Orange Garnish

Today was pretty uneventful, I was not sure if we were headed to the lake tonight or tomorrow so once I had that question answered it was time to get some things done.

Homework, editing pictures, laundry, cleaning house, well those are routine. At least for the next 5 weeks, then I get a one week break from homework at least! It is definitely the small things that matter the most sometimes. I am trying to break up computer time so my children do not think I live on this thing. It will be a little easier to do when school starts. I can get most of my stuff done while they are in school and then the nights will be for the family.

John Michael has become fascinated with fruit and drinks. So today he asked if I could put an orange on his cup. At first I was confused, but then I was with him. Orange Kool-Aid, sliced oranges, all topped off with an orange garnish. He was a happy little man. He even shared his orange with Danny, which is rare.

Well, it has been another late one, but at least I am on time with the blog, well sort of it is after midnight. Anyway. I will see how it all works out tomorrow.

Good night everyone! I hope that you all have an amazing Friday! Know that my prayers are said for all of you each night. Find your blessings and count them each day...they truly are priceless and everywhere. Who would have known that today one of my joys was an orange!

Bed Time....WHAT?!?!

So tonight has been wild, let me rephrase the boys have been wild all day and it has continued on into tonight. I am trying to get a lot done. School is happening, I have pictures to edit, a house to clean, getting ready to go to the lake, working out some things on personal and professional levels. All of these things become harder when the boys want to hinder instead of help. Tomorrow they are getting up and going outside until the sun goes down. Then maybe they will be in bed at a decent hour. Sorry to use my blog to vent, but I needed to do so for a few minutes.

I love my boys and would never trade them or change anything about them. Some days though I have to pray for patience and today is one of those days. Especially since John Michael is still awake and seriously standing on his head on the couch. To show that this is fact that is the picture that I chose for today.

I am seriously thinking that sticking him in our bed is the only way that any of us will get any sleep. Prayers for you all tonight!

So I wrote this last night and blogger acted crazy and I could not post! Hopefully tonight it will behave!

It's Full

So I have been so excited about my curio cabinet. Now it is completely full. The problem is I have 2 more boxes of glasses that I know of for sure in the garage. What is a girl to do? I did not even get a glass like I normally do while we were at the beach because I have nowhere to put it. Tomorrow while cleaning out a little I am hoping to make some progress on my actual cabinets.

Right now Brandon and I are working on a few problems. Well, not really problems, but we want to make sure that whatever decision we make is the right one. Sometimes a brick on my head would be super nice. Well, as long as it contained all the answers that we were seeking.

With the dreary weather outside the boys and I did not do much at all today. I got some laundry done and the cabinet full, but really nothing spectacular. Tomorrow maybe. Danny did lose his sword, he was mad and threw it so I confiscated it. Needless to say he was not happy for a while.

Well, I am off to bed. I am glad to be caught up on my blog, this one at least. Know that you are all in my prayers and hopefully tomorrow will be more interesting to follow.

Bath and Body Works

So everyone has a weakness and Bath and Body Works is definitely mine. When they are having a sale as amazing as the yellow sale and I have a coupon I cannot say no. I did 2 things. I placed an order online, and then printed the coupon and went shopping in the store. I got a few things of shower gel and a lot of hand sanitizers and wallflowers. It is possible that some of these will end up as Christmas gifts, but even more possible that I will enjoy using them all.

We were supposed to go to a birthday party this afternoon but the boys were just not minding. Nothing I said was heard and I was not about to take them anywhere. Needless to say I felt bad, but we will send Krystal a card.

I have a lot going on with the business that I had to work on today and will continue to work on. I am ready to make an amazing living doing what I love.

Well, I managed to stay a day behind, but I hope to catch up tonight and be blogging in real time!

Sunday Swords

Well against our better judgement we let the boys buy swords when we left the beach. They had to use their own money and it was known that if they screw up with them then they are ours. These things will be the death of me. I did not think that they would buy them but they did.

I woke up sick this morning. Well, not really sick, but with serious sinus issues. Oh beach....how I miss thee! The thing is at the beach with the salt air and salt water I can breath so much better.

Brandon was going to the football registration with Clay, so that he could get preorders for the DVDs of the games. He arrived and there was nobody there. He called several people and hung around for an hour. No returned calls and nobody ever showed up. I wonder if they will have a football team. Surely they will not do registration this weekend it is a holiday weekend after all. We will see what happens, but without the sales he cannot go video. That is a lot of money and time on his behalf. Trussville is done with registration I think, and other than online Clay has not even started. The thing about their online registration is it is a joke. Just a paypal link. Really?! Not sure who is doing the web page but it is definitely not someone who knows what they are doing. A lot of flash too, which means not Mac friendly.

