May Comes to An End!

So I honestly cannot believe that May is over. Wow almost half the year is behind us. It has been an amazing five months though!

I should have taken a picture of my van since it was able to return home today. So while I have not gone far or much so far no noises, which makes me one happy person! We picked it up after Brandon got off work and then I went on a wedding consultation and then home, but like I said no noises! All they had to do was replace the rear brakes. The sad fact is that I have not had them that long and like I told Benchmark the noise started when they replaced them. Guess what the actual mechanic said that it was...the bushings (I think) in the rear brakes. So Benchmark you truly are full of a bunch of arrogant asses and just wait until the letter comes to your big guy and to Dodge's big guy. I will NEVER trust them for anything again, words of wisdom!

Anyway, so the boys were totally bored with each other today is all I can think of. They were fighting with everything from their hands to balloons. At least the balloons were less likely to cause harm. I am hoping tomorrow is better. I have already told then we are working in the house until Nana comes to get them. They are pretty excited about spending the night with her though.

I started cleaning out again today. I worked on the pantry some. It is always nice to know what is really up there. I plan on completely finishing the kitchen tomorrow. Watch out Amy I will have a box for you ;) If I can get that done tomorrow and the laundry I will be ready for the lake this weekend. Stay tuned for an update tomorrow.

Well, peace out everyone, I am off to bed! I hope that you all have had a great day and are looking forward to tomorrow. I will be saying a prayer for all of you tonight! Good Night and Sweet Dreams!

Memorial Day

I hope that everyone had a safe and happy Memorial Day. While so many people were getting up to enjoy the day I hope that you all stopped and said a little word of thanks for all of the men and women who have died for this country. I have said it before and I will say it again, always thank a soldier for what they do for us. The little things that we do everyday and take for granted are things that others have died to give to us. Thank you to all of the US military and to their families! My family and I appreciate all that you do.

Today we enjoyed a day on the lake. It was about as close to perfect. The weather was great, the kids had a blast, the company was great. Not only were we with family we were with friends. Terri, Steven and Alex came to visit us at the lake for the first time and minus the fish thinking Terri was a snack, and the bizarre bubbles I think that they all had a great time, I hope that they did anyway. Jessica, Nick, Kiersten, and Elliot also came to visit. This was not their first visit, but the first of the season. They all seemed to have a great time minus the tree appearing a little to close. I look forward to them all coming back and maybe Amy, Terry, Sasha, and Connor coming too. Brandon grilled some really good hamburgers and hotdogs. Thanks for those again baby! The kids seriously played till they were ready to pass out. We had a great time and we hope that they all did too! In fact Danny fell asleep before we left so getting him to the truck was fun and they were both asleep before the dirt met the pavement.

Well, I am off to bed to say that I am tired is an understatement. I have a lot to get done tomorrow and it starts early. I think we are headed back this weekend. I am super excited. I am also hoping to have a car again tomorrow, and that it is minus its many unique sounds. Before I go to bed I will be saying a prayer for all of you!

The unofficial summer kickoff day was a great one and I know that the rest of the summer will be too!

THE LAKE!!!!

So we are finally at the lake for more than a quick check on things visit. We slept later than we meant to this morning and missed Mass so we came straight on to the lake. I hated missing Mass, but I needed a little getaway, I think that we all did. The boys have worked so hard in school and Brandon has been working hard at work and we just needed a little rest and fun, and so here we are.

I have to admit there is something serene about the lake. Especially at night when everything has calmed down on the water. Even though I had schoolwork, I did it while watching the water. That makes everything better.

The downside to a lake place is that there is work that has to be done, cleaning, laundry, etc. It is all good though, like I said everything is better at the lake. Not quite as good as it is at the beach but second.

The boys got in some serious swim time, and I got some sun. Well I laid out, I am not sure how much if any sun I actually got. I have to get some color happening soon though. I even took a nap today, mainly because I had a blinding headache, but it went away.

The boys were able to do some fishing. I have to say that John Michael was as still as I have ever seen him for about fifteen minutes. While he was trying to catch his first fish ever, and with his Batman fishing rod Danny proceeded to catch three. The boy would drop a worm in the water and come up with a fish. John Michael finally asked Brandon to catch him a fish and just tell everyone he did it. Still o fish on the batman rod. Danny went back down to the pier and caught 2 more fish. The boy is a natural.

Well, everyone is in bed now and I am headed there myself. Looking forward to tomorrow. Friends, family and the water! YAY! I will say a prayer for you all tonight! I hope that Memorial Day is special for you all no matter how you spend it. Remember to thank those who fight for our freedoms everyday and say a prayer of thanks to those who have sacrificed it all for us. It is truly amazing to be an American. God Bless the USA and the men and women who fight to protect us daily. You are always in my prayers!

Saturday

Well today was just a Saturday. We all slept in a little, which was VERY nice. We did not have to be up to be anywhere. Then while the boys played Brandon and I watched a movie. We tried to get the boys to watch it too, but they were not interested. After lunch we got to work.

Brandon cut the front and back yard. He did not weedeat and edge, but it looks good anyway. I was just glad to have the grass and the weeds knocked down. Now I have to remember to water the plants this week so that all of his hard work from this Spring does not go to waste.

I did some laundry, dishes and editing of pictures. I finished up the wedding that I had been working on which was a huge relief. Especially since I have another coming up in a few weeks. I love weddings, there is so much about them that truly bring some magic into any day!

