- I think that Thursdays are one of my very favorite days o the week. There is nothing really different about Thursdays than any other day of the week. However, it is almost Friday which is almost the weekend which really makes me happy.
- I had to wake up all of the girls and Anderson this morning. I think that he is turning into a teenage boy because he has been sleeping more and harder to wake up each morning. This place will sure change around here when Graham starts sleeping more!
- We did our school work this morning. Whitman was one of the last ones finished this morning. He didn't seem to care and spent at least 45 minutes this morning wrapped up in a blanket laying in the floor. This, of course, caused me to ask him if his tummy hurt and to check his forehead each time I walked by. He was just "taking a break."
- It was still 12:45 when we ate our lunch. I intend to eat around 12:15. That would ideally give me to time to finish up school at 12, and then have a few minutes to regroup. However, that rarely happens. I will admit that I was fairly distracted a bit this morning with a few text strings blowing up my phone.
- We ate our lunch, and as I cleaned the kitchen, Campbell worked on cooking our meat for tonight's quesadillas. Then we started on our afternoon reading. It sometimes seems like a bit much but we are nearing the end of our science book and only have about 100 more pages of our history book to read. (In case you are wondering, that leaves me about 4 pages to read a day which is still a lot.)
- One of the text strings this morning was about an impromptu meeting at Third Realm. Yep, we have been there 4 times this week. Keaton did wear out this afternoon, and Graham's ankle was giving him problems. However, they all still were jumping as hard as they could at the end of the hour. In 15 days, we have been to jump 13 times. That isn't too bad.
- On the way there and back we listened to our book. We are listening to Wonder, and it is so very good. I love listening to books in the car because everyone is so quiet on the entire ride. Once at home, we had a few minutes before Robby and I started on supper.
- Supper was a hit tonight-quesadillas without refried beans. Robby and I like refried beans in our quesadillas, but the kids do not. We don't really care, but unfortunately, tonight we were out of beans so they were pleased! Afterwards, it was time for showers and a little bit of tv watching this evening.
- My boys were all up this morning, but I had to wake up the girls. They were sound asleep in their cozy little room. It didn't take too long before everyone was ready, and we started work on emptying our trash cans and folding the laundry. Of course we had to get that laundry folded because we needed to find those silly Third Realm socks.
- During the middle of CBS, Robby came to pick up Keaton. She had a doctor's appointment for her excema study. They gave her new medicine today so hopefully it will do a wonderful job on her little arms. They are looking pretty rough right now-not their worst but pretty bad.
- After her appointment, he brought her to meet the rest of us at Third Realm. All of the buddies were there today so the kids had a good time. Gracious they jump the entire time. By the time that we left, Graham was so incredibly sweaty!
- The Heltz came home with us for a little bit. The kids started playing outside but soon all ended up inside. Whitman could have cared less about playing with his friend that was here today. I think that we will need to work with him a bit on being more social. They did read a few books with me.
- Once they left, the kids spotted the neighbors outside so they all went out. Of course we never ever see our neighbors except for times when we are about to leave. The kids had about 30 minutes outside before it was time for me to call them in to eat our supper.
- We stopped by the library on the way to church. I still love my Wednesday bagels and my Wednesday library stops. Then we fought the traffic and headed on to church. The evening went by fairly quickly and soon I was gathering the kids from the playground.
- Once we made it home, Robby had popcorn for the kids. They ate and then we watched a bit of Family Feud before bedtime.
- Tuesday mornings do go much more smoothly than Monday mornings usually, and today was no different than usual. As you read last night, I did have Anderson start on his real work first thing this morning. However, he ended up in the living room where Reagan and Graham do their work. So today at 10:30, he still hadn't really finished anything of any merit plus hadn't finished any of his "fun" things.
- Graham was in a foul mood also. Mainly because he was doing something wrong, and I corrected him. I know, can you imagine that I am so horrible? Things just went from bad to worse when it came time to work on his math and correct it...just like we do each day.
- Things did calm down a bit before lunch. I read while everyone ate their lunches today. Today's menu was a bit less complicated-half of the folks had grilled cheese and the other half had egg in the hole. Now please don't think that I made any of this. I did flip a few sandwiches and flip a few eggs for some, but mostly I don't do a thing to make lunches. I do make sure that Whitman does have a lunch, but usually his sisters fight each other to make his lunch.
- After lunch, we worked on chores for a little bit while Anderson worked on his school work. We did our afternoon reading. Today we were reading about George Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. So while I was reading about it, in the background I had google playing it. I am not a big google user, but things like that are pretty cool.
- We again met some of our friends at Third Realm today. I know it seems crazy to go so much, but it at least gets my people off of their devices for an hour and a half each afternoon. The neighbor isn't home yet when we leave, and the other neighbors are never outside anymore so the kids aren't missing anything here at home.
- Before we did leave today, we did cut the La Ropa out front. I had the kids help me which made it go so quickly. Of course the girls were fussing over who could do the last plant. I wouldn't have done any if I would have known that they enjoyed doing it so much. I hope that I am not too late on trimming those plants back. I haven't killed them yet so they must be pretty hardy.
- Once we made it back home this evening, Robby was soon home. We heated up some potatoes and topped them with our leftover bbq. Well, most of the kids didn't use any bbq in their potatoes. I did decide that if they would let me fix their potatoes they would enjoy them a whole lot more. Seriously, my potato topped with salsa, bbq meat, bbq sauce, sour cream, and black beans was sure a lot more yummy than theirs with just some cheese on top.
- The excitement tonight was packing lunches for tomorrow. Seriously, I am not sure what Campbell and Keaton did in the kitchen for so long, but they took forever to make their lunch. I am very intrigued to see what all they stuck in their lunches.
- We watched a few shows and even finished the evening watching a bit of the Hogs play. Then it was bedtime for the crew-tomorrow will be a full day of church, jumping, and then church again.
- Monday morning school days can be a bit depressing, but everyone was excited to sit down on the couch that is now in the bedroom. I guess if I were to put a new piece of furniture in the bedroom every week, school, or at least the start of school. would be a bit more exciting.
- Two people started our morning reading time off on the couch and two started off in my bed. I usually don't let people on my bed in the mornings because I know what will (and did) happen. After so much, I could take no more so the folks on the bed were kicked onto the floor. Seconds afterwards, the two on the couch also had to move to the floor.
- School went fairly well. Anderson usually takes the longest time to get his work done. He starts with all of his "fun" things and leaves the harder stuff to the last. This makes me crazy and tomorrow it has been strongly suggested to him that he start on the hard stuff first.
- Surprisingly, everyone did finish a few minutes before noon. That gave me a few minutes to catch my breath before we started on our lunches. For lunch, folks had eggs (made on the skillet and in the microwave), quesadillas, paninis and there was even one snacky lunch made. By the time that lunch is over, the kitchen is trashed, and I usually have a longer grocery list than when we started.
- After lunch, we worked on our chores followed by some afternoon reading. I had a few minutes to clean the potties. I usually let the kids clean them, but I thought that maybe they should get a little better cleaning this week.
- Then it was time to load up and head to PE (Third Realm). All of our buddies were there today so everyone had lots of fun. Whitman delighted in making a tower with the foam blocks this afternoon. They all had lots of fun and were pretty sweaty when we left.
- Once we made it home, I ran with Robby to pick up supper for everyone. We brought home BBQ from a new place. It was okay, but not wonderful. The sauce was super spicy. I was even able to use my Valentine's Tums!
- This evening everyone had showers. Then we all huddled in the living room to watch a few tv shows before bedtime. It was a pretty long evening-long enough that no one even mentioned going to bed a few minutes earlier than usual.
- Since Anderson had a good bit of fever yesterday, Robby took him to Grannymom's house this morning while the rest of us headed to church. He spent a quiet morning over there until everyone was finished with church.
- He is actually feeling a good bit better today. I have not taken his temperature but every time that I touch him, he doesn't feel feverish. Keaton did tell me this morning that her throat hurt, but she hasn't acted like it has at all today. Robby is slowly getting back to normal but he is definitely not there yet. I don't believe that I have heard Reagan cough today, but Campbell and Whitman are still coughing a bit.