Brandon came home and we went and did some basic running around. We had to get the garage door opener from Chris, thank you again for feeding Charlie Brown and making sure our plants had water. We also had to go to the store, we had nothing in the house. Plus we knew that the diets were starting which meant we needed some things so we did not blow it on day one.

Well, I ended up a day behind, and I am hoping tonight I can get back on schedule!

Coming Home

Well the fact that we were coming home was inevitable, despite my best efforts to get at least one more day out of it. I tried, seriously until we were in the driveway. Oh well, I am hoping for another trip this fall. At least a weekend. Anything is better than nothing.

The trip home was relatively uneventful. We did a little shopping, first we had to cross the state line to get some lottery tickets. Hey you cannot win if you do not play. I seriously hope to win one day, preferably sooner than later. Of course everyone else who plays does too!

When we got to Jemison, we were met with some nice rain which continued until 280. It was seriously wild. It went from a light drizzle to a downpour that had us sitting still on 65. We also saw a great rainbow in Alabaster. Very pretty, not quite the one over the beach though. The traffic through the construction is bad enough without the added drama of the rain. I hope that one day they complete their work on 65 so that the people of Alabama and the people passing through can enjoy an easy time instead of a serious headache.

When we got home we decided to unload the suitcases and groceries, but leave the beach specific things in the van. We were all tired. Anyway, I was going through the mail and was greeted home by a sting from a black wasp. I want to go on record saying that it hurt like hell. I am glad it was me and not one of the boys, but still VERY painful.

I talked to my mom afer we got home and she said that my cousin who was still at the beach said that the Gulf State Park was on fire. We had just been there, I love that park. Where the bald eagles nest and so many cool flowers and birds can be seen. Anyway, when I was uploading my pictures I realized that I had a picture of the fire. This is taken on the bridge going over where LuLu's is.

Well, while coming home from the beach is something that breaks my heart a little, it also meant my own bed. Sorry I got behind on my blog, but the bed was definitely calling for me. I did remember all of you in my thoughts and prayers.

Family Picture Day ... and Rainbows!

Well, I have to admit my heart is slightly broken. Leaving the beach makes me so sad. With today being our last day here I was determined to make the best of it. This being said most of the day was spent sitting on the sand. Well, in my chair on the sand!

There were a lot of jellyfish today and the kids had a blast with their minnow nets catching them. Isabella and Danny ended up getting stung, but Windex seemed to do the trick. Windex with ammonia that is. Those kids ended up catching minnows, jelly fish, sea weed with some amazing little creatures in it, and sand! They had the best time. I was so glad to see them enjoying themselves and each other.

We decided to do our family pictures this afternoon. Well, anyone who has ever tried to take John Michael's picture knows that this is not an easy task. If he smiles he does not look at the camera and if he is looking at the camera there are no smiles on the face. It is never easy. I tried to explain to him that the quicker he does right the quicker that everyone gets done. No deal though.

We all gt ready and headed out to take pictures. My cousin Vicki was going to do our family pictures as soon as she was done with hers, and I was going to do the rest. I just cleverly forgot my tripod so there was noway to take my picture. Go figure. I started with the boys and noticed that the wind was picking up. There was a storm out over the ocean but the skies here were blue. Well we on and kept trying to get the boys to look and smile and the wind continued to get stronger. Within a few minutes it was wild. Tents from neighbors were flying, the sand was flying (and at a speed that it hurt), everything was coming off of the decks so we high tailed it in.

There ended up being a gorgeous rainbow over the Gulf. After a while there were two and we had a double rainbow, but it was so light it is hard to see in the pictures. Oh well, it was gorgeous and I am so glad that I was able to see it. This has been a crazy week for weather, but it did not interfere with our beach during the day so for that I am VERY thankful. We have had a tornado (water spout), lightening storm, actual storm, rainbows, wind storm, and most importantly gorgeous sun shine! An interesting combination.

Well, I am off to finish packing, and drinking my wine! Before I go to bed know that you will all be in my prayers! Please pray for a safe trip home for all of us who are here and heading back tomorrow. The funny thing is we will all leave at the same time headed to Birmingham, and we will all arrive at different times!

A Great Day to Be on The Beach

This morning it was a litle overcast, so Brandon decided to make a pretty big breakfast. It ended up being perfect because by the time we were done eating the sun was coming out.

We spent the day on the beach, which in my opinion is all you should do while on the beach! I honestly do not think I would ever get tired of waking up each morning to the beach. One day it will happen. But for now I am making the most out of our vacation. The boys had a blast catching minnows with nets, I was surprised that they were really doing it!

I came up start cooking dinner for everone. This is not just 5 people, this means 26 people. Tacos was what I chose to cook, it is easy and usually everyone enjoys it. So I did. I made regulr taco meat with hamburger meat, chicken (Fajita style), chicken and steak strips (Fajita style without the veggies), Southwestern corn, salsa, rotel (2 kinds), beans, and then a variety of other toppings, salsa, sour cream, guacamoli (sp?), and the list goes on. My mom made banana pudding and Aunt Rita made peach cobbler for desert. It was all so yummy, and everyone seemed to enjoy it. I have to say it is the way to go since there were almost no leftovers!!! I have to say I definitely think that along with everything else even food is better at th beach!

