February ends with Storms...

This morning I knew that there was a chance of storms, and I will be the first to admit that I used to love a good tornado day. Dad and I would sit up watch the weather go outside and see if we could see, feel, or hear any changes. I had plans to be a storm chaser. Then something happened. A pregnancy test was positive. The May that I was expecting Danny there were 12 days straight of severe weather. That was the most nerve wrecking time of my life. I knew then that storm chasing would probably not happen. Maybe when the boys are older I can look back into that career. ;) Today ended up being really nice until about 3, when a horrible storm rolled up and flooded the back yard. There was about 2 inches of standing water, the creek was flowing, but fortunately not overflowing...been there done that. The water had started to come in the garage, but about the time that started the rain stopped so it was not bad, which is good since the pipe (or whatever) it is still seems to be flooding the bottom of the stairs inside. We have someone coming to look at it tomorrow, who knows what will be found. Brandon seems to think it is either a pipe in the wall or the hot water heater. I will update tomorrow and hopefully it will be good news! Stay tuned.

So I love this time of year. The flowers start to bloom, even the weeds that flower look so pretty. I love the purple that is found around clover. I do not know why, but I do. I remember pulling these so I could give friends and family flowers and now my boys do the same.

Well, the boys are asleep and yes it is only 8! YAY!! I am so heading to bed before 9! I am super excited. Before I go to bed I will remember you all in my thoughts and prayers. I am also asking for you all to remember RJ in your prayers. This is a prayer request from a friend. RJ is a baby who was born prematurely. His parents were told today that he will undergo heart surgery tomorrow morning. Please pray for him, his family, his doctors, and nurses!

Mario, Batman and Auburn

Mario, Batman, and Auburn...what do these three have in common? Well it is the theme for John Michael's 5th Birthday party. He just could not make up his mind so he decided he wanted them all. We had his party at Pump It Up in Trussville and while I have been to a lot of parties there this is the first time that I had one and I have to tell you, it was wonderful. I will definitely be having other parties there. The kids all had a great time, even the parents had a blast! Thank you all so much for coming and celebrating John Michael turning 5....he is so proud to be one whole hand now!

We left the party and he wanted to go to Game Stop, he got money for games and could not wait to spend it.

Well, I have to say a weekend full of birthday parties has worn me out. If the boys would go to sleep, they are in bed, but still going. As soon as they go on to sleep I am right behind them. It has been a great weekend. Friends, family and fun! I have to admit I am looking forward to a week with some down time and I think this is it....so maybe a scrapbooking night should be planned! An email we be going out soon ;)

Before I go to bed, I will remember everyone in my thoughts and prayers. This weekend has been exhausting but fun and I can seriously feel the stress leaving my neck and shoulders. At least it was all good stress! We all experience some form of stress, but how we deal with it is so important. I have tried to convert it into creativity or productiveness, and I have to say it works. Whatever stressors that you have in your life you should enjoy them or get rid of them!

Saints Win and a 30th Birthday Surprise

This morning started with our last basketball game of the season. We played Our Lady of the Valley this morning and won. The second graders from St. Francis Xavier are a great group of boys and this has been a fun season. It has been amazing to watch Danny grow in his knowledge and skill in this sport. I am so proud of him and of all the boys. They finished the season undefeated, today's victory was the closest at 15-10.

Then it was home for the fun to begin.

So I made it through today! It was a surprise party for Brandon. We are both going to be thirty him in less than 2 weeks, me in 2 weeks. I knew that I wanted to do something for him and so an 80's themed party seemed perfect. Everyone was asked to dress up, and let me just tell you I loved it when I was little in the 80's and as an adult it was even more fun. There was the issue of how to surprise Brandon, so since John Michael turned 5 on Wednesday I told him and Danny that I was having a surprise party for John Michael. The thing is John Michael's party is tomorrow. Talk about stressful, 2 parties in 2 days. BUSY, but FUN! Brandon took John Michael to the park to get him out of he house so we could get everything ready, when in fact I just needed him out so John Michael helped BIG TIME! Brandon came home expecting a party, but not for him! He was surprised, and seemed to have had a great time. We even danced off to Michael Jackson's Thriller, and everyone should know I won. I also beat our sixteen year old sister, which was great! I was glad that he had a good time, that was my whole point. He has been having a hard time with turning 30 and I wanted him to know that it would be great!

Well, since I am now 2 hours into tomorrow and we have church, the spaghetti dinner for the school and John Michael's Birthday party I am off to bed! Before I go to bed I will remember you all in my thoughts and prayers. It has been an amazing day and dressing up, and just having a good time with family and friends has made today a really special day it has also made me realize just how important it is to get the most out of each day and truly enjoy it. Life should be a party, and should be enjoyed. Brandon and I are hitting milestones this year in the world of birthdays, but more importantly we are doing it together! We are living life, and enjoying it. It is not perfect and definitely not easy, but it is ours! Celebrate something everyday!

The Day Before....

