Is March Really Over?

Well I woke up this morning (almost on time) but with the crazy awareness that March is over. I am seriously not certain where it ran off too, but it was here and gone in an instant. It has been a month of many blessings and I cannot wait to see what April and the rest of the year holds!

John Michael got in the car so excited that they were about to start on letter Z...as in Zoo, Zig Zag, Zipper, and Zebra! When I asked him why he said "because it means it is almost time for me to go to Danny's school." This made my day. I have been worried about this transition for him and to know that he is this excited makes me feel really great!

Danny got in this afternoon in a mood and I knew something was up. He evidently got in trouble at lunch for talking too much. Needless to say I was not happy, but I was also very aware of how tired he is. I told him we would come home, do homework, take a shower, and go to bed. That is exactly what happened. He wanted to watch a movie that John Michael is not too fond of, so he laid down in his room and was out before 7:30!

John Michael and I watched Alice in Wonderland, the original Disney cartoon. I still have not seen the new one :( I love the cartoon though and it was great watching it with him, I just wish Danny could have been convinced to come and watch it too.

Well, the boys are in bed and I am about to head there myself. Tomorrow is going to be a busy one. Brandon is off, which is a plus since I am going to shoot a wedding with my friend Terri. I am super pumped. Watch for updates on the other blog!

I am also working on another photography project and could use some military contacts, as well as contacts at Children's hospital. Prayers would be greatly appreciated for this idea that I have that truly makes my heart happy.

I have also started recleaning everything out. I am just tired of it and I always do it so carefully and with a lot of one days and what ifs in mind. Needless to say this time if those two are needed it is obviously not!

Before I head to bed as always I will be saying a prayer for all friends and family. I wish you all an amazing April and I hope that March was full of many blessings!

P is for Pajama

John Michael's class is working on the letter P and guess what it is for Pajamas...so today was pajama day! He loves to get up and get ready in pajamas. He looked so cute in his batman PJ's. The only problem I had was they are shorts, and it was cool today, but I knew that they would be inside since it was such a nasty day so I did not fight with him about it! He was being too sweet and we were running too late for me to argue!

Danny had Mass today so he was all decked out in his tie! I love the fact that they dress up for Mass. I have to find him something super nice...like a suit for his first Communion.

Not to mention I still have to get them both something for Easter. They do not mind dressing up, but the shoes they do not care for at all. Oh well, time to go shopping! If only I had the money to do a lot of it. One day it will happen though.

Well, we had our cub scout pack planning meeting tonight. Easter Egg Hunt, Blue and Gold (yes, I know that we are behind schedule), Summer Camp, Summer Camp Out, Barons Game, etc.... It is going to be busy but it is most definitely all going to be fun!

We got Danny's baseball schedule today so hopefully John Michael's will arrive in our inbox by tomorrow. Needless to say please send all correspondence to me care of Clay Ball Park. I really do love the sport, I just wish that it would not rain every other day and that it would warm up. I always enjoy more activities when it is warm!

Well, I am off to bed. It is not before 9, but not too bad considering it is not 10 yet! Getting closer! Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for all of our family and friends. There are so many blessings that we ignore through the rush of life, but being able to just enjoy each day through this blog has made me more aware of each part of the day and while I am no where near where I want to be in many areas in so many areas I have made amazing progress. 365 Days of blessings has definitely been a blessing for me!

Baby Bottle Boomerang

Good evening everyone! Well, I am writing this and am truly dead on my feet! I will be glad when I can get in bed and get a full 8 hours sleep. Heck I would be happy with 5 or 6. Oh well, it will happen one of these days.

So this morning we were running late. By some miracle, possibly a heavy foot on the right while driving we made it on time. In fact I did things this morning I would usually not approve of, but seriously people during rush hour DRIVE or stay home for a little while longer.

John Michael's class practiced for the big wedding coming up. I am really excited! I hope that the rest of these parents come through with the money so that I can get to the grocery store. I will send another letter home Monday if I am still missing some. I will probably just send it to those who have not paid, this way everyone else is not bothered with it, then again it might go to everyone since sometimes the kids realize one person has something that the others do not. We shall see what the teachers think would be best.

Danny had a great day too. They are getting busy and I still have to get these interviews typed up for his teacher...seriously I am not getting the mom of the year award this go round. Danny had a lot of homework and it was horrible trying to get it done. I would have rather gone swimming with a cat or even spent the afternoon with a chalkboard and nails. GRRR...we managed though.

He did bring home the baby bottle for BABY BOTTLE BOOMERANG. This is a fundraiser for Her Choice that the 8th grade is doing for their confirmation. I will be accepting change if anyone wants to help fill it up!

I am working on editing the pictures from Around The World In 80 Days, and I have to tell you I am cracking up while going through them. This was such a great night for Brandon and I both! Watch the other blog for updates and more information!

Well, I am off too bed. I hope that everyone has an amazing night and stays safe through this weather heading our way. Before I go to bed I ask that you all pray for one of my high school coaches son who was in a bad accident over the weekend. Thank you all! Prayer will bond us while here!

Late Night at the Batting Cages

So tonight we were supposed to have a practice game for John Michael's team to give them a little taste of what it will be like when they are out there with another team. This morning however we got a text that the fields were closed, so we were at the batting cages from 7-8 but it ended up being closer to 9 before we were done. I had a team mom meeting from 7-8 so it was all good, but I know that the boys were tired. Both of mine were done we came home they took a bath and passed out.

