Hmm no, they're not carpenter ants. I checked that out right off. They're too small. They look like just regular sugar ants. Some come into the kitchen, but most don't. So, I stopped being so upset, but still kinda upset - just the idea of not knowing they're doing - being destructive or what... I noticed they're moving white things IN now - before they were carrying the white stuff off...now they're carrying it in - I wonder if they've got a nest in the walls? Or it could be under the house, I guess. May be they're going up and over the cinder block foundation through some cracks in the wood. Our house is oooooooold built in the late 1800s, and is built with the timbers (almost like rr ties) going horizontally. Solid wood througout. Great for insulation but not so great when you're terrified of termites and carpenter ants!
I haven't tried the vinegar yet - been really really busy with the business, but will get out there over the next few days and splash them up with it, and then watch and see what happens.
Thanks y'all...I'll keep ya posted!