Well, after that we enjoyed a beautiful pink sunset on the bay. And then some time reading on the beach. I finished my third book and started my fourth. I am now working on James Patterson books. Love him!

Well, I did not blog last night because I was pretty tired and it seemed like a lot of work to get the computer out. It is out now so expect another post tonight!

Tornados At Bay...Seriously!

We woke up this morning and I was a little sad. The rain was coming down and the skies were rumbling. Fortunately it did not last long and we were on the beach!

The ocean was pretty rough again, with a serious pull, but it was great for boogie boarding. The boys had a blast. I am quite enjoying my time on the sand with my book, and in the ocean. I cannot wait for the day that I call the beach my home. It is where I truly feel at home. Anyway.

This afternoon I had a photo session on the beach. I so could do that everyday It was a lot of fun, and the family was wonderful. I cannot wait to get to work on the pictures. Stay tuned for a small sample on my other blog (which I need to catch up).

When I got back from the session Brandon came running in to tell me to get my camera and get outside. From our house you can see the bay and are on the beach. Talk about simply stunning. Anyway, I did as I was told and was amazed to see a tornado in the bay. This means it was a water spout and it did not come on land. I was hypnotised and had I had a few more minutes I would have driven to get closer to the bay. It was truly amazing to be so close yet at a safe distance away from this storm.

Not much later a storm did come up and while there was definitely nothing to worry about it was enough to have us inside for the night. I read to John Michael, played some games with Danny, and watch So You Think You Can Dance.

Well, tonight has definitely been a great one! I am definitely getting tired and will probably be in bed sooner than later. I will pray for all you. Know that whether the day is full of excitement or just a lazy day in the rain it can be as spectacular as you want it.

HUGE Sand Castles

So today was another gorgeous day on the beach. We spent most of the day on the sand and in the water, which makes me a VERY happy person.

The kids built a HUGE sand castle. They used the bucket that we have for the beach toys as the foundation. Of course they did not realize how heavy it would be so Brandon had to tump it over for them.

The hole and river that they have been working on since Sunday actually had some water in it. The tide came in pretty high and helped them make some serious progress.

The waves were pretty big, some of the biggest I have ever seen at Fort Morgan. This was ideal for some serious boogie boarding. The boys and this means even the big ones had fun playing with the boogie boards.

We decided to go out to eat. We went to the Shrimp Basket for some seafood, which is another plus for the beach. While you can eat seafood at several places at home it is NEVER as good as it is on the beach. Brandon had fried shrimp, fish, and stuffed crabs. I had grilled fish and shrimp. Danny had popcorn shrimp. John Michael had chicken fingers. He did not want Shrimp or fish. Silly boy!

After dinner we were going to the Trak to let the boys ride go carts, but it started lightening so they shut it down. This also meant Putt-putt was shut down. Go figure every year we try to go to do something like that the rain and storms roll in. What can you do though.

We decided to go for ice cream. We went to Scoops, which is really the best Ice cream EVER. Brandon and I had a sundae. Mine was pretty traditional, just minus nuts. Brandon's was with mint chocolate chip ice cream. Danny had a waffle cone with mint chocolate chip. John Michael had one of the double cones and got mint chocolate chip and bubble gum, what he really had was a HUGE mess.

Well, we got home later than I thought and I was exhausted so I did not blog, but I am caught up now. I hope that everyone made a memory!

Waterproof Camera was in Full Use Today

The boys and I were up at 7:30 again this morning. This is a good thing as it means that I had my coffee before 8! I was also watching the waves before 8. When these two things are put together it was some serious bliss!

The waterproof camera, which I got out yesterday and it died after about 10 minutes, was fully charged and in high demand today. I love my professional camera. I use it non stop at the beach but having it all day by the water makes me nervous, this camera is the perfect solution. We went and got a new floaty strap for it yesterday since mine was nowhere to be found. This was a great added bonus, as I do not have to worry about dropping it either.

So there are these huge shrimping like boats out and they just run back and fourth. Last year these were used for the oil. Well they have not stopped since we have been here and I am thinking they are there to keep the oil from reaching the coastline. I am not 100% but that would be my guess since I have never known them to shrimp right there. When Brandon and I go to Tacky Jacks we will have to see what we can find out since that is where the fishermen are always. I am seriously wanting some seafood so I hope that we go sooner than later.

The boogie boards were used all day today, from 8:30 (that's about when we got down there) until 5. It was great. The kids are also working on a little pool reserve, but they are trying to get the main hole deeper and the river dredged out. They are cracking me up with their imaginations. Danny and Michael played baseball while Isabella and John Michael made baseballs with sand and then threw them down the beach. It has been so rewarding watching all of these kids have such a good time together.