Today was somewhat productive for me. I am working on 2 things for John Michael's class and am waiting on money from 9 more parents. One thing is more pressing than the other but they are both important with so many things going on I am hoping to get these wrapped up tight and ready to go. We shall see what happens. One is the Q and U wedding, the other is a surprise for their amazing teacher!

I am also working on something for Danny's teacher and well, there are 24 children in the class and I have money from 3 so we still have a ways to go. That 3 includes Danny! I will be sending reminders though, like all of us I know that there is a lot going on.

I was able to start working on the Cub Scout scrapbook as well as the 2009 scrapbook. It is amazing what I can do when I get determined. I am so ready to have everything the way that I want it and I know that I can get it there with a little more work and focus.

Of course we were on our way home from ball tonight and the brakes started to squeal. That is an expense that I cannot really afford right now. We shall see. Brandon wants me to have the bearings (sp?) checked too and see if the unexplained noise that the dealership, aka crooks, swear is not there. I will NEVER buy a dodge again. I do plan on writing them a long detailed letter of disappointment soon. Maybe I will do that this week. We shall see. With gas at 3.49 a gallon I can barely afford to fill up and I know that affording this right now is impossible.

Today I wore my room mom, team mom, chef's, housekeeper, scrapbooking, mom, and wife hats. Tomorrow I am sure it will be more of the same. I also have to put on my scouting hat Wednesday and probably for a little while tomorrow. Sometimes I feel like I am running in circles, at least there are blessing all the way around.

Well, the picture is a rare one, it has me in it. It is such a rarity that both boys want to lay with momma for a little while, so it was a special moment for me.

For now I say good night to you all. I will be praying for my family and my friends. There is so much happening all over the world, and the least all of us can do is pray for all of those affected.

Really Tired...

So today I was definitely under the weather. I even took some extra vitamins but nothing seems to help. I am sure it is a combination of my allergies not liking the weather changing and my asthma never cares for storms that come through. I just fight through it.

I did not manage to get anything done that I wanted to except getting Danny's first grade scrapbook put together. While I have to still cut a few things with the Cricut and print a few pictures just like with John Michael's 3K it is primarily done. The next ones I will be working on are 2010 and 2009, then it will be time to start on 2nd grade and 4K as well as starting to work backwards with the years. I hate the feeling of being behind but I will get there. I am more or less stalling on the earlier books because I know that they will be the hardest.

The boys scrapbooked a little too and I took a picture of their pages for you to enjoy. I thought that they were too cute!

Brandon was able to get the play that he has been working on done, I still have the pictures to edit, but those will be the focus for this week. I am supposed to help with a wedding on Friday so I plan to get those done before that.

I also have a lot around the house to do, but that I will do one day at a time starting tomorrow. I have a goal date and that is the end of April, but baseball is about to get going in high gear and classes are getting more challenging.

I am considering a break, we shall see though. I know that I could use it. It would enable me more time to be able to concentrate on the business and without the added pressure of deadlines in class. Not to mention the baseball, cub scouts, and school for the boys schedules that are currently being juggled. I am not 100% yet on what I will do or when but a break is one option I am considering seriously at least for the time being. Any advice would be great.

Well, I am off to bed. The boys just went to sleep. It is definitely a late night. Tomorrow we have baseball from 6-8 so it will not be easy getting in bed by 9, but I plan to try. Before I go to bed tonight I will be saying a prayer for all of my family and friends. I hope that you all had a memorable weekend and were safe through the storms.

Baseball, Storms and Scrapbooking!

Definitely a great Saturday! I have to admit I am exhausted especially after the on and off rain throughout the day and then the storms tonight, but it was truly an amazing day.

Both boys had practice today. John Michael at 11 and Danny at 2 so most of the day was spent at the ballpark. It was interesting with the rain coming and going, but they had a good time. Of course we came home and showers were a definite must along with some dry clothes. Danny was not too happy about a shower before dinner, but when we explained to him it was about a shower before the storms he stopped dragging his feet and did what we said. You know every once in a while mom and dad are pretty smart. Although it seems to be a rarity.

Did you know if your children have paper, pictures, a glue stick, and a cutter they will play for hours. My best friend for seriously ever came over tonight. Our husbands talk electronics while we worked on our scrapbooks. We have a lot to catch up on but thanks to the cricut it is all coming together nicely. I was able to get John Michael's K3 book done, with the exception of some pictures that I need to print and some more cutting that I need to do with the cricut. I will get that done this week though. Then onto Danny's first grade book. Then I might go on and do his 3K book so that other than the current school years we are up to date, well at least with that. Back to the original statement. Our children decided that they too needed to scrapbook and they did great. They had a blast and that is what I love. Plus they are adding to their creativity, which is always a good thing.

With the storms and us needing to watch the weather, we hooked the Wii up in John Michael's room. Well you know that they loved that so they literally would scrapbook and then play the Wii. It was too funny. I am already ready to do it again! Let's make a date!

Anyway, I made chicken and dumplings for dinner, they were yummy if I do so say myself.

Well, I am off to bed. Tomorrow is Mass, then cleaning, cooking, laundry and I am hoping a little scrapbooking, but I also need to be editing, so we will have to see how it all works out. Watch the blog tomorrow for updates on our Sunday! Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. I am so thankful that in reading my friend's blog baby Jemma is definitely making great strides. Keep the prayers up everyone!

Anything Else???

Wow! so I have realized that everyday is not a matter or making miles it is just making something happen. So that is all I intend to do. I want to do it all, but as each day has more and more responsibilities it is getting harder to keep them all. Letting others down is never in my agenda so I just do one thing at a time.

