Goodbye to August?!

So it is really hard for me to believe that August is about to be a thing of the past. WOW! Time seriously is picking up. I know that there is still 24 hours in each day, but I really believe that the hands of the clocks spin a little faster. I have been working all year on being more positive and taking more time counting the many blessings of each day, and while that helps me appreciate each day, it does not help the days slow down.

This is the last Wednesday that the boys will go to school in regular uniforms, starting next week it will be their Mass uniforms, and I have to admit I am excited. I love my men in ties. Pictures will most definitely follow so watch for next week.

I feel better today. Still not 100% but I think as good as it will get until it rains. It is so dry! Praying for some serious rain sooner than later.

I did feel good enough to look around my house and let me tell you, I was not sick for a month, but my house looks like several storms came through....I think that they have names too...Danny, and John Michael! I cannot believe that in a few days they have seriously destroyed everything. Grrr....I am needing to find a happy place right now! I will get to work tomorrow on the house.

This morning I went grocery shopping at the Piggly Wiggly in Clay. For any of you who have not been the tent sale is so worth it. I spent $100 on about $300 worth of groceries! My freezer downstairs is full! This is something I am very excited about! I love grocery shopping when I can go alone and even more so when the sales are so great. If you are close to a Piggly Wiggly I would definitely take the time to stop by. Who does not like to save some money!

The boys had great days at school. Homework was done without drama or delay which makes me a very happy momma! We are also three for three with green smiley faces! YAY! I love the fact that they are loving school and are doing well. It makes like a lot easier. Tomorrow is Thursdy papers, so I will really know how they are doing! Iam sure I will be proud, I always am!

So I had Auburn season tickets for almost three days. My aunt buys them and I end up having to sell them, I would love to be able to buy them myself. If only she would give them to me. LOL! One can dream right?! I sold them today to a very nice man who was buying them for his daughter. I told him to get her to hollar WAR EAGLE for me! He said definitely and that he would too since he has season tickets. I cannot believe that football season is almost here. So ready to see my boys in orange and Blue!

Well, I am off to bed, still working on getting to feel 100%. Tomorrow I have a session for a vendor and I am super excited. Friday it is Alexa's newborn session! YAY! I need my girl baby fix!

Open House

Well today was definitely better than yesterday on the health meter. Thank goodness, another day and I would have been more apt to head to the doctor quite possibly the ER. I can handle a cold, what I cannot stand is my asthma feeling so out of control.

John Michael had soccer practice after school today. His coach has moved it up till 3:30, which works for me, it saves 30 minutes of me trying to kill time. He is loving it and I am glad. Of course Danny wants to play now, but we are going to wait until next year.

Tonight was my favorite Home and School meeting of the year. Well, I like them all but this one really is a lot of fun as we get to know more about our children's teachers and their schedules. John Michael had left me the sweetest poem in his room. Nothing like crying right off. Danny left me an awesome letter in computer. Again bringing the tears. My boys really are amazing.

Well, I am going to be yet another day behind. Mainly because my camera is downstairs and I am just too tired to go get it. I will upload and get caught up in the morning and will stay that way for tomorrow night. Then I will be able to start September off on the right foot.

Know that you are all in my prayers. To Josie....Happy Happy First Birthday Sweet Girl!!!

Ode' to the Mac Truck

Well, I am behind posting pictures and writing, but I am going to get better. I swear I need some serious organization help. I will get there though.

So I had writing Saturday and Sundays blog, but not uploaded the pictures. Well, Mondays blog (which is this one) needed to be written and pictures uploaded. Hopefully tonight I will be back on track!

Now Monday was horrible day....let me explain. I have asthma which is something I do not talk about very often. Well, it decided t swing into full gear, and I slept in Brandon's recliner. I literally spent the day dozing on and off. When I was awake it was because I was coughing.

I am super thankful for the doctor who did not make me come in but called me in meds. I have a dose pack, which normally I would not take for issues some of you know, but I truly feel like if I did not then I would end up in the hospital. Needless to say I am not game for that. I also got an antibiotic and a new inhaler. When Brandon came back from the drug store for me I felt like he had chosen one of everything.

Brandon ended up having to take the boys to school and pick them up. There is no way that I could have driven, and I was not even going to try. I was so appreciative for all of his help.

I am hoping that when the Mac truck comes back to town he can bypass our house completely. Being sick takes up too much time and effort. I would much rather it be me than the boys, but I would much prefer it to be none of us. So Mac next time please miss our turn...there are many detours!

Rio Night

So today I started to feel really bad, so I slept most of the day. I really hope I am not coming down with anything. I do not have the time to be set back. Please please find another way around Mac Truck.