Tonight Amy, Terry and the kids came over. We had pizza and just hung out. We were going to scrapbook, but neither of us remembered to print the pictures that we need. Go figure. It was good just chatting and catching up though. We are contemplating a retreat in October. I think it would be a lot of fun. We are also talking about resuming Zumba since we both miss it. I am going to see what I can find out about times and locations and we will go from there. I hope that we can though, it was so much fun.

Well, it is late and I still have to get ready for the lake tomorrow. Up early for Mass then the Lake YAY! I am so excited, we did not get to go last year so we are ready to make it up this year!

Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for you all. I hope that Saturday was nice for you all.

Goodbye Second Grade

Well, Danny is officially a third grader. We finished out our second grade year with straight A's. Now for anyone in pubic school you should know that this is harder to achieve in private school. I am so proud of Danny, and I know that he is proud of himself.

We treated him to Chinese for lunch and then to Yogurt Mountain. I have to say I wish that I had never tried Yogurt Mountain. It is too good. John Michael seemed to like it more than Danny though. I think he was thinking more ice cream. It was seriously delicious.

We also went to the lake just to get things ready for this weekend. When we got there we went to turn on the water and there was none. Brandon went to the main shut off and found it locked. We high tailed it to the Water Company which is pretty small ad very close there. The lady told me that it was not locked. I assured her that it was. Anyway, the guy came and removed the lock. He continued to apologize. I was just glad that we found it today, since they will be closed until Tuesday and we are not planning on going until Sunday after Mass.

Mrs. Hayes gave Danny a few sweet mementos from the year that he opened when we got home tonight. He was so surprised and loved them all. He has second grade memorabilia all over his room. What a little guy. He even did a little Math this afternoon. He wants the overall school award next year so he plans to work at it all summer. I could not be prouder. He is a smart little guy.

John Michael is super excited about starting Kindergarten at St. Francis next year. It will be an amazing year, but for now I am looking forward to summer. I am ready to have some quality time with my boys and make some great memories! I am hoping that we have a wonderful summer. I am staying positive that we will. We are starting it off right, together, and that is what counts.

Well, I am off to bed. I will remember you all in my prayers. I hope that you all have a great summer. While it is not always easy to be home for the summer it is a blessing. The small things matter the most when you are young. With or without big vacations summer can be amazing!

To the Doctor...

The doctor is not for me, but for my van. I swear for a vehicle that I purchase brand new it has been a head ache. If I could afford payments I would trade it in tomorrow. I have complained to Dodge, like that has done a lot of good, but ask me if I will EVER buy another Dodge anything.

This afternoon we pulled into the garage after picking up Danny, before taking the van, and as we were lowering the doors the hail started to fall. It was wild for almost 5 minutes. The boys freaked out a little because last time there was hail there was also tornadoes, but I told them that one does not always mean the other.

Well, I know that this is short, but I might have just cut my vacation short, well, it will not start as early as I would prefer, but I am helping a bride out and that means the world. The beach will not leave, but she will only get married once. I still do not know if I have the job, but I am excited and hope that I do. Stay tuned for more details.

Before I go to bed I will remember each of you in my prayers! I hope that tomorrow is wonderful for all of you. I am a little emotional as it is Danny's last day of second grade. It is a BIG day to only be a half a day.

Remember When...

So today has been interesting. My nose still hurts and has started to itch like mad. Hopefully tomorrow it will even be better. I did at least feel human today and managed to make some progress in our office. John Michael seems to feel a little bit better, still not 100% but hopefully a good nights sleep will make all the difference.

So did you have those little colored pegs that you put on the plastic sleeve and then ironed to make shapes and what not. Well, the boys found one it is Spongebob and they decided to get it out today. It was so funny to watch them make a crabby patty with these colored pegs and then I ironed it for them. They were excited when it was done and could not believe it. It brought back a lot of fun memories for me too.

Danny came home from school, his last Wednesday by the way, and did his homework. No fighting, no arguing just did it and was done by 4. It was great, he even said so. Why did it take him to the last day to get it figured out? Hopefully he will remember it for 3rd grade. Heck hopefully he will remember it tomorrow.

I have worked on pictures on and off all day and still have a ton to do but I am getting there! Hopefully soon I will have even more done. We shall see.

Well, I am off to bed, I hope that you all have sweet dreams. I will say a prayer for each of you. Remembering back when things were simple seems so hard to do but then a silly activity can bring it all back. Memories are great and should be cherished, they are even better when you combine a good memorywith the present to make more!

Noses Know

Well, I did not know what a broken nose felt like, but I do now. After not sleeping last night, but tossing and turning I finally got up to see two black eyes. They are not bad, but definitely there. The throbbing is a lot of fun, but I will deal. Doctors are just not going to happen. I thought about it and talked to several people. Since it is not visibly crooked, and I can breathe the pain that would come from the doctors office is just not worth it to me.

Most of the day I was trying to stay focused and awake. I was just so tired, and still am. I am hoping that tomorrow is better. I have way too much to get done to feel this way.

After Brandon got home we got in the truck and headed to my mom's. John Michael started saying his tummy hurt and then he decided to throw up everywhere. We came home I brought him in and Danny and Brandon went to moms. I hated that we did not go, but honestly I did not feel like riding in the car. My head throbs from my nose and I am just yuck feeling. We will get by there this week though.