So a lot is happening tomorrow and if I can get to it then I will be one happy person. More details later! Tomorrow is Danny's last basketball game, so it will definitely be a bittersweet moment. It has been a fun season, and it being his first he learned so much and really improved. It has been fun watching all of the boys out there really enjoying themselves. I plan on having my camera tomorrow, hopefully it will not find comfort on the couch tonight.

Danny lucked out with an extra day out of school. This morning while we were getting ready for the day, the phones rang and due to the power outage at the school. The plan was to open at 10, if the power was not on by 9:30 we would get another call school would be canceled. Well, at 9:30 school was canceled. Needless to say he was a happy boy! I cannot say that I blame him I still do remember the days of no school.

The pictures today are more for my aunt. She got two outfits for the boys. Anyway, John Michael's pants were about a foot too long and Danny's vest just want not happening. I was going to try to go really cute for a photo opportunity and well, it ended up with the boys falling and hitting their heads. It was bad for a few minutes and I felt like the mom of the century. John Michael basically decided that the time to choke his brother was while he was on his back! Needless to say I saw it happening and was second behind stopping it, but it was that second that counted. Fortunately they are both fine! They inherited their hard heads honestly....and they are extra think since their momma and daddy both have them!

Well, it is definitely not 9, closer to tomorrow, but oh well. It has been a great day and I was able to accomplish a lot! I hope that tomorrow is even better. I love the weekends especially when I get to spend them with my family!

Before I go to bed tonight I will make sure to say a prayer for all of my friends and family. There are so many little things that we forget about as adults. Like the simple joy of a day out of school, the excitement that can come from change. We tend to stress about things when they do not go the way that we had planned. But you know I have always heard if you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans! This is so true. When things do not work out the way that we had planned it means that they are probably going to work better because we allowed Him to take control and personally I like Him in the driver's seat. While I had a lot to do and was convinced that this was going to slow me down it actually helped me enjoy my day and I got a little more done than I expected.

The last Basketball Practice

Well today was definitely the day after a birthday at our house. Because we try to make the whole day special and about the boys the day after they are usually in wonderful moods! It is sort of like a college day hangover....only there is no alcohol involved. Maybe I should start consumption of it so that it does not seem so bad. JOKING for all of those who are following who do not know me!

Today was the last practice for Danny's basketball team. I have to admit I am a little sad. I will miss watching these boys really give it their all. This was a team scrimmage and it was very entertaining and close. I cannot believe that I left my camera, but I will have it for the last game Saturday, at least that is the plan. It has been a quick season, but I guess they always are when time is flying by.

Baseball should take us to the end of school. If you have not signed up Clay Recreation is adding one last weekend for signing up, which is great! I love sports and I am so glad that the boys do too.

We came home and had to rush through dinner, then shower for John Michael and homework followed by a shower for Danny. They are passed out now and even though it is not before 9, which figures I am headed there myself soon.

Storms are a possibility tonight, but it is all good. I am looking forward to rainy sleep, which is always the best. I am hoping that the severe weather radio stays quiet.

Well, before I go to bed tonight as always I will be remembering all of my friends and family in my prayers. Whether or not you have voiced your request or it is an internal desire it is remember ever night by me. There is so much that we all leave unspoken out of embarrassment or just because we feel it is too private to share, but know that I am praying for you!

Remember that we all harness an amazing gift from God but we must use it!

John Michael is 5

So today my baby boy turned 5 years old. I cannot believe it! It does not seem like five years has gone by since that sweet newborn cry surged through the house in the middle of the night, since I changed those tiny diapers. It seems like yesterday I was convinced he would be headed to high school in diapers because he did not want to use a potty. I thought the pacifier was going to be stashed in his pillow case for college, because he loved it. The waddle walk does not seem like years ago, yet now he can run as fast as lightening. He is almost done with pre-school and is headed to kindergarten this fall. He plays baseball and cannot wait to add soccer and chess to his after school activities. Five years seems like a long time, but in all honesty if you blink it is gone and all I have is amazing memories and some great pictures!

We had a great day. This morning he woke up in the best of the moods. He wanted Cheese Whiz and Chicken Biscuit Crackers for breakfast so that is what the boys had. I do not think I could stomach that before 7 am. Brandon took a half a day at work so was able to surprise him when we picked him up from school. He is so used to it just being mom. He took blue and yellow batman cupcakes to school, and he was blue after school. I love icing dye. It was so cute. Danny took a blue one for snack and he even had a blue mouth after school. He was quite surprised to have mom and dad there on a Wednesday too! We went to Party City to get goody bags and just random party supplies for this weekend. Books-A-Million was added to the stops and he got a Super Mario Brothers Yahtzee game and Danny got a new Diary of a Wimpy Kid book. Dinner at Cici's was the next stop where the boys spent abut $15 in the games. He wanted desert at Logan's with a Yee-Haw and he got it. He even had a surprise visitor, his Aunt B and her friend Katie! He loved it. They even brought him a few surprises, including a balloon which he loves! Now if we could get him to sleep. He has had a bath and yet he will not give it up, and momma and daddy are ready to go to bed! I guess the sugar high is still in effect. I am just thankful for an amazing day with my family. I am also very thankful that John Michael had "the best birthday day ever." It made my day when he told me that!

