- 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 30, 2024
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.
November 5, 2024
- Once again on this rainy morning, I asked Graham if he wanted to sleep in and skip school. This is kind of a college class, so maybe I am setting a bad precedent. However, it was really raining, and we can figure out his math at home.
- For some reason, he and his class are a little bit behind-we have a reasonable plan to catch up. Today, though, we were working on math and did over half of it before we realize that we could have been graphing the silly problems saving us so much time. Now, he knows how to do it all on paper though.
- Whitman does get his work finished each day, but he just disappears for so long that I forget about him. This means that around lunch time, I realize that I haven't seen him since 10! I usually text, and he is upstairs working on math. So then I tell him to come and find me when he finished that. When I do see him, then we check math and I try to knock out everything else that we need to do.
- Anderson has 2 essays and a final left for his comp class so he is nearing the end of his most stressful class. Next semester, I think that he will be taking 3 college classes so that might prove to be stressful for him...and me, but maybe it will be good practice for next semester.
- This afternoon Keaton set out most of our Snow Village houses-she did a great job, and all but 2 houses are out. The house now looks like it is from a Hallmark movie....it actually looks so Hallmarky-ish that we are debating waiting on putting up the big Christmas tree for a few more weeks.
- Tonight I ran a few errands with Robby and brought home supper for the kids. They were all huddled around the tv watching election results when we came in, but after supper they all when their separate ways. Now, Robby and I are the only ones left in the living room-the news is on, but my book is going to be much more interesting.
November 4, 2024
- I was running a little bit behind this morning, and I was really hoping that it was going to be raining when I looked out the window. However, it was not so Bentley and I went on our morning walk. We made it back just in time to start reading with Keaton and Whitman.
- Campbell always climbs out of bed soon after we start reading, and most days Graham is up a bit after Campbell. But hardly ever does Anderson wake up until my third or fourth time up the stairs. I hope that he will be able to register for all afternoon classes in college.
- We were able knock out most of our work before lunch time-don't be too impressed because kitchen doesn't really start getting busy for lunch until around 1 or later these days. Whitman even asked to do all of our work together before lunch instead of waiting until later in the afternoon.
- Graham and Campbell went to work today. They were busy most of the afternoon long while Keaton and I were also busy most of the afternoon long. We pulled out all of the Christmas from the attic-and our Christmas attic is not easy to move around in-there are pipes, wires and a super low ceiling.
- We managed though with some help from Anderson. Then we went to town trying to Christmas up this place. Keaton did the decorating around the house while I put up one tree. So currently, the school room is filled to the brim with Christmas boxes. It is a lot-so much that really I should just tell them to skip school tomorrow.
- After we stopped Christmassing the house, it was time for Robby and I to run and pick up some supper. We all ate, and I went to work on the Christmas ornament blog that I do each year. It will be pretty short this year since we only bought two ornaments this travel year.
- Now I am about to check on a different attic for my Christmas things and heat me up some hot chocolate before settling in with my book tonight.
November 3, 2024
- Last night I ended my blog as the boys' were driving home from their evening of playing at Raymar and their friend's house nearby. When they walked in the door, Graham had his shirt off, and his whole everything was covered in hives. He was bright red!
- Apparently, while they were playing hide n seek, Graham and 2 other boys laid down in the grass. The other boys weren't bit by ants, but Graham has over 50 ant bites all over his legs. I guess after this, their playtime was over, and they walked back to someone's house about a mile away.
- Anderson said that Graham looked even worse back at the house-bad enough for the kid to call his mom a nurse. She instructed them to dope him up with benedryl and some creams which they did. When he came in the house, we sent him to the shower and gave him more benedryl after his shower. By bedtime, his hives were gone, but today his ant bites are incredibly itchy.
- Even though we had an hour of extra sleep last night, I had a hard time waking up all of the boys. The girls were all up-Keaton had a friend spend the night, and they were dressed and ready when I went to check on them, and Campbell was sitting up in her bed.
- We did the church thing this morning-Robby and I had missed a few Sundays because of camping, and it was good to be back at church. It was also good to be back in our Sunday lunch routine at Grannymom and Grandpa's house. Dana and Cash were there, and after lunch everyone visited for a good while before we headed home.
- Before heading home though I dropped Robby off at Sams and Walmart, and I drove the van and all the kids to Old Navy to pick up sweatpants for Campbell. Then it was back to pick up Robby. Then we did get home, and I promptly had my Sunday afternoon nap.