- Today during Sunday school, we didn't have to teach, but instead had lots of pastries and a brief meeting. It was nice to have a little bit of a break from teaching. I know that we have only been teaching for a year now, but I am really wavering if I am going to teach next year.
- After church, we hustled to Dana's house to celebrate Grannymom's 75th birthday. Dana had made chili which was delicious. Then we all sang to Grannymom before cutting the cake. The kids enjoyed playing outside, and this was one of the first few days in a long time that they were able to do that.
- Once it was time to leave, we took home the cake but we also took home Dana's couch. She is buying a new one and gave her old one to us. Robby put it on the trailer to get home and had no problem at all.
- Of course we had to get it in the house which wasn't a problem. We quickly switched out couches in the living room. Our couch in the living room is comfy and well worn, and Dana's looks brand new. Robby did say that hers probably won't stay pretty very long. I will have to really monitor the kids until everyone has learned not to touch the couch!
- The most difficult part was moving our old couch into our bedroom. We first had to move the piano out of the way so we could get the couch into the kitchen. Then it wasn't too difficult. Of course, after the couch was in the bedroom, Robby then had to move the tv cabinet over.
- The tv cabinet in our bedroom is massive which is a good thing (it holds lots of stuff) but it is also a bad thing (it takes up a lot of room). We will have to figure out exactly where everything will now go in our bedroom after adding the couch. Most of the things that I will have to move are my piles of school stuff that we work through every morning.
- We still had time for our Sunday afternoon nap. I did have to get up to take Reagan to her life group. I do think that she enjoys going to her life group even though there are mostly high schoolers there. As we drove up, there were quite a few high school boys walking in, and I did make sure to remind Alyssa and Reagan to stay away from those boys.
- While she was gone, I helped the others find their supper. There was also time to play two rounds of Uno with the girls and Whitman. He actually only lasted for one round-he did win the first one and was quick to head out.
- I baked cookies for a snack tonight. They were from the freezer so I didn't work too hard which was a good thing. Reagan didn't eat them because they were peanut butter. Anderson didn't eat them because they were too gooey. Whitman didn't eat them because he didn't want to leave his ipad. Keaton and Graham only ate one cookie so basically I wasted my time!
- I did have everyone go upstairs early tonight so they could work on their bedrooms. They had gotten a bit trashed this weekend. They did go to bed with a decently straight bedroom, too bad I can't say that about the rest of the house!
- It was a rainy Saturday morning which we took full advantage of. The girls helped me in the kitchen some. Campbell was planning on making some fudge. It didn't take too long for her to realize that we didn't have all of the ingredients. She became pretty sour at this even though we were still baking and even had a trip planned back to the grocery store later today.
- Yes, it had been at least a full week since we had been to the grocery store so we felt like we should go today to make up for missing so many grocery shopping opportunities. Actually, we needed cheese, more butter, Campbell's chocolate chips and of course we couldn't resist the Valentine's day candy that was on sale.
- Before we did head to the grocery store, Jason and Pops brought Anderson home. He had lots of fun at Pops' house even though I don't think that he felt that great. Tonight he actually had a pretty good fever. He doesn't have any thing else wrong other than his lingering cough. Hopefully, after a good dose of medicine he can sleep well tonight and feel better tomorrow.
- Around 1, Graham, Robby and I loaded up to run to Dairy Queen for our weekly burgers. That is when we also stopped into the store. Graham was ready to get back to the house and wasn't a willing grocery shopping participant. He was pleased with himself when I let him throw two boxes of Jello in the cart.
- I finally finished up my baking this afternoon in time to sit down for a few minutes. Then we loaded up with my jumpers-Whitman, Keaton, Campbell and Graham. Saturday night's are probably not the time to go Third Realm because the crowd is pretty rough. There was a even a little kid fist fight!
- Once at home, everyone had their showers while Robby made supper. Graham had requested bow tie pasta while we were at the store so that is what we had. After supper, the kids put away their laundry before settling in to play on their ipads for a little bit. It was a pretty quiet evening.
- Before bed we did enjoy watching Whitman play PacMan on the tv. I am not sure if he knows how to turn so he just goes in a straight line the entire time with Robby and I yelling "turn! turn!" at him. It was pretty entertaining-I am not sure why I kept watching because it never took too long before he was eaten by one of those little ghosts since he continually went in a straight line.
- I was sleeping so well this morning when my alarm clock went off. I did hit snooze for a bit too long. Soon we were all in my bedroom with everyone eating their breakfast. Just a few folks chose cinnamon rolls so that was good for me because there might just be leftovers for me to have tonight.
- By 11:30 this morning, everyone but Anderson were finished with their school, and he was finishing up. We ate our lunch and were soon headed to Third Realm. It was time for PE. Ha! Actually, it was socialization time since all of our friends were there.
- The kids enjoyed jumping this afternoon. Now, everyone is not up to par just yet. So they would often take a few breaks while jumping.
- Since I mentioned it, here is the Dennie family sickness rundown for the day. And yes, unfortunately, I think that some of my folks aren't feeling as well as they were the other day.
- Robby-good but still coughing
- Tara-good
- Reagan-good but some coughing
- Anderson-coughing, headache, possibly some fever today
- Graham-stomach ache but good
- Campbell-coughing like she smokes a few packs a day
- Keaton-good
- Whitman-runny nose, congestion but no fever. I have even taken his temp a few times today thinking that he did have fever.
- When we left the jumpy place, we dropped Anderson off at Nonna and Pops' house. He was spending the night over there. He went to basketball tonight. Afterwards, they went to eat at Corkys. Once they came back home, Anderson and Jason went to town working on a Lego project.
- During the afternoon here, I pulled out school for next week. It seems like I do that pretty often-every Friday. Then we loaded up to take Graham to basketball. Campbell and Keaton went with us while Reagan and Whitman stayed at home.
- While the boys were at basketball, we spend the entire time shopping. We bought so much that we filled 2 buggies after they had bagged our groceries. The girls enjoyed helping us shop because they enjoyed filling the buggy with what they wanted. Afterwards we ran by Subway for supper to take home and then picked up Graham.
- Once we came home, everyone helped unload the car, then we ate our supper. We watched a few shows tonight and while we did that Campbell worked on one of her Legos from Christmas. Anderson was also at Nonna's house working on a Lego set. We let everyone stay up late tonight so we were able to watch quite a few shows.
- It would have been a perfect day to sleep in due to the weather, and I do believe that is what all of the kids except Graham and Whitman were planning on doing this morning. I had to wake everyone else up. When it is dark and dreary outside, the girls' bedroom is so cozy and dark that they never want to get up. It took quite a bit of me calling upstairs to finally get them to come down the stairs.
- During the kids' breakfasts we did our morning reading. Then everyone started on their individual work.
- Now, there was a bit of drama. Campbell decided that she didn't have time to work with me this morning when I asked her. She actually told me no and started having herself a fit when I said that we were going to work together right then. She cried saying that she would never finish her school if she worked with me then. (Interesting because to finish her school she would have to work with me at some point.) So I just sent her on to her room for 20 minutes to lay in her bed. I figured that if racing through her school work was that important for her, then she needed to slow down some.
- She did come back down a much happier child which made me a much happier mother. Other than that school went pretty well. Now, Whitman did have his write to 100 page again in math. I think that tomorrow is the last day of that. Oh, and Whitman always has 2 phonics pages but somehow one of them, which was in my room with his other papers, disappeared. I have no idea where it went. I don't think that he hid it somewhere (Graham used to do that-I would find papers everywhere!), but I know that it will eventually turn up plus I now know that I might need to watch him a bit more closely!
- We had our lunch, followed by chores and then some more reading. After we read, there was just a little bit of time before we loaded up to go to Third Realm. It was kind of weird today because we were the only people in the place for the first 30 minutes. When we walked in, Keaton even asked if the place was open.
- When there aren't too many folks there, the kids want me to watch and push and judge which is fine. That does make the time go by really quickly and before I knew it, we were loading up to head to Nonna and Pops' house.
- Robby had bought me a cinnamon roll class at Pulaski Tech for my birthday. It was so much fun. The instructor made the cinnamon rolls as we watched, and then we went to our stations and made them ourselves. Eeek!
