Four Years in The Making

So today is a day that has been four years in the making. Today is Leap Day! I hope that everyone had a great day.

I started to think that I wish I was more creative or prepared or whatever, so that I could have had something great planned for today. That is my four year goal....make sure that the next leap day is AWESOME! Good thing I have four years to plan that one.

I would love to hear some great ideas for making Leap Day special for a family.

So the headache is sort of on again off again. As long as I am not smelling food I am okay. Considering I was cooking all day it was more of an on again kind of day.

I made lasagna for us and for the Smith family. I hope that they enjoyed theirs as much as the boys in my house enjoyed theirs. I do not think I have seen John Michael eat so good at meal time in a while. YAY! I was just not feeling it so I watched them eat. What can you do.

We had our pinewood derby car distribution and cutting tonight. We had all but a few boys show up so unless requesting otherwise we used a template and cut it out for them and we will get them all delivered next week at the den meetings. I know how much fun the pinewood derby is for everyone involved.

There was a possibility of storms in the area tonight but things stayed pretty calm. There was rain and even a little thunder and lightening, but in comparison it was definitely not as bad as expecting. Now to pray that Friday night stays relatively calm.

Well, I am finally caught up on my blog YAY! A small blessing for an amazing year. I cannot believe that today is the last day of February. WOW! Happy March everyone!

Tuesday

Well my migraine is still there, but nothing in comparision.
John Michael has been on a yellow face kick this made three days in a row. I am pretty sad about that. I know that he can do better and hopefully he will.
Danny has a big Social Studies test, so we are studing hard to make sure that he does great. I know that he can he is a smart fellow.
Today was a rather mild day, we were thankful not to have much going on so we could actually be in bed early tonight. This was a HUGE blessing as we have been non stop for a while so one down day and night is just what was needed for all of us.

Shamrock Classic Basketball Champions

So today was a crazy day I woke up around 3 with a serious migraine. Like a made me sick migraine. Brandon took the boys to school because I just could not get it together. I seriously thought I would sleep it off in a few hours.

Well, the time came to get the boys, since they get out at 2 on Mondays it comes quick when you are hiding in the dark under the covers. The migraine still letting me know who was owning who so my seriously amazing husband went and got the boys and headed home early.

We had a game to get to and since I had no fever I was determined to be there for my baby who was only one win away from the championship. I had taken all that I had to take, that would leave me unzombie like for the game and when it was time we headed out.

We had to be there by 6:30, and we made it. My head was not a friend at all but I was trying. Thankfully Amy had some Tylenol and was so sweet to share. She could tell that I just could not handle anymore. I was praying for a win, because a loss would mean another game at 8:30. I was so hot, another good sign that there was no fevers happening, just migraine issues.

The game started at 7:10 and we were up against Prince of Peace again. It was a close game at first, but by the second half our boys were making serious progress and we were announced the Shamrock Champions! GO SAINTS!!! This was the 5th Shamrock Classic Tournament win for the 3rd-4th grade boys for St. Francis! Super super proud. The boys all got a medal, a certificate, and a St. Patrick's statue. The school has the Shamrock Classic Plaque for one year and a new beautiful first place trophy! Congratulations to Coach Adam and all of the boys!

John Michael was able to announce Danny's name at the end of the game which made the night as special for him as it wasfor Danny! I am so proud of both my boys! I think we might have to invest in a trophy cabinet for our house!

Fifteenth Annual Shamrock Classic - Day One

So today I was completely torn. A childhood friend who I love dearly was having her baby shower today, let me rephrase I was helping to host it. Danny was also in his first basketball tournament. Mom was also a host and assured me that it was okay that I should go to the game. I hope that Aubrey understands how much I love her and that had it not been for my own children I would have been there for her.

The Shamrock tournament is double elimination and lasts for two days. We were hoping to be the champions, but we had to survive day one first.

Our first game was against one of the two Prince of Peace teams. We won! It was a great game and the first lost for the Prince of Peace team. This game was at 2.

Now we wait till 5 for game 2 for us for the tournament. If we win this one we play tomorrow at 7:10, if we lose tomorrow at 6:10. Considering the tournament is at St. Patrick's in Adamsville 7:10 would be much easier for everyone.

