- I didn't wake up for the treadmill this morning, but I did still wake up before everyone else in the house. Graham did come down the stairs first and start right in on his school work. I had to wake everyone else up. I did feel a bit bad about this since they did go to bed late last night, but school was calling their names.
- I had intended for us to start our breakfast and lunch menu when we started on school. However, when I checked the list this morning, we were low on different kinds of cereal. Now we do have at least 10 boxes of Reagan and Graham's cereal, but that is about it. So I did let everyone grab their own breakfasts. Thankfully, no one opted for a time consuming smoothie or eggs.
- I read during breakfast and then we started our work together time. That time seemed to fly by today and soon we were on to their own work. I am still not reading with each child and doing spelling with them so next week (or whenever I start that), my school day will be a lot longer. But today, things went well, very well in fact.
- Graham had a pretty rough day yesterday, but today he was finished with his school probably by 10. After he finished his chores, he moved on to the xbox. At one point during the day, I wrote Robby about a few things and mentioned how well Graham did today. Graham had already text him to tell him. I think that he was pretty proud of himself.
- Whitman was the last one to finish school today. I was still helping him finish up after lunch. I am afraid that he is going to be like Anderson-just in no hurry to finish his work. Phonics is pretty hard for Whitman so that does take forever. It is just a lot of writing. Half of his school work is play so don't worry about me being a slave driver. His highlight today was making the letter E out of Legos.
- We ate our lunch and then worked on chores afterwards. This was the first day that we were able to get back together after lunch and do some more reading. My friend has read a book, which is on my library hold list, that says that if you read and read to your children, then they will learn more during that time than during anything else that they do all day. I kind of believe that so I am going to try to read more with the kids this year. We will see how that goes though!
- We had planned to go to the pool today, but none of our friends were going so we will just go tomorrow. So this afternoon was kind of slow. The boys played on their xbox ALL afternoon and pretty much all evening long. Reagan was on her Ipad the entire time too. We did try to get the neighbors to come outside but never heard from them.
- I headed to the library at some point during the afternoon. I asked if anyone wanted to go with me and Keaton was the only taker. I did assign chores for my kiddos staying here. The boys were happy that I asked them to organize the pants drawer so they could do that while on the Xbox. I haven't checked their work though but do plan on it next time I am upstairs.
- Keaton and I left right after 5. We dropped off something at Grannymom's house and then hurried to Chuck E Cheese. The preschool at church took all of the upcoming first graders to celebrate their promotion. The place now gives out a game card that is unlimited games for an hour. So that meant that Keaton and I worked hard and fast playing as many games as we could for an hour. She did get over 500 tickets.
- Meanwhile, everyone else had some pizza at home. Then Robby took Campbell, Graham and Whitman to the movies. Campbell had earned a movie a long time ago for something or another (it has indeed been that long that I have forgotten why we gave her a movie), Graham had a birthday gift card and Whitman, well, he just got to go even though he was probably terrified the entire time.
- Once everyone was home, the kids played some and Robby worked on our never ending ant problem. They are better but are still plaguing us. Hopefully, they will soon go away for good. And once again, we put the kids to bed probably a bit too late for a school night! But it is still summer after all.
- Campbell and Whitman were the first ones to wake up this morning. I was a bit surprised by this since Graham set his alarm for 7 sharp even though Anderson protested greatly last night. Campbell had already started on her school work while Whitman had his ipad and was hidden under a chair watching a movie. I am glad that he at least knows that he isn't supposed to have his ipad in the morning time.
- Soon it was 7:30 and I was waking all of my other sleepyheads up. Everyone came down, and we started on our breakfast. Everyone ate while I read, and then we moved to my room.
- My favorite part of the day is when we work together, and I pretty much read to everyone for an hour. Now tonight, Reagan did act like she didn't enjoy this time, but I really do think that the she does. Who wouldn't?
- We then started on school work which was a bit more difficult this week. The kids all added math to their list of things to work on. Reagan, Anderson and Graham had pretty much forgotten how to do their math, and I am actually a bit fuzzy on some of Reagan's math.
- Campbell and Keaton finished early and went to see Grannymom for a bit with Robby. The rest of us buckled down on school work. Now, Whitman is so happy just taking his sweet time during school. Last year, Keaton was gung ho and ready to quickly finish her work, but Whitman is completely opposite.
- Reagan did complete one of her science experiments today. She gathered the materials and went to work all by herself. I love that! I hope all of that continues. Independence is the goal. Her experiment used cabbage leaves which we bought. Now if anyone needs some leftover cabbage then let me know. I think that she used one leaf of the entire head of cabbage.
- After lunch, Graham and I started to work on organizing his basketball cards. Gracious, it was a bit more of a project that I had planned on. Once that was accomplished, I worked a bit on painting a sign. My machine was giving me a hard time so I took out the cutter piece to see if it was still sharp...yep, after cutting my finger pretty good, I determined that it was still very sharp!
- Robby and I made a pretty dandy supper tonight-pork chops, mashed potatoes, biscuits, corn, lima beans and edamame. The Wilson's even came over to help us eat the pork chops. We had to give them a disclaimer saying that we had never made pork chops before, but surprisingly they were pretty delicious.
- The Wilsons all stayed long enough for us to enjoy some ice cream, and then they headed home. My crew had spent quite a bit of time playing outside this afternoon so I am think that they were a bit tired. Campbell and Keaton didn't even eat until after 9.
- Once the Wilson's left the kids jumped in the showers. It was fairly late when the crew finally made it to bed. My dishes are still washing so I guess I will stay up a bit until they were finished!
- The boys were up early this morning. I think that Graham might have been a bit of excited about his birthday. When you have already had your birthday party, I think that birthdays are a bit anticlimactic. We did try not to make it so for Graham today though.
- After everyone was awake and dressed, we lit the candles and sang Happy Birthday to Graham. We had cinnamon rolls from Silver Dollar City as our breakfast this morning. I think it was a pretty great way to start his birthday.
- Church was next, and even though we arrived a bit late, they still had not started yet. We were able to see the grands and sit down before church started. When we greeted the guests, the lady behind us tried to shake Whitman's hand, but he refused telling her that his hands were sticky. I tried to tell him to just lick his hands clean, but after touching them, he could have never gotten those fingers clean. So we left church to quickly wash his hands. Afterwards, all was well and we were able to listen to the sermon (kind of).
- We had lunch this afternoon at Nonna and Pops' house. The had pork tenderloin along with Graham's much awaited birthday cake. Graham was happy to blow out his candles once again. The kids had a bit of time to play before we headed home. Graham and Campbell played a game of Battleship. Anderson worked on piecing together some of Jason's old Star Wars toys.
- This afternoon the kids spent quite a bit on their ipads while I had a wonderful afternoon nap. I started thinking about my nap this morning, and it could have only been more perfect if it had been raining.
- Reagan had her Bible study at church tonight. They painted a flower pot and planted basil. Meanwhile, we had a Sunday school teacher's meeting. Robby and I will be teaching Campbell's class next year. The meeting was fine, but the highlight was the Tazikis that they brought in for our supper.
- After most of our meeting was over, Robby ran home to pick up the kids. He gave them supper and then returned to pick up Reagan and me. Then we headed to Krispy Kreme. There were not a lot of choices, but everyone found something.
- We lit the candles and much to Graham's embarrassment, we semi-loudly sang Happy Birthday. We ate our doughnuts, and then headed home. The kids put on their pjs and then watched a bit of a Bates tv show before going to bed for the night. Day 5 of school starts tomorrow!
- Robby and I woke up in plenty of time this morning. We didn't hit up the hotel breakfast but instead we opted for doughnuts....except we didn't get any. We stood in a 10+ minute line waiting for our turn at the counter. When we made it, we asked about apple fritters to bring back for Tony. They were out. Then we asked about glazed doughnuts to bring back for the kids. They were out. So we left.
- That was fine, because we were soon at Sullivan's Mill in Silver Dollar City eating some of the very best cinnamon bread. We pretty much devoured it before heading to our cooking class.
- Today's class was about making focaccia bread. Now, I have eaten it (probably) but don't know anything about it. The bread was really good and seemed to be doable. They also made a veggie spread to go on top of the bread. It was chocked full of vegetables. Robby, nor I, ate much of that!
- I seriously had the best time at all of the cooking classes. Now, will ever make anything? Maybe the mango salsa, but that is probably all. It was just fun getting to do something that we normally wouldn't get to do.
