- Today's school went smoothly for everyone-at least I think that it did. I can safely say that we are in the school groove. As soon as school is over every day, I pile up all of the books that we read each morning, and then I lay out everyone's piles of books to check everyone's stuff.
- I had a fairly long list today, but I zoomed through it-nothing was major, and I never put anything on my list that takes more than 10 minutes. I like to work in small chunks of time. Now, I write out my list each day on a piece of notebook paper, but on the side I also have my monthly to do list which also gets written out each day. This does help me remember what I all I have to do each month-not that all of it gets done!
- Graham went to work while Anderson went to work later in the afternoon. Keaton wanted to go to Defy so I took her and Whitman, They stayed for over an hour jumping, and Whitman's face was as red as a beat when we finally did leave.
- On the way home, Shannon wrote and told us about ChickFilA's deal of the day-so we scrapped supper plans picked up the kids' supper from there. Robby had a mystery shop at another restaurant so we ate there on our way to ChickFIlA.
- Back at home tonight, I threw a few things in the laundry basket to take camping and tried to pick up the kitchen, but now I am in my chair with my blanket trying to decide if I want to take a nap before bed or if I want to read some.
September 30, 2024
September 29, 2024
- This morning was church morning which is the earliest we all ever have to leave during the week. Most everyone wakes up without any problems-except for Anderson. He is just a heavy sleeper, and his alarm clock does not do the trick. Basically, he will need all afternoon classes in college. I guess we will need to start working on him waking up some how!
- I was able to share some of my sour dough starter with a friend. She was super excited about getting it so that was fun. Maybe she will inspire me to bake a few things with mine because I am about ready to throw mine away. It has been almost a year, and we have had fun, but it is just one more thing to take care of.
- It just seems like a few days ago that we were in Reagan's senior Sunday school class meeting, but today was the day that we went to Anderson's meeting. They basically introduce the teachers and tell what they are going to do. Their class is so good-so good that we wish that we could go to it. They don't mess around in there-those kids get years worth of knowledge in just a few weeks.
- We picked up McDonalds on the way home this afternoon since we didn't go to Nonna and Pops'-we had been there last night. We all ate, and then Robby and I ran a few errands and picked up some groceries that we needed.
- When we came home, I had a nap while Robby worked in the yard. Then I took Campbell and Keaton to work at church while the big boys went to Rock Creek. Robby and I then started on supper-dorito casserole which Campbell has been asking for and snicker doodle cobbler which was pretty good.
- Not it is super late-I have chatted with most of the kids this evening-so now I'm late for my blog and for my shower.
September 28, 2024
- This morning started off early at Raymar for Anderson, Campbell, Keaton, and me. I was cozy in the car but decided that since it was a bit chilly out, then I would need to make some coffee and have the hot chocolate ready so I jumped out of the car and went to work.
- People love them some coffee-we stayed busy during the first half of the game working plus we even sold out of most of the ChickFilA before the game was over. I sure needed my worker people.
- After the rush calmed down, it was a much more pleasant morning. Robby, Whitman, and Bentley showed up for the rest of the games. Usually in the mornings, Bentley does not jump out of bed, but Robby said that this morning she did fly out of the bed when he asked if she wanted to go in the car.
- When the games were over, we all came home. Robby and I did go to Kroger on the way. We also picked up 3 free crumble cookies along with a gallon on free lemonade so we were pleased with that.
- The football game was on all afternoon-and there were good times, but mostly bad times during it. At one point, Campbell said that the hogs were doing better when she was upstairs, and I told her that they were also doing better when I was asleep! I guess that she should have gone upstairs, and I should have continued my nap.
- After the game, we hurried over to Nonna and Pops' house to celebrate Keaton, Robby, and Jason's birthdays. (We celebrated Jason's birthday a little early.) Nonna and Pops had pizza and a beautiful cake. We visited and then opened presents after cake.
- Back at home, the kids all cycled through the showers while I worked on next month's plans.
September 27, 2024-Happy 13th Birthday Keaton!
- This was kind of a low key birthday for Keaton today. I did made her chocolate chip scones for breakfast. I also made a few loafs of sourdough sandwich bread. It actually wasn't my best, but they are mostly all gone, and I am saving one last loaf for grilled cheese tomorrow.
- I started on my walk this morning with Bentley, but she could hear a chainsaw somewhere nearby. She was having none of that and would freeze whenever she heard it. I tried walking one way and then the other-but nope, she wasn't moving. I eventually did get her back to the house and continued my walk. A neighbor stopped me though and asked about my dog. I guess he was worried, but I had to explain that she is just chicken!
- The morning went by quickly-I did do some work with Whitman that we didn't get to yesterday Plus I read with Keaton and Whitman. We didn't read much, but we did finish one book so that is good. Some day I should take a pictures of the books that we read from each morning during our reading-it is at least 2 feet high.
- Soon Graham was leaving for work, and I had myself a nap. We then ran to the trampoline park for a little bit with Campbell, Keaton, and Whitman. They enjoyed themselves especially since Robby let them get a treat there and pick up a drink on the way home. Keaton made sure to use her free birthday starbucks drink.
- We weren't home for long, when Robby and I left again for a few grocery stores. Then I left him at Kroger while I went into the Costco to pick up supper-pizzas, chicken bakes, and of course cookies. I do think that made everyone happy, so they ate-and now they have all disappeared!
September 26, 2024
- I thought that this morning might be a little slow for me since Robby took Campbell and Keaton to work. Yep, we decided that the 12 year old and 14 year old needed to work a day a week. Actually, they were asked to help in Mother's Day Out at church so they volunteered to do that. They are earning a little bit of money for camps on the days that they do this which is a win for us.
