April is Gone?!

It is really hard to believe that April has come and gone. I cannot believe that we have passed 4 months already in 2011. WOW is about all I can say.

I have decided to use my photography business to help the victims of the tornadoes that ripped through the state on April 27. I will be donating all my profits to these victims. I will also give a free session to all people who were affected. I wish that I could do more, but I have nothing extra to give monetarily, but I can give what I make to those who need it more than I do. Towns are gone and I hope that I can do something to help them rebuild.

We were going to take some of our cub scouts down to help tomorrow, but we will be waiting until next weekend when we can plan a little more at our upcoming meetings. I am not sure if we will take donations of items or if we will be taking donations of money and purchasing food to take to everyone. Hot dogs, or sandwiches, or something of that nature. Something that the boys could take down and pass out to help people. Stay tuned to my blog as I announce when and where we will collect and what we will be collecting.

Both boys had games today. John Michael played Pinson at Clay and Danny played Pinson at Pinson. Now let the rant begin. John Michael's team lost, but Brandon said fielding they had down, but they could not hit. Hopefully we will get it all together soon and these boys can get a win under them. Danny's team lost, but it was such a crooked game. The umpires at Pinson are anything but fair. They obviously are in need of glasses and a reminder that they are paid to be fair. It was seriously nuts. The ballpark was about run down and it is sad since it is not that old...the bathroom well let's not even go there. The water was brown...seriously brown! Scary stuff. I was just glad to go home. Looking forward to playing at Clay next week. I hated that I had to miss John Michael he got a hit and made it to base! Anyway, sorry I needed to vent for a few minutes.

We came home and watered the plants and played outside for a while then came in and ate and then Brandon went to cut his hair. The boys decided that they wanted their hair cut too and well it is SHORT! Brandon did not change the guards. They like it an fortunately it will grow back. ;)

Now I am headed to bed! I am praying for all of my friends and family as well as the tornado victims. I heard tonight that 11 tornadoes have been confirmed to have hit down. One stayed on the ground from state line to state line. It is absolutely devastating.

Relay For Life

Today started off very hectic, the boys woke up wild. They tore the shelf down above our bed, well John Michael did jumping to get a hat off of it, after I had told both of them to get off my bed. Needless to say it just escalated from there. I have no idea what the deal was but I think it is Easter candy overload and the lack of school! John Michael will be out again on Monday, but Danny returns so there will be some kind of normalcy happening.

Tonight was the Relay for Life. This is something that means so much to me. We walk in memory of my daddy. I wish that I could write that we were walking because he was a survivor, but there are many out there who are. We walk so that hopefully one day there is a cure and so that more birthdays are celebrated each year. We walk with the hopes that nobody else has to tell there Daddy or their Granddaddy goodbye so early in life. I could go on but for this I will let the pictures talk for me.

Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. Those whose lives are turned upside down by natural disasters, such as the tornadoes that we just experienced, or by something like cancer are on my heart heavily. I pray for you all and I hope that everyone is able to find away to celebrate life and the fact that we are alive and can make a difference.

A Day for Prayer

Waking up this morning was almost like waking up in a dream, everything seemed so impossible, and then the news was on and it became more than real. There was a lot to do today too, but we managed through.

First was getting to John Michael's zoo field trip. Danny was out of school so he got to go with us, which was fine with him. I told them before we left we would not be there long and that we did not have the money to go to everything so we would go check out the trails of Africa at least and then as soon as Daddy called we would have to leave. I will say I cannot wait to go back, but with their new prices the only way that will happen is with a zoo pass. We have done that in the past and I will say it is a great summer trip. The new prices though are slightly insane!

Well, Brandon called literally as we walked out of the Trails of Africa. We left and went home. Of course the boys' did not want to leave, but it was discussed and we left.

We went home and headed to the lake. We have a place there and we knew that it went through the area so we needed to go check on everything. The thing is it either needed to be fine or completely gone, because I do not have the money for repairs right now. Again, God protected our property and we arrived to find everything ok. Now we did not try the water or power, but everything was ok. We are very thankful for the many blessing that we received when so many were not as fortunate.

The boys want to be a part of the clean up and while I want to help in anyway that I can I also know that sometimes tiny extra hands can just be in the way. We talked to my brother in law who took off to help in Tuscaloosa and he said that they should be able to help with handing out the donations that people bring to the people who need it. This means the world to them and makes me feel good that I can do something with my hands. With my heart I continue to pray for everyone who is involved.

We came home and Brandon's mom and Meemaw came over for dinner and to wash some clothes. They are still without power. I pray that it comes on soon as they have a neighbor who is disabled and the machines that are needed to keep him alive run on power. They do have a generator, but I do not know how much fuel they have. I know that his mom and dad always have his health first and I pray that the power is on soon so that they can at least sleep a little easier. So many of us forget that power does not just mean the ability to play the Wii or watch TV to many it is life and death.