- After the class, we hightailed it out of the park only stopping long enough to buy cinnamon rolls for the kids. Then it was on the road home. We did stop at Courseys and split a turkey sandwich. Robby did buy a piece of beef jerky, and it took him until almost the time we made it home to finish the chewy thing off.
- We did have to stop at Dollar General so as not to let a 5 dollar coupon go to waste. Then we left Sams with new Sams cards, free bananas, free cookies, free pizza and would have had free rotisserie chicken but they were out of that.
- After our speed shopping, we picked up the boys. They had a low key day with Anderson smoking everyone in Monopoly and then lunch at McDonalds. On the way home with them, we ran to Kroger to buy some of the Saturday specials.
- As we were unloading the car at home, Pops and Nonna brought home the girls. So everyone spent some time unpacking the bags and helping for a bit. Campbell, Keaton and Whitman were quick to go outside and play with the neighbors.
- Soon I called them in so we could head to the Wilson's house to eat supper. We all ate, and while the kids were playing upstairs, Robby fried some oreos for dessert. They were pretty good and much better than real oreos.
- We stayed out a bit too late since most folks needed showers. I think my Keaton and Campbell are the most glad that we are back home. It has been 4 years since Robby and I have been gone so I guess they aren't too used to us being the ones who are not at home!
- Robby and I were pretty lazy this morning and stayed in the bed for as long as we could. This no responsibility thing is kind of nice! (just for a bit though) We had our cooking class at Silver Dollar City at 11 so we left the motel around 10.
- It took us awhile to make it down the strip, but soon we were in the parking lot and huffing up the hill to the entrance. We made it in plenty of time and were soon in the line waiting for the class.
- This morning's class was about fruit salsa which the lady also canned. It was really interesting. We even had plenty of samples of the canned and fresh salsa to try. We actually enjoyed it so much that we signed up for the 2:00 class as well.
- After the class, Robby and I split some nachos and walked around some of the Silver Dollar City shops that we never get to go inside of. The next class was about canning pork posole. We had no idea that you could can meat so all of that class was interesting to us.
- I think that I would like to can something or another. I am just not so sure if I could do meat though. The instructor was really nice and must have felt pity on us with all of our questions because she gave me her phone number!
- Next up, we went back to the motel for a little bit. Robby napped and I read my book. Then it was to the Landing for supper at Joe's Crab Shack. We had to wait on our table but I bought a new water bottle lid for me while we waited. Then we split crab dip and a crab burger.
- Afterwards, we drove down the strip, to the other side actually, to eat a Beaver Tail. We split it also. They were pretty good though I had the apple and it was a bit heavy and messy. We took a shortcut back to the motel and were in our room in just minutes as compared to the hour it took us to get there.
- We have only heard from Keaton and Campbell today. And Anderson did write to tell us good night. We did hear that the girls went to the mall and did some baking while the boys went to ride go carts and went to basketball. I am sure that they have all had a good time on their mini vacation as well.
- Tomorrow we have one more cooking class and then we will head home to the real world!
- Day 4 of school and after staying up past 10 last night, I had to wake everyone up this morning. I went upstairs first to turn off the fans. I didn't even open the blinds since they had a few more minutes. I did put toothpaste on the toothbrushes and must have made so much noise that soon Anderson and Whitman were downstairs.
- Everyone else trickled down the steps though I did have to call Reagan a few times before she woke up. I read to everyone while we ate our breakfast. Then we moved to my bedroom, and we read and worked on our meeting work for about an hour.
- School work then started, and everyone zoomed through their school work. Soon they were doing some last minute packing and chores. I worked speedy fast trying to pull out work for next week for everyone-I guess that we will do school at least one more week!
- Everyone had paninis for lunch today. Graham has a panini every single day that he eats a sandwich. Today Robby was making one too so I guess that is why everyone else followed suit. I was around for a bit after lunch, and then I ran to the dentist. I had a check up and do need two crowns in the not so distant future.
- Once I returned home, everyone loaded up Robby's car, and we headed to Nonna's house to drop off the girls. They spent their evening playing in the sprinkler (Campbell), playing on their ipads, eating spaghetti and popcorn.
- Then we ran back home to pick up Robby's phone. Next was dropping the boys off at Grannymom's house. The boys had a big evening and enjoyed some ice cream before bed. Robby and I high tailed it to Branson once our car was void of kids.
- Robby and I ate at Billy Bob’s Dairyland, and it was as good as we remembered. Though they did forget about our chocolate fried pie and ice cream for a good while. Afterwards we went to the hotel.
- After unloading, we walked around the hotel grounds for a bit before coming back to the room. It is a redone little motel which is pretty nice on the inside. We are watching HGTV, and I am about to start reading a book!
- Since Cash spent the night last night, I had decided that everyone could take it easy this morning if they wanted and just do their days school this afternoon. Whitman was the first one up. As soon as I had gotten his milk and breakfast, we started to work on his school. He didn't seem to mind, and we knocked out most of his work. His phonics went from easy (yesterday) to hard (today). Today he was having to read two sentences and mark which one went to the picture (Sam sat on a rat. Sam sat on a cat.) This part of the kids' phonics program is the most dreaded by me, but Whitman said, "this is fun."
- Campbell was the next one awake this morning. She soon joined us in the school room and went to work on her school. Keaton was next in the school room as well. By this time the boys were up, playing with Cash, so they weren't thinking about their school work.
- Around 9, I had everyone stop what they were doing and put on their bathing suits. Then they fixed their lunches-this is a very random thing. Some kids choose to bring nothing at all while others carefully pack a sandwich in a little baggie.
- The pool was chilly this morning. Actually, I never really got in all of the way; that is how chilly it was. The kids were slow to get in it as well. The big kiddos headed to the playground with their friends for a little bit.
- Eventually everyone did climb in the pool. They were happily playing when I had said that we would go so I stayed another 30 or so minutes. Afterwards, we loaded up and headed to Dairy Queen. We are trying to get caught up on our free Blizzards so we don't lose any. I had one extra kiddo so I had just enough tickets. They did make an extra so I even had a Blizzard.
- Once at home, the boys started to work on their school. This was a good experience because I quickly learned that doing school in the afternoons isn't such a great idea. The boys did finally finish their work and started on their chores. I was able to work with Whitman and finish up his leftover school work too.
- Everyone did a bit of packing and by the end of the afternoon, everything on our list was crossed off which was wonderful. I soon headed to Bunko a bit early with Candice. Robby took Campbell and Keaton to the grocery store for a very long time. Once I did make it back home, Robby had just put the kids into bed after eating cookies and staying up late. He thought that everyone would still be up. I went upstairs to tell everyone good night and could only find Reagan still awake!
- I was the first one awake this morning. By the time that I had folded the laundry, Anderson and Graham were in the school room working on their school. We had said that we will not do ipads in the morning time before school actually starts. So if they wake up before breakfast, then they can work on their school work. I think the extra school work time will greatly help Anderson.
- School went well today, but Whitman was in no hurry to do his work. He didn't sneak off and get his ipad like yesterday though. He was just happy wandering around talking to everyone else. I eventually worked with him and helped him finish everything. I still even had time to iron some perler beads before lunchtime.
- At lunch, we had just finished reading and eating when the Heltz knocked on our back door. They were out trying to vacuum out their car so they stopped by for a little bit. The kids played a kickball game for a while.
- Once they left, my crew started on their chores and were soon finished. The neighbors came out and the girls spent the most time outside. They sat in the garage on a blanket with the fan blowing on them and played a game. I was able to finish a few things this afternoon.
- Soon though, it was time for Keaton and me to load up for her to go to a birthday party. She had a lot of fun but she only knew two little girls. It was almost time to leave when she motioned for me to come to her and asked if it was time to go. After that, we didn't stay too much longer.
- The others had come in but then had gone back outside. When I drove up, Campbell told me that her dad said that she couldn't play on the slip n slide and asked me to ask him again. It was a bit pitiful with her and Whitman just watching the neighbor on the slip n slide. I asked Robby, and he said, "she asked to go inside." Since he thought she had asked to go in the neighbor's house, he said no.
- We then told Whitman, who had come in to ask again, that yes, they could do the slip n slide. Campbell wisely didn't believe Whitman so she came back in to ask again. She was delighted to go and play in the slip n slide. They were the last 2 in tonight and were soaking wet when they did come in. I think they had a great time.
- Everyone had showers and a bite of ice cream. We did let everyone stay up until 10 tonight. I will try to do pool tomorrow so hopefully, we can accomplish all of it!