John Michael seems to be feeling better. After his bath he laid around while Brandon and Danny were gone. He has been and still is wild as he can be since they got home. In fact the picture is some of his silliness! Needless to say Brandon and Danny are asleep and I am up hoping that John Michael will be asleep soon. Nights like this I would normally put him in our bed, but he tosses so bad and with my nose that option just is not going to happen.

Danny started bringing home things from second grade. A few stories that he has done, the state stars, his Spanish folder, a few other things. It was kind of sad to know that it really is the end second grade. At least for a few years. I am sure that it will be here before I know it with John Michael.

Amy and I made a scrapbooking date for this weekend and I am super excited. The boys are just as excited because they said they are going to have a party in their room to celebrate summer. Works for me. This is scrapbooking month and it just seemed wrong not to actually scrapbook! Now to get a few pictures printed.

Well, I am off to bed, I hope! I will say a prayer for all of you before I go to sleep. I hope that you have a great night and that tomorrow is productive and full of amazing possibilities!

Mini Movie Night

So this morning we woke up late, but we had enough time to get to the school without being late. I felt bad though because Danny really wanted waffles this morning and that we did not have time to do. Aiming for that to happen tomorrow morning. We shall see.

Today was Danny's last Monday as a second grader. WOW! I know that I have said it before and I probably will say it several times this week. He got his yearbook today, it is great. They really do an amazing job putting it all together. Next year I guess it will be 2 so that each boy has one. Definitely worth it though. They each should be able to capture their memories. They got to have their friends and teacher's sign it this afternoon. Now it stays home.

After school it was time for homework. Only 2 things, so it did not take too long, but was still a fight. Then we went to meet one of the mom's from John Michael's baseball team so that I could take her baseball pictures. They were not able to make it to the last games so I needed to get them to her.

We came home and the boys wanted to watch their DVDs from school. Danny brought the DVD of his First Eucharist home and John Michael brought home the Q and U wedding DVD so we had a mini movie night. I cried when both of the events were live and I cried again first it was emotional and then physical pain.

I tickled Danny, which turned into Danny tickling me and john Michael and me tickling them. Well, it was fine at first then I told them it was time to chill but it was not that simple. It ended when John Michael's head came down on my nose. PAIN! That is the best that I can say. It is still killing me and this was hours ago. I have taken some meds and am hoping that it feels better tomorrow. Going to the doctor is not something I care to add to my to do list. It feels really weird on one side. We will see what tomorrow brings.

We finished watching the movies and then they went to sleep. Well, I am off to bed myself. I am hoping that the pain meds will kick in soon and let me get some sleep. I do not figure that the fact I can see my nose easily is a good thing. Praying it is better tomorrow.

Well, before I go to bed I will say a prayer for all of you.

Cookie Fun

So today started off slow. I feel horrible, my sinuses are just not adjusting well. Probably because a week ago it was freezing outside. Anyway, my whole face hurt. I did start to feel some better but really cannot wait to be 100% again. I have way too much to do.

The boys and I made cookies all day. They wanted to and I figured what's the harm. It gave us some time together and it was fun. Needless to say I am finishing the chocolate chip ones up now. We had to halt baking them so that I could use the oven for dinner. I did not get started back as early as I wanted so I am finishing them now.

The sugar cookies were the boys favorites, probably because I gave them icing and sprinkles and told them to go to town.

Well, I know that this is a short entry but it was a day that we spent just enjoying each other. I hope that all of you were able to do the same with you family today.

Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for all of you. Tomorrow starts Danny's last week as a second grader, which I cannot believe. I am looking forward to summer, but I cannot believe I almost have a third grader.

They are Up

So today was not as fun as I had hoped. Both boys ended up grounded due to some serious attitudes and in turn we missed a birthday party and Danny's Chess tournament. I really hated to do it, but I also knew if we did not stick to the punishments that it would be a long summer. The boys were both excellent so it must have worked.

We spent the day cleaning, working on the business stuff, doing Handwriting homework, and just being together. It was pretty nice.

Back in January when we were putting our Christmas stuff up it would not work. The closet where we always put it just would not hold it all. Brandon finally gave up and we stuck the boxes in the bathroom downstairs. The tornadoes that ripped through the state on April 27th had us pulling the boxes that were in there out so that we could get in. This closet is under our steps and we knew that it was the safest place to be. The tornado that damaged Tuscaloosa and so many other areas of the state came directly over our house, but it had lifted up and we were okay. Today Brandon decided to put what he could in the closet. It all fit. We figure that God knew that it would have taken us much longer to clean out this closet if it was all in there, and by not letting it fit we were able to get it emptied out and us in it very easily. While it was frustrating in January it all made sense. Now all of the Christmas stuff is where it belongs.

This simple Little act reminded me that there truly is a reason for everything and while we usually do not understand it right away the answers sometimes come later.

Well, I managed to get a day behind on my blog so there will be another one tonight! I hope that you all have had a great weekend so far. Enjoy the last few hours.

Sometimes Fridays Trump Mondays

So today started off great. Danny was excellent this morning. He got ready and everything without any fighting. We left early enough to stop and get breakfast and just enjoy the morning. He is my little man and it is rare to spend some quality time with him, even rarer for that time to be in the mornings. John Michael and Brandon stayed home in bed while I took him to school.

Anyway. Brandon, John Michael, and I were able to get a good bit done in the house today, still have a ways to go but progress was definitely made.