Well, it is definitely not before 9, in fact we are creeping up on 11, but a day like today was well worth a late night! Before I go to bed I will remember all of my friends and family in my prayers. I hope that you remember what a gift each day is that is why we refer to it as the present. Cherish the little things and always hold onto all of the memories!

The last day to be four

Well, John Michael woke up this morning in the best of moods. When I told him good morning, he said "Guess What Momma, it is my last day of being four." I cuddled with him for a few minutes and then the normal morning rituals began. I cannot believe that when we wake up in the morning he will be five. He is so excited and so am I, but I am also very sad. It does not seem like it has been five years. I took some pictures of him just being silly, he said well that is that for silly four year old pictures, tomorrow it will be silly five year old pictures.

We always spend the day with the boys doing fun things for their birthdays. Danny usually has a whole day from breakfast until bedtime with us, John Michael has school so Brandon is taking off early so we can spend the afternoon with him. Right now he wants Cici's for dinner and then Logan's for dessert. We will see what happens with that. He has Batman cupcakes for school tomorrow, and Danny has one that he is going to take for his snack so he can celebrate too. He is such a sweet big brother.

Danny's big day was today, he had choir, and then basketball after a full day of school. He came home and after writing wrinkle three times finally got it. I think he was just tired though. Test tomorrow so we will see. Stay tuned for Thursday papers when we know how he did!

You learn something new everyday. I thought it was 15 minutes after seeing lightening that it was safe to go outside, but it is 30 minutes after hearing thunder. Good to know since the storm season is upon us.

Well, I cannot make it by nine 2 nights in a row, but I will try again tomorrow. Before I go to bed I will pray for all of my friends and family. It is amazing how quickly time can pass us all by. There is so much that we tend to overlook because of our always hectic schedules, but remember you will not get it back. If it was worth a second look or a second thought it was worth the memory!

Happy President's Day

Happy President's Day everyone. I have had a really good day even though I did not get half of what I wanted or needed to accomplished. I will keep working on it though. I have all week right?!

The boys were both out of school today even though so many had to go to make up the snow/ice days. I was glad to have them here. I love spending time with them. Danny's asthma has been acting up though so this gave him a lazy day. They did spend some time outside, but he was relatively calm today, in fact he was asleep by 6:45 and John Michael by 7! YAY!!!

These early bed times and the fact that I am writing this at 8:3o means that more than likely I will be in bed by 9:00. I knew it would have to happen sooner than later and this week I think I will need some rest!

John Michael had fun in his Buzz Lightyear costume today and when it was time for dinner he made a mess, but it was hilarious! Of course now I have to wash the tablecloth again, but for this picture it is more than worth it!

Tomorrow is John Michael's last day to be 4, I cannot believe that he is almost 5, it seriously blows my mind. I am excited about his party though. I have to call my cake baker because he wants a batman, mario, auburn cake...it should be interesting! If anyone can do it though, she can. I love you in advance Amy!

Looking forward to some photography sessions that are coming up and some that I am editing from this weekend. I plan to work on those a little more tonight before bed!

Before I go to bed I will remember you all in my prayers. I also ask that we say a prayer for our country's leaders. I am not a fan of the current administration, but they are our leaders and I hope that with prayers they will be enlightened to their mistakes and have the courage to admit them. We should also pray for the country's past and future leaders.

The Lake and Location Scouting

Today we went to the lake for the first time in about year, unless you count the couch we took up there last year, but since we took it and turned around it does not seem right to count it. Man I have missed it and no matter what we are going to take the time to get up there more this year. We did not stay long today, only about 2 hours, but the boys got to fish and they had a great time. We will have to get up there in the next few weekend to get the leaves taken care of, but other than that we are good to go, well and the wall that Brandon has to fix in our room. So ready!

We also went to scout a few locations for the photography. Remember I am always open to suggestions. We drove around Pell City for a little while, but spent most of our time in Springville looking for the perfect curve for a motorcycle shoot and I think I found it. We will just have to see how the owner feels about taking a hairpin curve. It will make for a great picture though. Well, I think.

We came home and played some backyard ball and then just hung out. The boys are in bed and I will be there soon myself!

Before I go to bed I will remember all of my friends and family in my prayers. You are all amazing people and I hope that you all realize that. I know how hard life can be, but our attitudes about it determine everything and we have truly been living it to the fullest and my prayer for you all is that you do as well. When the negativity is nonexistent then the positive starts to flow through more hardily.

Parks, Parties, and Cinnamon Rolls

Today was a gorgeous day and one that I was thankful to spend so much of it outside and all of it with my amazing family.