Brandon shocked me today. He is always under the tent and he told me to turn around, I am always in front of the tent in the sun. When I did he had backed up and was in the sun. While he was not fully comited his feet were still in the shade I was amazed. I did not know that he had it in him.

Tonight's dinner was some seriously delicious veggies. We had corn, peas, potatoes, okra, onion, tomatoes, and even some BBQ. It was delicious. The kids continued to play after dinner. We got John Michael in about 8 for shower. Danny and Michael watched Kicking and Screaming. Danny is actually headed to bed right now. Momma is not long behind him. I am ready to get up in the morning and spend another day on the beach.

Know that tonight you are all in my prayers! Even if you are not on vacation know that everyday can be full of new adventures and so many blessings. Peace Out!

Happy Father's Day

Brandon had it made, Father's Day at the beach! Definitely a great day. The boys were up at 7:30 this morning. We did not even get in bed until 3. They were ready to hit the sand...so was their momma so it was all good. I cooked breakfast and after they ate I got us ready and we ventured to the sand!

It was rough today in the water, but it was a lot of fun. The boys had a blast on their boogy boards, snorkeling, and just watching the water. We had a school of dolphins swimming about 30 feet from us while we were in the water. Of course it was after the waterproof camera had died and I was in the water and it I knew I could never get to the house, get the big camera and them still be there. So we enjoyed them. The boys thought it was great to be so close to them. I really hope that they come back tomorrow.

We were doing dinner tonight. For those who do not know we are down here with family, and there are several families so we all take a night and do dinner for everyone. It works out great and saves a lot of money. Anyway. Mom needed some things from the store and also the chicken from KFC. Since it was Father's Day and Brandon has really been wanting some new sunglasses, and conveniently forgot his for this trip we offered to go.

We went to shades in Orange Beach and Brandon and I both got a pair of Costa's. I LOVE mine! I was not going to get a pair but when I saw them and tried them on I was hooked. Brandon has wanted a pair for several years and since we both had a few jobs right before vacation we splurged a little on ourselves. Something that we never do.

We bought all of the chicken that KFC had cooked, so if you went to the Foley KFC and had to wait while they cooked some more chicken. Well I am sorry. I never knew that it was possible, or that it would be me who did it, but we did! We had some left over, which works we will have some lunch options for the week.

Father's Day is such a special day for all of the great Father's out there. I missed my dad a lot today, I would have loved to have him here with us, or even just have a number to call to talk to him. Sometimes I truly feel him with me and when I am on the beach looking out at the magnificence that can only be a creation of God I know that he is close to me. He loved the beach, which is probably part of the reason I always have. I know that he is with our Heavenly Father and I am sure there is quite the Father's Day celebration there, but sometimes the selfish part of me wants to wish him back. I love you and miss you everyday daddy!

Brandon is an amazing husband and father, he is more than a father he is a Daddy! His boys look up to him and want to be like him. In so many ways they already are, which makes me one proud momma!

Well, I am off to bed. Four hours of sleep has caught up with me. I plan to be on the beach early in the morning so bed it is for me. Know that you are all in my prayers tonight. To all of the dads out there, you are the cornerstone of families. God is the foundation. Know that you are special everyday not just today, and know that all of us mom's appreciate and love you all for what you do.

Toes in the Sand

Alarm set...check

Packed...check

Van Loaded ... Check

Guess where we were headed!!! The beach! The countdown is over and the time arrived and we are here. We got on the road about 6:30 this afternoon. It was a pretty easy ride, had to stop a few times, but overall a great trip to Fort Morgan.

We are here and I have unpacked it all and am ready to sit back and enjoy the rest of the week. Hopefully I will have a few sessions this week, but we will see. I also have to figure out what we will do for our annual familiy pictures. I am thinking multi-colors, or maybe black, or maybe the classic white. Who knows. We shall see what creative nerve is hit.

I had a wedding to do this afternoon and it was beauiful. The bride was gorgeous! I cannot wait to start working on the pictures. Congratulations to Catherine and Ken, you will have a wonderful life. I hope that everyone can say a prayer for their happiness when they read this.

Well, I am off to bed. The sooner I get there the sooner the sun comes up and I can enjoy the beach. Know that you are all in my prayers. I know that it is short tonight, but pooped does not even describe it tonight! Peace out till tomorrow folks.

VBS Day 5

Vacation Bible School was great today. The boys got to dress out of this world. Danny did not think any of his clothes would work so he just wore black and green. I am going to have to get some face paint just to have on hand at all times. John Michael however took sheer advantage of the circumstances and wore his Buzz Lightyear costume. That costume has gotten more wear than any other that has ever been used by one person. Heck even multiple people. They had a blast today and all week. Thanks to everyone at St. Francis who really did an amazing job! You guys really are out of this world! Thanks for all you do!