Today my dad would have been 63. Each year I think about how unfair it is that I cannot even call him and say "happy birthday" or "I love you." I told him, but it just was not the same not getting a response. It has not been in several years. I miss him so much.

Danny had school today and fortunately Brandon was off because I woke up a 4:20 with a blinding migraine! Not the way that I wanted to start the day, but he let me sleep while he took Danny to school and then even a few minutes after he got home. I was able to wake up (after some medicine) feeling much better.

I was determined to get one of the photography sessions that I had last week finished up and I am glad to announce that I did. Well, just now, but regardless it is done which is like a HUGE weight off my back. Now for the session from last weekend and I will be almost caught up. I do not like feeling like I am behind.

I was also able to finish Danny's 4K scrapbook. I went downstairs to get another box (2010) and started sorting it leaving nice piles in my living room. I have Danny's first grade stuff, John Michael's 3K and then all of our adventures from last year. I am trying to decide now whether to start with these or go through the rest of the boxes so that it is just a matter of picking a pile and getting it done! Decisions. Amy is coming over tomorrow night and we plan to play with the Cricut some more so we will see where that leads. Expect updates.

The crazy thing about Danny's 4K scrapbook is the last thing that my dad did with his school was go to the Pumpkin Patch with us. It was October 2007, and he dies December 2007. I have all of these pictures of the boys with my daddy, and it was hard to look at them and see him smiling and so happy to be with his boys. The last year that he was here with us he taught me so much about life and love and family and these are things I will never take for granted. Life is way too short!

I have decided that I will do Easter here again, I seriously like to entertain so it is right up my alley. But that means my house has to be in working order within a month's time. We shall see. I guess we need to let the mom's know that they do not have to worry about it and come up with a menu so we can tell everyone what to bring. This too could change, but we have the best yard for an Easter Egg Hunt so I doubt that it does. Plus I love doing it!

Baseball practice went great, just batting so it did not last too long. I saw an old friend and she is expecting. She is due in three weeks, but needs and extra 4 days so I hope that she gets it so she can finish up her student teaching! She looks great.

So we will be at the ballpark all day tomorrow. Contemplating a cooler full of beer? Hmmmm...

I am not long for bed, but before I go I want to wish you all a wonderful nights rest. I will say a prayer for everyone and I hope that you all do the same. We are joined in a lot of ways by what we pray for and it is the easiest most powerful thing that any of us can do.

The Wedding has Been Announced!

So to say that today started off rocky would be an understatement. We were on our way to school when Danny said he did not feel good grabbed a bag and decided to get sick. Needless to say I called the school and turned around heading to John Michael's school.

We got to John Michael's school and I told him to put on his shoes to which he responds "they are in Daddy's truck." Guess what we turned around went home got the shoes and headed back. Fortunately we were really early because of not taking Danny. The down side is gas is 3.45 a gallon and I wasted a lot today.

I took him to school, and delivered Morgan Makenzie's Baptism photo CD and video DVDs to her momma! It is always great to see them in the mornings.

Danny was much better by lunchtime, if it did not take me 30 minutes to get him to school he definitely would have been checked in. It is all good though. I did not get much done on the house, but I did finish the Christmas 2008 scrapbook. Still so many more to do though. I will get there.

We went to get John Michael from school and he had a great day. He told me all about being the one who goes down the isle at the wedding ringing the bell. I asked him who was getting married (of course this is information that I already have) and he said "Miss Q and Mister U." He was so excited that his best friend Sam is going to hold U and that his current girlfriend (this changes more often than I care to admit) Shanna is holding Q. He is so excited and I have to admit I am getting there too.

John Michael had practice tonight and since Brandon had to work late (normal for Thursday) Coach Tim took charge. It was a great practice and the boys had a blast.

We had to stop by Walgreens so I could pick up some pictures that I had printed. These are from when Danny was in 4K. I have started working on this book and actually have it done except the pictures. Anyway. As I was working on this and going through Danny's old work, John Michael was getting a kick out of the work that was the same. Well, we came across a picture of a bear and a matching page that Danny had done and it was the same page in John Michael's folder from today. They thought that this was great and I have to admit I got a kick out of it too. It is so amazing how different they are, yet how similar. In fact I was putting the class picture in the book and asked John Michael to see if he knew the teacher...he said "that's my Mrs. Hays" then I asked him if I could find Danny. He looked and looked and then said "no, but I think I found me, or a kid that looks like me." I asked him which one and he pointed to Danny. When I told him he just laughed and said that it was silly.

Well, I am not long for bed. Before I go to bed tonight I am praying for all of my friends and family. New and old I love you all. Please pray for baby Jemma tonight as she had a stint put in her head today, I am waiting news from her mom. Thank you all!

Pinewood Derby

So by far this is my favorite night of cub scouts. I love the Pinewood Derby probably because so many of the boys are so involved and so excited!
The boys did great, as always there are some who get upset, but they will do even better next year. I know our Wolves Cubs, who were obliterated last year as Tigers came back and almost won it all. Go boys! Our winner was Wyatt, a Bear Cub. Congratulations!
Danny was going to attempt the race and then baseball, but we did not make it. We tried. Of course we got a very disturbing call from his coach. His coach is great and you can tell takes a great interest in the boys. He is also knows a lot about baseball and how to really make the boys shine. Anyway, it appears that Danny said some not very nice things. We talked to Danny for a while tonight and he swears he did not do it, but he is still apologizing to the boy and his dad Friday at practice. Anyway, I just pray it NEVER happens again, as he definitely knows better.
The living room is almost back to pre Spring Break condition, just a few more things to take care of. I would have gotten it done if I felt better. Hopefully tomorrow. I love Spring if only I could get my sinuses and allergies to join me in my love.
Well, it is 9 and the boys are still going so I am off here to get them to bed and then myself to bed! By the way I was up on time this morning. YAY!!! Before I go to bed I will be praying for all of my friends and family. I hope that you all have had a great Wednesday and that your Thursday is full of many blessings!