We started early this morning, with a photo shoot at Rail Road Park. The family came so after the shoot we hung out and the boys enjoyed some ice cream. It was so nice today and with the water running again at the park it was so pretty. I was glad to be there with my family, and make some special memories.

After the park we drove around Birmingham scoping out possible photo shoot locations for the future. The boys were not in the mood to pose so we just ventured around town. I cannot wait to take advantage of some of these locations. We came home and fixed lunch, and I uploaded my photos from today so that the editing and posting can begin.

We had a birthday party for one of Danny's friends. Happy 8th Birthday again JT. The party was great and the boys had a blast. Even Brandon and I had a good time. Thanks Tonya.

After the party we talked about going to Mass, but again the boys were in some funky moods so we went to the Galleria to quench Brandon's craving for Cindy's Cinnamon Rolls. We walked around and even grabbed dinner. The boys love food courts, I think it is because everyone can get whatever they want and we only have to go to one place. It was a treat for them usually it is whatever I cook they eat or they can have a bowl of cereal. We rode the carousel and then on our way out the door we went to Cindy's.

Now everyone is tucked in. Well the boys are and Brandon and I are pretty tired. Tomorrow we are going to start the day with an early Mass and then we are going to the lake. We want to make a list of what we need to do because this year we are going to enjoy it.

Before I go to bed I will remember you all in my prayers. There are so many little things that might seem like nothing today, but tomorrow they will be everything. Enjoy every minute!!!

Many Friday Blessings

Today was a day of many blessings ... after I got over the lack of sleep due to Freddie Kruger nightmares. Seriously it was wild and the thing is these movies never really scared me but these nightmares were seriously crazy. Oh well, what can I say we all have a crazy night every now and again.

This morning Brandon and I managed to get the den finished finally. It was a week long project that I am so glad is in the past. Now to keep it that way. We filled up another garbage with stuff that was either broken or missing pieces and then the back of Brandon's truck with stuff for the donation bins. It was bittersweet to get rid of so much, but there is still so much stuff. Sometimes I wonder where the heck it all came from. It was great to watch them be able to really use the den and they were so grateful to have it cleaned and organized. The funny thing is that they have not even noticed what is missing! So obviously I made the right choices when deciding what to keep and what to get rid of.

John Michael absolutely cracked us up. He was playing with the play-doh, which he loves. He made a play-doh friend and named him Daniel. It was so cute! He misses Danny when he is at school. Super sweet moment in my heart. Of course as soon as they are together they are fighting usually, but I guess it is part of being brothers. I hope that it gets better soon. I like the fun moments the most.

I taught the boys how to play Trouble tonight. I was super proud we had a good thirty minutes of no fighting fun! We plan more family game nights.

We had a great dinner, seafood and chicken box, with some great friends. Thank you Nick, J, Kiersten and Elliott for a nice Friday night! The boys were exhausted and passed out probably before they were off the street. Brandon and I also had a nice time, it is always nice to have and enjoy company.

Well, it is definitely not before 9, but tomorrow is a new day. Before I go to bed I will as always say a prayer for all of my friends and family. Consider your spoken and unspoken request prayed for. I also pray for a successful photo shoot in the morning. I love photography and thank God for allowing me to do what I love.

Jammed Fingers

So today was progressing nicely when my phone rang. Danny jammed his fingers today on the playground. I went to get him, because I know that it hurt, and he just needed some TLC from his momma. He did have to miss basketball practice and getting his pinewood derby car. The rule no school no fun had to be used. He did not seem to mind so I know he was in pain. Thank you so much Tonya for getting his car cut for us!

John Michael had a good day at school and was excited to see Danny after school. He is not a fan of sitting in the car for an hour after school waiting for Danny. This will be the last year though, next year they will be in school together and I cannot express how excited I am for this to happen!

So I have to explain the pictures, first my new favorite candle scent and believe it or not it came from Walmart. I am not a huge fan but every once in a while I venture in. I went in last month for After Christmas Sales anyway, I ventured down the clearance isle and fell in love!!! In cleaning out the den I finally found it so I decided it deserved a picture since Honeysuckle is just one of my favorite scents. It takes me back to so many memories of being young!

My second picture is of these awesome coke cans. Now I am not a huge fan of buying just stuff to add clutter, but I had to have these. Now I will only keep one, Danny cannot wait to drink them so I will probably just keep one.

Anyway, I know that it is short today, but I am exhausted and since the boys are asleep I am headed there myself. I will as always say a prayer for all of my family and friends, I know that there are so many intentions spoken and not.

Good night and I am excited about Friday and finishing the den with the help of Brandon and spending some time outside this weekend.

Pack Meetings and Traditions

Tonight was our pack meeting for cub scouts. It was a great night and strangely enough, we focused on scouting past and the 101 years of traditions that scouting has in America. The boys who are currently in Cub Scouts have not been involved but for a few years, but they have parents, grandparents, and even great grandparents who are involved or have been involved in scouting. I hope to see all of these boys progress and become Eagle Scouts. Scouting teaches them so much about life, God, family, and just doing the best that you can. These are all great boys who have the potential to truly become amazing men!