As we were leaving the bottom fell out! Seriously it was wild. When we finally left it had slacked off a little...and I say a little it was just a down pour at this time. Several parts of Irondale were flooded.

Then we ran errands as always, but with a little more rush since we had so much to do to get ready for the beach. I am so excited and so are the boys. In fact they asked me about 7 how they could get tomorrow here sooner, I told them to go to sleep. I was seriously kidding, but by 7:30 they were out.

Brandon and I finished packing and have everything ready to be loaded up tomorrow. We thought about doing it tonight, but there are a few things we cannot pack till tomorrow so this way it all goes in one time. And it will go in right. I cannot wait to put my feet in the sand!!!

Well, I am off to bed now. Time to pack up the computer! I will remember you all in my prayers tonight. Also, thanks for the prayers for B, she did great Thursday! Now praying for safe travels and some amazing weather!

VBS Day 4

The boys again had a blast at VBS. I did not take my camera because my plan was to drop them off and go to Benchmark to get the recalls done. Anyway, I did not want my camera in the van while they were working and I did not want to worry about it with me either so the logical choice was to leave it at home.

So I get to Benchmark and the super kind gentlemen working the desk tells me I cannot bring my car without an appointment. Now I have NEVER had a good experience here but I have never had an appointment. I did call last week and they said just bring it up whenever they would get them fixed and would do it in about an hour. So I ask the gentleman what about the 10 mechanics chilling with their fingers up their noses and the two empty bays that I can see so who knows what I couldn't. He proceeds to tell me that they are working. See a recall repair means no extra money for them...and boy do they know how to work that system. Needless to say no matter what I said he did not seem to care and so I left with the knowledge that these people and this company are surely crap. He did tell me if I would let them run the diagnostic test for $90 then they could probably squeeze me in. Basically, if I would give them money they would work. Recalls are not my problem and I WILL NOT pay for them. Anyway, letter to Dodge will be finalized soon.

After VBS I went to get my hair done, I brought the boys, which was entertaining. Two hours of calm and control I though might happen but as soon as they learned momma couldn't just jump up and get them they took advantage of the situation. I feel so much better now with my hair done. Thank you Mrs. Myra you are a lifesaver. I really did not want to go to the beach with my hair as lovely as it was. Don't get me wrong I was going just preferred to go with decent hair.

Well, we had a great night. I passed out and got some much needed sleep but now I am behind on everything. Needless to say I will catch up today there is no other option, but I was hoping for not having to rush! Oh well! Thursday was great and Friday will be better!

VBS Day 3

Today was the 3rd day of VBS at St. Francis. Again the boys had a blast. John Michael had the come aparts when it was time to leave because he had made Danny a picture and did not get to finish it. Once he was assured he was going to get to do it when we got home he was okay. Danny got his flying saucer that he made, and John Michael made a Darth Sixth Grader puppet. I loved all of the drawings that they did. These boys make my day everyday for so many reasons, but when they are excited about God and being Catholic my heart does kick it up a beat.

When we got home I had to work on editing. I am determined to be done with the pictures I have taken before Saturday. I know I can, I know I can, I know I can. If I say it enough I will believe it. I went and got some DVD labels so that I could complete the DVDs I have done. Now to get them all to their respectful owners. It will happen. I want to go on vacation and know that I am caught up. Well, except for everything done between Saturday and well the next Saturday! I am very excited though and I cannot wait.

Anyway, this afternoon I had a session in Calera for the 5 year old All Star team. They were a fun bunch of boys. There were some issues with their sign, but I was sure Photoshop would be my friend. Since they needed a quick turn around, well, Photoshop was not in aggreance with me tonight. It was fun though, and VERY hot. Brandon had to work late so I had the boys with me. They matched the dirt on the field when we left. Needless to say scrubbing the tub before we leave is going to be a lot of fun. I am trying to wait till Friday, but after their baths and showers I am not sure that will be possible. The baseball team was fun though and I hope that they like the pictures.

Well, I am off to bed. Before I go to bed know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Also, please say a prayer for my sister Brittany. She is having her tonsils out in the morning. She is 16 and a little nervous, more about after surgery than before. Thanks everyone.

VBS Day 2

Today was the second day of Vacation Bible School at St. Francis and again the boys had a blast. Danny says that it seems more like 30 minutes than 3 hours! This is a good thing, and I am so glad that they are having a good time.

Today we came home and I made tacos. Definitely one of my favorite dinners! It was yummy too. Now to clean it all up, which is not near as much fun. I have also emptied three boxes from when we moved of my wine glasses (and other glasses that I have collected). Of course that meant a lot of hand washing as they have accumulated some serious dust. Even though they were boxed up. Oh well. I am making progress and my curio cabinet is looking better and better now that it is getting something in it! I will take a picture when I am through. I think there are 3 more boxes in the garage.