Happy Birthday to my Mom...aka Nana

Well today was a mess. We woke up late AGAIN, but we still managed to get to where we needed to be and on time, which is always a plus. I wish I knew why we were waking up late though. We hoped to be in bed tonight by 9, but as you can see we did not make it.

Today is my mom's birthday! I hope that she had an amazing one. We all called her and she seemed to be having a good day. She is an amazing person, and she has been through a lot and truly deserves nothing but the best.

On top of everything else that was happening today I forgot about the Pinewood Derby that is tomorrow night, so we had to get Danny's car done. Well, Danny had to get it done. He decided on a Camouflaged car, that he painted. We used the hair dryer to get it dry so that it could be decorated, and the weight added. I am impressed, it is done. Now the race tomorrow should be fun. As soon as Danny races we will head to the ballpark, so we will not stay for the whole race, but I know it will be fun. I plan on getting in some pictures when we get there. I am hoping for one group shot. We shall see.

I got letters out to both the classes that I needed to get out. Well John Michael's will go out tomorrow. Danny's was sent via e-mail. Now to get the e-mail to the baseball parents for John Michael's team. Not to mention to the Cub Scout leaders.

To top it all off I just do not feel good. I do not know what it is but I want to curl up in the bed and sleep all day. If only that was truly a viable option.

Well, I am off to bed. Tomorrow is going to be crazy but I also know that it will be fun. I am up for the challenge, I just hope that I feel better too! I do not like feeling bad. Before I head off to bed I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. I would also like to ask everyone to say a special prayer for my mom. She is a great person and needs to remember that she still has a life to live and if she will open her heart back up it will be an amazing one. I love you mom!

Back to School...and Homework....and Baseball

Spring Break was great while it lasted, even though we did not venture out of Birmingham, which is pretty sad. We knew that it had to come to an end and now the countdown for summer officially begins! I love summer and unlike Spring Break I will not neglect the duties I have at home. I am working on making up for that, but more later.

The boys were no fun waking up this morning, even Brandon and I slept later than the norm for a Monday. All I know is we were on time though and that was the goal. We did get them out of bed and ready for school finally, with pop-tarts being toted to the van for breakfast. Yes, I know I should have made breakfast, but there was no time. That is the goal for tomorrow.

Well, I had a few errands to go run and then it was home to work. 2 loads of laundry done, dishes done, the living room is almost back to pre-Spring Break condition. I also had to finish up a paper for school, and work on some pictures. There was also a letter for baseball that had to be reviewed and 2 for cubscouts to be sent. Dinner had to be cooked, I had it ready before I left to pick up the boys and finished it up when I got home so that we could eat and get to the ballpark.

Brandon got Danny for me, he had Chess today so he stays a little later than normal. They got home, that homework got done and we ate, changed clothes and headed out. Watch out ballpark we are on our way! Danny had practice today and the boys did great, it was a shorter practice than normal but they worked. I am so proud of the progress that he has made already this year. Opening Day is April 2 and we cannot wait. It should be a fun day and then we will spend probably more time at the park, but it will be a blast as my Yankee and Tiger go to the fields on game days. As we were leaving the ballpark the sky was truly amazing, and I was glad to snap a shot or 2 for the blog.

Well, we are home, baths have been given, the boys are finally asleep and I am headed there myself. I am tired and 4:30 comes early. Hopefully I will get up on time without any problems. I am asking all of you to continue to pray for Baby Jemma, she is making great daily strides. Also, please say a prayer for my mom whose birthday is tomorrow. I want her to have a great one! Before I go to bed I will be praying for all of my friends and family. I hope that all of your wants and needs are met and then some!

I was thinking today that there is so much we do that we stress about. I know that I am guilty, but as I have started to make sure I embrace the things that normally stress me out, I am able to feel more relaxed and truly enjoy life. We can only do what we can do.

First Day of Spring!!!

Well, the night before school goes back into session after Spring Break is also the first day of Spring. Something off in that equation, but what can you do? Anyway, at least it was a gorgeous week and we all return to real life tomorrow. The boys were out of school and I decided I was not going to clean, well minimal cleaning. The kitchens and the bathrooms and laundry can never be avoided, even when on vacation. Oh well. Tomorrow I will take the boys to school, hopefully we will not be late, then I have a few errands to run, then home to clean and get my act back in gear. Watch the post tomorrow night to see how that plays out.

I am most worried about the running late, it is 10 and the boys have just now fallen asleep. I am tired, and know I need to go to bed, but my mind is in overdrive. I have so much to edit, and so many ideas that I want to pan out. We shall see.

The store was on the agenda today so that I could get some spray for the wasps. I also plan to take back over my back deck this week, I love the sun and plan to be in it as much as possible this spring and summer. I am also ready for the beach and the lake. I do not think it is possible to spend too much time at either place. Maybe one day I will have the money to permanently reside at one of the two places or at least visit the beach more often. Really hoping for a trip to the beach just the four of us this year, but definitely need some jobs lined up.