So I have been working in the house, today was focused on the den, which is also the play room. I have a lot to get done still but I have two bags, two boxes and lots of larger items for the donation bins, and I am not done yet. We will see how much I end up keeping. I am always a little sad when I overhaul this room because the boys are growing up and this makes me face that reality. Getting rid of the old, and making room for the new. It has to be done, but it is bittersweet.

So I heard about Toomer's corner today and I am sad. We were contemplating a day trip to the lake Sunday to inventory what we need to do before the summer. I am considering making that a trip to Auburn now. What to do? I am pretty torn, we really do not have the money for a 2 hour trip, but I do not want to miss seeing the trees one last time. I hope that they can save them. Now, as far as "Al from Dadeville" he sure was a cocky SOB when he called into the Paul Finebaum show so where is he now? He claimed that he did not care that it was illegal, so why exactly is he in hiding? I get that this man is an Alabama fan, but there is no way that he is an Alumni of Alabama or any SEC school. His lack of respect for traditions shows that. I hope that he gets caught and is put in an ORANGE jumpsuit for a long...long time. Furthermore, I am seriously doubting his accusations against Auburn. Why would they have rolled Toomer's when Bear Bryant died? The jersey on the statue maybe. Here is the thing though one of those is almost 30 years old, the other did not do any damage to the statue. A simple removal and it was all cleaned up. I personally would not have spent money on a jersey to gt to a statue. That is not vandalism though, what this guy has done is horrible and completely classless.

The picture is of the boys at Toomer's in December.

Well, I am off to bed. I really thought it would be before 9, but what can I say the news had me hooked with the Toomer's information! Before I go to bed as always I will be praying for my friends and family. I have a special request from a friend who is trying to get a job in this market that is hard so please pray for her, it is down to her and one other person. I will also be praying for the Toomer Oaks! WAR EAGLE!

The day that started with a backpack!!!

Well if it was not enough that we started this morning late.... I was so proud we all slept late, and somehow managed to get in the van and into Irondale with time to spare this morning. That was until Danny asked where his backpack was. The very backpack that I told him to get on his way downstairs. So we turned around came home got the backpack and took John Michael to school. On the way into John Michael's school I noticed Danny was not wearing his belt, which is a uniform essential. So we came back to the house so he could get his belt and then finally off to his school again!

Monica vs. the House got off to a late start because of the backpack adventure, but still in today's episode Danny's room was the target and I got a bulls eye. I even got a head start on tomorrow which is the den. This is the room that I am scared of. Seriously! Today alone two bags to the trash and two to donations. I have been tossing bags from my Christmas 2011 shopping in there so now it is time to get them somewhere until time to wrap and give. I am proud to report that currently Monica is defeating the house.

Well, it is almost 9 and unless a miracle occurs and Danny's goes to bed (his bedtime is 8) then I will not make it in bed before. Oh well, I will not give up. Before I go to bed as always I will remember all of my friends and family in my prayers. While today was super hectic and definitely not my ideal morning, it was a great day and it was productive! Remember even when things do not go what we perceive as right does not mean that they are wrong just that we have to make it work. I was very irritated this morning and then a few deep breaths and I figure that there was a reason, maybe it was just for the few extra minutes with Danny. Whatever this morning was meant to do it did not ruin my day! Enjoy each day and the blessings that it holds.

Happy Valentine's Day

No matter if your loved one is right next to you or a thousand miles away I hope that you found a way to say I love you today. Valentine's Day is such a special day and while many consider it a "Hallmark Holiday" it is actually a holiday that is deep rooted in History. Tell you spouses, your partners, your children, and your friends that you love them.

Today started off amazingly. Brandon surprised me with a Bon Jovi shirt, pants and a teddy bear. I was in awe! I have loved Bon Jovi since, well forever, and Brandon allows me this crazy passion. He even fuels it. I was so surprised. Then he topped off today when he came home from work with a dozen roses and cards. They were coral colored roses, I am not a fan of red ones at all and he knows this. I was definitely not expecting anything considering he had already outdone himself.

I had gotten Brandon, Danny and john Michael all a box of chocolates and given them to them this morning. I had conversation hearts and cards waiting on the boys when they came home from school, and a movie and card for Brandon. I also sent Brandon chocolate covered strawberries and cherries to the network. He seemed very happy with these! The strawberries are gone and I think that there are a few cherries left. My guess is they will meet there demise tomorrow. Thank you Sherri's Berries, they were amazing and delivered just as planned!

Today was Danny's party at school, which as always was a lot of fun. I love spending a few minutes with the boys in school. It is so nice to be a little part of their days.

When I got to the school to get John Michael I did a short impromptu photo shoot with a friend. Her babies looked too cute not to capture a few pictures!

We had a nice dinner with friends tonight. It was nice to spend some time with them and the kids all had a blast as always. We were planning on Chicken Box, but when we dialed to ordered we remembered that it was Monday so we changed plans and ordered Jim N Nicks. Definitely not Chicken Box, but still delicious. We are planning on getting together this weekend for the other.

