Thankful for Monday?!

Yes, today I am thankful for Monday.  The weekend was so crazy that at least with Monday comes a routine.  It is also only a two day week so this Monday will not be bad at all. 

Up On The House Top

Today was another full day of shoots.  I am very thankful for the work though. 
After work I came home and it was time for the yearly roof top photograph of the boys.  This year though they only went on the porch roof, the house roof is a little higher, and a lot steeper than the old house.

Both the boys did great until it was time to come down.  Danny was so scared, it broke my heart completely.  He just did not want to turn around.  I told him that is the reason I do not go up, I do not like getting off and back on the ladder.  It is plain scary in my opinion.  I hate to see my boy scared though.  He did it though and I was super proud, and spent a lot of time loving on him and assuring him it was all normal. 

Brandon has done an amazing job on the decorations.  He has been working his butt off from sun up to sun down, well close to it anyway.  We have been on a cup hook buying spree.  In fact we bought two Wal-Marts out of the brown ones in the size we need.  These make it a pain the first time, but the lights from here on out will be a breeze.  I cannot wait to see it completely done.  I know that it will be beautiful. 

Working More

I am finishing out the weekend before Thanksgiving on a high note.  I have shoots non stop, which I am definitely thankful for.  I need as many jobs as I can get before Christmas, it is probably what we will be buying Christmas with. 
The boys were going to go to the Auburn game today, but with John Michael being so sick yesterday chancing a two hour drive was just something that they were not up for.  Had any of them been sick it would have been miserable. 
After I was done working I came home and got Samantha and the boys and we headed to Gardendale.  I needed to get some fabric for a project that I am going to attempt for our garland.  While we were there the boys had a blast, they found things they added to their Christmas list.  They found arts and crafts that they wanted to do, they found fun hats to run around in.  Samantha and I had a good time too. 

Today I am thankful for being able to spend time doing things that make my boys smile.

Another Sick Day

This morning started off strange.  I woke up about 2:00 and ran to check on the boys.  They were fine so I went back to bed.  I got up a little later and got ready for the day.  I was raring to go when John Michael came running in sick.  He was super sick. 

Brandon took Danny on to school and I stayed home with little man.  He broke my heart litterally laying around all day, he finally held down a watersicle about 2:00.  I had to leave for work, but Brandon was here with him. 

Danny had his first basketball practice so it was a long day at school.  We got home about 8:30.  It will be our standard time for Monday and Friday nights, but we love this time of the year so it is all good. 

Today I am thankful that my baby is feeling better and that a little stomach bug is all we have had to deal with  when so many people have so many bigger threats on their plates. 

2nd Quarter Progress

So today marks the halfway point for the second quarter.  It is also the halfway point for November.  Wow! Yep that about sums it up for me. 
John Michael did great on his progress report.  He is really enjoying school and he is definitely learning a lot.  I am so proud of the progress that he has made and I know that he will keep it up.  Now, if only I could get him to learn how to tie his shoes.
Danny did amazing too!  He is such a smart cookie, with an amazing desire to learn.  Everyday he is really soaking it in and making more strides towards greatness.

Both of the boys are like sponges.  Today I am thankful for all that they have been able to teach me and that I know I will continue to learn from them.

Pick It Up

Today we had to get the Cub Scout's popcorn from Golden Flake.
I could not get it and one of our other leader's offered to.  I am so thankful to have so many great parent's involved in Scouting who are willing to help and be a part of all that has to be done. 

