- I spent most of the day in the kitchen, and then I spent the rest of the day in Traci's kitchen (I wasn't working there). After my chores, I woke Graham up and then started to work.
- First I made pumpkin muffins for the kids. I had this on my list to make later in the day, but then I realized that Campbell and Graham would miss them since they went to work earlier today.
- After the muffins, I made more chex mix, tortilla roll ups, and spicy cheese its. After that, I had Anderson and Graham help me roll out the sugar cookie dough. The both helped quite a bit and then each worked a section of the current puzzle.
- Last night, I did finish the puzzle and start on a large, but much easier puzzle. Everyone has stopped and done some today (not Graham though-he is not a puzzler. Whitman really isn't either, but I made him.)
- This puzzle seems to be a hit-Reagan, Campbell, and Keaton worked some last night after 11. When Reagan came in, she told us all about her evening last night. Campbell and Keaton were in the kitchen listening, and the boys all came down and stood on the steps to hear her story. When her stories were over, those girls went to work on the puzzle with no intention of going to bed. We are all staying up way too late lately, but I'm loving all of it.
- As soon as Campbell and Graham came in from work, we all left to go to the Craft Gingerbread party. This year, they divided their party up into two different parties so it wasn't as crowded, but there were still lots of people there.
- We have been going to the gingerbread party for quite a few years, and it is one of the highlights of my Christmas season each year. The boys were all at a table filled with boys, and Anderson spent the most time on his house-he probably spent longer than any of my girls too.
- It was a fun afternoon, and we came home and started a few more things in the kitchen. I made poppyseed chicken for supper. Then Keaton made fudge, and Campbell made cookies. When all of that was finished, Reagan helped Robby wrap some presents. Plus Campbell, Anderson, and Graham wrapped their presents.
- Now, I'm about to take Bentley out and then cuddle up on the couch for the rest of the evening.
December 20, 2024
December 19, 2024
- Robby was gone this morning so I took Campbell and Keaton to church to work. Campbell drove us there which kind of helped the sour mood that I was taking them. Usually, Robby takes them and they have a mystery shop on the way so they can get a treat.
- I spent most of the day doing the puzzle-seriously, I have an addictive personality, and I know it. At least puzzles and reading are my vices. I have a list of things to do in the kitchen tomorrow so I better finish that puzzle tonight so I can focus tomorrow on my chore list.
- I ran a few errands with Robby around lunch time. When we came home, the big boys were already out playing basketball with friends. They were gone for quite a long time.
- While Robby picked up Keaton and Campbell, Reagan went with me down the road to buy a little present for someone. It was a new little store that I had never been to-I could have spent a bit more money and bought some sourdough bread.
- Keaton and Campbell had a good day at Mother's Day Out, and both girls came home with treats. Campbell even had a birthday present from the sweet teacher that she works with. Since Keaton is a floater she didn't get as much as Campbell, but she still managed a gift card so I know that made today fun.
- After working all day, Campbell went to a friend's house this afternoon. She is over there now, and I have to leave to pick her up in a little bit. That is fine since I will finish my audio book while I'm getting her.
- Reagan went to a friend's house this evening. She did get her grades back for this semester-all As, plus she has already been working on her summer job plans.
December 18, 2024
- This morning Anderson had a dentist appointment to fix his final cavities. He had a few-enough that he had to have them fixed this week and last week. While he was there, I went with Grannymom to do a little bit of birthday shopping. We had fun and found quite a few things.
- When I came home from my shopping trip, I took Bentley on her walk-it was after 11, and she still hadn't asked to be taken out. I had tried to quietly get her out of the girls room this morning, but she didn't come. Probably not too many dogs can wait until nearly noon to go potty.
- We then took our walk, and afterwards, I worked on the puzzle until Campbell and Graham went to work. I did some wrapping and even Whitman joined me today. He was a pretty decent wrapper.
- Anderson helped me some more with our puzzle-I think that we might finish it before Christmas, but for a while I was doubting that. We are now only left with sky-so we have a lot of blue pieces.
- Reagan left early in the afternoon to meet her friend and do some shopping before going to a friend's house. She is still out so I'm not sure if she bought anything or not, but she was out shopping for a long while.
- Tonight the rest of us had church-the kids performed, but none of my people are kids anymore. Since I work with all them, I was around to watch. The big kids all had a Christmas party-they were less than impressed though. When Anderson is not pleased with something, you know it wasn't great!
December 17, 2024
- The last few nights, we have been getting into our room well after 11 each night. I guess it is because Reagan is home or because we aren't doing school or because people have been out...I'm not sure what the reason is, but the house just seems to come alive around 10.
- Last night, we finally pulled out Santa Christmas counter. I'm not sure why we haven't done it yet this year. But now we are all caught up-except I'm not sure if we will do it tomorrow or not. And speaking of counting down until Christmas, I finished all of Nonna's Christmas presents today and delivered them. Plus, I finished 3 more of my own presents along with wrapping quite a few as well.
- Robby was the first one out of bed this morning, but I was close behind him. I started on my chores, and of course I was avoiding my walk. I eventually decided that I was going to go, but then I looked out and it was raining. A bit later, it had stopped and I finally did go on a walk, but it was much chillier than I had expected.
- I did some things around the house, but since I am so good at putting things off lately, I stalled on cleaning the bathrooms. I did work on the puzzle some-we are over half way there, but we do have the hard half for last. The house is full of children (mine and other peoples) tonight so maybe some of them will do a few more pieces.
- Around one, Campbell drove me and Keaton to run a few errands. Then we stopped at the library and at Nonna's house to deliver her presents. When we did come home, I made some chex mix while Campbell made cornflake cookies. After those were made, I started on chicken alfredo for supper. Reagan had 2 friends over earlier in the day and then 3 different friends for supper, and Anderson has a friend over now as well.
- Keaton's new desk chair came in the mail today. It took forever to put together, but it looks pretty nice. I think that she will like having a desk chair. And we also got a huge inflatable Christmas tree. Right now though, the kids are all upstairs, and Robby and I are downstairs on the couch.
December 16, 2024
- This was the first day of our Christmas break. I slept in a little bit, but by the time that I returned from my walk, Campbell was already sitting at the table working on painting her sign. She made a sign for her birthday which was pretty perfect, and now she is working on a sign for her friend's Christmas party.
- Everyone had a little bit of school work to do today, and I think that Whitman and Graham were the only ones that actually did anything. Maybe other people did, but I'm not exactly sure.
- Campbell and Graham did have a short day at home since they both had work this afternoon. It was a dreary afternoon to be at work, but I think that they were both busy all day so I'm sure that helped some.
- Anderson and Whitman helped me a little bit this afternoon on our puzzle. It is still overwhelming but since we just started yesterday, I think that we are moving along well. I do have to be done by Christmas though so I need to do as much tomorrow as we did today.
- Kennedy had spent the night tonight, and those girls must have slept a bit late. It was around 3 when I left with Keaton and Reagan to go and get Reagan's hair trimmed. Then we ran into Old Navy and Marshalls really quickly before heading home.
- When we came home, Robby had pizza in the oven for our supper. I spent the rest of the evening working on Christmas gifts, puzzling, and just sitting on the couch.
December 15, 2024
- This Sunday morning we were not late-Anderson for sure was not late. He had to be at church at 8 so once again I was waking up a boy early in the morning. When he left it was super foggy out, but by the time that the rest of us left, it had cleared some. One good thing about me having to wake up Anderson this morning was that I made cinnamon rolls for everyone's breakfast. \
- After church, we celebrated Campbell and Anderson's birthday's at Grannymom's house. Campbell opened a pink blanket and a pink sweatshirt. I worked the longest trying to find another pink thing from her list to add to the box, but I wasn't able to so she also got a wallet and canvases which were not pink (I do like a good theme.) Anderson opened a sweatshirt, headphones, and socks plus they both received money from Dana.
- This morning when Robby was trying to get in the shower, the water was shooting out everywhere. Apparently, the shower head broke sometime between our showers-I think I would have noticed if the water was spraying everywhere, but since I didn't have my contacts who knows. Robby trying to fix it before his shower but had to take on in the bonus room.
- This afternoon he went to two different Lowe's trying to find an adapter. When he couldn't find what he needed, he decided that it was call a plumber or try again and don't worry about breaking anything. With a little force, he was able to get one piece off so he just switched out shower heads, and we are good to go....well, I am about to take a shower so we will just see.