After school it was like a Monday lightening rod hit the house. Danny was not minding at all, refusing to do his homework, and pitching an all out fit. I do not know where those genes come from but they need to disappear. Needless to say he is grounded, which means no Chess tournament. John Michael is grounded which means no birthday party. Part of me really wants to cave, but the other part of me knows that he has to learn a lesson and I am concerned that this might be the best way. They have both got to realize that this behavior is NEVER ok. I am going to bed praying about what to do. I know that I do not want this to be my summer and I think that carrying through with the punishment will be best.

Well, the boys are in bed, and trust me that was no fun either. Now I am headed there. I am praying that this weekend improves otherwise the only time we will go out is when we go to Mass. Not that we can afford to go anywhere, but we can at least go outside, but until homework is done even that is not happening. Mainly because of the horrible fit that happened this afternoon.

I will pray for all of you. I hope that your weekend has started off on a lighter note than my own! I also hope that it continues to be a great one.

Beach countdown....29 days!

SFX Spirit Day

Today was an exciting day for Danny and I am sure all of the students at Saint Francis. Today was their Spirit Day. That meant spirit shirts and whatever shorts they wanted to wear, or pants. Danny being Danny chose his orange basketball shorts. He loves those things. Not my favorite, because they are so long, but he loves them and I know that they are comfortable.

He said that he had a great time. He came home with 2 face paintings. Thank you Mrs. Dunn. He had a baseball with the Auburn sign on one cheek and the New York Yankees sign on the other. Now I have told him that he has to wash it off while he is in the shower. He is there now and I hope that he does it. I really do not want to fight him to scrub his cheeks down but I will.

I started working some more in the house. I hope that this weekend we can get a lot knocked out. We have so much to do. It looks like we have not been home in months. Silly me, we have not been home in months.

I do not want to start the summer out with the house destroyed so I have asked for family assistance. We have a Birthday party, Chess Tournament, and Mass this weekend, but I think that is all so hopefully we can find some time to accomplish some other things too. Not to mention that the yard needs to be cut. Hinting to the hubbie now! It will all work out and I know that I am just ready for it to happen.

Working on ways to save money. Think I might finally have that part figured out a little. Heck even if I can never do as well as some anything is better than nothing. We will see how that all works out.

Well, I am headed off the computer. The goal for tonight is to get in bed early! Fingers crossed and will be praying! I will say a prayer for all of you before I go to sleep. I hope that you all have an amazing Friday.

BTW Countdown to the beach...30 days.

Bear Cub

So tonight the Cub Scouts graduated to their next level. Danny's group are now Bear Cubs as they have completed their advancements as Wolf Cubs. I cannot believe that another step is complete. WOW! I want to go to Cub Scout Day camp this summer but Danny is not too hip on the idea. Hopefully I can convince him but we shall see. Stay tuned for more on that.

We had a pot luck style dinner, which was very yummy. Well, I had a hot dog. There was so much food, but I was trying to get pictures of everyone and everything and keep up with the messes so that it was not a nightmare after everything was over. Fr. Bob came over and celebrated with us, which was very kind and something that we truly appreciate.

The second grade did the school Mass today and they did great. Danny did 4 of the prayers of the faithful. He loves to read at Mass. I am so proud of how much he has grown in all areas this year.

Well, I know that this is short but another one is coming tonight, I managed to get a day behind again!

Bittersweet Endings

Today was a great day and a little sad too. Definitely a bittersweet one.

It started this morning when I gathered the things that I needed to take John Michael to his last day of pre-school and his last day at Hilldale. I am so proud of how much he has grown and how amazing he truly is. I cannot believe that he is headed to Kindergarten though, it seems like only a few days ago I was dropping Danny off for his first day. Now Danny is in 2nd grade and my baby a kindergartner. WOW! Seeing Mrs. Hays this morning I knew that it would be a hard day, but I was determined to stay strong. We enjoyed a fun morning of field day type activities followed by popcorn and the snow cone truck. Then inside for hot dogs and chips and well then the goodbyes. I gave Mrs. Hays her gift from the class. This memory book is so much fun for me to do and it means a lot to me and to the teachers. Mrs. Hays also gives all of her students memory books, these are so heartfelt and meaningful. I am not sure that I can find enough words to describe how much they have meant to me through the years, but this one was even more special as it is my last. When John Michael and I came home I really looked at it and took the time to appreciate the work and care that she puts into them all.

We had to get Danny and then get homework completed before the second round began.

Danny got ready for his last baseball game of the season and John Michael got ready to go sing at the 5K Graduation at Hilldale. This helped to maintain my tears, I knew that we were going back at least once. Brandon took Danny and John Micheal and I headed to Hilldale for the last time as a parent and student. When we go back it will just be as visitors. I loved the fact that they all matched, even the teachers! It was such a special Graduation ceremony for the 5K and First Grade they are ready for you. The K4 classes sang great and this is definitely one proud momma! Then the goodbyes came. I had to say goodbye to people that have been such a huge part of my family. I consider these people more than teachers, they are friends, they are a part of who my children will become and for that I am and always will be bonded to them. I told them that I want to get together and I mean it! This was not just talk it was from my heart. I also told them I would come up and photograph for them anytime that they need it! Just give me the dates and I will add it to my calender. There are parents who I have known and grown close to and I will miss. We will have to get our kids together so that they can play and stay in touch and so that we can stay close. This I also mean from the bottom of my heart!

