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.

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. 

Practice Game

So today was
We started off by heading to the Botanical Gardens for a photo shoot.  It was  great shoot and the boys were pretty good.  Watch the blog at http://www.monicaannephotography.com/ for more on it.
When we were done there we headed to St. Francis to try to deliver the photo books.  Mrs. Day was there so she was able to get hers but Miss Ghossein had left for the summer.  I will call her this week and figure out when she will  be in town so that she can get hers.  Next year I am going with a new company I cannot believe how many issues I had getting these books here.  I am also going to start working on them in August when school starts!
Then we headed to KMart.  We needed to get two large rubbermaid boxes for all of our camping stuff.  We have so much that we got from my dad and having somewhere to permanantly store it will make camping much easier.  Right now it is stored in about three places.
We got home and got to work.  I got all of the larger pictures packed up.  There is litterally one picture left on the wall upstairs.  It is exciting and sad.  I also got most of the linens packed up, leaving out a little to get us by.  I also got comforters and pillows packed.  John Michael's room is being taken over by boxes. 
Danny had a practice game tonight against the 7 year old All Star team.  The boys won, which is good since they are the 8 year old team.  They were also on fire.  Hopefully we will keep it up since we have a game against Springville tomorrow night.
Well, we are home and I am heading to bed.  I hope that everyone has a great night.  I am so ready for tomorrow.  Hoping to increase the productivity and ready to go by the new house!!!

Art Show

The boys had a great day at school.  I was so glad too! 
John Michael had practice tonight, but he could not go because we had the home and school meeting at the school.  This is the last one of the year, which I cannot believe.  This one is the Art Show.
There are several great things about the Art Show.  One is there is wine!  I am an avid fan of wine so this is a nice treat!  The second thing is that the kids pick their own work that they want to show.  Danny did an amazing picture of the crosses on the Mountain.  John Michael did a self portrait.  I was so proud of them both. 
They were excited about the magician that they had there for the kids!  It was great and all I heard about until the snoring started! 

Gorgeous Saturday

Today was an absolutely gorgeous day, I do not know if I could have hand picked a better one....well, maybe adding 5 - 10 degrees, but seriously it was gorgeous.

We went to the Botanical Gardens and I had a photo shoot with a beautiful family. Stay tuned to the blog on http://www.monicaannephotography.com/ for more details about this shoot.

After the family portraits were complete I took John Michael around and did a few 6 year old pictures. He was not really feeling it though. I also got some of the boys together. I love it when they will pretend to get along even if for a few seconds for a picture.

After a morning of photography we came home and started to work on the van. We had to clean it inside and out. While there is still a lot of work to do, the seats and all that need to be cleaned, but today was a start. Just another thing that we want to get done, that can stay done before we move.

The more organized and in control we are the better. I am super excited about our progress and know that we can keep it up.

We went to Mass tonight, and then to the spaghetti dinner. Mass was great as always. John Michael seemed to forget how to act, but he got it together before Mass was over. The spaghetti dinner was great, all of the work that has been put into it definitely shown. The boys ate with us then headed to child care, where they got to play in one of the Game Trucks, watch movies, and play in the gym. They had so much fun, in fact John Michael cried when we left. I tried to win a couple of things in the silent auction, but lost them both by just a few dollars Danny was pretty sad that I did not win, but I tried. I will try a different approach next year and we will see what happens.

Well, I am off to bed. We spring forward tonight, which means more hours of daylight tomorrow, which I am SO excited about. I am not SO excited about losing an hour of sleep especially when tomorrow is so busy. It will be another great one though!

Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers tonight and every night.

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.

Stressing Slightly

So today started off great with Mass with the boys. I will say it every Wednesday but it is the one day a week that I am always looking forward to. It just allows me to unwind and get closer to Christ, which is something I work on daily. The fact that I am able to share the time with my boys means so much.
I am slightly stressd about the registration that I am about to have to pay for as well as tuition that is quickly coming due, but I know that it will all work itself out. Being in a school like St. Francis is truly a blessing, and I know that somehow everything will work out.
This year in organizing my life, I am also determined to get out of debt and make life at least on the monatary front a little easier. It will be nice. I would like to save a little for a mini-vacation but we will just have to see if it is possible. Our vacation this year might be at the lake.
Well, just needed to vent and destress a little.