- I started to work on the puzzle that Keaton gave me for an early Christmas present. I have done really well today, but none of the kids have really seemed interested in helping. I'm not sure that I can do it by myself so I'm a bit worried.
- Tonight Anderson made monkey bread to take to his senior life group. Reagan went with her friends out to Hot Springs to look at Christmas lights. Meanwhile, the rest of us went to the Wilson's house for supper. Shannon had potato soup plus grilled cheese sandwiches (also this was our lunch menu-but we all seemed to love it since we gobbled it down).
- We stayed over there and chatted for quite a while. Plus we played a few games which is always fun. When we came home, Reagan and Anderson were still out, but they both came in plus Reagan has a friend spending the night. Now tomorrow begins our winter break (kind of since everyone has a bit of school to do.)
December 14, 2024-Happy 15th Birthday (Party) Campbell!
- I was the first one up this morning. When I went upstairs, Graham was telling his alarm to go off in 5 minutes. I sat in the living room until he walked through for his shower and then stayed in my chair until he drove off for his ACT test.
- He questioned me yesterday when I told him he would need to leave 45 minutes early, but in today's rainy mess, it took him a bit longer to get across town for his test. Who knows how he did, but he has really worked hard getting ready for it lately.
- Not too long after he left, Robby and I ran a few errands. The most fun errands that we did were picking up Campbell's birthday cake and me finding some jeans at Old Navy for my Christmas. When we came home, I went to work on party prep while Robby worked on the garage.
- I eventually decided that a short nap would benefit me so I did that for a while. Then I went back to work on cooking. Because of my little siesta, I was behind the rest of the afternoon and evening.
- I think that I had mentioned that Anderson won a scholarship from the Korean Grocer's Association. The banquet to receive the scholarship was tonight, and if you don't go, then you don't get the money-so Robby and Anderson went since I was on party patrol. It has been quite the banquet-they are currently still there.
- Meanwhile, Campbell had 17 friends come over for to celebrate her birthday. She has only had a few birthday parties in December so close to her birthday. Not only did she have her balloon arch, but there was also a candy bar. I had Mexican and all of the trimmings for supper.
- She even had games to play including bingo and who knows the birthday girl best. There was karaoke plus a pinata and lots of presents for our birthday girl. I worked cleaning while the girls were all still here, so most things are already picked up.
- It has been a pretty busy day, but I think that tomorrow might provide time for a real nap!
December 13, 2024-Happy 18th Birthday Anderson
- I had a huge list of all of the household chores written out this morning, but then once I had done about 20 of those this morning, I quickly decided that I was just going to do the necessary ones and throw the rest of that silly list away. Maybe I'll do some more of those obscure chores later or maybe even in January, but for now, there is no reason for me to clean the baseboards in any part of this house.
- Nonna and Pops came over this morning to give Anderson his present. They brought a few cookies which everyone enjoyed. Surprisingly, everyone was awake already today except for Whitman. Anderson said that sleeping on his new mattress last night was the same as his old one (maybe we wasted our money-but probably not since we figure his mattress is at least 12 years old.) Keaton was pretty excited to have a new mattress for tonight-she even brought her old one down by herself and put it in the garage!
- Robby and I then ran a few errands-he had a few shops to do, and I walked around looking for sales (I didn't find anything.) We picked Anderson up some Whataburger for his late lunch/early birthday supper.
- While we were gone, Reagan made it home from her first semester. It sounded like she had a fun final's week. She did some studying and did pretty well in all of her classes. She brought home her bedding for me to wash, so I worked on that some while I made a dessert for tonight,
- Campbell and Graham went to work this afternoon, and then Campbell spent the rest of the evening getting things ready for her birthday party tomorrow. She has made a balloon arch, and it really looks good.
- Robby and I had our Sunday school party tonight so that was fun. We all brought gag gifts, but I did leave with battery operated hand warmers so that was a win for us.
December 12, 2024
- I could hear Campbell and Keaton moving around upstairs before I even got out of bed this morning. They love working at Mother's Day Out-I think that Campbell loves it more than Keaton, but neither of them complain and are always ready bright and early on Thursday mornings.
- I go back from my walk about 10 minutes later than usual. I decided that I would do a few more things around the house before waking up Whitman to start on school. I had thought that I had let him sleep in for 30 more minutes when I did go upstairs to wake him-except that kid was already awake and in the bonus room.
- Graham is taking the ACT on Saturday so he has been working on that, and Anderson just had geography today so there wasn't too much of a need to wake them up super early either. Though I am wondering now if Graham has a touch of ADD-he can manage to do about 20 problems before he is throwing darts or hitting a golf ball. Now, it doesn't help that we have that dart board mat hanging in the kitchen. The boys play a few rounds of golf each day-their golf is not exactly like normal golf, and people always seem to be yelling "fore."
- I wrapped a few things today. Anderson had one gift to wrap so he wrapped that-and I was quite surprised at how well he did wrap.
- I picked up Campbell and Keaton, and then we took all of Grannymom's presents to her. We went to Walmart next-I was hoping that I could find a few things there, and yes, we did leave with a few bags, but I wasn't able to mark anything off of my list so that was disappointing.
- We came home and were home for a bit before Robby left to pick up supper. We ate and then the boys played a round of golf, Campbell blew up some balloons, and Keaton did some sewing-it was a fairly active evening.
December 11, 2024
- Today was a fairly busy day. We started out with all of the normal things-chores and a walk for me and then school for everyone else.
- The big boys left first with Robby. They had a dentist appointments for a few fillings. It didn't take too terribly long, but it did take up a good bit of the morning.
- Soon Campbell, Keaton, and I left leaving Whitman at home alone to do his school. He had already finished quite a bit with me before I left so hopefully the rest didn't take him all day long-he can knock it out when he wants to, but most of the time he is just not in any hurry at all.
- Campbell, Keaton, and I met our friend at Old Navy. Her business buys Christmas gifts for probably nearly 100 kids. Today, we bought clothes for about 20 kids (2 outfits and a jacket for each). Then we stopped at Tazikis for lunch. The girls had never eaten there so they got to try something new, but I also tried their whipped feta-delicious!
- After we ate, we went back to their office to wrap those presents. Then we went to Walmart to buy toys for the same groups of kids that we had just bought clothes for. This was more difficult than the kids-we had a limited budget and some things that these kids asked for, we had never heard of. Then it was back to their office to wrap those presents. It was such a fun day, and of course spending someone else's money is always so fun!
- We were out all day long, so Campbell missed work-we knew that she would miss today so she had already let them know. The boys all came to church-Graham said that they were running late because Whitman took his shower a bit late.
- Anderson stayed late at church to practice for Sunday. He is a shepherd so that will be fun. Since he wasn't around to take people to ChickFilA on the way home, I ran by there, and we cashed in on some of our freebies.
- I had to go through all of our boxes when we did finally make it home tonight, and now that I am finally done with all of the things, it is bedtime!
December 10, 2024
- I was scurrying around this morning trying to get up in time to wake Graham up so he could take his final early this morning. I woke him up, and then I left on my walk. I walked and walked and walked, and he had not still left yet. I was just about to head back to the house to make sure that he was leaving when he drove by me. (He did just fine on his test and kept an A in the class.)
- The rest of us started on school this morning. Keaton, Whitman, and I finished one book today, and Whitman and I have one more that we will finish today or tomorrow. Plus the boys will be changing up their geography so I will have tons of huge library books to turn in just a few days.
- Campbell, Keaton, and I will be gone most of the day tomorrow so they have less school tomorrow which encouraged them to move along today. Me being gone tomorrow also throws a kink in Whitman's school-I will try to move him along so I have less to check when I do get home.
- After everyone finished their school, and then we headed to Nonna and Pops' house for a few minutes. I had some presents to deliver to their house so Campbell, Whitman, and Graham went with me. Campbell drove us there, everyone had cookies while we were there, and Graham drove us home.
- Once we were home, there were more presents in the mail that I had to sort out. I have felt a little bit like I am an Amazon worked myself lately. While we were sorting mail, I made a few baked potatoes to supplement supper-Campbell and I were the only one who ate one though.
- I made a grocery list this evening, and now I'm sitting in front of the tv completely distracted by the tv show that Campbell has on.
December 9, 2024
- Just a few minutes ago, I had convinced myself that this was Friday night. I'm not sure at all what made me think that-maybe this had been more of an easy day like a Friday than a typical Monday with all the things to do.
- There have been a few new packagers around here lately-one of the new things is a karaoke machine. This has provided Campbell and Keaton lots of entertainment. Tonight Keaton was sitting in the floor using the microphone to tell stories. Not only has this karaoke machine provided lots of fun, it has also provided a few headaches.