- Since this was the first day of school and since I have a few lofty goals, I was awake at 6 this morning and was soon on the treadmill. I was pretty pleased with myself for getting out of bed even though I honestly doubt that this trend will continue for long.
- After I finished, Whitman was soon awake. I offered for him to ride with Robby and me to drop off Robby's car, but he declined so I set him up with some of his school work to do. We ran to drop off the car and were soon headed back home.
- I had to wake up Reagan, but by 8 everyone was huddled in my room. We are only doing about half of our work together right now (science, Bible verses, Who is God? book, history, Genesis and Latin, which is new for us this year.) There will be lots of other memory work items, but we are going to add things slowly this year.
- After doing all of these things for about an hour, we started on school. Everyone has about 4-5 things to do each day this week. I picked new or difficult things for everyone to do. Reagan pretty much was slammed with her work which included her new science. Anderson and Graham had a decent amount which took them until 10:30ish. Keaton and Campbell were done fairly quickly so I know that I will add a bit more to their schedule next week.
- And Whitman, the kindergartner, had all of his work. I should have taken a picture of each little thing he did. The other day I was showing him his work. I opened the drawer with his math pages and told him that this is his math. He quickly grabbed a calculator and told me that he was going to cheat. I read the instructions (count the squares and circle the number) and he was a bit disappointed that he couldn't use his calculator.
- Whitman did a few things on his own, but needed prompting to finish many of his items. He did continue working until his school work was over. I do think that his favorite part of the day was when he read to Anderson and when Anderson read to him. I think that Graham and Whitman work together tomorrow so we will see how all of that works out!
- Overall, I couldn't have been more pleased with how the day went. Reagan took the longest but this year, her work is just going to take longer. Hopefully, she will figure all of that out and work when every she gets a chance.
- It was a fairly busy morning because after school, we worked on our chores and did some of the kids Jr. Ranger books. By 12:30, our lunches were packed and our bathing suits were on. We met the buddies at the pool and stayed there until almost 4.
- Afterwards, we ran to Dairy Queen for our weekly treat. Then at home, I dropped off the kids and went with Robby to pick up his car. They said it wasn't broken so we guess that is a good thing though it definitely was broken on Saturday.
- The Wilsons came over for supper. Robby grilled some hot dogs, and he even made some fries in his air fryer. The second batch was crispy and pretty perfect. We will still have to perfect our fry making skills. The kids played kickeball while we devoured the rest of the oreo delight.
- Once they went home, my crew took their showers and then headed to bed. Tomorrow will be school day number 2 so we all need our rest!
- Robby and I woke up fairly early this morning because we were anxious to try out the new air fryer toy. We both took our showers and then went to work in the kitchen. Robby made cinnamon rolls. Then the boys helped him with air frying doughnuts. They were actually biscuits which we air fried and then dipped in cinnamon and sugar. Overall, they were good but not really like doughnuts.
- By the time that breakfast was over, everyone had on their church clothes. The boys played on the xbox for about 10 minutes, and then it was time to load up for church.
- After church this morning, we celebrated Graham and Lilly's birthdays at Grannymom's house. We sang Happy Birthday to them and then devoured cake. Afterwards, the kids played a few rounds of spoons outside and then played Old Maid inside.
- We headed home earlier than usual because Reagan's Bible study was at 3. When we made it home, we had about 10 minutes before leaving again. She had to take my sewing machine today for Bible study. Unfortunately, the bobbin keeps messing up and even did for Nitzia. (Any suggestions greatly appreciated.) I had told Reagan that Nitzia would know more about my machine than me, but even after rewinding the bobbin she was still having troubles.
- Reagan's Bible study is wonderful. They have lots of fun-tonight they decorated cookies, sewed on a notebook and began sewing a bag. When I picked her up, we hurried home because the others were all waiting on us to head to the pool.
- The Kamps were at the pool so the kids were delighted to have some buddies there. Robby had packed hot dogs for everyone so we ate those during adult swim. We stayed until they closed the pool and then came home for showers.
- Once everyone had finished their showers, we started on dessert. We had more Oreo delight for our dessert tonight. As the kids were eating it, we watched a Facebook video. The person on it said that someone had a "previous commitment." Campbell asked what a commitment was. Whitman looked at her and said, "you know, the 10 Commitments!"
- The kids had just a bit of downtime before it was time for bed tonight. Tomorrow is the first day of school so everyone needs quite a bit of rest.
- We woke up around 5:30 to a darker than normal house. The power was out. Robby read that there had been a big storm and many folks were without power. We had no idea that there had been a storm last night, but all of the kids said that they woke up and heard it. Good thing that the kiddos aren't scared of the thunder and lightening or our room would have been filled since we heard that the storm was sure a doozy.
- We dozed for the next few hours until sun rise. Then kids were in and our of room, and we had plenty of text. I could have slept for hours more, but finally had to get out of bed. Every time my room was quiet again, I would fall back asleep and have a crazy dream.
- I worked on my morning chores in the darker house. I did walk through closing blinds when I normally walk through opening blinds. Robby did plug up the generator since the Entergy site said that it would be tomorrow at noon until our power returned.
- Pops had a tree and lots of branches down and requested the boys to come and help him. He offered to pay so they jumped at the chance. Keaton rode along with Robby on his errands. While they were gone, Reagan caught up on some sleep, and Whitman was my helper.
- The lights did come back on before Robby came back home. We waited until lunchish to go outside and get to work on our yard. We didn't loose a tree but gracious there were plenty of limbs. We had worked pretty hard one night this week picking up branches and got to do it all again this afternoon.
- The boys arrived just as we went out to work. They were already hot but did work incredibly well. Reagan also did great along with Keaton. Whitman did pretty well himself. He worked some and would wander off for a bit. It was incredibly hot all day today, and we all were sweating buckets.
- We worked until probably about 4:30. That is when Robby ran the kids to the gas station for a drink while I had shower. Then they came in and started cycling through the showers. Pops was already here cutting the watermelon when Robby just went inside to take his shower.
- We had at least 37 folks at Graham's 10th birthday celebration. We began with Robby's grilled hot dogs and burgers, which was the best burger I have had. We also had chips, watermelon and potato salad, which the people devoured.
- Then I divided the players into 4 teams, and we played kickball! I was on Graham's team and not only did we lose our first game, but we lost the loser's bracket game too! Ha! I don't think that he minded too much. In between the games, there were popsicles.
- Graham wanted oreo delight for her birthday so that is what he had! 3 pans full. Everyone sang to him and then ate as we watched him open his birthday presents. He received lots of cash, many gift cards, some shoes, a pen, lots of basketball cards, nerf guns and nerf bullets and a new basketball. Overall, he did pretty well!
- It was so incredibly hot today. I am sure that all of Graham's other kickball parties have been hot, but this one seemed especially hot. When everyone left, we all went to work picking up. Soon things were back in order, and showers began again.
- Noah is spending the night with us tonight. I am sure that they plan on waking up early to play a bit of fortnight before church. Robby and I plan on waking up early to make some doughnuts in his new air fryer. I bet that one of those group will actually wake up early!
- I was up early this morning, and I would guess that it was because I was excited about getting our Reagan back from camp. One of the first things I did was work on the kids' rooms. I had told everyone last night that we would clean their rooms before we left this morning. The boys had listened and worked on their beds. They had done a pretty pitiful job making their beds, but I let it go since they at least tried.
- I made their beds and then hurried everyone else along in their getting ready/eating breakfast process. We loaded up and headed to OBU at 8:30. I had thought that would give me plenty of time, but as we walked out the door, Robby received a text telling him about a wreck on the interstate.
- I ended up driving to Arkadelphia on a few backroads but we made it to the performance just as it was beginning. We were actually a minute early, but the boys had to stop in the restroom. I could have gone but the women's line was out the doorway.
- Seats were limited but our people had us a few. Keaton and Campbell shared a seat, and Whitman sat in my lap. He didn't last long and was soon asleep. This would have been fine but it was a bit packed in the auditorium and I was hot with his sweaty head up against me.
- First about a hundred kids performed in the orchestra. They played at least 3 songs and were excellent. Next, the Joyworks kids (3rd-6th graders) sang about 3 songs. There were 200 of them, and they were excellent as well.
- Reagan's group, the Jr. Varsity Praiseworks choir was next. I would assume there was 200 of them as well since they completely filled the stage. The Jr. Varsity was made up of middle school kids. (Reagan isn't really middle school yet, but our church wanted her and her buddies in that group this year.) They sang about 3 songs, and gracious, listening to all of those kids praising was so wonderful. I couldn't see a single bit of Reagan the entire time though!