- The first part was easy but I was a bit nervous when it came time to roll out my dough. Usually, rolling out dough is Robby's job at the house. The nice lady watched and helped me! Then we rolled up our dough and cut those cinnamon rolls.
- There was a lot of waiting around in the class while the dough rose two different times and while the rolls baked. That was fine though because the instructor talked some, and we enjoyed listening to the other people as well. While we waited, we also ate some sticky buns that she had made during class. They were indeed delicious-like I could have eaten more or smuggled the extra pan out in my pants!
- When the class was over, we each left with a dozen cinnamon rolls plus the recipe to make more. Now, we had been making Pioneer Woman's cinnamon rolls which have been very good, but I do believe that these are going to be even better and even easier.
- We headed back to Nonna's house after boxing up the cinnamon rolls. Of course we had to sample one or two or a dozen with Nonna, Pops, Jason and the kids. I do believe that everyone gave them two thumbs up. Now, Robby did admit that the cream cheese icing is probably not his absolute favorite so we will have to make some with regular icing the next batch.
- Once at home, the kids had their showers and then it was time for bed. It was a super perfect day and everyone continues to improve. I do think that none of my sick kiddos are 100 percent yet and Graham has even been having some stomach issues so gracious me. I am going to go and get some more vitamin C before bed!
- Dennie family sickness update: I think that most everyone is on the mend. Robby, Reagan, Anderson, Campbell and Whitman are all coughing. We did keep Whitman home all day today, but we don't think that he had fever today.
- Everyone but Whitman and Reagan went to Bible study this morning. Reagan's teachers were pretty worried about her and so were Whitman's teachers. Reagan was sure that she would get a note in the mail from her teachers. I know that I have said it before, but these Bible study ladies love my kids.
- After Bible study, we had planned on coming home but others were going to Third Realm so we ended up grabbing a pizza before jumping for an hour. The place was empty this morning so everyone really enjoyed it. The boys are so sweaty when we leave there every single time.
- When we made it home, everyone helped unload the car, fold the laundry and empty the trash cans. I then read a few books to Whitman to offset the multitude of ipad time that he has been racking up the last few days. He so loves books which is probably why he is already reading so well.
- The afternoon went by really quickly because soon we were heading to church. I had wanted to leave before 5 but it ended up that we left right at 5. That meant that by the time I made it through the baked potato bar at church, there were no more sour cream or bacon bits. I didn't want any bacon bits but I did go and ask for some sour cream. I did get my sour cream and enjoyed my potato very much.
- After church, the kids always want for me to talk so they have plenty of time to play on the playground. I did chat tonight long enough that Graham came in to find me, and Anderson asked not to stay as long next Wednesday night.
- Once we made it home, everyone had their showers and snacks, then it was bedtime for everyone. Tomorrow is a school day so hopefully their coughing doesn't keep any of them awake tonight.
- We will again begin with the Dennie family sickness update:
- Robby-not 100% but improving
- Tara-still a sore throat but feel fine
- Reagan-moving a bit slowly but no fever (or at least that is what she says)
- Anderson-more coughing today than yesterdday
- Graham-healthy
- Campbell-moving a bit slowly but no fever
- Keaton-healthy
- Whitman-fever and has asked to take 3 showers today (I have let him-shhh, don't tell our water bill.)
- I was moving a bit slower than the kids this morning I think. I so debated just passing on school today, but I was a big girl and by 8:15 we did our reading. I read a bit less since my throat is pretty sore (no, I haven't gargled with salt water yet, but will tonight.)
- I had decided that if anyone acted too pitiful then I wouldn't make them do everything. Campbell did lay on the floor for a good while, but didn't have any problem finishing her work. I was a bit worried about Reagan, but she was soon texting me asking to work together. She only wants to work with me when she is finished with all of her work.
- I did let Whitman slide on a bit of his work. This math lesson is where he has to write to one hundred every single day. I usually give the kids two math sheets, but this would take him a year so he has just been having to do one during this lesson. To make things easier, I even let Keaton write the numbers for him when he said them.
- It was nearly one when we did finally eat out lunch. We did do chores while I made some mac and cheese as part of our lunch. It was nice to have chores done once we did finish our lunch, though since have the crew is a bit under the weather, there were really few chores happening today.
- Everyone but Reagan did play a nerf gun war for a little bit this afternoon. That went as well as you can imagine that it did. There were tears and name calling and that was just all by me! Kidding! There were tears and name calling, but not by me! It did prove to me that we possibly need to play a few more games around here so some people can learn to be good losers.
- We then read some more this afternoon. After that, I took myself a nap. I sure don't want to get sick so I am making sure that I take my vitamin C, drink lots of water and get plenty of rest. On Thursday, Robby and I have our cinnamon roll class so I am crossing my fingers that I am still healthy then. My nap was lovely with it raining and even thundering a little bit. Wonderful nap time weather. Hopefully it will still be raining tonight as we go to bed.
- Once Robby came home, he asked the kids if they wanted go to third realm. Keaton, Campbell and Graham did. Anderson did not and Reagan also declined. Robby asked Whitman who said that maybe he wanted to go another day. Of course this caused Robby to touch Whitman and indeed he had fever.
- When the others left, I took Whitman's fever and it was 102. Eeek, I promptly game him medicine! We then read a few books and before too long he had perked up again. The others soon returned as I was getting supper out of the oven.
- We had chicken and biscuits for supper. It was delicious or so I thought. I think that everyone loved it as well. After supper, it was shower time for the kids while Robby and I made some rice krispie treats for tonight's snack.
- The girls and I watched a tv show before it was finally bedtime. Possibly tomorrow, I can say that most of my folks are on the mend!
- We will begin with the Dennie family sickness update:
- Robby: feeling much better. He even left the house twice today and feels much better than yesterday.
- Tara: still have drainage and a sore throat but feels fine
- Reagan: Of the 14 girls that stayed in the house she was at this weekend, there is one flu diagnosis and 5 others who are sickly. Reagan included with fever, sore throat and coughing. She even took medicine tonight without a fight.
- Anderson: Coughing still but feels fine.
- Graham: Healthy and trying to avoid all other family members.
- Campbell: Coughing and low grade fever. She threw up a bit before I made it home tonight hopefully due to medicine on her empty tummy.
- Keaton: Healthy
- Whitman: When he has fever he is pitiful, but when he doesn't he just has a slight cough.
- The night was long last night. Robby started off in our bed but soon left when Whitman crawled in our bed. Not only did Whitman crawl in my bed, but he brought his water bottle and huge Spiderman pillow.
- Whitman must sleep with his water bottle in his hand. Every time he rolled over, he would swing that water bottle. In the beginning of the night, it was still cold so I knew there was still time to sleep. Eventually that water bottle warmed up and I knew that morning was coming.
- I did wake right up at 6 with Campbell standing beside me. She asked to take a shower to which I certainly agreed. If you are sick enough to take a shower at 6 in the morning, then you are sick. Her shower was quick and soon we were all back asleep until 9.
- We didn't see Reagan for most of the day today. When she did come down, we could tell that she didn't feel all that great. She was pitiful enough that Robby volunteered to go and get her a smoothie. He also picked up everyone else a lunch at ChickFilA.
- This afternoon Robby took everyone but Whitman and Reagan to Third Realm. Poor Whitman didn't even seem to care that everyone else was leaving. When I told him that we were going to take a nap, he also gladly came to the couch with me. After an hour though, he woke right up and went back to his ipad.
- The others came home and had all had a great time. Graham said that it is his goal to dunk by the end of our Third Realm visits. Hopefully, he can do that. I soon headed out to Bunko with the girls.
- Robby had everyone shower and fixed supper for the crew. He also handed out medicine for everyone before putting everyone in bed. Hopefully everyone will sleep tonight and feel much better in the morning.
- Robby was still under the weather this morning. Well, he has been sickly since late Friday evening. He did get up briefly this evening but soon hibernated on the couch in the bonus room. That is actually where I think that he is going to stay for the night too since Campbell and Whitman will be in the floor of our room.
- During church, Grannymom did notice that Whitman was a little more still than usual. On the way to Sunday School he coughed pretty good, and I even felt his forehead. He felt fine so I sent him on to class.