The pictures today are from the zoo, and the other is a tree that was down on our way home from the lake, this was just one of so so many. There was so much damage between us and Pell City, and I know that it is worse throughout the state.

Well, we are about to go to bed. Know that there is nobody involved that is not in my prayers. The victims of these horrible storms, the power company employees who are working around the clock, the rescuers, the friends and family of those who lost their lives, the clean up crews, the insurance adjusters, the media, and the list goes on. Love and many prayers going out to everyone!

Wednesday Storms

So I am still a day behind, but with the storms last night I did not turn the computer back on. I will catch up tomorrow, or maybe tonight.

The pictures are actually from the morning's storms.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011 was a day that started and ended with storms that were beyond severe. I have lived in Alabama my whole life and NEVER have I seen anything like what happened.

It all started at about 4:30 when we were woken up by our weather radio going off. We got up to watch the weather and let the boys sleep. It was about 5:30 when we could literally feel our house shaking. We went and grabbed the boys and put them downstairs. Brandon said that he did not even know he could still pick up Danny especially from a sleeping state. We waited down stairs watching the weather and when the straight line winds were past us we brought the boys upstairs and let them sleep for a little longer, but this time in the living room. We got ready for school and headed out. We had to detour our normal route due to trees down. I got Danny to school without too many problems, just a lot of trees and limbs down. On the way to John Michael's school there were many more trees down and as we got closer I wondered if they even had power. They did not so I paid for the zoo and we came home. Danny's school closed at noon and so did the Network, so Brandon picked up Danny and they came home.

The first part of the afternoon seemed mild. Then it started.

First was watching the tornado live in Culman. It was unbelievable and very scary. Usually these storms come through overnight and they cannot be seen because of the terrain in Alabama and or the fact that it is dark, this was totally different. This storm was very big, and the damage was scary.

Then a storm was headed for Tuscaloosa, this path usually means it is headed for us next. We watched the weather as the stations were getting their cameras aimed in the direction the storm would be coming. When it showed up it was HUGE. My heart sank for all of the students and the parents of those students who were not there to hold their babies. I know when weather is bad there is nothing that I prefer to do than know that my family is together. We watched in complete shock as this monster ripped through the city. It was truly the most terrifying thing that I have ever seen. As we continued to watch this monster was headed to us on the ground.

The landmarks that were being used for this mile wide storm were less than a mile from us. We had moved our Christmas decorations from under the stairs and went in there. We took the cushions from the couch in the den to cover with and we prayed. We heard the storm, the hail and then a strange sound followed by silence. We knew then it was over us. We prayed and then it was over. We are so thankful that we are safe, our house was safe and all we know is that it is because we put it in God's hands and He kept it in the air above us and did not let it drop down. Our prayers quickly changed into prayers of Thanks and then for the safety, and healing of the many people who were not so lucky.

We went outside, picked up the debris that had dropped and came back in to continue to watch the weather. There was another line of storms, but in comparison it was nothing. We also watched as the tornadoes continued to devastate other areas in the state.

We went to bed with heavy hearts and many prayers.

A little Late...

So we came home from the ballpark last night and got the boys ready for bed, and while getting them to sleep I also passed out, so I am a little late with the blog, but this is for Tuesday.

Both boys had ballgames tonight. John Michael's team lost, but they were playing much better by the end of the game. It had been a week since they had played and they were playing the best team. We have a mom on the team though, that is on my last nerve. She is all about winning and her son being amazing, well I am telling the world now, he is not! We spend more time calling his name and attempting to get him to behave. Of course when I tell his parents something they do not listen, so why it would be any different with him. Anyway, we have an amazing group of boys, who truly have FUN!

Danny and his team won. It was a great game and all of the boys seemed to be mark on. They have a boy on their team who has never played, and he did amazing!

Well, I know that this is short, but what can I say I am concerned about the weather. The picture is of one of our Hibiscus bushes. Amazing flowers that bloomed on Tuesday!

I prayed for all of you last night, as I do every night. Hopefully I will have power and be on top of the blog tonight!

A Day with Danny

Today was Easter Monday so Danny was out of school, John Michael had school and Brandon had work. Today started with Brandon headed off to work and me having a few minutes of quite, because the boys' got to sleep late. Not too late, but later than 6:30, in fact an extra hour.

We took John Michael to school and then went and ran a few errands that I had to do. Then we came home and Danny helped me scrapbook some. Trying to get these caught up can be slightly overwhelming so he had fun cutting and even glued some for me. He got some gift cards from the Easter Bunny also known as EB. Needless to say spending them was a top priority so we headed to Target so he could use his card there and I could get some coat hangers. Then to Michael's where again he used his card and I ended up getting a scrapbook for these little notes that I want to keep but do not really fit in with my other books. Anyway they had some 12x12 books on sale for 4.99. A deal I could not pass up, especially when they will work perfect for these! I might go and get another, but we will have to see.