We left the school, and once I regained composure I dropped John Michael off at my mom's because he really wanted to spend the night and I headed to Danny's game.

Danny's team won their game and they played great, at least the 2 and a half innings I saw. I cannot believe that baseball is over. I truly enjoy spending time at the park and getting to know other people. We will work with our catching, hitting and running and maybe next year we will make all stars and the season will continue even longer.

Well, Brandon is home and we are going to get Danny in the bed and then head to bed ourselves. I am exhausted. Today was definitely one with so many reasons to celebrate and many tears fell. Before I go to bed I will remember each of you in my prayers. Please do not ever take that moment that you have for granted or the people who are in that moment. While there are many to be had these are the memories and the people that we keep in our hearts forever!

Just Another Manic Monday...

Come on sing with me! I know you want to.

So we were on our way to St. Francis this morning when Danny starts to have a horrible asthma attack. Of everything the baby got from me why was this the gene that was passed along. Anyway, I let him stay home because I know that it was miserable, plus it was a really bad one that ended in him throwing up. He laid around and is much better. Thanks to all his asthma meds. Come on weather stay warm and work with me!

John Michael went to school and had a great day. Today was his last full day of school. I did not realize how sad I was until he walked out with his bag full of all the end of the year stuff. The papers that they did not do and his towel, crayons, markers, etc.

He has been so funny tonight working on his "homework" as he has decided. I am just glad that he it finally at a place that he enjoys working hard.

Well, Danny is asleep and John Michael needs to be. While I know that this is short I also wanted to make certain that I made it back to being on schedule! YAY! I needed a definite positive. There is a lot that I plan to do this summer and getting organized is definitely one of them. This was a start!

I also have Mrs. Hayes (2nd grade) gift ready and I will send it to be printed tomorrow. I want to double check it tomorrow with fresh eyes!

Before I go to bed I will make sure to remember you all in my prayers. I will also be praying for the warmer temperatures to come on back. I am not looking forward to the ballpark with this chill in the air! Good night and sweet dreams to you all!

An Amazing Weekend Ends on a Note...

Well this weekend was amazing. It started with the Grandparent's Reception Friday afternoon with Danny and his class. Then onto Meme's graduation. Then Danny's First Communion which was so special for so many reasons. Then a baseball game with John Michael followed by a lunch at mom's to celebrate Danny's First Communion. Then Sunday started with Mass, and John Michael was actually well behaved. Something we are working hard on. I caught my blog back up. Then came Sunday evening.

I am stressed and backloaded with school work so I work on it while Brandon takes the boys outside to throw the ball. This is where the weekend started to end. Danny got hit in the head with the ball which left a lovely knot, but he was okay. This just broke my heart though. I do not like it when my boys get hurt. So back inside they came and while I got my postings done my paper not so much.

I decided that I probably needed to balance my checkbook once I realized that I had spent over $200 in the past 7 days on gas. Yes, you read that right. Needless to say this made my day really take a nose dive. Now I get to stress until Friday, when Brandon gets paid, and really even after that because there will be nothing to pay bills. I will be so so glad when money is not something that I have to stress over on a daily basis. Especially when it is this bad. There is so much I want to do with my family this summer and well I am assuming all of that can just be tossed aside. I am praying that Brandon and I are able to start making some money with our company as that will definitely help.

I am sorry to vent I do not like to use my blog for this especially when it is so personal, but I figure you all know everything else about me. While I know that money cannot buy happiness it sure as hell can make it easier to find!

Before we went to bed Danny lost a tooth and the tooth fairy came. I also managed to get behind in my blog. I will do this one and the one for today today and should be good to go!

First Eucharist

Now onto Saturday!!!

So this was a day that I knew was going to be a little bittersweet for me. Each time the boys overcome another milestone in their lives it is always joyous but is also a little sad as it serves as a reminder that they are truly growing up by leaps and bounds.

This morning, we got up and headed to Mass, but it was not any Mass it was for Danny's First Eucharist. What a special Mass. Mass did not start until 10, but pictures were before. Kristin, with Future Memories, was taking pictures so I paid for her to do them, so that I could enjoy the day. Of course I still took some, well, a lot. She did individual pictures by the tabernacle from 8:30-9:30. I also used this time to take some pictures of Danny and all of his friends. I am so used to seeing them in uniform or at Mass in regular clothes that they looked so grown up in their dresses and suits. At 9:30 Kristin grouped them all together for the group shot. There were 53 children receiving Jesus through Communion for the first time today. It was so special.

After their group picture they went to the Parish Hall and we waited for the Mass to begin. They came in with flowers to put in vases to go at Mary's feet. The children's choir was singing at the Mass and they sang the Hail Mary which was gorgeous. I thought it was going to be Ave Maria, which would have meant sobbing from me instead of just the slow stream of tears. Then they took their places and Mass began.

Danny did one of the prayers for the faithful, and he did great. He spoke loudly and clearly and I was so proud of him. Every child had a part and they all did so well. I was such a proud momma, as I think we all were.

When they started to come to the Alter to receive Communion for the first time the tears were back but they were happy tears still. There is something that is so powerful about the Eucharist even to me now and to watch my child and all of these children receive Our Lord for the first time was just amazing, powerful, and so special.

There was a reception after the Mass in the Parish Hall that was done by the First Grade and their parents. Thank you all for that. My mom also had dinner for Danny at her house, but we had a baseball break before that.