After dinner we headed to the park in Leeds for a photo session with Josie. She is 9 months old now. WOW! That is about all that I can say. We had a blast and her pictures are great. I am going to start editing them now! My goal is to finish this week. We shall see how it all works out.

While the boys were at VBS I went and got my toes done. I was in dire need of a pedicure and myself and my feet feel so much better now. I am hoping to get a manicure Friday. Hair gets done Thursday! I should be good to go by the weekend.

I also started packing this afternoon. Not much but a little. Like bathing suits. I do not think we will need them before we leave. There is just no time. I wish that there was I could definitely use a good swim, plus it is pretty hot out there. Even this evening at the park. Humid is definitely the name of the game the weather is playing now.

Well, I am off to edit. I will say a prayer for all of you before I head to bed. I am also praying for some amazing beach weather while we are there next week. For tonight peace out!

VBS Day 1

Today was the first day of Vacation Bible School at St. Francis. Danny was so excited he was up at 6:30. When I told him it was okay to go back to sleep I did not mean for all of us to go back to sleep but we did. Needless to say Brandon was late, so he had to work late. We were not late but a little more rushed than what I was hoping for.

The boys had a great time. Danny was glad to see some friends from school and John Michael said that he met a lot of new friends. He also mentioned that he really liked the girls.

John Michael made a Clay alien, which was really cute and a rocket. Danny got a pencil and played some games. They both had fun which made me happy.

While they were there I went to try to get a few things for the beach. I am trying to figure out what we will do our pictures in, I want something different. So far no luck. I will keep trying though. Stay tuned and please feel free to share all ideas with me, I am open to suggestions.

When Brandon got home we went to get beach chairs. We have used just the bag chairs for several years and I really wanted a beach chair! I am glad to report that we each have one. I wanted to stay in mine until I was actually in the sand, but there is a lot to do this week.

Well, I am off to bed. A little later than I wanted, but that is life. I will remember you all in my prayers tonight!

Go Barons!

Today we had our end of the season baseball party with Clay Recreation. It was at Region's Park. We spent the afternoon watching the Baron's play. It was a lot of fun and they won 4-1 which was even better. Danny caught a ball and was super pumped about that. Both boys got their trophies and were able to spend time with friends that they had made while playing ball. These friends can last a lifetime, I know I have some of those friends. We were able to spend time with some of the amazing people that we have come to know through baseball too.

Anyway the game was fun, the boys were great. Brandon and I had a good time. In fact I took John Michael to get a shaved ice and decided to get myself an adult slushie....mudslide to be exact and it was very good.

The boys cannot wait to go back and I cannot wait to take them back. Brandon is looking forward to it too, but hopes that it is a night game!

I really hope that the Baron's do not leave Region's Park! The City of Birmingham needs to learn that this is not a movie....just because you build it does not mean that they will come. Jefferson County has this same issue. Sad when reality is something that they do not have the ability to touch yet they were elected into office.

Brandon has been working on editing the Mass that he did Friday. I have been working on getting my pictures done. My personal ones were really behind, now I am up to today!

Well, the boys are exhausted so I am off to tuck them in. I do not plan on being very far behind them! I am glad to be caught up on my blog and my pictures, it takes a weight off especially with vacation coming up and there will be a lot of pictures, as always! Know that you are all in my prayers tonight. Whether you spent the day with the Barons, with family, with friends, or just by yourself enjoying some me time every second is truly precious! Enjoy them all!

Fruit By The Foot Fun

Or in the words of John Michael ... Fruit by the Fruit Fun.

When we went to Sam's we got the boys one of the boxes of gushers and Fruit by the Foot Roll ups. It is one box with them both mixed for those of you who do not go to Sam's. Anyway. I have not let them open then because the den is still not clean. I have a before and will have an after picture to share with all of you sooner than later. Anyway, tonight we were watching iParty with Victorious and I gave in to John Michael's pouty lip.

They are getting closer with the den so it was a reward. Of course they better not ask for anything else until the den is cleaned.

All About the Van

So today was a day that was all about the van. Getting ready for vacation means several things including an oil change, tire rotation, washing, even vent visors.

The boys are still working on the den as I am still working in the office. I did get pictures done of several of my props, which is nice because I was able to tell what I have as well as organize them some. I also have several picture frames that I will be giving away with session and I was able to get them gone through. Well some of them.

I have to figure out what we are going to do for our family beach picture, I am so excited. I want something fun and different this year.

I have also been working hard on finding the alphabet in hidden places for photography. We will see what I came up with today.

Anyway, Brandon went and did the videography for a Mass at the Cathedral tonight so hopefully that with the wedding I have coming up we will actually have a little spending money this year. We shall see.