- By the time that we had collected everyone after church, Whitman was fading fast. He basically just sat in the chair during lunch at Grannymom's house.
- Anderson and Reagan had a great time at their Big Chill weekend. Of course staying up late comes with a middle school retreat. (Unfortunately, grouchiness also comes with a a middle school retreat and we are having a lot of it around here today.) Anderson said that he slept a total of 6 hours-I know that wasn't good for his cold. He is hoarse now plus I don't think that he is any better.
- On the way home from Grannymom's house, I ran to Kroger to pick up some medicine for Whitman. I wasn't sure what we had. I had looked for some preventative for the rest of us but couldn't find any so I bought a big thing of vitamin C. No one else would drink it, but I am guzzling it.
- By the time my nap and Whitman's nap (you know he is sick when he sleeps) was over, Campbell was laying on the couch. I don't think that she has fever but she doesn't act like she feels well. She has even had two showers this evening.
- Keaton and I ran to Dairy Queen to pick up our 3 burgers for the week. I am so glad that only 3 of the kids like the burgers because it makes things much easier. Campbell and Whitman only wanted cheese and crackers, as did Robby. Keaton ate some black beans but didn't think that mine were up to Nonna's so she didn't finish them.
- I did tell everyone that they had to go to bed at 9 tonight. I didn't get too much push back-I think that everyone is tired. So here is the run down on the sicklies:
- Robby-probably not fever and possibly on the mend
- Tara-sore throat but feels fine (yep, hopefully that vitamin C will help!)
- Reagan-healthy
- Anderson-congested, coughing and still using the breather regularly
- Graham-healthy
- Campbell-coughing and feels bad
- Keaton-sore throat but feels fine
- Whitman-coughing and feels bad but no fever right now
- Overall, I guess that it could be a lot worse: it could be the stomach bug! I hope that a good night's rest will help everyone around here.
- Well, the Nyquil that Robby borrowed from the Wilson's house, must have done it the trick because he slept all night long and all morning long and really just about all day long.
- The kids all set alarms upstairs because the kiddos that get upset about people setting alarms were all gone (Reagan and Anderson). I am not sure why in the world you would want to set an alarm on Saturday morning at 7 and 7:30, but whatever makes you happy I guess!
- I pulled out school for next week this morning. I also played a game with Campbell and Whitman. Keaton had spent the night at Grannymom's house and was busy crafting this morning.
- After we ate our lunch here, I loaded up the kiddos here and went to Nonna's house. Nonna and Pops kept the kids while I went to a funeral. Robby had planned to go but decided that he better save his energy for Anderson's last ballgame.
- Once the funeral was over, I picked up Anderson from church. Reagan had planned on going. We had even packed a bag for her to change clothes and shower after the game. However, she did change her mind and decided that she didn't want to go. That was certainly fine though because just the fact that she even thought about going was super sweet.
- Anderson put on his jersey in the car, and we were soon at the gym. The game did not turn out how we would have liked, but Anderson had a good game. He scored around 5 points which was good since he hasn't scored much the last few games.
- They just lost by a few points, but by the end of the game I was worried about Anderson. His cold has caused his asthma to be a real problem. Candice had come to the game and was super worried about Anderson not being able to breathe! After another puff of his inhaler he was fine.
- The kids all enjoyed basketball. And while Anderson's games have been very close and exciting, his coach situation has been uncomfortable. That coach wasn't there today so of course we wanted them to win extra because of that. They ended up being second so that was pretty great. Anderson shook off the loss and was soon ready to shower at Sara's house and head back to church.
- Robby went home after the game, but I took my 4 to Third Realm. Yep, we have now been there 3 days in a row. If we keep this up, I will soon already have my moneys worth! Ha! The place was absolutely crazy. I even struggled to drive down the street because cars were parked on both sides.
- The kids still enjoyed jumping, and Graham even found some of his buddies that were there. Once we came home, the sweaty crew took their showers while I worked on heating up supper. I was very glad that there were plenty of frozen things in the freezer so there was a an easy super for us.
- After supper, the girls made a little dessert for us. Then we cuddled up in the living room and watched some baking shows before bedtime. Whitman again chose to sleep in Reagan's bed tonight. I don't really care as long as everyone was quiet and went to sleep. We talk about how bright he is, but even after sleeping in Reagan's bed last night, it was this evening when he finally asked, "where is Reagan?" Bless!
- First, I will apologize for any mistakes on this blog. I had just plugged up my phone tonight and realized that I had forgotten to do something. The blog! We were a bit out of our routine tonight when we came in. So instead of getting out of bed to get my computer, I am just attempting to try to do the blog on my phone. I can already tell that it will be a shorter than normal blog because this is pretty tough.
- This morning we all did our school work. There was no spelling for anyone today so that makes my day a lot easier. I was able to do a few things-print something out, replace a battery and repair a book. The kids always ask me to do stuff late at night when they are going to bed and the battery and book repair were from last nights ask.
- We had our lunch-there were again lots of leftovers from last night. The kids didn’t even make a dent in them. My boys insist on heating everything up in the toaster oven even though it takes so long. I usually finishing reading some of our second book when they finally get their food warm.
- Grannymom and Geandoa came to pick up Keaton to spend the night over there. She was super excited about it and had been packed since yesterday morning. Before they left with Keaton, we drove them around to show them where some buddies bought a house nearby.
- The rest of the afternoon was spend packing. We had plenty of list but still forgot Reagan’s watch (our fault) and Anderson’s pants (his fault-at least he has a jacket.)
- I took Anderson, Graham and Campbell to east today. I enjoyed it because I sat in the quiet library and read some of my book. They did not enjoy it because they all said that they didn’t have anything to do. I wasn’t too pleased to hear that because we can just sit around at home.
- After east, Noah joined us. We then dropped Graham off with Robby who had been at Third Realm with Whitman and Campbell (visit 2). Robby has supper for the crew. My crew ate on the way to church and Graham ate on the way to basketball.
- I dropped off Reagan and she zoomed off. Anderson, on the other hand, stood right by me asking where do I go. I told him I would stay until he found a buddy. Seconds later in walked two of his friends. Then before I even had time to say bye, he headed up the stairs. I did find out what house he was at and saw that he would have one buddy there so I was pretty thankful for that.
- I then met Robby and the others at home and we loaded up for the wilsons. Shannon had made chili which was pretty spicy. It was actually spicy enough that I was able to try out my valentines Tums. Robby ran to pick up Graham. Then we ended up staying at the Wilsons until 10.
- By the time we made it home, Robby was sickly. I guess he might actually have fever. Well I know he is sick because he is wearing socks to bed! That is why my routine was all switched up tonight since after tucking the kids in I tried to crawl into bed without bothering him.
- I do believe that my blog is finished. And yes, it too me much longer to type this on my phone that it would have to get up and just get my computer.
- I was up early enough this morning to make pumpkin chocolate chip muffins for the kids' breakfast. It was even early enough that I didn't have to talk to anyone while I was baking either. Once I had the muffins in the oven, I woke everyone up. Graham had been the only one awake this morning.
- When I pulled the muffins out of the oven, we called the kids to gather to pass out our Valentine Day goodies. We had some candy for everyone plus 6 month passes to Third Realm. That was a pretty huge gift that everyone was super excited about.
- As always, Robby and I went all out this Valentine's Day. He had my annual gift of a calendar with the kids' pictures on it. He also had bought me orange flavored Tums. He is my big romantic! Ha! I had actually been complaining about our tropical flavored tums for weeks now. Now, Robby wasn't the only one giving out fancy smancy Valentine gifts. I gave him a package of Snicker's bars.
- After we passed out gifts, it was time to start on our school work for the day. I didn't have the kids fold laundry today because it was still in the dryer when they started on their own school work. I know it doesn't sound like a bit deal, but having the laundry folded and the dishes emptied by the time school is over is a super win in my book.
- We had our lunch and then started on our chores. We had a fairly short afternoon, but we were able to accomplish a few things. We did our afternoon reading, and Anderson worked on his East project.
- Then it was time to load up for our first visit to Third Realm. You better believe that I will make sure that we get our money worth out of those passes. Yes, I am already keeping a list of our jumping visits.