We went to lunch, which was nice because it has been a while since the two of us have had lunch together. It is nice to have some one on one time with my boys. While talking he told me that his teacher used to teach at St. Barnabas, which is cool since that is where I went.

We headed out to get John Michael and then came home. They played since there was no homework. Tomorrow will be a different story as we will have to rush home, get homework done and get to the ballpark. We had the left over chicken and dumplings for dinner. I am hoping that I can stall until winter on making them again, but they are Danny's favorite so it is doubtful. When Brandon got home we went to CVS and Walgreens so that John Michael could start spending his cards and Danny could spend his last 2.

Now I will say John Michael wiped out the CVS card and has about .75 left at Walgreens. He does still have $10 at both Target and Michael's since he was not with us. Danny was much more careful, he has money left on all 4 cards. The funny thing is had it been my money he would have had it spent and more. If only he knew. Of course since I did not have money to help him get more than what was on his card he had to keep it under $10. I was really proud of him.

The picture is of the new blooms on the knockout rose bush that John Michael picked out to add to the Rose Garden we are making in the back yard.

Well, I am off hopefully to bed soon. I have to get these boys to bed and get ready for the day tomorrow. I have a lot to get done around the house and am confident that I can get it done, as long as I stay focused. If only they still put ephedrine in Stackers...I loved those in college.

Before I go to bed I will be praying for all of my family and friends. I know that prayer is our way of communicating with God and I also know that it is the one thing that I can do for everyone, whether asked to or not.

Easter

Today started early, but it was GREAT!

The boys were so excited when they woke up and the Easter bunny had been here. Typically he comes while we are at Mass, but since we were going out to eat instead of coming home to cook he came last night while we were sleeping. The boys were so excited about what he wrote on the eggs that they dyed, all of the candy that he brought, he also brought a few small toys and $10 gift cards. They were excited which makes my heart VERY happy!

We went to Mass at 8:30 we actually got there a little before 8 so I could get some pictures of my boys. I always love the Easter Mass. I hope to take the boys' to the Vigil Mass one year, but right now I am just concentrating on John Michael sitting still for an hour and that one is usually about 2.

We went to the church's Easter Egg Hunt right after Mass, and a quick change of clothes. The hunt was on the playground and since Danny was in his suit that he is wearing for his First Communion we did a quick clothing change.

We went to lunch at Logan's, and I have to say it was great. There was no fuss over cooking, cleaning, anything. I think we might have a new Easter tradition. We were there about 11:15 and there was no waiting, it was seriously great. Well the service today left something to be desired, but other than that it was great.

We came home so that we could all change clothes so we could work outside. Brandon finished up the front flower beds. He got the plants that we have been collecting for 2 months now planted. It looks great. Of course there is a lot to do, but it will take some time, and money. We figure a little each year and we will get there, and appreciate the new additions each year. Plus it is about the only way that we can even pretend to afford it. I also cleaned out the van, I still need to detail it, but other than baseball stuff there is nothing in there. We also had another egg hunt at the house! It was in the backyard, but a lot of fun.

Danny is out of school tomorrow for Holy Monday, but John Michael has school so I think that he and I will vacuum and wash it and detail it. Well, we will see. Of course he is ready to spend these gift cards. I also think that we will work in the den. I have so much to do and still 2 sets of pictures to finish editing, not to mention the personal ones. I will get there though. We will just have to see how tomorrow goes to decide what we will do.

Well, I am off to bed! Before I go I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. Please remember a friend of mine whose husband lost his mom this morning. While it was expected it is never easy when it comes. Thanks everyone. I hope that you all had a blessed Easter!

Holy Saturday

Wow! What a Saturday is seriously all that I can say, it was definitely a productive one though, which always makes me feel better.

It started this morning. Brandon immediately got to work outside in an attempt to beat the heat. He is doing an amazing job with the flower beds. I am so proud of them and I appreciate all of the work that he has done and is still doing so much.

Danny had a game today at 11:30, which meant that we were at the park at 10:30. It was a great game, a bit of a nail biter, but they won. The final score was 17-16, if I remember right. John Michael was off today so it was just a one game Saturday, I have to admit I felt a little lost.

We came home and I got to work in the kitchen and the boys got to work in their rooms. That was an all day ordeal just because they would not do it. Seriously it was about an hour max worth of work, but it took about 5 hours. They did it though. I feel much better, now to get to the rest of the house. I am cleaning out and up again. I swear it never ends. I also have been catching up on laundry. There were 2 loads alone in Danny's room. A lot I think was clean and just on his closet floor for some reason, but none the less it was 2 extra loads. I wanted to get the big winter coats done, but so far that has not happened. There is always tomorrow though.

We also dyed Easter Eggs. The boys had a blast, I am horrible about fogetting to do them and I was glad that I remembered this year. After seeing how much fun they had, I will definitely remember from now on!