- Another new thing is a golf set-it is basically a heavy sheet that has dart board on it. You can hit golf balls, throw the balls, or even throw darts, and they will stick on the board. There have been competitions and games happening all day. Last night Keaton and Whitman asked if they could skip a school thing if they made a bullseye. I'm a softee and let them, but I did pick out what they could skip (I let them skip the easiest thing that they have.)
- This morning went smoothly-we are winding down before the break plus Keaton and Whitman are finishing some things. He will eventually finish enough things that I will need to figure out what to add to his list. Graham and Anderson both take their finals tomorrow, and Reagan has a few more finals the rest of this week. Her hardest was today, but she sounded pretty confident in it afterwards.
- Campbell and Graham went to work today while Keaton and I went to eat lunch with Robby. When we came home, I finished school with Whitman and took my afternoon walk. Soon Campbell and Graham were home, and the boys went outside to play basketball some.
- Tonight, Robby and the big boys went out to eat. Graham has been wanting to learn to cook a steak, so tonight they went to taste what a steak should really taste like so he can have a goal. We shall see though if he is actually able to cook one well because Robby and I don't know how to properly cook a steak!
December 8, 2024
- Of all Sundays for us to be running behind today-the choir was having their big Christmas service so there were more people there, leaving us to not have our normal seats. Thankfully, Grannymom and Grandpa had some beside them that we grabbed. And really, there was no reason for us to be running late at all especially since Campbell and Keaton were already at church this morning.
- They had spent the night at the church house for a lock in. I had told them to send me some updates, but I didn't think that Keaton really would at 2:30. Usually, my phone is on silent so I don't hear text in the middle of the night, but the whole house could have heard my phone last night since it must have been turned up super loud. I was glad that they were having fun though.
- Anderson had to stay after church today to practice being a shepherd for next week's big church. I forgot to ask if there was going to be animals. I surely hope not-yesterday, while the boys and I were at Walmart, there was a dog walking down the aisle in front of us (I'm pretty sure it wasn't a service dog.) It had to potty (#2) and that dog decided to do so not 2 feet from us. Maybe if there are animals on Sunday that Anderson has to deal with, then they will be better trained than the Walmart dog.
- Since Nonna and Pops were just getting home from the hospital at lunch time, we didn't eat at their house and instead picked up some McDonalds on the way home. That was fine since our afternoon was pretty short.
- Robby left first to run to Little Rock fora mystery shop. I left next with Campbell to take her to her dgroup in Benton. While she was there, I ran to the store and then waited on her. Meanwhile, Robby came home and picked up Keaton to take her to her dgroup in Bryant.
- I then hurried home-I was home for 15 minutes and had something that needed to go in the oven for 12 minutes so I was cutting it close. The boys had turned on the oven for me though. I left with Whitman and Lilly to take them to their lifegroup back in Bryant, and Robby dropped Keaton off at the same house a minute after I left.
- We came home, and about 30 minutes later Campbell, Anderson, and Graham left for their lifegroup in the same neighborhood. We sat on the couch for a little bit, and before I knew it I was rushing around making cornbread for the Wilson's and our supper.
- We had chili which is what they had for lunch. Robby made a dessert for us to enjoy as well. Candice brought home Keaton and Whitman who came home with most of the food that they took, and not too long after that the big kids arrived home as well.
- Now, football is on, and I'm trying to finish the blog so I have a few minutes to read before bed.
December 7, 2024
- This morning I was pretty brave and took both big boys Christmas shopping together. Anderson is not a fan of shopping, and Graham really isn't a fan either. However, I needed (and still do) Christmas ideas for them so they had to go.
- I did start the morning off with a run to ChickFilA to pick up some free breakfast things for us. That helped a little bit. Then it was on to Walmart for some shopping for their stockings. Graham found one gift there, plus he also found a Hogs shirt, but when we were checking out, he saw a hole in it...and then tonight when I was at another Walmart, I forgot to look for a replacement.
- Next up was Academy-we kind of struck out there, but Anderson did get some shorts (not Christmas) that he needed plus we bought an extra pair for him for Christmas plus a sweatshirt. Graham also found a shirt there. Oh, and they both found basketballs there as well.
- After this we braved the outlet, and that is where they started to get tiredI worked on and a wee bit grumpy. Graham really wanted to go to HandM, but everything that he looked at did not have his size. We went to Old Navy next, where Graham found a pair of shorts while Anderson bought a dress shirt (not for Christmas).
- When we did make it home, the girls could not get over that we had already been shopping and were back home. It was almost noon, but it wasn't that early. I worked on putting those present up for a little bit. The girls were busy all afternoon getting ready for a lock in at church tonight.
- Robby worked on the winterizing the camper most of the afternoon. I helped some and so did the big boys. We dropped the girls off at church, and then Robby and I went to eat really quickly.
- After eating, we went to Walmart where I bought a few more Christmas presents while he bought things we need like food for tomorrow's supper. Once we came home, we had a ton of Amazon packages to open so it took me half an hour to go through all of them and put them where they needed to go.
- Now, I am cuddled up in my blanket on the couch while Robby is watching football, and I am about to start a new book.
December 6, 2024
- I woke up and did my morning chores, and then I worked with Graham on his study guide for math. Keaton and Campbell went to Nonna and Pops' house to help them finish their Christmas decorating. They mainly worked on setting up the Snow Village, but my girls will do anything for some ChickFilA.
- Anderson soon afterwards finished one of his college classes, and Anderson and Graham will be done with all of their classes by Tuesday. Even though it was a Friday, I still did spelling with Whitman. I guess he forgot that it was a Friday, because he didn't complain at all while we worked together.
- Campbell and Graham went to work this afternoon. While they were gone I worked on the kitchen and the house some more. Keaton had already worked a lot on the decorations and the games.
- Robby waited for our pizza for supper forever-it was fine though because Keaton just switched the order of things for her 11 friends that were over.
- They did secret Santa gifts plus they decorated gingerbread houses. Keaton called Reagan to be the judge so Reagan picked the winner. When the party was over, Keaton was great about helping clean up the kitchen.
December 5, 2024
- This morning started with Campbell and Keaton going to Mother's Day Out to work while I did some speed school with Whitman and some math with Graham.
- Robby came home for a few seconds while Whitman and I jumped in the car. Whitman had a class at the Museum of Discovery. The class was called Mad about Matter-it was super well done. The lady did lots of experiments with liquid nitrogen. Then they broke up into groups and had a few different experiments that the kids did including making slime.
- At the end the instructor made a huge cloud with liquid nitrogen. Then she froze marshmallows with it and let everyone eat a marshmallow. While you eat it, if you breath out-smoke comes out of your mouth. It was pretty neat.
- We had some time to look through the museum while we waited on Robby to come and pick us up. Then we came home so I did some school with Anderson before I left again.
- This time I ran to the library and then I picked up the girls. We had to do some speed shopping because Keaton is having a Christmas party here Friday night, and she needed a few things-from Walmart, Target, and Kohls.
- We ran all those errands and even walked through Kirklands before coming home. When we came home, Keaton and Campbell started on Keaton's balloon arch while I quickly showered. Then I left again for my Sunday school class meeting.
- Robby picked up supper for the kids, but when I came home Graham was happier to see the leftover cake in my hands than to see me.
December 4, 2024
- Sometimes I schedule things and then later I wonder why in the world I scheduled them when I did-today was one of those days! I signed Campbell up for her driving test at 9:45 this morning. We had to be there at 9:30 so I zoomed through reading with Keaton and Whitman, and then hurried out of the house.
- We arrived on time, and then Campbell took a practice run around the loop. Then I parked in the spot-it was so busy, that I had to park in between the other cars. We went in and checked in. Then Campbell sat in the car for about 45 minutes waiting on her turn while I sat in the waiting room. (The other 3 times, I have stood outside, but today it was too cold for that.)
- When it was finally time to take her test, I could peak out the window from where I was sitting and could see her back out. I tracked her on her whole route, and when she parked I walked out to meet her.
- She saw me, and I could tell that she was upset. She got to me and did tell me that she had passed, but then the driver exam person explained about what happened. Campbell was driving along, and someone pulled out in front of her. She had to stop suddenly, which she did fine. Then that person swerved in front of Campbell and stopped in the middle of the road causing Campbell to have to slam on the brakes. This caused the driver exam lady to start yelling at the other driver. All of this was just too much for Campbell-she said that she never wanted to drive again.