The boys have been wanting to see Rio and so have Brandon and I. We had to go to Sam's to get a few things so while we were there I bought Rio so that we could have a family movie night. I am also hoping that this will get us in the bed early so I can get over this.

Well, I know that this is short, but we are going to watch the movie and I want to go to bed.

Sweet, Sweet Saturday

So there was a lot to get done this morning, and of course not all of it got done, but progress was made. Especially with my homework and editing photographs from Carrie and Keith's wedding. I am having a blast with getting this completed, but as all photographs are it can be very time consuming. I just hope that the bride and groom are enjoying what they have seen so far. Of course there will be more on the wedding later visit http://www.monicaannephotography.com/ to stay in touch with my photography journey.

Brandon's allergies decided to send him into a serious cold. Of course, my mom telling people yesterday he had one when he didn't probably jinxed it. There was no fever and still is not thank goodness. I just hope that tomorrow he is 100% I do not like it when my men are sick.

Josie's First Birthday Party was today. I cannot believe that she is a year old. It does not seem like it has been over a year that I was at Beth's Baby Shower...or almost right at a year that I was taking pictures of the sweet girl. Now here we are a year later. She is a precious baby. She is so friendly and so sweet and happy! Love surrounds Josie and Josie truly radiates love. We all went to the party. One we love Josie, Beth, and Brandon two I was photographing the special day and Brandon was videoing it. When Beth asked me to do this...all I could think was duh! Well, that was after my are you sure it is that time already? The party was truly a perfect first birthday party. More on this will be on my blog as soon as possible. It was a great party though, Beth and Brandon you should be so proud.

We had to go to my mom's as soon as we left the party. She was calling and texting worried about the fact her television was not working. Brandon got it fixed, well the one in the living room at least. I am glad that we got her at least half way to where she was!

The boys and I took Brandon and the big cameras home and then we went to visit Morgan Makenzie so that the boys could swim. They are always excited to see Morgan and when there is a pool involved they are even more excited! They swam for a couple of hours and then we came on home to check on Brandon.

I also want to wish our Nephew Hudson a very Happy First Birthday! I hope that his day and his party were amazing. We love you guys!

One more thing that I want to celebrate tonight. Alexa Nicole and Amanda are home in their own beds tonight. Hoping that the first night at home is a great one for the whol family. We love you guys and I hope to visit next week!

Well, everyone is in bed now and I am soon to head there myself. Lots to do tomorrow. Hoping that I hear the alarm so we can head to the 8:30 Mass. Good night everyone. I hope that you all have had a super sweet Saturday! It is definitely one of my favorite days of the week! Enjoy your family and the time that you are able to spend together so many times we all take it for granted.

Sneaky Fridays

So today Brandon and I got a good bit of running around done. Not much in the way of accomplishments, but it was a good day. I did get my "I DO" to Crystal, of Crystal's Creations, for you who do not know her work...you should!!! She coated them to give them a little umph....so I would not have to feel like I was carrying glass instead of wooden letters. YAY! I feel much better now. She also told me that "BOO" was on its way.

I also scouted a new location for session, and let me tell you guys I am in LOVE!!! I cannot wait to do a session there, it is going to be amazing. If I could move there I would be there tomorrow. It was seriously Mayberry! I am so in love, but it will be ok. It would be a great place to raise a family for so many reasons! Anyway, it will definitely be my new favorite location for photo shoots! I cannot wait to do some there. The sooner the better.

So I guess today was pretty productive, I wish I could have gotten more done at home, but hey that is what next week will be for....to try again. No promises though!

The boys had great days today at school. They loved it and the best part was they had minimal homework for the weekend, reading is the most important thing and that we do every night. I love to read and have always wanted that for the boys. We have been reading every night since Danny was born and that will not change anytime soon.

Danny really wanted Sneaky Pete's for dinner. He has been asking for it for a while, so tonight we made an exception and went out to eat. I really wanted Munoz and tried to change their minds, but Danny's was set and John Michael is not much for mexican, yep he is that kiddo who gets a corn dog. Gotta love it though. I have to admit that Sneaky Pete's was good and the HUGE Diet Coke that I was able to get was great!!!

Well, the boys are in bed and we have a very special first birthday party to get to tomorrow so I am headed there myself. Good night everyone, and know that you are all in my prayers. I hope that this weekend is full of many blessings, expected and unexpected.

Soccer Begins and Alexa Arrives

Today was a crazy day. I am so piled up with school work and photographs to edit that I feel like I am neglecting the house again. I will get better, this class and the next one are killers but once I get through them I think I will be okay. The biggest thing is I have to get my office in operable order. My dining room serving as an office is old, not to mention that I like to have Thanksgiving at my house and without a dining room, that is not going to happen. Not even close. Of course without a new stove that might be harder that I would like anyway, but I will make due.