Overall it was a day that was full of Faith. Holy Communion is something that Danny will always receive now and he will continue to grow in his love for Jesus. I am so proud! I thank you all who came today and showed Danny that you are a part of his life forever in his journey of Faith. I also thank you all who prayed for him during this time. Even if you could not be with him today the prayers that you said for him and this journey have meant the world to us. Thank you to all of the teachers, priests, volunteers, and more who were a part of making this day so memorable. We love you all!

Grandparents are Special

So I am still behind...this is for Friday!

Friday was the Grandparents Reception at St. Francis for the second graders. This gives them a chance to show off their class and their work before the Sacrament of First Eucahrist. Danny had to settle for me since my mom was sick and Brandon's mom had her graduation, but he liked showing off everything. Danny's Aunt Rita was their, Isabella is in his class so she came to be there for her, and she let Danny spend time with her. Which was fine with him. He loves Rita, as we all do! It was so nice. Mrs. Hayes and the students have been working hard getting ready for this day and for their First Eucharist. You could tell too. The parents all did an amazing job putting the reception together, especially Ashley Hill and Tonya Balducci. You two are amazing! I even got several ideas for upcoming showers and parties I am having!

After cleanup was over we rushed home to get Brandon and John Michael and head to Hanceville for Meme's (Brandon's Mom) Graduation. It was great to be there for her. It was a very nice ceremony and one that was full of stories that had me in tears. The boys were pretty well behaved, which is a plus because it is not easy to sit and wait for 2 hours, but they did it and I was so proud.

After the ceremony we had to head home because we needed to get the boys ready for bed. First Eucharist is in the morning and I did not want a fight getting ready. We hated to miss going to dinner, but we needed to get home.

It was a great Friday!

Thursday Baseball

Well, I managed to get a day behind again on my blog. Sorry about that but I will catch up! Here is my yesterday.

It was John Michael's last Thursday at school. He was very excited because that meant the last treasure day and he got to eat his candy in class. He is such a funny boy.

Both boys had baseball games. John Michael's team played great, they did not win, but they played so well. The score was 15--6. I was so proud of them all. We had one little boy get hurt, and I hope he is okay. I know his little thumb is black and blue. I do not like it when they get hurt.

Danny's team won. The coach let the mom's coach which was a lot of fun. Me and one other mom switched coaching first. Cale still pitched! YAY! I was really proud of all the boys. Danny has become a wall out there at the cather's position and I am so proud of him.

Well, I know that this is short, but I am behind and so tired.

Bike and Trike

Today I was very emotional. It was John Michael's Bike and Trike Day at school. While to many this seems like just another day to me it was the last Bike and Trike at Hilldale. I am very sad, because I love Hilldale and the teachers and this has always been such a fun and exciting day for my boys. In fact Danny was so funny begging to stay home so he could go to Bike and Trike. Don't worry he went to school. Anyway, the more I think about everything that is coming to an end within the next week the more emotional I become. As you follow my blog you will see what I am talking about.

Anyway, it was rather warm today but it was a lot of fun! I was glad to be at the school taking pictures of everyone having a really good time. Even with broken pedals, flipped handle bars, scrapped hands and knees, these kids had a BLAST! John Michael was so tired when we got home. I kept him awake in the car playing with my phone, and once we got home, but it was a challenge. Needless to say we had dinner, he got a shower and was asleep!

Today was Danny's school Mass. I really wanted to go, but I could not miss this day with John Michael. This would have been one of those days that bilocation would be a great ability. Anyway. This was his last Mass ever without receiving Communion. WOW! Well, I know I have said it for over a week, but seriously this is where words are lost because of my emotions taking over.

Well, I am not long for bed! I am exhausted and tomorrow is going to be a busy one. I have not heard from Danny's teacher to find out if I am helping in her class after school, so we will see if that gets tacked on to the to do list. Well, I am off to bed. I will remember all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Again please pray for this Saturday's First Communion class as they make this Sacrament.

On A Roll

So this morning I started to feel a little more like myself. I woke up with energy and did not drag for half of the day. In fact before 6:30 I had gotten in a small workout, done a load of laundry, unloaded and reloaded and started the dishwasher, and hand washed the dishes that needed that extra care. I was actually feeling pretty good all day.

Thank you so much for hearing and answering my prayers. That is about all I can say. I have needed a turn around and I am hoping that this is it.

Baseball games were back on the calendar tonight and looks like they will be every night for the next few. Lots of laundry is what that means for momma. John Michael's team lost, but these boys get better every game. They are the youngest team in the league and they are truly doing their best. I am proud of them! I have been on teams that won them all, lost them all, and fell in the middle. I do not think that any one was more enjoyable than the others. SERIOUSLY!

I do have a few things to vent about so parents listen up! I am talking to you! There are several parents complaining about the lack of practice. There are several reasons that we have not practiced. 1. We have other responsibilities and are not paid to coach. 2. When we have held practices 4-6 kids of 12 show up. 3. The weather has not been the best and has yielded several possible practices. Now, if you think you can do better, please sign up and do so next year. Know that we have only a few boys who have ever played, of those half have only played rag ball, which if you did not know is not even a preparation for baseball. We also have 4, 4 year olds. We only have 3, 6 year olds. Here is the thing. You take an average 6 year old and put them against even the best 4 year old they will be outplayed.