Brandon got all of the edging in around the beds, the tulip shrub planted and has started on adding mulch to it all. He plans on finishing tomorrow too. He also has several things other things to get planted. I think the goal is tomorrow for it all.

Tomorrow might be Easter but after Mass, and an Easter Egg Hunt and lunch we will be against a deadline at the house and we will all be pitching in. It should be a great family day though so I am not complaining. Any day that we get to spend together is a great one and holidays are extra special.

Well, I have to put up the spaghetti sauce and then the Easter Bunny will come. In the past years he comes while we are at Mass, but we always come home and are cooking for lunch/dinner here. Since we are going out it will be later so we figure he will come tonight. Before I go to bed I will be remembering all of you in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that you have a very blessed Easter.

Good Friday

Today was Good Friday. It is a day that we stop and should remember that Jesus died for our sins.

Today was a busy day for all of us but it was a great day spent with my family and ended on a positive note being spent with my best friend.

John Michael and I got up this morning to run some errands. We went to find me something to wear for Easter and for Danny's First Communion. I really figured it would be a bust but it was definitely a success and I am glad I went on and went as I actually found a few outfits. Which is always good news for my closet especially. We also had to go to the grocery store. Danny wanted Chicken and Dumplins and tomorrow John Michael wants spaghetti and Brandon wants homemade bread. I also needed a few things for the week. I am glad to have this done.

While we went one way, Brandon and Danny headed to Home Depot to rent a tiller. They tilled the front and back flower beds so that we can plant the things that we have gotten. We plan to add to the yard each year, but this year we have done a lot, basically getting them ready. I cannot wait to see the finished product. So far everything looks great. Brandon even dug up my favorite daffodils so that we can replant them. They are definitely my favorite flowers, I just wish that they would bloom more than one time. Oh well, I enjoy them while they are here.

We have several trees that we planted this fall and I have been amazed with the peaches that are being produced on one of them. Obviously the peach tree. I did not know that one so young would produce.

When the tilling was done we all went to Sam's to get some more of the weed stop covering stuff. We also got drinks and a few things that we needed.

We got home and ate dinner. The Chicken and Dumplins were yummy. I love them, but do not make them often and usually not at all unless it is winter, but they are Danny's favorites! Then Brandon went back to the yard and I started cleaning the kitchen.

My best friend Amy came over to scrapbook. I have overwhelmed myself with the back log that I have and the things that I have collected for them over the years. I am getting there though, it will all come together soon. I need to bring all of mine upstairs and make a list of what I have and what I need. Progress is being made though. I think that tonight we talked more than actually worked, but it was great. Just spending time together and letting our kids wear each other out! No matter what I have going on I hope that Amy knows I am always here for her! We have been friends since high school and no matter how much time goes by between us talking we always pick right back up. I am glad that we are getting better at spending time together though!

So I have to go by Jellybeans first thing in the morning and boil eggs for dying tomorrow afternoon. Then we have a ballgame. John Michael has an off day but Danny plays and then home for more housework and yardwork. It is going to be busy day, but will also be a productive one! I am looking forward to a family day!

Headed to bed now, well after I put up the leftover food. I will be praying for all of my friends and family as always before going to sleep. I hope that this Lenten season has been blessed for all of you.

Holy Thursday

Today was Holy Thursday and it was a busy day.

This morning of course we woke up late so were running around like some crazy people trying to get out the door and where we needed to be on time. Brandon was off so at least we were all going to the same places.

We made it to Danny's school with just a few minutes to spare. I was taking cupcakes to his class and while his teacher knew his friends did not so they were all quite excited to see me come in with cupcakes. I left them with Mrs. Hayes so that she could pass them out when she was ready for them to have them. I was glad that Danny came home and said that they were delicious! I love it when something works out and I always worry that it will not. He was actually supposed to be out today, but they were making up the Friday that the school lost power so he was out early at 12.

We headed to John Michael's school and made it with a few minutes to spare. He had a regular day so he was there till 2. I made cupcakes for his class too and he said that they were yummy. He was really glad that we had a few left over at the house. When we picked him up they were picking up liter for Earth Day, which I thought was great. Danny wanted to walk down and get him so I stayed at the top and watched and let the big brother have his fun. I felt so bad that I was unable to take pictures for the school this morning, but I had promised Brandon some help in the yard and I also had to be back to get Danny at 12. Hopefully they understand. I did let them know that even though my boys will not be there next year that if they needed pictures all they had to do was call. Hopefully they will, I love doing things for the schools and would love to do even more.

Well, tomorrow is Good Friday, and Earth Day and I am having a scrap night with Amy, which I am VERY excited about. I cannot wait. Today I was also able to get Danny's shoes swapped out so now we are ready for Easter and First Communion! A definite plus and a lot of deductions from the stress levels. We also went by one of the nurseries that is close to our house and we got a tulip tree, FINALLY! I am SO SO excited. We should be planting on Earth Day and if all goes as planned we will be!