Well, not before 9, in fact in about 10 minutes it will be tomorrow. Oh well, it was an amazing day. Before I go to bed I will be praying for all of you. I hope that you said and heard I love you today! If you did not you are hearing it now because I love you!

Twas the Night BeforeValentine's

Twas the night before Valentine's and all through our house the boys were wild even Mass couldn't calm John Michael's mouth.

We went to the late Mass today. It was nice but John Michael was wild. It is not something that we do often usually we prefer 8:30 as he is usually too tired to be such a wild child. Tonight Brandon took him out once, and then I took him out. Nothing like walking out with a wild one during Mass, the thing is he knows how to act, but the last few Sundays has done everything including stand on his head. Maybe next week will be the week he remembers how to act for an hour at least.

We did not get Danny's room done, but mainly because I did not feel good at all. In fact, I still don't. I was really hoping for early bed tonight, but considering it is eleven o-clock I don't think that happened. Oh well, hopefully I will feel better soon. I really think that I am breaking out in hives again which is not a good thing since I get them when my stress gets high and that is something I am working hard on.

I still have to get the boy's Valentine's out and ready. Brandon will get his tomorrow while he is at work. I hope that he likes it. I will mention what it was tomorrow, since he follows my blog! No reason to give it away tonight.

Well, tomorrow is Danny's party at school. He is really excited. I am just glad that I am going to be able to go and be a part of the festivities! I love being there with him.

Well, I am off to bed. Good night everyone and I hope that you all have the sweetest of dreams. Before I go to bed know that I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. You are all amazing people and I pray that Valentine's Day 2011 is special for you all.

Basketball, Party, Basketball

Today was a great Saturday, as always it was busy, but it was a lot of fun. Any day that is spent with my men is a great day in my opinion and today was just that.

This morning started with Danny's basketball game. The St. Francis Xavier Saints went to St. Rose Academy for basketball this morning and came out on top. The score was 20-11. This was the closest game that the boys have had to date. I was so glad that they won and have maintained the undefeated season. One more game and then they can claim the Toy Bowl trophy. We shall see how it all happens. They have a break next weekend and then they go to Our Lady of the Valley for their final game.

When we came home Danny and I got to work in his room. He cleaned off his desk, dresser and nightstand while I tackled his closet and his drawers. I still have the closet floor and the shelf in the top of it to completely be done in there. We still have a lot to do in his room, but we made a HUGE dent today. I also have the three drawers in his bed. Since we are not going to the morning Mass but to the 4:30 PM Mass I am hoping that we can finish it up in the morning. It would be a GREAT Valentine's Day present to me!

We had a birthday party and the boys had a blast. They always have a good time with Sasha and Conner and with even more kids added to the mix the good times were even more in abundance. Of course Sasha's birthday just reminds me that my babies birthday is around the corner. These kiddos are growing up so fast. I remember when Amy and I were waddling around Wal-Mart trying to go into labor.

We finished up tonight with a trip to the UAB game. UAB vs. Rice. It was a great game and we were glad to see the Blazers come out on top. This was a cub scout trip and those boys got a kick out of being called out by the announcer! Pack 357, had a great time at the game! I am going to see about getting some patches made for them, we will see what I can come up with. I don't think I will have it for the Pack meeting this month, but hopefully the blue and gold.

Well, it is definitely not before 9, but I knew that was not going to happen today. Before I go to bed, which will be in a moment, I pray for all of my family and friends. You guys are amazing!

Spaghetti with a Sprinkling of Love

Dinner tonight was spaghetti. I made enough to freeze some and to make some baked ziti and freeze it as well. John Michael decided that he wanted to add sprinkles to the spaghetti and of course Danny followed suit. Well, adding it too all of the spaghetti was not going to happen so we let them add it to their plates. It was pretty humorous. Danny added a few too many, and he fixed another plate, but John Michael said that his was perfect! They definitely made dinner time even more enjoyable than usual. I love our family dinners, they mean so much and I hope that the boys will continue this when they have families of their own.

We have another early basketball game, but it is a lot of fun. Danny is loving it. I am a little sad that they only have tomorrow's game and then one more.

Time seriously seems to pick up a little each year. They get older, busier, and the clock speeds up. I wish that it would slow down some. The blog is allowing me to make sure that I enjoy each day though. Everyday is a blessing and this allows me to really think about all of the blessings that I have.

Well, I started on laundry catch up this afternoon. The heater/ac man assures us that the leak is not coming from there, but we went through this a few years ago, and after paying 2 plumbers guess what it was...the AC. I swear I do not know what to do. If money were not an issue it would be easier, but money is a HUGE issue. I will just wait and see I guess. I will keep you all posted.