A Little Magic

Today was a long one. 
I dropped the boys off at school and then had to get some things from Brandon so that I could get some things shipped out.  He printed some labels for me since my printer is on the fritz, like it always is.
I had to meet someone from Ashley's list to get her a book that she got from me.  It is a pretty cool firetruck and work truck book.  I love Ashley's List, and really appreciate all of the work that they put into it to keep it running smoothly.  I have a lot to get on it so hopefully I can find some time.  Of course I cannot find the time to do much of anything that I need to do.  Maybe soon.
The boys had a great day at school. 
After School Care was great but there were a lot of kids almost 60, which is a lot.  Everything went smoothly.
The 2nd Home and School Meeting was tonight, which meant Child care until 7:30, which ended up being closer to 8:00.  It was SFX Spirit night at Chick-fil-A.  The great thing was the workers had dinner purchased for them.  Debbie and I gave ours to two of the children whose parents did not order anything for them.  It broke our hearts. 
Brandon went to the meeting so that I could work, it was a math lesson so he was not very happy that he was there, but I think he enjoyed it too.  They do math differently now than they did when I was learning, and so it was nice to have a little better understanding.
We had a magician come to entertain the kids durng the meeting, that was definitely a good thing.  Most of them were exhausted and so giving them something to focus on was a plus for everyone!

We headed home, and were glad to be here.  It was a great day and I am so thankful for my children to be at a school that has such a poitive relationship with the parents and the children.

Happy Veteran's Day

So while was closed and out of school the boys still had school.  It was rather frustrating.  We did not get to go to the parade or anything else.  Instead they had school and then ASC followed.  Only about half of the school was there though, seems that everyone felt we should have been off.  I have to say if I did not have to work anyway I would have probably let the boys play hookie too just so we could have gone to the parade. 
To all of the Veteran's out there, Thank You!  Your dedication and your bravery are the reason athat I can write this blog, that I can vote for the President and then complain when the worng one wins the election.  You are the reason we decide where we goto chhurch and while we all sit and enjoy our homes you are the ones we should thank for them.  Not just today, but everyday.  Thank you and thank your families for the sacrafices that they make. 

Homestead Hollow

So the boys have been asking and we finally went to Homestead Hollow.  We just went in with Brandon this morning and helped getting set up.  John Michael and I went on a rn for more tickets for the food so I guess there was a reason we went on and went.  It was nice to feel helpful.
When we got back we walked around and the boys pretty quickly spent the money taht they had.  John Michael got a plane and Danny got targets for his bow and arrows.  They both made candles and got tons of yummy goodies.  They seemed to have a blast and were pretty bummed when we had to leave.
When Brandon came home he surprised me with a strap for my camera.  It is prefect and exactly what I wanted.  I love it!  Who knows maybe I will make some myself and change them out for the seasons.

Working with the boys

So today I had a full dy of sessions and since Brandon is working at Home Stead Hollow and my mom is out of town it means the boys are coming with me.  I love it when they get to though, we always have a good time and since it is Saturday and we will be on Morris Avenue it means a trip to the Peanut Depot, which always makes it worth it to the boys! 
Uncle Kenny met me there and picked up Danny.  He was surprised to learn that he was going to the Auburn game.  He was super excited.  He loves going.  Thank you so much Uncle Kenny for taking him and making these vry special memories.  Auburn was playing Georgia and unfortunately they lost, bad.  Danny had a good time though.  This was his first all SEC game so it was special.
After my sessions John Michael and I went to lunch and we went to the Dollar Tree, it was his treat for being such a big help while I worked.
Danny got home about midnight and was exhausted.  He had a great time though.
It has been a great Saturday.

Veteran's Day Program

Today was a very special day at St. Francis Xavier school. 
First, they were able to wear jeans and their spirit shirts, which is always a plus for the boys. 
Second and most importantly today was the Veteran's Day Program.  It was a great program as it always is. 
Each grade sang a song, they did such an amazing job and I am definitely one proud momma!

The school does so many special things, but seeing them thank and respect the Veteran's past, present, and future is truly amazing.

The Veteran's always get up and say a few words and this is always so special. 

Brandon could not go because Homestead Hollow started today and he is working.  Teresa and Dale are doing the BBQ now and so he is pulling his weight.  I wish I could have helped, the extra money would have been nice, but missing the program is just not an option for me.

ASC was great, full of little blessings.  So many of these kids have stolen a little piece of my heart.  They are truly amazing. 