Well, I am off to bed. I am pretty tired and tomorrow will be a busy one. I am excited about a three day weekend with my men. Before I go to bed I will be saying a prayer for all of my friends and family. The holidays never seem to be without loss, please remember my mom's friend who lost her brother, and my friend whose husband lost 2 aunts in your prayers as they get through the next few days.

What do 4K and Cub Scouts Have in Common?

EASTER EGG HUNTS!

So today started with some serious storms that had me leaving my house thirty minutes before hand, and still arriving at Danny's school at the same time. It would have been a great day to be lazy, but that was not an option, it is all good though! It was a GREAT day for me and my boys which is what matters the most!

John Michael's class had their Easter Egg hunt and an Easter picnic today. Of course it was all moved indoors, but they did not care and it was still a lot of fun. The only reason outside is always a little nicer is because they can run around, but of course they still made some track marks. They each got to find 12 eggs, of course some found more some less, but we rounded it all off and they all should have ended up with 12. YAY! We added their goodies to the little bags we made Monday and they should have all definitely been on a sugar high by this afternoon. I know John Michael could not wait to get in the car and get those eggs open. They also made the croissants with the marshmallows that help explain the story of Jesus in the tomb. It was really great, and John Michael could not wait to show Daddy and Danny and teach them so we made some at home tonight too!

We got Danny from school and rushed home to get done with homework, and then get ready for scouts, where we were having an Easter Egg hunt on the playground. The boys' went in for a few minutes so we could get the eggs hidden, but then they were able to go outside and RUN! They all had a blast! It is always nice when everyone can get outside for a few minutes. It was a little wet still, but at least not raining.

Well, now we are home and watching the weather yet again. It is funny when I was young I loved this and would watch and wait and was ready to chase storms one day. Then I became a mom and realized the importance of being weather aware. Which is what I will be tonight. I am also baking cupcakes for both classes. I was going to make icing but am going with the canned option so that they all get done and can have cupcakes for Easter.

Well, as soon as all of this is done I am off to bed. Right now I have 24 done so I am halfway there. I am also washing baseball uniforms so that they will be ready for tomorrow night. I will say a prayer for all of my friends and family before I go to bed. Please say a prayer for a friend of mine, her husband lost 2 of his aunt's this morning, both suddenly and unexpectedly. They are amazing people who have a very large place in my heart and seeing them hurting breaks my heart. I love you guys!

New Clothes and Baseball

No, I did not get new clothes, but it would be nice to have some in my closet. Oh well. Danny got his First Communion/Easter outfit, and let me just tell you my baby boy looks good in it! The first feat was finding one and the second was it fitting. SCORE! John Michael also got an Easter outfit. It is so cute and again it fit! TWO! They also got dress shoes. John Michael's fit, Danny's did not so I will be taking those back tomorrow and hoping that they have another pair that will work. He is at such a strange size! Now I still have to tell you I have no idea what Brandon and I will wear, but we will make something in our closets work.

Both boys had games tonight. John Michael's team lost, but the boys seemed to have a good time out there which is what matters. We are hoping to have a mandatory practice next Monday, but we will see if the fields are available. BTW, John Michael was catching and he actually seemed to do much better tonight. I guess he is following in his big brothers footsteps!

Danny's team won and it was an awesome game!

Well, we are home. Easter party with John Michael's class tomorrow so expect an update soon! I am headed to bed very soon. I am exhausted and these boys have to get to sleep or it is going to be a rough morning tomorrow. I will remember you all in my thoughts and prayers tonight. Please pray for one of my mom's best friends, and a woman who I love dearly, she lost her brother this morning. Thank you all!

Crafts and a Sick Baby

So today was craft day with John Michael's class. We made some really cute little tote bags for Easter. They are going to use them Wednesday for their Easter Egg Hunt. It is always so much fun when I am able to spend a little time with my boys in their classes. It is nice to see what they do and be a small part of it. I hope that they will carry these memories with them forever. I see parents who drop their kids off and they never seem to be much more involved than that and it breaks my heart for the child. We will never get these days back so I plan to be a part for as long as I can.

Danny ended up coming home early, they called while I was in class with John Michael and it never rang. I think being basically in a church basement has something to do with that. Fortunately they called Brandon and he went and got him. He is okay, not contagious anyway. His allergies are acting up and all of the drainage is triggering his asthma. Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day and he will be able to stay at school. I will write a note letting his teacher know that he needs to take it easy at Recess and PE.

Well, tomorrow is the First Communion suit and shoes extravaganza. We shall see how it all goes. Fingers crossed and prayers have been said!