While waiting John Michael made friends at the concession stand. He was a great customer for them, and after Danny's game they announced that he had just had a birthday and everyone sang Happy Birthday to him. He is so full of personality and I am so thankful that he is as outgoing as he is. He seriously cracks me up all of the time!

Game 2 for us is the other Prince of Peace team. We are both currently undefeated. I am super pumped to say that we won! YAY!!! Go Saints! It is so much fun to watch these boys who are so pumped do amazing and feel good about the games that they have played.

We headed home for showers and bed. It was a long day in Adamsville, but definitely a great one.

Regular Basketball Season Comes to an End

We knew that today was going to be a busy one. It started with basketball.

John Michael had a game at 10:00 at St. Francis. They played Our Lady of the Valley and even though they did not win they had a blast. They only lost by one point, and I do not even think most of them realized that they lost. I love the fact that they had such a good time. This whole season they have all gotten better, they have really turned into some aggressive players, which is so fun to watch. I hate that they ended the season with a loss, but they played great and as far as I am concerned that is a plus and the season ended on a high note. I am seriously going to miss basketball, already ready for next year and John Michael's first grade basketball season.

Danny's game was a 12:00 so we just hung out, which worked. We watched the girls 6-8th grade team play at 11, and let me just say WOW! Those girls are seriously amazing!

Danny's game was against Our Lady of Fatima and well, it was a good game even though not called 100% fairly. They had our guys shooting free throws from one line and their guys shooting from another. There did not seem to be a boundary line on the court for their team either. It was rough. They ended up losing too, which was a serious bummer, but all is good, they still were second in the Toy Bowl regular season! GO SAINTS!!! I was super proud of how well they played and how much sportsmanship they showed given what they were up against.

We then headed out to do things that John Michael wanted to do for his birthday since he was in school for his. We went to Toys R Us, where he spent his gift card from Santa. Then we headed to the Galleria. That is what he wanted for dinner. LOL! Seriously, he is a trip. We also went to Build A Bear where the boys both made an Alvin, then to eat and ride the carousel and then we went to the Lego store. While we were riding the carousel we saw our dearest friends the Hughes' family. I love running into Amy when I least expect it, it just makes so many things seem better. Plus I really missed her so it made seeing her even better. :0)

While we were at the Lego Store Danny had a bad nose bleed. It was crazy for a few minutes but we got it under control and headed home. It was a busy day but a really great one with my amazing family!

Revelations on Fridays

So prayers were going up this morning. I cannot give too much detail on this right now, but maybe in a week. If all goes as planned. I will say that it is looking promising. Out of disasters there are always signs of hope and maybe something that needed to happen a while ago will soon be happening. Keep the prayers coming please! Thanks everyone!
I am never short of amazed by the way that people will treat others, some people who call themselves a friend should think about how they treat others.
The boys had a great day at school, and I have to say I did something stupid. I stopped by the dream cakes cupcake van. I got a Curious George Cupcake and it was by far the most amazing cupcake I have ever put into my mouth. It was a banana cupcake with a peanut butter butter cream icing, and WOW! Yep that is all I have to say! Should not have ever gone there because now I will be craving it.
John Michael had basketball practice today which was a lot of fun and I have to admit it was a little sad since it will be his last practice this year. I love basketball and am already ready for next year!

Happy 6th Birthday John Michael

So I woke up this morning with the unbelievable realization that my baby is six years old. I have to admit that I am a little sad. He is growing up so quickly and into such a charming young man. We woke him up by singing Happy Birthday to him, and he woke up in the best mood!

Since Danny was sick I called my mom to see if she could come sit with him since I had a full day at the school planned with John Michael and his class. She was glad to do it, she hated that Danny was not feeling good, but knew that I was torn on being in two places at the same time. I am so thankful that she was able to come and sit with him. He liked the time with his Nana too.

Because the Kindergarten had a field trip they got to wear jeans and their spirit shirts, which was awesome in his eyes. No uniform on his birthday!

I took John Michael to school and then hung out waiting for his class. We were headed to Children's Theater to see The Little Engine that Could. John Michael was so funny. He knew that his teachers and Mr. Wright planned this trip just for his birthday, he even told them thank you for doing it. So sweet. I had Caleb, Cathy, and John Michael with me. Miss Ghossein also rode with me, which made John Michael's day. He loves his teacher, which makes me so happy. The play was really cute, the kids loved it. It ended up being Rusty's, the train, birthday too. Again, John Michael thought that it was awesome, he shared a birthday with a man who is a train.