- The kids enjoyed jumping today. They all seemed to have a lot of fun. I am sure that there are a lot of pictures on my camera because Reagan and Anderson both had it during our Third Realm visit. Whitman probably enjoyed jumping more than anyone else because more than anything else right now, he wants to have his own trampoline.
- We came home for a little bit, but all too soon it was time to take Anderson to his last basketball practice. While he was there, Robby and I ran a few errands-first to pick up Chinese food for me and then to pick up pizza for him. That is pretty much our traditional Valentine's supper or at least our traditional near-Valentine's supper.
- When we did make it home, everyone was starving so we quickly ate. Then we all snuggled up in the living room to watch a Bates. We started at just the right time so the show would end at bedtime. However, we didn't realize that the show was an hour longer than usual so that certainly messed up our bedtime.
- I thought for sure this morning that I wouldn't have to wake many folks up. I figured that they would be so excited about the day that they would be up and going before I even woke up. That was not the case; Graham was awake before anyone else but that was all.
- I woke up the crew and jumped in the shower as soon as Robby was out. Then that left a few minutes for us to empty the trash cans and fold the laundry before having to head off to church.
- Campbell, Keaton and Whitman were both excited because they had valentine's to give to all of their classmates. Also Campbell had a tray full of Valentine cookies for her classes's snack.
- After Bible study, we hurried home because all of our buddies were on their way to the house. We had our Valentine's Day get together this afternoon which made for a crazy and long day.
- Thankfully, the day was perfect for the kids to play outside. They did migrate inside when it was time for everyone to begin matching books to boxes. Everyone had read a book and then played 4-6 objects in the book to represent the book. We had a sheet with everyone's book listed and had to match the boxes to the books. It was pretty difficult, but surprisingly the kids did pretty great at guessing.
- Once we had guessed books, we played a game before finally letting everyone pass out their Valentine's. This was the part of the afternoon that most of the kids could not wait on. After the Valentine's were passed out, we sent the kids out to play while the mommas chatted for a little bit.
- Before we realized it, it was nearly 4! Soon I had the kids that were left here to start picking up. It took a little while for them to pick up outside. Once all our friends did leave, we had about 20 minutes to pick up the rest of the house. Graham went to the bonus room, Reagan to the girls' room, Campbell to the boys' room, Anderson vacuumed, Whitman picked up the floor and Keaton worked some more in the garage. I will tell you that my people can work hard when they have to!
- We ran to the library before heading to church tonight. We decided to eat at church-since I was already too tired to try to think of something to eat here. The church meal was good but I was starving since I had only eaten dip for lunch and ran out of the house before heating up my breakfast.
- I did my game time with the preschool. As soon as it was over, I headed to pick up the kids. No one was too pleased with me since I didn't let anyone stay out on the playground for long. Really, as soon as I knew that everyone was finished for the evening, I headed to the car! They love playing on the playground, but I don't love standing around waiting so not tonight!
- Once at home, everyone needed showers before we had our Valentine cookies for our bedtime snack.
- One more thing I forgot to mention, Whitman's music teacher said that he could read better than any of the other kindergartners. She commented that he was always reading the song titles before they sang them. I would agree, he is one smart cookie!
- For some reason, I woke up early enough this morning to lay in my bed and debate if I wanted to get up and make chocolate chip pumpkin muffins for the kids' breakfast. I finally decided that I should not make them today, but just wait until Valentine's day. Now unfortunately, I will probably not wake up on time at all on Thursday.
- School was pretty the same as usual. I am not too sure how everyone is finishing earlier, but they are. Well, I say that I am not too sure but I do know. At least every week someone finishes something for the year. Anderson was excited to see that this week was his last week of Analytical Grammar for the year.
- We all ate our lunches before going off to do our chores. We had a few extra chores today since all of our homeschool buddies are coming over tomorrow. The kids always remind me that there is no reason to clean before the people come over when we have to clean right after they leave as well.
- After we read some, we moved on to the kitchen. Everyone helped decorate sugar cookies for tomorrow. Then Reagan worked on her Valentine treats which were delicious but a bit more time intensive than we had expected.
- I did have a bit of time for the treadmill this afternoon. Once Robby came home, we worked on supper-quesadillas. Afterwards, Robby worked on cleaning the kitchen floor while I took Anderson to basketball practice. Yep, they called another one before the championship game on Saturday. I do think that main reason is because many of the kids won't be there on Thursday, Valentine's day, for practice.
- While we were gone for practice, everyone had their showers. When we came home, we had a few minutes of downtime before it was bedtime for the crew.
- It seems like we have had a lot of rainy Mondays lately. I think that a person could get a little bit depressed. It would have been a good day for us all to stay in bed, but instead my Graham was up finishing his school by the time I was walking down the hallway. He wasn't completely finished but he was moving along.
- Anderson was awake, but the girls and Whitman were both sleeping soundly. It was pretty dark in the girls' bedroom. Whitman was in no hurry to wake up because he was warm and cozy with out about a thousand stuffed animals in bed with him.
- We started on our reading about 20 minutes later than usual. Well, 20 minutes later that I would like to start but just 10 minutes later than usual! We read pretty fast and soon everyone was working on their school work.
- Everyone had finished by lunch time. During lunch I read some to everyone while they ate and cleaned up the kitchen. Then it was chore time for the crew. Soon we were back to doing some more reading. (Can you tell that I just read a book that stressed the importance of reading often to your kids?)
- Anderson and I worked on some Legos for a bit. I also worked on pricing some garage sale items. The girls made slime, made perler beads, made forts and pretty much made messes where ever they went this afternoon. I did have them help me get the baked potatoes ready for supper.
- I spent a bit of time on the treadmill, but when I was finished it was almost time for supper. After supper was cleaned up, we had time to make sugar cookies for Campbell's Bible study class on Wednesday.
- Tonight while I was baking the cookies, Graham came to me with help on his math. He had a letter A page which means that it is a new concept. It was all about multiplying decimals. Once I explained it to him, he couldn't believe that it was as easy as it was. Needless to say, he finished tomorrow's math before I could even finish baking the Valentine cookies.
- After those cookies were made, I put in a batch of cookies for everyone's snack tonight. They gobbled them down and headed back to what they were working on-Campbell and Keaton worked on some of tomorrow's school work, Anderson, Whitman and Reagan were on their ipads while Graham was playing on the xbox.
- Graham was the first child we heard this morning. He came into our bedroom probably at 7 and stayed for what seemed like forever. He was digging through my clean laundry pile looking for his Sunday clothes and clothes to change into at Nonna's house. I don't know what took him so long, but after awhile I convinced myself that he must be folding the laundry as well. I was wrong about that though because when I woke up, my clean laundry pile was not folded but was just scattered around the room.
- I did have to wake up the girls and Whitman this morning. The easiest way to get Whitman up and doing what you want is to bring him downstairs. It is getting harder and harder for me to haul that sleeping boy down the stairs. I always feel like I am on that Biggest Loser show when they make the contestants run a race carrying all of the fat that they have lost. That's how I feel as I haul Whitman and his 50 pounds down the stairs. By the time I dropped him on our bed, I had to sit down for a second to catch my breath!
- Soon we were all dressed and heading to the car. Loading up the car is a process for sure. Obviously, it is much easier now than it used to be even just a few years ago. Now though everyone is big enough to remember what they have forgotten and run back in the house to get it. This however becomes a problem when half the kids have to run back in the house. Robby and I do send them to the car while we run through the house turning off lights, picking up a few things and gathering the last minute things for the car. While we are doing this kids are searching for shoes and climbing in and out of the car. It would probably be comical if you filmed us.
- Church this morning followed by Sunday school. The kids were all excited because they had their offering boxes to turn in. After church, we rushed to Nonna's house for lunch. She had Mexican food which is probably my favorite to eat. Robby and I did walk over to see Beebee's house which is ready to sell. It looks great-so good that we might even move in.
- This afternoon was a perfectly wonderful afternoon with the rain pouring on the roof. Obviously, I had a great nap! Soon though it was time to wake up for the evening. Reagan went to her life group while the rest of us had breakfast for supper. We are still loving all of the biscuits that we froze a few weeks ago. (We also froze breakfast burritos a few weeks ago, but they are almost all gone.)