Well, I am off to bed tonight. It is still not before 9, but I am making some headway on editing and on the teacher's gifts so it is all good. Oh yeah, I got the extra 2 weeks off from class! YAY! I will say a prayer for all of my family an friends. I hope that all of your spoken and unspoken requests are soon prayers of thanksgiving!

Running Around

So today was Sunday, which is never a day of rest. I am hoping that one day it will be, but the important thing is that it was a great day.

The boys both had practice from 3-5. I did not go so that I could get some errands done that I cannot do with the boys and do not know that I will have time to do this week. I am proud to announce that it was a success. It is all done! After visiting 6 stores, I can say now I can relax a little, well about that part anyway.

I do still have to find the boys something to wear for Easter. My plan is to find Danny a suit, I have a lead but the store is closed till Tuesday, thanks Tonya! Danny can wear this for Easter and his First Communion. For John Michael some plaid shorts and a nice shirt, or maybe even a sweater vest. We shall see what this week brings about while shopping. I also have to find them shoes. It will all happen though. This is going to be my goal for Tuesday after I drop them off at school. So expect an update then.

Brandon came home and said that only 5 boys showed up for John Michael's team practice and of course the one that Brandon really needed there was a no show. Of course I forget according to his parents he is an excellent ball player. Seriously...he is great at running across the field and fighting over the ball, but then he just stands there with it. That is what they were going to work on today. John Michael said that they got to run a little with Danny's team and he thought that was pretty cool. I think they had the same issue with a few no shows. Heck I know that my boys need practice and as long as we can be there we will be!

Anyway. We also went and got a Hibiscus plant for the front of the house, well 2, one for each corner. Hopefully we will get all of these new plants in the ground soon.

So I have changed our Easter plans. I think we are going to go out to lunch. I am just not in the mood for stressing over cooking, and entertaining. This way we can go to Mass, go out (and someone else cleans up), and then enjoy the day together. I did tell Brandon I would still bake a ham and he seemed happy because it means that we can work in the yard. If it is sunny that works for me, I love getting natural vitamin D.

So I am headed to bed. Tomorrow is craft day with John Michael's class so it will be a busy Monday. Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. I hope that this Easter week brings many blessings to you all.

Busy but Definitely Great Saturday

This morning Brandon and I each took a boy and started the day. We met up shortly before lunch and then the rest of the day was spent together.

Brandon took John Michael and they headed to the ballpark. Brandon had to be at the park for Danny's team pictures since he is an assistant coach, and then they went to breakfast and headed back to the park for John Michael's team pictures, where Brandon is the head coach.

Danny had his First Communion workshop this morning. He missed his team pictures, but it is all good his momma is a photographer so she will get one before the season is over. We also missed the first half of his game but we made it for the last two innings. He said that he really enjoyed the workshop and wanted to know if the wine would taste better when it was turned into the blood of Jesus. I had to be honest with him. He was not too thrilled about that but that was it. He said that he is excited about this Sacrament and cannot wait to make it. Three more weeks. Danny's team won their game, it was a great game from what I saw of it anyway. I am just so glad that they won and I know that they are too. They will practice tomorrow from 3-5.

John Michael's team had yet another loss. The boys are getting frustrated and it is getting to Brandon. They are getting better every game and most of them could care less if they win as long as they hit the ball or catch the ball. Hopefully we will win one soon. I know that they deserve it. They are doing great though and I am proud of all of them. By the way John Michael hit a double! We are hoping to have practice tomorrow for these guys too!

After the park we came home and got ready and went to the movies. We went to the Edge in Irondale. The last time I was there was with Brandon and we saw Titanic...that was a long time ago! We saw Hop tonight and it was so cute. Definitely not a disappointment. The theater looks great and we all had a great time!

Well, now we are all exhausted and headed to bed. We have only been home about 10 minutes. It was a great family day! Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. I also have a prayer request for my brother in law. He is going out of the country tomorrow for a few weeks and I am asking everyone to pray for his wife and three boys while he is gone and for his safety while away and for a safe return. Thanks everyone.

Stormy Friday

So today there is no progress report because I did nothing. I am not sure if I am getting sick or what, but I listened to my body and just relaxed most of the day. Needless to say I think I am going to e-mail the school about adding a week or 2 into my break. I think I could use it to say the very least.

Danny got out of school early today. They let out at 1:00 but I ended up checking him out about 12:30, things just seemed to be getting too bad too close and way too fast. It was also their picture day and he looked so handsome this morning. We had a nice day at home seriously doing nothing.

Before we went to get him though a stray storm came up and it hailed....hard. John Michael was amazed so pictured had to take place. He kept saying he did not know it would Snow in the Spring. I assured him it was not snowing and when it was over and covered our back deck we let him pick up a piece and see for himself that it was truly ice. He thought it was pretty neat and could not wait to tell Danny.

My brother in law is visiting his amazing woman in Tuscaloosa and so Brandon was keeping up with them. He said that there was damage a quarter mile from them on either side but other than no power they were okay.