- Finally, the Varsity Praiseworks kids (high school) sang next. They concluded their performance with the Jr. Varsity filling the stage as well. Anytime you have to move 200 kids around it takes time each time. They were good to fill the time with videos and the camp pastors spoke for a minute.
- By the time the program was over, we had been sitting for 2 and a half hours. I know that is a very long time, but the talent was incredible. I was sold on this camp by the time we left...and so were my kids. I hope Reagan realizes what a neat opportunity she had this year.
- Her extra classes this week, other than choir, was photography where she took a few pictures. She said the instructor was really nice, so I think that she might have learned a little bit! Next she had art where she illustrated a bit of song on a canvas. It was hot unloading the trailer to get her stuff and the car barely cooled off by the time we made it to McDonalds in Caddo Valley for lunch.
- There was a bathroom line along with a new girl at the cash register so getting our food took longer than expected. Then my gas light popped on as I was leaving the parking lot so I had to cross the street for gas. It was no surprise that the neighbors had rode their bus home, unloaded and were pulling into their driveway when we rolled down the street.
- Back at home, Grannymom and Grandpa were here. Reagan unpacked and soon found her spot under her blanket with her ipad in her lap. We were able to squeeze out a few facts about camp from her, but I do expect more info to come out in the next few days.
- Tonight Robby took the boys to basketball practice. Then Keaton, Whitman and him met Grannymom and Campbell at the swimming pool. Campbell is spending the night at Grannymom's house tonight.
- Robby worked some more with Whitman on his swimming, and the determination is that he is not ready to go off of the diving board just yet. He did do it once today, but went too deep before deciding to come back up.
- Reagan and I stayed here. She had a smoothie for supper, and much to her delight I showed her all of her school work for next week so she would be familiar with everything hopefully. I was trying to figure out our new Latin lessons when the crew came home from basketball and the pool.
- They started on showers and supper and soon it was bedtime. It feels like a Saturday to me, but tomorrow is Graham's birthday party so it will be a super busy day around here.
- I knew that we had a very short morning this morning because we were going to try to be at the pool at 10. The kids were already up by the time that I started stirring. Now, we still had time to do some chores and reading.
- My boys thought that they could lose their mind since Robby had left for Conway. Graham acted like he hadn't read a book all summer long even though we have been doing it almost every day this summer. Anderson decided he didn't want to go swimming and just started at me when I asked him to put on his bathing suit. Their craziness started my day just about caused me to lose my mind!
- The kids enjoyed playing at the pool. Whitman is working hard on his swimming though this means that I am almost always in the water which is not where I would prefer to be. I would rather be sitting with my legs dangling in the pool. Though taking of Whitman's life jacket and letting him swim, does get my in the pool quicker. I forget about it being cold and have to hop in to grab him.
- We ate lunch at the pool and then around one, we loaded up and headed to the library. We are now back at 88 library books checked out. It is pretty near school time so I am sure that the number will increase even more.
- Once we made it home, we unloaded our books. Then the girls and I worked on making cookies for Graham's party. I doubled the recipe and after 5 dozen cookies, I decided to freeze the rest of the dough. Hmm, maybe I should have that tonight for a snack.
- Soon Robby was home and went to work on his lawnmower. The kids played outside for a little bit, but eventually we ended up inside eating our supper. After supper, the kids had their showers and then we settled in with oreos and a Bates tv show.
- Robby was already gone this morning when I stirred. He took my car to change the oil. We couldn't just let one car be in the shop, we felt that if one had to go to the shop, then they both should. Now, my oil change was a bit simpler than Robby's work but all cars are healthy now (though I am almost in need of new tires.)
- The plan had been for us to meet our people at the pool, but the rain this morning pushed those plans back to the afternoon. So we worked on our reading, Whitman's school work and chores around the house.
- The only excitement during the morning time was when the termite man came. We were expecting him, but I guess that Robby and I neglected to tell all of the kids that he was here. Whitman walked by him giving him to stare down. I told him that he was looking for bugs in the house, and Whitman quietly whispered to me, "he looked like Daddy." That man had a hundred pounds on Robby and even less hair!
- Anderson came down the stairs followed by Campbell. They both had a look on their face that told me that I indeed had not told them about the bug man! I will do better next time though since I am sure that he might have given them quite a shock!
- At noon, we loaded up for free hot dogs, chips and a drink that The Buzz radio station. It was across town so on the way back we ran by Dairy Queen. The lady at the window was able to name 4 of the 6 kids names. That is pretty impressive, but we just have a few more weeks left on our cards before they finish up.
- The next stop was dropping Robby off to pick up his car, and then we met the buddies at the pool. The kids swam for 2 and a half hours. They could have stayed longer, but I had to get them home.
- As soon as I dropped them off, I loaded back up and headed to the library. I met Sara at her library for an earring making class. We made 2 pairs of beaded earrings. And no, I probably won't ever make them but I sure did have fun. I think it would be a fun craft though to do at Reagan's birthday party. We will see if I can convince her!
- The kids played outside some while I was gone. Robby mowed some until he belt came off. Later tonight while he was working on our ice maker, he moaned that he was tired of fixing things around here. Indeed, it does seem like most things are falling apart! I made some cookies for a snack and the kids ate them while watching some tv before bed.
- This was a fairly uneventful morning. We did accomplish quite a bit even though we weren't in much hurry at all. It was the type of morning that had me questioning my sanity of starting school next week. You know some families are "unschoolers" which they would count video games as problem solving, grammar and reading skills and count slime making as science and count cartwheeling in the living room as physical education and count the reading of the cereal box as literature and nutrition. Basically, that was our morning so maybe I should become an "unschooler" and count it as a day of school.
- Whitman did work with me on his reading book this morning. He has 24 lessons before he finishes that blasted thing. Since I have done it 6 times now, I do know the stories by heart. However, reading with Whitman is a bit excruciating. He can't focus and wants to talk all of the time. All of that to say, our reading book time probably won't be during our school time like it has been for everyone else. His reading book time will probably have to be later in the day when things are a bit slower.
- Around lunch, I read a few books to the kids. One was all about poop! Yep, the boys loved it, but the girls not so much. After we finished eating, the kids finished a few chores.
- The girls and Whitman did go with me to the pool this afternoon. Whitman practiced swimming and even swam the short length of the pool by himself. They swam for a good while until there was thunder. We waited around and then swam for 30 more minutes before running to the dollar store to buy a few things for Graham's party. The girls and even Whitman bought Graham a present. I am not sure what they picked for him because I didn't like the looks of one guy in the store and was on high alert until we were back safely in the car.
- We arrived back at home just as the boys and Robby were going out to work in the yard. We unloaded the car and then joined them. Anderson mowed the front yard, Graham mowed some in the back, and we all picked up many, many sticks. We worked for a long while and came in just about 20 minutes before it started pouring here.
- We headed up leftovers for supper. I know that it sounds like we eat leftovers every single night; it feels like we eat them every single night too! After supper, we waited around until it was time for us to head to a movie.
- Yep, we loaded up our 5 kids and took them to a movie at bedtime. Probably not the wisest thing to do, but it was fun. We saw Incredibles 2. The boys and Campbell loved it. Keaton slept through half of it. And Whitman was terrified through most of it. At one time, he loudly asked, "can you turn the movie off?" Good thing there was only us and one other lady in the movie. And we were the only people in the entire place when we left.
- It was almost midnight when we made it home. The kids quickly put on their pajamas, brushed their teeth and crawled into bed!
- Robby and I were almost the first ones awake this morning because we had to take his car to the shop for some repairs. Anderson and Graham were awake when we left. By the time we made it back, I text Reagan to urge her to get herself ready and do the rest of her last minute packing. She quickly wrote back replying that she had already done all of it.
- Indeed she had, we had about 20 minutes when I returned before it was time to drop her off. She is going to Praiseworks this week at Ouachita. It is what used to be Young Musician's Camp when Robby and I were her age. When I was in the 4th grade I went to Young Musician's Camp, and Robby was one of the counselors for our group. When I came back to school that fall, I guess I had a slight crush on Robby because I told all of my friends that I was going to become Mrs. Tara Jo Dennie when I grew up.
- Reagan's buddies, Alyssa and Kaleigh, will be her roomies so I am hoping that they have a wonderful time. Now this camp is one that you could bring phones too but since Reagan nor her buddies have phones, we won't know what is happening all week long. The other moms going won't be around the big girls much so I doubt that we will get frequent pictures like we did for their mission trip.