- Since they would be gone most of the day, that meant that they had to have their school work finished today or at least some of it done and finish the rest tomorrow. Motivation is an amazing thing, and both of those girls finished without any problem. Of course, this makes me wonder if they need more work since they finished 5 days of work in 3 days.
- Actually, today when I was pulling out their school work, I wondered if I was going to need to come up with more for Campbell to do next semester. Her language arts comes in 10 little books for her to finish this year-she starts book 4 next week so she is way ahead of where I was hoping.
- Graham went to his math class at school today. When he came home, I offered to help him do tomrorrow's math today. It was just 30 problems but each problem had 8 steps so it took forever. Once he knew what he was doing, I was able to wander off and do other things, but gracious me!
- Soon Anderson was having to leave for his class-this was the last time that I will make him go to class. Sometimes I think going to class is a good thing, but really when it is just wasting time there is no reason.
- Robby brought the girls home, and they had a good day. I think that they both really enjoyed it. I know that they can be hard workers, and I assume that they are because they do keep getting callbacks to help keep preschool kids-they are actually keeping kids on Sunday night as well.
- The afternoon flew by and soon Robby and I were taking Campbell to practice tonight. We ran a few little errands, but mostly we just wandered around Walmart. Then when she did finish practice, we hurried home to eat. I think that we were all starving!
September 25, 2024
- We did our school work this morning-I wasn't finished as early today as yesterday, but I still was able to get everything accomplished on my list....though, honestly, I'm making my lists shorter these days.
- I am slowly working through my attic upstairs. This is the attic that I just throw things into when we are done with them. That actually makes it sound like I have mounds of trash in that attic-it isn't that bad at all. The attic is a mess, but I do continue to make it better-I just need some large boxes to put my goodwill piles into. For some reason we never have the right size boxes that I need.
- Graham went to work this afternoon and was gone for a long time. He did hurry home so he could get to church on time. I went first with the girls so we could go to the library-I even had to go inside which Campbell and Keaton acted like was horrible, but it didn't take me long at all to come out with plenty of new books.
- Then at church tonight, I was comparing book notes and added lots more of book to my list to read. When church was over, and my reading list was full, Graham, Campbell, and Anderson went to ChickFila on the way home, while Keaton and Whitman just ate a quesadilla.,
- Robby and I ran to the Wilsons for a few minutes this evening. We visited for a little bit before coming home. Now, it is bedtime which is the time of the day that the kids seem to get a little crazy!
September 24, 2024
- I heard that someone was awake and moving around before I climbed out of bed. I did my morning things, and then decided that I should go and just make sure that it was Graham already upstairs taking a shower. It wasn't Graham, but instead it was Whitman getting a little ipad time before it was time for school to start.
- Graham soon went to school-he doesn't mind it too much, and his teacher does actually teach the next lesson. (And he probably likes to drive which is another reason that he doesn't mind driving there and back.)
- However, Anderson comes home frustrated each school day. Last year, I think that teacher tried to help them, but this year it is like he is in a study hall. They have watched the teachers videos a few times-which he could do at home. Today, he said that no one was really working-this really only bothers me because I wasted money on signing him up for class.
- I have slowly learned what concurrent classes we need to take at the co-op. I am down to just math and history, but I just might be convinced to not take either one the next time we need them. Or really, maybe I should just get me a job there!
- Anyway, the rest of our school day went fine-though Whitman is still dragging. Today, I was cleaning the attic by 11:30 so I am not really sure what happened. I still had to work with Whitman but we got that done early as well.
- Keaton wanted a new pair of jeans, but the only ones she could find were online where she would have to pay 10 dollars to return. She suggested that we go to Platos to look around. Campbell, Keaton, and I went today.
- Keaton found her some jeans, but Campbell didn't find anything. I looked so hard for Campbell something that I found myself something-of course mine was 70% off so I just spent 3 dollars. After Platos, Keaton ran into Baskin Robbins where she got a birthday scoop of ice cream. And if you remember, she doesn't like ice cream-but Campbell and I do!
- Then we went to Nothing Bundt Cake and picked up Keaton and Robby's free little cakes. Then we ran to Walmart to but a candle for a party Campbell is going to along with some avacados for her to make guacomole.
- Finally our last stop was Sephora for more birthday freebies for Keaton. We then came home for just a few minutes before I had to leave again with Campbell for her soccer practice. I could have come home, but why and I could have gone to a store, but again why. So I just sat in the car and read and listened to my book. It was pretty pleasant out so I enjoyed it.
September 23, 2024
- For a school day it went fairly smoothly. I actually thought that I was finished early when I looked at the clock and saw that it was already 1:30. Though I did grab Whitman then to work with me before I went on my afternoon walk. The days are long right now, but overall school is going fairly smoothly-though Keaton and Campbell are about throw a kink in some of our school days.
- Graham did his school pretty quickly today so he would have time for his run and shower before he had to go to work. Anderson and I worked on a scholarship this afternoon for a little bit, but I honestly feel like I could counsel people on having a senior and all of the things that there are to do. I don't have it all figured out, obviously, but I have an incredible list happening!
- Whitman did not want to work together this afternoon. We usually do 3 extra math pages each day so I was going to be generous and skip one. After I put one over to the side to skip, he took his pencil and started writing down answers to some of the problems. This makes me a little bit crazy, but we have been working on percents on this extra math-and he does them in his head. I have to write out the problem and then solve it to even know if he is correct. For example, 10% of what number is 7? I don't know! But Whitman does. Or 35 is 7% of what number? I don't know! But Whitman does.