After we got back to the school I headed out for a cupcake hunt, which I was worried would be a nightmare. Publix in Irondale had 30 Batman Cupcakes already prepared. It was awesome!!! I was really worried I would be limited to flowers since I did not order them and he wanted them for his class and Miss Noto's. He also wanted them to all get some M&M's. That was an easy order to fill. When I took them to the class the kids were so excited, but especially John Michael. I love the way that his eyes light up when I come to his class, it is a magical mommy moment.

We headed home after school and Danny was feeling much better which meant a lot to John Michael because we were still going to be able to go to Outback for his birthday dinner. It was delicious and even though a Bitch tried to ruin it while we were there a wonderful man who was celebrating his 72nd birthday made up for her. Some people seriously should not be allowed in public though. I have not had the maddening desire to hit someone in a long time. Seriously just rude, and hateful, and well rude. Thank you mom, Sybil, and Deborah for coming with us to celebrate his 6th birthday.

Today was a super special day! Happy Birthday to my sweet John Michael. Just remember you will always be my baby!!!

Ash Wednesday

Today was a crazy Ash Wednesday. I enjoyed going to Mass with my boys. There is something so special about all of the school Masses, but Ash Wednesday is always so special. I wish that Brandon could have come with us, but I know that he has to work.

Around lunch time I got a call from the school that Danny was sick. I headed to get him, and went on and got John Michael too. He was excited to check out, but did not like that Danny was sick.

Danny never got sick again, but stayed in the chair all day and night. Tomorrow is John Michael's birthday and I teased Danny about going to a lot of trouble to get out of school for his brother's birthday. We watched the Ten Commandments. We got it on Blu Ray and Danny has really been wanting to see it but it is a rare day that we have that much time to sit down and watch a movie.

I cannot believe that it is John Michael's last day to be 5. The picture is his last 5 year old picture. It is definitely one of those bittersweet moments.

Brandon had a leader's meeting for scouts. I would have been but needed to stay home with my sick little man. It went great though, which I knew that it would. Now to get ready to end the scouting year with a bang and start next year.

Fat Tuesday

So we started today with Donuts from the school. The 8th grade was selling Krispy Kreme for a fundraiser so w got a box and that was breakfast.

I was working around the house and fell and did something to my knee and my shoulder. It was nuts and because it happened so fast I am not sure what, when or how. Glad to say that the box of Christmas decorations I was carrying that ended up all over the place was fine. I did somehow manage to not knock my face off.

After basketball practice we headed to McDonald's to bring home a shamrock shake for everyone. They are so good and since Fast Food is being given up for Lent it seemed like the best way to end Fat Tuesday.

Happy President's Day

So I hope that everyone enjoyed their day off this week. I know that the boys did. We had a lot to get done, but it was fun and we had a great day.
We headed to Chick-fil-A for breakfast, and it was very good! Then to K-Mart to return some Christmas gifts. They have just been sitting here and I am trying to clean up and out. It will make it much easier when we move if we do it now. Then we headed to Learning Express. I got a few Christmas gifts for kids at 50% off which makes me happy. The boys got some cool stuff and Danny got John Michael a birthday present. He is such a sweet baby. Then to Target, this time to take back extras from Valentine's. When we got the things to do the goodie bags, we might have gone a little overboard. It is all good though. While we were there I got invitations fr John Michael's party and he got a pinata. I also got goodie bags, I just hope that I can find the time to turn them into legos. We shall see. Then we headed to Books A Million. I needed the next Alex Cross book. I just started reading the series so I am way behind. Danny also had a gift card that he wanted to use. Subway was lunch and it was so good! Then to Staples for a return and then to WalMart. We had a few returns and ended up getting a few more things for John Michael's birthday party. It was a super busy day, but so much fun to spend the day with the boys.

Sundays

Everyone needs a lazy day and today was that day. I ended up sleeping really late, we all did. Brandon went to Whataburger, mom really wanted it for breakfast and it sounded good to all of us to.
Mom stayed until we left to go to Mass. Hopefully she will go with us next weekend. I enjoy going to Mass as a family and I wish that she would come with us more regularly. John Michael decided to recite the entire Mass, during it. I have to say I was proud that he could do it, but really frustrated because he was being pretty loud while doing it.