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.

Hot Dog Social

So today we started out early again, about 6:45 I woke the boys up and had them get going. I need them on a better routine and this seems to be working so we are going to stick to it!

I had to meet with Crystal from Crystal's Creations to pick up a wreath that she made for me for my cousin's baby shower. I also figure that it can be hung on the hospital door and on he wall close to the baby's crib. I hope that Amanda likes it as much as I do. If I had a girl, I would have a hard time giving this one away! I am definitely going to use her for a lot of things that I am working on, she is truly amazing! If you have not seen her work, please go check her out on FaceBook!

I also got the last few things that we needed for the shower. I love what I found too. I hope that Amanda does. It is lime green and hot pink and those are the colors she was aiming for! Girl, wait till Sunday, it is going to be great.

The hot dog social, which is sort of like the kick off to the school year was tonight. I cannot believe it, which seemed to be the consensus of everyone there. Seriously? School? Already? It was a lot of fun, the boosterthon DJ's were there and the boys, especially John Michael were having a ball. Danny is not much of a dancer, he got those shoes from Brandon but John Michael is like me, if there is music you dance! They also got to see their friends and teachers and other people from the school. It was really a lot of fun and it is something that I am glad the Home and School board does each year.

Danny went home with Chandler. This is his first spend the night away night and momma is a little nervous. I think he will do fine though. He is a good boy and was so excited. I am excited for him too. Chandler is his best friend and he has been wanting to spend the night for a while, so I am glad it all finally worked out. I promised him we would have Chandler over soon, but we have something every weekend this month! We will do it soon though, no doubt!

I also signed John Michael up for soccer. Danny wants to do fall ball, so needless to say we will be running all fall, but it is good and I am excited.

Brandon and I watched our wedding video tonight. It is the first time we have watched it in years. I laughed a lot, there were some funny things and to only be 10 years old it is dated, it is amazing how much has changed in 10 years. I also cried a lot because I got to see my daddy and hear his voice.

Well, I am off too bed. Tomorrow is going to be a long one, wedding tomorrow night, pray it all goes well! I am excited, but I always get a little nervous before weddings! You are all in my thoughts and prayers tonight as I go to bed!

Second Grade Mass

Today was Groundhog's Day. From what I understand the groundhogs are not in agreeance this year. None the less 6 more weeks of winter seems pretty imminent. The sun in Birmingham actually appeared just long enough for Birmingham Bill to see his shadow.

Catholic School's Week school Mass was done by the second graders. They did an amazing job. I was so proud of all of them. Whether singing, reading, carrying gifts, or speaking afterwards to the school. I was glad that I was able to be there and see them all. Catholic Schools week is always so special, and this year has been no exception. Mr. Wight spoke to the children after Mass and it was great to see them all together. I appreciate all that he has done for the school.

Danny had to finish up his book report tonight. He is very excited about his Diary of a Wimpy Kid hat. He did a great job, and I am so proud of him and how much he enjoys reading.

John Michael got to play hookie today. I wanted him to be at Mass with us for Danny and by the time that we were done at the school it was 10:30. He and I had a great time today though.

Well, it is definitely after nine, but that is ok. I am headed to snuggle with my boys! They want momma and that is rare. Before I go to bed I will be remembering all of you in my prayers. Time is precious and there are so many special moments that we miss if we do not slow down!

Home and School

Tonight was the 3rd Home and School meeting at Saint Francis Xavier. It was a really great meeting. Fr. Bob and Fr. Bill were the guests of honor and they shared some of their personal memories from their school days at St. Francis. It was entertaining, educational, and something that I am glad I did not miss. Danny's class closed with a song, and it was so sweet and they did so good! Mrs. Hayes, Danny's teacher, is amazing and when she gets them together for something they truly are able to rock the house!

I was so grateful for the snow being removed from the forecast for tonight. While tonight is not over the chances are gone (at least I think).

Well, I am off to bed, again not before 9. Trying again tomorrow night! I will be praying for all of my friends and family. You all mean so much to me and I am so grateful for all of you! I miss some of you so much and would love to see you more. Please pray for my photography journey as I am working on several new projects and am really excited about the possibilities.