- Then we went to the Revenue office, and I guess it was a good thing that we had to wait for Campbell to calm herself down. But it wasn't that good that we had to wait for almost an hour. We finally got her license and hurried on to Sonic-that girl deserved more than just the standard drink-she got a meal.
- We made it on while Graham was standing in the garage waiting on Campbell and the car to get home so they could go to work. They worked the rest of the afternoon while I finished school with Anderson, Keaton, and Whitman.
- Before too long, it was time for church tonight. They fed us dinner tonight at church-tacos. They were fine, but most of us had another meal or snack when we came home. The Wednesday night ChickFilA people just came home at the same time that I put a cake in the oven for tomorrow night.
December 3, 2024
- When I stood up at 12:30 today, I could barely stand myself up straight. I then realized that I don't think that I had actually stood up sine 8:30 this morning when I first sat down. I guess I need to start walking around between working with kids.
- There is really no reason that school is taking me this long this year-well, I did change the little 3's language arts so I guess that is what it is plus I've added an extra math for everyone. So really, I have done this all to myself.
- Robby was at Costco today and offered to pick up the kids something from the snack bar. He offered to pay a dollar for each kid. This was a good experiment in the kids' money management. Anderson bought nothing while Keaton and Whitman both used Robby's dollar to buy 1 cookie for them to split. Campbell and Graham, the working children, bought themselves a cookie and a chicken bake.
- When lunch was over, I took Campbell for a little bit of driving-tomorrow is the driving portion of her test. I think she will do fine...at least I hope she will do fine, but backing up won't be easy at all! So start praying around 9:45 in the morning for her to back up safely.
- When we came home, I took my walk and worked with Whitman. Then I ran with Robby to pick up a supper supplement. I had made potato soup which most people ate, but they also snacked on the chicken that Robby picked up.
- Now, everyone has been in the living room for quite a bit of the Hogs game. Campbell and Keaton have stayed in the longest, and now they are spinning each other in Robby's office chair.
December 2, 2024
- This didn't really seem like a Monday, especially a Monday after a break. Things went fairly well today which always surprises me. Now, Whitman was even finished a bit earlier. However, this is because he didn't do the math that I laid out for him, he switched it out from math for later this week. I don't mind him doing this except it just leaves the harder math for later in the week.
- Graham really struggled this year because he has a lot of school, and then three days a week he is leaving by one for work. Plus the other two days a week, he is gone over an hour for his class (when he goes). He rarely accomplishes all that I have planned and was still working on school work tonight on the couch.
- Anderson may just turn out to be my chef-or at least my short order cook. His standard lunch meal lately has been eggs with leftover ChickFilA which we have seemed to have a lot of. He fries up his eggs and dices up his chicken and makes a pretty appealing looking hash.
- Campbell would prefer to stay home instead of going to work, but she sure does love getting those checks in the mail. She said that she did a lot of cropping today. When she did get home, she drove Keaton and me to pick up a present that Keaton bought. Then we picked up some nuggets for some folks before we hurried home.
- Then Campbell joined Robby and me to go out and eat. It was a good meal, and the waitress was nice, but everything just took a while. At least the room that we were in was entertaining. When we came home, I settled in my chair to read and write the blog. I've just returned from taking the dog out and am a bit chilly now-should I get myself some hot chocolate...possibly so.
December 1, 2024
- This morning was church morning-I had called Anderson a few times to wake up, and he seemed awake. However, when he came downstairs this morning to head to the car, he said that was the fastest anyone has ever gotten ready for church-I doubled checked that he had remembered teeth and deodorant. He had so it was all good-and his hair even looked nice.
- We all went to church-I might be missing teaching Sunday school just a tiny bit, but maybe not. I'm not sure-I do enjoy our Sunday school class, but I feel a bit unsettled still on Sunday mornings.
- After church, we had lunch at Grannymom's house for lunch. The college girls were both there- Reagan and Lilly so that filled up the kids table. I'm sure that they enjoyed that though. We also celebrated Dana's birthday a bit early this afternoon.
- When we came home, Robby left to run some errands. While he was gone, I did do a few things at first, but then I just pretty much had a nice long nap. (I really don't think that it was that long, but it sure was nice.)
- None of the kids had afternoon and evening activities so it was a quiet evening around here. Reagan left early this evening to head back to school. She just had two weeks left of school so it won't be long before she is home again.
- The Wilson's came by this evening so we visited for a while. Shannon brought all of her desserts over so we did enjoy some sweets before we start the week tomorrow.
November 30, 2024
- I didn't wake up that early this morning, but it was at least 3 hours before I saw anyone else awake in this house. I did my laundry and dishes, and then sat down and read some. Eventually, I had myself some hot chocolate.
- Once I tried hot tea thinking that I would like that, and it would be a bit healthier than hot chocolate. Unfortunately, tea was not at all for me. I actually had intentions of making cinnamon rolls today, and yes, the people probably would have wake up about the time that they were finished, but I just couldn't bring myself to make them.
- Robby and I took Reagan's car and the minivan to go and get some gas. Then we went to Kroger where I found a few Christmas stocking thing. And let's talk Christmas presents really quickly-I don't buy a ton for Christmas, but all I have done for the last few days is buy things. It is ridiculous, and when the delivery men all start showing up, it will be even more ridiculous. The other day actually, the UPS man and the Amazon man were both in the driveway at the same time.
- We came home and watched the football game-I helped Campbell make another stencil for her sign, the girls and I did some amazon shopping, Keaton made cookies, and I was even able to take a nap during the game. Actually, I had two naps-one at the beginning of the game and one at the end.
- When we finally lost, Campbell, Keaton, Robby, and I went to eat supper. We brought everyone here some things home as well. Then Robby did some work on Reagan's computer while Campbell resumed her sign painting.
- Once again Campbell has spent much of the day working on her birthday sign. It is impressive-really, better than impressive. At one time she joked about selling it, but now I don't think that you could pay her enough money at all to make and sell one.
- Currently, Campbell is trying to teach Reagan how to pick up Bentley. Campbell and Keaton pick Bentley up like a lap dog and carry her around the house, but Reagan can't do that. Bentley is a very good sport about all of this.
- I am sitting in my chair with my hood on and a blanket, but I am a wee bit chilly in this house. I do love winter, but maybe I'm just not ready for it quite yet.
November 29, 2024
- This morning even though I slept in, I still had the big tree in the living room set up and mostly decorated before anyone else was out of bed. Well, Bentley was there staring at me. I did feel a little bit bad when I moved her chair away from the window so I could put up the tree. She will no longer be able to spend her day staring out the window.
- I will say that I do love our trees, but I actually abhor putting the ornaments on the trees. That is something that just does not thrill my soul at all. There are just so many ornaments to hang-I will say that Graham hung 5, and Robby hung 3 but other than that it's just me. And now that the tree is up, all I can think about it is that I will have to take it down in less than a month.
- Keaton and Campbell really wanted to go to Black Friday shopping. We did get them to Walmart today-so we could buy some craft paint. We didn't really find much else that we needed, but it was a fun adventure.
- When we came home, Campbell went right to work on making a sign for her birthday party. She has painted on it for at least 5 hours now. It looks so good, but gracious she has put a lot of work in it. While she painted, the boys came home from playing basketball. They had wanted to play at one of the gyms, but ended up at someone's house since the gyms were closed. They struggle finding somewhere to play.
- Reagan went to hang out with her friends for a little bit this afternoon. They played pickleball, and she said that it was freezing! Robby, Whitman, Keaton, and I went to Dave and Busters for an outing this evening. We ate supper-they had pizzas while Robby and I split nachos. Then we had a card that they could use for an hour, so we maximized that-I think that Whitman's favorite was Mario cart.
- When we came home, Campbell was still working on her sign-she might still be working on it!It is nearly 10, so soon this crew will be headed to bed. Though Whitman slept until 2 today-I guess he was tired for eating all of that turkey.
November 28, 2024-Happy Thanksgiving 2024
- I was vacuuming this morning before anyone else was out of their beds. The house was fairly straight, but there were a few things left to be done. Plus the rolls had to come out of the fridge pretty early-I kept them in the fridge over night so I didn't have to wake up at 6 to let them start rising.
- I did make my sausage cornbread and pull out the hashbrown casserole to bake. I noticed some smoke coming out of the oven as it was preheating, but I did what anyone would do-I ignored it hoping it would go away.