- Soon it was time for everyone to leave-Anderson had to be at Raymar early for football so Keaton, Campbell, and Whitman went early with him. Robby and I actually left a few minutes before they did for a few mystery shops.
- Then we all pitched in and worked the concession stand during the two football games. My kiddos so love being at Raymar-well, I am not really sure if Graham loves it though! The rest of them do.
- When we came home, most everyone had already eaten, but Robby had some chicken to grill up. He did that even though it was dark outside. We chopped it up and got it ready for another day's supper. Now, I am trying to finish this blog and maybe read for a little bit before bed.
September 22, 2024-Happy 50th Birthday Robby!
- This morning when Robby woke up the bar was full of cards and even a cake. (Actually, the cards and cake made their appearance a bit after Robby was up, but it was still before we left for church.) Anderson and Whitman had made Robby a cake last night, and Keaton iced the cake. Keaton and Whitman made a giant card while the others all made him cards as well.
- We took a few birthday pictures, and then hurried to get doughnuts Graham had been craving doughnuts, so Robby used his birthday as an excuse to make Graham happy. They were pretty good, and since the doughnut shop is so close to church, the kids were scarffing them down on our way.
- I had worship care so Robby was on his own during church, but Graham and Whitman did sit with him. Reagan went to Third again today for church-this was her first time to repeat a church since she has been at school.
- Robby and I met back up in Sunday school, and afterwards we waited on the kids to show up from their classes. Then we headed to Grannymom's house for Sunday lunch. She had some yummy food plus oreo delight which is a favorite of all of us-well, except for my two non ice cream eaters (who would have thought that Robby and I would have children who do not like ice cream.)
- We then came home for the afternoon. Robby ended up doing some mystery shopping with Tony while I had myself a nap. Then I left with Keaton and took her to her Dgroup at Starbucks before taking her and her friends to their life group at a house nearby.
- I sat in the car and read my book some-but apparently I can't read for an hour without getting distracted by sleep and by my phone. Anderson took Whitman to his lifegroup, and then went to his own group with Graham and Campbell.
- When I came home from taking Keaton, I had a list of things to do-and gracious, I forgot to make a dessert for Robby tonight. He had his cake that the kids made, but I had been saving this dessert for a while to make tonight. I didn't have vanilla ice cream so I didn't really plan ahead, but it is on my list to accomplish sometime soon.
- Shannon came over and met up with Tony. Then for supper, we had all of their fast food mystery shop food-it was a true smorgasbord with lots of choices. It was all fine, and then we ate the kids cake. It was pretty good as well.
- Now it is the saddest part of the week-Sunday night! I have school all out for the week and have lots of plans for tomorrow so we shall see what all gets done!
September 21, 2024
- Anderson had to be at Raymar earlier today than last week, and since it was just 15 minutes earlier than the week before, I figured that I would still go with him. Of course Campbell and Keaton love being at Raymar and love going early. They don't mind getting up to go, and as soon as we pull up, they hop out of the car.
- Meanwhile, I sit in the car until the last possibly minute. I did have my book to read, and it was kind of pleasant until it started getting too warm in the car. It was a hot day, and even though Raymar usually has crazy wind, we don't get any of that in the concession stand so it did get a little warm today. I figure (and hope) that this is the last hot day of the football season though.
- Campbell and Keaton worked the concession stand, but Whitman also worked-and man, it is so good for him. Having to talk to people, deal with the cash register, and making change-and he is doing so well. We have practiced some at home, but I really think that he also enjoys it.
- When the games were over, Robby and I headed to Hot Springs to go and have a tamale at McClards. We thought about just getting a half, but we ended up getting the whole thing. This was a good thing because we ate pretty much all of it.We then did a few mystery shops to pay for our tamale before heading home.
- We did stop to get a peanut butter shake on the way home-and we were disappointed. They kind of lost of our order, so we had to wait a while, but then our shake was more like chocolate milk instead of ice cream. I mean, we still drank every bit of it, but it just wasn't what we had been envisioning.
- We made it home in time to watch the rest of the Razorback game. I had listened to some in the car, so I read my book until I could keep my eyes open no longer. Then I did get back up to hear the last few minutes of the game.
- Now, people are showering, Graham just finished a run, and I'm trying to figure out what I should do for the rest of the evening-be productive or no?
September 20, 2024
- I had little on my list today, but I was busy the entire day long. This morning I worked on the normal things, and then I pulled out school for the next week. I hate this job, and I love this job all at the same time.
- I have become so much more efficient at this plus I love seeing how far we have come and how much more we have to do during the year. I also really love how things look when the school areas have been straightened. However, even though it is easier the older the kids get, it still takes me a good little while to do this.
- Graham had a bit of math to do today, and Whitman sweet talked me into letting him skip spelling-I'm a softee! We did do spelling every day this summer so a few breaks during the year won't actually kill us.
- Graham went to work around one which was about the same time that we started our new to us game-Risk. Campbell, Keaton, Anderson, Whitman, and I played and apparently total domination of the world takes a little bit of time-we stopped at the 3 hour mark! Anderson or Whitman would have probably won the game. Campbell and I had already lost when they did quit, and Keaton had a slight chance of winning.
- After the game, I worked on a few things, and then Robby came in with supper. We had a snack before running to Sams to pick up some chicken. We stopped at Walmart on the way home. Then after a quick bite to eat, we ran over to see Annie for a little bit.