I hope that everyone has a great night, I will be headed to bed shortly, but not sure where sleep falls into that category. Hopefully soon. Before I go to bed I will as always say a special prayer for all of my friends and family. I have a special request for my mother-in-law, who just needs to know what she means to all of us and how amazing we think that she is. Well, we know that she is.

The pictures from today are the boys making bouncy balls...they love this kit! I have already bought a few more for Christmas presents for others so watch out!!! Most of today has been about getting ready for tomorrow and working on the pictures that I have to get edited and the video that Brandon has to get ready! It was a great day though!

Ballpark, Birthday Parties, and Plays

Today was definitely a day and we literally were going non stop, but it was great. Except for the fact thatI forgot my camera for the first half of it. Go figure. I always have it, and today I felt a little lost.

We started this morning with John Michael's practice. It was a great one. We spent most of it making sure the boys knew where to throw the ball when they got it and teaching them to call time. This age is so much fun as they are constantly learning and you can watch them absorb so much. We are also working with finding out where they will play in the fied, and let me assure you that is no easy task.

After John Michael's practice we headed to Elliott's 5th birthday party. It was a Toy Story party and I hope that he liked his Buzz that John Michael picked out for him. His cake was so cute, and the house looked amazing as alway. If only my house could be that clean...EVER! I decided that we were drive by partiers because we could not stay but about 20 minutes. We dropped the present spoke to everyone and then left. It was seriously...hello, how are things, good bye. I hate that we could not stay, but I am glad that we were able to go. I hope that he had a great party.

We left the party to head to the ballpark where Danny's team had a practice game! They did amazing. I was so proud of all of them. We did not keep score, but it was definitely a great game!!

Brandon and I came home changed clothes, while the boys rode with Nana. They were going to get something to eat and then came to the house, but decided just to come on to the house. Nana watched the boys while Brandon and I went to the Birmingham Festival Theatre. Now I have lived here all 30 years of my life and had no idea about this theatre, but I am glad that I do now. He was videoing the play for the cast and I was taking photographs, and it was amazing. Defnitely a great 2 hours. Around the World in 80 days was the play and it was just great! There was nothing lacking. It was a great night!

Now we are home and I have a photosession to edit from earlier in the week, and this one. And we have yet to eat since breakfast. Brandon decided that we would stop at Wal-Mart and pick up a frozen pizza, which is cooking now. I am going to work on pictures, then eat, then work on pictures some more. Hoping to catch a nap.

Well, Before I do close my eyes I will be praying for all of my family and friends. So many times we all complain about how busy we are, and while it is true, we should be thankful for all that we have to do! I have decided to embrace the GO GO GO and Love it while I am Living it! I hope that you all do the same.

Spring Break Friday

Today was the last official day of Spring Break, of course we have the weekend, but it has been a great week. Except that it is more than obvious I have completely neglected my daily chores of cleaning! I wanted to enjoy time with the boys, and while I could not stop with the laundry everything else went by the wayside, that is what next week is for right?!

Today was an exceptional lazy day. I was actually looking forward to laying out on the back deck. I want to shield as many as I can from me in a bathing suit. Anyway, when I went outside today I was run off by red wasps on a mission to destroy. I thought I had wasp spray so I could turn their mission into a suicide one, but I was wrong. I will be investing in some though as I love the sun and will not be kept away by some crazy creatures. On tomorrow's to do list.

We decided to take advantage of the day, and I scrapbooked almost all day and worked on pictures that needed to be edited. It was great to be able to get some things done that I have wanted to do and not had the time. Well, the pictures I have been working on, but scrapbooking is a different story. I have so much stuff to get into books that our office in unusable until I get it done. I actually completed one book...2008's year in review and moved onto the Christmas 2008 album. I love Christmas so it always gets a book to itself. I am still working on it. I completed the pictures of Morgan Makenzie's Baptism. Brandon completed the editing of the Baptism video and those are ready to be delivered. Hopefully I will be able to get in touch with Kimy and we can get them to her this weekend. Danny even helped me with scrapbooking which was a lot of fun for both of us.

Baseball practice was canceled tonight, which I have to admit I was okay with. I have been up their every night this week so a night off was a nice change.

Well, I am off to bed since it is almost tomorrow and I have a long day ahead of me. John Michael has practice, we have a Birthday party to go to, Danny has a practice game and then Brandon is videoing a play and I am doing photographs. It will be a great day with lots of pictures! Before I go to bed tonight I am saying a prayer for all of my friends and family. I am also saying a special prayer that this project is the beginning of many doors opening for Brandon and myself. We are ready for great changes!

Spring Break Thursday and Happy St. Patrick's Day

Spring Break is almost over and I have to admit I am a little sad. I do not feel like we have done anything really. I wanted to go somewhere so bad, and so did the boys. Next year I will have to plan better and try to save so we can make a trip, even if it is a short one.

Today was also St. Patrick's Day. I love this holiday and I think it is because it is all fun. Unfortunately there was no green beer for me. I thought about adding some food coloring to my wine, but decided against it since it was just me and the boys. Brandon got home not that long ago from his long day at work.

The boys and I dressed in our green, I had to shield us from the pinching leprechauns! We had a fun day. Danny got some new shorts. He had none. Well, one pair that I bought him before a birthday party a few weekends ago, but that was it. The downside to cleaning out the closets. I also took the boys to CVS, they have been begging to go. Danny got a telescope, if he is still into it we have a nicer one that we got a few years ago put up for him. It might workout for Christmas this year. John Michael got Play-Doh and a zhu-zhu puppy. Boys will be boys. They had a blast playing. I felt like they needed a special surprise.