The boys had a great day at school today.

I have to say that Thursday's homework with Danny is not going to be much fun. They get Thursdays papers and they have to correct everything that is incorrect. I think that it is good that it gives them more determination to do better throughout the week. The thing is Danny did great on everything, but it was two and a half weeks worth of work so it was a lot to go through and make sure that everything was perfect. Needless to say it was a lot of fun.

John Michael had his very first soccer practice today. He absolutely loved it! It was HOT...102 in the shade, and there is obviously no shade on a soccer field. He went through 2 bottles of water and Danny and I went through 1, only because we did not have any more. Next week there will be a cooler with us! Especially if it is still over 100. It was great to see him out there with his friends learning all about soccer! He is so ready for a game it is cracking me up. Serious thanks to Kristin for coaching these guys! Of course anything that is needed I am always glad to help out.

Also today was a very important day and will be from now on. My cousin Amanda had her baby. Alexa Nicole's birthday is today and will be always be remembered because of her amazing birth. Mom and baby are doing well! Thank you everyone who has prayed for them!

Well, I of course managed to get behind again, so I am off to write about Friday! Thursday was amazing though!

Wild About Scouting

So Wednesday arrived with a vengeance. I have so many photographs to edit, as well as so much work for school, and in the house well I am feeling slightly overwhelmed. Tonight was scout night so I had to be prepared.

The boys had an amazing day at school. John Michael was back on track with green smiley faces, and that always makes me happy. Danny said that he was busy all day but that it was a great day. Hearing how much my boys like school and are enjoying learning truly makes me really happy. I am so proud of both of them.

We got home and it was hurry up and get homework done. As soon as they were done we were back out the door. Headed to get gas (sort of need that to go anywhere) and then to St. Francis for Scout Night.

We were there about 5:30 and had everything set up and ready to go when the scouts arrived at 6:00. I am super pumped about our 8 new boys. Welcome to Pack 357! This is going to be a great year and I planned to start it off right. With Brandon Cub Master and Bear Den Leader and myself as a Committee Member and Treasurer to say I am involved in the planning is an understatement. We have a lot of new ideas for this coming year.

Tonight we kicked off with Ed's Pet World coming and bringing some really amazing friends! We had snakes, lizards, an alligator, tarantula, scorpion, hissing cock roach, and a bird. It was so much fun. I have not held a snake since I was little and that took some serious courage, but tonight I did it again. Better than that is that Brandon, who has a serious snake phobia held one. It was great and I was super proud that he did it for the boys! All I have to say is that sucker was heavy and the guys from Ed's Pet World were holding the other ends of him...needless to say he was a big sucker! I truly appreciate them coming out, it was great and the boys had a wonderful time. I think that the parents did too and so did any other children who came to visit. It was great and while snakes will not be at all of the pack meetings, I hope to have the excitement level just as fun!

Well, the boys are in bed and I am headed there soon. Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers! Bring a little excitement into your child's life and it will last a lifetime!

Gearing Up

Today was sort of progressive for me but also has me a little more stressed out than I like to be. I am going to continue to pray for answers to what is needed and go from there.

I was able to get Amanda's second maternity session done, check out my blog at http://www.monicaannephotography.com/ for more on that. I was glad to get it done for her though as it looks like Alexa could arrive any day! It is just a waiting for now. Praying for a healthy and happy mom and baby!

The boys had a great day at school, which makes me feel really good. John Michael drew a self portrait and it was so cute! Danny had a lot of homework, but came home and got it done, which really made me feel good. John Michael ended up with a yellow face today, which meant he was in trouble when he came home. He was not happy about it, but did understand. This time it was for talking...no surprise there! At least it was not hitting someone with his lunchbox again. Tuesdays seem to be his yellow days which make mommy a little sad. Hopefully tomorrow we will be back to green smiley faces, those make us all happy. He did get his homework done with no problems. His favorite part of course is reading, which I love to do so that is always great. Today was Dr. Suess "I Can Read With My Eyes Shut." This is a great one! Of course I am a huge Dr. Suess fan, always have been!

I have to get my office cleaned out, but I am also having to focus on the fact that tomorrow night is Scout Night. Hoping for a lot of new guys to join us! Say a little pray for our pack to continue to grow!

John Michael is playing soccer at St. Francis! This is something he has been so ready to do and now is his turn. His first practice is Thursday. With Scout Night tomorrow night, we went tonight and got his shoes. He was so excited, Academy had the shoes, shin guards, and a ball all packaged together. He was so cute, and cannot wait to go to practice. I am really excited too! Probably because he is...soccer is not really my thing, but I can and will learn. He was so funny when we got home and he wanted to try it all on again, and then he wanted his regular socks and could not decide if he should wear them over or under his shin guards....funny guy!