- Soon it was time for the kids to leave for Rock Creek. Tonight was a special evening-costume night: Anderson and Graham were sporting their Storm Troopers costumes that we have worked so much on this last weekend. Whitman made fun of them yesterday but did admit that he would happily wear them for halloween. Keaton and Collyn were Campbell and Keaton's cow costumes.
- Keaton and Collyn made it to the championship for middle school and lost against a much older team. Anderson and Graham were pretty close to winning the costume contest but did lose to another team, and they also made it to the championship. They all did come home in a decent mood despite the losses.
- The Wilsons came over for supper this evening-Robby made quesadillas and a cinnamon cake. It was all good. We visited until it was time to call the weekend to a close.
- The kids must be tired because they have been throwing down laundry and even straightening their rooms this evening without anyone asking them to. Actually, I'm pretty tired myself despite that extra hour of sleep.
November 2, 2024
- I was the first one awake this morning and after my dishes and laundry, I went to work on the boys' project. They started out doing it on their own, and Anderson did quite a bit. However, I do enjoy a craft project plus I really want my kitchen back. Their project had started on the kitchen table and has now spread to every chair and the entire bar. By the end of the night though, their outfits will be finished so we can return to our regularly scheduled programming.
- Anderson and Graham left the house pretty early this morning to go and help one of Grannymom's friends move Christmas things from her attic. They said that they really didn't do much at all. I'm glad they didn't feel like they did much because this week they will have to help me get Christmas things out of my attic...and I won't be paying. They are good boys though and always willing to help out.
- Campbell, Keaton, and I were the next ones to leave. I helped throw a wedding shower for sweet Layne. It was a fun shower and a fun group of hostesses. I enjoyed getting to visit with everyone today.
- Campbell wasn't able to stay long at the shower because she had a soccer game. Robby picked her up and hauled her back to the other side of the town. She made it to her game just in time for kickoff. This was their last official game, and after losing every game-they tied! So that is good! Campbell played most of the game, and that girl does love her some soccer.
- While we were all gone, the big boys left to go and play at Raymar. I think that they played frisbee golf, but I know that they were all over the Raymar property along with the surrounding neighborhood. They also already cashed in their free nuggets at ChickFilA so I think that they have had a good evening especially since they are just not on their way home.
- When Keaton and I came home from the shower, Whitman helped me unload the car. Soon afterwards, Keaton left for a birthday party. They arranged flowers at the party which was such a neat idea. I picked her and two friends up, and after dropping off one of those friends, we came home.
- Whitman has just finished his shower, the girls are all in the bonus room, the big boys are heading home, and Robby is cleaning out his office.
November 1, 2024
- This was the first Friday in a very long while that I was not at a campsite, and even though I had time to do a few extra things, I still wish that I was camping. Robby and I decided that we could possibly camp somewhere every other weekend. Actually, we thought that we could be on the road for a good 2-3 years before needing to come home to find a home base.
- I did the morning things and was even prepared to take Bentley 2 miles on today's walk. I usually walk a mile in the morning and a mile in the afternoon, but on Fridays since I don't have school to deal with, I try to walk both miles in the morning. Bentley barely made it half of a mile before I brought her home today. She kept stopping where I had to pull her to keep walking.
- I took Campbell and Keaton to Platos this morning for them to do a little bit of shopping. Keaton was able to find 2 pairs of jeans and a jacket-I bought one, she bought one, and one was for Christmas. Campbell found herself a sweater, and we bought a shirt for Anderson so it was a successful visit.
- Campbell and Graham went to work today. Campbell was just working for these last 2 weeks so maybe she will get more hours, but she did get her first real paycheck today so that was fun.
- Robby and I ran a few errands this afternoon, and I made a few recipes of spinach dip as well. However, most of the day was spent painting Anderson and Graham's costumes. We have spent so much time on them, and have quite a bit to do tomorrow.
- Campbell had a dgroup in Benton today so Robby dropped me off at a store and then dropped off Campbell. Then he ran a few errands and picked me up before picking up Campbell. We were pretty speedy and were able to get quite a bit done in one hour.
- When we came home, Robby and I went to eat at Cantina Larado. It was good, but overall, it wasn't that great-On the Border is still our favorite, but we did like the dessert that we ordered.
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