Birthday Party and Basketball

This morning was JT's 9th Birthday party, it was also his Birthday! His party was at the Trussville Playstation. They boys had a blast skating and I was so proud of them. I used to love to skate, but last time I tried I just could not make it work. It is definitely not like riding a bike. Maybe when this extra weight is gone it will be easier. We shall see.

It was great watching so many of the third graders learning to skate together. They all did great. While some could really move, most were just trying to stay upright. I wish I would have had my camera, it would have been so much fun to get them all out on the rink.

John Michael had a basketball game at St. Rose so we headed to SouthSide. Coach Chris has the flu so Clyde and Brandon were coaching. I am so proud to say that they are officially undefeated, not the team but those two as basketball coaches. I think they are glad that is not their full time gig. We had a boy on our team shoot at the last second and that ball went in nothing but net. It was gorgeous! It seriously was like out of a movie. We won 6-2. They were some super happy boys!

The rest of the day was pretty lazy. It was raining and just not great, but it was still a great Saturday with the family.

New Vans

So Fridays are always hectic and since we still do not have our Christmas decorations all up they seem to be even busier. Maybe everyone wants us to keep everything up as long as possible.
My mom got a new van so after I took the boys' to school I went by to check it out. I am so happy for her. Nobody deserves it more. I know that she has a hard time asking others for help and has constantly been apologetic for not having a car. While there is no reason for her to be, I enjoy helping out, I know that she has to feel like she has a little freedom and I know that means a lot to her.
After we got the boys from school Brandon and I took them by there so that Brandon and the boys could see her van. The boys were so excited and it was really cute.
John Michael had practice so we did not get to stay long, but it was nice having a quick visit.
other visit with her and Sybil.

Marathon Participants

So today was a special day for all of the student's who ran in the Mercedes Marathon. They were able to wear their marathon shirts and their medals for everyone to see.
I have to say the boys' looked so cute alldecked out. I know taht they were proud. The thing is at school they run 25.2 miles so on the marathon day they ran one mile and completed their marathon. The middle school students were able to run in the 5K. It was great to see so many students at St. Francis who participated. What an awesome thing. While many schools were there I think thatour presence was the most noticeable. I am glad that these students were able to have a special day at school to celebrate their accomplishments.
Danny had basketball practice tonight, so we were back at the school for a good portion of the night, but it is all good.

Blue and Gold

Today was a busy day for mom and me, but it was a good day.

Tonight we had our Blue and Gold for Cub Scouts. It is a great day as we celebrate the birthday of scouting, which is actually the 8th of February.

We had a pot luck dinner, and it was wonderful. Even though I was too busy to eat all of the boys' and their parents were able to eat. There were hot dogs, BBQ, chicken of many sorts, macaroni and cheese, cookies, brownies, chips and dip, and so much more.

The Wolves and the Bears both earned their advancement badges, which is great news. Now we can enjoy the rest of the year, and concentrate on having fun and earning elective points. I was super proud of the boys they have worked really hard. I also appreciate their parents and all that they have done to get them to meetings and help out.

Valentine's Day

Both boys' had parties at school today to celebrate Valentine's. They were both a lot of fun and boy did they get loaded up on some candy and other goodies.

I am so thankful that I am able to be at the boys' school for these fun events. It means so much to me and I hope that it means a lot to them as well.

Brandon is so amazing he surprised me with Chinese (take out) and carnations and some SweetHearts. It is amazing to have such a thoughtful and amazing husband.

We gave the boys some candy and a dollar. They were so excited, it was so cute and made my heart soar. I thank God for my family everyday.

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone.

Getting Ready for Valentine's Day

The boys' are so excited about their Valentine's Day parties at school tomorrow. We had to go to Target to get what they needed. We were so behind. Oh well, it was a fun trip with my boys and they had the best time getting the things to make Valentine's for their classmates.

The got Candy, tattoos, and all sorts of random things to add to their Valentine's fun. John Michael got his teacher some gorgeous flowers. He also got the other Kindergarten teacher a small box of chocolates. Danny got his teacher a box of chocolates and his religion teacher a chocolate rose.