- Campbell and Keaton helped me make some cookie dough to make up for later this week. After that, it was almost time for us to go and pick up Reagan. We had planned on going to the grocery store first but she text saying that she was ready and it was over. We headed that way instead and will have to grocery shop tomorrow.
- Once we were all back home, everyone had a little dessert and soon it was time for bed.
- This morning was Woven at church. My girls, especially Keaton and Campbell, were really pretty excited about it. So when I woke them up this morning, they were quick to put on their clothes and be ready to leave the house.
- We picked up Nonna and met Grannymom and then all went upstairs to find a table. Keaton, Campbell, Nonna and Grannymom all went to the cake decorating class. I know that they enjoyed it because Campbell left with icing all over pants.
- Reagan and I went to the calligraphy class. Reagan had already told me that I was to come with her because I would let her have all of my stuff. Reagan is already pretty good at calligraphy, and I am not at all. At all! So I gladly let her have all of my stuff. We left with paper to make a few cards on along with a pencil and a calligraphy pen.
- We all met back up for lunch-chicken salad which all of the grownups ate and turkey sandwiches which all of my girls had. There were a few games and a short devotional before we headed home.
- As I drove up the driveway today, I noticed out of the corner of my eye Whitman knocking on the neighbors door. The girls quickly hopped out of the car to go and play with the neighbor too. When I did go in, I asked Anderson if he knew where Whitman was and he did not. (Robby had run to get the boys' lunch.)
- I did have a little talk with Whitman about making sure that he does tell someone in the house where he is going! Gracious me. On the way home, Whitman had text me telling me that he wants a mini fridge for his birthday. That child!
- Soon it was time for us to the other side of town for Anderson's basketball game. This game determined who played in the championship. It was a pretty intense game-one of our coaches wasn't even allowed on the court. Robby and I both almost came to blows with people during the game-ha, not really. He did have to set a fan straight, and I had to set a coach straight.
- The boys were down by probably 20 points at one point during the game, but remarkably they came back and won by 2 points. After the game, we all just sat there to relax a little bit. Actually, we just set there because the kids and the Kamps' kids were running all over the court having a great time.
- Once we made it home, Robby pulled out chicken for supper but unfortunately we didn't have any tortillas so it was frozen pizzas to the rescue. The kids had showers while the pizzas baked. We ate our supper and then dug into Campbell and Keaton's cakes from this morning. They were pretty delicious!
- We did all gather in the living room to watch en episode of the Bates. The Bates turned into a few episodes of Family Feud and Shark Tank. Then it was finally time for the kiddos to head to bed, and Robby and I to have some celebratory ice cream. (We are celebrating Saturday being over.)
- I did turn off the tv last night when I went to sleep so I was sleeping pretty soundly when Anderson came in my room to ask to borrow my phone. He needed it to do some of his math work. Yes, you read that correctly; Anderson was the one working on school work before her officially had to.
- It probably helped motivate him that him and Graham were leaving for a birthday party at 10:15 this morning. I had made sure they knew that they would need to work ahead this week, and surprisingly they had. After finishing math, Anderson was bringing me a notebook of stuff to show me while I was still hitting snooze on my alarm clock. Needless to say, by the time the kids started on their individual work, he was just waiting on me to check his math.
- I did scurry upstairs to wake up Campbell so she could make muffins for our breakfast. We had set everything out last night. I knew that Campbell wanted to make them by herself, but I also knew that if I whispered to Keaton that we were making muffins downstairs she would jump out of bed to go and help. So Campbell and Keaton made our muffins this morning.
- While the baked, we started our morning reading. We did stop to pull the muffins out of the oven, and then continued our reading. Of course after eating muffins in my bedroom, we did have to vacuum, but that was fine because I had some fold laundry while someone vacuumed.
- Anderson and Graham finished their school work, put their clothes on and waited patiently for their ride to Third Realm. It was a load of boys there for Ethan's birthday party. They had pizza and cupcakes. When I picked them up after lunch, they both kept telling me how much fun they had.
- While the boys were gone, Campbell was not pleased at all that she was still at home and had to do her school work. Everyone still finished in time for me to do a little bit of school prep before we had our lunch. Each week, I have to pull out school work for everyone but Whitman. It takes me a good hour to do, but makes everything each day go much more smooth.
- When I pull out Whitman's school work, I prepare enough school work for a month. So I lay out 16 piles of work for each day. Now, this doesn't take too long, but it is something that I dread. So imagine my disgust when I went to my drawer that should have Whitman's work and found it empty. Needless to say, I did lots of school prep this afternoon.
- Campbell and Keaton were also busy this afternoon. They were busy almost burning the kitchen down. They tried to melt some chocolate chips in the microwave. Not surprisingly, a minute in the microwave is too long. It is actually long enough to melt a bowl! I might possibly have been snoozing this entire time. I did hear words like "take it outside" "open the doors" and "light a candle." Campbell was able to handle everything so I didn't move too far.
- I did move pretty quickly later when I it was time for us to get ready for Night to Shine tonight. Our job was cheering the guests as they walked along the red carpet. First the volunteers had supper and delicious cookies. Then it on to our assigned spots.
- We cheered and hollered for about 200 folks as they walked the red carpet. My hands were aching and red when the guests finally slowed down. It was lots of fun and we didn't even stay until the end. After the red carpet was over, we walked around the church house. The fellowship hall was full of folks eating and dancing, the preteen room was turning into a karaoke area and there were even limo rides around the parking lot. It was a happening place.
- Robby flew back in while we were at church and even ran to pick us up some ice cream before we all met up at home. Then we ran to the Wilson's house for a little bit this evening. We ate ice cream and caught up on our conversation.
- For some odd reason, I woke right up this morning and couldn't even snooze the last few minutes before having to get out of bed like I usually do. Maybe it was because I kept trying to figure out why my tv was on in my room. I was watching tv when I went to bed, but thought that I turned it off. However, I don't remember much of the ending of the movie that I watched so I am not too sure that I saw the end before going to sleep.
- We started on our school work this morning. Grannymom text to tell us that a storm was coming, and before I could text her back it was hailing like I haven't heard in a long time. Of course the kids all run to the windows to see the hail. Later, I think that probably wasn't the best choice. Campbell said that they were the size of ice cubes while Anderson said that they were the size of marbles. Who knows, but it was sure loud for just a few minutes.
- Then just as quick as the storm blew up, it went away. And about a minute later, the power went out. This caused all kinds of excitement. I still have about 45 minutes of reading with the kids so I figured that the lights would be back on by then. It was so dark outside because of the stormy, rainy weather that I had to get a flashlight to read to everyone.
- After I had finished reading, the kids all started on their work. The lights weren't back on so many folks grabbed flashlights and lanterns or set by a window and pressed on. Of course to the kids, this is what memories are made of. They couldn't have been more excited about doing school by flashlights.
- Of course, they were hoping that the power stayed off for as long as it could. My big 3 have quite a few things that they do on the computers so as long as the power was out, there was a bit less school work to do. Around 11 or so, it did finally come back on. Not surprisingly, all of this excitement did put us behind on our school work so it was nearly 1 when we started our lunch.
- After lunch, we picked up the house and everyone worked on organizing one drawer. Keaton and Campbell had the most to do. Keaton because she has so many clothes and Campbell because she just shoves everything in one drawer whether it goes in there or not. Anderson had the least to do and barely has any tshirts. He probably only has 10 shirts in his drawer. I started to feel sorry for him but then remembered that he happily wears two shirts over and over again (just like me and Robby.) Why buy him more when he still has some he never wears?
- Reagan then went to town making some recipe that she had seen. Basically is was chocolate covered cheesecake bites. She didn't like them but they are absolutely delicious. I helped Anderson do a little bit of his East project. He has to design a headquarters on a 3D program. I was pretty worried about getting this done, but Anderson seemed to know how to do it. He just needed me there to help motivate him to get started.
- Soon, the afternoon was over and Anderson, Campbell, Keaton, Whitman and I were heading to Grannymom's house. Anderson had basketball practice tonight so Grandpa took him while the rest of us were at church. Their power was out so Grandpa was even looking forward to going and sitting in the light for a little bit.