- It did not; the smoke alarms started chirping throughout the house. Robby eventually tried to scrap the bottom of the oven to clean whatever was down there. (Here's the thing, I don't know what caused it-possibly the cheesecake but it didn't leak that I know of.
- After Robby did his work on the oven, plus a fan and a window and door open, the smoke left fairly quickly-or at least no one today said, "it's smoky in here." The food was soon ready, and then we put the rolls in.
- Meanwhile, the kids were making their fruit turkeys-I'll admit, they have just about aged out of this tradition. The girls still seem to enjoy doing it, I think, but the boys could care less. I did get our customary turkey picture with them so that is really all that matters. Also, I did think that it was interesting that the girls choose to use all fruit while the boys concentrated on meat and cheese.
- Soon everyone arrived-Jason, Grannymom and Grandpa, Nonna and Pops and all of the cousins. It was a full house with around 23 people. My kitchen is large, but it is tight with that many people eating.
- We had tons of food, but we had even more desserts. Graham was disappointed in his cheesecake-the crust was a little over done, but otherwise it was still pretty good. We have both eaten some this evening so it must not be that bad.
- Everyone stayed a visited for a good while. When the house was empty, I picked up a few things and soon things were all back to normal-I still have to empty the trash and move the table back, but I was stalling on those chores.
November 27, 2024
- I slept in some today, but when Robby mentioned a trip to Costco, I did jump up and get moving. I think that Bentley even understood the urgency because she was almost sprinting during our morning walk. Sometimes I have to convince her to keep going and drag her a few feet before she decides to join me.
- I still cut my walk short so we could leave and run our errands. Campbell needs new costco leggings and the ones that I like are also from there, but I wasn't able to find either. We did fine some toilet paper, paper towels, and vitamins. None of those things are very exciting for sure.
- Then we ran to Kroger where I spent most time in line at the customer service trying to have them correct a price (I was overcharged 3 dollars) than we spent in the store. I was able to get my money back so all was well. I do remember the days when Kroger would give you the item for free if it rang up the wrong price-the good ole days.
- When we came home, the girls, Keaton's friend who spent the night, and Whitman all went to the movies. They had a good time-especially since the popcorn was plentiful. While they were gone, Graham and I started on his cheesecake.
- I had not properly read the recipe-I knew it would bake for a little bit, but I had no idea that it would bake on a very low temperature for an hour and a half. Then it said do not open the oven for a few hours afterwards to prevent cracking. I had things to do-I waited over an hour, but once I saw a crack in that cheesecake, I opened up that oven and took it out. (I know officially cheesecakes should not have a crack in them, but actually it does not change the flavor at all.)
- The movie goers came home, and Reagan headed to pickleball while I took Keaton's friend home. Campbell drove us home, and once at home she showered while Keaton and I picked up the bonus room. Then Campbell made 2 recipes of no bake cookies-one turned out and the other didn't.
- Soon Reagan and her people came back to the house. I had cheese dip ready, but when I went to get the cheese for grilled cheese, I was surprised to see that we didn't really have any cheese! Robby ran to the Dollar General and picked us up some and all was well.
- While he was gone, I did check my email to see that Anderson had won a little scholarship. That made the cheese craziness all better-we just need about 19 more of those scholarships!
- I fed all of the people-Reagan's 5 extra plus everyone here-so supper tonight for 13 while setting the tables for over 20 tomorrow. I worked in the kitchen for most of the night, but now I am about to scoop Robby some ice cream and do a little more prep for tomorrow.
November 26, 2024
- Yesterday, I was busy all day long, but today not so much. It was nice, but also I have felt a little bit lazy. It was at least 11 before I heard from any of the kids. I'm not sure how long the girls stayed up, but Campbell said Reagan kept telling them that she was going to bed, and then she would be the one chatting.
- I have done a bit of school things each day trying to have things ready to smoothly start in January. And I had intentions of reading one book to Keaton and Whitman since I really want to finish it by Christmas, but that didn't happen.
- What did happen was everyone had dentist appointments-that is always fun! Only 2 people have cavities, but it was a total of 7 cavities. Merry Christmas! Ha! He didn't mention braces yet, so that saved us a few grand...though that will probably come next visit.
- I had called this morning asking them to clean Anderson, Reagan, and Graham's teeth first so they could go ahead and leave. They didn't wait on Campbell who was just about done, but since she hates the dentist the most and didn't have any cavities, she bought herself a celebratory shake on the way home as I picked up some of our free nuggets.
- The kids ate some of their nuggets and supplemented with all of the things from the fridge-I am not sure why we have so many things crammed in our fridge right now, and it is almost Thanksgiving! I did work on finishing the soup tonight while Robby and Whitman worked on the pizza from the fridge.
- Keaton has a friend over so right now, they are huddled in the bonus room with Campbell watching Dancing with the Stars. Reagan is also at a friend's house watching the same thing-but here's the thing, we never watch Dancing with the Stars, so I'm not sure of the interest, but a live tv show with some popcorn is always fun.
November 25, 2024
- I woke up early for a non school day today and went right to work. Actually, Robby and I went right to work-after sweeping and moving all of the chairs out of the kitchen, Robby steam mopped the floor. When we first moved in here, 13 years ago, we steamed mop at least once a week-this is probably the first time we have done it since Thanksgiving last year.
- Then we continued our light bulb changing from last night. Then, we were able to change 4 of the 5 light bulbs, but today Robby had to get out the big ladder to change the final light bulb above the big window. I "held" the ladder as he climbed up, and then we struggled to get the ladder down safely, but the new light bulb was installed without breaking any windows or bones.
- Robby then went to work while I continued on my cleaning journey. Since I was having people over tonight, I took this opportunity to clean the house for Thanksgiving-this place is as clean as it will get. (Well, I didn't do much to the upstairs parts except the bathrooms.)
- I didn't manage to get in my second walk today, but I did finish one book plus I had myself a 20 minute nap while I was procrastinating on cleaning the bathrooms. Graham and Campbell went to work today, and as soon as she came home, Campbell, Keaton, and Reagan all went to work on making their sweatshirts. They all look very cute!
- I had potato soup, cornbread, spinach dip, and chocolate cake for supper tonight. There were seven of us who all sat around visiting and eating until after 10. It was so very nice to see everyone even though we usually all pass by each other on Sunday and Wednesday.
November 24, 2024
- Since Anderson had to bring his Sunday school breakfast this morning, I was in the kitchen when he came downstairs early. I was already working on a few things, and he asked if he could help and said that he had gotten up early in case he did need to help. Since we had done the fruit and sausage balls the night before, plus I had done the monkey bread prep as well, there wasn't anything for him to help with.
- He had his shower, and soon afterwards, the house was buzzing with people getting ready for church. We loaded up the van and made it there on time. I think that Anderson's breakfast was a hit this morning which was fun-and Graham was thrilled that there was a little bit of monkey bread leftover.
- We then went to Nonna and Pops' house for Sunday lunch. They had bbq and chocolate cake, so after eating we stayed around a visited for a little bit. Then we headed home for a few minutes-I had time to take a brief nap before leaving with Campbell for her dgroup.
- While she was there, I sat in the car and read. Once it was over, I brought her and a friend home, but on the way, we picked up another friend passed Robby and Keaton. They were headed to the same Starbucks for Keaton to go to her dgroup-we possibly need to coordinate the times a bit better.
- Robby took Keaton to Rock Creek for Sunday night when she was finished, and Anderson took everyone else this evening. They had their Thanksgiving feast which I think that the kids enjoyed-though Graham didn't get a roll which made him sad!
- While they were there, Robby and I went to the Wilson's house, Whitman stayed home-he had already eaten and played a game with me this evening, and Reagan and her buddies went to a Friendsgiving.
- Now it 10:30 and Robby is climbing on a 20 foot ladder outside changing light bulbs outside the house.
November 23, 2024
- I slept crazy late today, but I I was still awake before the kids. Robby was outside working on his mower (unsuccessfully, but he has a plan) so I did my morning chores while listening to my book.
- Graham was the first one awake, and since we were out of frozen waffles, we made some real ones for his breakfast. Then I washed some fruit for Anderson's Sunday school breakfast. I had just abbreviated Anderson's Sunday School and then wrote out breakfast on my calendar so of course, a lot of commotion has been caused about me cussing on my calendar (ASS breakfast).
- Robby left for some errands, and a bit later in the day the girls all left for some errands. I had some coupons that I hoped Reagan could use since she doesn't have any Christmas ideas. She did find herself an outfit for Christmas, that she said she was going to wear tomorrow and on Thanksgiving, but then I could have it to wrap up.