- After dropping her off, Keaton, Graham and I ran to Chick-Fil-A to pick up a few thing and then to Redbox to snag a free game rental for the boys to play with. I don't think that they played with it very long today though.
- Back at home, we started on chores and reading for the day. Soon Pops came to pick up Graham to take him shopping for his birthday. He had a list of things he needed to pick up, and they quickly found them and started working on his Christmas shopping.
- Keaton, Campbell and I baked some banana muffins right before lunch, Then we ate our lunch for a bit. I served my treadmill time until Nonna and Pops brought Graham back from his outing.
- Later, Keaton, Campbell and I ran to the store for a little bit. We picked up stuff to make Graham's birthday dessert-oreo delight. We will have to make that in a few nights so I will have time to thaw it and cut it before the party.
- After the store, Whitman and Keaton helped me make Huevos Rancheros for supper. Whitman, bless, did have 2 bathroom accidents while we were cooking so that slowed us down a good bit. I am not sure if his tummy was upset or not, but he has been fine since.
- Everyone enjoyed our supper-tortilla, black beans, salsa, an egg and cheese on top. Who wouldn't like all of that! It took us a while to clean the kitchen, and afterwards the kids headed outside to play with the neighbor.
- They stayed out late enough to need showers again before bed. We cycled everyone through the showers and then herded them all to bed.
- The normal Sunday morning scurry didn't happen too much around here. We were actually early to church this morning-oddly early. We have been barely walking in on time for the last few weeks so we were unsure of what to do with ourselves when we arrived early.
- Keaton and Reagan were the only ones that we had to wake up this morning. Everyone found their clothes without drama. I probably should say that the girls found their clothes without drama since the boys are usually drama-less. Though a few weeks ago, Anderson was trying to put Whitman's sandals on while we were driving to church and was convinced that they would not fit. I was in the front seat and was adamant that they fit last week and would fit for at least one more week. That was some definite drama!
- Whitman sat with us during church. That was different since he has been sitting with Grannymom. He did fine, but bless the poor thing, he was freezing throughout the service. The temperature in the church house was probably in the low 60s. We could probably save some of our tithe money if they cranked the air conditioning up a few degrees.
- We had lunch at Nonna's house. They had hamburgers and all of the fixings. I think that I could eat hamburgers just about every week. Graham did even have one for supper. Well, I pulled out of my leftovers for supper and said that supper would be from one of those choices. He wasn't too pleased with his choices but did scarf down a burger.
- This afternoon was fairly short. Reagan packed herself. She didn't want too much help so hopefully, she has everything that she needs. Then I had myself a little nap, but soon was awake helping Reagan finish a Jr. Ranger book. I made her do hers today while everyone else will take the rest of the week to finish theirs.
- Next even taking Reagan to a little Bible study at church. Nitzia did it and wow! They made a fruit salad, transferred vinyl onto a cute notebook and water colored a notebook that they are going to make next week. They did squeeze in a little Bible study as well. Next time they are going to decorate cookies, sew their notebook and make a tote bag. I am a wee bit jealous that I am not getting to come to the Bible study.
- While she was at church, I ran home and fed everyone supper. Then jumped back in the car to get Reagan. Once we were back at home, she had a quick camera lesson. I am not too sure what all she can learn in her photography class at camp since it will just be a few hours but man, it would be wonderful if she came home passionate about art or photography. I would love for her to find something that she is interested in.
- The kids headed to bed just as it started storming here. They must be tired because I don't hear many feet scurrying from one bed to another because of the thunder.
- Swim, Work, Rest, Swim, Supper, Bed-See, my blog could be really brief! I will elaborate a little bit. At 6:30, I woke up to go to the bathroom. As I was trying to go back to sleep, I heard little feet above me running. It could only be a few things-Campbell running to Keaton's bed where Whitman was sleeping, Whitman running to Campbell's bed, or Whitman coming downstairs. He never showed up in our room, so I went on back to sleep. Later I did find out that it was Whitman running into bed with Campbell. He was sleeping in there because Campbell did not want to go to bed in a room by herself last night so we offered Whitman to sleep with her. I guess I can't blame her since she has never slept in a room by herself-ever.
- We started stirring around 8 this morning. Well, some kiddos were stirring before then. It is nice when folks can get their own breakfasts and take care of themselves for a little bit. I guess that is nice, but I do kind of miss it!
- We did a bit of straightening around the house, which seems to be a never ending process. Then we loaded up to go to the pool. We were minus Reagan, who had spent the night at Nonna's house, and minus Keaton, who had spend the night at Grannyom's house.
- The pool wasn't crowded, and everyone had a big time. When it was time for us to leave, Campbell stayed back with the Heltz for one more hour of swimming. We ran to McDonalds for lunch, Whole Foods to get a coupon and then Dairy Queen for our weekly Blizzards. Then we picked up Campbell on the way home.
- Grannymom, Grandpa and Keaton arrived next. Grandpa helped work on Robby's outside fridge. Hopefully, they were able to fix it but we will find out in a few days. Then we had a bit of downtime until Nonna, Pops and Reagan arrived. They had taken Reagan to buy a few snacks for her upcoming camp. I had also bought a few snacks for her last night, so she will be well supplied!
- We then went back to the pool. Anderson opted to stay at home. While we were gone, he had a snack, took a shower and played on the xbox for a good long while. I think he would have enjoyed the pool, but I know that he also enjoyed being alone for a little bit.
- Robby ran an errand while we were at the pool, and then when we left, he ran into Kroger. Not only is tomorrow our anniversary, it is also National Ice Cream day so obviously, we must be prepared!
- Once at home, I heated up leftover chicken, fish, hamburger, steak and pizza, and my fridge is still bursting with leftovers. Reagan tried to do a bit of packing before bed but didn't get very far. She will have a busy day tomorrow with packing, church, a Bible study, practicing with her camera and one little school thing I need her to do before she leaves. I hope she can do all of that while I get my Sunday afternoon nap! (Kidding, well not really!)
- I would have guessed that Anderson would have slept a little bit longer today since he was the very last one to wake up yesterday. However, he was the first one awake in the house. Soon everyone else was up, except Reagan. Since Alyssa had spent the night, I tried to wake Reagan up so she could entertain her guests. When I told her that Alyssa was awake, she looked at me and said, "so?" Maybe we should work some more on hospitality.
- Whitman headed to VBS for his last day. When Robby told him that it was time to go, he said, "where?" I really don't think he had any idea where he was going. He didn't mind leaving too much since he knew that he was going to have a pizza party today at VBS.
- It was kind of different with my Whitman gone this morning but the other folks here with me. I had a committee meeting at church this morning, so I told my crew that they could stay at home or come with me and see what kind of trouble they could get into at church. Well, I shouldn't have been surprised because they picked the option that had the word "trouble" in it.
- My big 5 plus Alyssa could not wait to walk into the church house. I gave them the necessary instructions-come back in 30 minutes, stay together and this is God's House. They were back in exactly 30 minutes just as my meeting was finishing up. I let them play gaga ball while I walked to get the car.
- On the way home, I ran by the library to pick up books for school. Yep, it is time to start requesting my school books. Then we waited on Whitman to come home before making our lunches. I still have lots of camp lunch supplies left so everyone made themselves a pretty decent lunch today.
- After lunch, we loaded up to head to the pool for the afternoon. We made it there about 2 and swam with the Crafts for 2 hours. It was pretty hot out there so everyone there was in the water, but that was fine because there weren't too many folks at the pool today.
- When we left, we dropped Keaton off at Grannymom's house to spend the night. Then we ran by Dairy Queen for our weekly Blizzards. Next stop was Nonna's house because Reagan was spending the night there. Then we dropped off Alyssa and headed home.
- On my way home, Robby called and asked if they boys were going to basketball. I had forgotten all about their Friday night basketball. They were tired but enjoyed going tonight. While they were there, the rest of us, Robby, Campbell, Whitman and I, went to Eat My Catfish for supper. Robby and I both had coupons for our anniversary. (Shhh, I had forgotten that it was coming up on Sunday.) Since we both had coupons, we ordered way too much food so the boys could have supper after basketball.
- While we waited on them to finish, we hit up Kroger and their ice cream sale. We also bought some snacks for Reagan to take to camp this next week. Then we grabbed the boys and headed home. They had showers and then ate while Campbell and Whitman went outside for a few more minutes.