Listening to the news and weather I know that there was at least 1 death in the state and several injuries, and know that my prayers are with all of these people. Also with those who had damage of any kind. I hope that everyone stays with the local news as they are still on and covering these storms.

I am off to bed. Before I go I will be praying for all of my family and friends. Also, I am praying for anyone affected by this storm including the dedicated meteorologists who have been on air all day. While I am sure people missed a show or whatever know that the thousands saved by these men and women are more important than any show ever could be. Stay safe and thank you for all that you do.

Progress Reports and Baseball

House Work Progress Report...Laundry is caught up. Of course I now have everything from today and since there was baseball to be played I feel like I am right back where I was. Started on Danny's room.

Photography Progress Report...Still working on Q and U wedding. I will get them all done sooner than later I hope. Keep an eye out they are so cute! Nothing like a wedding done with all 4K students!

So Danny also came home with his progress report, which means we are halfway through with the 4th quarter of school. Seriously I cannot believe it. He has all A's! Hopefully it will stay that way. He works hard and is really learning a lot. Holding on for the last few weeks of him being a second grader.

John Michael was so excited because 3 of their chicks at school hatched! Now to get ready for all of the Easter celebrations next week. Craft day and party day! Fun stuff and definitely good times!

Tonight we had a baseball game. John Michael played, we played at home against Pinson. I have to stay on the side of the dugout to help the dugout coach, and so that I can keep the book and take pictures. The most important thing is it keeps me away from one of the mom's who seriously has crawled my last nerve. As an adult I typically let things roll off my back, but she talks bad about my child, and that is a game I will not play! She does not even know my child! I am much better off being away from her! It was a great game. We ended up losing 5-4, but it was still a lot of fun. John Michael was so upset that he did not get to bat one last time that we ended up at the batting cages for a little bit.

Needless to say it has been a fun day and night and now I am READY for bed. I hope that everyone has sweet dreams! Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for everyone as always. I hope that the storms tomorrow hold off until everyone is home and safe!

Headed Toward Bears

Progress Report for the house... All but one load of laundry done! Bathrooms cleaned except for being swept and mopped and that is just because I want to do all floors at the same time. Living Room cleaned all bust vacuuming. I did not get to the scrapbook chaos but I will get there.

Progress Report for Photography...I was able to start editing the Q and U wedding pictures. Got all of the boys, prewedding anyway and started on the girls. YAY!

I am very happy to have completed so much today and I hope that tomorrow is just as productive. It is my deadline for deciding what to do about class, we shall see how the dice roll.

I had promised the boys a root beer after school. Actually I promised them I would have it when I picked them up. On my way to make my afternoon school pick up circle I stopped at the gas station and was so excited to find a 1 liter diet mountain dew! I love me some diet dew and was super pumped to have found these in the cooler might I add. I might have to get a stock pile going. Hmmm...A 1 liter and a cup of ball park ice would make a very happy momma!

John Michael had practice tonight but I could not be there. Danny's cub scouts also had a den meeting so I went with him and was the den leader tonight since that is typically Brandon's job. It was fun. We signed off 3 more pages and only have 2 to make it to Bear cubs, so that is definitely a plus! Tonight was game night, and we talked about cooperation. Next week is the pack meeting and we will be having an Easter Egg Hunt, it should be a lot of fun. I am pretty excited about that one! Then May is our last month as Wolf Cubs, we will be Bear Cubs. WOW! I seriously cannot believe that we have been scouting for 2 years, it just does not seem right.

Well, I am off to bed. I am really tired and it is going to be a busy day tomorrow. Hoping that we all get up on time maybe even a little early so the day can get off to the right start! Before I go to bed I will be saying a prayer for all of my friends and family. We all have so much going on, but it has been a nice reminder to myself that Mother Teresa accomplished all that she did in the same 24 hours that I have. I have been working hard on staying positive and this is one of those little thoughts that is definitely a big help!

Catching Up...

So I have one week off from class, that means one week to catch up on so much! I know that it will happen though, there is really no other option I am leaving open. I thought about calling to request an extra week. Hmmmm. We will see where I stand Thursday afternoon, and then I will make a decision. I wish I could take a break until baseball was over. Oh well, it is all good. One day I will be done.

So tomorrow's goals include laundry, the living room, the upstairs bathrooms, and the scrapbooking messes that I have. While I will not scrapbook, I am just going to try to make it organized chaos instead of just the chaos that it currently is. Progress report in tomorrow's blog. I am also hoping to catch up on editing pictures, both professional and personal. Today I was able to finish the April 1st wedding that I had the pleasure of helping shoot. Tomorrow I will be starting Q and U weddings, we will see how far I get. I know some teachers are waiting on them though. Again. Progress report tomorrow. I am excited about these though. Then I have product shots and a prom session to edit. Seriously hoping to get caught up this week. Of course the more I have to do the more business I am doing, which is a good thing, at least in my opinion! Com on you know you want some pictures?!?!