Now I am done with that vent. Again, sorry, but I needed to get it out! If you would like to discuss this with me please do so...not on the bleachers. Get real and grow up, PLEASE!

Danny's team played amazing and they won. It was close for a while, too close for a while, but in the end they won! They all did really well. Congrats to all of the Yankees!

Well, I am exhausted. The boys have had their showers and baths, and are asleep. I am about to head that way myself. I will remember you all in my thoughts and prayers. Please remember Danny's class as they continue getting ready for their First Communion this coming Saturday! I cannot believe he is so big. Tomorrow he has Mass at school and it is the last Mass that he will ever attend without receiving Communion. WOW! That about sums up my emotions.

Golden Flake

Today was a great day! I burned a serious amount of gas driving back and forth, but it was so worth it.

I went with the second graders to Golden Flake today. The boys riding with me were excellent. We were a small enough group that we did not have to be divided and we were able to go through the tour as one group. This was a nice surprise. One of the dad's in the class made the video for Golden Flake, and he was there today. His daughter was so proud and it was so awesome to watch her brag on her daddy to her friends.

The tour was really neat. I am surprised that I have never been. I am glad to know where it is though, being so involved with scouts we are always looking for places to take them. It was so interesting to see how these chips are made. It is really cool that they are made right down the street.

The tour lets you see how the potato chips are made from potato to ready for grocery stores. It was awesome to see how they recycle so much and how they use what is waste for other things. Like the starch from the potatoes. We were also able to taste a chip right out of the fryer, and I will say that there is something special about a HOT Golden Flake Potato chip! Thank you Golden Flake for the tour today!

I was really glad to be able to go and spend this extra time with Danny man and his friends. Thank you SFX for always letting the parents be involved, it means so much.

Well, now back to the photography projects that I am working on. This is a busy week and tomorrow is going to be dedicated to house work. At least that is the plan. Before I go to bed I will pray for all of my family and friends. The second graders at SFX will be making their First Communion on Saturday and I ask that you all remember them in your prayers as they prepare for this sacrament!

Happy Mother's Day

I know that I am blessed because I am a mom! I love my boys and can honestly say that they have made me whole. When I was impatiently waiting for Danny to be born I had so many expectations about being a mom. I was also terrified. I admit that I am still terrified, there are so many times when I feel I do not measure up to what I should be as a wife and as a mom. The minute that Danny was born and I held him in my arms I knew right then that I was holding my heart. I never knew that it was possible until that minute. When he opened his eyes and looked at me I knew then that I would spend the rest of my life trying to be as amazing as he thought that I was. My experience was no different with John Michael. My heart grew even larger, my fears were more intense, and everyday these emotions and feelings continue to grow.

Brandon is my soul mate and my other half. He is who completes me. He is who gave me my children. He is the reason that our family is complete. While we all have our bad days, we grow together in our faith, in our love for each other, and in knowledge every day.

I love being a wife and a mom. I truly feel that these are two things that I am good at and I love to do them. They are the reasons that I get up and am determined that each day will be special (even when they are frustrating). They are the reason that I am always working on making myself better. There are so many things about be a mom that are special and personal and truly make me feel like I can do anything.

While today my children were not on their best behavior it was a day that we all spent together and for the most part it was fun. We went to Mass this morning and the boys presented flowers to our Blessed Mother Mary. Then after Children's Church they carried the donation basket up with the gifts. This made John Michael feel like such a big boy. I was so proud of them both. St. Francis gave all of us moms a carnation after Mass. I love carnations and truly appreciated this act. Today's Mass for me was also a little sad as it Danny's last Sunday Mass without receiving Communion. I cannot believe that my little boy has grown up so quickly.

After Mass it was home and a pretty normal routine. I am working on several photography projects and I did that instead of laundry, but I will have to double up tomorrow because of it. Oh well, I got a good bit accomplished.

Then we went to Homestead Hollow to take Brandon's mom some more hamburger meat and buns. It was so slow it was sad. I did get my cousin's baby something. I cannot wait for her baby shower (which I am having for her) and this was just a meant to have it thing. I love it and I hope that she does too!

Then it was home again for some more work. I do not think there is such thing as a day off, but it was a good day. Danny had gotten a coupon from Zaxby's and really wanted to take me there for dinner. It worked for me because it meant I did not have to cook. At least that much was a break. We went there and then came home again to get some more work done and showers and bed time.

While it has not been a slow day it has been a good one. Danny gave me a bracelet and John Michael have me a picture that they made and a card. I love them all. Anything from my boys means so much to me and this was no exception. A hug and kiss and a happy Mother's Day first thing this morning made my day!

Well, now I am off to bed. Tomorrow is going to be fun and busy! I cannot wait! I will say a prayer for all of my friends and family. For all of you who are moms I hope that today and everyday is full of blessings! There is a lot about being a mom that is hard, in fact more is hard than is easy, but it is all a blessing and all amazing!

Practice...

This morning was Danny's practice for his First Communion. I cannot believe that he is about to make his First Communion. It does not seem like it was that long ago that he was Baptised. He did not want me to stay for the practice because he wants me to be surprised by what he is doing. He is funny like that. He likes me being there and being involved but sometimes he just wants to surprise me.

While he was at practice Brandon and I took John Michael and got breakfast. Then we just hung out it in the parking lot. I finished my book, the new Jodi Picoultti (sp?), which was a great one. I love her books. She has such a unique writing style and I cannot wait for a new one. Right now I am caught up with hers. I have several other authors that I enjoy but if anyone has any recommendations I am an avid reader. Not picky on genre either!