- Those girls had themselves a big day because they also went to Chickfila to pick up some free nuggets. Campbell and Reagan also got themselves a shake. (Robby and I got one later in the day, and we were disappointed in how small the shake was-such a rip off. Now, do know that I will order one again though.)
- And after lunch, the girls went to Hobby Lobby to but themselves sweatshirts-actually, I was asked to buy the sweatshirts. This is their plan for if they get bored this week-they are going to sew something on the front.
- Robby and I ran some errands this afternoon together, but we made it home to see the end of the Ouachita game and then the end of the Hog game. I made supper tonight even though Reagan left before it was finished. She went to a friend's house and then out to eat.
- After supper, Robby and I made sausage balls and I prepped things for monkey bread to make tomorrow. ASS breakfast was quite a bit of preparation.
- When we had finished in the kitchen, we spent a good deal of the evening in the living room watching football. The kids would come in and out watching the game and walking through on their way to take their showers.
November 22, 2024
- I woke up first this morning, and after my chores, I had to go upstairs and find Bentley. This was her second or third night to sleep in the girls' room. She was sound asleep on Keaton's bed when I had push her off the bed to come downstairs.
- First this morning, Graham took his math test. When that was over, I started to work on my chores.
- I was able to completely reload the camper today-it took me about 8 trips from the house into the camper, but finally I finished. Well, I finished putting away the easy things.
- Most of the late morning and afternoon, the kids continually kept checking on if Reagan had left to come home yet. When she did come home, she had a trunk full of things. After unloading, she headed upstairs, had a nap, and I haven't seen her since.
- Robby spent the evening working on his lawnmower. He wasn't able to fix it, and we even had to run to Walmart later in the evening to pick something up. Hopefully, it will work better tomorrow.
- The boys played basketball tonight even though it was pretty cold, while Campbell and Keaton watched some basketball and football. Now Anderson, Keaton, Whitman and I are playing a game as we are watching some basketball. Reagan has even come down to see us and the dog.
November 21, 2024
- I woke up Graham first so he could go to class-this was the first time in weeks that he did go. I wonder if his teacher said anything about him being absent or if she even noticed that he was absent.
- Right after waking him up, I started trying to wake up Bentley. She had slept in the girls' room, and it takes her a bit of time to wake up in the morning-and I needed her downstairs ready for our walk.
- I finally got her down the stairs for our walk, and then hurried home so I could wake up the girls. They are so responsible though because they were already out of bed getting ready.
- Robby took them to church as I started on school with Whitman. Anderson was there too so we finished early today, and then Graham came home. Without Keaton and Campbell, I had a few more minutes today, but not that many. I spent a good deal of time working on a list of all of the things that I will need to buy for the next few weeks.
- I picked up Keaton and Campbell today, and then we went to Walmart. We bought a few things that I needed that were not Christmas gifts, and then we found a few things for Christmas. Next I had to run to Kroger to buy something to December-October was busy where I felt like we need a flow chart to survive, but I think that I will need a chart and a few lists for December as well.
- When we came home-oh, and Campbell drove us home. She did very well-we have to do quite a bit of practicing because she takes her driving test in a two weeks.
- Robby and I ran some errands today including eating out at On the Border. It is our favorite place to eat, but there is never anyone there so I always worry that it will be our last time to eat there. We came home, and now we are watching some football with the girls while eating cookies.
November 20, 2024
- I realized today why I am moving so slowly on school lately, since Keaton and Campbell are doing Mother's Day Out on Thursdays, they have to do all of their school in 3 days. This means that I have to grade all of their school in three days. I think this is what is slowing me down.
- Even being a little bit slower, school still went well today. Graham had a lot of math to do so that meant that I had to hurry to do Campbell's things so she would have time before she went to work.
- I was about to fix my lunch today, when I realized that I had not even thought about checking Anderson's work for the day. I did that quickly, and then did get my lunch.
- Campbell doesn't know how long she will work, but she is working all of this week-and she is enjoying getting that paycheck.
- This afternoon was filled with lots of preparations for the feast-Anderson helped me make mac and cheese, but since Campbell and Graham were at work, I had to make their green bean bundles and corn casserole.
- Keaton, Campbell, and Anderson all wore their Hawaiian shirts since that was theme tonight, and I think that they all had fun at their feast-Campbell and Anderson still went to ChickFilA afterwards with all of their buddies. We had some free nuggets so I ran in there to pick them up on the way home, and I was surprised at all of the kids there-I guess they didn't get enough food.
- The rest of us came home, and before too long Campbell and Anderson came home as well. Now, I'm about to get myself some hot chocolate!
November 19, 2024
- Once again I let Graham skip his math class this morning. Though today we were doing one of his math problems, and we weren't just sure on what we were doing-maybe I should have made him go! Ha! We figured it out though-I hope.
- Overall, school went well today. I think that it helped that most everyone was leaving with me for Nonna's house around one. We were delivering Pop's monthly socks, and Graham convinced Nonna to make him lunch as well.
- While I was visiting, Graham and Whitman were wrestling enough that Graham hurt his thumb pretty badly. As we were leaving, I was trying to figure out if we would need to go to the doctor today or tomorrow. Thankfully though after our other errands, he volunteered to drive home and even played some basketball later in the day so I guess that it isn't broken at least.
- When I came home, I finished school up with Whitman and then worked on cleaning the camper some. I am spraying it down so well that I can only stay in there for a little bit of time before I start coughing.
- Keaton made her mini cheesecakes for tomorrow's feast at church so this evening Whitman and I worked on his dessert. He chose chocolate chip cookies so we made those. Whitman really enjoys cooking.
- The last two evenings I have been able to sit down for a little bit which has been nice. Even though the days have been shorter making the nights longer, I haven't really felt like I could tell a difference until these last two evenings. I have had time to sit and read, but also time to do some Christmas shopping.
November 18, 2024
- Last night when I sat to write down my list, there were so many things that I had to use two pages to keep everything organized. Thankfully, even though school went to after 3, I still was able to sit down for a little bit this afternoon.
- First, for it to be Monday school went fairly well. The big boys are trying to finish up their art class before Thanksgiving-well, I should more correctly say, I am trying to get the big boys to finish up their art class by Thanksgiving.
- After drawing a self portrait, they are supposed to write a few sentences about who they are. I explained to them that sometimes you just have to write a bunch of stuff that if just fluff and doesn't really say anything. Graham was able to do this, but so far Anderson has written "I am really batman, don't tell anyone." He still has a bit of work to do since I want that done today!
- Whitman has finished quite a few things for school so I have added quite a few things as well. I thought that he might finish a little bit early, but I guess not because of all of the things that I have added. He has about 3 things left that he can complete, and then everything else we just continue on. When he does finish those things though we will start to get ahead on next year.
- I was able to sit down and think about some Christmas gifts today plus go on two walks. By the time that I took my second walk, it was crazy windy so I was in a hurry so a branch didn't fall on my head. (None fell on me.)
- Campbell went to work again today with Graham plus they received their checks in the mail today-this was her biggest check to get so I know that makes her super happy! She was even talking about making a Shein order.
- I was watching the weather and the time hoping that they would make it back home before the rain came tonight. They didn't, but they crawled down Lawson and made it home safely. Once they were home, I made some more cornbread so we could eat another round of taco soup.
- Actually, I said that I made the cornbread-I didn't. I poured the flour in the bowl and then remembered that Whitman enjoys cooking so I called him down. He was quick to come down and to make something.
- Robby said that this was probably his last time to eat it, but maybe I have a few more times in me. We have quite a bit left and thankfully, when I added the cornbread tonight quite a few kids chose it as well.
- Keaton, Campbell, Whitman, and I played a few games this evening. After our game, I am now back in my chair trying to plan some school...or maybe I will pick up a book a read some!
November 17, 2024-Battle of the Ravine Weekend
It was a another perfect night of camper sleeping. I'm not sure what all I mentioned last night, but we found some ants as we were getting ready for bed last night. I sprayed the floor well, and Robby and I had to eventually move our mattress and spray behind it.
Despite doing this, we were brushing off ants occasionally when ever we looked for them. However, we all did sleep well...but this morning when we woke up, the ants had moved to around the ceiling and had doubled or even tripled. They were everywhere and caused the kids to make quite a commotion.
We sprayed well and found where they were coming in so we were able to stop that-at little too late though. Thankfully, they weren't biting ants, and they didn't really get into any of my food. However, now we have ant spray and ant remains every single place in the camper.