- Soon the neighbors had to go in, so my littles came in too. They had their showers and then we all started winding down before bedtime.
- Final day of Family Farm. I was pretty pleased with everyone awake and ready to go this morning. Robby had given the 3 minute warning when I went upstairs to open the blinds in all of the rooms. Normally, I don't do this just yet because Whitman has still been sleeping. I opened the girls blinds and then flipped on the lights in the boys room. I opened Graham's blinds and then walked to Anderson's bed to see him still sound asleep.
- I quickly urged him to get up because everyone else were putting on their shoes. That is probably not the way to wake up in the morning, but he handled it fine. He put on clothes while I grabbed his breakfast for him. I went downstairs to Robby and said that from now on we must do a headcount!
- Anderson's eyes still looked pretty sleepy as they drove off. Robby dropped the kids off at Family Farm and then came home to switch cars before heading to pick up stuff for work and then trek to Conway.
- After everyone left this morning, Whitman and I did our reading. We have had our own little quiet morning schedule this week. He may not like it tomorrow with everyone here. Shannon ran by this morning to grab a few bingo cards before her trip, and as soon as she left, Candice arrived to pick up Whitman for VBS. It was a pretty busy morning around here.
- I did my treadmill time and then some laundry, but other than that there is nothing left to do in this house. Well, nothing left that I want to do. Robby and I did discuss tonight that we have quite a bit of yard work to do before Graham's birthday party next week. I guess I could have started on that!
- Whitman made it home around 12:30. He ate his lunch while we did our school work. We had a bit of downtime, I even read, until 2ish. That is when we loaded up to head down to Family Farm. It is always so, so very hot down there, and today was no exception. We did find Campbell and Keaton's group when they were in the petting area. Then we located Graham near the sand.
- Next up was the skit time. All of the groups did their skits, and it seemed to last forever. Ooops, did I say that outloud? Nah, it wasn't that bad. Last year, Whitman, who had 2 busted ear drums, had fever during the skits and was miserable. He felt much better this time, but if it had lasted one more minute, he would have fallen sound asleep.
- Afterwards, I grabbed everyone from their groups. Graham's counselor was a stickler for the rules and gave Robby a hard time 2 of the 3 afternoons he picked up. This afternoon she had to double check to make sure that I was supposed to get Ethan. I just smiled at the silliness since I had already signed out his 2 siblings and he had left with the same group of kids each day this week.
- We hurried to drop off the Penningtons because once at home, everyone had showers. The boys left in less that 35 minute to head to Whitman's VBS' family night. The girls and I had a bit more time since we headed to Benton to see a play at the Royal.
- Robby reported that the ice cream was a hit at family night. And my girls enjoyed seeing two of the Statton girls in the play Singing in the Rain. It was a fun little play, which I had never seen before, so I will have to get the movie or see the real play sometime soon.
- Alyssa came home with us tonight so everyone is still awake at 10:30. I am about to get up and put everyone to bed along with doing the dishes and changing the laundry over since for some reason this is a two load day!
- Day 3 of Family Farm. Everyone was downstairs on time this morning. Even though Robby was up early, I was still worried about him not allotting enough time for his shower. He, however, had plenty of time and soon everyone was out the door.
- Whitman had spent the night with Grannymom and Grandpa's house. Since he wasn't there this morning, I went right to the treadmill and was finished by 9 this morning. Afterwards, I worked on making Anderson some pumpkin bread. My next project was working on my continuing education hours for the year.
- Then I ran to pick up Whitman, Charlotte and Michael. After we dropped them off, Whitman and I made his lunch. He wanted to make a "crafty" lunch which took a bit of creativity on his part since I just laid out some ingredients.
- While he ate, I read book after book to him. My library pile of books is pretty small after all of our reading today. Whitman is just an odd duck. While we were talking about America's colors, red, white and blue, he told me that Paraguay has red, white and blue as their colors too. I just looked it up-yep, they do. He also told Charlotte today about his daddy not working in the winter time so he could stay home and sled with him and make snowmen.
- Other than reading to Whitman and working on his reading book, we didn't do a whole lot this afternoon. Actually, we didn't do anything this afternoon. I have actually run out of things to do with the kids gone so much.
- We did pick up Charlotte and Michael and met the Family Farm group at the pool tonight. The Heltz were the only ones that stayed with us. We just stayed for 2 adult swims, and then picked up BBQ. We ate at the Heltz' while the kids ran around outside.
- Once we made it home, it was shower time, lunch packing time and then the best time of the day-bedtime!
- Family Farm day two. I had to walk up the steps to make sure that the boys were up this morning. They were moving really slowly getting out of their beds, but they were awake.
- Even though Robby left later this morning with everyone, they still had less time in the morning than yesterday.
- Once they left, I decided that I would let Whitman sleep so more before waking him up. However, he soon was bouncing down the stairs. I read him a few stories before he put on his clothes and ate his breakfast. Without his brothers and sisters here, I ended up playing a short game of "The Floor is Lava" before it was time for us to leave to VBS.
- We picked up Charlotte and then headed to VBS. Once I dropped them off, I ran by Grannymom's for a little bit to drop off Whitman's bag since he is spending the night over there. My next stop was the library followed by home.
- My morning was busy: finishing the school room, working on some of Whitman's school, cleaning the bathrooms, the treadmill, organizing a few shelves, and eating lunch. This afternoon was a bit slower. I was going to make pumpkin bread but when I counted my eggs I didn't have enough for my Huevos Rancheros that I was going to make for supper along with the pumpkin bread. Then I decided to make apple crisp, but I didn't have pans that I could freeze it in.
- Robby and the kids arrived home, excited about their day. Graham was also excited about going to ChickFilA for the dress like a cow day. So I put up all of my supper stuff and started on making spots to turn the kiddos into cows. Anderson and Reagan opted to stay home even though Robby told them that there would no internet at home. I think that just need to decompress after so much activity.
- We ran into Jason at ChickFilA and ate with him. Then we did go to the store to pick up a few things-especially eggs so I can make my bread tomorrow but since we didn't make tonight supper, then I still had plenty. (I am determined to make this new recipe though.) Once at home, Graham, Campbell and Keaton joined Anderson who was outside playing with the neighbors and Reagan soon went out as well.
- We called them in eventually for showers and to make their lunches. They did all of this and then had a few minutes of downtime before bed. So you know your children are tired when they start crying because you won't let them do any school work (Campbell), because you ask them to put on a t shirt (Keaton), and because you won't let them eat a banana from the grocery store without paying (Campbell). Goodness gracious!
- I woke up to the sounds of people's feet above my head. Thankfully, it wasn't in the middle of the night, and my alarm was about to go off as well. It is Family Farm week, and my people were all very excited.
- By the time I had my clothes on and teeth brushed, Campbell and Keaton were downstairs working on their hair. Everyone had grabbed their breakfast and soon I was bug spraying everyone as they walked out the door.
- They picked up the others and then headed to Malvern. This left me in the empty house with a sleeping Whitman. I let him sleep for a bit and then brought him downstairs. I read him a few books as he was waking up. Then he put on his clothes and ate his breakfast.
- Soon Whitman was in the car heading to VBS. Bless, I don't think that he understood where he was going, but I did make it very clear that Ms. Candice was going to pick him up. We found his row, and he sat right down.
- I ran to Walmart to buy some bar stools for the girls new school desks. I had originally planned to also go to the library, but since my driver's license, credit cards and most importantly library card was in my van in Malvern, I had to skip the library. Luckily, I had realized this before I left the house and grabbed a credit card for my Walmart run. I was just crossing my fingers that it still worked!
- I am rarely home by myself for any length of time. I quickly realized that I have some type of ADD when it comes to do anything in a quiet house. While bringing in my Walmart bags, I ended up in the attic organizing Christmas stuff. While taking the stools to the school room, I organized the pantry. I did accomplish quite a bit, but I almost didn't get around to my main goal.
- The goal this week, which I will finish tomorrow, is organizing the school room. When I did start, I just wanted to do one side of the room before lunch, but I was almost able to finish two sides of the room.
- When Candice brought Whitman home, he was quite chatty. He talked and talked and bless, talked some more. He went with me to the school room as I finished the second wall and then the third side of the room. I was going to stop there, but he wanted to "decorate" his desk so I set him to work vacuuming.
