the house and it took a good 15 minutes for them to trap the lizard. They let him go right outside the door so I am sure he will find a way to crawl back in the next time someone leaves a door open around here.
It was pajama time and bedtime when everyone left tonight. This week is pretty crazy around here so everyone needs a bit of extra sleep.

May 13, 2017

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It was nearly one last night when Robby and I went to bed and we could still hear all of the boys going strong in the bonus room. They were laying down and talking (not so quietly) so we just let them be. So it was probably around 2 when they finally did go to sleep. On the way to soccer, Robby (their coach) told them that they all better win today.
Today's first game was not until 10 so we had a bit of extra time this morning. The boys spent time building Legos before breakfast. After breakfast, there was a massive nerf gun war happening upstairs. I had a hard time telling them that it was time to put uniforms on and leave because they were having so much fun.
Reagan met us at the game. She had spent the night with Grannymom. She told me all about their shopping trip at Old Navy and she was even able to eat at her favorite place-Tropical Smoothie.
Campbell and Keaton played first this morning. Now, bless poor Keaton's team. Keaton hustles after the ball and is the fastest one of the team. She didn't have a chance to score today nor did any of her teammates but the other team had about 10 chances to score. She didn't seem to care though at all and had lots of fun playing.
On the field catty-corner to Keaton was Campbell. Her coach was not there so they had a sub and those girls did great. I thought that the score was 3-4 but Campbell believed the score was 4-3. Campbell did score 2 goals and even though we were bouncing back and forth to watch two different games, we were there to watch her score both times. She played all but one period of the game, The sub coach would ask if she wanted to sit out and my Campbell would say that she wanted to play every time she asked.
Anderson and Graham's game was next. They won by one point and Anderson scored a goal and Graham almost scored 3. I will say this, those boys have really improved this year and they seem to really enjoy playing (especially Anderson).
Finally, we made it to Reagan's game. Right before the game started Anderson was asked to help out a 2 man 5th and 6th grade team. I grabbed his water and chin guards and he was off. He played 3 of the 6 periods and that team one. It didn't seem to bother Anderson that those boys were quite a bit bigger than he was. He would rush towards that ball no matter who had it.
Down the field, Reagan's team was winning their game. The score was just 1-0 and her team didn't really seem to be on today-nor have they been lately. But that didn't matter because Reagan has a blast. She is fun to watch because she is a little coach out on the field telling her fellow players what to do, how to throw the ball in, where to run....
Since I never buy picture, we took my kid soccer picture before we went to Sonic for lunch. The kids convinced Robby to go to the playground Sonic so we spent a good deal of time there. Then we ran to pick up a picture for Nonna and dropped it off at her house.
Afterwards, we came home and Robby and the girls worked on cleaning out the car while the boys and I worked on picking up the house. Then the kids scurried down the road to go and play with their neighbors. Robby and I worked more on the garage.
Then he mowed the neighbors front yard a bit and cleaned up over there while I stole their ferns. Well, not really store but they are just going to die since no one is watering them. I did wrote a note and put on their porch saying that I was trying to keep them alive on my front porch and to come and get them when they return.
Robby grilled hot dogs and hamburgers tonight and discovered that his grill is just falling apart. It still grilled some pretty good burgers though and we all ate outside. The boys were able to fly their drones and everyone played until it was dark. Then shower time and the evening was going splendidly until Robby noticed a laundry basket with quite a bit of water in it and then he looked up.
Yep, something in the attic was leaking. We discovered that our air conditioner is leaking and the drip pan must not be sealed very well because one corner was leaking which was trickling down an air vent. Robby used the shop vac to suck up the water, we propped up the drip pan and even put a bucket underneath and now we get to call an air conditioner man-the fun just never stops here!
The kids were oddly busy in the school room tonight-I wonder what they were so busy making in there? Maybe I will find out tomorrow. Once Robby and I had cleaned up our mess, it was time for the kiddos to go to bed. I am sure that they need lots of extra rest tonight after staying up so late last night.

May 12, 2017

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The night was uneventful and the first thing we heard this morning was a gaggle of kids in the kitchen. It would have been nice if they were making me breakfast or better yet emptying the dishwasher. But nope, they were playing with the perler beads. This was fine though but I did have to tell them that they only had a few minutes left before it was time to start school for the morning.
We did eventually start school but after everyone cleaned up a few hundred perler beads off of the kitchen floor. I hate those beads but I love them just as much-they are a mess and a lot of work for me to iron them and clean them up but the kids spent so much time working on them and are generally happy and kind while creating some perler bead creation.
School went well this morning even though I seemed like I was running ragged getting my little things accomplished. I told Robby tonight that I feel like I do more work by 10 am than most people do in a day. He doubted me and mentioned that most people do get up before 8. I won't bore you with the list of my morning but trust me, I do work pretty hard-even though I like to take an occasionally siesta.
Around 11, we worked together before running through the house doing chores and getting ourselves ready. Then it was off-we headed down the road to the grocery store because it was their tent sale. We bought 20 pounds of potatoes, 2 flats of strawberries, a cantaloupe and some tomatoes.
Then we dropped off Reagan to Grannymom. Reagan was spending the night over there tonight and before I even asked this morning she already had her bag packed and was ready to go. Nonna and Pops arrived at our house soon after we made it home and we all went to work.
I do believe that this is one of Graham and Campbell's favorite days of the year. I do think that they enjoyed today as much as Christmas-today was strawberry cutting day. Everyone helped slide the strawberries-this year everyone but Whitman had pretty sharp knives. I did look up at one point and Graham had his knife in his mouth. Keaton started out with a sharp knife but eventually asked for one like Whitman had. Whitman stuck with strawberry cutting for a pretty good while.
With many hands it didn't take us long at all to freeze quite a few containers of strawberries. We had so much fun doing this that Robby bought me another flat to strawberries to make some jam with and I might possibly make some strawberry muffins to freeze as well. I love filling up my freezer-could only be better if I had grown the strawberries myself.
Robby left with the boys after work and they picked up the Nelson boys. Whitman, Campbell and Keaton were my constant help in the kitchen this evening and soon the Wilsons were over and we were eating a Mexican spread.
After eating, Shannon and I made a strawberry cobbler, 3 pans of cookies and sliced and sugared her strawberries so she could take them home to freeze. The boys watched a few movies but it is currently 11:30 and they are playing Legos perfectly and we just don't have the heart to put them to bed yet.

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