Well, I am off to bed.I will remember you all in my prayers. I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend. Also to Sybil, I hope that today was a great day! Happy Birthday and we love you!

BTW....8 days until the beach !!!

Organizing

Well I am on schedule again, at least it seems that way. Today we had to deliver a disc so that the Hilldale 5K Graduation DVD could be finished up, then we took Brandon lunch because he forgot and Thursdays are his long days. Then we went to the Book Rack in Trussville. I was able to take several books and I also got several books. I am waiting on Jodi Picoulti to publish he next but for now I am reading a lot of Fern Michael's, Nora Roberts, and James Patterson. I am definitely a reading junkie. I am working on getting all of the Suzie Stackhouse books and then I will start reading that series. The boys also got a book. I am so glad that they enjoy reading. Then we came home and watched Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and then worked on the den and office. Well, they started working on the den and then they started playing. That is so frustrating, but I do not know how to break the habit. I am working on it though. Danny wants the Spiderman movies so I have told him when the den is done I will get them for him. We shall see if that is enough for him. I also started putting my wine glasses in my cabinet. I love it, now to get the rest of them in there. At least there are some. Hopefully that will be motivation. Anyway. Tomorrow is jammed and I am tired. I will say a prayer for all of you. Good night!

Cheeseburger with WHAT???

So today was a great day, well it was pretty good anyway.

We got up this morning and got ready to go to the dentist. The boys and I were all getting our teeth cleaned. It was John Michael's first trip to the dentist. Danny has some homework, he has to wiggle his lose tooth, but other than that got a great report. His 12 year molars are coming in, and since they should be in by December when we go back they are going to seal them. I think that this is great and I wish that someone would have done it to mine 20 years ago. (WOW that made me feel old) I got a good report, no problems and they will see me in 6 months for another cleaning. I have had some serious dental issues thanks to a horrible pediatric dentist. Anyway, this was great news for me. John Michael did great. He got a good report no problems, and he is also getting some molars in. He was a little scared of the vacuum at first and kept asking her not to use the straw, but when he finally let her he thought it was great. I was super proud of both my boys. They love the dentist, and the new one there, Dr. Marshall was great. Brandon had seen him and really liked him. I thought he was great too and so did the boys which is what is most important to me.

So we left and went to lunch with Brandon at the Shops of Grand River. It was the first time I went. Had it not been his lunch break I would have like to look around for a bit. I think we will go one day nest week after VBS. We will see how it all works out.

We got home and this is where it went from great to pretty good. It was time to clean the boys' rooms. After it was done they even felt better, but dang was I worn out! It better never look like that again is all I have to say. Tomorrow we have several errands to make happen and then we will head home to work in the den and the office. Brandon and I seriously need an office.

Brandon got a videography job for Friday night. It is a Mass at the Cathedral. I am super excited for him.

So the Cheeseburger. When we were at the lake for Memorial Day John Michael got a cheeseburger with peanut butter. Well that is what he wanted me to put on the burgers that Brandon grilled. I did and he ate it. Tonight we had burgers, again that Brandon grilled. Well he wanted his with cheese and Marshmallows. Again, he ate it. Strange ingredients but pretty funny too!

Well, I am off to bed. Prayers headed out for everyone!

All By Himself

So again, I fall a day behind, but today I rectify that, for good I hope! I have just been so tired at night. I think I am going to start getting to this earlier. We shall see.

So today we had to take John Michael to the doctor so that Dr. Lytle could recheck his ears. At his 5 year old check up there was fluid behind them. Well, there still is. Not from swimming, but from sinuses. Needless to say this will probably mean tubes again and possibly adenoids out. We shall see what happens. We are going to see Dr. Hill after we get back from the beach so watch for an update.

When it was time for lunch I was going to make sandwiches. Well, John Michael decided that he could do this all by himself. Needless to say it was another bittersweet moment in the life of being a mom. I am always so proud when they learn to do a little more without, but at the same time I am also always a little sad. I was so proud of him, he did need some help with the lid, but other than that he did great!

Well, I am off to write tonight's blog. Know that nobody was left out of my prayers last night!

Roses are in Bloom

So when I went out today to water the plants on the deck, the mint julep roses were in bloom. I got these for Brandon for our anniversary. He is trying to get our yard nice and in that we are planting a rose garden. These are a very pale green and pink rose and they are so pretty. They must have started to bloom while we were at the lake. I am just glad that they finally did. They are very pretty. The green was not quite what the ad promised, but still they are unique and pretty and I am glad that I got them.

I made spaghetti tonight and Amy, Terry, Sasha and Connor came to eat with us. The boys love having people over and they all seemed to have a good time. I also made homemade bread, which was super yummy. I love to cook, I just wish I had the time and the money to get really creative.

I had a final to take to finish up this class, my last until we get back from the beach.