- Now I'm cuddled up in my chair finishing this blog and about to read my book some-or take a nap-or have some hot chocolate.
September 19, 2024
- I hit snooze one too many times this morning so I was scrambling around. I was just about to head upstairs to make sure that Graham was up when he walked through the living room. He was off to his class before I came back from my walk.
- I read to Whitman and Keaton for a little bit this morning, and then everyone started on their school work. I knew that we didn't have much time this morning so I marked quite a few things off of their lists because I wanted to be mostly done.
- Graham, Campbell, Keaton, and Whitman all decided to come with me to visit Reagan today. Anderson opted to stay home-in hindsight, that was a good thing. We couldn't have gotten him back in time for work at Raymar, and he would have had to miss his class (which probably would have been fine.)
- We left the house around 11 and picked up Grannymom and Grandpa and Nonna and Pops. We pretty much filled the big van up. We zoomed on down to Arkadelphia without any problem. We found a great parking spot at Reagan's dorm.
- When Reagan walked out the door to meet us, a girl walked by and said "hey, Reagan." I guess a few people know her name. We all walked up to her room-it was fairly tight with 10 of us in her room, but we were all able to look around. It was neat, and it was pretty much just like we left it on move in day.
- We then drove around campus, and Reagan pointed out all the buildings. Then we went to Walking Taco to eat. It was kind of like an authentic Tacos for Life. I think that everyone enjoyed their food. Whitman ordered street corn, which he didn't know what it was and didn't like, but we all liked it. The food was good, and Reagan told us all about her classes.
- We then drove back to campus, and she walked around with Graham, Campbell, and Keaton for a little bit. While she did that, the rest of us drove through down town Arkadelphia. We found us a little bakery and stopped. Virginia bought us some cookies which we devoured after dropping Reagan off.
- It was a good thing that we had those cookies, because our one hour car ride took us about 3 hours to make it home. The interstate pretty much stopped, and we creeped to an exit which we took. We criscrossed through all kinds of back roads and I even turned around twice in the middle of the streets.
- Graham had to be at Raymar at 4:30 which wouldn't have been a problem at all, but we managed to get him there almost at 5. (He was fine with this though.) When we did eventually pull back on the interstate, we met right up with a big bus that we had been right beside when the traffic had stopped-so all of our backroadding didn't get us ahead any, but at least we were moving.
- The company was good, and the conversation was good, and the air mostly worked so we still had a good time on the way home. The only catch to our late afternoon was that Keaton's birthday party was tonight at 6.
- For a little bit, I was sweating it wondering if we would get home before her people started arriving or if we would just turn it into a surprise party for her! Thankfully, we made it home about 5:15 which gave us plenty of time to get things done in the house
- Keaton's people started arriving a little bit before 6, and Robby had already come home with supper for everyone-panda express-he had a lot of food for everyone so much so that the when the boys did come home they had lots of options left for them.
- The girls played games, opened present, had cake, jumped on the trampoline-I think that they all had a really good time. It was quite noisy for sure, but I think that Keaton had a blast. I'm so glad that we did make it home for her birthday party! So it was pretty perfect day all around!
September 18, 2024
- Wednesday's are kind of nice since I don't have to think about making sure that Graham is awake to leave for Comm Central. He usually wakes up on his own, but I still double check which throws my already tight morning schedule off by a few minutes.
- We zoomed through our pile of books that we are reading. Keaton could care less, but Whitman does remember pretty much everything that we read about-especially if it interests him.
- After that, we all started on our morning work. The kids all seemed to be ready to work with me earlier than usual-for example, the other day I was just getting around to working with Anderson at 1, but today it was before noon. That just means that I have probably forgotten something major.
- This afternoon Keaton and Campbell worked hard on Keaton's balloon arch for her party tomorrow. Keaton has prepped the bonus room, and I have been trying to prep the rest of the house. I'm pretty sure that a bunch of 12 and 13 year old girls will not care about how clean my potties are, but those are the things I have been doing,
- Campbell and Robby went to eat a late lunch this afternoon before church. They made it back in time for Campbell to drive me to the library on the way to church. I don't know when I will let her drive to church on a Wednesday night at 5:00. I would prefer not to drive to church then so she sure won't be doing anytime soon.
- After church tonight, Anderson, Graham, and Campbell went to ChickFilA while I ran by there with Keaton and Whitman. We all free nuggets so that was our suppers. I have just had my hot chocolate, and now I'm going to make my plans for tomorrow.
September 17, 2024
- Graham went to his class first this morning and came home frustrated since his teacher didn't show for the first half and then told them to just work on their study guide when she did arrive. This would even be fine, but Graham has done the study guide and even the test so it was a waste of his time.
- I believe that Anderson's class today wasn't much better. He said they just sat there working on their assignments which he has already completed. Apparently, I am paying for study halls which doesn't thrill me at all.
- School went well this morning, but since I had to leave at 11 things were fairly wild. Campbell and I did a little bit of her work last night to help lighten the load today, but everyone except Anderson still needed to work with me this afternoon.
- I met a friend this afternoon, and we went to see another friend who had just had a baby. It has been a long time since we have had buddies having babies, but we both enjoyed holding that tiny baby.
- While we were gone, Campbell and Keaton went shopping with Nonna. They hit up some boutiques in Bryant, and then moved on to Little Rock. I do believe that their only purchases were some make up, necklaces, and some gummy worms! This girls had lots of fun and so enjoyed shopping.
- When they came home, I was able to finish school with them. I finished school with Keaton just as it was time to take Campbell to soccer practice. While she was there, Keaton made baked potatoes for our supper. Since we were eating a 9, we pretty much devoured those potatoes!