- After we "decorated" his desk, we pulled his lunch out of the fridge. He really enjoyed packing his lunch last night, and worked on eating his lunch for at least 3 hours today. I stopped him in the middle to do his reading book. While we were doing his reading book, he told me, "this is the best day over, just me and you." I agreed and then he elaborated with, "when the others are here, they get in trouble and you and Daddy yell." I am not so sure about "yelling" but yes, it is definitely quieter with just two people here.
- Robby brought the campers home a bit after 5. They soon found the neighbors and mostly stayed outside until we made them come in to eat supper. After supper, everyone went back out for a bit. Campbell and Keaton stayed out the longest and eventually had to be called in. Anderson didn't stay outside for long at all today. He is one that just needs a bit of downtime after an exciting day.
- Once in for the night, the kids made their lunches for tomorrow. Whitman even packed his lunch for tomorrow even though I tried to explain that Grannymom was going to pick him up from VBS. He told me that he could just bring it, so I guess that we will.
- At bedtime, I ran to Shannon's house to help her pack for a bit while Robby put the kiddos to bed. I think that they were all pretty tired tonight, and tomorrow is another early, early day.
- Campbell was by my bed at 3 this morning telling me that Keaton was sick upstairs. Sometimes in the middle of the night, I will lay in bed for 30 minutes trying to wake up enough to walk to the bathroom. However, this morning, and every other time someone, mainly Keaton, is sick, I just right up and hustle up the stairs.
- She did make it to the bathroom floor so for that I am thankful. Thought the last few times she has been sick at home, she does just stand there over it until I get there. Now last time, she had pinned herself in and couldn't move without getting messy. Last night however, she could have moved, but didn't which tickled me more than it should have at 3 am.
- Keaton must not have felt too bad because after a bit of sitting by the potty, she was ready to go downstairs. It took me a minute to clean up, but soon as I was making her a pallet by our bed. I then had to get her a towel and bag, just in case, along with some water and go to the bathroom myself. Then it took Keaton and me a while to go to sleep since Robby was snoring a bit. He never even heard all of the commotion last night.
- Keaton slept well and felt fine when she woke up. We did have to scurry a bit this morning to make it to the church house on time. I think I am really looking forward to promotion Sunday when the schedule changes at church and we have an extra 15 minutes until church starts.
- After church, we headed to Grannymom's house for lunch. She had oreo delight for dessert, which is the dessert which Graham has picked out for his birthday party dessert. The kids played outside, but then also headed to Dana's house to see her puppies.
- We picked everyone up from her house and then drove home. It was raining by the time we made it home. We briefly cleaned out the car to get it ready for tomorrow's drove to Family Farm. I tried my best to hurry everyone along because I sure wanted to take my nap while the rain was beating upon the roof.
- I don't think I made it though, but I still did get a nap. We pretty much cleaned out the fridge for supper tonight. Everyone had plenty and I did clean out some of my fridge leftovers which was good.
- Once supper was over, everyone packed their lunches for tomorrow. Even Whitman packed a lunch so he still felt like everyone else. He will be gone in the morning as well for VBS at Immanuel. He will love it, but he is turning into a homebody and asks me each day if this is a stay at home day.
- Some folks had showers tonight. Everyone joined us for watching a tv show before bed. Then it was finally bedtime for the crew. They have an early morning along with a very busy week!
- Robby and I were up early this morning-early for us on any day of the week but especially early on a Saturday. I was afraid that no one would be awake when we left the house, but by the time that we left, Anderson was awake.
- Soon Whitman came down the stairs. He said that he wanted to take a nap with me so I jumped back in bed for a second. I did get him out of my bed by offering breakfast. I poured his milk, and then Robby, who was on the other side of the house, said that it was time to leave. By this time, Whitman had decided on waffles so I handed Anderson the box of waffles as I walked out the door.
- When I returned, Whitman was sitting at the bar still eating his waffles that his big brother had made for him. There was a new Dollar General down the road, and since this was the grand opening, Robby and I went.
- They were handing out 10 dollar gift cards to the first 50 in line. Robby and I were probably about 46th and 47th in line. We used Robby's gift card today plus a 5 off of 25 coupon so we spent about 10 bucks for 25 dollars worth of goodies. We will go back and do the same thing with my gift card and another coupon later.
- I had even had a dream about the Dollar General grand opening except that they were giving away cinnamon rolls. In my dream, I watched a man stumble over chair after chair carrying away a huge tray of cinnamon rolls. They didn't have cinnamon rolls there today but they did have Little Debbies and some cokes. I think I would have liked cinnamon rolls better.
- Back at home, after I emptied the dishwasher, I went outside to help Robby with the garage. We worked out there for quite a long while, The garage is really a never ending process. We also did a bit of bike repair on Keaton and Campbell's bikes. They came out and joined us for a bit and were quick to ride their bikes around as well.
- Robby owed Graham a movie from the Super Bowl so today was the day that he cashed in on it. They went to a movie around lunch. While they were gone, Keaton, Campbell and I made cookies. I also tried to clean the grout on my bar but it didn't work as well as I had planned. My kitchen smells like bleach but it doesn't look like bleach has been scrubbed on the countertops though.
- Once Graham came home, I put him back in the car along with Anderson to meet Cash to ride go-carts. Then they met us at the pool. This has been a busy day for Graham who said that he was exhausted first thing this morning. The big boys actually ended up spending the night at Cash's house tonight so I know that he really will be exhausted!
- Everyone had lots of fun at the pool. The girls, except for Reagan, could have stayed longer. It was fairly windy tonight so it was coolish-much too cool for Robby or I to swim. This greatly disappointed Whitman because he wanted to practice!
- After we dropped off the boys, we headed to David's Burgers. I don't remember that last time that we ate out there. When we lived on Gamble, we ate out a lot, but we don't eat out that much anymore. We do have quite a few pizza mystery shops, but there isn't a lot of going out to eat except for when we are on a trip. I thought my burger and fries were excellent tonight. The lady even gave the kids ice cream cones and Robby and I little samples. Our samples had tiny little spoons which the girls thought were the cutest things ever.
- Once at home, the girls were delighted to see that Mr, Tony had left a surprise toy at our house. I believe that he was cleaning out his garage. When Whitman saw it, he exclaimed, "Oh my!" Everyone had a few rides on the driveway tonight. I may have taken more than my fair share of turns-which is quite obvious to me now since my legs are already sore!
- When everyone came inside, we started on our showers for the evening. It didn't take long at all to run through them with two less kiddos. Campbell and Whitman passed out the cookies that we had made today while the laundry washed and we listened to fireworks all around us (people still think it is the 4th out here).
- The boys went walking with Robby this morning. Graham only made it around one time before he went in because his knee was bothering him. Now, his knee didn't seem to bother him any other time today.
- Keaton was the last one awake today. It was nearly 10:30 when she showed up downstairs. When Reagan came down before her, I started to worry that Keaton might be feeling a bit under the weather. Instead, she was just very well rested when she awoke.
- This morning was filled with chores, a Jr. Ranger book, Whitman's school, reading, and a few math problems. Now, when we spend most of the morning leisurely doing these things, I start to wonder how we are able to fit a full days worth of school into the morning. I do realize that I am going to need to start waking up a lot earlier this year. It will be a bit tough to get in seventh grade and kindergarten.
- Right before 12, we loaded up and headed to the pool for two hours. Our buddies were leaving at 2 so we just stayed 2 hours. That really is plenty for me, but it almost seems wasteful not to stay longer since you work so hard to get there and unload from it.
- Whitman practiced on his swimming again today. One minute I will think that he has it and the very next minute I am convinced that he will never learn how to swim. His "swimming" right now is very entertaining. He dives down to the bottom of the pool, then pushes himself up with his hands (it is just the 4 foot section) and then does it again and again. The only way for him to understand that won't work is to play "the floor is lava" and then he was able to swim a bit better.
- After the pool, we went to Dairy Queen. Today was my first day to drive through for our blizzards. It was incredibly easy, and I'll probably be doing that from now on....but we do know everyone inside the restaurant, and they know us.
- From there, we came home and unloaded the car. I ran on the treadmill and while I was upstairs the neighbors all came out so the kids spent a good amount of time playing outside. The boys had to be called in when it was time to head to their basketball practice.
- Robby took them and then ran to Kroger. My chicken spaghetti was in the oven for tonight's supper with the Wilson's and the green beans were on the stove. I was sitting looking at a magazine talking to Whitman when the lights went out.
- I didn't do anything at first, but then I did put the beans in the warm oven. The Wilsons were soon over, and Tony fired up the grill to cook their bread. Robby had just left the store when the boys called. Their power was out so Robby ran to pick them up.