Operation Shoe Box

The girl scouts were collecting gifts to send for Operation Shoe Box.  This is a great program and the boys were excited about taking a shoe box for a child in another country.  They chose to do one for a girl and one for a boy.  They even sent a note with our address in hopes to get a pen pal out of it.  Who knows. 

As a reward for bringing a shoe box they could wear wacky shoes.  They are normally only allowed to wear black, navy, white or grey athletic shoes.  Today they could wear anything but heels and flip flops.  Fortunatly the heels were not an issue in our house.  Danny did not want to wear wacky shoes, he said it did not feel right.  I think that it is because his crocs are almost too small and really other than dress shoes that left his baseball kleats.  John Michael wore his cowboy boots and had a blast showing them off. 

Will It Pass

So it seems that this cold is here to stay.  With phnemonia running rampid and my chest in knots it is going to be a long winter.  The thing is the weather goes up and down and therefore my body is at a loss for what to do.  So I end up sick.  This is my busiest time of the year, sick is not what I need.

Election Day

So today started out all nasty, cold and gloomy.  I guess that was a sign for what was to come.
I dropped the boys off at school and headed to the National Gaurd Armory to cast my vote for President.  With the electoral college I am not really sure why I was so worried about getting it done, but I was.  I vote so I can complain, and with the results coming in complaining is going to happen.
We got home and Belinda and Randy were here.  I love them, they have been a part of our lives for as long as I can remember, but they made the biggest impact when my dad was so sick.  They were there and it is a 2 hour drive for them, and they made it a lot, once just to bring him some homemade peach ice cream.  They are amazing.  Unfortunately they were here because there was a death in their family.  I am glad that they came and did not have to drive all the way back, but I wish it would have been under better circumstances.
We all watched the election results roll in and they went from close to horrible fast.  I cannot believe that the people in this country voted  Obama back in.  What has he done?  I swear it is proof that people are looking to live in a country that takes care of them.  We should be taking care of our country.  The man killed Americans in Benghazi and yet he was reelected.  Speaks poorly of Americans in my opinion.

Sick

This morning I woke John Michael up and he was doing everything he could not to go to school this morning.  I laughed it off and went to get Danny who immediately took off to the bathroom and got sick.  Needless to say John Michael got his way.  No school today!  We stayed home and spent a lot of time in bed and on the couch. 
Fortunately John Michael never actually got sick.  In fact he got up at 2:11 and did a dance because it was too late for me to take him to school.  He is a trip.
Needless to say tomorrow we will be headed back to reality.  Hoping that everyone stays well and that it was a fluke.  This going through the house is so not what is needed right now.

Thank You For.....My Career

Today was another full day of shooting at Morris Avenue. I am starting to feel a deep connection to that location.  I truly love it for so many reasons, but I would love to have time to scope out new locations.  Maybe I will be able to do that in January, when it typically slows down some. 
I am so thankful that I am able to do what I love.  It means so much and it makes each day new, exciting and a blessing.  The fact that I am working my fingers off does not bother me at all because it is something that I love and I truly think that makes a huge difference.
Since I was three years old I wanted to be a photographer, and I am so thankful that it has happened.  I feel very fortunate and very blessed.

Working it Out

So today was a full day of photo shoots on Morris Avenue.  It was a beautiful day for it.  I was even able to grab a couple of shots for me personally and the alphabet that I am always working on expanding.  Can you tell what letter it is?

Today  John Michael's last soccer game and missing it broke my heart, but he understands.  Momma has a job to do and she cannot let her clients down.  I just hope with all that I have in me that I did not let him down.  I never want to let my boys down in any way.

Brandon spent the day retrieving the Christmas decorations.  This was the only day that he could do it.  Danny stayed and helped him out.

Mom picked John Michael up and took him to a birthday party.  It was at Skate Station in Trussville and it has been a long time since my mom went to a skating party.  She was pooped, but it meant so much to me that she took him.  I know that it meant a lot to John Michael too and to Gracie.  Happy Birthday Gracie! 

When we all got home it was time to unload and find somewhere to put all of the decorations.  While we were not 100% successful we also know that in a few weeks it will be time to get it all out and turn our home into a Chirstmas wonderland!  I cannot wait. 