September 16, 2024
- It was a rainy Monday morning here which threw me for a loop when I went to walk Bentley. I had stared at the window and thought that it was just wet outside. I got her all ready but did take her out of the garage door so we would have less grass to walk over.
- When I got to the edge of the garage, I could hear the rain beating down on the shed so I just brushed Bentley and bit and we came in. This happened to me again this afternoon-I was about to take a walk again, but the rain was so fine that I couldn't see it so I opted not to go. Also, I didn't want to return wet and smelling like a wet dog.
- Graham actually smelt worse than a wet dog this evening when he returned from a 10 mile run. I'm not sure why he chose to run 10 miles, but he has now had at least 2 suppers tonight which I am sure that he has needed.
- We did school first thing this morning, but gracious Whitman isn't moving fast at all. He is getting done eventually, and he's doing math and most everything else by himself so I can't really complain at all.
- Graham had work this afternoon, and he was supposed to go to Raymar for football pictures along with Anderson who also was to go out there for practice. Those things were both cancelled, so there was a little more time this evening for them.
- Robby and I ran a few errands this afternoon and evening. We picked up a few items for Keaton's birthday party which is happening Thursday night. Then we picked up some Sonic burgers for some people's supper.
- Now, I'm making a school plan for tomorrow since it will be a hectic afternoon, and I hope that I have a little bit of time to read my book tonight.
September 15, 2024
- It was another good Sunday-and a busy day. I am kind of glad that this day is over for sure. We did the church thing this morning. Then on the way to Nonna and Pops' house for Sunday lunch, Graham asked what I thought they would have for lunch.
- I told him that since we had eaten BBQ last night and since I had BBQ to take to Nonna in the car with me, then we were probably going to have BBQ for lunch-and sure enough, that is what we had. It was delicious though, and we all enjoyed it. Actually, my favorite was Nonna's baked beans-she can make the best baked beans. Keaton and I enjoyed dipping them up with our chips.
- After Nonna's house, the boys all went home while the rest of us went to see Campbell's first soccer game. My Campbell played hard, but the score did not reflect her effort alone-it was 2-6 or maybe the other score was even higher-either way, it wasn't great.
- The weather wasn't great either-I guess it wasn't super hot so that was good. Instead it was super overcast and spitting rain off and on. Now, at half time the sun did come out, and Pops and I walked to the cars to get our sunglasses-and of course, by the time that we made it back to the field, it was raining again.
- After the game, we hurried home so the girls could ride to Rock Creek with Graham. Anderson soon left for his senior lifegroup. Then we had about 20 minutes at home before Robby and I left for our Sunday school class fellowship. This was our first adult thing like this in a very long time, and we had a good time.
- The power was off at home when we came home so all the kids were in the living room. I have lit a few candles, and really, I do love power out days. Anderson is on his way home, and I do think that the power will be on around midnight or so-at least that is what they say. However, that does mean that I may not have my clean dishes and clean laundry ready when I wake up in the morning which isn't the best way to start a Monday!
September 14, 2024
- Today was the first football game back at Raymar. Campbell and Keaton really enjoy going early with Anderson, and since I needed to be there early as well, though not quite as early as him, we all rode together.
- This morning was pretty crazy in the concession stand getting everything ready for the day. I think we were struggling since everything was new, and we had to open everything up. Once we had things a bit organized, everything went much smoother. I'm not sure how things went on the football fields-Anderson said he thought everything went well.
- Keaton and I had a baby shower to go to in the middle of Raymar. We were only gone for about an hour, but we were able to visit some and even had some delicious food before returning.
- I had scheduled Keaton and Campbell in the concession stand for a good bit, but they enjoy visiting more than actually helping. However, I also had Whitman in there for a few hours, and that boy did so well. He certainly needs practice talking to people so it was good for him.
- Robby smoked some meat all day so he left Raymar first to go and check on that. When the rest of us left, we had to run to Old Navy and the library on the way home. We were home in plenty of time to watch the football game this afternoon - or snooze through most of the football game.
- I did get up to help Keaton make chocolate chip cookies. She is a pro, but I did try to help as much as I could. Then Robby's meat was ready so some folks had a sandwich then, and the rest waited for us to run and get gas and pick up more buns.
- I made it home just a few minutes before Robby did, and for some reason I decided that I needed to run the garbage disposal. Well, you can probably guess-it didn't work. So Robby spent the next 2 or 3 hours on it. He did eventually get it running again, but we noticed a drip. Then we felt my dishtowels underneath-they were wet which meant that the drip had been happening.
- We watched a few youtube videos and were able to take the disposal off. Apparently, once it was opened we could look for cracks and seal them. Without first cleaning off the layers of gunk, we couldn't see any cracks. Robby eventually just decided to order a new one-a new one exactly like the one that we have so hopefully we can reinstall it fairly easily. We are down to half a kitchen sink now for most of the week, but that should be manageable.
- It is now almost bedtime-tomorrow is a busy day with church, Campbell's first soccer game, a Sunday school fellowship for Robby and me, and Rock Creek for the kids.
September 13, 2024
- Robby and I were able to talk to Reagan very late last night-this was really our first time to chat with her. It sounded like she had had a wonderful birthday. And the pictures show that she has found a few friends which makes us happy.
- Graham was the only one that had any school to do today-he did get his math finished, but he had one other things which I'm not sure if it happened. He did go to work this afternoon plus he went to a Baptist Prep football game tonight which is where he currently is-or more correctly, he is at the 5th quarter after party at a nearby church.