Well, I am off hopefully to bed soon. Going to work on a few pictures and some homework and then get to bed. I have a super busy week on all levels so I am thinking sleep might have to be deprived. Know that you will all always be in my thoughts and prayers.

What's for Dinner?

So here is the thing about Mondays, they are not usually horrible days but they are days where my mind is still going non stop for the weekend and about the week ahead. So they are usually not very productive either, which is truly a downer for me. I have so much happening that one non-productive day can really be a set back.

Today I think I stayed on even ground at least. Booked a wedding for 2012, which is always great to see that calendar filling up. Super excited about some things that are in the works, it is what I have needed for a while. I was also inducted into the Cambridge Who's Who for 2011-2012, and before you assume, it is not the pay and join version, they called, offered, and of course I accepted. What an honor. So many amazing things for MonicaAnne Photography. I truly love what I do, it makes me feel amazing!

The boys had a great day at school, and even homework was not torturous fight this afternoon, which is always a blessing! Sometimes I feel like that ship has too many holes. Today maybe we got a few of them mended.

Then it was time for dinner. I had boiled some chicken but still not decided what I was going to do with it. I have recently learned more about the blood disorder that is keeping me from losing weight so I am having to change many things. While I have to have carbs, I have to watch them, and more than that what kind they are. Brandon has been wanting Crescent Chicken, Crescent rolls not what I needed so I decided to make him and the boys Bacon Ranch Crescent Chicken. I made for myself Italian Chicken. The boys were super excited and ate it up, leaving just enough for Brandon to have lunch tomorrow. We also had a simple salad. It was all yummy, and I am hoping that these simple changes make a HUGE difference (especially in my size).

Well, showers have been given and I am off to work on homework, and some pictures. I also am looking forward to bed sooner than later.

We all have things that are troubling us, I hope that you can let it go and give it to God. This is where I struggle the most so I understand, but I am working on it myself. Know that you are all in my prayers.

Slow and Easy Sunday

So today I had great plans, we were going to get up and head to Mass, then get some errands done then come home and knock out some things. Well, that is not at all what happened.

We woke up and I felt really really bad so I went back to bed. Danny was not feeling great either so I sent him back to bed. The hopes were that we would all feel better. Danny did, but mommy not so much. The thing is as mommy it usually does not matter too much how I feel. I had promised John Michael Krispy Kreme today and he was holding me to it.

Needless to say I caved, but I am a sucker when it comes to my boys and I did make the promise so I held good to it. The boys loved it and I was just glad to get home and back in bed.

Amazing Family

Today Brandon and I had a wedding in Decatur. I have been looking forward to this wedding for a few months now.
Brandon and I started the day in the hotel's restaurant, which was delicious. The breakfast was a great way to start the day and something that we both knew would be needed as we had a long day ahead of us. Fortunately weddings are happy times and we were excited.
We left the hotel and headed to the bride's parents house. Meeting everyone was great. The bride was glowing, and like all brides on the wedding day ready for it to get there. The parent's were wonderful people. The wedding was gorgeous, but know that there will be many more details on the actual wedding and the whole day in my photography blog. Watch for it on http://www.monicaannephotography.com/
This was a family that I know I am blessed for meeting. They truly made my day. Meeting great people is part of my job, but these people I think will truly change my life, I think that they already have.
Decatur is an amazing town, and I really enjoyed it. I cannot wait to take the boys, just to check out the scenery and take a lot of just because it is gorgeous pictures! Hopefully we can make it a mini-cation for the family in a few weeks. That is what I am aiming for anyway. We shall see if I can get the checking account to agree with me!
We got home right around 10, it was an easy drive home, there was no traffic! Mom and the boys were here. She stuck around so I could take a shower, I felt gross from being outside and sweating all day. We got the boys in bed, and were right behind them!

Mini-Cation

Fridays are always busy and this one was no exception.

The boys had school, and they had a great day. It was show and tell for John Michael. He had to take something important to him that started with an A, B, C, D or E. He chose his BatPhone. He thought about a Batman, but Danny told him he bet other boys would take a Batman. So he picked his Batphone that was custom made for him by Deborah, and he loves. His whole class liked it, especially the boys! Danny said it was a great day and that he had a good time, but also had homework. There are no free days in third grade.

The boys were excited to be going to Nana's house to spend the night. Brandon and I have a wedding in Decatur Saturday so we are headed up tonight, so we do not have to be on the road all day tomorrow. We were excited about a mini vacation.

We headed up to Decatur and started with finding our hotel. We stayed at the Courtyard Marriott, which I was able to get at an amazing price on the night through Priceline.com. I am all about deals and this was definitely a good one. The room was very nice, so we got everything inside and headed out to dinner.