Tomorrow after the game, before the birthday party that is before the UAB game....seriously going to be a busy Saturday I am hoping to get Danny's room done. I am making it a project that he tackles with me, whatever we do not get done tomorrow will be done Sunday! I am determined, that means next week after the Valentine's festivities I will be able to tackle the den (which is also the playroom) and the office (which is also the catch all. I worked on it some to get all of my taxes done, but there is a lot to go!

Well, it is still not before 9, but it is all good. I will be remembering all of my friends and family in my thoughts and in my prayers. I hope that everyone has a great night. A friend of mine's husband left at noon today for Afghanistan. I am praying for his safe return and for her and her son. They are amazing people and have faith, but prayers also give them added strength so please remember them and all our troops and their families. These men and women put their lives on hold for America and should always be respected!

Valentine's Party and Snow Fun

Today started early with fun in the snow. We got up and went out it was nice to spend some morning time having fun instead of rushing to get ready. Snow angels were made, snow balls were thrown, and of course pictures were taken. I really wanted a picture of the boys outside of their schools with the snow, but they did not want to stop long enough to make that happen.

Danny had a great day at school. Followed by a good time at basketball practice. They are getting ready to take on St. Rose's Saturday morning.

John Michael enjoyed a fun Thursday giving out and accepting Valentine's with all of his friends. Of course I was there with my camera, where else would I be? The kids all seemed to have a great time. They definitely got a lot of sugar, in fact John Michael is still going on his sugar high! Waiting for the crash so he will go to bed so that I can go to bed!

Danny has all of his Valentine's ready for next Monday. A friend of mine checked to see if we could have Valentine's delivered to the school, but it is not allowed. Oh well, we will just do it at home as always.

The Heating guy is supposed to come in the morning. Time for the service, and it is leaking again, which is just a pain in the hiney. Hopefully it is nothing and the water in the garage will stop seeping out. It is just a pain and makes for a lot of extra cleanup, plus because I where it is laundry has to be limited, so I am behind on that now.

Looking forward to a nice weekend, with much better temperatures. Even more excited about next week with highs in the sixties! YAY! James Spann said this morning on his e-forecast that the worst of 2010-2011 winter appeared to be behind us. This news had me smiling all day.

Well it is not before 9, but as soon as the boys fall asleep I am off to bed. Before I go I will be praying for all of my family and friends. I have a friend who has lost her mother and I ask that everyone please pray for her as I know that it is always difficult to lose a parent.

Snow and Valentine's Preparations

John Michael's Valentine's party is tomorrow so we finally went to Target and got some Valentine's and the bag of candy that I was supposed to bring the other day. Better late than never....and it is not really late, just really cutting it close. Well, we went on and got Danny's and then I got a few things that I needed to get I was out of Ziploc bags...craziness.

Well, we had a visit from our favorite Aunt B today. The boys adore her and so do Brandon and I. It is always great to spend some time with her.

School's are already delayed 2 hours tomorrow morning because of the snow threat that is now here. The snow is so pretty though, I almost forgot how pretty it was since we have pretty much only seen ice this winter. We plan on getting up in the morning like a regular day so we can have a little bit of time in the morning before school to play. As pretty as it is a day at home would really not hurt my feelings, I like to play in the snow...and take pictures ;) with my men. I am hoping that Brandon is at least delayed too that we we can have some family fun before the day starts.

Today on Monica vs. The House John Michael's room was the headline. Monica won! Closet cleaned out, drawers cleaned out, under the bed cleaned out. I have three bags and two boxes of clothes to get rid of and added to the special clothes that I have from the boys. One day I will make a quilt or something from it so that they are actually used. We shall see I know how to use my sewing machine now but quilting is a whole different monster. I will definitely try will just regular material before I take the scissors to the clothes, blankets, and bibs that I am just too attached to. There will be no episode tomorrow if there is school since I will be there taking pictures at the Valentine's party.

Well, it is after 10, so not before 9. I am going to keep trying though! Before I go to bed tonight I will as always pray for all of my family and friends. I have a special intention that I would love prayers from you all for. Thanks in advance.

Flying Ace

Well, today was a gorgeous but cold Tuesday. I had a lot to do, but am glad to say that I was able to get our taxes completed, they are being reviewed now, and then I will file them. I felt like it was worth it to pay the extra with the business included. I cannot wait till I actually have gains instead of losses. 2011 is a year of great blessings so this could be one of them.

John Michael had a great day at school. They had a dentist come to visit them, and this really made his day. I have to say I am glad that he liked his visit, now maybe he will be excited when we go visit the dentist. I plan to call tomorrow to make appointments for us to get cleanings.

Danny also had a great day, but his was slightly longer than his brothers 8:30-2. Danny was at school at 7:45 and he was there until 7:30. It appears that 12 hours at school is playing a toll. He was exhausted when he came home. We did get homework done though, we will redo the spelling test practice in the morning though, he was falling asleep writing. We did have a few minutes of fun with his airplane gun though, that I am now calling Flying Ace. That little thing moves!