I did manage to lay out for about thirty minutes. Not long but definitely some much needed Vitamin D. I so love the sun. I am hoping to get at least an hour in tomorrow, but we shall see. I also finished editing one set of the three I have to do. While I was laying out I started to read Charlie St. Cloud. I have wanted to see the movie for a while, but had to read the book first. Well, I have read it all, could not put it down. All I know is I need a new box of tissues before I get the movie, I used the one I had with the book.

After playing with the new goodies it was baseball time! Seems like that is going to be a major part of my life through at least May. Again it is a good thing I love it! John Michael had another night of watching his brother, he doesn't have practice until Saturday morning. He brought a few things to play with and was great.

We came home to look at the moon for a little while with the new telescope then showers and bed time. Now it is almost midnight and I am headed to bed! Before I go to bed I will be praying for all of my friends and family. I am also saying a special prayer tonight for several people. One is baby Jemma who is continuing to improve every day. The second is for my friend Terri. So many things happen and while they might seem small they can also seem like mountains that we must climb. Know that all mountains can be climbed, but do not ever go alone. Arm yourself with God, and with the support of family and friends. I love you all! Thank you for always making my mountains seem smaller.

Spring Break Wednesday

So today the boys finally decided to help me a little and at least get their games out of the living room floor and back in the game closet. This was a HUGE surprise so I gave them some Dino Dig Eggs that Brandon and I had gotten for them.

Danny has really gotten into dinosaurs and these were right up his alley. He was working on his for almost an hour when I had to make him stop so we could eat dinner and high tail it to the ballpark.

We had practice tonight, well Danny did. He is really enjoying his time at the park and I am so proud of him. He is listening to the coaches and I know that he will grow a lot in baseball this year. I am hoping that we can take him to an Auburn baseball game this Spring. I think that he would get a big kick out of it. We shall see if it all works out before the season is over.

John Michael had a blast just running around at the park. They were both worn out when they got home. Showers and bed, which works for me.

Now that it is almost 11 I am off to bed. Before I go I will remember all of my family and friends in my thoughts and prayers. I am seriously hoping for some good news soon and I am sure that everyone is in some walk of their lives. I pray that you all get that good news soon! I know that the entry is short tonight, but I am exhausted and tomorrow will be a long one.

Spring Break Tuesday

Tuesday of Spring Break has come and is almost gone. Sort of sad how quick this week always goes by. I wish that we would have had the money for a short trip, but it is what it is. Maybe later this year we will be able to do something.

John Michael's black eye is continuing to iprove. Poor little guy.

This morning the boys and I went to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens for a photo shoot that I had. It was a great shoot with two wonderful boys and even a few with mom and dad too! It is always nice to get the family in for a shoot or two! Watch the Photography blog for more on this great family and their session.

This was the first time the boys had been to the gardens, with the exception of for a wedding. They really seemed to have a good time. I cannot wait to take them back once everything is in bloom and colorful. The tuplis were gorgeous though. They seemed to be pretty excited about going back as well. We shall see how that plays out.

Well, we came home and I got dinner ready, a load of laundry done, and then Brandon came home we ate and headed out for the ballpark. John Michael had practice tonight. It went well. He seems to be having a blast and so does Brandon. Tomorrow, Thursday, and Friday Danny has practice and then Saturday John Michael has practice and Danny has a practice game.

Today was Elliott's birthday and we hope that he had an amazing day. We cannot wait to be at his party on Saturday. I hate that we are not going to be able to stay long, but that is the law of the ballpark these days! We are excited to celebrate the big 5 with him!

NOT happy with the local weather man. He just decided to talk about a cold snap in early April...all I can say is NO!!!!!!!

Well, I am so tired. I am hoping that I can get to sleep soon instead of running 1000 things through my min as soon as my head hits the pillow. We shall see. Before I go to bed I will say a special prayer for all of my family and friends. I am also praying for all of those traveling during Spring Break. We are staying around the house, and I am hoping that I can make the week special for the boys. Till tomorrow!

Spring Break Monday

So I know that I have used my boys sleeping for my daily pictures but the last 2 nights it is something that neither of them have done much of so tonight it seemed important to capture the moment while it was here. They are so sweet while they are sleeping. I am hoping that they will continue being sweet tomorrow when they come with me for a photo shoot at the Botanical Gardens.

So today we went to see Rango. It was cute, definitely will not make my top ten favorite movies, even animated ones, but it was cute. The boys LOVED it, and that is what matters the most to me. They have a list of movies that we HAVE to see. Some of them Brandon and I are excited about too, like Hop and the Smurfs. Now to win a lottery so that we can afford to take them that often.

Well, I know that this is a short entry, but I am exhausted. I do want to wish Nick a very Happy Birthday. I hope that you had a great day.

Looking forward to the photo shoot tomorrow and then baseball practice tomorrow night. It should be a lot of fun. Getting things ready for my Easter Egg Hunt on Morris Avenue. I think I am going to practice with the boys, if they will let me.

Well, before I head to bed I will be remembering all of my family and friends in my thoughts and prayers. We all have so much going on and a few minutes throughout the day to ask God to take care of those who need it and those we care about.