We went to Pratt City today and saw the devastation. It was truly a sight that will never leave my eyes. It was heartbreaking and also promising. It is hard to explain. I have heard so many people talking about the war zones and that is a statement that probably describes it best. I cannot wait to help out. As I am sure you all know and please share with everyone I am doing all photography for these people across the state for free. When they are ready they can have any session or event that they need covered. I know that it will not replace what they have lost, but I do hope that it can help them start to rebuild. I will travel so all they have to do is call.

Tonight my boys took me to dinner. Brandon did not have to go to Homestead Hollow today, and is not sure about tomorrow, so we went out for Mother's Day tonight. We went to Munoz. I have to say that I love their margaritas. It was a great dinner. They then took me for doughnuts...BTW The Hot and Now Sign is always a guaranteed smile.

While we did not get to get everything done today that we wanted to we all had a great day. I hope that tomorrow is as good. We are planning on the 8:30 Mass and then we do not know. If Brandon does not have to go to Homestead Hollow we will hopefully make some progress where we did not today. If he does then hopefully the boys and myself can get something done. We shall see.

Well, I am off to bed. All of my friends and family are in my prayers. I hope that all of the Moms, Godmothers, Aunts, Grandmother's, etc. have an amazing Mother's Day tomorrow.

A Friday to Forget

So today is Friday, this is the obvious. Usually Friday is a good day, laid back and just fun. Today I thought was going to be great. This was my first mistake, I should know better than to predetermine my day.

Danny wanted to be at school at 7:20, he did not want to go in until closer to 7:40, but he wanted to make sure that he was there. The class that does the PodCast was going to do something special for the summer birthdays. This is how I knew it would be a good day. Well, we woke up a little late, not too bad, but it just meant we had to hurry to get out the door in time to get to the parking lot by 7:20. He fought the whole morning. This has gone on all week. I am not sure if he is overtired or what, but it is OLD!

Brandon got paid today so I was going to pay some bills, but seriously with he cost of gas our bills are getting harder and harder to pay. I am working as hard as I can to get things paid off, but seriously a break would be nice. So pay day was here and gone well before lunch time. Oh well, I am thankful that he has a job.

I picked up Danny and asked him about the birthday announcement. He filled me in and was super excited. Then I asked him about homework. I told him when we got home to go on and get it done. This lead to him yelling at me, and pitching a fit something I will not put up with. So he ende up grounded and will remain that way until his homework is done, and his room is clean. I am so tired of the same fights EVERY single day. He knows the rules, you would think he would just go with it. Maybe one day. Hopefully sooner than later.

Brandon is working Homestead Hollow with his mom. He enjoys cooking with Dale and spending time with his mom and I am glad that he was able to do this. Tomorrow and Sunday they will play by ear though mainl because it was so slow. I love him being home with us and we have a lot to do this weekend, but I hope that it picks up and that they need him as we could really use some extra money to get us through this rocky time. We shall see.

I am hoping that tomorrow is a better day. We have Danny's First Communion practice, and we also have a birthday party, the fishing rodeo and possibly Mass. I have not decided whether Saturday night or Sunday morning would be better. We shall see what tomorrow brings. I am hoping to get Danny's teachers present as ready as possible so that I can wrap it up and get it printed and shipped after next weekend. We will see.

Well, I am off to bed. Actually I have to fold all of the laundry that I have done today that I just piled on our bed so that we can go to bed. Oh well, it is all good. I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends tonight. I hope that you all have an amazing weekend!

Cinco de Mayo

So today is Cinco de Mayo. Just in case you did not know.

It has been a hectic day, and one where I feel I spent more time in circles than I did anything. I am working on editing a lot of pictures from different things for different people and different reasons. I am making a dent though. My house is a complete disaster and I just cannot stay focused long enough to get anything done. I will get there though, there is just a lot happening, and this weekend is not looking any calmer. You would think no baseball would mean something, but that would be a big nope. It will all get done though, one way or another. I am trying to enjoy each day and not stress...baby steps! I have to say that this blog and making sure that I take a picture each day is helping.

I have Mrs. Hays' gift ready and in hand. Now to get it wrapped. It looks great and I am very pleased. I hope that she is too. Now to finish up Danny's Mrs. Hayes' gift but that will be next weekend as that is when they make their First Communion. I have a few things that I have to find to make it happen but I know that it will all come together.

Danny had a ball game tonight, John Michael did not, which meant we did not have to be at the ballpark from 5 until 10. Just kidding I really do like it. Anyway, they played the Tigers again, and tonight they won. My Dannyman had an amazing game. He is the catcher, for those of you who do not know, and he caught 2....2....foul pop flies! He hit every time he got up to bat! I was so so proud of him, especially for those catches. He has been working so hard to catch a foul, and tonight it paid off. YAY! The picture is part of the celebration after the catch!

Anyway, we are home they have had showers and baths and are now in bed. Now I am off to bed. Danny wants to be at school early in the morning because they are going to be doing something with the summer birthdays and he is pretty pumped. He has to be there by 7:40 so he wants to be in the parking lot by 7:20. I will make it happen. Please know that my prayers always include you all. There are so many things that I talk to God about every night and not once do I leave all of you out. We all have needs and wants and whether you have asked for them or not prayers are the one thing that I can and do give to you all.