- Anderson did have school as well today, but he opted out of it and said that he would catch up on Monday. We went to church for a few hours to work this morning, but he opted to not go to the ball game with Graham tonight.
- Campbell, Keaton, and Whitman slept most of the morning away today. Nothing makes Whitman happier than a slow and restful day, but nothing makes Campbell and Keaton crazier than a slow and restful day. They did both get to work at church tonight so that did help a little bit, but they walked around all day telling me that they were bored and that there was no food in this house. They would tell me me we had no lunch food-and I would suggest a sandwich, but I was told that wasn't the right lunch food. They would tell me we don't have any fruit, and I would suggest an apple, but I was told that wasn't the right fruit.
- This evening Robby and I went to eat at Marketplace Grill in Conway. It was good-and Robby did like his pasts, but it just wasn't as magnificent as we remember. Now, the chocolate mess was still good, but a bowl of Blue Bell is just really good too.
September 12, 2024-Happy 19th Birthday Reagan
- It seems that every day has been busy lately-today was no exception, and I didn't even finish my list today. Most things can wait until tomorrow though; the main thing that we have to do each day is school and that happened.
- Well, it kind of happened-I did let the big boys skip their Comm Central classes today. They say that they aren't really doing much in those classes at school. I think that they enjoyed the break from school, and today was a day that it was nice to stay at home and not have to drive in this messy rain.
- I had a doctor's appointment this afternoon which I went to, and when I came home, I had to finish Whitman's school work and then pull out school for next week.
- Campbell's soccer was cancelled, so she ended up working at church with Keaton for childcare. They both worked tonight, and then they will tomorrow night as well. While they were working, Robby and I went to get a baked potato at McAlisters, but those silly people were out of potatoes so we ended up eating Mexican.
- I think that Reagan had a good day-she had a package from us and one filled with cookies from Nonna plus some cards in the mail. We even saw a video with her going to eat with a huge group of friends-they had party hats and even a cake. I'm so glad she has found some sweet friends.
September 11, 2024
- Another day where the hammocks were put to good use. Between Whitman, Keaton, Campbell, and even myself for a few minutes, we all spent some time in the hammocks. I did pull them down before church tonight since we might get some rain.
- I'm glad that they are spending a little bit of time outside. I even saw Whitman jumping on the trampoline-he will do anything right now to put off school work, but he does eventually get it done.
- They repaved our roads yesterday and today-just with the sticky tar and then the little rocks on it. On my walk this morning, I just walked Bentley where they had not done the work yet because I didn't want her to get her feet sticky. I'm not exactly sure what I will do tomorrow-maybe it will be raining and I can sleep in.
- School is going so well this year-at least for the little 3. Things are going fine for Anderson and Graham but their college classes are a bit more challenging and time consuming. And I sure hope that school is going well for Reagan. We don't hear from her too often, but some of the kids did call her today while we were at Nonna and Pops' house.
- This afternoon I did some work on the girls' room-I think that we have one or two more days to work in there. I am in no hurry to finish this-I could have just worked for a day or two, but instead I have drug it out to being a 3 week task.
- Tonight I took everyone but Anderson and we went stopped at Nonna and Pops' house before church. Anderson had to be at church early for a meeting so he beat us there. After church, the big 4 left for Chickfila leaving just Whitman to ride home with me. That was fine though because I was able to get some info from Whitman: Moving up to the youth group is hard for a 6th grade boy-and it sure has been for Whitman!
September 10, 2024
- I think that I might have had an epiphany today-actually, I'm not even sure if I used that correctly. Let me google it...yes, epiphany is used close enough to correct. Anyway, Whitman has been doing 5 school things and then taking a 10 minute break.
- He has a ton of things on his list each day to do-some take time like math but some are super short like review a poem. During one of his breaks today he was in the hammock that the girls set up yesterday. Graham thought that he had been out there too long, but I realized to just let him be. He will eventually get his work done.
- And it is true-he does get his work done. Today though he still had two things to do at 3, and one of those was reading. For reading, he was reading a book about coding so he took my computer and read and coded for another hour.
- So my realization is that since him dragging his school work out most of the day doesn't bother him at all; then I really shouldn't let it bother me. I need to keep him moving, but I'm not going to stress about it....just as long as I am done with the helping part by early afternoon.
- I think that most everyone spent some time in the hammocks today-maybe not Anderson though. I went outside at one point and thought that Bentley was sharing a hammock with Campbell. But no, Bentley had her own hammock and just was relaxing in the sun.
- Graham had school this morning, and Anderson later in the day. Graham is a bit ahead in his math class while Anderson is right on target for his english class. And maybe since they were gone some today, or maybe because people just had their act together, but for some reason this was the very first day in a while that I had a break this afternoon. The school days lately have been long, but today was a nice break.
- Robby, Keaton, and I took Campbell to her soccer practice, and then we ran some errands before picking her up again. Soccer is 2 hours which means that we get home fairly late, and now there are just a few minutes before bed. around here.
September 9, 2024
- Monday morning school is usually a bit more difficult, and even though the day wasn't difficult; it just lasted forever. I read this morning with Keaton and Whitman. Then I worked with Whitman, Campbell, and then Keaton. It was almost lunch but I worked with Graham which took forever, and then finally, Anderson had a few things.
- I finished with him and went to take my walk. Keaton and Campbell spent most of the day outside in hammocks. Whitman even joined them as well. It was a beautiful day. When I came back from my walk, Whitman and I made banana bread before we worked together for spelling.