- While we were at Refresh tonight at church, Graham and Reagan stayed at home. They stayed at home with a list of things to do-empty the dishwasher, take showers, etc. I kind of like having people at home working on the house!
- After Refresh, we went to pick up Anderson. There were lots of power trucks all around Grannymom's house working. They still estimated their power would be back on tomorrow, but hopefully with all of those people working it will be sooner.
- We made it back home in time for Anderson to take a shower. Whitman and Campbell did make some jello for tomorrow.
- And just as things were winding down, Anderson was standing on the steps talking to me. He suddenly started screaming...his finger was in the door, and Whitman closed the door. Yep, that didn't make for a quiet evening. Anderson was in so much pain. It immediately started bruising, We got him ice and ice packs. It doesn't look broken, but gracious me I know that it hurt. Anderson was screaming and crying, Whitman was whining not knowing if he was in trouble (it was an accident), Campbell and Keaton were fretting over Anderson, Graham was trying to help me figure out what to do and Reagan was trying to calm Whitman.
- By the time that I left upstairs, Anderson had calmed down. He had two ice packs up there so hopefully that will help or at least keep his mind off of it. Anderson has a busy day tomorrow so his finger better heal pretty quickly!
- Finger update: I went to check on Anderson after a bit and his finger was already looking better. Not as blue as it was. It will still be sore but he said that it wasn't throbbing. He was almost asleep when I did go in there, so hopefully he will be able to go back to sleep quickly.
- I didn't hear Robby get up this morning, but I did wake up when he told me bye. That was at 4:30, and unfortunately, I didn't go back to sleep until right before it was time for my alarm clock to ring.
- When it did ring, I moved fairly quick and was soon in the shower. Afterwards, I woke up the kiddos. I had to bring Whitman downstairs. He was pretty upset with me for waking him up "in the middle of the night." Keaton told me that it felt like we were going on a trip since we were all awake so early.
- At 7:30, we loaded into the car and headed off to the DMV. When I drove around trying to find a spot to park, Reagan asked if I was going in the place that had all of the people standing in the middle of the room. That sent a wave a panic down my spine-I sure didn't want to have to come back later in the day.
- The kids had brought their ipads so they all set locked up in the car while I went in. They had a phone and I was prepared to give them updates on the line progress. When I went in the door, I was pleasantly surprised to see that I was the only person in the line that I needed to go to.
- Getting my new driver's license didn't take long at all. I did sweat it when the lady said that I needed 5 documents. I had an envelope of things Robby had gotten out for me plus another envelope full of things that he had sent me this morning to print out. My documents passed inspection and soon I was "giving a big smile" to get my photo taken.
- I didn't have to sign anything saying that I had not driven. This was causing great concern with the kids about my lying about driving. Since getting my new license took no time at all, we had plenty of time before Bible study. We first headed over to Shipley's to pick up a bit of a second breakfast for everyone.
- Then we drove to Maumelle to pick up Kennedy so she could go to Bible study. The traffic was at a stand still going over the bridge to get her. That was fine with Reagan because she was super excited about us being late to Bible study since we never are. Unfortunately, even though we were about 15 minutes late, her class had not even started yet!
- Bible study was good today and afterwards, we were pleasantly surprised to see that it was not raining. Since the weather was beautiful we went to Brodie Creek to play for a little bit and eat our lunches.
- Afterwards, we ran to church for about an hour to help Ms. Meryl get things ready for Night to Shine. We helped pack some swag bags. Then we moved those boxes to another place and finally we helped sort a few things. The kids enjoyed helping and would have stayed all afternoon long if there was enough stuff for us to do. We were only able to work for about an hour since many hands make light work.
- The Heltz big girls had gone with us so between Sara and I we had 12 kids with us. Hmm, I do guess that Sara just had 3 and I had the other 9. I dropped the Heltz off at home and then the rest of us headed home to unload the car.
- My first task was to trim Keaton and Campbell's hair. I think that I did a decent job yet I am not too sure of it at all. It does look better since they were in dire need of a trim. Now soon I am going to have to have my hair cut and when I go, I will take Reagan with me for her hair to have a trim. I think that me butchering her hair would be the most traumatic so I am going to let Tammy have a whack at it.
- Anderson and I did work on his Lego ship that we have been building lately. We did finish it and before I realized it, I was asking him what he wanted to do next. There are still probably 2000 grey pieces that are in the grey box. I did ask that we work on another color and not grey for a little bit to give my eyes a break!
- Soon it was time to eat our supper. I had planned on eating our never ending pot of chili, but decided not to at the last minute. That meant that I had to come up with another supper plan. It was frozen pizzas to the rescue. Thankfully, we have plenty in the freezer. After supper we were soon on our way back to the church house.
- Church seemed to drag a little bit tonight maybe because I was a bit tired. Once we made it home, all of my crew put on their pjs and had a snack. Then we had a few minutes of down time before heading to bed. Robby called just as I had tucked everyone in, so they all huddled around to listen to us chat for a few minutes. Afterwards, it was certainly bedtime for all of the crew!
- This morning....hmm, I can barely remember this morning. It did involve lots of scurrying around. I do remember that I was at the steps hollering for Reagan to come on down because we were about to start reading together, when people from my bedroom yell back that she is already downstairs. She has done that a few times lately, and I am not sure how she sneaks by me.
- We did our reading this morning. At one point Whitman stopped me trying to ask me what one word meant. I wasn't sure which word it was and started trying to explain all of the words I had read. Everyone else had to tell me what word he said so I could finally explain it. I think that word was "obsess."
- After reading, everyone started on their work. Reagan and Anderson were way behind today. They both have a fairly large book report due on Friday so they got behind working on that. Now, Graham also has the same thing but he has steadily been working on his. Reagan did finish hers off today which is why she was probably still doing school at 2.
- We had our lunch closer to 1 this afternoon. Before I knew it though, I was in the car headed to the skating rink with Whitman, Campbell and Keaton. The others stayed home so they were given a few extra things to do this afternoon, but all actually ended up outside playing with the neighbors.
- My Keaton and Campbell did very well skating. Campbell mostly roller bladed. Keaton tried but had to get her skates back. Whitman definitely needed the skate aid (the others just grabbed extra ones to play with) but he did pretty good as well and skated the entire 2 hours.
- Once at home tonight, the neighbors were still out so everyone played for a bit. Then the other neighbor came out so the little 3 went back out. They came back in about the time we had supper ready. Yes, we did have supper from that never ending pot of chili.
- At some point during showers and packing of lunches for tomorrow, Robby decided to see what some of our bonds were worth. To do this, he needed to type in my driver's license number. It didn't take him long to see that my driver's license was expired! I thought you got a note or something about it!
- Upon more inspection, he also found out that if your license is more than 31 days expired, you have to take the written test again. Tomorrow is day 31! Seriously, it was by the grace of God that he saw that tonight. I now have a zillion documents and forms of identification in the car along with twenty alarms set to go off in the morning so I can get myself and my people out of this house before 7:30 so hopefully I can be legal again by the time we have to head to Bible study.
- And yes, I have looked at how hard it would be to take the written test again. Let's just say that Reagan and I would be getting our license at probably about the same time! Yikes! I can not even imagine!
- The kids are in bed, the car is loaded up for tomorrow, the dishes and laundry are drying and I'm about to take a shower and climb into bed. My 7:30 a.m. leave time will be a lot later than Robby's 4:30 a.m. leave time!
- This morning everyone but Reagan did our morning reading. She was busy getting ready for her big day. Early this morning, Robby took Reagan and Alyssa to the capitol for the day.
- They were pages for our representative today. Once Robby dropped them off, they went to orientation and a tour around the capitol building. At some point they even went to the Treasury office and held the mounds of money.
- Jason spotted Reagan, Alyssa and another girl at the cafeteria. They were eating their lunch during a break. Reagan did say that they also browsed at the gift shop for a bit. Robby caught a bit of the session and even saw Reagan taking a note from one representative to another.
- She probably wouldn't admit it but I am pretty sure that she had a great day. She probably enjoyed the more knowing that her brothers and sisters were having to do school back at home.