We chose O'Charleys mainly because there is not one in Birmingham anymore. It was delicious. Then we headed back to the hotel and enjoyed some time in the hot tub. They also had an indoor pool, but my shoulder has been killing me and I was hoping that a few minutes in the hot tub would help. It did help some.

Well, I miss the boys like I always do when they are not with me, but we have had a great Friday and I know that they are having fun with their Nana!

Triumphant Thursday

So today we got up on time and everything went like clockwork, which makes me one happy momma! I love it when we are not rushing in the mornings, everyone is in a better mood. I even got to walk John Michael across the cross walk when we got to school. He thought he was too big for momma earlier this week, but I think he knows that sometimes it is okay to still hold my hand. Of course Danny would not even look at me, he did give me a morning hug and kiss before we got out of the van. They grow up way too fast, and that is all I can even say about that!

When I picked them up from school they proceeded to tell me about their great days! John Michael was even wearing a crown, that they made...because it begins with C. Of course this became a storage place for the smurfs that were in the van so that they could ride with John Michael. He is so silly.

Homework time was well, as always a struggle to say the least. John Michael did great, but Danny for some reason just does not want to do it and in third grade it has to be done and then some. We will get on a better routine next week with it. I hope anyway.

I was able to finish up the wedding that I have been working on, which made me feel great. I even started on the first of 2 baby showers. I feel like I made some real progress. My kitchen is done, which always makes me feel better and let me just tell you all if you don't have a Swiffer Vac you should seriously consider one! So worth it. I am going to get on for the lake, at least that is my plan!

Well, I am off. I hope that you all had something triumphant happen to you on this amazing day!

Determination

Today we all woke up a little later than what we like, but we did okay on time. Nobody was late and that is pretty important! Uniforms really make getting ready so much easier, plus they are so cute! I love seeing my little men in uniforms! They make my day. Of course when we got to school John Michael almost forgot his bag, but we got it!

I had to run by the post office as I have had some stamps grow legs and leave me. I am thinking that the boys might know where they went but so far they are not telling me. Now that I have paid for more I am sure they will appear, isn't that the way that it works. I had to have them though. Bills are due and I do not think the companies will buy that they are paid, just not mailed yet.

I am determined to take back over the house and so far it is going as planned. I am having to work on editing pictures and homework all at the same time, but it is all progress being made! Laundry has been maintained so far and I am hoping to keep it up, one more lod today and I will stay caught up. I have done the colored clothes and towels now for the white clothes. Gotta keep the uniforms circulating! I also scrubbed the boys' bathroom, I swear it never fails...toothpaste everywhere and then just random stuff. I clean the bathrooms once a week at least, but this was a good old fashioned scrub down! I also worked on JT and Danielle's wedding pictures. They are almost done,which makes me feel so much better, but I also know that I still have a lot to get done! I will get there though. I do not think people realize that phtogaphy is not just clicking. I also went through my frames. I have several things that I need to frame so finding ones that would work was a task that had to be done.

Well, I am a day behind again, but mainly because last night I was tired! I will do better tonight!

Laundry

Today the purpose was laundry! It is the one household task that is never done because even as you are getting it all done you are wearing clothes and creating more. Drives me nuts, but with uniforms being worn and me not having enough to buy about 30 shirts for each boy it is a struggle. I am working on getting better though! Today I am caught up and now if I can just maintain we will be good to go! I am taking my house back, it has been controlled by the little folks all summer!

I made 2 dinners tonight. Not so I could freeze one, but because I made meatloaf which neither John Michael or myself care very much for. So I decided to go on and make spaghetti. Guess what though, we will have spaghetti tomorrow night and I am already done with dinner, other than the noodles that is. YAY! This is really good news for me because of how busy my week is about to get. I am not complaining though. In fact I am very thankful. I hope that it keeps it up!

This year has been about changes in so many areas and they are all definitely paying off. It is not always easy, but I am really determined to be the best person that I can be and do the best that I can. I am so glad that all of the changes have been positive and that so many things continue to look brighter each day. Now if we could just get the budget under control, which will come sooner than later. We are on our way to some amazing things!

Sorry for the crazy talk, but I have just had a lot going on today and really started to think about how much better things are now that we are taking time and truly enjoying life!

Homework time was pretty rough again, but it is done, which is always a nice feeling. I cannot understand what the deal is, but I am confident I am not the only mom with kids who do not want to get it done and over with. Oh well, hopefully soon they will get that I will not change my mind, they have to do it!

The boys both had good days today, John Michael was so excited about PE. He keeps talking about how great big kid school is. He cracks me up! He did come home with a yellow face today, which made me a little blue. We had a long talk and hopefully it will not happen again, especially since he repeated what I told him word for word to Brandon when he got home. At least I know he was listening.