- After that, I loaded up with everyone but Anderson who was off painting the fields at Raymar. Graham drove us to the library and then to Nonna and Pops' house. I didn't plan my time very well because we couldn't stay long though.
- I hurried home so I could put together a meal to take to the neighbors. And don't be impressed-the only thing home made was the banana bread. Then I sat down for a little bit before Robby and I left with Anderson to go eat.
- We picked up a book and magnets for Whitman from someone's house on the way to eat. I usually am the one giving things away on the giving site, so today was just the third time I have picked something up. Whitman will love his magnets-which I should really keep for Christmas. And I am excited about the book-I told Robby that I wanted to have a spare book just in case the library closes. He told me that if the libraries close, we are going to have more trouble than not having a book to read.
- Back at home tonight, I have received at least 100 text-probably close to 200 today-which I know is nothing for these kids, but it is kind of overwhelming for me! I have about an hour now before bed, so hopefully I can read a few pages of my book and de-screen.
September 8, 2024
- For some reason, I always seem to be a in a rush on Sunday mornings. I was able to get the blasted laundry folded this morning plus a little lunch ready before we left so it was a win. When I went to wake up the kids, the girls were already awake, but the boys were still sound asleep. I have a snaking suspicion that they stay up a wee bit too late.
- We did church-this is our 4th week in a grown up Sunday school class, and it is just quite different. Robby and I do a good job at sitting still, but wow, I just keep wondering how did we get so old so quickly?
- Grannymom and Grandpa are a bit under the weather, so we had lunch at home this afternoon. I had made poppyseed chicken along with some rolls for our lunch. It is had to please my crowd, but since Whitman went back for seconds, I will take it as a win even if I will be the one to finish off the leftovers.
- This afternoon Robby ran some errands, while the big boys played basketball and I napped. I am pretty sure that Campbell and Keaton napped as well. Then tonight was the first night of Geyer Life Groups.
- We haven't had a great deal of luck with lifegroups, but I think that all of the kids will enjoy their groups this year. Whitman and Keaton are in one group which is in the same neighborhood as Anderson, Graham, and Campbell's lifegroup. I think that they all enjoyed their lifegroups, but Whitman was very chatty on the way home which is a sign that he enjoyed the evening for sure.
- Now, we are home, and I am trying to figure out what I can do now to help make the week run more smoothly-and really, it is probably a little too late for that.
September 7, 2024
- Robby was up first this morning to run some errands, and then I left to let Annie out. I then came back here to make sure that Anderson and Keaton were awake and out the door. Anderson went to paint the fields at Raymar while Keaton went to do some dog sitting of her own.
- The air conditioner man was here before Robby made it back home. The upstairs has just not been cooling lately-their rooms are built into the roof so there is little insulation, and it has been super hot-but usually the rule is when I think it is hot, then it is really hot-which in this case means that the air conditioner isn't working great.
- Of course, things were working great today probably because of the cooler weather. They tried one thing, but the thermostat stopped working while he was here as well. So maybe the thought is that the thermostat was causing the problem-that is what we are crossing our fingers for at least.
- Soon afterwards, the football game came on. Robby had said that he would just watch some and then we would leave, but it was a close game so we watched until the bitter end unfortunately. When it was over, we left with Campbell and Keaton for some errands.
- We ran our Little Rock errands, and then went to Bryant and dropped the girls off for some more dog sitting. Robby and I did a few shops then before picking them up. The next stop was Dillards to pick up Reagan's birthday gift. I swear it has been at least a decade since I have been in Dillards-Keaton and Campbell were intrigued walking through the store.
- Next up, we ate at Tacos for Life while the boys ate here. Once we returned home, I went to work on tomorrow's lunch while Robby made brownies for tonight. Now I am in my comfy chair eating brownies!
September 6, 2024
- This morning we took Graham and Anderson to ASU for a visit. The boys definitely enjoyed this visit better than SAU-last weeks visit was just us which was a tad awkward. However, today's visit was with other people including someone we know from church.
- The campus is big, but the tour was the same as last time-the exact same! It was just a year ago that I went on this tour with Reagan, and goodness, I can't remember what I had for breakfast most days or what I wore to church last Sunday, but I could practically recite parts of today's tour word for word.
- I do think that one of the boys' favorite part of today was stopping at ChickFilA on the way home. The drive wasn't too bad either direction-Robby and I had just started a podcast when we were close to home, so we even stayed in the car and listened to it once we pulled into the garage.
- The other folks at home must have been a little anxious to see us since they were all in the living room when we came home. We chatted for a bit, and then Robby left for some errands, and I laid my head down for a nap. I'm not sure that my nap happened because soon Robby was back, and we ran a few more errands and picked up supper.
- After everyone ate, I played a round of Apples to Apples with everyone but Graham. Then Robby and I went to the Wilson's house for a little Annie duty. I read my book on my phone some and ate some ice cream. Now, we are all back home, and I'm about to go to bed (but I'm sure none of the kids will head to bed anytime soon.)
September 5, 2024
- On Thursdays, not only do I have to do school, but I also have to get school ready for the next week. And today, even though I finished school with everyone early, it seemed like it had still been a long day. Then I had to get everything ready for next week too, but I have that down to a science now.
- Graham went to his class-on his drive home, the radio came loudly on which scared him. At the same time, he saw Robby driving past him-we figure that Robby's bluetooth connected to the radio and then terrified Graham.
- Later in the day, Anderson had been watching Robby and waiting for his Sonic drink delivery, but since it didn't look like he could get home in time, Anderson went ahead and left. Of course, they ended up crossing each other's paths, but not with enough time to stop to pass the drink. It was still good when Anderson made it home from class though.