This is probably the last trip in the camper this year plus we had 4 trips in October so it definitely needed a super good cleaning. It didn't get that cleaning today, but every thing did come out of it so the cleaning process has begun.
Before we left, Robby and I walked down and had breakfast with everyone. It tried to rain, but stopped so we took that as our cue to go and head and leave. Graham and I rode back in the van and stopped a few places on the way home.
This meant that we did get home a bit after everyone else-which meant that a good deal of the work had already been done. It took quite a few loads to get the camper empty and quite a few loads to wash all of the things-actually, I am still washing all of the things!
Anderson and I made some mashed potatoes for his life group tonight so when he gets home I will hear how they went over. Graham, Campbell, and Keaton went to Rock Creek tonight, and we went to the Wilsons to eat some more Taco soup.
November 16, 2024-Battle of the Ravine Weekend
It was another very good camping day. We slept in a little bit, but the kids were really the first ones out of the camper. We heated up some leftover breakfasts for everyone, and before too long it was time to head to the Battle of the Ravine.
Last year we struggled to find seats so this year we headed to the Henderson campus around 11-two hours before the game. We found a great parking spot and were surprised at how few people were already in the stadium. About 15 minutes later there were many people pouring into the stadium.
It seemed a bit long before the game started, but it was nothing like how long the concession stand line was. The Ouachita crowd probably doubled the Henderson crowd so the visitor's side probably doesn't have huge concession stand lines. Graham and Whitman waited in line for an entire quarter for the game.
The weather was beautiful, but we were sitting in the direct sun light so we will all be pretty red tomorrow. Keaton and Whitman went to sit in the shade, and when we walked around to check on them, it was so much cooler-I would have had to bundle up to sit there.
The game was close, and thankfully, it didn't go into overtime-I mean, thankfully, Ouachita won. When it was over, we ran a few errands before heading back to the campsite. I had already made my 2 recipes of taco soup plus Shannon had 3 recipes. There was also cheese dip, cornbread, smores, banana pudding, oreo delight, cookies, and candy. Robby also used 4 loafs of bread making grilled cheese sandwiches for everyone. We just about needed all of the food that we had since we fed over 35 people this evening.
Brett brought some friends, and Reagan brought some friends as well. I had met some of her friends, but I think that she had a few new ones here tonight as well. The fire was going strong so it was fairly warm, and it was just a really fun evening and a good ending to our camping trip.
There is a slight possibility of rain in the morning, so we put every single thing up today. The kids do add a lot more stuff and bodies to our minimal square feet of living space when camping, but they also can be super helpful. Tonight they certainly helped out a lot as we had to pack up all the outside stuff. But it is 11, and everyone is now in bed so I am about to take my shower in a few minutes and then call it a night.
November 15, 2024-Battle of the Ravine Weekend
There is just something special about camper sleeping especially when you do not have to get up. I woke up to Robby on his computer this morning, and after awhile I started reading, but we had no intentions of leaving the bed.
Campbell and Keaton were the first ones to actually get out of the bed this morning. They went outside with Bentley, and Robby and I followed soon after to start making pancakes for breakfast. The weather was pretty perfect today and just a touch warm which was nice.
The kids spent time in the hammocks and by the water throwing rocks. There was talk of some pickleball but instead they threw the football some. Robby, Graham, and I ran a few errands which included picking up football game tickets for tomorrow. We even went into Walmart which I spent so much time in yesterday, and I was shocked to see that they had added all of their Christmas sell things in the aisles. I could have stayed longer looking at all of the new things they had put out, but we didn't.
Back at the campsite this evening, we did some walking and eventually started our breakfast for our supper. We had a smorgasbord including breakfast slides, burritos, bacon, fruit, pancakes, hashbrown casserole, and french toast. It was a lot of food, and we made a pretty good dent in all of it.
Reagan even came over for supper. Her class has to guard the tiger tonight so she didn't stay too long-she said that she might go back and study for a little bit. She assured us that other people would also be studying so it was fine that she was studying on a Friday night.
The fire tonight was perfect. I never even had to put on my second and third jacket that I had ready to go. We were out until after 11, and the boys and Campbell are still outside watching the Tyson fight. I had no desire to watch the fight so I came on inside.
Camping is a lot of fun, but it is a bit of hard work-I am tired tonight!
November 14, 2024-Battle of the Ravine Weekend
I woke Graham up first for school this morning, and he just grinned at me and asked if he had to go. I said that he did not, and he rolled over and went back to sleep. Then I emptied the dishwasher and then went to wake up Campbell. She was already awake and on her phone.
Next up was my shower followed by waking Anderson up. After I woke him up I did the laundry and started taking trips to the camper to load up the things that appeared during the night (the kids did some packing after bedtime).
Soon, Campbell, Keaton, Anderson, and I were leaving for the day. We dropped off Campbell and Keaton at church to work at Mother's Day Out. They came home with some chex mix which was delicious for a fall treat. Anderson and I drove on to Ouachita.
We had an official tour today. He had been for Tiger Day where you tour with a large group of people, but today was just us. It was a beautiful day, and we walked all over campus. He is leaning towards a business degree so we met with the dean. We had a good time, and I think that it confirmed his decision even more.
After our tour was over, we found Reagan. I offered to take her to lunch, but she had just bought her lunch. She showed us her room since Anderson had not seen it. Then we switched some clothes-she had Campbell's sweatshirt and we delivered a Christmas sweatshirt. I then had to run to the grocery store. Poor Anderson stayed in the car but our cell phones don't work great in that part of Arkadelphia so he was in the car the entire time without any thing to do. We then stopped at Subway to eat lunch-Anderson and I both had a terryaki sandwich along with a cookie.
Robby couldn't leave town until he picked up Campbell and Keaton, so Anderson and I had some time to kill. We went to Walmart, and we pretty much walked up and down every aisle. We found him some Christmas presents and a few stocking things as well. He got a little bit tired near the end of our shopping adventure, but I think that he did enjoy it.
We went to Degray and checked in before finding our site. Anderson and I only had to wait about 10 minutes before Robby and everyone else arrived. Once Robby parked, we sat up camp-chairs, tv, lights, tents. The girls watched the sunset and took a few photos-it was absolutely beautiful out. I just wish that it was a little bit warmer tonight.
I heated up manicotti for supper. This took a little bit, but while it was cooking Graham watched football outside while Campbell and Keaton hung out in the hammocks. We all ate, and that is a meal that everyone loved.
Graham didn't last too long outside without a fire, and by 8 we were all in the cozy camper. It has been a perfect day around here.
November 13, 2024
- I told Robby that some days I feel like I have been running a race and today is one of those days. Our school day went very smoothly, but still lasted forever-or at least it felt like it.
- I didn't walk this morning so that did throw me off a little bit. It was finely misting so I decided that I sure wasn't going to walk Bentley because there is nothing worse than wet dog. After standing outside for a minute, I decided that if I went on a walk, I would be smelling like wet dog too. Instead I cooked up some hamburger meat for later this weekend.
- Then I woke up my people, and we started on school. I tried to work with Campbell and Graham as early as I could since they had to leave for work a bit earlier than usual since it is a Wednesday. Then I moved on to everyone else-by the time I got to Anderson, we just decided to do it next week.
- I also had to get everyone's school ready for next week so that always takes me a bit of time. I love doing it because I do love seeing how they are finishing things, but it can get a bit confusing as well so I am always happy to finish it.
- This afternoon I spent a good deal of time loading up the camper. Anderson brought Bentley out there with me, and she was as happy as she could be just laying on the couch watching me work. The camper is her happy place for sure.
- When Campbell and Graham came home, we left for church and the library. Anderson and Graham's group was all over the church today moving boxes so I tried to snap Anderson's picture but he moved to quickly for me. Campbell earned a 5 dollar gift card from her teachers for reading her Bible throughout the month of October so she was excited about that.
- Anderson and Campbell went to ChickFila while the rest of us came home and had leftovers. Robby was busy making cookies, and then we did some more loading of the camper! Now, I have had my hot chocolate and plan on sitting right here in this chair for the next 10 minutes!
November 12, 2024
- Some days are just busy and today was one of those days. We did our school work this morning-I usually work with Campbell each day right after I finish with Whitman. However, today, I worked with Anderson and Graham before her. Then Keaton was waiting on my to go with Grannymom, so I helped her next which caused Campbell to be a bit on the fussy side.
- Campbell does read the blog, but I will say it again she was grouchy about having to wait. And then Robby called needing help with groceries so she had to wait again. It didn't take us long to do all of our work though so that did cheer her up.