It is Over

The popcorn orders were due to the council today. I am always glad when this part of the scouting year is over.  I know that we are going to have to do some more fund raising for the pack but it is nice to know that we are headed in  the right direction.  So many people just do not seem to care about getting it done and in reality we need to get it done.  We need to make the pack some money so that we can do more things, but the parents just do not seem to care that much.
I am so thanful that today is Friday, while I still had to work it was nice just knowing that the weekend is ahead of us.  It is going to be another super crazy one but that is life and it is what I have come to expect. 
TGIF, I live by it!

All Saints Day

We all have a favorite Saint, or Saints.  I know that I have several I ask to pray for me almost everyday.  I think it is great to have as many Saints in Heaven on our side as we can get. 
Today is All Saints Day and it is one of my favorite school Masses of the year.  After Mass each grade gets up and gives a presentation on the Saint that they have chosen to be their class Saint.  It is awesome and just another one of those things that reminds me that my boys are exactly where I want them and more importantly where God wants them. 
I have to admit though it is hard to believe that it is November, this year has gone by way to quickly and it is not showing any signs of slowing down.  I am just holding on and enjoying the ride that is life!

Happy Halloween

So today was a super busy day at the school for the boys.  Even though it is Wednesday there was no Mass, Mass will be tomorrow.  Today there was excitement as everyone was getting ready for parties and trick or treating. I decided that there was no point in going home so I took my computer and edited in the van between parties and work.
The day started with John Michael's report card conference.  He did super great and I am so proud of him.  He is really growing up, which makes momma happy and sad all at the same time.

John Michael's party started the day at 10:15.  It was super fun, they went into the lunchroom and had a special snack.  A cookie cake and some pretzels.  They will be sent home with some massive goody bags, but Mrs. Cannova is going to hold them until time to go home.  I cannot say that I blame her at all. 

Danny's party was at 1:30.  They had Chicken Nuggets, and all sorts of treats.  There were chocolate dipped pretzel sticks, pretzel spiders, cupcakes, chips, and two goody bags, one from the parents and one from Miss Donaldson.  Needless to say they had a great time, and so did the parents.  I am always thankful that I can be there for my boys during the school year.  It is a blessing that I do not take for granted.

Work was business as usual.  Except for Debbie and I made the kids special Halloween snacks.  It was a fun day at ASC for the teachers and the kiddos.

We came home and got ready so taht the boys could go trick or treating.  Well so that we all could.  Amy, Terry, Sasha and Connor came over to walk the neighborhood with us. To say that they got a lot of candy is an understatement.  There were a lot of houses with lights out, and I am guessing that they were at church, especially since Halloween fell on Wednesday.  Some of the neighbors were amazing, there was a house decked out as a pirate ship with Pirates of the Carribean playing on the garage.  There was a "Thriller" house, it was all great.  Another thing I am thankful for is a great neighborhood!

We came home and hung out and of course inspected the candy.  Then it was time for bed for everyone.  I hope that everyone had a very happy and safe Halloween. 

All Hallow's Eve...Eve

Twas the night before Halloween and all through the house the house every creature was excited....probably even the mouse.  The children were nestled all snug in their bed but the visions were of vampires, ghost and the undead.
Halloween is simply fun and it is a holiday that I enjoy and so do my boys.  We just have a good time and the night before they are always pumped up.   There are so many exciting things happening tomorrow, we all better rest!

Pumpkin Time

Today was a great day as far as Mondays go anyway.  I am pretty sick, which I am sure is from spending hours outside in the horrible temperatures.  Oh well.
ASC was pretty easy, I just let the kids know I did not feel good and was in no mood.  They must like me at least a little because they seemed to be on their best behavior.
Brandon stopped on his way home to get pumpkins for the boys to carve.  They were so excited when we got home.  I think they thought we forgot.  I was worried that we would not be able to get them, but Brandon came through as always.  He is pretty amazing to say the least.