Well, I am off. The boys are in bed and I am hoping to work on a few more pictures and then go there myself. Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers!

The Grocery Store

While many of you may not understand all of you mom's should. Summer grocery shopping is difficult because no matter who well organized I try to be, with 4 extra arms helping me shop I always forget what I came for, yes even with a list, and get more than what I needed. While the boys went back to school last week, I also had to get some things ready for Cub Scouts so today I started working on our house. The first step was the grocery store! Yes, I went alone. I got everything I needed, few things that we can always use that were on sale, and still spent less than I did all summer. It was great. While I love to be able to take my boys places, the grocery store is just one of those things I enjoy doing myself! I was very thankful to be able to today! It was definitely a blessing.

Small confession...before going to the store I went a got a pedicure, and decided to get a manicure as well. I am really going to try to do this for myself at least once a month, I always feel so much better after the fact. We shall see how that goes.

The boys had another great day at school, which makes my heart super happy! I am hoping that all of my friends who had their kiddos start school today had wonderful days! They all deserve it! Mommas and kiddos alike!

Homework time was sort of wild, you would think Danny would be all for the routine, but he was the one making it difficult! John Michael has homework everyday too, but he thinks it is awesome, something Danny has never thought. It all finally got done, but it was not an easy task. Third grade is a tough year, and I plan to stay all over him, I even raised the amount he will get for straight A's on a report card. Let's see if we can keep it up. For those of you who do not know Catholic school has much tougher scale than public school so it is money well earned if he keeps it up!

Well, I am off! Prayers are with you all!

Time with Family

Sunday was an amazing day at the lake. I am writing in past tense because I am behind. When we got home Sunday night it was time for bed! But here is a recap of the day!

Brandon's Mom, more commonly known as Meme came to the lake today. Meemaw and Pop came with her. It was so great to spend the day with them all. We have all been so busy that getting together and just relaxing has not been easy. We hope to do it a lot more! he brought some delicious hamburgers to grill from the Chopping Block. If you have not been by the butcher shop in Springville, I would definitely head that way!

John Michael's floatie also managed to pop, so we have to make sure we remember his shark next time we venture to the lake! Hopefully soon, probably Labor Day weekend. If you want to join us let me know!

We had a wonderful time and we were glad to have Brittany Ann stop by and spend some time with us too! We have a date to get together next month, so hopefully it will work out. She is playing soccer again though so who knows. It is seriously that we are all that busy we have to plan out a date to get together.

Sunday was wonderful. The boys passed out before we even got to 231. I could not believe it. Needless to say we got home, put them in their beds and followed! I hope that you all had an amazing weekend!

Fun in the Sun

Today was a great day! Waking up on the water is always a nice feeling! Danny was up and ready to fish before 7 this morning. It was all good though. He fished while I cooked breakfast. Then we had a few errands to go run, so we got them all done and were back before 11, which left a lot of time for water fun and some relaxing time in the sun.

I spent most of the day fishing, swimming, and just having a good time with the three men in my life who make every morning more than a blessing.

John Michael had Batman swimming with him, at one point we had 2 Batmans and 1 Robin. 3 Batmans if you count him. It was great, I dubbed them the defenders of the pier, especially once he was done playing with them, but wanted them to watch him! He also was Captain Jack Sparrow for a while today, he loves Pirates! I was tickled when he kissed my cheek, and even posted to the world on FaceBook that I got a kiss on the cheek from Captain Jack Sparrow!

Nick and Elliott came to spend the afternoon and night with us. John Michael was so glad to have Elliott here with him, and Danny was super excited to have Uncle Nick to fish with!

Danny also finally lost his tooth. He pulled it himself. Come to find out that is all the hold up was, he did not want momma to pull it, he wanted to do it himself. Just a little more growing up :(

I started drinking my bottle of Riesling from Sam's this afternoon and it took me all day but I finished it! Of course now I am out of wine, and am back to sweet tea. It was nice just to enjoy the water, my family, and a good glass of wine! I joked with Brandon that I conquered the bottle.

Well, I know that this is short, but I am editing the wedding from last weekend and need to get back to work! I hope that you all have a great night.

Movie Night at the Lake

So today was the first official school Friday and we have promised the boys all summer we would venture to the lake their first weekend. Guess what? We are here! I am super pumped that I remembered cords and everything so I am able to blog on time from here.

We got here about 3:30. We had to stop by the store and all that fun stuff and we have been non stop since we arrived. Once we got the truck unloaded, we all changed and decided to jump in for some fun in the water! Well, the water is pretty warm so getting too comfortable was hard to do. Oh well, it was fun.