- The rest of us worked on our school and the day went fairly smoothly. There was a bit of sourness knowing that Reagan wasn't having to do her school. That was fine with me though because she was learning quite a bit on her field trip and everyone else was moving one day closer to summer!
- I was about to call my folks to the kitchen for lunch when the neighbor folks came out. So I let everyone play until they had to go back in and finish their school. It was well after 1 when my crew ate.
- Once lunch was finished, we worked on our chores, and Anderson and I settled in the bonus room working on his legos. Nonna and Pops came over to drop off a sweater for Robby. They were here when Reagan came in so they were able to hear all about her day.
- Later more neighbors came out so the kids played outside until it was dark. We all had leftovers for supper-the unending pots of chili are still full. Almost sounds like a Bible story or something-remember the lady with the vat of oil or flour or something.
- The kids all had showers tonight and some of them had hair cuts. Well, the boys did. I have about decided that I am going to try to trim the willing girls' hair. We will see if I can work up the nerve-surely I can do it. We shall see though.
- We watched a tv show and at some ice cream tonight before everyone went to bed. Then Robby and I stayed up a bit and watched a few tv shows and possibly ate more ice cream.
- Robby heard Campbell and Laynie this morning at 6:20. They were going strong then and were dressed and ready when Robby and I finally did get out of bed. I was even surprised that Reagan and Camryn were also awake this morning. Keaton was the only one that I did have to wake up, but when I told her that Laynie was already downstairs she shot out of that bed.
- Church this morning and then Sunday school. Afterwards, we headed to Grannymom's house for lunch. Her cake was so delicious that Anderson was even talking about it this afternoon. The kids had some time to play before we finally headed home.
- I am not so sure what makes us so tired on Sunday afternoons but Robby and I laid down on the bed while still in our church clothes and snoozed for a while. He eventually did get up to work on this evening's snack of rice krispy treats. I helped and soon we were taking Reagan to her life group.
- Before we left though, everyone in this house picked out their squares so they could have a chance to win a prize at each quarter. We also placed bets on the overall winner, who would score first, how the first team would score and possibly something else.
- I did end up winning 10 dollars so I was certainly pleased. Reagan, who we debated letting her in on our prizes since she was gone, actually won two quarters and won movie tickets, 3 dollars and a chick fil gift card. Whitman also won 10 dollars along with some candy and a gatorade. Campbell won candy and a gatorade alone with some cash. I do believe that Anderson and Keaton won a few dollars but poor Graham and Robby didn't win a single thing.
- Reagan was pleased with her winnings here but also enjoyed her party with her life group folks. She returned home after the game was over. It is back to school tomorrow for most everyone. Reagan is spending the day at the capital building so hopefully she will enjoy it (even if she is not looking forward to it!)
- This was the first time in a few weeks that we didn't have basketball first thing in the morning. It was perfectly wonderful. Now, I will say that we didn't have to wake up for basketball, but last night when we should have been going to bed; there was basketball.
- Last night at 11, the boys decided to go outside to play some basketball. We let them because really why not? I do think that they must have tired themselves out because they only started to stir around 8 this morning.
- Robby and I soon went right to work this morning. There was laundry-there is always laundry-along with quite a few other things to pick up. I did run Noah home and pick up Keaton this morning.
- Keaton had tons of fun at her sleepover. She told us all about it on the way home. She talked the entire time telling us all about every single detail! She was also quick to show off her painted toenails and painted fingernails.
- Once at home, Robby and I started work on supper for tonight. It pretty much did take all afternoon long. We did stop to feed the kiddos some pizza. Of course I took a bite right when it was out of the oven and burned the fire out of my mouth.
- Keaton wasn't ready to leave for Anderson's game because she was outside playing with the neighbors. She even rode in the neighbors go cart!
- Anderson didn't win his game, but it was still lots of fun to watch. Well, we enjoyed watching the kids play ball but the assistant coach gracious me. I would like to take his boy home for a week to show him how a dad should treat his son. (On a side note, I am super thankful that my husband realizes that sports are just that-sports. Hopefully, my boys see that as well and understand that it is not all about winning.)
- We came home and I was thankful to see that my house was still standing. I had left the oven on and two crock pots on as well so I wasn't too sure! All was well though and my potatoes that were still hard when we left were soft and almost done. (The oven was just on warm, but I guess it still cooked those potatoes.)
- Soon the McGuires and Penningtons arrived for supper. We had chili, white bean chicken chili and baked potatoes. We, of course, made too much food, but that was fine since we will have plenty of leftovers this next week.
- The kids watched a movie but soon migrated outside to play. That is where they stayed until every left. The McGuire girls stayed over here for the night. Campbell has really wanted one of her buddies to spend the night so she was thrilled. Unfortunately, they didn't have too much time to play because once everyone left it was time for showers and then bed.
- Camryn and Reagan ended up in the bonus room. I don't think that Reagan wanted to go up there because she didn't want to haul all of her stuff up the steps. I do think that everyone is pretty tired tonight because I haven't heard anything coming from upstairs.
- First I will try to take a few deep breaths before I write all of this blog. I will say though that I just finished pulling out school for next week. That went well, but when I do this, I also double check all of the kids' work from the week before. That didn't go so well.
- They are supposed to show me every single thing that they do each day. No matter what it is, I need to see it. They are also supposed to tell me when they do things that isn't paperwork (like reading, computer math, geography on the ipad or typing for example.) For the most part, I do see everything, but sometimes I don't see some things.
- I even have a check list of the major things each day that I check off to make sure that I see it-like math, writing, etc. I know that I pay more attention to Campbell, Keaton and Whitman on their school work than the big kids. Graham is a rule follower and wants to get everything right so I also see everything of his. He used to be the child that would hide his work around the house so he wouldn't have to do it! Guess we beat that out of him.
- Keaton and I were gone this morning so the kids were on their own for most of school. I did make everyone do their math first so I could check it before I left, but the rest was for them to do while I was gone. Campbell did skip a few things but I quickly noticed them when I got home.
- But tonight was when I found Anderson's skipped writing work. I write down the page numbers they are to do so there is really no getting out of it. That made me pretty mad, but when I found Reagan's skipped writing along with her handwriting and reading, I was livid. Saturday school will take place tomorrow for those two slackers!
- I do feel better after venting for a bit! Keaton and I were gone this morning because she had an appointment for an excema study. We were there for a little bit, but the ladies doing the study were fairly entertaining. Keaton should get a few bucks from the study and hopefully, we will find something that will help her excema right now. It is pretty bad.
- After the appointment, she convinced me to buy her a Sonic drink. I had a free little hamburger there which reminded me of our free Dairy Queen burgers. Since I was right nearby, I came home with lunch for everyone.
- We then started on chores. Of course, the kids said that they had finished their chores while I was gone. One child even told us that he had dusted the bonus room. However, Robby who was eating lunch downstairs with us was quick to question that chore since Robby had been working in the bonus room all morning and hadn't seen him come in and dust!
- Now, another child had dusted and not only did she dust but she sprayed most of the tile in my closet with dust spray. If you don't know, that makes the floor slipperier than ice. I understand why some momma's drink! Ha!
- Grannymom and Grandpa came over to take Whitman home with them. He spent the night over there and was super excited about it. He just sent me a picture and a text that said "hi." He is learning the texting thing-it is pretty entertaining.
- Soon everyone else loaded up for the evening. We dropped off Campbell at Nonna's house to spend the night. She made cookies and delivered to them to Nonna's neighbor. So I know that she loved every minute of that.
- Then I dropped off Reagan, Anderson and Graham at East and switched kids with Sara. She took Keaton home with her for Lily's birthday party while I took Noah with me after East. Robby and I met up at the grocery store during East to do some shopping. I am not really sure what all we bought, but we did spend 200 bucks!
- Then I picked up the Easters and dropped the boys off at basketball. Then Reagan and I met Robby at On the Border. We ate their for supper and we are always amazed at how quickly you can get a table at a place when you have a small number of people with you.
- Afterwards, Robby picked up the boys while Reagan and I headed home. I started on school work which is why we started where we did on the blog! Today was the last day of our busy week and overall, it was a pretty great week despite the school work fiasco!