So Danny's baseball game was moved to 6 this afternoon, which was kind of nice. The boys played great and it was a great game! They did lose though. It was a great one though, and in fact if we could have scored more than 7 runs in an inning we would have won, instead we tied it up. Coach Cale is a great coach and is really helping these boys turn into very good baseball players. Thanks for all that you do coach! Danny has gotten better every game and that just makes a momma very proud!

Well now I am off to bed. Before I go to bed as always I will be saying a prayer for all of my friends and family. You are all such amazing people. If anyone wants to come see the boys play I know that it would mean a lot to them. I will have to get the schedule posted for you soon or just call me and I will get it for you. They love a cheering section, seriously who doesn't!

Lighting and Lightening

So it is becoming the norm around Birmingham, Monday means storms. From the looks of everything all is well outside, with the exception of Danny's basketball goal. The backboard broke in the wind. He is not going to be happy when he sees it. I am hoping that we can find another backboard for a reasonable price or that Brandon can get creative and fix it up. So definitely do not need any more financial issues.

Thank you all who prayed for my mom. Her tests came back and everything looks good for now. The doctor is going to check hr every 6 months. Our prayers were definitely answered, thank you all again.

So Brandon got me 2 light kits for my birthday, and I finally got them out of the box. Well, he helped. I am so excited and cannot wait to use them. They have the soft box or the umbrella options. I am so excited. Growing this business has truly been a blessing and with new equipment it means more growth potential.

I also got a corner curio cabinet. I have needed one for a while. I collect wine glasses and it is time to get them out and put them where they can be seen and maybe even used. Now I have somewhere for them. YAY! I will be working on getting them out of boxes this week. Brandon had a blast putting it together. Puzzle piece furniture as he referred to it, but he did a great job and I really like it more than I thought would.

I have put another class behind me. YAY! I have 7 days off as my next class does not start until next Tuesday, but that just means I have 7 days to get a lot done. I know that I can do it, it just means focus and energy. If anyone wants to donate to my home organization fund let me know. I am ready to know where it all is and get rid of it. When I see my BFF Amy I am sending her home with some serious baking items! They need to be used and she is amazing so I know that they will feel more welcomed there with her!

Well, I am off to bed. Before I go to sleep I will say a special prayer for all of my family and friends. I hope that everyone made it through the storms with no damage. Weather always has and probably always will amaze me. I know what it can do especially with winds like we had tonight.

More Yard Work Sunday

From the looks of things it appears that Sunday will be our yard work day. The boys' plants have been overtaking my kitchen so today Brandon built them a raised garden to plant in. He also fenced in the whole corner where it is so that they can plant flowers, and some of the more winding plants behind the fence but not in their garden. They were pretty excited as they started taking their plants from the little buckets to the big garden. I hope that they all make it! I want my boys' to enjoy gardening. I love to do it, but am just not talented so I watch. I try to convince everyone that I am supervising, but usually enjoying a good book and vitamin D.

It was a great day, and is going to end with a short blog. Mainly because I am tired and ready for bed. I have been working outside, editing pictures, trying to clean, and working on homework! It is just a typical day for momma! Oh well, I love my typical so it was nice!

Before I go to bed I will be saying a prayer for all of my friends and family. My mom is going to have 2 tests tomorrow to check a mass on her kidney. Please pray for great results! Thank you everyone!

Baseball and Date Night

We had an early start this morning. John Michael had a game at 9:30, which meant the team would be there at 9, which meant we needed to be there before and we made it! The game went great, they lost 6-8, but they had fun. John Michael finally caught the ball, which was a super exciting moment, he did not even care that it went straight to first base so the guy easily got him out. He just cared that he had a good time and hit the ball. YAY!

Danny had a game at 1:30, so batting cages at 12:30. This is something we are considering doing for our boys too. A little warm up time before game time. Anyway. They did amazing! Danny caught so he was happy, but tired when it was over. He is a good catcher, and will get better! I am so glad that he has found a position where he can grow. They won 11-13 (I think). I know they won, just not 100% on the score.

Anyway. I was glad for a Saturday game so I could get some good pictures, I could during the week, but I worry that the flash is something that would do harm so I have not gotten many. We might try for a few this week!

Now, the boys are at Nana's and Brandon and I have planned a date night for our anniversary. We were going to go out to eat and possibly movie, but now we have opted to order pizza and watch a movie at home. And enjoy a few adult beverages!

I hope that everyone has a great Saturday night, no matter what your plans are. I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. Baseball and Mass tomorrow so we will be up and out early but it will be a wonderful day just like today! With weather like we are having get out and enjoy it most definitely. I even worked on my tan some....well, my ballpark tan. Shorts, shortsleeves and YellowBox lines, just the way that I like it ;)