I did not stay in long because Amanda, Patrick, and Jacob were coming for a quick family maternity session. It was great to see them, and Miss Alexa seems to be getting ready to let us all really see her! She has dropped a lot, so we will see! Patrick says Monday, she says 2 weeks. Will keep everyone posted. Pray for a a healthy baby and an easy delivery for Amanda. Thanks!

The boys had fun swimming and fishing. John Michael did not catch anything, but Danny caught a VERY small brim! He was so funny with it. That boy LOVES fishing! He was upset though because a new lure that he bought with his birthday money ended up coming off his line and flying to the middle of the lake...and of course down! We have promised him another one, hopefully this week, but definitely before we come back.

After swimming and fishing, and maternity shoots we headed in for showers, to cook, and to watch a movie. Danny brought Pirates of the Caribbean 1 and 2. I love me some Captain Jack Sparrow! We had fun watching the movie and watching John Michael mimic every move of Captain Jack Sparrow's, as he was him! He has found a new character girls, WATCH OUT! Who knows what will come of this.

Well, I am off to bed. I hope that you all have had an amazing Friday. For many this is the last weekend before school starts, and for others it is the first weekend of school. There are those who will not start for a while. Not matter where you fall in this enjoy your weekend!!!

First Project

So today was another great morning, in fact we were even better on time! YAY! The little thing that make me so happy! The boys were in a great mood this morning too!

After school, the boys told me all about there days, and they seemed to be great one.

John Michael brought home his first project. He was pretty excited, especially since it was one I got to help him with. It is an all about me project and we started on it as soon as we came in. We have till September to get it completely done, which is good since I need to print some pictures for it. He got all of the stars colored and I got most of the blanks filled out. It was great to hear his answers...example When I Grow Up I want to be "A Superhero just like Mario!"

Danny had some Social Studies homework and after some fun with balloons and feeding the dog he got started!

Brandon had to go to the ballpark and just so everyone knows it is not looking like it will work out, thank you all for the prayers on this one. It is okay though it means all Saturdays are not booked for this Fall so if you need a videographer let me know! :)

I got the boys fed, bathed, and in bed. It was an early night for all of us! Which is why I am not blogging until the next morning ;) I will be back on schedule tonight though!

First Day of School

So school started today, and of course we started it off by running behind. We were not late by any means, but I did not get as much time with them and my camera before school. Oh well, they were on time and that is what matters. They were so ready this morning, and getting them ready was probably the easiest it will be all year. I am very thankful though. I will definitely take each good morning as it comes! I hope for more of them.

John Michael had no problem walking straight to his class. I was teary, but did okay. He is growing up so fast.

Danny was a little hesitant, but I told him not to let what other people say be his judge. He is his own person and should make his own decisions about 3rd grade.

Both of the boys looked so handsome this morning. They can definitely rock the St. Francis Uniform. Brandon and I were definitely the proud mom and dad.

When I came home I worked on getting the Cub Scout calendar together for the year. We are always scrambling and that is not going to be the case this year. My goal for this week is cub scouts, next week I will take the house back over. Today I was able to get the dates written out on paper, and while the den meeting dates may change due to sports the pack meetings will not. I have also started to get trips planned, guest speakers, and popcorn issues all worked out! It will be nice to have this together when the leaders meet up. It will also make it easier for us to meet via e-mail as most details will be worked out instead of going in blank.

The boys' got out at 1 today and I was so ready to pick them up. I could not wait to hear about their day. John Michael said that he loved ordering his lunch and that chicken dinosaurs are his new favorite. He also said that he wants to order more than once a week, that is doable, but will have to wait for next month. He told me all about his teacher, his rules, and his new friends. He also was very proud of the fact that he did his work, and yes it was coloring! Danny said that his day was great. He said that he was worried about nothing! He knows it is going to be a tough year, but also knows that it will be a fun one. Needless to say all good reports and huge smiles.

Brandon wanted us to drop by on our way home so he could be filled in so we did, but on our way I got them both a snack size McFlurry, which made their day! I am just glad I had some quarters in the door pocket so that I could do it for them.

We went swimming at Deborah's for a while. The boys were glad that Morgan Makenzie came out to swim with them, and John Michael told her all about his day! Thank you so much for letting us come over! It means a lot to us all. It was a great way for the boys to unwind.

We came home and homework was done, dinner was eaten, baths and showers were given, and the sweet dreams have started.

Overall it was a great day and night! Now I am off to bed so that we can do it again in the morning! Know that you will all be in my prayers as I go to bed.

Meet the Teacher

Well today we got to take the boys' school supplies to their classrooms. They were able to meet their teachers and see their desks, and all that fun stuff.