When we got home the boys had a blast making their Valentine's bags for their friends. We all had a good time, and it was a great night.

Scout Sunday

So this is one of my favorite Scout days. Scout Sunday allows the boys' to be recognized by other's and gives them an opportunity to participate in Mass. Usually we take a group picture but after Mass everyone was pretty much gone. I hate that we did not get it, but I also understand.

It was so cold, all I wanted to do was go home and get in bed. Of course that was not an option though.

It was a great Sunday and was somewhat productive. We have so much going on, but it is also nice to have a day working together and getting things done. Or at least trying to.

Danny presented one of the gifts at Mass. I was so proud of him. He loves being a part of Mass and that means so much to me. As he is getting older I hope that this desire of his continues.

Marathon, Party & Snow!!

So today started with the Kid's Mercedes Marathon. The boys had already run 25.2 miles at school, today they had to run one mile to complete the Kid's Marathon. It was so cold and the wind was horrible. We got there at 9:30 to meet up with the school for some pictures and a prayer. It was great to see everyone because as soon as we got to where the kids started it was chaos to say the least. When the 3rd graders left the starting line I headed to the finish line. John Michael and Brandon were still waiting for the Kindergarten to race. Danny and Chandler crossed the finish line together. I was so proud of him. I have to say it was hard to let him go in downtown by himself, I even cried a little, but he did so good. Brandon and John Michael also did great. Brandon ran with John Michael and we had to laugh because now he can say he ran in a Marathon. John Michael and Danny got a medal and were so excited.

We left the Marathon and the boys' wanted Sneaky Pete's of all places. While we were inside John Michael started talking about the snow that he was seeing. We looked outside and it was actually snowing. Seriously, it was 70 when the week started, now it was 12:00 in the afternoon, 30 degrees, and worst of all was that it was snowing. The only good news was that it was not supposed to amount to anything.

After lunch we headed to Clay to get the boys' signed up for baseball. I cannot believe that it is that time of the year already. We are still in basketball and we will literally go straight from one to the other, but it is all good. We are all excited about the season starting. It is always a super busy but definitely fun time of the year.

After registering we headed to Amy and Terry's house for Sasha's 9th birthday party. It was a great party. Amy had made cupcakes and the kids decorated their own, it was a great idea and everyone seemed to love it. The kids had a blast.

Needless to say today was a very busy day. I have to say I have never been as cold as I was today it was miserable.

Fridays are Fabulous

So like every Friday there was a list to do about a mile long. The good thing is we got it done though so I am thrilled to say the least.
We took the boys' to school and they had great days, which is so important. They are always glad that it is Friday, but they also know that this is going to be a busy weekend. I think our to do list is why mom decided to stay at Sybil's this weekend. We seriously never stop, so I am not sure why she thought this weekend would be different. Well, there is the fact that it is going to be COLD!!!
We had to take Jamie his hand trucks this morning. He is moving which is always exciting. Those hand trucks have come in hand so often, and we are always thankful to him for letting us use them.
We had a few more errands to run including getting Aubrey's invitations to mom so that she could tie the bows and get them sent out. The good thing is that they were addressed and ready to be sent I jus have zero bow abilities. I hope that she likes them. I personally think that they are adorable, but making them might make me a little biased.
Well, there was a lot happening but bedtime is a must. We have so much going on and so much running through our heads that sleeping is something that is not happening the way that I wish it would.

Thursday

So today was a crazy day. The news that the Network was suing the Obama Administration was shocking, but definitely something that needed to be done. I am just worried about having health insurance now. The government has zero right to tell anyone what they have to do when it comes to certain aspects of life, yet here they are making demands. It is scary when the Constitution is completely overlooked and disrespected. The current administration has destroyed a lot of what this country was founded for and that is some serious scary stuff people.
This is always Brandon's busy day today it was crazy insane, but I think overall a good day. It was a long one though.
I worked on our taxes while the boys were at school and finished them up and got them filed after everyone went to bed. I hope that the money comes in quick. This year, I am so paying off some debt. Maybe just maybe we can get ahead without these little guys weighing us down. I just hope that I can make it go further than it seems like I can. We shall see overall what happens. But I am definitely praying that things go smoothly and work out well, it seems like more times than not there is never enough.
The boys had a great day at school and homework was done pretty quick. Today was progress report day and they did great. I have to brag for a minute on Danny who made a 99 in Math! Yes, I am so so proud of him. He loves math and he is working really hard this year.