A Much Needed Day of Rest

So time changed, and even though I remembered last night, I so forgot to change the clocks that I have to change. Usually we have the alarm on our phones set so we would have been okay, but not this morning. We slept late, REALLY late, but so did the boys and they really needed it. Praying that everyone gets back on schedule tomorrow. Even though it is Spring Break it is our only day with Daddy home so we are going to see Rango.

We really had a relaxing day, we just lounged around and enjoyed the day. We went in the back yard and threw the ball around for a little while. The boys had a blast and so did I. I think Brandon was glad to get his arm worked out after two days and three practices of throwing the ball. Playing made me really miss softball, but seriously, there is not any time for that. Maybe one day I will get on an adult team. For now I am going to enjoy being at the park for my boys!

Danny was really excited to drink an Auburn Coke!

John Michael's face is looking a little better as far as the swelling, but the bruise is starting to look worse. I know it is part of it getting better, but it breaks my heart.

We did try to find some knee savers this evening for our catcher boy Danny, but no such luck. Come on Academy we need these!!! We are going to check a few places tomorrow including online. You would think these would be as easy to find as catching gear...considering they go together. What do I know though.

So on the news tonight I saw that there is an average of $18,000 a year spent on every prisoner and an average of $3,800 a year spent on each student. Does anyone else see the problem here. This is why I want to get into politics. Something needs to be done about this. I am all for stale bread and water for their meals....why exactly do they deserve more? Hell, that is more than some American families live on. SAD SAD SAD!

So it is 11:30 and I am way past my bedtime! I am headed there as soon as I post this! Before I go to bed I want all of my friends and family to know that I am praying for them. I would also like to ask you all to pray for an old friend of mine Kim and her baby Jemma and who is in NICU at Children's, as well as their family. Thank you all so much. We all know that God has amazing hands and I just want this family to feel His presence and see His miracles!

Today I am 30!

Well, I am officially 30 and well I feel like I did when I was 29. I am excited though. I cannot really explain it, but I truly feel like this will be an amazing time in my life. I have an amazing husband and two wonderful boys and I cannot wait to see what God has in store for us. I received so many e-mails, texts, phone calls, FB posts, and in person happy birthdays today. Thank each one of you for the birthday wishes.

John Michael had practice today at 10. It was such a difference in temperature that it was wonderful. I was a Popsicle last night and even though there was some wind today in comparison to last night it was great. The boys all did very well. Poor John Michael's swollen lip and bruised cheek did produce a black eye this morning. He looks pitiful but acts like it does not bother him. I will say he has stayed away from the press boxes since Thursday night though.

Jacobs birthday party was today at Lightening Strikes. The boys were so excited, because they finally got to go bowling. They have been wanting to go and we just have not been able to. Now they cannot wait to go back. I actually am excited about taking them back. I used to bowl in a league and I really enjoyed it. It is a fun sport and I hope that we can make it work so that we all go more.

After Jacob's party it was time for Danny to go to practice. He also had a great practice. The boys all did very well and seemed to really be getting into it. I am so ready for game time for both boys, of course I am sure that the coaches are looking forward to a little more practice.

After the ballpark Brandon and the boys took me to dinner. It was so nice to have a nice dinner with the family. The best part was I did not have to cook it or clean up after it. We went to Outback and it was very good. I was so proud of how sweet the boys were, but I think a lot of it was simply because they were so tired.

Well, it is definitely after 9 and with the time change that is coming it is going to feel even later in the morning. Oh well, maybe with Spring Break and baseball I can get the boys and myself on a better schedule. I do think we are going to use our Sunday for a day of rest, we might venture up to the lake if the water is still rising just to check on things. We shall see.

As always before I head to bed I will be remembering all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Special prayers are still going up for all of those in Japan and across the world who are effected by the earthquakes and tsunamis that took place. I am also saying a special prayer that the boys sleep in a little tomorrow. We are planning on the later Mass so we can all rest and they really need it! Thank you all again for the many Birthday Wishes!

What an ending to my 20's

Today was a wonderful day, even though it was crazy it was a lot of fun. I cannot believe that it is my last day of being in my 20's. Actually as I am writing this I am 30, well not technically until 5:37 am. I am actually looking forward to my 30's. I figure that all that I learned in my 20's will help guide me well. I know that there are wonderful blessings cooking for me and I am looking forward to them!

Brandon was off today, he reached his 40 last night so we had our to do list ready to go. We took Danny to school and headed to the lake to check on things. With the waters rising we needed to get some things moved up a little. It is always an interesting sight when the lake is flooded. There is something peaceful, yet sort of spooky. John Michael had a blast, even though we did not stay long at all.

John Michael did wake up this morning with a swollen lip and cheek. He says that it does not hurt, but as a momma I cannot help but worry a litte bit. I am hoping it looks better tomorrow.

The news this morning about the earthquake in Japan was heartbreaking and then it was finished off with a Tsunami. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone effected by these disasters that have effected not only Japan but many areas throughout the world including the US.

Tonight was John Michael's first baseball practice which was so much fun. The boys were tired being out there from 6 to 8 but it is an adjustment. They will be used to it soon. The fact that it was so cold was also hard to deal with. We all survived though. Tomorrow's practice is at 10 am so hopefully it will be warmer. Danny's practice is at 3 pm. Needless to say ballpark time has started.

My evening was made though when I saw Beth and Josie! It was definitely great to see them and I wish I was not going to be all over the place tomorrow so we could get together. It will happen soon.