Tomorrow Monica vs the House starts playing again and the episode will feature John Michael's room, this includes drawers and closets. Recaps will be available on tomorrow's blog.

Well, definitely not before 9...in fact almost tomorrow is more accurate, but it is all good as I got to spend some time with my best friend. She is the one who knows too much and I do not have to talk to daily to know that she is there, and the same goes for her. Very few people stay in your life and have the impact that she has had on mine. I love you Amy and thank you for everything!

Before I go to bed, I will be remembering you all in my thoughts and in my prayers. Many intentions have been on facebook, or sent through e-mail or text and you should all know that they are never ignored! While I often wish that I could do more for those I care for, I always will pray that the situation becomes what you most need and desire.

Craft Day and Pancakes

Today was Craft Day for John Michael's class. I love craft day because I get to spend a little time seeing my little man at school. It is so great to be a little part of his day. They made tiles for Valentine's Day with hand print hearts and a scripture. 1 Corinthians 13:13. They are too cute, a little large, but it is all good, I am going to figure out something creative to do with the tiles that I have collected so if anyone has ideas that would be great. I will be googling this when I am not so tired.

Brandon and the boys cooked dinner tonight. We had breakfast for dinner and pancakes are Brandon's specialty. It was delicious.

I started working on our taxes, with a business it is always stressful. I will be glad when I am making more and have to do them every quarter, it will force me to be a little more organized.

I am determined to get to a point that I am scrapbooking once a month, minimum! Preferably once a week, but that is probably not realistic.

I did find out a lot about Zumba at Pump it Up and I have to admit I am very interested. This whole week is crazy but I am getting a plan to get there. I am excited. I love having the DVDs and doing it at home, but I do miss doing it with a group!

Well, I am off to bed, I hope that you all have a great night! My prayers are going up for you all. I also would like to take a few minutes to ask that everyone say a prayer for those children who are out there and need homes. I was adopted and thank God everyday for amazing parents, there are so many children though that get shuffled through the system and I pray for them all.

Scout Sunday

Today was Scout Sunday, and it was a great one. The readers for Mass this morning were Cub Scouts and Brownies, and they did Amazing! I was so proud of them all, especially my Danny! He did the first reading and I think I was more nervous than he was. All of my prayers this morning were for him to do great and he did! Sam, Isabella, and Skye also did great! These were not easy readings and you would not have known that they did not use these words daily! I am so thankful for the comforting hand that Jesus placed on all of them while they were up in front of so many people!

We decided to go to the park for a little while to enjoy the sunshine while it was out! It seems to be a rarity these days so we took advantage of it! It was cold, but i comparison it was a 50 degree heat wave!

We also went by to see Brandon's mom, aka Meme, to tell her Happy Birthday! We hope that she had a great one, and wanted to at least give her a hug today! She seemed surprised to see us. We did not stay as long as we would have liked to, but we had to get to the store and get these boys ready for and in bed. The fact that it had been a long week/weekend was obvious!

Well, I doubt I get in bed before 9, since it is quarter till, but I am getting closer. I really want to see Glee tonight, but that is what the DVR is for! I do not think I will stay up, if the boys are asleep. Still working on that!

Before I go to bed tonight I will be praying for all of my friends and family. A very special friend of mine is saying goodbye to her husband as he leaves for Afghanistan. He is a wonderful friend, and an amazing dad and husband. It is their sacrifices that make it possible for me to blog what is on my mind, send my children to the school that I have chosen, worship in the church that I love, and basically be me and have an amazing husband with 2 amazing boys. We are not robots and that is because of the men and women in our military and their families. Do not forget about those who are defending us here in the US and throughout the world!

Saints Work the Court Again

I have never been a huge follower of basketball, and I even played for a while. The thing is I never actually understood. This year watching Danny and his team I have learned so much and enjoyed every practice and every game. Today they played Holy Family at St. Patrick's Church in Adamsville. They won 22-2, I was so proud of them all.

We really had a lazy day at the house. It was so cold and so we literally sat around and watched movies all day. Not at all what I wanted to do this Saturday, but it was a nice break. I tried to bribe the boys to get their rooms cleaned, but no such luck. I will continue to try, or I will go in with the garbage bags! We shall see what happens first. There is too much going on this month not to get this house finished.

Tomorrow is the Scout Mass at St. Francis Xavier, the 11:00 AM Mass. Danny is doing the first reading. He is so excited and I am so proud of him. In fact all of the readings for Scout Sunday are being done by second graders. I cannot believe that they wanted to do it. We tried to get older boys and girls, but they were not having it. I know that they will do great though!

I have a lot to do for the month of February and every time I think I have some control on it another day gets by me. Seriously 2011, I am working on enjoying every minute, but if they would stop counting so fast that would be great!

Tomorrow it is supposed to be in the fifties, not ideal, but a vast improvement!

Well, again not before 9, but it is all good! It will happen, maybe?!?! I will be praying for all of my friends and family. I love you all. So many people are sick or have sick kiddos right now and I pray that everyone is 100% healthy soon!