- We ate supper-the food was still warm and the bread was grilled to perfection. Then Robby hooked up the generator so we could have some lights and fans for the evening. We started upstairs in the bonus room where the generator power is easiest to get to, but soon had to move the party and the cords to the living room.
- The evening was so fun. I am not sure that Robby thought it was as fun as I did, but the kids will never forget it. We all hung out upstairs while they played games. They even did a bit of hide n seek in the dark upstairs. Later, everyone moved to downstairs. Tony even played the guitar while Whitman danced. It was just a good evening.
- When the Wilson's left, we got the kids settled in downstairs with fans blowing on them. Robby plugged up the fridge inside and refilled the generator with gas. We were just walking down the hallway to our room when "pop" on goes the lights.
- We moved the kids back upstairs. Then Robby picked up the outside stuff while I tried to work on the inside stuff. There were blankets, sleeping bags, flashlights, miles of extension cords, fans, and plenty of other things to pick up! It didn't take too long and the rest we will do in the morning.
- Robby was just about to get in the shower after all of this but saw a huge spider. He killed it with a shoe, and then noticed many, many tiny spiders crawling around everywhere. I grabbed the bug spray, and he went to town spraying. It was quite an adventure as well!
- The house is cool again and spider free right now! And since we have already had ice cream, I guess that it is time for bed!
- Even though I stayed in bed as long as I could, Campbell and Whitman joined me trying to get me up. Campbell needed help with the computer, and Whitman needed someone to pour him some milk. I suggested his big brothers to help with his milk, but they were upstairs.
- The morning wasn't too eventful. The kids worked on their Jr. Ranger books. They did some reading or at least, I hope that they did some reading.
- While I was on the treadmill, I am pretty sure that nothing productive happened. When I finished, it was then chore time. It didn't take long for everyone to finish their list. Then we worked on making our lunches. We have a ton of lunch meat leftover from the lake. However, try as I might, I can't give it away! I only had one taker at lunch today. They made paninis, spaghetti, grilled cheese but practically nothing with lunch meat!
- When lunch was finished, Whitman and I worked on riding his bike for just a few minutes. It was too hot to work too long. Then the Heltz girls came over to play for the afternoon. I pretty quickly kicked them out of the house since Robby was on a phone call.
- They all played outside for most of the time. The neighbors came down along with a 5 year old boy they are babysitting. Whitman enjoyed meeting and playing with a new buddy. The others played kickball, shot fireworks, played tether ball and hung around outside all afternoon. I did let them get popsicles and passed out 1 oreo per person. Yes, just one oreo since I didn't want to have to open another package!
- Candice came and picked up her crew around supper time. When they left, we picked up, and soon afterwards Robby had our supper heated up-leftover pizza. We ate and then the kids started running through the showers.
- After Whitman's shower, he told me that he almost "pooped in the shower, but I sucked it back up." I encouraged him to sit on the potty for a bit. Afterwards, I flushed and as he watched it, he started shouting, "Oh no, oh no, it doesn't fit!" and yes, we had to flush twice.
- Once everyone was through we their showers, we watched a little bit of the Bates before sending everyone off to bed.
- Graham was ready to go walking this morning. He was in our room around 7:30 asking when they were going to go. I reminded him that this was a holiday! By then though we were awake so Anderson, Graham and Robby soon headed on their walk. I did the laundry and dishes while they were gone.
- When they arrived home, Robby took the girls for their go around. Surprisingly, Robby said that Campbell complained the least of everyone. However, when they walked in, her face was bright red matching the color of Robby's shirt.
- I had already told Whitman that he would go on his walk later in the day, but when Robby came in with the girls, he told Whitman to put on his shoes. He wasn't too thrilled about going and told us that he just wanted to go on a short walk. Campbell walked with them, and they were all rewarded with popsicles after their walk.
- When they came in, everyone loaded up to go to the pool for the afternoon. The Heltz and Kamps were there. The kids swam until lunch time. They had hot dogs, chips and lots of desserts. Everyone had plenty. The kids just love the picnic at the pool.
- Robby and I even got in the pool a little bit today. He let Whitman swim some. That boy goes so deep in that pool that he wastes all of his energy doing that. I am beginning to think he will ever get it!
- We stayed until 3 and then headed to Grannymom's house for a little bit. Robby worked on some pictures while we played dominoes, Candy Land and even started another game. From there, we headed home for dry clothes.
- After my shower, I sat down on the couch with Whitman to do his reading book. Then I showed him a movie on the ipad and snoozed during the entire show. It was the best sleep ever, but when I woke up, it was time to leave.
- We then headed over to the Wilson's house for supper and fireworks. Their neighbor and Tony had both made some meat and Shannon had a ton of dips. There were plenty of desserts, and everyone was stuffed when we started the Baggo tournament outside.
- Keaton was on my team with their neighbor lady. We did decent-now, we could have done much better but we could have done much worse. Reagan and Graham lost to Brett and Layne in the finals.
- After the tournament, it was time for fireworks and homemade ice cream. The fireworks were good but by the end, the kids were playing in the yard barely glancing up at the fireworks. They all fun though. It was after 11 when we made it home, so it was showers and bedtime!
- I try to never miss an opportunity with the kids to instruct them about something. We are currently listening to a book on tape where the neighbor is an alcoholic, and it is destroying his family and life. That isn't the main part of the book, but it is in there. So yesterday on the way home, I stopped the tape and once again discussed the benefits of alcohol (few), the dangers of alcohol (many), our view on it and the Bible's view on alcohol. Since I have a wide range of ages, I am sure that my littles hear more than they need, but my bigs need to hear this stuff now. All of that to say, I realized that even Whitman is intently listening because tonight as he was holding his drink, he said, "Let's just pretend I am drinking alcohol."
- There wasn't walking this morning because Robby had to scurry off to a dentist appointment. He was less than thrilled to be having a root canal, but also a bit thrilled because hopefully this will help his constant tooth pain which has been nagging him for a year or more. (And if you are keeping track of our no-spend month that would be air conditioner repair, root canal, and filling up both cars with gas in two days! We possibly should have "spend month," and maybe we wouldn't spend anything.)
- My morning didn't start off great. I put my contacts in and kept having trouble seeing. I would struggle to see anything. The clock, my phone, far or close, it didn't matter. I would have to really focus to read anything. I was convinced that my eyesight had just become poor overnight. They say that happens when you turn 40. I was getting a bit bummed, but I was about ready to call the eye doctor. I decided to take them out and try another pair. When I did, I realized that I had two pairs of contacts in. Yep, I forgot to take them out last night and put my new pair right on top. I was extremely relieved!
- Early this morning the girls wrote about going to the pool. I still had 4 people asleep at the time so we didn't make it to the pool until after 11. My big 3 weren't crazy about going to the pool, but I didn't give them much of a choice. (We are going to to the pool tomorrow too so they will probably love that as well!)
- Reagan was the last one awake this morning and was just able to do her math before we left. She was actually still making her lunch while the rest of us were sitting in the car waiting to leave.
- The pool was pretty full this morning. The kids all had fun though despite the crowd. Whitman constantly wants for me to swim with him so he can take off his life jacket. He is fairly close to getting the swimming thing, but gracious he scares me. I swam with him a little bit today, but the last hour, I always want to dry off and not get wet.
- On the way home, we ran by Dairy Queen. Reagan and Anderson ordered the new blizzard-a cherry blizzard with soft serve ice cream and a star popsicle on top. It looked really pretty, but I don't think either one of them were very crazy about the blizzard part of it.
- The kids finished their chores and put on dry clothes when we came home. At one point in the afternoon one neighbor was out so the girls and Graham played with him. Then the other neighbors came out for just a little bit, and they played with them. I was in the bonus room for most of this. For the first part, I was finishing a puzzle upstairs. I did finish it but am missing the very last piece. I have looked everywhere. Then I did do some treadmill time while the kids were still outside.
- Robby came home with supper, and everyone ate. Campbell helped me make some cookies tonight. She was anxious to get in the kitchen since Keaton had made chocolate dipped Oreos and decorated them for the 4th earlier today.
- After the kids' showers, we settled in to watch a tv show and eat a few cookies. The Wilson fam came over with Sonic shakes for all of us. This caused much delight at our house. Soon the living room was littered with empty Sonic cups. Whitman was too engrossed in his movies so he didn't even try his. I worked on some of it and then Robby finished it off. It was a perfect treat to our day.