- For some reason today, I was running behind in everything that I did. Whitman and I didn't finish all of his school work until about 5 and I never made it to the camper to start putting things in it. Hopefully, I will be able to do that tomorrow.
- I did make 2 recipes of manicotti-I wanted to have enough, but I guess that I don't usually double the recipe. With 2 recipes I had 3 and a half pans which is good, but it is also a little much. Thankfully, there is room in the freezers.
- Making the 2 recipes of manicotti took me nearly 2 hours which is part of the reason I was running behind today. It didn't help that Graham was painting during all of this and Campbell and Anderson were shooting bb guns in the yard. The other day a sign fell off the wall and then was broken so they made use of it as a target this afternoon-even though they are all bigger, I still can't have nice things.
- Keaton left first this afternoon to go and help Grannymom with some yard work. Anderson was not too far behind when he left to go to Top Golf with some of the Upward helpers. Then I left to go to class meeting.
- Robby brought home pizza tonight and Campbell was just finished making brownies when I came in this evening.
November 11, 2024
- Monday school is always fun-actually, getting everyone up on a Monday morning is the most challenging part. I was struggling myself to get up and was running a bit behind. Thankfully, Bentley cooperated on our walk, and we made up some time so I wasn't as late when I tried to wake up the kids.
- I read with Whitman and Keaton before starting to work with everyone else. I worked with Anderson and then Graham next which didn't take too long. Campbell and Keaton both had lots of things for me to grade so theirs always takes a bit longer.
- Campbell is going to start a new math in January, and that will be a big challenge for her since it uses a video that she will have to watch each day. She will abhor the video I believe, but I also know that she will learn a lot so we will press on in trying something new.
- Anderson started on his self portrait for his art class today while Graham will finish his by Wednesday-at least that it what he has told me! I don't think that it will take either of them very long, but artsy things aren't really their forte (or maybe just artsy things that they don't want to do).
- Graham and Campbell went to work this afternoon, and this evening Robby and I ran to do some mystery shops around town. We even came home with more Panda Express which is what we had for lunch yesterday-but the kids devoured it when we did come home.
- Now the house is super quiet-everyone is off in their spots while I am cuddled in my chair blogging and considering getting myself some hot chocolate or some ice cream.
November 10, 2024
- Robby was up early this Sunday morning to cut his hair before church so I woke up the kids-or tried to wake them up. Keaton had made muffins to make for her breakfast this morning, but I felt a little guilty that the others didn't have muffins too, so I whipped them up some and stuck them all in the oven at the same time.
- We went to church in two cars this morning so the kids could come home early while Robby and I ran to pick up lunch. Our Panda Express took forever to get-long enough that we abandoned me running into Kroger before coming home.
- Once we were home for lunch, the kids devoured the panda express, but we still had quite a few leftovers. Before too long, the big boys left to play basketball with some of their friends. They were gone most of the afternoon.
- I took Campbell to her Dgroup and did my grocery store running around after dropping her off. I would have come home and turned around and taken Keaton to her Dgroup but it was cancelled. Soon though it was time to take Keaton and Whitman to their lifegroup tonight.
- We dropped them off, and then Robby and I went to our Sunday school fellowship. They had a campfire, and it was a pretty perfect evening. Robby and I stayed incredibly too late.
- When we came home though, Graham was just sticking some cookies in the oven. They are still baking so I guess we will stay up to see how they turned out. He didn't use a recipe and instead he just asked chat GPT for his recipe!
November 9, 2024
- Robby and I stayed in bed a good while this morning-I would have preferred to have been in the camper because we would have been able to hear the rain falling. He left to run some errands, and I stayed home to work on the laundry, dishes, and printing some math for Campbell in January.
- Eventually the kids started stirring-at least some of them. The big boys both tried to sign up teams for basketball this year, but even though they signed up before they did last year, it was full. I wish that they had that to do because I think that it makes some days a bit long for them. Really, a few days lately have been long for me too.
- Keaton, Campbell, and I went to meet Robby to get gas and stop at Costco. It was raining pretty good while we were at Costco, but we enjoyed walking around with half of Little Rock. We did leave with a Christmas gift for Robby along with sitting down to share same cookies.
- We grabbed some food from Robby's car, and then my car headed home while Robby went to see Grannymom and Grandpa. Once at home, we divided up the food.
- I read some and had a bit of a nap while waiting on Robby to come home. When he did come home later in the evening, we again divided up the food that he had. The kids ate while we had some leftovers.
- Now people are showering for tomorrow, and we are watching the Hogs play basketball. I am reading a short little book now so hopefully, I can finish it tonight.
November 8, 2024
- This was a wonderfully slow Friday. Graham had to take a math test this morning so I woke him up early. Then I woke up Keaton and Campbell because they had asked to go shopping.
- Last night we were discussing out plans while Whitman was sitting nearby on the couch. We said something about going to TJ Max, and he quickly said that he would go to. We all looked at him in disbelief so he added that he would pay.
- We continued to stare at him in confusion until Campbell asked, what do you think TJ Max is. The boy though it was a movie theater. Eventually, we did figure out that he confused it with Cinemax. Needless to say, he did not join us today.
- Keaton wanted some pajamas from 5 Below, but the one that we went to didn't have them. They did have a few boxes on the floor which we slyly opened and looked through. The pajamas were not in the boxes, so we moved on to TJMax.
- I really have so much fun shopping with those girls. I bought one thing for their stockings there, but we didn't find anything that we had to have so our next stop was HTeaO. Graham had a free drink that we picked up for him, Campbell bought a tea for herself. And on our way home, we went by ChickFilA to pick up the rest of our free nuggets.
- Campbell and Graham soon left for work, so I read to Keaton and Whitman and checked some of her school work from yesterday. Other than that, I was not productive during the rain this afternoon. I did read some and chat with the kids, but other than that the couch has been my spot for most of the day.
- Robby came home after everyone else with some supper options. We all ate and then the kids scattered-Robby then had to work on Campbell's new phone to set it all up. Now I am again debating between hot chocolate or ice cream.
November 7, 2024
- Graham was already out of bed, showered, and visiting with Whitman who was also awake early. I hollered at Graham to be careful on his way to school, and then I went on my walk. He didn't come home for a while, but at class today they just worked on their homework. That is fine and all, but it was another waste of a trip.
- Keaton and Campbell were the next ones to go to church for Mother's Day Out this morning. Keaton had even packed her bubbles in her bag to help entertain her group. Campbell though wasn't too thrilled about going this morning, but she has been without a phone for a few days so she is getting in a bit of a funk-her phone is broken (no fault of her own), but at least she has her ipad.
- With 3 kiddos gone for a good deal of the morning, you would have thought I could have been more productive. I guess I did mark a few things off of my list, but still I should have had time to read and eat bon bon today, but it just didn't happen.
- Graham came home, and we did some math work. Then Robby called saying that he had a flat. He had to change a suburban flat on the side of i-40. We have AAA and all those things, but he was able to do it himself.
- He spent the rest of the the afternoon getting a few new tires for the suburban. They wanted for him to replace the spare too, but he said that he hopes to never needs it again. Once he came home, he still had to put the old, but still usable, spare back on the car.
- Whitman, Campbell, Keaton, and I played a few rounds of Mario Kart before all going downstairs and finding supper. After eating, everyone spread out, but Robby and I did make some cookies before finding our spots on the couch.
November 6, 2024
- After staying up a little bit late last night, I was still the first one awake today. I did my morning chores and took my walk before waking up the rest of the crew. I know that I have mentioned it before but Campbell is my most faithful getter-upper every morning. Today though Anderson was actually downstairs before Campbell.
- We did the school thing this morning, and then I started work on Christmas. Today was the kitchen Christmas tree. I used to love it, but I am not crazy about that skinny little tree anymore. I wish that it was a little fuller, but it will do. Keaton told me that she wishes that we didn't have themed trees, but I still love my themed trees very much.
- After taking my afternoon walk, I finished doing school with Whitman. Graham and Campbell were already at work this afternoon. When they came home, they didn't have long before we left again for church.
- Anderson came a few minutes later with Whitman, but the rest of us left early to go to the library on the way. I'm not sure why they all want to leave early with me since we usually arrive at the same time as Anderson.
- Everyone enjoys Wednesday night church for the most part, and the conversations on the way home are why I keep going. After church Anderson and Campbell went to ChickFilA but now we are all home waiting on some brownies to cook.
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