The boys insisted on carving their own and they did great.  John Michael drew his own design, a puppy dog.  Danny did the headless horsemen.  They were both so great and I was so proud. 

I pretty much went to bed as soon as the pumpkins were done in hopes that tomorrow I will feel better than today!

No Days to Rest

Today I was back to back on Morris Avenue again.  I am so gla that I love my job, because it is very exhausting.  Especially when there is so much going on each day as everyone prepares for Christmas and wants pictures. 

A Full Day

This morning John Michael and I headed out for his soccer game.  Danny and Brandon were coming behind us.  I was going to have to leave early to get to work.  I have a full day of photo shoots. 

The thing about today is it is FREEZING! It only got colder as the day progressed.  The day went on and for the most part all of the clients were great.  They were definitely troopers as it was not easy being out there.  Watch for my photography blog to be updated soon.  I have had some amazing sessions lately and today there were even more. 

Brandon had to take John Michael to a birthday party for me.  He is not use to being the running around dad, but he did an amazing job!  The best part is Makenzie had a great party.  John Michael was just glad to be able to wear his costume...FINALLY!

We all got home about the same time and it was time to get us all costumed up as we were headed to Amanda's Halloween party.  We had a really great time and are already looking forward to next year. 

International Rosary

This was a great day and it is one of my favorite days of the school year.  Last year the students started to do an International Rosary.  It is absolutely gorgeous and one of my favote things taht they do as a school, if not my favorite thing.  Each class says the Hail Mary in a different language.  It is gorgeous.

John Michael's class along with second grade did the first decade of the Rosary and they did it in Spanish.  It was beautiful.  Danny's class along with the third grade said the second decade of the Rosart and they did it in Gernam, which is so pretty.  Everytime Danny says the Hail Mary in Germany i get the chills, i love it.  i am so proud of my boys and how much they have grown in their faith.  They are strong in Faith.

This Rosary is yet another reminder of why we chose St. Francis.  My children having a strong base education as well as a strong faith base to their foundation is so important to me.  I love that they are able to get this at St. Francis. 

It was also Spirit Day which meant they got to wear their Spirit shirts and their blue jeans, which is always a nice treat  for the boys, and for momma!  Washing those uniforms gets old quick!

Visiting Author

Today was an exciting day for the boys.  An author came to the school and she was amazing.  The boys had a blast and even got a book signed by her.

Danny's Report Card

This morning we had to be at the school at 7:30.  It was my turn for a teahcer's conference with Miss Donaldson so that we could get Danny's report card.  We made it to the school with a few minutes to spare.  It was a good thing too.  Today is also Mass day, and picture day and as we were getting out of the van I saw that John Michael did not have on a belt, so to the office we went to borrow one.  Thank you Mrs. Battles for always being prepared for those of us who just are glad to make it out of the house with pants on.
Danny did amazing on his report card.  So proud of him. He had all A's and B's and the 2 B's were high.  In fact in public school he would have had straight A's.  Super proud of him.  He seemed to be pretty proud of himself too. 
I headed to John Michael's class after I was done in Danny's to help out with hair and ties for picture day.  I wish that they had there pictures in regular clothes, it would make the yearbook more personalized in my opinion.  They all look alike when they are in uniform.  The first grade class did amazing though.  Such big girls and boys.
Mass as always was great and just what I needed in the middle of this insane week.
Today was the last day of the 1:00 dismissals for the week.  Again, I am looking forward to the paycheck, but I will be glad to have a regular time frame returning.  I have so much to do and there is just not enough time in the day as it is.  It will get done though!

Out at One

Today was a really great day.  The only downside is that school is out at 1:00 so it is a long day at after school care.  I am looking forward to the extra on my paycheck though.  The thing is that is a long time at after school care and the kids get super bored, super fast! 

The Book Fair Begins

So the week of the book fair at school is my boys' favorite week of the school year, for me it is just hard.  I have to try to have some money for them and I have to say no too much and that bothers me more than anything.  I love giving my boys the things that they want and need and lately it is hard to provide the things that they need making the things that they want almost impossible.  I am doing my best though.