I have to admit I am a little sad tonight. One, I cannot believe that summer is over. I love summertime, and the fact that it has come to a close makes me a sad momma. I will miss the days with the boys. I am looking forward to getting everyone, including me on a schedule and the house in order. The other reason I am a little sad is that the boys are growing up. John Michael is headed into Kindergarten and Danny into third grade. WOW! Where the heck did the time go? Seems like they should still be babies.

I am so glad that they are excited. It makes me feel like I have done an okay job given the fact that they are happy and independent.

We also got school shoes today. Yes, the last minute is what works for me. What works for you? I really did not mean to wait quite this long, but there was the issue of money more than anything. Not that the issue is still not there, but time was out so now I am just praying! Deposit before clearing! ;)

Brandon has had a great offer for a job this weekend. We might end up in Mobile instead of at the lake. Either one will make me happy. However it is supposed to work out is how it will.

Well, I am off to bed. I am going to get their uniforms out and ready and get in bed at a decent hour. I do not want to start off the school year running behind! I will be in need of support tomorrow, so if you think you see me, check my face for the marks of tears! I am going to do my best to keep it in check until they are in the school. It bothers Danny when momma gets sad. They both were told that First Day of School pictures start in the morning and to be ready! Prayers going out to all of you tonight!

Doctors and School Supplies

Well this morning started early, not only did I get up at 5, but the boys also decided that they would get up at 5. Needless to say we were on schedule today.

John Michael had an appointment with the ENT to see about tubes, this will be his second set. They definitely are going to do the surgery and they will also be removing his adenoids. He has one eardrum that is inverted, but the positive thing is that his hearing is not affected at all. While he and I went to the doctor Danny went to work with Brandon, which was just fine with him. He loves going to the Network.

We all met up for lunch, and I got Danny and Brandon got John Michael. Danny had his 8 year old check up at 2. Dr. Lytle was very pleased with Danny and how well he has been doing. He gave us the form for the inhaler at school, and that was done. Other than the wait, which was not as bad as it has been in the past, it was a pleasant trip.

Danny and I got home and labeled all of the school supplies. They have been in the den and in the foyer for weeks, but I have not been able to label them. Well, it had to be today, since we are taking them to the classroom tomorrow. I have laughed at the difference in their stacks. As Danny is going into 3rd grade a lot of the larger items (paper towels, baby wipes, etc) have been removed from the list. The Kindergarten list was definitely rocking and is still missing 2 items. I cannot find a paint brush that they are supposed to have or the size glue that they are supposed to have. I will ask the teacher tomorrow though and get it to them.

Brandon and John Michael got home and I got dinner ready. After dinner it was shower/bath time, and within an hour the boys were asleep. I was dosing on the couch myself, and should have just gone on to bed, but that would make too much sense.

Well, I am off to bed now though, still before 11, so I am pumped, but it seriously could have been 8, which would have been nice. I will say a prayer for you all before I go to bed.

Girl Baby and A Yard Again!!!

Today started off great. We went to Mass at 8:30 this morning, which is my favorite Mass. I am not sure why, but it always has been. I love starting Sundays off right! The boys' were excellent which is always nice!

We came home and I started to get everything ready for Amanda's Baby shower. We are finally getting a girl in the family, it has been a long time. Amanda is a pretty pregnant, and I know that she is ready, but she really does have that mommy glow. The shower was pink and lime green. I cannot wait to get to work on the pictures.

Of course there are a few session in front of hers, but I will get there. I plan to work my tail off to get caught back up! Of course I am very thankful to be so busy though, and I am hoping that it stays that way. I love what I do and I am loving every minute of working, which is a wonderful feeling.

Amanda got a lot of really nice things, all the pink was so great to see! Alexa is not going to want for anything that is a definite. I cannot wait to take some newborn pictures. My aunt made a cake and cupcakes, and while I could not eat the strawberry cake, the cupcakes were delicious. She also made the fondant and it was very good! Seriously like eating marshmallows, and that you cannot go wrong with.

I came home and Brandon had been working in the yard, in fact you could tell that we had a yard again. He has been able to cut it, but not weed eat so some areas were tough to handle. He did not cut today, but got all of the weed eating done and now he can cut when in the afternoons when he gets home. It looked great and I was super appreciative.

Well, I am off to bed. I finished editing one birthday party's photographs and started on the next today so hopefully I can wrap it up tomorrow night. Not holding my breath though, there is a lot to do to get ready for school, and tomorrow is doctor day for both boys and John Michael's meeting with the Kindergarten teachers. Hopefully it will be a no waiting kind of day though, that is the worst part about the doctor's office!

Know that you are all in my prayers tonight. I hope that there were many blessings for each of you this weekend. If you live close the rain tonight, was a definite needed blessing for us all!