Well, I did not blog but only because when I finished my final it was 2 and I was ready for bed. I did remember you all in my prayers.

Weekend is Over

Well today we woke up again to the amazing sights, smells, sounds, etc of the lake. It was great. Brandon cooked breakfast again. I think his desire to cook while we are there is another reason that I like it so much ;)

We spent the rest of the morning and into the afternoon swimming and soaking up some serious sun. Margie made us a great little flower bed around one of our trees. I love it! Thank you thank you thank you Margie. We had some hosta that the previous owners had in a pot (that was broken) and it has just been hanging out. She asked if we cared if she planted it. Of course we did not. Now to get some easy to maintain flowers and add them and we are well on our way to having a nice yard to go with our lake view.

Brandon came up and grilled hamburgers again. Again him and the cooking work miracles for my feelings of the lake. When we came up to eat we also started to get ready to leave. We gave the kids about an hour to play and I started on the last of the laundry, the washing of the dishes from lunch and just random picking up. Then before we left I cleaned all the counters, swept, vacuumed and mopped. Not to forget the toilets and sinks! I love coming back to a clean place. If only we were coming back soon, but it will probably be about three weekends. We have to get ready for the beach and then go, so I do not mind.

We hitched up the trailer and headed home. Then to unhitch, unload, eat dinner, showers, baths, bedtime!!! Now that everyone else is in bed I am headed there myself. I have a lot to get done this week and next week. I am ready though. The Vitamin D this weekend was very motivational! Before I head to bed I will say a prayer for you all. I have to admit I am looking forward to sleeping in my bed!

Waking Up to The lake

It is so peaceful to wake up and walk outside and see the lake. There is seriously something amazing about the sight and while there I always feel like I can take on anything. I am hoping to do several photo shoots this summer while we are at the lake. We will see if it all pans out. If anyone is interested let me know!

Anyway, we woke up and Brandon being the amazing person that he is cooked cinnamon rolls for breakfast. They were yummy!

Then we pretty much played outside, it was hot so there was a lot of swimming taking place. Just a week ago the water was still cold, not anymore, in fact we were combing the area looking for cool spots. It was like being at the lake in August. Oh well, the water allowed us not to feel like we were melting.

I went in at lunch time and cooked hot dogs for everyone. The kids ate and ate and then ate some more. After I cleaned up I made a yummy desert that my aunt made last weekend. She shared her recipe and it was a hit. Of course nobody liked having to wait until after dinner, but everyone did. I ended up doubling the recipe and it was perfect! Even had some left...maybe for later ;)

After some more serious swimming and laying out. I read a little, but not much, seriously too dang hot. Anyway. Brandon had to sleep off a headache and then he got up to cook dinner. Grilled pork chops and they were delicious. We had baked beans and mac and cheese to go with them. Definitely a yummy super, followed by the very delicious desert. It was a great night that I topped off with a glass of wine.

Again, I did not blog, but I did not forget about anyone in my prayers!

A weekend At the Lake

When Friday begins by getting up to go to the lake you know it is going to be a great weekend. This is our last one for a few since we are headed to the beach in 15 days! My heart is at the beach and I cannot wait until we are there full time, my second favorite place is definitely the lake!

So we got up there, took the trailer so that we could load up the grills. We did this as soon as we got there. One it allowed us to get it done, unhitch the trailer and then enjoy the weekend. We also were able to jump in the lake to cool down, some of those things were heavy as all get out, but we managed.

Then we went to the store to get groceries for the weekend. Before we left we got my mom's place ready for Margie and the kids who came and spent the weekend with us. Mom was supposed to come, but she ended up sick. The boys were so excited when we got home from the store and they saw Margie's car. It was great!

Well, after dinner and a lot of playing it was time for bed! If all Fridays could be like this that would be amazing! Maybe one day. Of course owning a house would be wonderful first. And that is how it will work. I keep praying for some answers and the sooner that they arrive the happier I will be.

Anyway, I have fallen behind on my blogging, but I did not fall behind on my prayers! I hope that you all had an amazing Friday.

Walkie Talkies

So the boys have really been into walkie talkies. Today they got a new set in the mail, they were so exited. Anyway, they were just a free set that I had registered for. Well, they ended up being pretty nice, and they had a blast with them. They like to play FBI with them. It is pretty funny to watch.

I got the kitchen done, except for the box to go to Amy. That is just because I have no boxes. I will get one next week though and finis that up. Then I can move on to the next room.

We were going to head up to the lake tonight, but Brandon ended up working later than what he was supposed to so we will leave in the morning. I am not complaining though, while it was not much it was a little overtime and that is always better than nothing. At least in my books.

I also got laundry completely caught up, so that was a definite plus. As long as I can keep it that way I will be a very happy person!

Well, I know that this is short but we have to be up early to head to the lake. I am super excited! I will say a prayer for you all before I go to bed! Enjoy the weekend!