Bible Bee vs. Den Meeting

Today started with Mass with the School which is always a great way to get through the week, for me it is my chance to regroup and refocus. I enjoy being there with the boys, their school, and Jesus. It is just a good time for me and I think that they enjoy me being there.
So today was the Bible Bee Study. At least I thought that it was so I cancled our Cub Scout den meeting. I picked up John Michael and then drove to the back of the parking lot. About fifteen minutes later I saw Mr. Wright and Danny walking across the parking lot. Evidentally it was the 6-8th graders week for the Bible Bee and they canceled so there was nothing. I was just glad I was not the only parent with the wrong week. Oh well, that is what I get for trying to get on a schedule.
Tonight the Kindergarten classes sent us dinner. It was delicious. It was Kabobs, rice, salad, and chocolate cake from Zoe's.

Basketball Pratice x's 2

Tuesday was day 2 devoted to laundry. I really need a plumber who wants to donate some time at my house. This leaking washing machine is about to be the end of my sanity. I cannot get caught up much less ahead which is slowing down the Christmas stuff coming down drastically.
The boys had a great day at school, which is great for mommy! We had homework but it was definitely bareable. We still ended up being about 10 minutes late to practice.
John Michael had practice at 5:30 and Danny at 6:3o. They both did pretty good. I am glad to see them improving. That is what matters the most to Brandon and I. They do not have to be stars, but to see them doing their best and their best getting better is truly amazing. There is something about watching a child grow in the many faucets of life.
We came home and I rushed around the kitchen making chicken and dumplings. I already had the chicken done and just needed to make the dumplings. I have never made such a small amount or made them so quickly, but it was really good and definitely hit the spot.

Just another Monday

Monday I worked a lot aroung the house. There is so much to do and well, I dedicated today to laundry and Christmas. I do not think I accomplished much of anything other than rearranging the junk piled up in my bedroom. I tried, I just was not as successful as I wanted to be.
The boys had a great day at school today. Which means a lot to me. There was a little homework but nothing too bad.
I started to look at house plans. Mom wants to build a house for us all, which is great, but I think we should look to buy outside of Jefferson county. Maybe I will run it by her soon. I love her neighborhood, but there are some so much better, especially for families. We will see what happens.

Super Bowl Sunday

So I am really behind on my blogging. I am definitely going to work on that. In fact I have fallen behind everywhere. I am working on all of that. I will get back to some sort of schedule sooner than later, at least I hope that I will.
We slept in this Sunday. We all just needed to rest. After a good family breakfast I took mom to Sybil so that they could do some errands. Like get mom a bed or at least go to look at some. I think that they had a good day.
We headed to Mass at 5:00. This is Brandon and mine's favorite Mass, but John Michael does not do great at this Mass. He is to that getting tired and restless place.
I have to say I completely forgot about the SuperBowl. I am seriously that good. I am not a huge NFL fan, but we were supposed to go to a friend's house. Needless to say we missed the party. We got home for the halftime show. Madonna still amazes me. While she was not her 80's self, she was great. I have to say I am glad that I saw that. We watched the rest of the game, which did not disappoint at all.