- His class at school is more of just a study hall right now which frustrates him a little bit-and it really frustrates me! I hope they get things figured out, but today he used that time to work on his other college class.
- This evening Campbell had soccer practice, so Robby and I took her to that. I do think that she is enjoying it, but she came home all itchy today because of the grass. I gave her some benedryl tonight, but I will make sure that she starts taking allergy medicine as well.
September 4, 2024
- Another school day around here, and it went smoothly. Keaton did most of her math on her own while Campbell's math was completely new and sent my looking in the book for some answers. Anderson and Graham are rocking their college classes-right now since Anderson needs to start on an essay soon and that will be fun.
- I believe that yesterday I mentioned that Whitman worked ahead in a few things. He explained what he was doing today: he has to do 2 and a half things to earn a 5 minute break so he does 10 things for a 20 minute break. To make these breaks come around sooner, he needs to finish more things, so yesterday he found some easy things for him to do and knocked them out. I thought he was working ahead, but no, he was doing easy for him things so he could take a break sooner. And honestly, if you are that smart, I should have just let him out of school for the day.
- Graham didn't have work today, and he will probably off for a week or two since his boss will be out of town. This was fine by him. He spent his afternoon running!
- Campbell, Keaton, and I went to Nonna and Pops' house on our way to church. Then we stopped by the library, and I was super surprised when we made it to church and the boys had already arrived. Anderson said that Graham was anxious to get there-I'm glad my people enjoy going to church!
September 3, 2024
- We did the school thing this morning with Graham having to leave for his class before everyone else woke up. They were up soon afterwards and started to work. I had to rush a little bit because I had to take Campbell to the orthodontist.
- Her permanent retainer broke, and I sure wasn't expecting a massive bill for a 2 inch wire. The lady could see the shock on my face when I passed her my credit card. However, we want Campbell's teeth to stay pretty and straight.
- We rushed home so I could work with Keaton, Graham, and then Whitman. Whitman usually does 2 things and then takes a 5 minute break. I am not sure what he was doing today, but he was running super behind. Now, in his defense he did do a few things for tomorrow so that probably put him behind.
- Eventually, school was finished for the day, and I went upstairs to the girls' room to work for a little bit. Now, they were both sleeping or they were both pretending to sleep. I still went in their closet and cleaned off a shelf. Then I helped Graham organize his drawers under his bed.
- Robby took Campbell to soccer practice tonight, and I went to girls' night with my Sunday school class. I beat Robby home, but when we all arrived home, everyone started getting ready for tomorrow.
September 2, 2024
- Even though this was a holiday, it felt pretty much like a normal day. I was up at almost the same time to do my morning chores. Then i did take Bentley on a 2 mile walk-at one point she stopped walking, and I had to explain to her the house was the way that she did not want to walk.
- Since Graham and Anderson both had school work to do for their college classes, I decided that everyone else should have a bit of school work too. It wasn't much at all that they had, and I could easily be convinced that they do a little bit each Friday as well.
- Graham had to go to work today-or so the thought. When he showed up, they told him that they had finished the work, so that was a wasted trip. He was bummed about not getting to work, but he was more happy about not having work at all.
- I was able to do some reading this afternoon, but I didn't tackle any large projects-well, I am slowly working on the girls room with them. We are actually doing it so slowly, that I realized that by the time we have finished, we will have to start over. I'm just trying to work for about 15 to 30 minutes up there at a time, and gracious there is quite a bit to do.
- I made Graham his favorite-chicken breast for supper tonight. I made green beans and rice, and then I remembered that we had macaroni and baked beans in the fridge so I pulled all of that out. It was like Thanksgiving with all of our sides that we had.
- After supper, Campbell, Keaton, Whitman, Robby, and I went to see the movie Twister with the Wilsons. The lessons that we learned were 1. Don't live in Oklahoma 2. Don't chase storms 3. Have a storm shelter. I am pretty sure that even though the movie was intense it won't bother the kids-but gracious, if there was a storm tonight it would certainly bother me!
September 1, 2024
- Another Sunday morning here. When I went to wake up Campbell and Keaton, they said that we were waking them up later each week. However, when I went to wake them up, they were both completely ready plus we had been hearing them awake and moving around above our heads for a good while so I already knew they were awake.
- We did the church thing-Graham sat with us this week. Most of the youth that sit down front are Campbell's age or Anderson's age which leaves Graham kind of without too many folks to sit with. Keaton's group all sits upstairs which we aren't really in favor of since we can't see her to see if she is acting a fool-which I am sure that she never does (fingers crossed).
- After church, we enjoyed lunch at Nonna and Pops' house. They had pork tenderloin which is the kids' absolutely favorite meal. This made all of them happy. We ate and visited some before heading home.
- The big boys did their football draft this afternoon, and Whitman also spent time on his device. Campbell, Keaton, and I all had naps-I have trained my girls correctly.
- The kids all left for Rock Creek tonight while Robby was still gone. Robby also had my phone with him so he could do a mystery shop under my name, so it was super strange being at home without a phone. Graham could not believe that I would not have my phone...even for a little bit.
- I was able to get some things done around the house but nothing that really mattered-as in I didn't clean or do anything from my list for next week. I even read a little bit of my book this evening. I haven't been able to read as much lately and that kind of makes me sad.
- We met the kids at the Wilson's house for our Sunday night supper. Shannon had soup on this first day of September. We stayed longer than the kids and visited some, then we came home to start the week.
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