I came home and had my scrapbooking night with Amy. The kids were great, and they played so good together! I am working on my 2008 Scrapbook right now, mainly because it was the first one that I came to, but I have so many to get done. You have to start somewhere though and that one was the winner. right now it is the "year in review" style album. Then I will do a Christmas specific one. I do have a lot of pictures to print, but I have the books waiting on them and in order. Well, almost still a lot to get through to be done, but I am making progress. I also got the Cricut out of the box and used it and I have to admit I am in love with it! I have a lot to learn about it, but I am so glad that I did not wait till I was 30. Amy even caught the moment with her camera. It is always great to spend time with Amy. Thank you so much for coming over tonight my friend, I had a wonderful time and am already ready to do it again!!! I love you!

Well, I am off to bed so I can enjoy my birthday later on this morning! Before I go to bed as always I will say a prayer for my family and my friends. I also will be saying and hope that you do also a prayer for all the victims and their families of today's disasters.

Report Cards, Baseball and Busted Lips

Today was John Michael's last day of school before Spring Break. Needless to say he was excited. He was not thrilled that the beach was not in our plans. If we had the means though it would be! He is so much like me when it comes to the beach...LOVE IT!!!

Danny has tomorrow to go but did get a special out of uniform day for raising over $35 for Jump Rope for Heart. It was also 3rd quarter report cards. I was so proud of him. He is reading over 100 words a minute and had all A's and 2 B's. His Conduct and all that jazz was superb. All over the board a VERY happy momma and daddy! BTW...if he was in public school it would be all A's. Tougher scale in private school which is good.

Tonight was Danny's first baseball practice. It was great to be back on the fields with my boys. It would have been better had it not been so bitterly cold. Danny did great, and was really glad to be back out there. Tonight's was a basic practice just to get the boys back in the swing of things.

John Michael fell after practice and busted his lip. It is so swollen, and just breaks my heart. I hate it when the boys are hurt, and for him to have cried as long and as hard as he did I know that it hurt. It looks like there is a possible black eye too, but I guess we will have to see what the morning brings. I just hope that it does not hurt anymore. He has his first practice tomorrow night.

So it seems that there is some flooding taking place at the lake so after we drop Danny off at school we will be heading that way. If it is not here it is there. What can you do though?

Well it is after 10 again, and I am just now heading to bed but it is what it is. Maybe I should start aiming for 10 instead of 9....things to think about. Tomorrow is my last day in my 20's so I am planning on having a good day and am really looking forward to scrapbooking with Amy! It has been too long and I am so far behind! Anyway. I am off to bed. Before I go to bed I will be praying for all of my friends and family. I am also saying a special prayer for my friend Terri....she needs a "Hey I am ok."

Ash Wednesday

Today is Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. I am interested to see how we all do with the things that we have chosen to give up. I am so proud of Danny and the choices that he has made. I hope that he can do well and I have told him that we will help him and encourage him. We went to the 9:00 Mass today, which is the school Mass. This enables us to be in Mass together, we missed Brandon but he could not get off work, and we understand that. Today was also the last Mass for the second grade to be the choir. I am a little sad about that, I love hearing them sing.

John Michael and I came home today to find that the garage had flooded, which was just a mess. I was planning on sweeping out the garage today, but it is what it is. John Michael had a blast out back in the water and in the mud while I got everything done. It was not ideal, but it is behind us now, with minimal damage.

Grocery shopping was done after dinner tonight, and I only forgot a few things. I have to get better with lists and I need couponing advice. Hopefully I will get it all figured out enough for use soon.

Today was also Brian's birthday. For those of you who do not know Brian is Brandon's baby brother. We all wish him the happiest of birthdays. I know that God has given him many blessings in the past years and we hope that they continue this year and all the years in the future. Brian is a wonderful person and I am so thankful that my children are blessed with an Uncle Brian.

Well, it is after 10, so definitely not before 9, but it is all good, I am headed to bed soon. I am a little sad that it is going to be colder tomorrow, but I am hoping that the sun is out at least. Before I go to bed I will remember all of my family and friends in my prayers. This Lenten season when I am craving the things that I have given up I plan to increase my time in prayer. I think that it will bring me closer to living the Gospel.

Happy 30th To the Love of My Life

Today my amazing husband turned 30 years old. It is amazing when I think about the fact that we have known each other for over half of our lives and I have loved him for half of mine. We met when we were 14 years old. The first time we dated we were 15 years old and I knew then that he was my heart, my better half, the person who truly completed me. Well, he needed a little more time than me to figure that out so we went our separate ways. We stayed in touch on and off through the next few years and then we were on and within a few months engaged and then married. Brandon has made my 20's amazing. At 20 - He proposed. At 21 - We were married. At 22 - We had Danny. At 25 - We had John Michael. Each year has been so important and there have also been some hard times that I know I would have never made it through without him. I cannot wait to see how remarkable our 30's will be. I will join him Saturday in the 30's for now I plan to enjoy my last days in my 20's.

I thank God everyday for the many blessings that He has given to me. Each day is a new blessing and I know that He is responsible for everything that is good in our lives. I cannot wait to discover each blessing that comes in our 30's and beyond. I have grown closer to God and am more comfortable with my faith and I know that it is because of having such an amazing husband.

This morning we sang happy birthday to Brandon and then tonight I surprised him with one of Amy's famous peanut butter cakes (thank you so much Amy and as always it was delicious). The boys also had to give him birthday spankings which was too funny!

Well, it is after 9, but not too late. I am headed to bed since both boys are finally asleep. Before I do I will be praying for all of my friends and family just as I do every night. If you are blessed enough to have your significant other with you make sure you say I love you to them tonight and everyday!