Basketball

So this morning started out simple. We tried to move slow and just enjoy the morning. I made cinnamon rolls this morning, and the boys' helped. They are a great help, and that means a lot. Just the extra time with them means so much to me.
John Michael's team was off this week. They probably need the off week especially after the way that they were at practice this week.
Danny's team was definitely on. They played Prince of Peace Catholic School at St. Francis. Home games are always nice. Mom's head was still hurting so she stayed home. Uncle Kenny and Uncle Patrick came though, which was nice. The boys' always like to have an audience and I cannot blame them. It is always nice to have people cheering you on. They won, 26-20 I think. Super proud of them.
Chandler came home with us after the game to play. Danny, Chandler, and John Michael played kickball, baseball, and of course basketball. They had a blast. I cooked a few frozen pizzas and they ate them quick. While they played I cleaned out the van. Now to wash it and really clean it. Brandon worked on the decorations outside. He is almost there, which I know makes him feel better. The hard part is getting it all down, not putting it all up.
I also tried to knock out a good bit of laundry today, with the washing machine still leaking it is never easy, but while it was not raining and we were all outside I just left the door open and swept out what I could when it came. Almost there.
After Chandler's dad picked him up Danny and I went to the store. I have needed to go and just have not had five spare minutes. I am glad that I was able to get it done. I did forget a lot, so I guess tomorrow I will be headed back. It never stops, but I am definitely working on it.
Dinner was delicious if I do toot my own horn. It was easy and something I will probably be doing a lot more. We shall see, especially since mom and the boys liked it and it went a long way and still have some leftovers for Brandon a lunch next week. Another positive.
Well, I am trying to get back to normal, or our new normal. I am giving myself this month to do that. It has not been easy, but I know that there are reasons far beyond what I understand (or think I do anyway) and I am not questioning I am just going with it and trying to do the best for everyone.
Good night all. I am determined to get some good sleep and maybe just maybe make it to Mass at 8:00, otherwise it will 11:00 or 5:00. I like having options, but I do not like not knowing when I am headed where.

Jump Rope for Heart

So Friday's are always my favorite day of the week, even though they are one of the busiest.
We have had so much going on that I feel like I am running backwards and even though today was no exception it was a great day.
To end Catholic Schools Week the school does Jump Rope for Heart. It is one of my favorite days of the year. The school is raising money for the American Heart Association which is a great charity in my opinion. John Michael has gone with me every year, but this year was the first time he was a part of it. Both boys had a blast! I am so proud of them both.
John Michael had basketball practice tonight. He did better and is becoming a much better shooter, I just wish that he would pay more attention. His coach has some serious patience that I just cannot even begin to match. Thanks so much for everything Coach!

Groundhog Day

So both Phil and Bill saw their shadow so that means six more weeks of winter. Now if it means winter in the sixties like we have been having then I am good with that. I am not a fan of winter, so bypassing it almost completely has not hurt my feelings at all.
The boys had a great day at school. Catholic School's week is always a fun week for everyone, and this year has been no exception. Today was Teacher Appreciation. I have to say I appreciate the faculty and staff at St. Francis Xavier more than I could ever show them. I try to show them throughout the year, and not just on one day, but the one day is very nice.
Danny had basketball practice tonight and he did great. He is really getting the hang of it, and I am a proud momma.
We worked on cleaning out the refrigerator for dinner. We had a surplus of leftovers and so that they did not go to waste that is what's for dinner.

February Begins

February started out running late. We are all so exhausted that it is becoming the norm for us to be late. This is not something that I like to be known for. I have always been the one who was early and I would like to go back to that.
When we got to school, just three minutes late, we signed in and the boys' headed to class. Today was Mass Day so I stuck around and read for a little while and then headed into Church. I love this day, through the rain and everything it was great to spend time with my boys' and with Jesus.
After Mass I headed to the church office to pick up something for my mom. To St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and to The Diocese of Birmingham, thank you for helping my mom in this time of need. It means so much to all of us.
I came home to work on laundry, registering the boys for school, still putting up Christmas, and just trying to accomplish anything. I was not very successful, but it wasn't because I wasn't trying. Maybe tomorrow will be better. I doubt it though, like today I have too much to do. I need a serious system, if anyone can help with this I would be so appreciative.
We had cub scouts today after school. I decided that we would take the time and start to work on the scout closet. The boys helped a lot and then played Chess and Checkers. It was a good meeting overall. They seemed to have fun, which is what matters most to me.
So the boys still will not clean their rooms. I am so over trying to get them too. I have so much to worry about right now and I just do not know what to do. It will get better. Of course is someone could send me $5000 that would be great. Of course who wouldn't like a good deposit or who doesn't need it. Maybe one day finances will be on the bottom of my worry list. That day is not today though.
Katie Fleming made dinner for my family and it meant so much and tasted great. Thank you so much Katie for everything. You are a great cousin, and even better than that you are a great friend. You amaze me with all that you are able to accomplish and just what a genuinely good person you are. I am so thankful that are children are growing up together. Anyway, thank you. It was delicious and again meant a lot to us all.
Well I am off to bed. I have a feeling that I am going to break and I do not like it at all. Hoping some sleep will do me some good. Good night.