From my 1996 journal I discover that the lapse of years doesn't stop those frustrating mornings from happening.  With another child added to the cluster it is fun to review those easier times.  And now a journey into my past:

I didn't get out of bed until quite late.  Neil had been up with the baby since about 7:30.  He was sitting on the floor with her and watching the weather channel.  I had asked that he get the children up, clothed, fed and morning jobs done so I could start school at 9 am.  I was already way off schedule.

When I came in and asked if these things were done he said, "I have been trying to watch the weather channel."  Then I saw my dear children.

I asked Chiya (rather skeptically), "Are you dressed?" She said,  "Half-way." Good.  Math has just been covered.

Ben said, "I have to shower."  Wonderful.  Health lesson has been done.

Nathan wanted to know what to have for breakfast.  "Whatever you can find."  I grumbled. Great!  Home Economics and Self Sufficiency in one fell swoop!

Ryan and Cheyanne were already scavenging in the kitchen taking a bite or two out of apples and a taste of this and that. Hey...I'm on a role with an interactive history lesson: How early Hunter and Gatherers' lived.

Chani and Chamrie were safely elsewhere.  Chalk one up for Government and Delegation Class as they are the ones who fill in when Dad is watching the weather channel.  I think we are failing this class.

Finally we had Family Scripture study and our Articles of Faith lesson.  Then I read the first chapter of Swiss Family Robinson to the eager listeners amid the cries of little Chalae, the chatter of Ryan and Cheyanne and the workings of the washing machine and dryer.

To top it off, Neil was in the room trying winter coats on each of the children.

Shortly afterwards, I was informed that lunch time had arrived AND it was 1 PM so school should be over!

My journal entry ends with this determined declaration: "Tomorrow, we start at NINE AM SHARP!"